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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Heraklion has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Heraklion by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Heraklion is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a museum, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Rocca A Mare Fortress. Just a short distance away is Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a visually striking museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Crete is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heraklion's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Athali Cretan Cuisine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Home. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Swing Thing, known for its lively atmosphere. Stone Project is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tita Briki offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Crete and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rethymno for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make sure to visit Rethymno Old Town, a popular neighborhood in Rethymno. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rethymno, including a castle, a monument, a historical landmark, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Venetian Fortezza Castle. This captivating castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Rimondi Fountain, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rethymno 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 Guora Gate, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing historical landmark. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Rethymnon Municipal Garden.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Crete is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Noble, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, PAGLIACCIO is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Queens Room Club Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rethymno tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bonobo Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Store 311, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

On day 5 of your road trip in Crete, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Chania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chania, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chania. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Old Venetian Port Of Chania. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the marina before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Presentation Of The Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church. This up-and-coming church is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Greek National Football Team Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, continue your journey to Old Chania Market, a locally renowned market.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Chania. Chania offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Savor the flavors at To Maridaki, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Apokoronas. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Chania tonight.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Chania. You’ll stay in Chania for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Chania is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, a frequently visited castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lighthouse Of Chania, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Eleftherios Venizelos House. This museum is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

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

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Crete is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Plaka, a popular restaurant in Chania. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Chania at TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated KAIKI. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Chania tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Nama Restobar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Peacock Tail 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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Neapoli, Plaka, and Agios Nikolaos, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Agios Nikolaos. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

After soaking in Chania’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Neapoli. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 45 min. When you arrive in Neapoli, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Amazonas Park, an increasingly popular zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Neapoli and set your GPS to Plaka. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 28 min. Upon reaching Plaka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spinalonga is an often recommended archeological site we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Spinalonga Fortress, a visually striking castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Agios Nikolaos’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plaka behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Agios Nikolaos welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to The Abduction Of Europe, a beloved sightseeing destination that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Agios Nikolaos, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ofou to lo, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT) offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zygos Urban Garden is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Yanni's Rock Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Palazzo Cafe Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Du Lac Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Crete!

On day 9 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 town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Kritsa, Agios Nikolaos, Schisma Eloundas, and Plaka. You still have 2 nights left in Agios Nikolaos.

Upon reaching Kritsa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Church Of Panagia Kera and explore the stunning features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Agios Nikolaos, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schisma Eloundas may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Schisma Eloundas, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Windmills Poros Elounda is an often recommended historical landmark we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Dianiskari Beach, an eye-catching beach that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Piazza Cafe Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Karnagio / Pita tou Riga offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Avli. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bajamar - Cocktail Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Agios Nikolaos for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Mesa Lasithi and Psichron.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Mesa Lasithi allows for both.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Agios Nikolaos, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mesa Lasithi may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Mesa Lasithi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Iera Moni Koimiseos Theotokou Krustallenias, a curiosity-inducing monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Mesa Lasithi, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Psichron. Your travel time is around 17 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cave Of Diktaion Andron. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the cave before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Cave Of Zeus. This often recommended cave is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Puerto Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Aquarius Cafe Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sitia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sitia, including a museum and a beach. Start your day at Archaeological Museum Of Sitia. This visually striking museum is an underrated place to see in Sitia. Then, wander over to Sitia Beach. If eye-catching sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heraklion. This car ride takes around 1 hour 59 min.

Begin your journey at Richtis Gorge and explore the romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Heraklion. Heraklion offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Heraklion, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Merastri offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Petoúsēs. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!