Relaxed 12-Day Crete Road Trip Starting from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos
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Description
Uncover the beauty of Crete on this 12-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Heraklion, Nea Alikarnassos, Skotino, Analipsi, Anopolis, Krasion, Epano Kera, Gournes, Limenas Chersonisou, Stalida, Agios Nikolaos, Malia, Kritsa, Schisma Eloundas, Milatos, Neapoli, and Karidi. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Crete at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Heraklion, Nea Alikarnassos, Skotino, Analipsi, Anopolis, Krasion, Epano Kera, Gournes, Limenas Chersonisou, Stalida, Agios Nikolaos, Malia, Kritsa, Schisma Eloundas, Milatos, Neapoli, and Karidi. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 7 nights in Heraklion, and 4 nights in Agios Nikolaos. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Crete.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Crete. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Heraklion, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 12-day journey across Crete and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Crete with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Crete.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Crete. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Knossos Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
Traveling leisurely through Crete means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Morosini Fountain. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Crete's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Crete.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Crete. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Crete's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Crete.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Crete. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 11 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 12 days of your self-drive road trip in Crete. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 12-day vacation in Crete and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete today!
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Day 1 – Heraklion - arrival day
- Heraklion - Arrival day
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- Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
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Your relaxed road trip through Greece starts when you reach the incredible city of Heraklion, where you'll stay for 6 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Heraklion and begin your adventure in Crete.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Heraklion Venetian Port. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,173 visitors.
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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Peskesi, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Avlogyros, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koukouvagia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Continue your lively evening at Indigo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Polytechneio Cafe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Garden ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Greece. Enjoy your first taste of Heraklion as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Heraklion, and Nea Alikarnassos
- Heraklion
- Nea Alikarnassos
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Drive 22 km, 1 hour 38 min
- Heraklion Lighthouse
- Fortifications of Heraklion
- Church of Agios Minas
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Knossos Palace
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On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Heraklion and visit amazing attractions in Nea Alikarnassos, and Heraklion destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 5 nights left in Heraklion. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Make Fortifications Of Heraklion your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this city walls an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,181 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,760 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this eastern orthodox church every year.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This archaeological museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,611 visitors. Up to 104,717 travelers come to Heraklion every year to see Heraklion Archaeological Museum with their own eyes.
When you’re finished at Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the perfect next stop is Knossos Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 45,087 reviews.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heraklion, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nea Alikarnassos may take around 27 min. Upon your arrival in Nea Alikarnassos, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Kick off the day at Heraklion Lighthouse, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 739 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Heraklion and your accommodation.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Heraklion, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Dine in style at Xalavro Open Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Athali Cretan Cuisine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
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.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Crete.
Day 3 – Heraklion
- Heraklion
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Drive 1 km, 17 min
- Church of Agios Titos
- Venetian Loggia
- Morosini Fountain
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Crete means 24 hours of making the best memories in Heraklion. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Heraklion. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Heraklion!
Take the opportunity to see Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,273 visitors.
Venetian Loggia is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 866 travelers.
Heraklion is also the home of Escaperooms. Gr. Around 455 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Morosini Fountain. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 22,185 reviews, a visit to this fountain is a great idea.
This day of your vacation in Heraklion is also your chance to admire Escape House. This must-visit point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 561 reviews.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Crete by joining a traveler-approved tour in Heraklion. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Heraklion that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Crete more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Heraklion to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Heraklion offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Home, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ουζερί του Τερζάκη από το 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Merastri. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heraklion tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Heraklion.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Route 66 Rock Bar, known for its lively atmosphere.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Heraklion can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Crete!
Day 4 – Heraklion
- Heraklion
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Drive 4 km, 40 min
- Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
- Historical Museum of Crete
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Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rocca A Mare Fortress. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,703 visitors.
Historical Museum Of Crete is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,531 visitors.
Natural History Museum Of Crete is also highly recommended by travelers. This natural history museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,866 visitors.
Fountain Karavola is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 825 reviews.
Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Crete. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Heraklion itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Heraklion has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Petoúsēs, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vourvourladikon, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apiri greek_eatery. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Heraklion and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Crete.
Day 5 – Heraklion, Skotino, Analipsi, and Anopolis
- Heraklion
- Skoteino
- Analipsi
- Anopolis
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Skotino cave
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Crete and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Skotino and beyond. With 2 nights left in Heraklion, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.
Skotino’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heraklion behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Skotino welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Drop by the renowned Skotino Cave. This popular cave has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 971 visitors.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Skotino, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Analipsi. This drive usually takes around 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Aposelemi Beach. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 475 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Analipsi, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Anopolis. Your travel time is around 21 min.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Watercity Waterpark Crete. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Anopolis, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,653 visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heraklion.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kuzina Casual Food, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ta Kalitera offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Casa Donato. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Heraklion and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!
Day 6 – Heraklion, Krasion, and Epano Kera
- Heraklion
- Krasion
- Epano Kera
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 53 min
- Monastery Panagia Kera Kardiotissa
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Krasion, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Krasion will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of Crete.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Krasion. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Μνημειακός Πλάτανος. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,771 visitors.
Next, make your way to Monumental Platanos. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 580 reviews.
After soaking in Krasion’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Epano Kera. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 5 min. When you arrive in Epano Kera, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,842 reviews.
Epano Kera’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Krasion behind. This drive usually takes around 5 min. Epano Kera welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Windmills Of Seli Ambelou. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 258 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Heraklion and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Crete, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Heraklion.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Hacienda. , a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Μεζεδοπωλείο "Η Αυλη" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Λίγο Κρασί Λίγο Θάλασσα is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heraklion.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Heraklion as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Crete with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete!
