One-Week Relaxed Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos

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 2 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Heraklion. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cemetery, a church, a museum, an archeological site and much more! Begin your adventure at Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This is an increasingly popular cemetery you should not miss. Another must-see is Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, an intriguing church in Heraklion.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Heraklion Archaeological Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Knossos Palace, another of the city’s popular attractions.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, 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 Athali Cretan Cuisine, 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 The Home. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Swing Thing. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Stone Project, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tita Briki provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, Vori, and Mátala destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Heraklion. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heraklion, including a castle, a museum, a safari park, an archeological site, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Rocca A Mare Fortress. This increasingly popular castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Natural History Museum Of Crete located in Heraklion for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Quad Safari Peninsula. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the safari park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Minoan Palace Of Phaistos. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this archeological site. Next up is Matalia, a highly recommended beach.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Merastri? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Petoúsēs as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heraklion.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Route 66 Rock Bar, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Crete promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Gournes and drive in the direction of the village of Piskopiano for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and natural wonders in the charming village of Heraklion. Your adventure starts at Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This frequently visited aquarium is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Heraklion's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Mnimeiakos Platanos. This peaceful monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Monumental Platanos is also worth visiting.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Agios Nikolaos. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Crete by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

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.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Yanni's Rock Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Palazzo Cafe Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe Du Lac Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Crete, you’ll go deep into Agios Nikolaos, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Agios Nikolaos, and meet locals along the way!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Agios Nikolaos. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! The Abduction Of Europe is the perfect place to start. This point of interest is one of the most underrated places to visit in Agios Nikolaos. Next, head to Cosmina's Beach, an often recommended beach, known for its mesmerizing 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 Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This gorgeous farm is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Crete. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Puerto Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Aquarius Cafe Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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!

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Crete is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Agios Nikolaos and end it in the city of Heraklion. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night. 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Agios Nikolaos allows for both. Start by heading to Fisherman’s Crypt. This often recommended museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Archaeological Museum Of Agios Nikolaos, a respected museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Amazonas Park, a locally appreciated zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Milatos Cave.

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 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 Heraklion, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vourvourladikon, 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 Apiri greek_eatery, 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 Kuzina Casual Food, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Heraklion!