9-Day Crete Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Heraklion traveling west to Rethymno and Chania

On day 2 of your road trip in Crete, you’ll start and end your day in Heraklion, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Heraklion, there’s no need to rush. Experience Kallithea and Heraklion to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Make time for Fortifications Of Heraklion, a frequently visited monument that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Natural History Museum Of Crete, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Church Of Agios Minas And Pantanassa. This church is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Heraklion at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the intriguing Rocca A Mare Fortress. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Nikos Kazantzakis Grave, a place of standout interest in Heraklion.

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.

Savor the day by heading to Knossos Palace, an interesting archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fabrica Espresso Bar & Food, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Athali Cretan Cuisine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Home. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heraklion.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Swing Thing, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stone Project offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tita Briki provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 Rethymno. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rethymno, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Arkadi Monastery, a curiosity-inducing monastery that everyone visiting Rethymno should see.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rethymno.

Venetian Fortezza Castle is a notable castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rimondi Fountain, a noteworthy monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Iroon Politechniou Square, an eye-catching public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Rethymnon Municipal Garden, an instagrammable and truly unique park. End your sightseeing at Guora Gate, an underrated historical landmark that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Agrimia Restaurant, 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 Paradosiako Kafeneio Taverna Alekos, 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 Lemonokipos Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time 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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Crete!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rethymno, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Asomatos is brimming with adventures.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Preveli Palm Forest, 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. Next, head to Preveli Beach and admire its mesmerizing features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rethymno, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Asomatos to Rethymno may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rethymno, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Kourtaliotiko Gorge, an up-and-coming 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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rethymno. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Noble, a top-rated dining destination in Rethymno. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider PAGLIACCIO, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Queens Room Club Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rethymno this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bonobo Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Store 311, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Barrio The Neighbourhood Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Crete!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Crete. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Kalyves and Chania. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Chania, where you'll spend 3 nights.

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 Kalyves. Your travel time is around 41 min.

Savor the day by heading to Koumos, an often recommended sculpture garden that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Chania, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kalyves to Chania may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chania, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Greek National Football Team Museum. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Old Chania Market. This interesting market is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at To Maridaki, a highly-rated dining destination in Chania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine - Arismari, Apo Tin Kritiki Gi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Apokoronas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chania this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vazaki, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Emprime provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Crete!

Day 6 of your road trip across Crete promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Chania. You have 2 nights left in Chania. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Chania is brimming with adventures.

No visit to Chania is complete without Holy Trinity (agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery. This underrated monastery is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eleftherios Venizelos House, another must-visit attraction.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Crete. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chania. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Aeriko - Aeriko Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Barbarossa is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Puerto Coffee Food & Cocktails ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Crete!

Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Crete. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Falasarna and Tsoyroyniana. With 1 night to stay in Chania, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Chania, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Falasarna. This drive usually takes around 58 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Falasarna is Falasarna-paxeia Ammos 2, a locally appreciated beach that draws attention for its romantic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tsoyroyniana. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Topolia Gorge, a beloved canyon in Tsoyroyniana. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Cave Of Agia Sofia. This increasingly popular cave is a top recommendation in the area.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Elafonisi. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the beach before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Plaka, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KAIKI. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Chania tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Block 38 Cafe Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Nama Restobar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Peacock Tail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Crete. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Chania and Mouri. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heraklion, where will spend 1 night.

Start your day at Old Venetian Port Of Chania. This awe-inspiring marina is an interesting place to see in Chania. Then, wander over to Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko Froyrio Firka. If instagrammable sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Lighthouse Of Chania. This visually striking lighthouse is a favorite among visitors.

Chania offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ancient Theater Of Aptera is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Set your GPS to Mouri and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Mouri beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Kournas and explore the mesmerizing features.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heraklion. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at oyzeri toy Terzaki apo to 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978, a top-rated dining destination in Heraklion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Merastri, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Petoúsēs. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heraklion this evening.

Keep the evening going at Route 66 Rock Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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