Day 7 – Heraklion, Gournes, Limenas Chersonisou, Stalida, and Agios Nikolaos
- Agios Nikolaos
- District of Chersonissos
- Limenas Chersonisou
- Stalida
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Drive 71 km, 1 hour 21 min
- CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Crete will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Crete, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heraklion, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gournes may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Gournes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
When you're ready to see some sights, Cretaquarium Thalassokosmos is a great place to start. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,905 visitors.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gournes, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Limenas Chersonisou may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Limenas Chersonisou, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Drop by the renowned Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. This popular aquarium has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,807 visitors.
Another unforgettable place to experience is Discoveringcrete.com. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 135 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.
Stalida’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Limenas Chersonisou behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Stalida welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Kick off the day at Παραλία Σταλίδος, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 400 reviews.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Agios Nikolaos. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Crete by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Agios Nikolaos has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ofou to lo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kimzu sea Lounge (EOT)? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zygos Urban Garden as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Agios Nikolaos.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Yanni's Rock Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Palazzo Cafe Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe Du Lac Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Agios Nikolaos as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Crete with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete!
Day 8 – Agios Nikolaos, Malia, and Limenas Chersonisou
- Agios Nikolaos
- Malia
- Limenas Chersonisou
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Drive 84 km, 1 hour 26 min
- Safari Club Crete
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On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Agios Nikolaos and visit amazing attractions in Malia, and Limenas Chersonisou destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 3 nights left in Agios Nikolaos. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
When you’ve had your share of Agios Nikolaos, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Malia. Your travel time is around 29 min.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Safari Club Crete, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 651 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Asterion Quads. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 26 travelers.
When you’ve had your share of Malia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Limenas Chersonisou. Your travel time is around 13 min.
Kick off the day at Acqua Plus, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,668 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Agios Nikolaos, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Piazza Cafe Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Karnagio / Pita tou Riga is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Avli. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Agios Nikolaos tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Agios Nikolaos’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Crete.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Alexandros Roof Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Peripou Coffeehouse | Live Music Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bajamar - Cocktail Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Crete!
Day 9 – Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, Schisma Eloundas, and Plaka
- Agios Nikolaos
- Kritsa
- Schisma Eloundas
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Naos Panagias Keras
- Windmills Poros Elounda
- Plaka Beach
- Spinalonga fortress
- Spinalonga
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 9, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Crete and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Kritsa and beyond. With 2 nights left in Agios Nikolaos, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Agios Nikolaos, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kritsa. This drive usually takes around 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Panagia Kera. This church building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 954 reviews.
Set your GPS to Schisma Eloundas and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Schisma Eloundas beckons with new experiences!
Drop by the renowned Windmills Poros Elounda. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 547 visitors.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Schisma Eloundas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plaka. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
When you're ready to see some sights, Plaka Beach is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,148 visitors.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Spinalonga Fortress. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,699 travelers.
We also recommend a stop at Spinalonga. The island has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,981 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Agios Nikolaos and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Agios Nikolaos offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the town.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ammoudi Club, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Piato? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Minos Palace Hotel & Suites as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Agios Nikolaos.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Agios Nikolaos.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Puerto Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Aquarius Cafe Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Agios Nikolaos.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!
Day 10 – Agios Nikolaos, Milatos, Neapoli, and Karidi
- Agios Nikolaos
- Milatos
- Neapoli
- Karidi
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Drive 82 km, 2 hours 7 min
- Milatos cave
- AMAZONAS PARK
- Areti Monastery
- More
On day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Crete, you’ll explore the area around Milatos, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Milatos will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of Crete.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Milatos. This car ride takes around 31 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Milatos Cave. This extraordinary cave is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,355 visitors.
Neapoli’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Milatos behind. This drive usually takes around 25 min. Neapoli welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
When you're ready to see some sights, Kremasta Monastery is a great place to start. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 420 visitors.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Amazonas Park. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,063 travelers.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Karidi, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Neapoli to Karidi may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Karidi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make Areti Monastery your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this place of worship an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 215 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Agios Nikolaos has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.
Don’t miss out on dining at To Potiraki, a top-rated dining destination in Agios Nikolaos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arodo Cafe Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Paradosiako. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Agios Nikolaos this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Agios Nikolaos and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Crete. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Crete tomorrow with new energy.
Day 11 – Agios Nikolaos, and Heraklion
- Heraklion
- Agios Nikolaos
- More
Drive 77 km, 1 hour 38 min
- Fisherman’s Crypt
- Abduction of Europe
- Almiros
- Cretan Olive Oil Farm
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Day 11 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Crete gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Agios Nikolaos. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Heraklion, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Treppe Mit Malerei Delphine. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 3.6 out of 5 stars in 8 reviews.
Next up is Fisherman’s Crypt. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 161 visitors.
Another top sightseeing recommendation is The Abduction Of Europe. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 814 reviews.
Almiros is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 590 reviews.
To continue your sightseeing, head over to Cretan Olive Oil Farm. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,001 reviews.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Heraklion in this laid-back road trip in Crete. You'll stay here for 1 night.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Crete. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Heraklion, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Savor the flavors at Veranda, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Veneto beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ntoré Gastronomy. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heraklion tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Heraklion. The bars in Heraklion make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Heraklion!
Day 12 – Heraklion - departure day
- Heraklion - Departure day
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- Grave Monument of Kazantzakis
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Day 12 of your relaxed road trip in Crete is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Heraklion.
On your last day in Crete, take time to indulge in shopping at Heraklion’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Heraklion is the remarkable Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,719 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Heraklion or just grab something light to keep you going.
Dine in style at Hari’s Creperiê Heraklion, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Érganos boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Heraklion and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Crete is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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