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

Day 2 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 Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. This heritage-rich church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Venetian Loggia, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Morosini Fountain, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its symbolic features.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Athali Cretan Cuisine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Home. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Swing Thing, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stone Project is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tita Briki 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 Heraklion!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Heraklion and Kallithea destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 7 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Heraklion on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Fortifications Of Heraklion is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant monument before continuing your journey. Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa is your next stop. This locally appreciated church is one of the best-rated sights in Heraklion.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This culturally significant cemetery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Knossos Palace.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Merastri offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Petoúsēs is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heraklion.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Route 66 Rock Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for another 6 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.

Start by visiting Heraklion Lighthouse, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected lighthouse is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rocca A Mare Fortress, another must-visit landmark and often recommended castle renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Heraklion by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Historical Museum Of Crete. This instagrammable museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Heraklion experience. We also recommend visiting Natural History Museum Of Crete, a frequently visited museum. Nearby, you'll also find Fountain Karavola, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 reserve a table at Vourvourladikon, 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 Apiri greek_eatery, 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 Kuzina Casual Food, 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.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 5, 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 5 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today's adventure in Heraklion promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. This eye-catching aquarium is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, one of the village’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

Dine in style at Ta Kalitera, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Casa Donato boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hacienda. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight 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.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 8, 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 2 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Heraklion is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Safari Club Crete, a locally appreciated safari park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Paralia Stalidos, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Watercity Waterpark Crete. This water park is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Heraklion 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 city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

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 10 of your relaxed road trip across Crete promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Agios Nikolaos and drive in the direction of the town of Sitia for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Sitia, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Heraklion. Your adventure starts at Cretan Olive Oil Farm, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is The Abduction Of Europe. This intriguing point of interest is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Heraklion's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cosmina's Beach. This awe-inspiring beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Sitia in this laid-back road trip in Crete. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Sitia, 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 To limani, an iconic dining spot in Sitia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Krētikós, a popular restaurant in Sitia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zorba's Tavern, a hidden gem nestled in Sitia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 Sitia. The bars in Sitia make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rakadika. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Exo Lounge Cafe offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Nouvelle Boutique, another top-rated bar in the area.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Crete!

Day 11 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 Kritsa and end it in the village of Milatos. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sitia, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Church Of Panagia Kera, an underrated church in the village. Then, head to Almiros and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable beach.

There are many interesting places to see in Sitia, and when you are ready for more, go to Amazonas Park. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the up-and-coming Milatos Cave.

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.

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 city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at KOUZEINERI, 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 Central Park, 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 DISH BAR PARTY RESTAURANT, 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.

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