Relaxed 12-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for another 5 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Heraklion will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Crete.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heraklion. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Fortifications Of Heraklion is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Heraklion. Next, head to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a curiosity-inducing church, known for its photogenic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nea Alikarnassos. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Heraklion Lighthouse, an underrated lighthouse that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Heraklion has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated dining spot in Heraklion. If you're in the mood for something new, try Athali Cretan Cuisine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Home. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heraklion.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Heraklion’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Crete.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Swing Thing after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stone Project, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tita Briki also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Crete!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Crete means 24 hours of making the best memories in Heraklion. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Heraklion. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Heraklion!

Today’s agenda in Heraklion includes a church, a historical landmark, an escape room, a monument and much more! Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Venetian Loggia, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Escaperooms. Gr, a standout escape room, 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. If you’re looking for more, Morosini Fountain is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Escape House, an often recommended gem to see in the city.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Crete by joining a traveler-approved tour in Heraklion. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Heraklion that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Crete more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Heraklion to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Heraklion, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Route 66 Rock Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Heraklion promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Rocca A Mare Fortress. This picture-perfect castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Historical Museum Of Crete, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Natural History Museum Of Crete, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Fountain Karavola. This grand monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Crete more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Heraklion offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Heraklion has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Vourvourladikon, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Apiri greek_eatery, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kuzina Casual Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Heraklion. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Heraklion can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Crete!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Skotino, Analipsi, Anopolis, and Heraklion destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Heraklion. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Heraklion, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Skotino. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Skotino Cave is a curiosity-inducing cave we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Analipsi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Skotino behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Analipsi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Aposelemi Beach is a worthwhile beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Analipsi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Anopolis. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Anopolis, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Watercity Waterpark Crete, an intriguing water park that everyone visiting Anopolis should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

Exploring the food culture in Heraklion offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to book a table at Ta Kalitera, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Casa Donato, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Hacienda. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Heraklion tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Heraklion.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Skotino can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Crete!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Crete and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Heraklion and beyond. With 1 night left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heraklion, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Krasion may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Krasion, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mnimeiakos Platanos. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monumental Platanos. This worthwhile monument is a traveler-favorite in the village. Not far away, you’ll also find Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monastery.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Epano Kera. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Windmills Of Seli Ambelou, an often recommended historical landmark in Epano Kera. Explore its visually striking 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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Heraklion, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mezedopoleio "i Auli", 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 Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa, 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 Veranda, a hidden gem nestled in Heraklion. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Crete gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Gournes. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

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 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, a popular aquarium known for its picture-perfect features.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, a curiosity-inducing aquarium known for its eye-catching features.

Stalida’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Koytoyloyfari behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Stalida welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Discoveringcrete.com, a worthwhile sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Crete at Agios Nikolaos. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Agios Nikolaos offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the town.

Make sure to book a table at Ofou to lo, a popular restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Agios Nikolaos at Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Zygos Urban Garden. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Agios Nikolaos tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Crete.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yanni's Rock Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Palazzo Cafe Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe Du Lac Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Agios Nikolaos!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Agios Nikolaos and visit amazing attractions in Kritsa, Schisma Eloundas, and Plaka destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 2 nights left in Agios Nikolaos. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

After soaking in Agios Nikolaos’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kritsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Kritsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Church Of Panagia Kera, a curiosity-inducing church known for its stunning features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kritsa and set your GPS to Schisma Eloundas. 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 26 min. Upon reaching Schisma Eloundas, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Windmills Poros Elounda, an increasingly popular historical landmark known for its history-steeped features.

Plaka’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Schisma Eloundas behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Plaka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plaka Beach. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Spinalonga Fortress. This locally renowned castle is a traveler-favorite in the village. Not far away, you’ll also find Spinalonga. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Agios Nikolaos, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Ammoudi Club, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Piato boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out To Potiraki. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Agios Nikolaos. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Puerto Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Aquarius Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 10, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Crete and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Agios Nikolaos and beyond. With 1 night left in Agios Nikolaos, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Agios Nikolaos, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Milatos. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Milatos Cave, a locally appreciated cave that draws attention for its picturesque features.

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 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kremasta Monastery. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Amazonas Park. This locally appreciated zoo is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Neapoli and set your GPS to Karidi. 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 Karidi, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Areti Monastery is an often recommended monastery we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the town.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Crete.

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Crete is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night.

Today’s route brings a photogenic, a romantic, an idyllic, and a breathtaking. The first attraction of today is Treppe Mit Malerei Delphine. This increasingly popular street art is an eye-catching place to see in Agios Nikolaos.

As you stroll around Agios Nikolaos, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to The Abduction Of Europe. Almiros is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Agios Nikolaos.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Heraklion. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Crete by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Heraklion, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Veneto, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ntoré Gastronomy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hari’s Creperiê Heraklion. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Heraklion and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!