Affordable One-Week Relaxed Crete Road Trip Vacation from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos

Your relaxed 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.

One thing you have to know about Heraklion is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Heraklion.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Morosini Fountain. This extraordinary fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 22,185 visitors.

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.

Discover the heart of Heraklion through its culinary scene, starting with Peskesi. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Avlogyros, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Koukouvagia, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Indigo, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Polytechneio Cafe, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is The Garden, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Crete! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Greece!

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, proving that cheap holidays in Crete can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Heraklion, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Knossos Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 45,087 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Rocca A Mare Fortress. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,703 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This eastern orthodox church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,760 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Natural History Museum Of Crete. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,866 visitors.

Crete is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Crete, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Crete. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Crete that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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.

Discover the heart of Heraklion through its culinary scene, starting with Xalavro Open Bar. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Athali Cretan Cuisine, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Swing Thing offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Heraklion, check out Stone Project. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Tita Briki.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Crete.

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Crete, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Heraklion, Mátala, Agios Ioannis, and Agia Pelagia. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Agios Nikolaos, where you'll stay for 4 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a great place to start. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,611 visitors. Heraklion Archaeological Museum attracts more than 104,717 visitors every year.

After soaking in Heraklion’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mátala. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive in Mátala, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Matalia. This polis is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,363 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mátala and set your GPS to Agios Ioannis. 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 14 min. Upon reaching Agios Ioannis, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Minoan Palace Of Phaistos is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,859 visitors.

Agios Nikolaos 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 town.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Crete by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Agios Nikolaos that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Ofou to lo offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT). Or, try Zygos Urban Garden, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Yanni's Rock Bar, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Palazzo Cafe Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Cafe Du Lac Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Crete.

On day 4 of your affordable vacation in Crete, you’ll start and end your day in Agios Nikolaos, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the town. With 3 nights left in Agios Nikolaos, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plaka. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Plaka Beach your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,148 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Spinalonga. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,981 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this island every year.

Spinalonga Fortress is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,699 visitors.

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

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

Piazza Cafe Bar offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Karnagio / Pita tou Riga. Or, try Avli, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Visit Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Agios Nikolaos. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Bajamar - Cocktail Bar.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Crete!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Agios Nikolaos on day 5 of your affordable vacation in Crete. You’ll continue your stay in Agios Nikolaos for an additional 2 nights. Explore more top attractions in Crete, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Agios Nikolaos, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Milatos may take around 31 min. Upon your arrival in Milatos, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Milatos Cave. This popular cave has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,355 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Milatos, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neapoli. This drive usually takes around 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Amazonas Park. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Neapoli, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,063 visitors.

Kremasta Monastery is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 420 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Agios Nikolaos. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Ammoudi Club, 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 Piato - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Minos Palace Hotel & Suites promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cafe Puerto Bar is an excellent example of a great bar in Agios Nikolaos offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Aquarius Cafe Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Agios Nikolaos.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Crete.

Ready for day 6 of your road trip vacation in Crete? Discover more of Agios Nikolaos and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Drop by the renowned The Abduction Of Europe. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 814 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Almiros. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 590 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,001 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Agios Nikolaos and set your GPS to Kritsa. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Kritsa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Panagia Kera. This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 954 visitors.

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

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

Discover the heart of Agios Nikolaos through its culinary scene, starting with To Potiraki. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Arodo Cafe Bar, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Paradosiako, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Crete! Make every second of your affordable travels in Agios Nikolaos count!

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Crete, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Krasion, Limenas Chersonisou, and Gournes. You'll stay in Heraklion for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Krasion. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Μνημειακός Πλάτανος. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,771 visitors.

When you’re finished at Μνημειακός Πλάτανος, head to Monumental Platanos. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 580 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Krasion, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Limenas Chersonisou may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Limenas Chersonisou, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,807 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gournes. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. This much-appreciated aquarium is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,905 reviews.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Heraklion. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular The Home, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Ουζερί του Τερζάκη από το 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978 is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Merastri.

Route 66 Rock Bar offers many snacks and liquors at different price points.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Crete.

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Crete as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Heraklion.

As your final day in Crete unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Heraklion's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Crete.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Heraklion is the remarkable Heraklion Venetian Port. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,173 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Heraklion or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Heraklion, consider a top-rated restaurant like Petoúsēs, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Vourvourladikon is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Apiri greek_eatery, 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 and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Crete!