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, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Catch Knossos Palace before the crowds roll in. This gorgeous archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Fortifications Of Heraklion, a must-visit monument in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Natural History Museum Of Crete, an up-and-coming museum. For a change of scene, check out Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, known for its photogenic features. We also recommend visiting Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Rocca A Mare Fortress, yet another locally appreciated attraction in Heraklion.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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 consistently gains 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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Crete, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rethymno are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Arkadi Monastery is must-visit monastery and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Venetian Fortezza Castle, a notable castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rimondi Fountain, a photogenic monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Heraklion. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Iroon Politechniou Square. If you’re looking for more, Rethymnon Municipal Garden is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Guora Gate, a place of heritage-rich interest in the city.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rethymno. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Antika Irish Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Monitor Art Café also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Crete, you’ll start and end your day in Rethymno, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Rethymno, there’s no need to rush. Experience Asomatos to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Preveli Palm Forest, a mesmerizing 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 romantic 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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rethymno. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bonobo Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Store 311 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Kalyves and Chania. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Chania, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Koumos makes a great addition to your morning plans. This up-and-coming sculpture garden is a visually striking place to see in Rethymno. Continue your discovery at Greek National Football Team Museum, a historic museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rethymno, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Old Chania Market. This captivating market offers a standout encounter with Rethymno. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rethymno.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at To Maridaki, a highly-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Keep the evening going at Vazaki, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Emprime, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Seitan Limania is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This serene beach is sure to impress. Next on your list is Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, another must-visit landmark and underrated monastery renowned for its respected 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 Eleftherios Venizelos House. This eye-catching museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Chania experience. We also recommend visiting Ethnikos Drumos Samarias, an often recommended national park.

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.

Chania is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Chania.

Dine in style at Salis, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Well of the Turk. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Chania.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Barbarossa offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Crete.

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Chania, 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 Falasarna and Tsoyroyniana.

One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2. This eye-catching beach will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Topolia Gorge and learn what makes this picturesque canyon unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Cave Of Agia Sofia. After exploring the cave, head to Elafonisi. This increasingly popular beach is a highlight in Chania.

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

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.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Nama Restobar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Crete includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Chania and Mouri. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heraklion, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the popular Old Venetian Port Of Chania and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka, an instagrammable castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lighthouse Of Chania, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Ancient Theater Of Aptera. When you're finished at the archeological site, Kournas awaits your visit. This lake is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Heraklion is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.

Enjoy a lovely meal at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Merastri is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Petoúsēs. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Route 66 Rock Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.

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