9-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion traveling west to Rethymno and Chania

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.

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 locally renowned archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Fortifications Of Heraklion, a culturally significant monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Natural History Museum Of Crete, a locally appreciated museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. Not far away from the church, you will find the picture-perfect Rocca A Mare Fortress, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Heraklion Archaeological Museum, another gem in Heraklion with instagrammable features to discover.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Athali Cretan Cuisine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Home. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Swing Thing offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Stone Project is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tita Briki is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Say good night to Heraklion and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heraklion, including a monastery, a castle, a monument, a public square, a park, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Arkadi Monastery. This intriguing monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Venetian Fortezza Castle located in Heraklion for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rimondi Fountain. Its respected features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Iroon Politechniou Square. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this public square. Next up is Rethymnon Municipal Garden, a highly recommended park. For a change of pace, head to Guora Gate. As one of the most intriguing attractions in Heraklion, this historical landmark is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rethymno. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lemonokipos Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rethymno tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Antika Irish Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Monitor Art Café provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Rethymno and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Crete!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rethymno, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the increasingly popular Preveli Palm Forest, an eye-catching beach in Rethymno. Next, go to Preveli Beach.

After visiting Preveli Palm Forest and Preveli Beach, have a stroll along Rethymno's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kourtaliotiko Gorge. This serene canyon offers a unique experience. Big Waterfall is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Noble, a top-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider PAGLIACCIO, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Queens Room Club Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bonobo Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Store 311, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Kalyves and 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’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Rethymno on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Koumos is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic sculpture garden before continuing your journey. Greek National Football Team Museum is your next stop. This up-and-coming museum is one of the best-rated sights in Rethymno.

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 Old Chania Market. This heritage-rich market is a sight to behold.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Chania, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

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.

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

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

Day 6 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 often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Seitan Limania. This mesmerizing 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 standout monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Eleftherios Venizelos House. After exploring the museum, head to Ethnikos Drumos Samarias. This intriguing national park is a highlight in Chania.

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 explore more of Chania, 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 delicious meal at Salis, a top-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Well of the Turk. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Barbarossa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Crete!

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Chania for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Falasarna.

Chania is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2, an up-and-coming beach that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Topolia Gorge, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Cave Of Agia Sofia. This cave is one of the village’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Chania at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Elafonisi.

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

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.

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

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Chania and Mouri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Chania is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a notable marina that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Lighthouse Of Chania. This lighthouse is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Chania at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ancient Theater Of Aptera. After exploring the archeological site, head to the often recommended Kournas.

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

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.

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 fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Route 66 Rock Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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