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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Heraklion, Kallithea, and Rethymno. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rethymno, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa is an essential stop in Heraklion. This beloved church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Natural History Museum Of Crete, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Heraklion Venetian Port, a frequently visited marina. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Rocca A Mare Fortress.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kallithea. This car ride takes around 18 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Knossos Palace, a well-known archeological site known for its breathtaking features.

After soaking in Kallithea’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rethymno. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive in Rethymno, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Venetian Fortezza Castle, a popular castle that everyone visiting Rethymno should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rethymno. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Agrimia Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lemonokipos Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rethymno tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Antika Irish Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Monitor Art Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

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

Enjoy all that Rimondi Fountain has to offer. This is a frequently visited monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Guora Gate, a beloved historical landmark in Rethymno.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rethymnon Municipal Garden.

After soaking in Rethymno’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mouri. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Mouri, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Kournas, an underrated lake that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mouri and set your GPS to Chania. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Chania, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Old Venetian Port Of Chania, a locally renowned marina that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Chania, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Chania 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 Chania.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vazaki, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Emprime. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Falasarna and Chania. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Chania, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Lighthouse Of Chania is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic lighthouse is sure to impress. Next on your list is Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited monastery renowned for its picture-perfect features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Falasarna. This drive usually takes around 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2, a curiosity-inducing beach in Falasarna. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Seitan Limania, an often recommended beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Salis, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Nymphes Coffee & Dessert offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Well of the Turk is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chania.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Barbarossa is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Crete!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Crete, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Chania, Eleytherna, and Melidoni. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heraklion, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Old Chania Market. This photogenic market is a well-known place to see in Chania. Then, wander over to Ancient Theater Of Aptera. If stunning sites excite you, this archeological site will be right up your alley.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Arkadi Monastery, an increasingly popular monastery that everyone visiting Chania should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Melidoni. This car ride takes around 28 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ancient Eleutherna. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!