7-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno and Chania

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rethymno. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heraklion, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, an intriguing church in the city. Then, head to Natural History Museum Of Crete and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Heraklion, and when you are ready for more, go to Heraklion Venetian Port. This is one of the city’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the marina, visit the up-and-coming Rocca A Mare Fortress. Not far away, you'll also find Knossos Palace. This archeological site is a respected highlight in Heraklion. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Venetian Fortezza Castle, a popular castle in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rethymno, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rethymno. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lemonokipos Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Antika Irish Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Monitor Art Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Crete.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Rethymno, Mouri, and Chania. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chania, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Rimondi Fountain. This worthwhile monument is a standout place to see in Rethymno. Continue your discovery at Guora Gate, a symbolic historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rethymno, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rethymnon Municipal Garden. This often recommended park offers a mesmerizing encounter with Rethymno. Next, make your way to Kournas to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a notable marina that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rethymno.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chania. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Chania. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at To Maridaki, a highly-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Vazaki. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Emprime provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Crete and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Crete with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Chania for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Falasarna and Chania.

Today’s agenda in Chania includes a beach, a lighthouse, and a monastery. Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2 is must-visit beach and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lighthouse Of Chania, a frequently visited lighthouse, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, a picture-perfect monastery, also available for your discovery today.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Chania. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salis, an iconic dining spot in Chania. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, a popular restaurant in Chania. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Well of the Turk, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Barbarossa is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.

On day 6 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 Chania, Eleytherna, and Melidoni. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.

Chania is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Old Chania Market, a popular market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Ancient Theater Of Aptera, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Arkadi Monastery. This monastery is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Chania at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ancient Eleutherna. After exploring the archeological site, head to the locally appreciated Cave Of Melidoni.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heraklion's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Swing Thing. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Stone Project offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Tita Briki, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.