One-Week Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Chania

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Crete as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, Chania, and Falasarna.

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 4 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, and Falasarna, 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
Knossos PalaceΕνετικό Φρούριο Rocca a MareΕνετικό Λιμάνι ΗρακλείουChurch of Agios TitosMorosini FountainNatural History Museum of Crete
Municipal GardenPorta GuoraRimondi Venetian FountainVenetian Fortezza CastleΛίμνη Κουρνά
Lighthouse of ChaniaFirka Venetian FortressOld Venetian Port of ChaniaIguana BeachAncient Olive Tree of Vouves
Seitan LimaniaHoly Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli MonasteryGouverneto Monastery
Falasarna beachTopolia GorgeCave of Agia Sofia
Old Chania MarketGreek National Football Team MuseumAncient Theater of Aptera
Church of Agios Minas

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
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  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Peskesi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Koukouvagia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Xalavro Open Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heraklion.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Indigo, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Polytechneio Cafe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Garden. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Crete!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 15 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Knossos Palace
  • Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
  • Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
  • Church of Agios Titos
  • Morosini Fountain
  • Natural History Museum of Crete
  • More

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 Kallithea and Heraklion. You still have 1 night left in Heraklion.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heraklion, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Knossos Palace, a notable archeological site in the village. Then, head to Rocca A Mare Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this stunning castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Heraklion, and when you are ready for more, go to Heraklion Venetian Port. This is one of the village’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the marina, visit the worthwhile Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. Not far away, you'll also find Morosini Fountain. This monument is a noteworthy highlight in Heraklion. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Natural History Museum Of Crete, a curiosity-inducing museum in the village.

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

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

Dine in style at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Athali Cretan Cuisine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Home. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Swing Thing, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Stone Project is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tita Briki is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Heraklion
  • Chania
  • More

Drive 147 km, 2 hours 45 min

  • Municipal Garden
  • Porta Guora
  • Rimondi Venetian Fountain
  • Venetian Fortezza Castle
  • Λίμνη Κουρνά
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Rethymno and Mouri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chania, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Heraklion is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a historical landmark, a monument, a castle, a lake and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Rethymnon Municipal Garden and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Guora Gate, a symbolic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Rimondi Fountain, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Venetian Fortezza Castle. When you're finished at the castle, Kournas awaits your visit. This lake is a serene highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Chania. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at To Maridaki, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Apokoronas as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Chania
  • More

Drive 60 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Lighthouse of Chania
  • Firka Venetian Fortress
  • Old Venetian Port of Chania
  • Iguana Beach
  • Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Chania has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Chania by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Chania. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Lighthouse Of Chania is the perfect place to start. This lighthouse is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Chania. Next, head to Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, a beloved castle, known for its picture-perfect 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 Old Venetian Port Of Chania. This visually striking marina is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Iguana Beach and Ancient Olive Tree Of Vouves. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salis, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Nymphes Coffee & Dessert? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Well of the Turk as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Chania.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Barbarossa, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 5

Day 5

  • Chania
  • More

Drive 56 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Seitan Limania
  • Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery
  • Gouverneto Monastery
  • More

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Chania for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Chania today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Seitan Limania. This romantic beach will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery and learn what makes this monumental monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Gouverneto Monastery.

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 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 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Nama Restobar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Say good night to Chania and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Crete!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Chania
  • More

Drive 127 km, 2 hours 43 min

  • Falasarna beach
  • Topolia Gorge
  • Cave of Agia Sofia
  • More

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Crete. With 1 night left in Chania, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2. This up-and-coming beach is an idyllic place to see in Chania. Continue your discovery at Topolia Gorge, a scenic canyon with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Chania, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cave Of Agia Sofia. This worthwhile cave offers a standout encounter with Chania. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Chania.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Feidias cafe bar Chania, a highly-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ginger Concept, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at MonEs. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Melodica Cafe-bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sinagogi Coctail Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Avalon Rock Pub Chania is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Chania
  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 146 km, 2 hours 38 min

  • Old Chania Market
  • Greek National Football Team Museum
  • Ancient Theater of Aptera
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Chania. 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. 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. Old Chania Market is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich market before continuing your journey. Greek National Football Team Museum is your next stop. This increasingly popular museum 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 Ancient Theater Of Aptera. This historic archeological site is a sight to behold.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heraklion. 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.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Route 66 Rock Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Heraklion - Departure day
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  • Church of Agios Minas
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Day 8 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 Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This up-and-coming church is a popular place to see in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Vourvourladikon, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Apiri greek_eatery offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kuzina Casual Food.

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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