Crete Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscape of Crete with the Crete Road Trip! This 5-day road trip starts and ends in Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and covers a distance of approximately 679km. The route leads you through some of the most beautiful towns in the region, such as Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, Chania, and Rethimno.
The best time to take this road trip is during spring and summer, when temperatures are mild and the days are long. Along the way, you will encounter some of the island's most famous historical sites, such as the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, the Venetian Castle of Rethymno, and the Samaria Gorge National Park. You will also have the opportunity to take in some of the most breathtaking landscapes and beaches in the Mediterranean.
The roads in Crete are generally in good condition and the route is mostly flat with some curvy and narrow roads. However, due to the beautiful scenery and the numerous attractions, you will want to take your time and enjoy the trip. The Crete Road Trip offers an extraordinary experience and memories that will last a lifetime, and is suitable for drivers of all levels. Plus, it can be managed with a fair budget. So, hop in your car and get ready to explore the beauty of Crete!
5
number of days
679 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Heraklion
Distance 679 km
Driving time 13.3 h
Pace: modest
176.5 kWh
Airports
HER
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Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a must-see starting point for the Crete Road Trip. Located on the north coast of Crete, it is the largest city on the island and the fourth largest in Greece. Heraklion is home to many archaeological sites and museums, such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the most important archaeological collections in Europe. Here, visitors can explore the history of the Minoan civilization. Other sights to visit include Venetian fortifications, the Koules fortress, and the Church of St. Titus.
Heraklion is served by Heraklion International Airport (HER), which is the closest international airport. It is connected with direct flights to major European cities. Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to start the Crete Road Trip.
Heraklion is a vibrant city full of life, with many restaurants, shops, and cafes to explore. With its many historical and cultural sites, it is the perfect starting point to discover the beauty of Crete.
1
Heraklion
- Agios Nikolaos
Distance 63 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
16.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos! This 63km journey will take you fewer than 2 hours, and along the way you will find some of the most interesting places to visit.
Start off your trip in Heraklion, the largest city and the administrative capital of Crete. Here, you can explore the ancient ruins of the Venetian fortress, the Koules Castle, the Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum.
Continue your journey towards Agios Nikolaos, a charming town with many attractions. Visit the lake Voulismeni, the Folklore Museum, the archaeological site of Olous, and the archaeological museum. Don't forget to check out the beautiful beaches and the picturesque harbor.
Be aware that some sections of the road are narrow, so drive carefully! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Agios Nikolaos - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Agios Nikolaos - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Agios Nikolaos
- Kato Zakros
Distance 111 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: modest
28.9 kWh
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Embark on a 111km road trip from Agios Nikolaos to Kato Zakros and explore the most interesting places in these locations. With a driving time of under 3 hours, you can enjoy a scenic road as you make your way through the winding roads and narrow sections of the route. Along the way, make sure to visit the picturesque Agios Nikolaos, with its beautiful lake and Venetian architecture, and Kato Zakros, home to the ancient Minoan Palace. With its stunning beaches and ancient ruins, it is the perfect place to explore and take in the culture of the region. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the nearby caves and gorges offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don't miss out on this memorable road trip and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Kato Zakros - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Kato Zakros - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Kato Zakros
- Ierapetra
Distance 86 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
22.3 kWh
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Embark on a road-trip through the stunningly beautiful Kato Zakros to Ierapetra! This 86 km route will take you less than two hours to complete, and along the way you will be amazed by the scenic road. In some sections, the road is very winding, and in other sections it is narrow, so pay attention when driving. You will pass through several charming villages, so be sure to take a break and explore the local culture.
Kato Zakros is a great place to start your journey. Here you can explore the ruins of the Minoan Palace that dates back to the Bronze Age. After that, you can visit the nearby beach for a swim and a picnic.
Your next stop is Ierapetra, a port city with an ancient history. Here you can take a stroll through the old town and visit the Venetian Fortress. You can also explore the nearby archaeological sites, such as the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapytna.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Ierapetra - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Ierapetra
- Kokkinos Pirgos
Distance 120 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
31.2 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Ierapetra to Kokkinos Pirgos! This 120km journey will take you less than three hours to complete, and you'll be greeted with breathtaking views along the way. The road is winding in some sections, and narrow in others, so pay attention to the scenic road and enjoy the views! You'll pass by the beautiful beaches of Agia Fotia, Koutsounari, and Mochlos, where you can take a break and dip your toes in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. Once you reach Kokkinos Pirgos, you can explore the traditional village, with its cobbled streets, old churches, and traditional taverns. Be sure to also visit the nearby archaeological sites of Gournia and Palaikastro, where you can learn about the area's rich history. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Kokkinos Pirgos - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Kokkinos Pirgos
- Chania
Distance 156 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
40.7 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Kokkinos Pirgos to Chania! This 156 km drive will take you less than 4 hours, and you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful scenery in Greece. The winding roads of the countryside are sure to take your breath away, and the narrow sections will keep you on your toes. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore some of the most interesting places in the region.
