13-Day Ultimate Crete Road Trip Itinerary: Explore History, Beaches & Villages

Day 1: Heraklion Arrival

Heraklion, Crete, Greece on May 28, 2025

9:00am

Pick up rental car

Collect your hired car from Heraklion Airport or city center to begin your flexible road trip across Crete.
EUR50, 0h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Kafenio Meleti

Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast with fresh coffee, local pastries, and savory pies in a cozy setting in Heraklion.
EUR8, 1h

10:30am

Visit Knossos Palace

Explore the ancient Minoan palace ruins of Knossos, the legendary labyrinth of King Minos, to experience Crete’s rich archaeological history.
EUR15, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Peskesi

Savor authentic Cretan cuisine in a beautiful traditional courtyard, with locally sourced ingredients and handmade recipes.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Visit one of Greece’s best museums, featuring artifacts from the Minoan civilization for deeper cultural insights.
EUR12, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll along Heraklion Harbor

Relax by the Venetian harbor waterfront and enjoy the scenic views before heading to dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Paralia Seaside Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood and Cretan specialties with a sea view at this popular Heraklion shore spot.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Historic Sites & Villages

Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Erganos

Start the day with organic coffee and homemade pastries in a charming café near the city center.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Agios Nikolaos

Enjoy a scenic 1h30m drive along the northern coast to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.
EUR0, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit the Voulismeni Lake

Explore the famous lake in Agios Nikolaos surrounded by cafes and shops – a great spot for photos and light walking.
Free, 1h

12:15pm

Lunch at Pelagos

Sample fresh fish dishes at this seafront eatery offering outdoor seating with beautiful views of the bay.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Drive to Elounda and Spinalonga Island Tour

Take a boat tour (9am-5pm) from Elounda to the famous Spinalonga fortress island, steeped in history and stunning scenery.
EUR20, 3h

5:30pm

Relax in Elounda

Enjoy a peaceful walk or swim along Elounda’s beautiful coast before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sunset Taverna

Experience Cretan hospitality and delicious Greek dishes while watching the sunset over Mirabello Bay.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: East Coast Exploration

Agios Nikolaos to Sitia, Crete, Greece on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Omilos Coffee & More

Enjoy locally roasted coffee and fresh pastries in the town center to fuel your day.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Sitia

Drive along the scenic northeastern coast on a 1h30m route to Sitia, a charming eastern port town.
EUR0, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Sitia

Discover local Minoan artifacts and regional history in this small but fascinating museum open 9am-2pm.
EUR5, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Taverna Irene

Taste fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes in a friendly local tavern near the old port.
EUR25, 1h30m

1:45pm

Visit Richtis Gorge

Hike this beautiful gorge to Richtis waterfall (2-3 hours), ideal for nature lovers and active travelers.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Sitia and relax

Unwind with a seaside walk or a dip at a sandy beach close to town.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Archontiko

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine featuring local organic products in a traditional setting.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Central Crete Culture

Sitia to Rethymno, Crete, Greece on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local bakery

Grab fresh bread and cheese pies for a light breakfast before the drive west.
EUR6, 0h45m

8:15am

Drive to Rethymno

Travel via scenic roads from the east coast to central north Crete, a 3h road journey with opportunities for stops.
EUR0, 3h

11:30am

Explore Rethymno Old Town

Wander through Renaissance architecture, narrow alleys, and vibrant market squares in the historic heart of the city.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Avli

Dining at a top-rated restaurant that serves innovative Cretan cuisine with a cozy garden atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Fortezza Castle

Tour the Venetian-built fortress with panoramic views of Rethymno and the sea, open until 7pm.
EUR4, 1h

4:30pm

Relax on Rethymno Beach

Enjoy sunbathing or swimming on the long sandy beach just a short walk from the town center.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Prima Plora

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes and sunset views over the sea in a chic, beachfront restaurant.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 5: West Crete Charm

Rethymno to Chania, Crete, Greece on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kourma Cafe

Taste excellent coffee and freshly baked pastries to energize before the coastal drive.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Chania

Travel west along the northern coast for about 1h15m to the scenic town of Chania.
EUR0, 1h15m

10:30am

Explore Chania Old Town & Venetian Harbour

Walk through the winding alleys lined with artisan shops, then admire the historic lighthouse and waterfront cafes.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Tamam Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Cretan and Middle Eastern fusion dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Maritime Museum of Crete

Discover Crete’s maritime history through engaging exhibits, open until 5pm.
EUR7, 1h

4:30pm

Relax at Nea Chora Beach

Spend late afternoon swimming or strolling along this lovely sandy beach close to town.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Glossitses

