Relaxed 12-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Sitia

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Crete, you’ll go deep into Heraklion, where you'll stay for 8 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Heraklion, and meet locals along the way!

Heraklion is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a historical landmark, a monument, an escape room, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. Just a short distance away is Venetian Loggia, a symbolic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Morosini Fountain, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Escaperooms. Gr. Last up on today’s itinerary is a museum. Make your way to Heraklion Archaeological Museum for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Heraklion.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Crete. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Athali Cretan Cuisine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Home is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heraklion.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Swing Thing, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stone Project offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tita Briki provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Heraklion and Kallithea destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 7 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 a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Heraklion. Your adventure starts at Fortifications Of Heraklion, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This beloved church is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Heraklion's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This breathtaking cemetery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Knossos Palace is also worth visiting.

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 reserve a table at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, 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 Merastri, 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 Petoúsēs, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Heraklion. The bars in Heraklion make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Route 66 Rock Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for another 6 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Heraklion. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a lighthouse, a castle, a museum, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Heraklion Lighthouse. This is an increasingly popular lighthouse you should not miss. Another must-see is Rocca A Mare Fortress, a frequently visited castle in Heraklion.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Historical Museum Of Crete. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Natural History Museum Of Crete, another of the town’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Fountain Karavola, a culturally significant place of interest in the town.

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.

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

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

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 5, 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 Heraklion and beyond. With 5 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views in Heraklion. Begin your sightseeing with Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. This well-known aquarium is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, another must-visit attraction that enhances the village’s allure.

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 Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This locally appreciated monastery is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

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.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 8, 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 Heraklion and beyond. With 2 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

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

Next, check out Watercity Waterpark Crete, one of the most intriguing places to see in Heraklion. This water park 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.

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

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Heraklion’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Crete.

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

Day 10 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 Agios Nikolaos. 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heraklion allows for both. Start by heading to Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This worthwhile farm provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cosmina's Beach, a locally appreciated beach.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Sitia in this laid-back road trip in Crete. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at To limani, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Krētikós offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zorba's Tavern is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sitia.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Sitia and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rakadika, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Exo Lounge Cafe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Nouvelle Boutique. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip across Crete promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Kritsa and drive in the direction of the town of Agios Nikolaos for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Heraklion, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sitia, including a church, a beach, a zoo, a cave and much more! Start your day with a visit to Church Of Panagia Kera. This often recommended church is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Almiros, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sitia 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 Amazonas Park, an intriguing zoo in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Milatos Cave.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Heraklion. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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 KOUZEINERI, 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 Central Park, 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 DISH BAR PARTY RESTAURANT, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Heraklion.

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