6-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Chania and Agios Nikolaos
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Crete on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Heraklion, Kallithea, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Neapoli, Kritsa, and Psichron. This road trip itinerary in Crete seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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, 1 night in Chania, and 2 nights 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 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 Old Chania Market.
As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Kallithea, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Neapoli, Kritsa, and Psichron, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Peskesi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Koukouvagia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Xalavro Open Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Indigo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Polytechneio Cafe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Garden also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Crete!
Day 2
- Heraklion
- Chania
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Drive 150 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Morosini Fountain
- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Knossos Palace
- Old Venetian Port of Chania
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heraklion, Kallithea, and Chania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chania, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heraklion today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Morosini Fountain. This photogenic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Heraklion Venetian Port and learn what makes this awe-inspiring marina unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Rocca A Mare Fortress. After exploring the castle, head to Knossos Palace. This locally renowned archeological site is a highlight in Heraklion. As your day continues, stop by Old Venetian Port Of Chania, known for its history-steeped features.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Chania. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!
Day 3
- Chania
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Old Chania Market
- Greek National Football Team Museum
- Lighthouse of Chania
- Cretan Olive Oil Farm
- Fisherman’s Crypt
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Chania and Agios Nikolaos. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Agios Nikolaos. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Greek National Football Team Museum, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Lighthouse Of Chania, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Cretan Olive Oil Farm. When you're finished at the farm, Fisherman’s Crypt awaits your visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos. Agios Nikolaos offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Agios Nikolaos's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ofou to lo, a top-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zygos Urban Garden. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Yanni's Rock Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Palazzo Cafe Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cafe Du Lac Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!
Day 4
- Agios Nikolaos
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Drive 31 km, 53 min
- Plaka Beach
- Spinalonga
- Spinalonga fortress
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Agios Nikolaos, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Agios Nikolaos today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Plaka Beach. This majestic beach will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Spinalonga and learn what makes this grand archeological site unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Spinalonga Fortress.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Agios Nikolaos's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Piazza Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Karnagio / Pita tou Riga, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Avli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bajamar - Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Agios Nikolaos and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Crete!
Day 5
- Agios Nikolaos
- Heraklion
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Drive 151 km, 3 hours 29 min
- AMAZONAS PARK
- Naos Panagias Keras
- Cave Of ZEUS
- Σπήλαιο Δικταίου Άντρου
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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 Neapoli, Kritsa, and Psichron. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heraklion, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Agios Nikolaos, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Amazonas Park, a locally appreciated zoo in the town. Then, head to Church Of Panagia Kera and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.
There are many interesting places to see in Agios Nikolaos, and when you are ready for more, go to Cave Of Zeus. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming respected spots of interest. After exploring the cave, visit the worthwhile Cave Of Diktaion Andron.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Heraklion, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Athali Cretan Cuisine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Home. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Swing Thing after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stone Project for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tita Briki is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Crete!
Day 6
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Church of Agios Minas
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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, we recommend visiting Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, a history-steeped church before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Crete and go on a shopping spree in Heraklion’s shopping center, the lively 1866 Street Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Crete.
Before you conclude your road trip in Crete, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Heraklion.
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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