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 get the chance to experience Kallithea and Heraklion. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Heraklion, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the underrated Fortifications Of Heraklion, a culturally significant monument in Heraklion. Next, go to Natural History Museum Of Crete.

After visiting Fortifications Of Heraklion and Natural History Museum Of Crete, have a stroll along Heraklion's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This inviting church offers a unique experience. Heraklion Archaeological Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Rocca A Mare Fortress, one of the most standout places to visit in Heraklion. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Nikos Kazantzakis Grave.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kallithea. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Knossos Palace, a well-known archeological site in Kallithea. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Athali Cretan Cuisine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Home. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Crete includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Rethymno. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rethymno, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Arkadi Monastery and explore the picture-perfect features.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rethymno.

Venetian Fortezza Castle is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rimondi Fountain, a symbolic monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Iroon Politechniou Square, an eye-catching public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Rethymnon Municipal Garden, a serene and truly unique park. End your sightseeing at Guora Gate, an often recommended historical landmark that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Rethymno. Rethymno 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Rethymno, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Agrimia Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Lemonokipos Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rethymno.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Antika Irish Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Monitor Art Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Rethymno, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Asomatos.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Preveli Palm Forest, an often recommended beach that everyone visiting Asomatos should see. Next, head to Preveli Beach. This romantic beach is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rethymno. This car ride takes around 29 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a curiosity-inducing canyon that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Big Waterfall and admire its stunning features.

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

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

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

Keep the evening going at Bonobo Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Store 311, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Kalyves and Chania. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chania, where will spend 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rethymno, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kalyves. This drive usually takes around 41 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Koumos, a locally appreciated sculpture garden known for its romantic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chania may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Chania, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Greek National Football Team Museum, an up-and-coming museum known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Old Chania Market, an interesting market.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at To Maridaki, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Apokoronas as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Chania.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vazaki is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Emprime. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Chania. You’ll stay in Chania for 2 nights.

Check out the increasingly popular monastery, Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery. Afterward, continue to Eleftherios Venizelos House, a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Chania’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Crete. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Salis, an iconic dining spot in Chania. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, a popular restaurant in Chania. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Well of the Turk, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Barbarossa is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Crete, you’ll start and end your day in Chania, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Chania, there’s no need to rush. Experience Falasarna and Tsoyroyniana to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Chania and set your GPS to Falasarna. 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 58 min. Upon reaching Falasarna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2 and explore the stunning features.

After soaking in Falasarna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tsoyroyniana. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Tsoyroyniana, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Topolia Gorge, a locally appreciated canyon that everyone visiting Tsoyroyniana should see. Next, head to Cave Of Agia Sofia. This enchanting cave is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

Spend your afternoon discovering Elafonisi, a locally appreciated beach known for its romantic features.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Chania, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Plaka, an iconic dining spot in Chania. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, a popular restaurant in Chania. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KAIKI, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nama Restobar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Peacock Tail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Crete, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Chania and Mouri are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.

Old Venetian Port Of Chania is an ideal stop early in the day. This notable marina is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Chania 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 Lighthouse Of Chania, an underrated lighthouse in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ancient Theater Of Aptera.

Mouri’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Chania behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Mouri welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Kournas, an up-and-coming lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heraklion. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, 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 Merastri, 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 Petoúsēs, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Route 66 Rock Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Crete.