Relaxed 9-Day Crete Road Trip Starting from Heraklion to Sitia

Your relaxed road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Heraklion, where you'll stay for 6 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Heraklion and begin your adventure in Crete.

When you're ready to see some sights, Kornarou Square is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 490 visitors.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Peskesi, 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 Avlogyros, 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 Koukouvagia, 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 Greece.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Indigo after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Polytechneio Cafe for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Garden is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Crete means 24 hours of making the best memories in Heraklion. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Heraklion. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Heraklion!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This eastern orthodox church is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Heraklion, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,760 visitors.

Morosini Fountain is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 22,185 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Escaperooms. Gr. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 455 reviews.

Venetian Loggia is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a point of interest rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 866 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, perhaps the most famous church in Heraklion. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,273 travelers.

Crete makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Crete also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

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

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

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Crete!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.

Make Rocca A Mare Fortress one of your first sightseeing stops in Heraklion. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,703 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Historical Museum Of Crete is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,531 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Natural History Museum Of Crete. This natural history museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,866 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Fountain Karavola. A trip to this popular point of interest is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 825 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Fortifications Of Heraklion. This city walls enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,181 local and international travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Crete by joining a traveler-approved tour in Heraklion. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Heraklion that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Crete more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Heraklion to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Heraklion 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 city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Home, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ουζερί του Τερζάκη από το 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978 offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Merastri. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Route 66 Rock Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Crete, you’ll go deep into Heraklion, where you'll stay for 3 nights, 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!

Journey into the unknown at Nikos Kazantzakis Grave, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,719 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Venetian Gate St. George is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 112 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Heraklion is Statue Of Eleftherios Venizelos, Irakleio. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 488 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Heraklion offers an experience you will remember.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Heraklion. This archaeological museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,611 reviews. Each year, approximately 104,717 people travel to visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Lastly, don't miss out on Knossos Palace. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 45,087 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Crete. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Heraklion itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful 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.

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

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Heraklion. The bars in Heraklion make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 5, 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 Gournes and beyond. With 2 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

Gournes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heraklion behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Gournes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,905 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Limenas Chersonisou. This car ride takes around 14 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre is a great place to start. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,807 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Limenas Chersonisou and set your GPS to Epano Kera. 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 27 min. Upon reaching Epano Kera, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,842 visitors.

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

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 book a table at Kuzina Casual Food, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Ta Kalitera, 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 Casa Donato. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Heraklion 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 city.

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 Anopolis, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Anopolis will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of Crete.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Anopolis. This car ride takes around 20 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Watercity Waterpark Crete is a great place to start. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,653 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Anopolis and set your GPS to Krasion. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Krasion, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Next, make your way to Monumental Platanos. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 580 visitors.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Hacienda. , a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Μεζεδοπωλείο "Η Αυλη" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Λίγο Κρασί Λίγο Θάλασσα. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.

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.

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

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Crete is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Plaka and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Agios Nikolaos and the town of Sitia. You’ll stay in Sitia for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plaka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Plaka Beach your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,148 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Spinalonga. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,981 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this island every year.

Spinalonga Fortress is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,699 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Plaka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Agios Nikolaos may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Agios Nikolaos, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cretan Olive Oil Farm is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,001 visitors.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Sitia. 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.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Το λιμάνι, a top-rated dining spot in Sitia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Krētikós, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zorba's Tavern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sitia.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Sitia and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rakadika after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Exo Lounge Cafe for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nouvelle Boutique is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

On day 8 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.

Set your GPS to Agios Nikolaos and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Agios Nikolaos beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Abduction Of Europe. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 814 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Agios Nikolaos, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Neapoli. Your travel time is around 21 min.

Journey into the unknown at Amazonas Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,063 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Milatos, 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 Neapoli to Milatos may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Milatos, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Milatos Cave. This extraordinary cave has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,355 visitors.

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.

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 meal at Veranda, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Veneto is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ntoré Gastronomy. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion 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 city.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Crete!

Day 9 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.

Make the most of your final day in Crete by visiting Heraklion’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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 9 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 Érganos, 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 9-day relaxed road trip in Crete is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.