5-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno and Chania

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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Heraklion, including a marina, a castle, an archeological site, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Heraklion Venetian Port. This underrated marina is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Rocca A Mare Fortress, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Heraklion on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Knossos Palace, a locally renowned archeological site in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Venetian Fortezza Castle and Rimondi Fountain.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rethymno. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Antika Irish Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Monitor Art Café also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Crete!

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 Chania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chania, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Rethymno covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a lighthouse, an archeological site, a marina and much more! Start your adventure at Eleftherios Venizelos House. This intriguing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Lighthouse Of Chania, a must-see lighthouse in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Kastélli. This intriguing archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, where you can take in romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chania. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Chania's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at To Maridaki, a top-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Keep the evening going at Vazaki, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Emprime, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Chania and Meleses. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Chania on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Old Chania Market is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic market before continuing your journey. Greek National Football Team Museum is your next stop. This underrated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Chania.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Domaine Paterianakis- Ktima Paterianaki. This visually striking winery is a sight to behold.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heraklion's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!