9-Day Crete road trip Starting from Heraklion to Sitia

A small village with unique beaches and famous resort of Agia Pelagia, Heraklion, Greece
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
9 days & 8 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
8 nights included
Car rental
9 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 9-day road trip through Crete.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Crete. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 7 nights in Heraklion and 1 night in Sitia, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Crete. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Heraklion, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, and Sitia. We'll help you experience the best 9 days in Crete you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Heraklion, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Crete, including the stunning Venetian Port of Heraklion and Morosini Fountain.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Crete. From the magnificent Heraklion Archaeological Museum to the breathtaking Knossos Palace and Rocca a Mare Fortress, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. As you hit the open road and drive through Heraklion, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, and Sitia, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Crete. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Crete.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Crete. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Crete.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Crete.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Crete has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Crete. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 8 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 8 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Crete extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Crete fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Crete today!

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Included

Hotel, 8 nights
Rental car, 9 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Crete - region in GreeceHeraklion / 7 nights
Photo of Beach at Kalo Nero village in Sitia municipalitySitia / 1 night
Photo of aerial view of Malia beach and small island with Church of Transfiguration, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.Malia
Photo of aerial view of the port in Agios Nikolaos, famous travel destination of Crete, Greece.Agios Nikolaos

Map

Attractions

Minoan Palace of Knossos, 4th Community of Heraklion - South, Municipality of Heraklion, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceKnossos Palace
Photo of the Heraklion Historical Museum is a museum located in Heraklion city on Crete island, Greece.Heraklion Archaeological Museum
CRETAquarium Θαλασσόκοσμος, Municipality of Anopolis, District of Chersonissos, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceCRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
Photo of Venetian Morosini Fountain in the Lions square, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.Morosini Fountain
Spinalonga fortress, Municipality of Elounta, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceSpinalonga fortress
Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare, 1st Community of Heraklion - Central, Municipality of Heraklion, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceΕνετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
Watercity Waterpark Crete
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceΕνετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
AMAZONAS PARK, Municipality of Neapolis, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceAMAZONAS PARK
photo of Front view of the cathedral of St. Minas Heraklion, Greece.Church of Agios Minas
Plaka Beach, Municipality of Vrouchas, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreecePlaka Beach
Natural History Museum of Crete
Monastery Panagia Kera Kardiotissa, Municipality of Kera, District of Chersonissos, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceMonastery Panagia Kera Kardiotissa
Church of Agios Titos, 1st Community of Heraklion - Central, Municipality of Heraklion, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceChurch of Agios Titos
Platanus Tree
Cretan Olive Oil Farm, Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceCretan Olive Oil Farm
photo of view of Σπιναλόνγκα, Agios Nikolaos, Greece.Σπιναλόνγκα
Grave Monument of Kazantzakis, 4th Community of Heraklion - South, Municipality of Heraklion, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceGrave Monument of Kazantzakis
photo of Historical Museum of Crete, Heraklion, Greece.Historical Museum of Crete
photo of view of Milatos cave,Municipality of Milatos greece.Milatos Cave
photo of view of Venetian fortress Koules in Heraklion, Crete, Greece.Venetian Walls of Heraklion
photo of view of panagia kera, a church at Crete, Greece.Panagia Kera
Abduction of Europe, Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceAbduction of Europe
Venetian Loggia, 1st Community of Heraklion - Central, Municipality of Heraklion, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceVenetian Loggia
Heraklion Lighthouse, 1st Community of Heraklion - Central, Municipality of Heraklion, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceHeraklion Lighthouse
Fountain Karavola
Safari Club Crete, Municipality of Malia, District of Chersonissos, Heraklion Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceSafari Club Crete
Almiros, Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceAlmiros
Windmills Poros Elounda, Municipality of Elounta, District of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi Regional Unit, Region of Crete, GreeceWindmills Poros Elounda
Kornarou Square
EscapeRooms Gr

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – Heraklion - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 – Heraklion - arrival day

  • Heraklion - Arrival day
  • More
  • Ενετικό Λιμάνι Ηρακλείου
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Crete begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Heraklion. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 7 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Heraklion has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Venetian Port of Heraklion. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,727 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

Heraklion also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Heraklion is Swing Thing. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 512 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 9-day vacation in Crete!

