5-Day Crete Road Trip from Heraklion traveling west to Chania

Your road trip adventure in Crete begins as soon as you reach Heraklion and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Heraklion is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Heraklion. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Greece. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Peskesi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Avlogyros? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Koukouvagia as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heraklion.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Indigo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Polytechneio Cafe, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Garden provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Heraklion. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chania, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Drop by the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This popular archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,611 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 104,717 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Morosini Fountain. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 22,185 visitors, this fountain deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This eastern orthodox church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,760 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Rocca A Mare Fortress. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,703 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Knossos Palace. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 45,087 travelers, this museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Heraklion.

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 Chania. Chania 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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Chania. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at To Maridaki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cabana Mare Beach Club offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Thalassa Beach Resort is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vazaki stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Emprime is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Chania has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Chania by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the region.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery. This place of worship is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Chania, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,428 visitors.

Old Chania Market is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,309 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Old Venetian Port Of Chania. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 32,792 reviews.

Lighthouse Of Chania is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,133 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Chania has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Chania offers and add your favorites to your Crete travel package below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Αρισμαρί, Από Την Κρητική Γη, 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 Apokoronas, 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 Salis, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Αερικό - Aeriko Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Barbarossa, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.

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

Kick off the day at Gramvousa, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This island is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,283 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Balos Lagoon. Balos Lagoon is a beach with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,862 reviews.

Set your GPS to Heraklion and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heraklion beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Venetian Fortezza Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 15,507 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Rimondi Fountain. Rimondi Fountain is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,018 reviews.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Xalavro Open Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Athali Cretan Cuisine. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Swing Thing after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stone Project for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tita Briki is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Say good night to Heraklion and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Crete!

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.

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!