Relaxed 7-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos
Description
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Description
Uncover the beauty of Crete on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Heraklion, Kallithea, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, Gournes, Agios Nikolaos, Schisma Eloundas, Neapoli, Milatos, and Kritsa. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Crete at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Heraklion, Kallithea, Agia Pelagia, Piskopiano, Gournes, Agios Nikolaos, Schisma Eloundas, Neapoli, Milatos, and Kritsa. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Heraklion and 3 nights in Agios Nikolaos. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Crete.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Crete. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Heraklion, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Crete and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Crete with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Crete.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Crete. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Knossos Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
Traveling leisurely through Crete means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Morosini Fountain. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. Get close to the spectacular Spinalonga Fortress and the wonderful Rocca A Mare Fortress. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Crete's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Crete.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Crete. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Crete's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Crete.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Crete. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Crete. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Crete and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Heraklion - Arrival day
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- Morosini Fountain
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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 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 Morosini Fountain, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Heraklion. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Greece. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Peskesi, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Koukouvagia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Xalavro Open Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Heraklion. The bars in Heraklion make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Indigo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Polytechneio Cafe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Garden also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Greece. Enjoy your first taste of Heraklion as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Heraklion
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Church of Agios Minas
- Knossos Palace
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 2, 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.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Heraklion, including a castle, a museum, a church, an archeological site and much more! Start your day with a visit to Rocca A Mare Fortress. This intriguing castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Heraklion on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, an intriguing church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Knossos Palace.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heraklion.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Home. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Heraklion.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Swing Thing, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stone Project is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tita Briki also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Crete!
Day 3
- Heraklion
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 137 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Quad Safari Peninsula
- ELA Quad Safari
- Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
- CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
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Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Crete is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Agia Pelagia and end it in the town of Agios Nikolaos. You’ll stay in Agios Nikolaos for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Crete.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heraklion, including a safari park and an aquarium. Start your day at Quad Safari Peninsula. This visually striking safari park is a beloved place to see in Heraklion. Then, wander over to Ela Quad Safari. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this safari park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This visually striking aquarium is a favorite among visitors.
Heraklion offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos is an interesting spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Agios Nikolaos. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular town.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Agios Nikolaos.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ofou to lo, a top-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zygos Urban Garden. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Agios Nikolaos and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting 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.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!
Day 4
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 33 km, 58 min
- Cretan Olive Oil Farm
- Windmills Poros Elounda
- Plaka Beach
- Spinalonga
- Spinalonga fortress
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Agios Nikolaos and visit amazing attractions in Agios Nikolaos, 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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Agios Nikolaos allows for both. Start by heading to Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This up-and-coming farm provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Windmills Poros Elounda, an enchanting historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Plaka Beach, an often recommended beach. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Spinalonga. Round off your day at Spinalonga Fortress, another gem in Agios Nikolaos with visually striking features to discover.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Agios Nikolaos and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Agios Nikolaos.
Savor the flavors at Piazza Cafe Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Karnagio / Pita tou Riga beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Avli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Agios Nikolaos tonight.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Agios Nikolaos and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bajamar - Cocktail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!
Day 5
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 62 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Kremasta Monastery
- AMAZONAS PARK
- Milatos cave
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Agios Nikolaos will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Crete.
Get ready for an exciting day in Agios Nikolaos. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monastery, a zoo, and a cave. Begin your adventure at Kremasta Monastery. This is a locally appreciated monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is Amazonas Park, an up-and-coming zoo in Agios Nikolaos.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Milatos Cave.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos.
When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Agios Nikolaos, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ammoudi Club, a popular restaurant in Agios Nikolaos. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Agios Nikolaos at Piato, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated To Potiraki. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Agios Nikolaos tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Agios Nikolaos’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Crete.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Cafe Puerto Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Aquarius Cafe Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Crete. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Crete tomorrow with new energy.
Day 6
- Agios Nikolaos
- Heraklion
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Drive 87 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Mosaikwand Fotospot (Blumenmädchen)
- Cosmina's Beach
- Abduction of Europe
- Naos Panagias Keras
- Almiros
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Crete will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Crete, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and wallet-friendly activities. The first attraction of today is Mosaikwand Fotospot (blumenmädchen). This locally appreciated art installation is a photogenic place to see in Agios Nikolaos. Continue your discovery at Cosmina's Beach, a romantic beach with stories to tell.
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. Church Of Panagia Kera 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.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Heraklion in this laid-back road trip in Crete. You'll stay here for 1 night.
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.
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. Also, be sure to check out Petoúsēs. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Route 66 Rock Bar, a prime location for a drink.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Crete!
Day 7
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Crete is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Heraklion.
Maximize your last day in Crete and go on a shopping spree in Heraklion’s shopping center, the lively 1866 Street Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Crete.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Heraklion Venetian Port. This beloved marina is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 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.
Savor the flavors at Vourvourladikon, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Apiri greek_eatery beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Heraklion and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Crete is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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