Dine at a charming tavern serving hearty homemade Cretan dishes in a garden setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Samaria Gorge Adventure

Chania, Crete, Greece on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick hearty breakfast to prepare for a full day hike.
EUR10, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive to Samaria Gorge Entrance

Short 1h drive to Omalos plateau, start point for Samaria Gorge hike.
EUR0, 1h

8:45am

Hike Samaria Gorge

Experience one of Europe’s longest gorges (16km) through beautiful nature and dramatic cliffs. Hiking duration: approx 5-7 hours.
EUR5, 6h

3:00pm

Ferry from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion

After the hike, board the ferry to Chora Sfakion – a scenic 1h trip.
EUR15, 1h

4:30pm

Drive back to Chania

Return to Chania by car in about 1h30m.
EUR0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Bodega

Enjoy tapas-style dishes and great wine in a lively Chania restaurant to celebrate your day.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 7: West Coast & Beaches

Chania, Crete, Greece on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Koukouvaya

Start the day with a creative breakfast offering fresh ingredients and excellent coffee.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Elafonissi Beach

Travel 1h45m south-west to visit famous pink sand beach of Elafonissi, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Free, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Elafonissi beach taverna

Enjoy fresh grilled fish and local salads while soaking in the beach atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Falassarna Beach

Short 45-minute drive to another stunning beach known for turquoise waters and broad sand.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Relax and Swim at Falassarna

Spend your afternoon swimming or sunbathing in a peaceful beach setting.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Chania

Head back to Chania for the evening, about 45 minutes by car.
EUR0, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Tamam

Enjoy a return meal at Tamam Restaurant to savor Cretan dishes you might have missed earlier.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 8: South Coast Villages

Chania to Matala, Crete, Greece on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Atlas

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast near Chania harbor with excellent coffee and breakfast plates.
EUR10, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Matala

A scenic 3h drive crossing central Crete from north to south to reach the famous hippie village of Matala.
EUR0, 3h

12:00pm

Visit Matala Caves and Beach

Explore the ancient caves carved into the cliffs and relax on the stunning sandy beach loved by 60s hippies.
Free, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Scala Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Greek food and fresh seafood right on the beach with excellent views.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:30pm

Drive to Phaistos Archaeological Site

Short 30-minute drive to one of Crete’s most important Minoan ruins with fewer crowds than Knossos.
EUR8, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Matala

Head back to Matala to enjoy evening by the sea.
EUR0, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Harmonia

Chill out with a laid-back dinner of fresh local ingredients in an inviting village ambiance.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 9: South Coast to Heraklion

Matala to Heraklion, Crete, Greece on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Matala Cafe

Relax with a latte and a simple breakfast among locals before leaving the south coast.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Heraklion

Drive north towards Heraklion airport area, about 1h15m for your second-to-last day.
EUR0, 1h15m

10:30am

Visit Cretaquarium

Discover Mediterranean sea life at one of Europe's largest aquariums, open 10am-6pm.
EUR10, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kri Kri

Enjoy traditional and modern Cretan dishes with a local twist in a casual setting.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Relax at Ammoudara Beach

Spend a restful afternoon at this long sandy beach near Heraklion, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Drive to Historical Monasteries

Visit nearby Arkadi Monastery (open till 6pm), an important symbol of Cretan resistance.
EUR3, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Paralia Restaurant

End your day with fresh seafood and Cretan favorites by the Heraklion coast.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 10: Relaxation & Shopping

Heraklion, Crete, Greece on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Meli & Tsai

Enjoy honey-themed breakfast and excellent teas in a quaint café known for quality ingredients.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Shopping at 1866 Street Market

Wander through Heraklion’s bustling market street, browsing local products, souvenirs, and crafts.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Koules Fortress Café

Eat lunch overlooking the sea and the old Venetian fortress in a lively atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h30m

1:45pm

Visit Historical Venizelos Graves

Drive up to Mount Harakas to see the impressive white marble mausoleum and views over Heraklion.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon Tea or Coffee at Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa

Relax with excellent wine and small plates in a comfortable seaside taverna.
EUR15, 1h30m

6:00pm

Stroll in City Park

Enjoy a relaxing walk through the shaded historical city park before your last dinner.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Herb’s Garden

Dine on gourmet Cretan dishes in a beautiful garden rooftop setting with panoramic city views.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 11: Departure Day

Heraklion, Crete, Greece on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast close to your accommodation, preparing for your departure.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Return rental car and transfer to Heraklion Airport

Drive to Heraklion Airport, return your hired car and check-in for your flight home.
Included in rental, 1h
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