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

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Crete. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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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.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Heraklion, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Peskesi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Koukouvagia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Xalavro Open Bar. 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, Indigo stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Polytechneio Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Garden is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Heraklion
  • Rethymno
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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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rethymno, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Heraklion is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a museum, a marina, a castle, an archeological site and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Natural History Museum Of Crete, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Heraklion Venetian Port, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Rocca A Mare Fortress. When you're finished at the castle, Knossos Palace awaits your visit. This archeological site is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a castle - the notable Venetian Fortezza Castle.

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

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Antika Irish Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Monitor Art Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Crete.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Rethymno
  • Chania
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Drive 67 km, 1 hour 40 min

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

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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. 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 noteworthy monument before continuing your journey. Guora Gate is your next stop. This worthwhile 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 serene park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kournas and Old Venetian Port Of Chania.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Chania. Chania 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 Chania. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at To Maridaki, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Apokoronas. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Crete and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Chania
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Drive 154 km, 3 hours 23 min

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Chania for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Falasarna and Chania.

Chania is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a lighthouse, and a monastery. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated 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 visually striking lighthouse that draws visitors from far and near.

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

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

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Barbarossa, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Chania
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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.

Immerse yourself in Chania’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Gramvousa. This eye-catching beach is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Gramvoussa Fort, a must-visit castle in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Balos Lagoon, a captivating beach.

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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Plaka, a top-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KAIKI. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Nama Restobar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Chania
  • Heraklion
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Drive 174 km, 3 hours 30 min

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Chania, Eleytherna, and Melidoni, 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 Heraklion. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Chania promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Old Chania Market. This heritage-rich market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Ancient Theater Of Aptera, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Arkadi Monastery, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ancient Eleutherna. This stunning archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cave Of Melidoni, a beloved cave, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Swing Thing, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stone Project, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tita Briki likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Heraklion - Departure day
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  • Morosini Fountain
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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 notable monument is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Crete and go on a shopping spree in Heraklion’s shopping center, the lively Talos Plaza. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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.

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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