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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Kallithea and Heraklion.

Knossos Palace is must-visit archeological site and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Rocca A Mare Fortress, an often recommended castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Heraklion Venetian Port, a visually striking marina, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Heraklion. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the intriguing Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. If you’re looking for more, Natural History Museum Of Crete is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Fortifications Of Heraklion, a place of breathtaking interest in the village.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Athali Cretan Cuisine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Home. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Swing Thing, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Stone Project offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heraklion. Tita Briki is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Rethymno. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rethymno, where you'll spend 2 nights.

No visit to Heraklion is complete without Arkadi Monastery. This locally appreciated monastery is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Venetian Fortezza Castle, 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 Rimondi Fountain. This beloved monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Neratze Mosque, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Guora Gate is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Agrimia Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Lemonokipos Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rethymno.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Antika Irish Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Monitor Art Café also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Rethymno and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Crete.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Rethymno, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Asomatos and Spili.

Holy Monastery Of Piso Preveli makes a great addition to your morning plans. This up-and-coming monastery is a breathtaking place to see in Rethymno. Continue your discovery at Preveli Beach, an eye-catching beach with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rethymno, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kourtaliotiko Gorge. This locally appreciated canyon offers a romantic encounter with Rethymno. Next, make your way to Big Waterfall to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit The Lion Fountain, a worthwhile sightseeing destination that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rethymno.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rethymno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Noble, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try PAGLIACCIO? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Queens Room Club Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rethymno.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bonobo Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Store 311 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Chania. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Chania, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Make time for Lighthouse Of Chania, an up-and-coming lighthouse that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sabbionara Bastion, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Greek National Football Team Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rethymno at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Old Chania Market.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at To Maridaki, a top-rated dining spot in Chania. If you're in the mood for something new, try Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Apokoronas. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Chania.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Crete.

Day 6 of your road trip across Crete promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Chania. You have 2 nights left in Chania. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Akti Kountourioti, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

No visit to Chania is complete without Etz Hayyim Synagogue. This worthwhile synagogue is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, another must-visit attraction.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Chania's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Salis, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Well of the Turk is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Crete includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Neapoli and Agios Nikolaos. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Agios Nikolaos, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Amazonas Park is an essential stop in Chania. This up-and-coming zoo provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Cretan Olive Oil Farm, a picturesque farm, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Fisherman’s Crypt, a worthwhile museum.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ofou to lo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT) is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zygos Urban Garden. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Agios Nikolaos tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Yanni's Rock Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Palazzo Cafe Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Du Lac Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Agios Nikolaos, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Krasion is brimming with adventures.

Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is an ideal stop early in the day. This locally appreciated monastery is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Windmills Of Seli Ambelou, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Agios Nikolaos 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 Greek Mythology Thematic Park, an intriguing amusement park in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cave Of Zeus and Cave Of Diktaion Andron.

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

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

Dine in style at Ammoudi Club, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Piato boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out To Potiraki. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Puerto Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Aquarius Cafe Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Crete!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Sitia. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heraklion, where will spend 1 night.

Archaeological Museum Of Sitia is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Sitia Beach, a curiosity-inducing beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Richtis Gorge, a stunning hiking area, also available for your discovery today.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Merastri offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Petoúsēs is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heraklion.

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 to another unforgettable day in Crete!