10-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno, Chania, and Agios Nikolaos

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 Kallithea and Heraklion. You still have 1 night left in Heraklion.

Immerse yourself in Heraklion’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Knossos Palace. This historic archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Rocca A Mare Fortress, a must-visit castle in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Heraklion Venetian Port, an increasingly popular marina. For a change of scene, check out Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting Morosini Fountain. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Natural History Museum Of Crete, yet another curiosity-inducing attraction in Heraklion.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Swing Thing, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Stone Project is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tita Briki is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Heraklion and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Crete!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Rethymno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rethymno. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heraklion, including a monastery, a castle, a monument, a park, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Arkadi Monastery. This intriguing monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Venetian Fortezza Castle located in Heraklion for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rimondi Fountain. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Rethymnon Municipal Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park. Next up is Guora Gate, a highly recommended historical landmark.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rethymno. Rethymno offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Rethymno, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at Agrimia Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lemonokipos Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rethymno.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Antika Irish Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rethymno. Monitor Art Café is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rethymno, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your adventure at Holy Monastery Of Piso Preveli. This underrated monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the peaceful wonders of Preveli Beach, a must-see beach in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Kourtaliotiko Gorge. This often recommended canyon offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Big Waterfall, where you can take in majestic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to The Lion Fountain. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rethymno's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Noble, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, PAGLIACCIO beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Queens Room Club Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rethymno tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bonobo Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Store 311, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

On day 5 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chania, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Start by visiting Kastélli, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Old Venetian Port Of Chania, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned marina renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Rethymno by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Presentation Of The Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church. This photogenic church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Rethymno experience. We also recommend visiting Greek National Football Team Museum, a beloved museum. Nearby, you'll also find Old Chania Market, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at To Maridaki, 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 Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, 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 Apokoronas, a hidden gem nestled in Chania. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vazaki, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Emprime provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Chania for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Ethnikos Drumos Samarias. This underrated national park is a visually striking place to see in Chania. Continue your discovery at Lighthouse Of Chania, a visually striking lighthouse with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Chania, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sabbionara Bastion. This often recommended monument offers a historic encounter with Chania. Next, make your way to Eleftherios Venizelos House to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Tampakaria, an often recommended sightseeing destination 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 Chania.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Chania's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Plaka, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KAIKI is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Nama Restobar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Peacock Tail Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Psichron. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Greek Mythology Thematic Park. This increasingly popular amusement park is an eye-catching place to see in Agios Nikolaos. Continue your discovery at Cave Of Zeus, a respected cave with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Agios Nikolaos, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cave Of Diktaion Andron. This curiosity-inducing cave offers an enchanting encounter with Agios Nikolaos. 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 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 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Route 66 Rock Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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