Relaxed 10-Day Crete Road Trip Starting from Heraklion to Sitia

Your relaxed road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Heraklion, where you'll stay for 7 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Heraklion and begin your adventure in Crete.

Take the opportunity to see Heraklion Venetian Port. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,173 visitors.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Heraklion. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Peskesi, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Avlogyros, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koukouvagia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Heraklion.

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

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Greece. Enjoy your first taste of Heraklion as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Crete means 24 hours of making the best memories in Heraklion. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Heraklion. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Heraklion!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,273 visitors.

Next, make your way to Venetian Loggia. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 866 reviews.

While in Heraklion, we also recommend a visit to Escaperooms. Gr. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 455 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Morosini Fountain. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 22,185 travelers, this fountain is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Heraklion.

Make your way to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, perhaps the most famous eastern orthodox church in Heraklion. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,760 reviews.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Crete more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Heraklion offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Xalavro Open Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Heraklion and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your lively evening at Swing Thing, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stone Project is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tita Briki ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Heraklion can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Crete!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Heraklion, and Nea Alikarnassos destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 5 nights left in Heraklion. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fountain Karavola. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Heraklion, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 825 visitors.

Natural History Museum Of Crete is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,866 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Historical Museum Of Crete. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,531 reviews.

Rocca A Mare Fortress is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,703 reviews.

Nea Alikarnassos’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heraklion behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Nea Alikarnassos welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Heraklion Lighthouse one of your first sightseeing stops in Nea Alikarnassos. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 739 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Heraklion and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Route 66 Rock Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Crete!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.

When you're ready to see some sights, Fortifications Of Heraklion is a great place to start. This city walls is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,181 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,719 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Statue Of Eleftherios Venizelos, Irakleio. The portrait statue has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 488 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This archaeological museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,611 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 104,717 people visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum every year.

Knossos Palace is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this museum, rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 45,087 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Heraklion, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Crete.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Petoúsēs, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vourvourladikon offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Apiri greek_eatery. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Heraklion as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Crete with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Gournes, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Gournes will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of Crete.

When you’ve had your share of Heraklion, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gournes. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. This aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Gournes, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,905 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Limenas Chersonisou. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,807 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Limenas Chersonisou and set your GPS to Epano Kera. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 27 min. Upon reaching Epano Kera, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,842 reviews.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kuzina Casual Food, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ta Kalitera, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa Donato. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Crete.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Crete. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Crete tomorrow with new energy.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Crete and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Malia and beyond. With 2 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

After soaking in Heraklion’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Malia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Malia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Safari Club Crete. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 651 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stalida. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Make Παραλία Σταλίδος your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 400 reviews.

After soaking in Stalida’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Anopolis. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 24 min. When you arrive in Anopolis, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Watercity Waterpark Crete. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,653 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Heraklion offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to book a table at Hacienda. , a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Μεζεδοπωλείο "Η Αυλη", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Λίγο Κρασί Λίγο Θάλασσα. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Heraklion tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Crete.

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Limenas Chersonisou, and Krasion destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Heraklion. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heraklion, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Limenas Chersonisou may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Limenas Chersonisou, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Acqua Plus one of your first sightseeing stops in Limenas Chersonisou. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,668 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Limenas Chersonisou, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Krasion may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Krasion, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Monumental Platanos. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 580 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Μνημειακός Πλάτανος. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,771 reviews.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Heraklion, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Veranda, 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 Veneto, 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 Ntoré Gastronomy, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Crete gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Neapoli. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Sitia, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Neapoli and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Neapoli beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Amazonas Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,063 reviews.

After soaking in Neapoli’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Plaka. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in Plaka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Plaka Beach your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,148 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Spinalonga. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,981 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this island every year.

Spinalonga Fortress is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,699 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Crete at Sitia. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Sitia has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

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

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Sitia.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rakadika, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Exo Lounge Cafe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Nouvelle Boutique, another top-rated place in the area.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Day 9 of your self-drive tour in Crete is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Crete.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sitia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Agios Nikolaos. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see The Abduction Of Europe. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 814 visitors.

Cretan Olive Oil Farm is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,001 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Agios Nikolaos, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Milatos. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Milatos Cave. This cave is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,355 visitors.

In the city of Heraklion, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Crete.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Hari’s Creperiê Heraklion, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Érganos, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Ηριδανός cafe-bar-bistro. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Heraklion tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Crete is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Heraklion.

On your last day in Crete, take time to indulge in shopping at Heraklion’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Heraklion is the remarkable Kornarou Square. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 490 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Heraklion or just grab something light to keep you going.

Dine in style at Eiffel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Granary Espresso Bar & Eatery boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Heraklion and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Crete is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.