Crete's oldest campground is only 4km east of the old city but feels far removed from Rethymno, on beautiful Missiria beach. Bamboo, palm and tamarisk trees provide plenty of shade. If you don't have your own gear, it rents out tents with bedding (singles/doubles €20/28), as well as caravans and air-conditioned glamping (sleeping four) on the dunes overlooking the beach.
There’s a taverna (open May to November), plus a snack bar, a communal fridge, a safe, laundry facilities and free beach umbrellas and sunloungers. Gas cookers can be rented for €5 per day. An Iraklio-bound bus can drop you nearby.