10-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno, Chania, and Agios Nikolaos

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Heraklion, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Heraklion on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Knossos Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking archeological site before continuing your journey. Rocca A Mare Fortress is your next stop. This worthwhile castle is one of the best-rated sights in Heraklion.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Heraklion Venetian Port. This visually striking marina is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus and Morosini Fountain. If time allows, end your day with Natural History Museum Of Crete, a photogenic museum that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Heraklion and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Heraklion, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to reserve a table at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, an iconic dining spot in Heraklion. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Athali Cretan Cuisine, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Home, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Swing Thing, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stone Project, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tita Briki provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rethymno. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rethymno, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heraklion. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Arkadi Monastery is the perfect place to start. This monastery is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Heraklion. Next, head to Venetian Fortezza Castle, a locally renowned castle, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Rimondi Fountain. This noteworthy monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Rethymnon Municipal Garden and Guora Gate. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rethymno, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rethymno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Agrimia Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Rethymno. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, a popular restaurant in Rethymno. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Lemonokipos Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Rethymno. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Antika Irish Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rethymno. Monitor Art Café is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rethymno, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Asomatos and Spili. You still have 1 night left in Rethymno.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rethymno allows for both. Start by heading to Holy Monastery Of Piso Preveli. This intriguing monastery provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Preveli Beach, a serene beach, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a worthwhile canyon. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Big Waterfall.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rethymno.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rethymno. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Noble, a highly-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're eager to try something different, consider PAGLIACCIO, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Queens Room Club Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bonobo Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Store 311 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Crete!

On day 5 of your road trip in Crete, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Chania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chania, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rethymno, including an archeological site, a marina, a church, a museum, a market and much more! Start your day with a visit to Kastélli. This increasingly popular archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rethymno on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Presentation Of The Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church, an intriguing church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Greek National Football Team Museum and Old Chania Market.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chania. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Chania. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at To Maridaki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Apokoronas is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vazaki, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Emprime likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Crete.

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Chania has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Chania by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your day with a visit to Ethnikos Drumos Samarias. This beloved national park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lighthouse Of Chania, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Chania on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Sabbionara Bastion, an increasingly popular monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Eleftherios Venizelos House and Tampakaria.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Crete is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Chania's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Plaka, a top-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KAIKI. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Nama Restobar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Crete.

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Psichron. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Agios Nikolaos, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Greek Mythology Thematic Park, an intriguing amusement park in the village. Then, head to Cave Of Zeus and soak in the ambiance of this picturesque cave.

There are many interesting places to see in Agios Nikolaos, and when you are ready for more, go to Cave Of Diktaion Andron. This is one of the village’s most frequently visited enchanting spots of interest.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heraklion, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Merastri is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Petoúsēs. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Route 66 Rock Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!