Cheap 5-Day Crete Road Trip from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos

Your exciting road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Heraklion, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Heraklion and begin your adventure in Crete.

Heraklion is a popular cheap holiday destination in Greece with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Greece, Heraklion is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Make Venetian Port of Heraklion your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,844 reviews.

A cheap, budget vacation in Heraklion should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Heraklion, try some of our top recommendations.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Peskesi, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Koukouvagia - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Xalavro Open Bar promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Heraklion, Indigo. Alternatively, visit Polytechneio Cafe, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The Garden, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Crete!

Day 2 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Crete. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Heraklion! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Heraklion and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Rocca a Mare Fortress is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,496 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Natural History Museum of Crete. This natural history museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,778 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Church of Agios Minas and Pantanassa. The eastern orthodox church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,671 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This point of interest is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,691 reviews.

Knossos Palace is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this point of interest, rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 43,405 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Heraklion. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Heraklion offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Crete.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Home, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Merastri, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Vourvourladikon, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Swing Thing, a must-visit destination for a great night out.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Crete! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Heraklion!

Day 3 of your road trip across Crete offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Limenas Chersonisou, Gournes, and Heraklion. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Agios Nikolaos, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Gournes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Limenas Chersonisou. Your travel time is around 14 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. Previous visitors have rated this aquarium an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,617 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Heraklion and set your GPS to Gournes. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Gournes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos. This extraordinary aquarium has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,292 visitors.

After soaking in Heraklion’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gournes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Gournes, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Over 104,717 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this archaeological museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,882 reviews.

While exploring Crete is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Agios Nikolaos has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Agios Nikolaos on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

Savor the culinary delights of Agios Nikolaos, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the town offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Ofou to lo, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT) - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Zygos Urban Garden, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Yanni's Rock Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Palazzo cafe bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is cafe Du Lac bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Crete!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Crete will take you to the city of Heraklion, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Heraklion, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Crete, including Plaka, Milatos, and Neapoli.

When you arrive in Plaka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Spinalonga fortress. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,257 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Spinalonga. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,901 visitors, this island deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Plaka Beach. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,959 reviews.

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

Journey into the unknown at Milatos cave, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable cave has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,298 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Neapoli, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to AMAZONAS PARK. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,872 reviews.

Heraklion offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Crete. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Heraklion, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Apiri greek_eatery, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Kuzina Casual Food offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Casa Donato is the perfect spot for you!

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Crete with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Crete!

Your budget road trip vacation in Crete is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Heraklion.

Maximize your last day in Crete and go on a shopping spree in Heraklion’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Crete, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Crete home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Crete, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Heraklion.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Heraklion, consider a top-rated restaurant like Hacienda. , offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Μεζεδοπωλείο "Η Αυλη" is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Λίγο Κρασί Λίγο Θάλασσα, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Heraklion.

You’ll then say farewell to Heraklion. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Crete!