14-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, and Sitia and surrounding area

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Crete. With 1 night left in Heraklion, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Heraklion on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Knossos Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning archeological site before continuing your journey. Rocca A Mare Fortress is your next stop. This worthwhile castle is one of the best-rated sights in Heraklion.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Heraklion Venetian Port. This stunning marina is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa and Natural History Museum Of Crete. If time allows, end your day with Fortifications Of Heraklion, a breathtaking monument that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heraklion. 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Swing Thing, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stone Project provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tita Briki offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

On day 3 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 Rethymno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Arkadi Monastery. This underrated monastery is a picture-perfect place to see in Heraklion. Continue your discovery at Venetian Fortezza Castle, a romantic castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heraklion, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rimondi Fountain. This beloved monument offers a heritage-rich encounter with Heraklion. Next, make your way to Neratze Mosque to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Rethymnon Municipal Garden, a worthwhile park 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 Heraklion.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Agrimia Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Rethymno. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rethymno at Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, 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 Lemonokipos Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rethymno tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Antika Irish Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Monitor Art Café. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Rethymno and look forward to another great 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 will return to Rethymno for your remaining 1 night in the city 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 Asomatos and Spili.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rethymno, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Holy Monastery Of Piso Preveli, a locally appreciated monastery in the village. Then, head to Preveli Beach and soak in the ambiance of this serene beach.

There are many interesting places to see in Rethymno, and when you are ready for more, go to Kourtaliotiko Gorge. This is one of the village’s most underrated peaceful spots of interest. After exploring the canyon, visit the increasingly popular Big Waterfall. Not far away, you'll also find The Lion Fountain.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Noble, a popular restaurant in Rethymno. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rethymno at PAGLIACCIO, 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 Queens Room Club Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rethymno tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bonobo Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Store 311 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!

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

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Rethymno on today’s itinerary. First up is the up-and-coming archeological site, Kastélli. Afterward, continue to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a marina every traveler should visit.

As you explore Rethymno’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Presentation Of The Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church. This intriguing church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Old Chania Market, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

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.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Chania, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Falasarna and Chania. You still have 2 nights left in Chania.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Chania, including a beach, a museum, and a lighthouse. Start your adventure at Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2. This curiosity-inducing beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Eleftherios Venizelos House located in Chania for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Lighthouse Of Chania. Its romantic features will captivate you.

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

As you explore more of Chania, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Salis, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Well of the Turk. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Chania tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Barbarossa, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails. 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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Psichron 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 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Chania. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Cave Of Diktaion Andron is the perfect place to start. This cave is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Chania. Next, head to Archaeological Museum Of Agios Nikolaos, a locally appreciated museum, known for its photogenic features.

Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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 wonderful meal at Ofou to lo, a top-rated dining spot in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zygos Urban Garden. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Agios Nikolaos.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Yanni's Rock Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Palazzo Cafe Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe Du Lac Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ierapetra. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ierapetra. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Agios Nikolaos, including a castle and a museum. Start your adventure at Venetian Fort Kales. This underrated castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Archaeological Collection Of Ierapetra located in Agios Nikolaos for another exciting encounter.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Stsi Koumbares, an iconic dining spot in Ierapetra. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bakalogatos, a popular restaurant in Ierapetra. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mama's Soul Kitchen, a hidden gem nestled in Ierapetra. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Saxo, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Island Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Ierapetra, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the up-and-coming Archaeological Site Of Gournia, a standout archeological site in Ierapetra. Next, go to Monumental Ancient Olive Tree Azoria.

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

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

Dine in style at Kafeneio-Ovelistirio "Toy Koytoyzoy to Koytoyki" (Ἐleutherios Pan. Koytoyzos), a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, VOiÈME Cafe Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Spésial. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ierapetra.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!