7-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion traveling east to Agios Nikolaos
Description
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Description
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, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, Gournes, Agios Nikolaos, Schisma Eloundas, Neapoli, Milatos, and Kritsa.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Crete takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Heraklion and 3 nights in Agios Nikolaos. 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 Heraklion Archaeological Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Morosini Fountain, learn more about the unique Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Spinalonga Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, Gournes, Agios Nikolaos, Schisma Eloundas, Neapoli, Milatos, and Kritsa, 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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Day 1
- Heraklion - Arrival day
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- Morosini Fountain
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Your road trip adventure in Crete begins as soon as you reach Heraklion and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 Morosini Fountain, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Peskesi, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Koukouvagia, 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 Xalavro Open Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Indigo, known for its lively atmosphere. Polytechneio Cafe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Garden offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Crete!
Day 2
- Heraklion
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Church of Agios Minas
- Knossos Palace
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Heraklion and Kallithea. You still have 1 night left in Heraklion.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heraklion. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Rocca A Mare Fortress is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Heraklion. Next, head to Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a locally renowned museum, known for its visually striking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This culturally significant church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Knossos Palace. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heraklion.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Athali Cretan Cuisine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Home. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Crete.
Day 3
- Heraklion
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 137 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Quad Safari Peninsula
- ELA Quad Safari
- Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
- CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, and Gournes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Heraklion is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Quad Safari Peninsula, an often recommended safari park that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Ela Quad Safari, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This aquarium is one of the village’s most frequently visited spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Heraklion at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos. Agios Nikolaos 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 Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ofou to lo, a top-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zygos Urban Garden. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yanni's Rock Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Palazzo Cafe Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe Du Lac Bar 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.
Day 4
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 33 km, 58 min
- Cretan Olive Oil Farm
- Windmills Poros Elounda
- Plaka Beach
- Spinalonga
- Spinalonga fortress
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Agios Nikolaos, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Agios Nikolaos, including a farm, a historical landmark, a beach, an archeological site, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This beloved farm is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Windmills Poros Elounda located in Agios Nikolaos for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Plaka Beach. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Spinalonga. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this archeological site. Next up is Spinalonga Fortress, a highly recommended castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Agios Nikolaos and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Agios Nikolaos. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Piazza Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood for something new, try Karnagio / Pita tou Riga, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Avli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Agios Nikolaos.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bajamar - Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!
Day 5
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 62 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Kremasta Monastery
- AMAZONAS PARK
- Milatos cave
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Crete. With 1 night left in Agios Nikolaos, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Agios Nikolaos allows for both. Start by heading to Kremasta Monastery. This worthwhile monastery provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Amazonas Park, an enchanting zoo, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Milatos Cave, an often recommended cave.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ammoudi Club, a top-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Piato, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at To Potiraki. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Puerto Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Aquarius Cafe Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!
Day 6
- Agios Nikolaos
- Heraklion
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Drive 87 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Mosaikwand Fotospot (Blumenmädchen)
- Cosmina's Beach
- Abduction of Europe
- Naos Panagias Keras
- Almiros
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Agios Nikolaos and Kritsa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heraklion. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities. Start at the increasingly popular Mosaikwand Fotospot (blumenmädchen), an eye-catching art installation in Agios Nikolaos. Next, go to Cosmina's Beach.
Church Of Panagia Kera is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Almiros, one of the most serene places to visit in Agios Nikolaos.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heraklion's best restaurants.
Dine in style at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Merastri boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Petoúsēs. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Route 66 Rock Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Crete and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
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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, we recommend visiting Heraklion Venetian Port, a romantic marina before you head out.
As your final day in Crete unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Heraklion's best shopping area, Talos Plaza. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Crete.
Before you conclude your road trip in Crete, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Heraklion.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Apiri greek_eatery, another premier location with a delectable 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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