5-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion to Rethymno and Chania

On day 2 of your road trip in Crete, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rethymno, where you will stay for 1 night.

Experience Heraklion Venetian Port, an up-and-coming marina in the city. Then, head to Rocca A Mare Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant castle.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Heraklion and set your GPS to Kallithea. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 18 min. Upon reaching Kallithea, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Knossos Palace, a well-known archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Rethymno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rethymno beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Rethymno is Venetian Fortezza Castle, a captivating castle that draws attention for its majestic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rimondi Fountain, a photogenic monument that stands out in the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Rethymno. Rethymno offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Rethymno is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Rethymno.

Make sure to reserve a table at Agrimia Restaurant, 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 Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, 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 Lemonokipos 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Antika Irish Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Monitor Art Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Crete includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Chania. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chania, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Rethymno, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Chania. Your travel time is around 1 hour 1 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Eleftherios Venizelos House and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Lighthouse Of Chania, another highlight in Chania. When you’re done exploring the lighthouse, continue to Kastélli, an awe-inspiring archeological site.

Nearby, you will also find Old Venetian Port Of Chania. This well-known marina is a top place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chania. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Chania, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at To Maridaki, a top-rated dining spot in Chania. If you're in the mood for something new, try Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Apokoronas. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Chania.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vazaki, known for its lively atmosphere. Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Emprime offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Crete.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Chania and Meleses. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Let Old Chania Market set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this standout market before continuing your journey. Greek National Football Team Museum is your next stop. This locally appreciated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Chania.

Set your GPS to Meleses and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Meleses beckons with new experiences!

Domaine Paterianakis- Ktima Paterianaki is a worthwhile winery we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heraklion's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Athali Cretan Cuisine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Home. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heraklion.

Continue your lively evening at Swing Thing, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stone Project is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tita Briki ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Heraklion and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Crete.