4-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno

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Photo of aerial view of lake almyros in Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Crete as you embark on an unforgettable 4-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, and Chania.

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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Ενετικό Λιμάνι ΗρακλείουΕνετικό Φρούριο Rocca a MareKnossos PalaceVenetian Fortezza CastleRimondi Venetian Fountain
Eleftherios Venizelos' HouseLighthouse of ChaniaFirka Venetian FortressOld Venetian Port of ChaniaGreek National Football Team MuseumOld Chania Market
Morosini Fountain

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
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  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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Say hello to Heraklion! Your exciting road trip through Greece is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Heraklion for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Heraklion. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Greece. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 lovely dining experience at Peskesi, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Koukouvagia, 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 Xalavro Open Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Indigo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Polytechneio Cafe, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Garden provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Crete!

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Day 2

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
  • More

On day 2 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 Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 1 night.

Heraklion is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a marina, a castle, an archeological site, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Heraklion Venetian Port and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rocca A Mare Fortress, a picture-perfect castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Knossos Palace, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Venetian Fortezza Castle. When you're finished at the castle, Rimondi Fountain awaits your visit. This monument is a symbolic highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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

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.

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

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Day 3

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
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Chania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heraklion, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rethymno today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Eleftherios Venizelos House. This instagrammable museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lighthouse Of Chania and learn what makes this romantic lighthouse unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka. After exploring the castle, head to Old Venetian Port Of Chania. This well-known marina is a highlight in Rethymno. As your day continues, stop by Greek National Football Team Museum, known for its photogenic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the notable Old Chania Market. Enjoy exploring this incredible market at your own pace.

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 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 wonderful meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated dining spot in Heraklion. If you're in the mood for something new, try Athali Cretan Cuisine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Home. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heraklion.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Swing Thing. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Stone Project, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tita Briki provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

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.

On your last day in Crete, take time to indulge in shopping at Heraklion’s popular marketplace, Talos Plaza. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Crete, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Heraklion.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Merastri? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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