6-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 4 nights in Heraklion and 1 night in Agios Nikolaos. 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 Heraklion Archaeological Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Morosini Fountain, learn more about the unique Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Spinalonga Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Gournes, Piskopiano, Krasion, Agios Nikolaos, and Neapoli, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Heraklion
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Heraklion - Arrival day
- More
- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
- More
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 3 nights 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 Heraklion Venetian Port, 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.
Dine in style at Peskesi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Koukouvagia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Xalavro Open Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.
Continue your lively evening at Indigo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Polytechneio Cafe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Garden ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Crete!
Day 2
- Heraklion
- More
Drive 15 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Church of Agios Titos
- Morosini Fountain
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Knossos Palace
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Heraklion and Kallithea. You still have 2 nights left in Heraklion.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque 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. Rocca A Mare Fortress is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning castle before continuing your journey. Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus 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 Morosini Fountain. This heritage-rich monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Heraklion and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heraklion. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Athali Cretan Cuisine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Home as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heraklion.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Swing Thing, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Stone Project offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heraklion. Tita Briki is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Crete and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Heraklion
- More
Drive 5 km, 46 min
- Fortifications of Heraklion
- Church of Agios Minas
- Historical Museum of Crete
- Natural History Museum of Crete
- More
On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Heraklion. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heraklion allows for both. Start by heading to Fortifications Of Heraklion. This underrated monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a photogenic church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Historical Museum Of Crete, an often recommended museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Natural History Museum Of Crete.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Heraklion's bustling shopping hub, Talos Plaza. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Talos Plaza offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heraklion's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Merastri offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Petoúsēs. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.
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 celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!
Day 4
- Heraklion
- Agios Nikolaos
- More
Drive 90 km, 1 hour 46 min
- CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
- Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
- Monumental Platanos
- Platanus Tree
- More
On day 4 of your road trip in Crete, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Gournes, Piskopiano, and Krasion. In the evening, you’ll end up in Agios Nikolaos, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heraklion, including an aquarium and a monument. Start your adventure at Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos. This locally renowned aquarium is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre located in Heraklion for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Monumental Platanos. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Mnimeiakos Platanos. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this monument.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Agios Nikolaos, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Agios Nikolaos. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ofou to lo, a top-rated dining spot in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zygos Urban Garden. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Agios Nikolaos.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Yanni's Rock Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Palazzo Cafe Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Du Lac Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Crete.
Day 5
- Agios Nikolaos
- Heraklion
- More
Drive 87 km, 1 hour 52 min
- Abduction of Europe
- Spinalonga fortress
- Spinalonga
- Plaka Beach
- AMAZONAS PARK
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, and Neapoli. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting The Abduction Of Europe, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Spinalonga Fortress, another must-visit landmark and notable castle renowned for its history-steeped features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Agios Nikolaos by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Spinalonga. This enchanting archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Agios Nikolaos experience. We also recommend visiting Plaka Beach, an up-and-coming beach. Nearby, you'll also find Amazonas Park, ready to add charm to your journey.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Vourvourladikon, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Apiri greek_eatery, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kuzina Casual Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Crete.
Day 6
- Heraklion - Departure day
- More
- Grave Monument of Kazantzakis
- More
Day 6 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This increasingly popular cemetery is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Crete, take time to indulge in shopping at Heraklion’s popular marketplace, Talos Plaza. 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ta Kalitera, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Casa Donato? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Greece
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.