In Kokkinos Pirgos, make sure to visit the Venetian Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. As you make your way to Chania, you'll pass through the villages of Kefali and Kolymbari, both of which have traditional Greek charm. When you reach Chania, you'll be able to explore the old town, the Venetian harbour, and the many picturesque beaches.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Chania - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Pikist
Chania - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Chania
- Rethimno
Distance 59 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
15.3 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Chania to Rethimno, a journey of 59 km that will take you less than two hours. As you drive, you will pass by some of the most fascinating sites of the Greek island of Crete.
The first stop is the enchanting town of Chania, a beautiful settlement of Venetian architecture and a lively harbor. Here you can take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, visit the Venetian Lighthouse and admire the exquisite churches.
As you continue your journey, you will drive through the picturesque villages of Vamos and Gavalohori with their traditional stone houses and lush gardens. Enjoy the stunning views of the Cretan countryside and take a moment to admire the majestic White Mountains.
The road will take you to the quaint village of Vrisses, where you can take a break and explore its old stone houses and the Venetian aqueduct. Be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road, as you make your way to Rethimno.
Finally, you will arrive at Rethimno, a beautiful town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture. Here you can explore the old city walls, the Venetian harbor and the archaeological museum. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road and explore the wonders of Chania and Rethimno!
Rethimno - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Rethimno - Greece - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Rethimno
- Heraklion
Distance 83 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
25.0 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Rethimno to Heraklion? This spectacular journey of 83km will take you less than 2 hours to complete. On the way, you will be delighted by the beautiful scenery of the area, so don't forget to take some pictures!
Start your trip from Rethimno and make a stop to explore the old Venetian port, the Fortezza, and the picturesque alleys of the old city. Then, continue your journey to Heraklion, the largest city and the capital of Crete. Once you arrive, visit the Historical Museum of Crete, the Venetian Loggia, and the Koules Fortress.
Make sure to take advantage of the amazing views of the city while you drive and also to take a few detours to explore the nearby villages.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Heraklion
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End your Crete Road Trip in Heraklion, a vibrant, historical port city in Greece! Heraklion is the capital of Crete and offers plenty of attractions and activities to make your final destination memorable. Visit the Venetian fortress of Koules, the old fortress of Kastelli, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, to experience the city’s long history. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Heraklion Prefecture in the nearby Koufonisi, a small island in the Aegean Sea with crystal clear waters. You can also explore the ancient Minoan archaeological sites of Knossos Palace, Phaistos Palace, and Malia Palace.
If you’re looking for some relaxation, Heraklion is home to many lovely beaches including Ammoudara Beach, Amoudara Beach, and Psaromoura Beach. Afterwards, take a stroll in the city’s old Venetian harbor and enjoy the many cafes, restaurants and bars. Heraklion also has a lively nightlife with plenty of taverns, bars and nightclubs.
Heraklion is served by the Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport (HER) which is only 5 km from the city center. The airport is the second largest in Greece and serves many domestic and international flights.
End your Crete Road Trip in Heraklion and enjoy the city’s unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty!
Crete Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Heraklion
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End:
Heraklion
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Distance:
679 km
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Stay:
5 days
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Getting there:
Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a spectacular 5-day Crete Road Trip, stretching over 679km of diverse terrain, where you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Crete's history, indulge in the island's breathtaking landscapes, and relax at pristine beaches. Your journey begins and concludes in Heraklion, the island's bustling capital, weaving through enchanting towns such as Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, Chania, and Rethymno, each brimming with unique charm and character.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Heraklion: Not just the capital, Heraklion is the gateway to the archaeological wonder of the Minoan Palace of Knossos, believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos.
- Agios Nikolaos: This coastal gem boasts the serene Voulismeni Lake, legends of a submerged city, and a waterfront lined with cafes and shops.
- Ierapetra: Known as the `bride of the Libyan Sea,` it's the southernmost town in Europe and offers a blend of sunny weather, Venetian architecture, and access to the exotic Chrissi Island.
- Chania: Wander through the maze of alleys in the Old Town, explore the maritime history in its Naval Museum, or savor local delicacies in the Venetian Harbor.
- Rethymno: Step back in time with the Fortezza Castle, explore the historical Rimondi Fountain, and stroll along the scenic harbor.
- Samaria Gorge National Park: Traverse one of Europe's longest gorges, a haven for hikers and nature lovers with its majestic cliffs and rare kri-kri goats.
Best Time to Go:
The prime seasons for the Crete Road Trip are spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, nature is in full bloom, and tourist crowds are thinner. The island's flora, including the endemic Cretan tulip, is a sight to behold during these months.
Potential Risks:
Drivers should exercise caution on Crete's mountainous Roads, which can be narrow, winding, and sometimes lack guardrails. It is essential to stay alert for unpredictable driving patterns from local drivers, and be prepared for varying Road conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The island's topography varies from coastal Roads to mountain passes, offering an exhilarating driving experience.
- Cultural attractions, including ancient ruins and Byzantine monasteries, are dotted along the route, inviting exploration.
- The journey can cater to various budgets, with a range of accommodations and dining options available.
A good choice for:
The Crete Road Trip is a journey through time and nature, promising an unforgettable adventure for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and beach-goers alike. As you traverse this majestic island, you'll find that every curve in the Road reveals a new story, every town has its own heartbeat, and the Cretan hospitality is as warm as the Mediterranean sun.
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