Relaxed 14-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Crete, you’ll go deep into Heraklion, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Get ready for an exciting day in Heraklion. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Rocca A Mare Fortress. This is an increasingly popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, an intriguing church in Heraklion.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Morosini Fountain. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Natural History Museum Of Crete, an instagrammable place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Fortifications Of Heraklion to your itinerary. This underrated monument offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Heraklion.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Crete by joining a traveler-approved tour in Heraklion. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Heraklion that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Crete more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Heraklion to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Home. 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, 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.

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

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

Day 3 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 city of Rethymno. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Chania, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Today’s agenda in Heraklion includes a monastery, a park, a historical landmark, a mosque, a monument and much more! Arkadi Monastery is must-visit monastery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Rethymnon Municipal Garden, a worthwhile park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Guora Gate, an eye-catching historical landmark, 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 worthwhile Neratze Mosque. If you’re looking for more, Rimondi Fountain is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Chania. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Crete by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Chania.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Chania. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Vazaki after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Emprime also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Chania, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.

A visit to Akti Kountourioti in Chania is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Old Venetian Port Of Chania. This well-known marina is a romantic place to see in Chania. Continue your discovery at Fountain, a photogenic monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Chania, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Old Chania Market. This interesting market offers a respected encounter with Chania. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Chania.

Crete makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Crete also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Chania 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 Salis, an iconic dining spot in Chania. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, a popular restaurant in Chania. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Well of the Turk, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Barbarossa is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Crete. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Crete.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming hamlet of Chania. Your adventure starts at Myli, Rethymno, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Venetian Fortezza Castle. This notable castle is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Chania's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Iroon Politechniou Square. This photogenic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

In the city of Rethymno, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Crete.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Rethymno has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at Agrimia Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Lemonokipos Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rethymno tonight.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Antika Irish Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Monitor Art Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 7, 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 Rethymno and beyond. With 2 nights left in Rethymno, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Wooden Sculptures Museum. This worthwhile museum is a remarkable place to see in Rethymno. Continue your discovery at Moyseio Xulogluptikis Axoy, a noteworthy museum 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 Sfendoni Cave In Zoniana. This increasingly popular cave offers a scenic encounter with Rethymno. 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.

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 Rethymno.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Noble, a top-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider PAGLIACCIO, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Queens Room Club Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

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

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Axos can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Crete!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Rethymno, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Rethymno will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Crete.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Rethymno, including a beach, a canyon, and a waterfall. Start your adventure at Preveli Palm Forest. This locally appreciated beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Preveli Beach located in Rethymno for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the canyon, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Big Waterfall. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this waterfall.

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

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.

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

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 Rethymno. The bars in Rethymno make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 12, 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 Agios Nikolaos and beyond. With 1 night left in Agios Nikolaos, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Agios Nikolaos today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Monumental Ancient Olive Tree Azoria. This history-steeped monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Archaeological Site Of Gournia and learn what makes this stunning archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Church Of Panagia Kera.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Agios Nikolaos has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Arodo Cafe Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Paradosiako is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pelagos. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Agios Nikolaos tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Crete.

Day 13 of your relaxed road trip across Crete promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Psichron and drive in the direction of the village of Krasion for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Heraklion, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Agios Nikolaos today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Cave Of Zeus. This stunning cave will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cave Of Diktaion Andron and learn what makes this enchanting cave unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery.

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 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.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Route 66 Rock Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!