4-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno
Description
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Description
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!
Itinerary summary
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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.
Find your way to your hotel in Heraklion. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Greece. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rethymno. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
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 curiosity-inducing 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 culturally significant castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Knossos Palace, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rethymno's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lemonokipos Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rethymno tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Antika Irish Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Monitor Art Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.
Immerse yourself in Rethymno’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eleftherios Venizelos House. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the grand features of Lighthouse Of Chania, a must-visit lighthouse in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, an increasingly popular castle. For a change of scene, check out Old Venetian Port Of Chania, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Greek National Football Team Museum. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Old Chania Market, yet another notable attraction 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Athali Cretan Cuisine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Home as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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, begin at Morosini Fountain. This notable monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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 for something new, try Merastri, another premier location with a delectable 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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