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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Crete and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Heraklion and beyond. With 1 night left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Knossos Palace. This captivating archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rocca A Mare Fortress, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Heraklion Venetian Port, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Heraklion. This marina is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Morosini Fountain, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the intriguing Natural History Museum Of Crete, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Heraklion, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Home. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Heraklion.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Swing Thing offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Stone Project is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tita Briki is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Crete is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Rethymno for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Crete.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Heraklion on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Venetian Fortezza Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Rimondi Fountain is your next stop. This up-and-coming monument is one of the best-rated sights in Heraklion.

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 Neratze Mosque. This photogenic mosque is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rethymnon Municipal Garden and Guora Gate.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Crete at Rethymno. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rethymno, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lemonokipos Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Antika Irish Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Monitor Art Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Rethymno as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Crete with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Rethymno, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Rethymno will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Crete.

Make sure to visit Akti Kountourioti, a popular street in Chania. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Rethymno. Your adventure starts at Lighthouse Of Chania, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Greek National Football Team Museum. This frequently visited museum is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rethymno's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Old Chania Market. This heritage-rich market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Trimartiri, Chania's Cathedral Church is also worth visiting, along with Old Venetian Port Of Chania. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

Exploring the food culture in Rethymno offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Noble, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, PAGLIACCIO boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Queens Room Club Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rethymno.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Rethymno’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Crete.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bonobo Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Store 311 offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Rethymno as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Crete with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rethymno and visit amazing attractions in Asomatos destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Rethymno. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rethymno today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Holy Monastery Of Piso Preveli. This instagrammable monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Preveli Palm Forest and learn what makes this mesmerizing beach unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Preveli Beach. After exploring the beach, head to Kourtaliotiko Gorge. This increasingly popular canyon is a highlight in Rethymno.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Rethymno, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Crete.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Crete!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Crete will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Crete, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Get ready for an exciting day in Rethymno. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, an archeological site, a monastery, a winery and much more! Begin your adventure at Museum Of Cretan Ethnology. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Minoan Palace Of Phaistos, a beloved archeological site in Rethymno.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Monastery Panagia Kaliviani. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room, another of the village’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Heraklion. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Merastri beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Petoúsēs. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Route 66 Rock Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Crete!