Relaxed 11-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Sitia

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.

Today’s itinerary in Heraklion covers several incredible sights, including a church, a historical landmark, a monument, an escape room, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. This underrated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Venetian Loggia, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Morosini Fountain. This popular monument offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Heraklion Archaeological Museum. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Crete makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Crete also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Heraklion. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Swing Thing stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Stone Project offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tita Briki is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip 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 6 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Heraklion. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a museum, a castle, a lighthouse and much more! Begin your adventure at Fountain Karavola. This is a curiosity-inducing monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Natural History Museum Of Crete, an often recommended museum in Heraklion.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Historical Museum Of Crete. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rocca A Mare Fortress, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Heraklion Lighthouse, a romantic place of interest in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Merastri? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Petoúsēs as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heraklion.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Route 66 Rock Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Crete.

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Crete means 24 hours of making the best memories in Venerato. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Venerato. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the village. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Venerato!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heraklion, including a monastery, a monument, a church, a cemetery, an archeological site and much more! Start your day at Monastery Palianis. This breathtaking monastery is an up-and-coming place to see in Heraklion. Then, wander over to Fortifications Of Heraklion. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This respected church is a favorite among visitors.

Heraklion offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Nikos Kazantzakis Grave is an underrated spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the cemetery, don’t forget to check out the historic Knossos Palace. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned archeological site.

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

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 Vourvourladikon, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Apiri greek_eatery offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kuzina Casual Food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.

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

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Heraklion will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Crete.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Safari Club Crete. This beloved safari park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Watercity Waterpark Crete, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Skotino Cave, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Heraklion. This cave is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

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

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

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Gournes, Piskopiano, and Krasion destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 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.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views await you in Heraklion on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating aquarium, Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. Afterward, continue to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, an aquarium every traveler should visit.

As you explore Heraklion’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This locally appreciated monastery is an essential stop.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Heraklion, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

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 8 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Heraklion will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Crete.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the often recommended Plaka Beach, a mesmerizing beach in Heraklion. Next, go to Spinalonga.

After visiting Plaka Beach and Spinalonga, have a stroll along Heraklion's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Spinalonga Fortress. This history-steeped castle offers a unique experience. Windmills Poros Elounda is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Érganos, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider iridanos cafe-bar-bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Eiffel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Heraklion. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Heraklion!