Relaxed 14-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heraklion, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Crete are extraordinary.

No visit to Heraklion is complete without Rocca A Mare Fortress. This frequently visited castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Holy Cathedral Temple Of Saint Titus, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Heraklion, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Morosini Fountain. This popular monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Natural History Museum Of Crete is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Fortifications Of Heraklion and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most underrated attractions.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Crete. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Heraklion and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Swing Thing, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stone Project provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tita Briki offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip in 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!

Arkadi Monastery is an increasingly popular monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Rethymno and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rethymno beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Rethymnon Municipal Garden, an often recommended park known for its mesmerizing features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Guora Gate, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Neratze Mosque and uncover the details of this heritage-rich mosque. Make sure to also explore Rimondi Fountain, an often recommended monument.

In Chania, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Crete.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Chania has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at To Maridaki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Apokoronas is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Chania’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Crete.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vazaki, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Emprime also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Crete!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Crete, you’ll go deep into Chania, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Chania, and meet locals along the way!

Akti Kountourioti is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Chania, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Visiting Old Venetian Port Of Chania is always a good idea. This notable marina is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the noteworthy wonders of Fountain, a must-see monument 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 Old Chania Market. This popular market offers an enriching experience.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Crete more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Chania offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 Chania, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salis, a highly-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Nymphes Coffee & Dessert, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Well of the Turk. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Chania.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Barbarossa offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Day 6 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Crete lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Myli. By evening, drive toward the Rethymno, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Myli.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Myli. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Savor the day by heading to Myli, Rethymno, an underrated canyon that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Myli, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rethymno. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Savor the day by heading to Venetian Fortezza Castle, an interesting castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Iroon Politechniou Square, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

You'll be staying in Rethymno on this laid-back road trip through Crete. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 Rethymno, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're eager to try something different, consider Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lemonokipos Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno 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 evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Antika Irish Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Monitor Art Café provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Crete, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rethymno and visit amazing attractions in Axos and Zoniana, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Rethymno, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Axos. This car ride takes around 57 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Wooden Sculptures Museum, an up-and-coming museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Moyseio Xulogluptikis Axoy and admire its respected features.

Zoniana’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Axos behind. This drive usually takes around 5 min. Zoniana welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Sfendoni Cave In Zoniana is a worthwhile cave we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rethymno.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Noble, an iconic dining spot in Rethymno. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of PAGLIACCIO, a popular restaurant in Rethymno. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Queens Room Club Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Rethymno. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Rethymno and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bonobo Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Store 311. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe, another top-rated place in the area.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!

Your relaxed road trip in Crete continues on day 8 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Crete better by exploring the top attractions of Rethymno and beyond. With 1 night left in Rethymno, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you decide to explore Asomatos on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Preveli Palm Forest, an often recommended beach that everyone visiting Asomatos should see. Next, head to Preveli Beach. This romantic beach is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Asomatos, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rethymno. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Savor the day by heading to Kourtaliotiko Gorge, an often recommended canyon that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Big Waterfall, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

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

Exploring the food culture in Rethymno 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 dining experience at Othonas, a popular restaurant in Rethymno. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rethymno at Hasika, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Kapilio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rethymno 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 Rethymno. The bars in Rethymno make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Rethymno as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Crete!

Day 13 of your relaxed road trip across Crete offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Psichron and drive in the direction of Krasion for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Heraklion, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Psichron. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cave Of Zeus, an increasingly popular cave known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Cave Of Diktaion Andron, an intriguing cave.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Krasion. This car ride takes around 25 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, an often recommended monastery in Krasion. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Crete as you make your way to Heraklion. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 dining experience at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a popular restaurant in Heraklion. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heraklion at Merastri, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Petoúsēs. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heraklion tonight.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Route 66 Rock Bar, a prime location for a drink.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Crete!