12-Day Crete road trip Starting from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos

Your road trip adventure in Crete begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Heraklion. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 7 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Heraklion has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Venetian Port of Heraklion. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,727 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

Heraklion also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Heraklion is Swing Thing. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 512 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 12-day vacation in Crete!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Heraklion has to offer. Cherish the 6 nights you have left in Heraklion by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Heraklion. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Heraklion, like the extraordinary Fortifications of Heraklion. This attraction is a city walls and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,118 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Heraklion is the spectacular Church of Agios Minas and Pantanassa. This attraction is an eastern orthodox church and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,606 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This archaeological museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,621 visitors. Up to 104,717 people visit this popular attraction every year.

Knossos Palace is another stop you might want to add to your itinerary. This must-see tourist destination is a popular destination among visitors in Heraklion. Rated at an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 42,799 visitors, it’s one many travelers find worthy a visit.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, then consider Karteros Canyon. Karteros Canyon is a must-see tourist destination and popular attraction in Heraklion. More than 165 visitors have rated this place an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Your discovery of Heraklion does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Heraklion on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Crete, be sure to eat at Apiri greek_eatery, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Heraklion. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,190 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, Xalavro Open Bar is one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,916 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Heraklion!

Day 3 of your road trip across Crete is another day in the magnificent Heraklion. You now have 5 nights left in Heraklion. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Heraklion offers plenty for you to see and do, and your hotel will be conveniently located near several of the area's best attractions.

One of the best travel destinations you can travel to in the city of Heraklion is the stunning Church of Agios Titos. This has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,172 visitors.

You could also spend some time visiting the spectacular Venetian Loggia in the city of Heraklion. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 830 visitors.

Another attraction you could visit in the city of Heraklion is the incredible EscapeRooms. Gr. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest and has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 445 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the fantastic Morosini Fountain. This fountain and travel destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,456 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the outstanding Escape House. This top-tier point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 556 visitors.

Today you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a popular tour. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of options for top-rated tours and activities in Heraklion you could sign up for on this day of your vacation. Choose among the best tours before or after booking.

When it’s time to eat, the city of Heraklion has restaurants and bars to fit all budgets.

Toast to another amazing day in the city of Heraklion!

Day 4 of your road trip across Crete is another day in the magnificent Heraklion. You now have 4 nights left in Heraklion. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Heraklion offers plenty for you to see and do, and your hotel will be conveniently located near several of the area's best attractions.

One of the best travel destinations you can travel to in the city of Heraklion is the stunning Heraklion Lighthouse. This has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 720 visitors.

You could also spend some time visiting the spectacular Rocca a Mare Fortress in the city of Heraklion. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,392 visitors.

Another attraction you could visit in the city of Heraklion is the incredible Historical Museum of Crete. This attraction is a museum and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,448 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the fantastic Natural History Museum of Crete. This natural history museum and travel destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,734 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the outstanding Fountain Karavola. This must-see tourist destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 814 visitors.

Today you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a popular tour. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of options for top-rated tours and activities in Heraklion you could sign up for on this day of your vacation. Choose among the best tours before or after booking.

When it’s time to eat, the city of Heraklion has restaurants and bars to fit all budgets.

We recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Heraklion, The Home. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 555 customers.

Toast to another amazing day in the city of Heraklion!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. You still have 3 nights left in Heraklion.

Today you'll explore the city of Malia. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Skotino cave. This incredible attraction is a cave and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 916 visitors.

Aposelemi Beach is another popular attraction you'll visit in the city of Malia. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 461 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Crete to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Heraklion.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion, Veranda. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,111 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like News Cafe. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 941 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Crete!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. You still have 2 nights left in Heraklion.

Today you'll explore the city of Malia. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This incredible attraction is a place of worship and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,727 visitors.

Platanus Tree is another popular attraction you'll visit in the city of Malia. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,059 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Crete to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Heraklion.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Heraklion, like Érganos. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,634 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion, PLASTELINA. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 913 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Indigo. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 809 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Crete!

As you rise to greet the dawn on day 7 of your epic road trip in Crete, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Malia. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Agios Nikolaos. You’ll stay in Agios Nikolaos for 4 nights. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Malia’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Malia, start your day with a visit to the amazing DiscoveringCrete.com. This much-appreciated must-see tourist destination and attraction is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 109 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Asterion Quads. This best-rated sightseeing destination and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 20 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Malia has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Agios Nikolaos. Agios Nikolaos offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Piato. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 974 reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Agios Nikolaos, the fantastic Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT). This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,112 customers.

