9-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.

Today’s agenda in Heraklion includes an archeological site, a castle, a marina, a church, a museum, a monument and much more! Knossos Palace is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Rocca A Mare Fortress, an often recommended castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Heraklion Venetian Port, an awe-inspiring marina, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Heraklion. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. If you’re looking for more, Natural History Museum Of Crete is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Fortifications Of Heraklion, a place of culturally significant interest in the village.

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

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 Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a highly-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're eager to try something different, consider Athali Cretan Cuisine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Home. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Swing Thing stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Stone Project offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tita Briki is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rethymno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rethymno, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heraklion today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Venetian Fortezza Castle. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rimondi Fountain and learn what makes this standout monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Neratze Mosque. After exploring the mosque, head to Rethymnon Municipal Garden. This beloved park is a highlight in Heraklion. As your day continues, stop by Guora Gate, known for its standout features.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Rethymno. If you're in the mood for something new, try Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Lemonokipos Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rethymno.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Rethymno and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Crete!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you will explore Chania, 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 Chania. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Rethymno. Your adventure starts at Eleftherios Venizelos House, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Greek National Football Team Museum. This locally appreciated museum is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rethymno's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Old Chania Market. This historic market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Chania. Chania 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 Chania. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at To Maridaki, a top-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vazaki is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Emprime. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Chania. You’ll stay in Chania for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Lighthouse Of Chania. This up-and-coming lighthouse is a history-steeped place to see in Chania. Continue your discovery at Sabbionara Bastion, an awe-inspiring monument 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 Kastélli. This up-and-coming archeological site offers a picture-perfect encounter with Chania. Next, make your way to Old Venetian Port Of Chania to add another highlight to your day. 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.

As you explore more of Chania, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Salis, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Well of the Turk. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Chania tonight.

Keep the evening going at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Barbarossa, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Crete!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Crete. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Krasion and Psichron. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heraklion, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Agios Nikolaos, including a monastery, an amusement park, and a cave. Start your day at Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This stunning monastery is an increasingly popular place to see in Agios Nikolaos. Then, wander over to Greek Mythology Thematic Park. If gorgeous sites excite you, this amusement park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cave Of Zeus. This history-steeped cave is a favorite among visitors.

Agios Nikolaos offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cave Of Diktaion Andron is a frequently visited spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Merastri beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Petoúsēs. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Route 66 Rock Bar, known for its lively atmosphere.

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