One-Week Relaxed Crete Road Trip from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos

Your relaxed road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Heraklion, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Heraklion and begin your adventure in Crete.

Kick off the day at Morosini Fountain, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 22,185 reviews.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Peskesi, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Avlogyros, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koukouvagia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

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.

Keep the evening going at Indigo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Polytechneio Cafe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Garden, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Greece. Enjoy your first taste of Heraklion as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Crete, you’ll go deep into Heraklion, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Heraklion, and meet locals along the way!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Knossos Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 45,087 reviews.

Continue your journey at Rocca A Mare Fortress. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,703 travelers from near and far.

Heraklion is also the home of Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This eastern orthodox church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,760 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Natural History Museum Of Crete. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,866 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Crete more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Heraklion offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Xalavro Open Bar, 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 Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, 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 Athali Cretan Cuisine, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Swing Thing, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stone Project. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tita Briki, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Crete. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Crete.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,611 visitors. Heraklion Archaeological Museum welcomes around 104,717 visitors every year.

Set your GPS to Mátala and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Mátala beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Matalia is a great place to start. This polis is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,363 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mátala, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Agios Ioannis may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Agios Ioannis, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Minoan Palace Of Phaistos one of your first sightseeing stops in Agios Ioannis. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,859 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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 Agios Nikolaos.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ofou to lo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT) is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zygos Urban Garden. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Agios Nikolaos tonight.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Yanni's Rock Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Palazzo Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cafe Du Lac Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Crete.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 4, 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 Plaka and beyond. With 3 nights left in Agios Nikolaos, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the hamlet.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Plaka, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Agios Nikolaos to Plaka may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plaka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaka Beach is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,148 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Spinalonga. This island has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,981 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Spinalonga Fortress. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,699 visitors.

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

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 Agios Nikolaos, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to book a table at Piazza Cafe Bar, a popular restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Agios Nikolaos at Karnagio / Pita tou Riga, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Avli. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Agios Nikolaos tonight.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bajamar - Cocktail Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Agios Nikolaos 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 Agios Nikolaos and visit amazing attractions in Milatos, and Neapoli destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 2 nights left in Agios Nikolaos. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Agios Nikolaos and set your GPS to Milatos. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 31 min. Upon reaching Milatos, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Milatos Cave. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,355 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Milatos, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neapoli may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Neapoli, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Amazonas Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,063 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Kremasta Monastery. This place of worship has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 420 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Agios Nikolaos 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 town.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ammoudi Club, an iconic dining spot in Agios Nikolaos. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Piato, a popular restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Minos Palace Hotel & Suites, a hidden gem nestled in Agios Nikolaos. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 town.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Puerto Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Aquarius Cafe Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Crete.

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Agios Nikolaos will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Crete.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at The Abduction Of Europe. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 814 visitors.

When you’re finished at The Abduction Of Europe, head to Almiros. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 590 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,001 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Agios Nikolaos, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kritsa. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Church Of Panagia Kera. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 954 visitors.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Agios Nikolaos has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Have a fantastic dining experience at To Potiraki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arodo Cafe Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Paradosiako is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Crete. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Crete tomorrow with new energy.

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Crete promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Krasion and drive in the direction of the town of Limenas Chersonisou for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Heraklion, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Krasion’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Agios Nikolaos behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Krasion welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Μνημειακός Πλάτανος. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,771 visitors.

Monumental Platanos is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 580 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Limenas Chersonisou, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Krasion to Limenas Chersonisou may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Limenas Chersonisou, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,807 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Limenas Chersonisou and set your GPS to Gournes. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 13 min. Upon reaching Gournes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, a remarkable aquarium where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,905 reviews.

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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Heraklion has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Home, 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 ουζερί του Τερζάκη από το 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, 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 Merastri, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Route 66 Rock Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Krasion can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Crete!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Crete is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Heraklion.

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

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Heraklion is the remarkable Heraklion Venetian Port. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,173 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Heraklion or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vourvourladikon, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Heraklion and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Crete is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.