4-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos and surrounding area
Description
Included
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, Agios Nikolaos, Piskopiano, and Gournes.
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 Agios Nikolaos. 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 Heraklion Archaeological Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Morosini Fountain, learn more about the unique Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Spinalonga Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Agios Nikolaos, Piskopiano, and Gournes, 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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- Morosini Fountain
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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 Morosini Fountain, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Peskesi, 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 Koukouvagia, 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 Xalavro Open Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at Indigo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Polytechneio Cafe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Garden, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Crete!
Day 2
- Heraklion
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 47 min
- Church of Agios Minas
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Knossos Palace
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Heraklion and Kallithea, 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 1 night.
Start by visiting Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Heraklion Archaeological Museum, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned museum renowned for its historic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Heraklion by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Rocca A Mare Fortress. This breathtaking castle is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Knossos Palace also adds charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Agios Nikolaos. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Agios Nikolaos's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ofou to lo, a popular restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Agios Nikolaos at Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), 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 Zygos Urban Garden. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Agios Nikolaos tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Yanni's Rock Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Palazzo Cafe Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Du Lac Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Crete.
Day 3
- Agios Nikolaos
- Heraklion
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Drive 89 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Spinalonga fortress
- Plaka Beach
- Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
- CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
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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 Plaka, Piskopiano, and Gournes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Agios Nikolaos includes a castle, a beach, and an aquarium. Spinalonga Fortress is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Plaka Beach, a locally appreciated beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, a romantic aquarium, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Agios Nikolaos. If you’re looking for more, Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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.
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.
Dine in style at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Athali Cretan Cuisine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Home. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.
Keep the evening going at Swing Thing, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Stone Project, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tita Briki, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!
Day 4
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
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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 Heraklion Venetian Port. This intriguing marina 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.
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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