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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, where you have 1 night left to stay.

No visit to Heraklion is complete without Knossos Palace. This notable archeological site is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Rocca A Mare Fortress, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Heraklion, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Heraklion Venetian Port. This often recommended marina is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Morosini Fountain is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Natural History Museum Of Crete and uncover why it's recognized as one of the village's most up-and-coming attractions.

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

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

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.

Keep the evening going at Swing Thing, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Stone Project, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tita Briki, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Rethymno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Rethymno, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Let Venetian Fortezza Castle set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this respected castle before continuing your journey. Rimondi Fountain is your next stop. This locally appreciated monument 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 Neratze Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rethymnon Municipal Garden and Guora Gate.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Rethymno. Rethymno offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Rethymno is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Rethymno.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Agrimia Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lemonokipos Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rethymno.

Continue your lively evening at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Antika Irish Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Monitor Art Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Chania. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chania, where will spend 3 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Kastélli and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a history-steeped marina that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Presentation Of The Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Trimartiri, Chania's Cathedral Church. When you're finished at the church, Greek National Football Team Museum awaits your visit. This museum is an instagrammable highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a market - the locally renowned Old Chania Market.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Chania, 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 Chania's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at To Maridaki, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Apokoronas. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Chania tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vazaki, known for its lively atmosphere. Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Emprime offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Say good night to Chania and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Crete!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Chania. You’ll stay in Chania for 1 night.

Let Eleftherios Venizelos House set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this visually striking museum before continuing your journey. Tampakaria is your next stop. This often recommended point of interest is one of the best-rated sights in Chania.

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 Lighthouse Of Chania. This romantic lighthouse is a sight to behold.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Crete. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Plaka, a top-rated dining spot in Chania. If you're in the mood for something new, try TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at KAIKI. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Chania.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Nama Restobar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Peacock Tail Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Crete includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Agios Nikolaos. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Agios Nikolaos, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Cretan Olive Oil Farm brings Chania's character to life. This instagrammable farm is a highlight of any visit in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Agios Nikolaos. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Savor the flavors at Ofou to lo, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT) beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zygos Urban Garden. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Agios Nikolaos tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Pachia Ammos and Ierapetra. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Ierapetra, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Archaeological Site Of Gournia is an essential stop in Agios Nikolaos. This worthwhile archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Monumental Ancient Olive Tree Azoria, a culturally significant monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Archaeological Collection Of Ierapetra, a locally appreciated museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Ierapetra. Ierapetra offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ierapetra's best restaurants.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Saxo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Island Cafe Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

On day 11 of your road trip in Crete, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Krasion and Psichron are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Monumental Platanos has to offer. This is a curiosity-inducing monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Mnimeiakos Platanos, an underrated monument in Ierapetra.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Cave Of Zeus, another of the village’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Cave Of Diktaion Andron, a peaceful place of interest in the village.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top-rated dining spot in Heraklion. If you're in the mood for something new, try Merastri, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Petoúsēs. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heraklion.

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

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