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.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Heraklion on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating archeological site, Knossos Palace. Afterward, continue to Rocca A Mare Fortress, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Heraklion’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Heraklion Venetian Port. This frequently visited marina is an essential stop. Following that, head to Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Morosini Fountain, a captivating monument in the village. Finally, end your day with a visit to Natural History Museum Of Crete, an eye-catching museum that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

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 Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Athali Cretan Cuisine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Home. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Heraklion.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Swing Thing, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stone Project is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tita Briki also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heraklion, including a castle, a monument, a mosque, a park, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Venetian Fortezza Castle. This interesting castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Rimondi Fountain located in Heraklion for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Neratze Mosque. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the mosque, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Rethymnon Municipal Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park. Next up is Guora Gate, a highly recommended historical landmark.

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

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.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Rethymno. The bars in Rethymno make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Antika Irish Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Monitor Art Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rethymno and visit amazing attractions in Chania destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights 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.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Chania is Akti Kountourioti. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rethymno allows for both. Start by heading to Lighthouse Of Chania. This up-and-coming lighthouse provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Greek National Football Team Museum, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Old Chania Market, a captivating market. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Trimartiri, Chania's Cathedral Church. Round off your day at Old Venetian Port Of Chania, another gem in Rethymno with respected features to discover.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Rethymno.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Noble, a highly-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're eager to try something different, consider PAGLIACCIO, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Queens Room Club Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bonobo Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Store 311 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Rethymno, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Holy Monastery Of Piso Preveli is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic monastery before continuing your journey. Preveli Palm Forest is your next stop. This worthwhile beach 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 Preveli Beach. This serene beach is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rethymno 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 Rethymno, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Othonas, a popular restaurant in Rethymno. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rethymno at Hasika, 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 Kapilio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rethymno tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Rethymno and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Crete promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Vori and drive in the direction of the village of Meleses for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Heraklion, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rethymno today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Museum Of Cretan Ethnology. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Minoan Palace Of Phaistos and learn what makes this respected archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Monastery Panagia Kaliviani. After exploring the monastery, head to Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room. This intriguing winery is a highlight in Rethymno.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Heraklion in this laid-back road trip in Crete. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.

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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Route 66 Rock Bar is an excellent place to start.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!