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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Crete as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Heraklion, Kallithea, Gournes, Piskopiano, Krasion, Agios Nikolaos, and Neapoli.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Crete takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 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, Gournes, Piskopiano, Krasion, Agios Nikolaos, and Neapoli, 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 MareChurch of Agios TitosMorosini FountainHeraklion Archaeological MuseumKnossos Palace
Fortifications of HeraklionChurch of Agios MinasHistorical Museum of CreteNatural History Museum of Crete
CRETAquarium ThalassokosmosAquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue CentreMonumental PlatanosPlatanus Tree
Abduction of EuropeSpinalonga fortressSpinalongaPlaka BeachAMAZONAS PARK
Grave Monument of Kazantzakis

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
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  • Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
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Your road trip adventure in Crete begins as soon as you reach Heraklion and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 3 nights 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. 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 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.

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

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 6-day road trip in Crete!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Heraklion
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
  • Church of Agios Titos
  • Morosini Fountain
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • Knossos Palace
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Today’s itinerary in Heraklion covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a church, a monument, a museum, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at Rocca A Mare Fortress. This often recommended castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, a must-see church 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 Morosini Fountain. This interesting monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Heraklion Archaeological Museum, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Knossos Palace. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heraklion.

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 Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Home. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Heraklion
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Drive 5 km, 46 min

  • Fortifications of Heraklion
  • Church of Agios Minas
  • Historical Museum of Crete
  • Natural History Museum of Crete
  • More

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Heraklion for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s itinerary in Heraklion covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a church, and a museum. Start your adventure at Fortifications Of Heraklion. This locally appreciated monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a must-see church 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 Historical Museum Of Crete. This locally appreciated museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Natural History Museum Of Crete, where you can take in picture-perfect features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you explore more of Heraklion, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Merastri boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Petoúsēs. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.

Continue your lively evening at Route 66 Rock Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Heraklion
  • Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 90 km, 1 hour 46 min

  • CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
  • Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
  • Monumental Platanos
  • Platanus Tree
  • More

On day 4 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 Gournes, Piskopiano, and Krasion. In the evening, you’ll end up in Agios Nikolaos, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heraklion, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and natural wonders. Start at Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, a popular aquarium in the village. Then, head to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching aquarium.

There are many interesting places to see in Heraklion, and when you are ready for more, go to Monumental Platanos. This is one of the village’s most underrated peaceful spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the frequently visited Mnimeiakos Platanos.

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

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 delicious meal at Ofou to lo, a highly-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zygos Urban Garden. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Yanni's Rock Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Palazzo Cafe Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe Du Lac Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Agios Nikolaos
  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 87 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Abduction of Europe
  • Spinalonga fortress
  • Spinalonga
  • Plaka Beach
  • AMAZONAS PARK
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, and Neapoli. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heraklion. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your day at The Abduction Of Europe. Then, wander over to Spinalonga Fortress. If respected sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Spinalonga. This enchanting archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Agios Nikolaos offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Plaka Beach is an intriguing spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the beach, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Amazonas Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this frequently visited zoo.

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

As you explore more of Heraklion, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Vourvourladikon, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Apiri greek_eatery, 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 Kuzina Casual Food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Heraklion - Departure day
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  • Grave Monument of Kazantzakis
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Day 6 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, we recommend visiting Nikos Kazantzakis Grave, a respected cemetery before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Crete by visiting Heraklion’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing 1866 Street Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Crete.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ta Kalitera, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Casa Donato? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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