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Experiences

Day 2 – Heraklion

Day 2

Day 2 – Heraklion

  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 1 km, 13 min

  • Church of Agios Titos
  • Venetian Loggia
  • Morosini Fountain
  • EscapeRooms Gr
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Heraklion has to offer. Cherish the 6 nights you have left in Heraklion by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Heraklion. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Heraklion, like the extraordinary Church of Agios Titos. This attraction is a church and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,172 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Heraklion is the spectacular Venetian Loggia. This attraction is a must-see tourist destination and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 830 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing Morosini Fountain. This fountain has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,456 visitors.

EscapeRooms. Gr is another stop you might want to add to your itinerary. This best-rated sightseeing destination is a popular destination among visitors in Heraklion. Rated at an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 445 visitors, it’s one many travelers find worthy a visit.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, then consider Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Heraklion Archaeological Museum is an archaeological museum and popular attraction in Heraklion. More than 27,621 visitors have rated this place an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. If you visit this attraction, you’ll be one of 104,717 people who do so each year.

Your discovery of Heraklion does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Heraklion on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Crete, be sure to eat at Apiri greek_eatery, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Heraklion. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,190 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, Xalavro Open Bar is one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,916 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Heraklion!

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Experiences

Day 3 – Heraklion

Day 3

Day 3 – Heraklion

  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 22 km, 1 hour 36 min

  • Heraklion Lighthouse
  • Venetian Walls of Heraklion
  • Church of Agios Minas
  • Grave Monument of Kazantzakis
  • Knossos Palace
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip across Crete is another day in the magnificent Heraklion. You now have 5 nights left in Heraklion. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Heraklion offers plenty for you to see and do, and your hotel will be conveniently located near several of the area's best attractions.

One of the best travel destinations you can travel to in the city of Heraklion is the stunning Heraklion Lighthouse. This has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 720 visitors.

You could also spend some time visiting the spectacular Fortifications of Heraklion in the city of Heraklion. This attraction is a city walls and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,118 visitors.

Another attraction you could visit in the city of Heraklion is the incredible Church of Agios Minas and Pantanassa. This attraction is an eastern orthodox church and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,606 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the fantastic Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. This top-tier point of interest and travel destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,670 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the outstanding Knossos Palace. This must-see tourist destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 42,799 visitors.

Today you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a popular tour. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of options for top-rated tours and activities in Heraklion you could sign up for on this day of your vacation. Choose among the best tours before or after booking.

When it’s time to eat, the city of Heraklion has restaurants and bars to fit all budgets.

Toast to another amazing day in the city of Heraklion!

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Experiences

Day 4 – Heraklion

Day 4

Day 4 – Heraklion

  • Heraklion
  • More

Drive 4 km, 40 min

  • Ενετικό Φρούριο Rocca a Mare
  • Historical Museum of Crete
  • Natural History Museum of Crete
  • Fountain Karavola
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip across Crete is another day in the magnificent Heraklion. You now have 4 nights left in Heraklion. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Heraklion offers plenty for you to see and do, and your hotel will be conveniently located near several of the area's best attractions.

One of the best travel destinations you can travel to in the city of Heraklion is the stunning Rocca a Mare Fortress. This has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,392 visitors.

You could also spend some time visiting the spectacular Historical Museum of Crete in the city of Heraklion. This attraction is a museum and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,448 visitors.

Another attraction you could visit in the city of Heraklion is the incredible Natural History Museum of Crete. This attraction is a natural history museum and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,734 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the fantastic Fountain Karavola. This best-rated sightseeing destination and travel destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 814 visitors.

Today you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a popular tour. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of options for top-rated tours and activities in Heraklion you could sign up for on this day of your vacation. Choose among the best tours before or after booking.

When it’s time to eat, the city of Heraklion has restaurants and bars to fit all budgets.

We recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Heraklion, The Home. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 555 customers.

Toast to another amazing day in the city of Heraklion!

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Experiences

Day 5 – Anissaras and Heraklion

Day 5

Day 5 – Anissaras and Heraklion

  • Heraklion
  • Malia
  • More

Drive 101 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos
  • Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
  • Monastery Panagia Kera Kardiotissa
  • More

On day 5 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. You still have 3 nights left in Heraklion.

Today you'll explore the city of Anissaras. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This incredible attraction is a place of worship and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,727 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Crete to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Heraklion.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion, Veranda. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,111 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like News Cafe. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 941 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Crete!

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Experiences

Day 6 – Anissaras and Heraklion

Day 6

Day 6 – Anissaras and Heraklion

  • Heraklion
  • Malia
  • More

Drive 99 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Platanus Tree
  • Safari Club Crete
  • Watercity Waterpark Crete
  • More

On day 6 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. You still have 2 nights left in Heraklion.

Today you'll explore the city of Anissaras. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Platanus Tree. This incredible attraction is a must-see tourist destination and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,059 visitors.

Safari Club Crete is another popular attraction you'll visit in the city of Anissaras. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 586 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Crete to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Heraklion.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Heraklion, like Érganos. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,634 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Heraklion, PLASTELINA. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 913 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Indigo. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 809 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Crete!

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Experiences

Day 7 – Agios Nikolaos and Sitia

Day 7

Day 7 – Agios Nikolaos and Sitia

  • Sitia
  • Agios Nikolaos
  • More

Drive 153 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • AMAZONAS PARK
  • Plaka Beach
  • Σπιναλόνγκα
  • Spinalonga fortress
  • Windmills Poros Elounda
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip through Crete gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Agios Nikolaos and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Sitia. You will stay in Sitia for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Agios Nikolaos is the amazing Plaka Beach. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,924 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible island, Spinalonga. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,880 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Agios Nikolaos is the outstanding Spinalonga fortress. This popular must-see tourist destination and travel destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,173 visitors.

The spectacular Windmills Poros Elounda is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating best-rated sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 523 visitors.

You can make the most of your new day in Agios Nikolaos by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Crete. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Sitia, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Mitsakakis, one of the best restaurants in the city of Sitia. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

Locals also recommend Kritiko Spiti as one of the best restaurants in the city of Sitia. Kritiko Spiti is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 928 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Sitia is To limani. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 378 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Crete!

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Experiences

Day 8 – Agios Nikolaos and Heraklion

Day 8

Day 8 – Agios Nikolaos and Heraklion

  • Heraklion
  • Agios Nikolaos
  • More

Drive 164 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • Panagia Kera
  • Almiros
  • Abduction of Europe
  • Cretan Olive Oil Farm
  • Milatos Cave
  • More

As you rise to greet the dawn on day 8 of your epic road trip in Crete, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Agios Nikolaos. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Heraklion. You’ll stay in Heraklion for 1 night. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Agios Nikolaos’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Agios Nikolaos, start your day with a visit to the amazing Church of Panagia Kera. This much-appreciated church building and attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 909 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Almiros. This park and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 552 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular The Abduction of Europe to make the most of your road trip across Crete. The spectacular The Abduction of Europe is a best-rated sightseeing destination that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 visitors.

The lovely Cretan Olive Oil Farm is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 1,877 visitors have left this museum average ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you feel like visiting another type of sight or don’t want to jump into the car quite yet, spend some time at the spectacular Milatos cave. This attraction is a cave rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,286 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Agios Nikolaos has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Heraklion. Heraklion offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Heraklion, the fantastic DISH BAR PARTY RESTAURANT. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 926 customers.

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Crete!

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Experiences

Day 9 – Heraklion - departure day

Day 9

Day 9 – Heraklion - departure day

  • Heraklion - Departure day
  • More
  • Kornarou Square
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in Crete is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Heraklion before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Kornarou Square is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Heraklion. This must-see tourist destination and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 485 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Heraklion and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Crete.

You’ll then say farewell to Heraklion. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Crete!

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Experiences

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