Rethymno: strengthening sustainable mobility through charging stations for electric bicycles

The Municipality of Rethymno is taking another substantial step towards sustainable mobility, placing emphasis on the installation and operation of charging stations for electric bicycles. This initiative enhances services for cyclists both in daily urban mobility and within the context of tourism activity. The infrastructure responds to a growing demand, as the use of electric bicycles continues to increase steadily in urban and tourism environments.

The charging stations have been installed at selected, functional locations within the urban fabric, allowing users to charge their bicycles safely and conveniently during their journeys or while staying in the city. A modern network of 15 smart parking and charging points is now available in Rethymno, effectively extending the practical range of electric bicycle use and making it a reliable transport option, particularly for visitors who wish to move around without a car. The charging and parking points are provided free of charge to both residents and visitors through the use of an application. Further information is available here.

The Municipality of Rethymno has been certified as a “Bike Friendly Destination” since 2021 and, from that time to the present, has been systematically investing in the improvement and upgrading of cycling infrastructure. The development of charging stations forms part of this long-term strategy, which views cycling not as a supplementary activity but as an integral component of urban mobility and the tourism experience.

Within the same framework, the installation of a shared electric bicycle system took place in the summer of 2025, confirming a clear continuity in the planning of micro-mobility infrastructure. The focus on micro-mobility infrastructure highlights the transition towards an integrated and functional framework that supports the long-term and reliable use of electric mobility solutions and bicycles in the urban environment.

The operation of the charging stations also directly supports tourism within the geographical boundaries of the destination. Visitors gain the ability to explore the city and the wider area with a low environmental footprint, strengthening the local economy without placing additional pressure on traffic infrastructure. At the same time, cycling and electromobility contribute to an improved quality of life for residents by reducing noise and pollutant emissions.

This approach aligns with international trends in sustainability policies and responsible tourism development, where destinations are increasingly expected to invest in practices that combine functionality, environmental protection, and visitor-oriented experiences. Through the systematic development of cycling infrastructure, Rethymno strengthens its position as a destination that places sustainability at the core of its strategic planning.