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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Crete as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, Chania, Falasarna, Eleytherna, and Melidoni.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Crete takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Heraklion, 1 night in Rethymno, and 3 nights in Chania. 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 Old Venetian Port Of Chania are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Heraklion Archaeological Museum, learn more about the unique Morosini Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Venetian Fortezza Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, Chania, Falasarna, Eleytherna, and Melidoni, 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
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Church of Agios MinasNatural History Museum of CreteΕνετικό Λιμάνι ΗρακλείουΕνετικό Φρούριο Rocca a MareKnossos PalaceVenetian Fortezza Castle
Rimondi Venetian FountainPorta GuoraMunicipal GardenΛίμνη ΚουρνάOld Venetian Port of Chania
Falasarna beachLighthouse of ChaniaHoly Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli MonasterySeitan Limania
GramvousaGramvoussa FortBalos Lagoon
Old Chania MarketAncient Theater of ApteraArkadi MonasteryAncient EleuthernaCave of Melidoni
Morosini Fountain

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
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  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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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 1 night 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 Archaeological Museum, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Heraklion, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Indigo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Polytechneio Cafe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Garden also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Crete!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Heraklion
  • Rethymno
  • More

Drive 98 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Church of Agios Minas
  • Natural History Museum of Crete
  • Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
  • Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
  • Knossos Palace
  • Venetian Fortezza Castle
  • More

On day 2 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 Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Heraklion includes a church, a museum, a marina, a castle, an archeological site and much more! Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Natural History Museum Of Crete, a beloved museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Heraklion Venetian Port, a respected marina, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Heraklion. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the up-and-coming Rocca A Mare Fortress. If you’re looking for more, Knossos Palace is also an interesting attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Venetian Fortezza Castle, a place of visually striking interest in the city.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rethymno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Agrimia Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lemonokipos Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rethymno.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Antika Irish Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Monitor Art Café, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Rethymno
  • Chania
  • More

Drive 67 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Rimondi Venetian Fountain
  • Porta Guora
  • Municipal Garden
  • Λίμνη Κουρνά
  • Old Venetian Port of Chania
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Rethymno, Mouri, and Chania, 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 Chania. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Rethymno on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Rimondi Fountain is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic monument before continuing your journey. Guora Gate is your next stop. This frequently visited historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Rethymno.

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 Rethymnon Municipal Garden. This idyllic park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kournas and Old Venetian Port Of Chania.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at To Maridaki, a highly-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vazaki, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Emprime is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Chania
  • More

Drive 154 km, 3 hours 23 min

  • Falasarna beach
  • Lighthouse of Chania
  • Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery
  • Seitan Limania
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Chania, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Falasarna and Chania. You still have 2 nights left in Chania.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. 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. Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2 is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable beach before continuing your journey. Lighthouse Of Chania is your next stop. This underrated lighthouse 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 Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery. This inviting monastery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Seitan Limania.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Chania and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Salis, a top-rated dining spot in Chania. If you're in the mood for something new, try Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Well of the Turk. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Chania.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Barbarossa offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

  • Chania
  • More

Drive 108 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Gramvousa
  • Gramvoussa Fort
  • Balos Lagoon
  • More

Day 5 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 city.

Today's adventure in Chania promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Gramvousa. This serene beach is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Gramvoussa Fort, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Balos Lagoon, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its serene features.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Chania's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Plaka, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KAIKI is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Nama Restobar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Chania
  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 174 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Old Chania Market
  • Ancient Theater of Aptera
  • Arkadi Monastery
  • Ancient Eleutherna
  • Cave of Melidoni
  • More

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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Chania. Your adventure starts at Old Chania Market, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ancient Theater Of Aptera. This locally appreciated archeological site is known for its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Chania's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Arkadi Monastery. This breathtaking monastery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ancient Eleutherna is also worth visiting, along with Cave Of Melidoni. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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 Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, 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 Athali Cretan Cuisine, 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 The Home, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Swing Thing, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stone Project is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tita Briki ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Crete!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Heraklion - Departure day
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  • Morosini Fountain
  • More

Day 7 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, begin at Morosini Fountain. This interesting monument is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Crete, take time to indulge in shopping at Heraklion’s popular marketplace, 1866 Street Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Merastri is another top choice with a popular 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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