9-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno, Chania, and Agios Nikolaos

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heraklion allows for both. Start by heading to Knossos Palace. This popular archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Rocca A Mare Fortress, a breathtaking castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Heraklion Venetian Port, a curiosity-inducing marina. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. Not far away from the church, you will find the culturally significant Fortifications Of Heraklion, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Natural History Museum Of Crete, another gem in Heraklion with photogenic features to discover.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heraklion's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Swing Thing, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stone Project offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tita Briki provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Crete, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Rethymno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Venetian Fortezza Castle. This locally renowned castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rimondi Fountain, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Neratze Mosque, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Heraklion. This mosque is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rethymnon Municipal Garden. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Guora Gate, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rethymno, 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 Rethymno's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Agrimia Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lemonokipos Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rethymno.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Antika Irish Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Monitor Art Café is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Chania, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Chania. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rethymno, including a museum and a market. Start your day with a visit to Eleftherios Venizelos House. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Greek National Football Team Museum, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rethymno on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Old Chania Market, a popular market in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Chania. Chania offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at To Maridaki, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Apokoronas. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Chania.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Vazaki. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Emprime, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 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.

Start by visiting Lighthouse Of Chania, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant lighthouse is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sabbionara Bastion, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular monument renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Chania by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kastélli. This stunning archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Chania experience. We also recommend visiting Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a notable marina.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chania. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Salis, a popular restaurant in Chania. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Chania at Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, 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 Well of the Turk. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Chania tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Barbarossa for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Krasion and Psichron. 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.

Start by visiting Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking monastery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Greek Mythology Thematic Park, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular amusement park renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Agios Nikolaos by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cave Of Zeus. This visually striking cave is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Agios Nikolaos experience. We also recommend visiting Cave Of Diktaion Andron, a worthwhile cave.

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 you explore more of Heraklion, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, 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 Merastri, 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 Petoúsēs. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Route 66 Rock Bar, a prime location for a drink.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.