6-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion traveling west to Rethymno and Chania

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Heraklion. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night.

Start your day at Rocca A Mare Fortress. This breathtaking castle is a locally appreciated place to see in Heraklion. Then, wander over to Heraklion Venetian Port. If visually striking sites excite you, this marina will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Historical Museum Of Crete. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Heraklion offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Natural History Museum Of Crete is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the respected Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated church. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Heraklion's top attractions with a visit to Fortifications Of Heraklion.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Crete. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Bring home unique finds from Heraklion's bustling shopping hub, 1866 Street Market. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, 1866 Street Market offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, 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 Athali Cretan Cuisine, 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 The Home. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.

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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Crete, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rethymno are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Heraklion and set your GPS to Rethymno. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Rethymno, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Venetian Fortezza Castle, an interesting castle in Rethymno. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Rimondi Fountain. This often recommended monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Neratze Mosque is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant mosque in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Rethymnon Municipal Garden and discover what makes this park unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Guora Gate, a photogenic historical landmark many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

Rethymno 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 Rethymno.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're eager to try something different, consider Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lemonokipos Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Antika Irish Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Monitor Art Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Chania. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chania, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rethymno, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Chania. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, an often recommended castle known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a notable marina.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Fountain and uncover the details of this photogenic monument. Make sure to also explore Kastélli, an intriguing archeological site.

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

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

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vazaki, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Emprime 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!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Chania, Kallithea, and Meleses. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Old Chania Market brings Chania's character to life. This historic market is a highlight of any visit in the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kallithea may take around 2 hours 11 min. Upon your arrival in Kallithea, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kallithea is Knossos Palace, a popular archeological site that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

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 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Domaine Paterianakis- Ktima Paterianaki and explore the eye-catching features.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, an iconic dining spot in Heraklion. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Merastri, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Petoúsēs, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Route 66 Rock Bar, a prime location for a drink.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!