5-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion traveling west to Chania

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Crete. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Crete takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Heraklion and 2 nights in Chania. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Crete. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Heraklion, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Crete on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Crete. Knossos Palace and Old Venetian Port Of Chania are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Heraklion Archaeological Museum, learn more about the unique Morosini Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Venetian Fortezza Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Chania, and Rethymno, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Crete. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Crete.

Throughout your road trip in Crete, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Crete.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Crete fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Crete today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Heraklion Archaeological MuseumMorosini FountainChurch of Agios MinasΕνετικό Φρούριο Rocca a MareKnossos Palace
Seitan LimaniaHoly Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli MonasteryOld Chania MarketOld Venetian Port of ChaniaLighthouse of Chania
GramvousaBalos LagoonVenetian Fortezza CastleRimondi Venetian Fountain

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
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Welcome to Heraklion, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Greece! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Heraklion's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Heraklion is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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 Heraklion, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Indigo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Polytechneio Cafe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Garden provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Crete!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Heraklion
  • Chania
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Drive 151 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • Morosini Fountain
  • Church of Agios Minas
  • Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
  • Knossos Palace
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Heraklion and Kallithea. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chania. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This well-known museum is a photogenic place to see in Heraklion. Continue your discovery at Morosini Fountain, a noteworthy monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heraklion, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This intriguing church offers an inviting encounter with Heraklion. Next, make your way to Rocca A Mare Fortress to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Knossos Palace, an interesting archeological site that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Heraklion.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chania. 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 Chania's best restaurants.

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Chania
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour 42 min

  • Seitan Limania
  • Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery
  • Old Chania Market
  • Old Venetian Port of Chania
  • Lighthouse of Chania
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip across Crete promises a magnificent time exploring Chania. You have 1 night left in Chania. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Chania is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a monastery, a market, a marina, a lighthouse and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Seitan Limania and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, a stunning monastery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Old Chania Market, one of the region’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Old Venetian Port Of Chania. When you're finished at the marina, Lighthouse Of Chania awaits your visit. This lighthouse is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

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 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 Salis, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Well of the Turk is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Barbarossa, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Chania
  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 247 km, 4 hours 59 min

  • Gramvousa
  • Balos Lagoon
  • Venetian Fortezza Castle
  • Rimondi Venetian Fountain
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rethymno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Chania, including a beach, a castle, and a monument. Start your adventure at Gramvousa. This beloved beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Balos Lagoon located in Chania for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Venetian Fortezza Castle. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Rimondi Fountain. Visitors usually appreciate the noteworthy features of this monument.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Home. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heraklion - Departure day
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Crete is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Heraklion before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Crete, take time to indulge in shopping at Heraklion’s popular marketplace, 1866 Street Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Dine in style at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Merastri boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!

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