14-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.

Whatever your travel style is, Rocca A Mare Fortress is an essential stop in Heraklion. This curiosity-inducing castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a beloved church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Natural History Museum Of Crete. Not far away from the museum, you will find the historic Nikos Kazantzakis Grave, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Fortifications Of Heraklion, another gem in Heraklion with breathtaking features to discover.

After soaking in Heraklion’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kallithea. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Kallithea, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Knossos Palace, an interesting archeological site that everyone visiting Kallithea should see.

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

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

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Swing Thing, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stone Project is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tita Briki also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Set your GPS to Rethymno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rethymno beckons with new experiences!

Venetian Fortezza Castle is a captivating castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rimondi Fountain, a standout monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Neratze Mosque, a heritage-rich mosque. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Iroon Politechniou Square, an instagrammable and truly unique public square. End your sightseeing at Rethymnon Municipal Garden, an often recommended park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Antika Irish Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rethymno. Monitor Art Café is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Crete includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Chania. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chania, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Chania’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rethymno behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. Chania welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Etz Hayyim Synagogue and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, another highlight in Chania. When you’re done exploring the marina, continue to Presentation Of The Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church, a culturally significant church.

Nearby, you will also find Kastélli. This underrated archeological site is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Greek National Football Team Museum, a standout museum that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

Chania 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 Chania.

Enjoy a delicious meal at To Maridaki, a top-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vazaki, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Emprime likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Chania, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Falasarna and Tsoyroyniana.

Set your GPS to Falasarna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Falasarna beckons with new experiences!

Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2 is a curiosity-inducing beach we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Tsoyroyniana’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Falasarna behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Tsoyroyniana welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Topolia Gorge is an underrated canyon we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Cave Of Agia Sofia, a history-steeped cave that’s well-regarded in the area.

Spend your afternoon discovering Elafonisi, a worthwhile beach known for its romantic features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Salis, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Well of the Turk. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Chania tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Barbarossa is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Chania and look forward to another great day 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 1 night left in Chania. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, a culturally significant castle in Chania. Next, go to Lighthouse Of Chania.

After visiting Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka and Lighthouse Of Chania, have a stroll along Chania's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Sabbionara Bastion. This awe-inspiring monument offers a unique experience. Eleftherios Venizelos House is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

Chania 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 Chania.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Nama Restobar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Agios Nikolaos. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Agios Nikolaos, where will spend 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: Agios Nikolaos. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 53 min. When you arrive in Agios Nikolaos, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Agios Nikolaos is Cretan Olive Oil Farm, a curiosity-inducing farm that draws attention for its idyllic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Archaeological Museum Of Agios Nikolaos, a photogenic museum that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to The Abduction Of Europe, an often recommended sightseeing destination that offers a unique experience.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ofou to lo, an iconic dining spot in Agios Nikolaos. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), a popular restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zygos Urban Garden, a hidden gem nestled in Agios Nikolaos. 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, Yanni's Rock Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Palazzo Cafe Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe Du Lac Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Agios Nikolaos, 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 Krasion and Psichron.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Krasion. This car ride takes around 49 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, an often recommended monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Psichron may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Psichron, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cave Of Diktaion Andron, an often recommended cave in Psichron. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Cave Of Zeus. This locally appreciated cave is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cafe Puerto Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Aquarius Cafe Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Dive into day 10 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Pachia Ammos, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Agios Nikolaos to Pachia Ammos may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pachia Ammos, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Archaeological Site Of Gournia, an intriguing archeological site known for its instagrammable features.

Set your GPS to Ierapetra and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ierapetra beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Venetian Fort Kales and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Archaeological Collection Of Ierapetra, another highlight in Ierapetra.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Stsi Koumbares, a highly-rated dining destination in Ierapetra. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bakalogatos, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mama's Soul Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ierapetra this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Saxo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Island Cafe Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 11 of your road trip in Crete, you’ll start and end your day in Ierapetra, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Ierapetra, there’s no need to rush. Experience Schisma Eloundas and Kritsa to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

After soaking in Ierapetra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schisma Eloundas. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Schisma Eloundas, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Dianiskari Beach and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Windmills Poros Elounda, another highlight in Schisma Eloundas.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kritsa. This car ride takes around 24 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Church Of Panagia Kera. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kafeneio-Ovelistirio "Toy Koytoyzoy to Koytoyki" (Ἐleutherios Pan. Koytoyzos), a highly-rated dining destination in Ierapetra. If you're eager to try something different, consider VOiÈME Cafe Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Spésial. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ierapetra this evening.

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

On day 13 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Vori. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mátala and set your GPS to Vori. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Vori, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Minoan Palace Of Phaistos, an often recommended archeological site in Vori. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Museum Of Cretan Ethnology. This curiosity-inducing museum is a top recommendation in the area.

Our first attraction recommendation in Vori is Monastery Panagia Kaliviani, an up-and-coming monastery that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Merastri beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Petoúsēs. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Route 66 Rock Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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