Exploring the Best of Crete: A Week-long Itinerary in Greece

Day 1: Arrive in Heraklion

Heraklion, Greece on April 23, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Peskesi

Start your Cretan adventure with a delicious breakfast at Peskesi, known for its traditional Cretan dishes using local ingredients.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Explore one of the most significant archaeological museums in Greece, showcasing artifacts from the Minoan civilization.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at To Stachi

Enjoy a hearty lunch at To Stachi, specializing in Cretan cuisine with vegan options available.
EUR20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Palace of Knossos

Visit the ruins of the Palace of Knossos, an ancient Minoan palace known for its complex architecture and historical significance.
EUR15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Avli

Dine at Avli, where you can savor local flavors in a cozy atmosphere, with an extensive wine list.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Rethymno Exploration

Rethymno, Greece on April 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Aigre Doux

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with stunning views at this quaint café known for its pastries and fresh coffee.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Rethymno Old Town

Wander through the picturesque streets of Rethymno's Old Town, filled with shops, cafes, and Venetian architecture.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Avli

Treat yourself to modern Cretan dishes at Avli, a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
EUR25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Fortress of Rethymno

Explore the impressive fortress that overlooks the old town, offering spectacular views and historical insights.
EUR4, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at To Pigadi

Enjoy a traditional Cretan meal at To Pigadi, known for its local seafood and inviting atmosphere.
EUR28, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Beach Day at Preveli

Preveli, Greece on April 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation before hitting the beach.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Preveli Beach

Relax at Preveli Beach, known for its scenic beauty and palm forest, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The River

Grab lunch at The River, a casual spot near the beach that serves fresh salads and grilled meats.
EUR15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Palm Forest

Take a leisurely stroll through the unique palm forest surrounding Preveli Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taverna To Zeytin

Dinner at this family-run tavern featuring local delicacies and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Adventure Around Plakias

Plakias, Greece on April 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Taverna Plakias

Start your day with a traditional Cretan breakfast featuring local cheeses and fresh fruit.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Plakias Beach

Spend the morning relaxing and swimming at Plakias Beach, known for its crystal clear waters.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Taverna Almyra

Enjoy fresh seafood and Rhodian specialties at Taverna Almyra, with stunning seafront views.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Local Area

Take a drive to nearby attractions or hiking trails around Plakias.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taverna Karavostasi

End your day with delicious local dishes at Taverna Karavostasi, known for its homey feel.
EUR21, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Charming Chania

Chania, Greece on April 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kula Cafe

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast with homemade pastries and Greek coffee at Kula Cafe.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Chania Old Town and Harbour

Stroll through the charming old town of Chania with its colorful buildings and beautiful harbor.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Bodega

Have lunch at La Bodega, famous for its delicious tapas and local wines.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Maritime Museum

Discover the maritime history of Chania at this informative museum located in the old harbor.
EUR4, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tamam

Experience local specialties with a modern twist at Tamam, a well-regarded restaurant in Chania.
EUR30, 2 hours

Day 6: Monastery Visit

Chania, Greece on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Well of the Turk

Start your day at this vibrant café known for its unique blend of Cretan and Middle Eastern breakfast options.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Katholiko Monastery

Visit this historical monastery nestled in a beautiful gorge, which offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Roka

Enjoy lunch at Roka, offering traditional Cretan cuisine in a charming setting.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hiking in the Akrotiri Peninsula

Take a leisurely hike in the scenic Akrotiri Peninsula, known for its beautiful views of the sea.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kostas

Finish your day with dinner at Kostas, offering hearty local dishes in a family-friendly environment.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Relax at Elafonissi

Elafonissi, Greece on April 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before heading to the beach.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Elafonissi Beach

Spend the day at Elafonissi Beach, famous for its pink sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming.
Free, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sunset Beach Bar

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the beach bar, offering refreshing drinks and light snacks.
EUR15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Take the afternoon to continue relaxing on the beach, enjoying the sun and scenery.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taverna Elafonissi

Indulge in fresh seafood and local dishes at Taverna Elafonissi overlooking the beach.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Departure Day

Heraklion, Greece on April 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mokka Coffee

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast at Mokka Coffee, renowned for its excellent coffee and pastries.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-minute Shopping in Heraklion

Take some time to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs in Heraklion before your departure.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Olive Green

Enjoy a final lunch featuring Mediterranean specialties at Olive Green.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Return Rental Car and Departure

Return your rental car and prepare for your departure flight.
Free, 2 hours