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Crete!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Agios Nikolaos, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. You still have 3 nights left in Agios Nikolaos.

Today you'll explore the city of Malia. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Windmills of Seli Ambelou. This incredible attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 247 visitors.

Safari Club Crete is another popular attraction you'll visit in the city of Malia. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 586 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Crete to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Agios Nikolaos.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Agios Nikolaos, like Archontiko. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 616 customers.

Ofou to lo is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Agios Nikolaos. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 514 customers.

Locals enjoy Karnagio / Pita tou Riga, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Agios Nikolaos. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,653 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Agios Nikolaos, Ammoudi Club. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 634 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Crete!

On day 9 of your road trip across Crete, you’ll have the perfect day exploring the wonderful city of Agios Nikolaos. You’ll stay in Agios Nikolaos for 2 nights, meaning you have plenty of time to discover the best things to see and do in the area.

We recommend you stay at the Meliti Hotel, one of the best 4-star hotels in the city of Agios Nikolaos. This hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,684 guests.

The best luxury hotel option in the city of Agios Nikolaos is the 5-star Minos Palace hotel & suites. The hotel is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 946 guests.

One of the best hotels we recommend in the city of Agios Nikolaos is the 3-star Kitro Beach Hotel. This 3-star hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,420 guests.

Our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best alternatives if these hotels are not available.

You'll have easy access to popular travel destinations in the city of Agios Nikolaos, like the outstanding Church of Panagia Kera. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 909 visitors.

Windmills Poros Elounda is another popular attraction you could visit in the city of Agios Nikolaos. This incredible attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 523 visitors.

One of the best attractions you could visit in the city of Agios Nikolaos is the extraordinary Plaka Beach. This must-see tourist destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,924 reviews.

As the day moves along, one attraction you’ll probably want to visit is the incredible Spinalonga fortress. Around 11,173 visitors have given this top-tier point of interest an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Today you'll also have the opportunity to spend some time at the fantastic Spinalonga. Spinalonga is a popular island, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,880 travelers.

Come to Agios Nikolaos prepared by adding some tours and tickets to your vacation package. Book a popular and budget-friendly activity you can do on this day in Agios Nikolaos.

After a day of exploring, try one of the best restaurants in the city of Agios Nikolaos.

We recommend you eat at a delicious restaurant that locals enjoy, like Paradosiako, after your day of exploring the city of Agios Nikolaos. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,327 customers.

Locals recommend Rob's Corner, one of the best bars in the city of Agios Nikolaos, for a refreshing evening drink to finish your day. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 182 customers.

It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy another amazing evening in Crete.

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Agios Nikolaos has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Agios Nikolaos by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Agios Nikolaos. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Agios Nikolaos, like the extraordinary Milatos cave. This attraction is a cave and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,286 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Agios Nikolaos is the spectacular Kremasta Monastery. This attraction is a place of worship and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 396 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing Areti Monastery. This place of worship has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 207 visitors.

This is a popular destination among visitors in Agios Nikolaos.

Your discovery of Agios Nikolaos does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Agios Nikolaos on this day of your trip.

When you’ve finished your meal, Bajamar - Cocktail Bar is one of the best bars in the city of Agios Nikolaos for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 469 customers.

Piazza Cafe Bar is another of the most popular bars in the city of Agios Nikolaos. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 377 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Agios Nikolaos!

Day 11 of your road trip through Crete gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Agios Nikolaos and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Heraklion. You will stay in Heraklion for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Agios Nikolaos is the amazing Treppe mit Malerei Delphine. This attraction is a must-see tourist destination that is rated an average of 3.3 out of 5 stars by 4 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible museum, Fisherman’s Crypt. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 156 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Agios Nikolaos is the outstanding The Abduction of Europe. This popular must-see tourist destination and travel destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 visitors.

The spectacular Almiros is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating park and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 552 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This attraction is a popular museum that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,877 visitors.

You can make the most of your new day in Agios Nikolaos by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Crete. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Heraklion, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After dinner, visit DISH BAR PARTY RESTAURANT, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 926 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Crete!

Day 12 of your road trip in Crete is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Heraklion before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Nikos Kazantzakis Grave is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Heraklion. This must-see tourist destination and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,670 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Heraklion and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Crete.

You’ll then say farewell to Heraklion. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Crete!