4-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-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 2 nights in Heraklion and 1 night in Rethymno. 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 Old Venetian Port Of Chania are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Heraklion Archaeological Museum, learn more about the unique Morosini Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Venetian Fortezza Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Rethymno, and Chania, 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!
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Day 1
- Heraklion - Arrival day
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- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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Say hello to Heraklion! Your exciting road trip through Greece is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Heraklion for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 Archaeological Museum, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Heraklion. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Peskesi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Koukouvagia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Xalavro Open Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Indigo, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Polytechneio Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Garden provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Crete!
Day 2
- Heraklion
- Rethymno
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Knossos Palace
- Venetian Fortezza Castle
- Rimondi Venetian Fountain
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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.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the increasingly popular Heraklion Venetian Port, a history-steeped marina in Heraklion. Next, go to Rocca A Mare Fortress.
After visiting Heraklion Venetian Port and Rocca A Mare Fortress, have a stroll along Heraklion's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Knossos Palace. This picture-perfect archeological site offers a unique experience. Venetian Fortezza Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Rimondi Fountain, one of the most photogenic places to visit in Heraklion.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rethymno. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rethymno. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Antika Irish Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Monitor Art Café also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!
Day 3
- Rethymno
- Heraklion
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Eleftherios Venizelos' House
- Lighthouse of Chania
- Firka Venetian Fortress
- Old Venetian Port of Chania
- Greek National Football Team Museum
- Old Chania Market
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On day 3 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 Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Rethymno covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a lighthouse, a castle, a marina, a market and much more! Start your adventure at Eleftherios Venizelos House. This underrated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Lighthouse Of Chania, a must-see lighthouse in the city.
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 Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka. This locally appreciated castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Greek National Football Team Museum and Old Chania Market. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
As you explore more of Heraklion, 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.
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.
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.
Say good night to Heraklion and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Crete!
Day 4
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Morosini Fountain
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Day 4 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 Morosini Fountain. This captivating monument is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Crete unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Heraklion's best shopping area, Talos Plaza. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Crete.
Before you conclude your road trip in Crete, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Heraklion.
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.
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!
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