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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rethymno, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing Heraklion Venetian Port, a romantic marina in Heraklion. Next, go to Rocca A Mare Fortress.

When you’ve had your share of Heraklion, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kallithea. Your travel time is around 18 min.

Savor the day by heading to Knossos Palace, a captivating archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rethymno. This car ride takes around 1 hour 24 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rethymno is Venetian Fortezza Castle, a locally renowned castle that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rimondi Fountain, a photogenic monument that stands out in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rethymno. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rethymno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Crete includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Chania. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chania, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rethymno and set your GPS to Chania. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. Upon reaching Chania, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Eleftherios Venizelos House. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Lighthouse Of Chania. This intriguing lighthouse is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Kastélli. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site. Next, take your journey to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a locally renowned marina.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Chania. Chania offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Chania is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Chania.

Make sure to reserve a table at To Maridaki, an iconic dining spot in Chania. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, a popular restaurant in Chania. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Apokoronas, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vazaki, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Emprime also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Chania and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Crete.

On day 4 of your road trip in Crete, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Chania and Meleses are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.

Old Chania Market is an ideal stop early in the day. This well-known market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Greek National Football Team Museum, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Meleses. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Domaine Paterianakis- Ktima Paterianaki, an up-and-coming winery known for its romantic features.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Swing Thing, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stone Project is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tita Briki ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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