4-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Crete on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, and Chania. This road trip itinerary in Crete seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Crete takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Heraklion and 1 night in Rethymno. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Crete. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Heraklion, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Crete on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Crete. Knossos Palace and Old Venetian Port Of Chania are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Heraklion Archaeological Museum, learn more about the unique Morosini Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Venetian Fortezza Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, and Chania, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Crete. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Crete.
Throughout your road trip in Crete, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Crete.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Crete fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Crete today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Heraklion - Arrival day
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- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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Welcome to Heraklion, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Greece! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Heraklion's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Heraklion is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Heraklion Archaeological Museum, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Heraklion. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Heraklion, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Peskesi, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koukouvagia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Xalavro Open Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Indigo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Polytechneio Cafe provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Garden offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Crete!
Day 2
- Heraklion
- Rethymno
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Knossos Palace
- Venetian Fortezza Castle
- Rimondi Venetian Fountain
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rethymno, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Heraklion. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a marina, a castle, an archeological site, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Heraklion Venetian Port. This is an intriguing marina you should not miss. Another must-see is Rocca A Mare Fortress, an underrated castle in Heraklion.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Knossos Palace. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Venetian Fortezza Castle, another of the city’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Rimondi Fountain, a noteworthy place of interest in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rethymno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Rethymno. If you're in the mood for something new, try Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Lemonokipos Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rethymno.
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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!
Day 3
- Rethymno
- Heraklion
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Eleftherios Venizelos' House
- Lighthouse of Chania
- Firka Venetian Fortress
- Old Venetian Port of Chania
- Greek National Football Team Museum
- Old Chania Market
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Chania, 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 Heraklion. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the up-and-coming Eleftherios Venizelos House, a standout museum in Rethymno. Next, go to Lighthouse Of Chania.
After visiting Eleftherios Venizelos House and Lighthouse Of Chania, take time to explore Rethymno's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka. This culturally significant castle offers a unique experience. Old Venetian Port Of Chania is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Greek National Football Team Museum, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Rethymno.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heraklion. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Swing Thing, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Stone Project is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tita Briki is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Heraklion and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Crete!
Day 4
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Morosini Fountain
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Day 4 of your road trip in Crete is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Heraklion before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Morosini Fountain, a photogenic monument before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Crete and go on a shopping spree in Heraklion’s shopping center, the lively 1866 Street Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Crete.
Before you conclude your road trip in Crete, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Heraklion.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Merastri, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Heraklion. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Crete!
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