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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rethymno. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the beloved Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, an inviting church in Heraklion. Next, go to Natural History Museum Of Crete.

After visiting Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa and Natural History Museum Of Crete, have a stroll along Heraklion's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Heraklion Venetian Port. This history-steeped marina offers a unique experience. Rocca A Mare Fortress is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Knossos Palace, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Heraklion. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Venetian Fortezza Castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rethymno. Rethymno 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 Rethymno. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Agrimia Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Lemonokipos Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rethymno.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Antika Irish Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Monitor Art Café, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Rethymno, Mouri, and Chania. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chania, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rethymno, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Rimondi Fountain, a worthwhile monument in the city. Then, head to Guora Gate and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Rethymno, and when you are ready for more, go to Rethymnon Municipal Garden. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the locally appreciated Kournas. Not far away, you'll also find Old Venetian Port Of Chania. This marina is an enchanting highlight in Rethymno.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at To Maridaki, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Apokoronas. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Chania tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vazaki, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Emprime provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

On day 4 of your road trip in Crete, you’ll start and end your day in Chania, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Chania for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Falasarna and Chania to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Chania is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a lighthouse, and a monastery. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2 and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lighthouse Of Chania, a history-steeped lighthouse that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, one of the village’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Seitan Limania.

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

As you explore more of Chania, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salis, 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 Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, 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 The Well of the Turk, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Barbarossa offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Chania, Eleytherna, and Melidoni. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heraklion, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Chania on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Old Chania Market is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching market before continuing your journey. Ancient Theater Of Aptera is your next stop. This often recommended archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Chania.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Arkadi Monastery. This awe-inspiring monastery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ancient Eleutherna and Cave Of Melidoni.

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.

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

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

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.