Explore the Best of Crete: A Weeklong Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Heraklion

Heraklion, Greece on April 23, 2025

9:00AM

Visit Knossos Palace

Explore the fascinating ruins of the Palace of Knossos, a significant archaeological site that provides insight into the Minoan civilization. It is one of the most important and well-known landmarks in Crete.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Peskesi

Enjoy a delicious traditional Cretan meal at Peskesi, renowned for its authentic dishes and locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss out on trying their slow-cooked lamb.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Discover a treasure trove of artifacts from the Minoan civilization at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the most significant museums in Greece.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening stroll in the Old Town

Take a leisure stroll through the charming streets of Heraklion's Old Town, filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at 7 Thalasses

Relish in fresh seafood at 7 Thalasses, where you can savor traditional coastal dishes with an amazing view of the harbor.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Rethymno Exploration

Rethymno, Greece on April 24, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Rethymno

Enjoy a scenic drive to Rethymno, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Fortezza

Explore the Fortezza, a Venetian fortress that offers stunning views of the sea and town. The architecture reflects the historical significance of Rethymno.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Avli Lounge

Indulge in a delightful lunch at Avli Lounge, known for its creative take on traditional Cretan cuisine.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Old Town

Wander through the picturesque Old Town of Rethymno, filled with narrow streets, lovely shops, and cozy cafes.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Rethymno Beach

Take some time to relax on Rethymno Beach, enjoying the sun and the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
FREE, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at To Pigadi

Enjoy a delightful dinner at To Pigadi, a highly-rated restaurant serving traditional Cretan dishes with a modern twist.
EUR22, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Beach Day at Preveli

Preveli Beach, Greece on April 25, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Preveli Beach

Depart early to Preveli Beach, known for its stunning palm forest and serene waters.
FREE, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Relax on Preveli Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the idyllic sands of Preveli Beach, where the river meets the sea. It's a unique spot perfect for sunbathing.
FREE, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Beach Taverna

Grab a delicious lunch at a nearby beach taverna, enjoying local fish and seafood dishes while taking in the beautiful views.
EUR15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Preveli Monastery

Explore the nearby Preveli Monastery, known for its rich history and serene atmosphere.
FREE, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike to the Palm Forest

Take a short hike to the beautiful palm forest behind the beach, where you can enjoy nature and the scenic beauty of the area.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Rethymno

Drive back to Rethymno and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Strofi

Savor a lovely dinner at La Strofi, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious offerings of Cretan cuisine.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Plakias & Gorge Adventure

Plakias, Greece on April 26, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Plakias

Set off for Plakias, a village known for its beautiful beaches and access to the nearby Plakias Gorge for hiking.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hike Plakias Gorge

Embark on a scenic hike through Plakias Gorge, where you can admire stunning rock formations and lush greenery.
FREE, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taverna Christina

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Taverna Christina, serving traditional Greek dishes with an emphasis on local ingredients.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Plakias Beach

Spend the afternoon lounging at Plakias Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
FREE, 3 hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Rethymno

Return to Rethymno for the evening.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Avli Lounge

Dine again at Avli Lounge for another delicious experience of Cretan cuisine.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Chania City Tour

Chania, Greece on April 27, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Chania

Head out early to Chania, known for its beautiful harbor and Venetian architecture.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Chania Old Town

Wander the winding streets of Chania Old Town, filled with charming shops, cafes, and historical sites.
FREE, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Chania Maritime Museum

Discover the maritime history of Chania at the fascinating Maritime Museum, featuring ship models and artifacts.
EUR4, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tamam

Indulge in a delicious lunch at Tamam, a popular restaurant serving a mix of Mediterranean and Cretan dishes.
EUR22, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Chania Harbor

Enjoy your afternoon at Chania Harbor, soaking in the picturesque views and maybe enjoying a coffee at one of the waterfront cafes.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania

Explore the Archaeological Museum featuring artifacts from the Minoan era, providing deeper insight into Crete's past.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Salis Restaurant

Dine at Salis Restaurant, offering a modern take on Cretan cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 6: Katholiko Monastery & Nature

Katholiko, Greece on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Katholiko Monastery

Set out for Katholiko Monastery, known for its incredible location and stunning views.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Katholiko Monastery

Explore the historic Katholiko Monastery, nestled in a beautiful gorge with a rich history and peaceful atmosphere.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hike to the Klissidi Gorge

Enjoy a hike through the scenic Klissidi Gorge, a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Crete.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Myrtillus

Have lunch at Myrtillus, a restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious home-cooked meals.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Nearby Caves

Spend the afternoon exploring nearby caves, known for their unique geological formations.
FREE, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Chania

Drive back to Chania for the evening.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Koukouvagia

End your day with dinner at Koukouvagia, offering stunning views and exquisite local dishes.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Beach Bliss at Elafonissi

Elafonissi Beach, Greece on April 29, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Elafonissi Beach

Depart for Elafonissi Beach, celebrated for its pink sand and crystal waters.
FREE, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend your day soaking up the sun on Elafonissi Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
FREE, 6 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Elafonissi Beach Taverna

Savor a casual lunch at Elafonissi Beach Taverna, where you can enjoy seafood and local dishes with a beach view.
EUR20, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore the Dunes

Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning dunes surrounding Elafonissi Beach and enjoy the incredible landscape.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Chania

Drive back to Chania after a lovely day on the beach.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Chrisostomos

End your adventure with a farewell dinner at Chrisostomos, known for its breathtaking views and delicious gourmet dishes.
EUR35, 2 hours
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