5-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos and surrounding area

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Description

Explore the best of Crete on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, Gournes, Agios Nikolaos, Neapoli, and Milatos. This road trip itinerary in Crete seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Crete takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, Gournes, Agios Nikolaos, Neapoli, and Milatos, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a MareHeraklion Archaeological MuseumChurch of Agios Minas
Quad Safari PeninsulaELA Quad SafariAquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue CentreCRETAquarium ThalassokosmosHeraklion Archaeological Museum
Spinalonga fortressSpinalongaPlaka BeachAMAZONAS PARKMilatos cave
Morosini FountainHeraklion Archaeological Museum

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
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  • Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
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Welcome to Heraklion, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Greece! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Heraklion's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Venetian Port or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Heraklion. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heraklion. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Indigo, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Polytechneio Cafe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Garden, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Crete!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Heraklion
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • Church of Agios Minas
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Heraklion has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Heraklion by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heraklion allows for both. Start by heading to Rocca A Mare Fortress. This frequently visited castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Heraklion Archaeological Museum, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a curiosity-inducing church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Crete is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Swing Thing, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stone Project is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tita Briki provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Heraklion
  • Agia Pelagia
  • Piskopiano
  • District of Chersonissos
  • Agios Nikolaos
  • More

Drive 137 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Quad Safari Peninsula
  • ELA Quad Safari
  • Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
  • CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • More

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 Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, and Gournes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Agios Nikolaos, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Agia Pelagia, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Heraklion to Agia Pelagia may take around 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Agia Pelagia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Quad Safari Peninsula, a curiosity-inducing safari park that everyone visiting Agia Pelagia should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Ela Quad Safari. This peaceful safari park is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Piskopiano. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, a frequently visited aquarium that everyone visiting Piskopiano should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Gournes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Piskopiano behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Gournes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, an interesting aquarium known for its instagrammable features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Agios Nikolaos, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ofou to lo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT) is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zygos Urban Garden. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Agios Nikolaos tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yanni's Rock Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Palazzo Cafe Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe Du Lac Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Agios Nikolaos
  • Neapoli
  • Milatos
  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 98 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Spinalonga fortress
  • Spinalonga
  • Plaka Beach
  • AMAZONAS PARK
  • Milatos cave
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Plaka, Neapoli, and Milatos, 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plaka. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Spinalonga Fortress. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Spinalonga. This underrated archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the hamlet. Not far away, you’ll also find Plaka Beach. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the beach.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plaka and set your GPS to Neapoli. 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 27 min. Upon reaching Neapoli, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Amazonas Park is a curiosity-inducing zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Neapoli’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Milatos. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Milatos, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Milatos Cave, a worthwhile cave that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Heraklion. Heraklion offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heraklion. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Merastri offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Petoúsēs is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heraklion.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Route 66 Rock Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.

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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heraklion - Departure day
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  • Morosini Fountain
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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Day 5 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.

Maximize your last day in Crete and go on a shopping spree in Heraklion’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Crete.

Today's adventure in Heraklion promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Morosini Fountain. This photogenic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vourvourladikon, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Apiri greek_eatery offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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