Car Hire in Crete: One Car, Many Destinations

Your Crete Itinerary: Six Days of Discovery

Day 1: Exploring Heraklion

Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Touching down at Heraklion Airport, the adventure begins. A seamless hotel check-in at your chosen local accommodation sets the tone for a comfortable, hassle-free stay. You’ll find that the Cretan hospitality extends from the bustling streets right into your hotel lobby.

Knossos Palace Visit

Your first stop is the legendary Knossos Palace, a symbol of the ancient Minoan civilization. Feel the thrill of anticipation as you navigate through its labyrinthine corridors, each turn revealing fascinating artifacts and frescoes that echo with the tales of King Minos and the Minotaur. Amid the ruins, history comes alive, whispering ancient stories of power, intrigue, and myth.

Buy Skip the line tickets from Knossos Official Website.

Heraklion Museum

Continue your historical journey at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of Minoan artifacts. Here, each relic and artifact holds a piece of the puzzle, shedding light on the mysteries of this ancient civilization. As you wander through the museum, the vibrant Minoan culture unfolds before your eyes, its story told through intricate pottery, delicate jewellery, and imposing statuary.

Lunch at Erganos Restaurant

For lunch, Erganos Restaurant offers a delightful introduction to Cretan cuisine. Sample the ‘dakos’, a traditional crunchy bread topped with fresh tomatoes and mizithra cheese, or the hearty ‘gamopilafo’, a local risotto-style dish. Each bite is a tribute to Crete’s culinary heritage, combining fresh local ingredients with time-honoured recipes.

Heraklion Center Exploration

Immerse yourself in the vibrant city centre of Heraklion, where history and modernity play a fascinating duet. Explore charming boutiques, marvel at the Venetian fortress Koules that guards the old harbour, or lose yourself in the vibrant market streets brimming with local produce and crafts. Stop by Morosini Fountain, an iconic symbol of the city’s Venetian past, and let the pulsing energy of the city draw you into its rhythm.

Dinner in Heraklion

End your day with a delectable dinner in Heraklion, a city celebrated for its diverse dining scene. Whether you’re seeking a traditional Cretan feast or a gourmet culinary experience, Heraklion has it all. The city is a gastronomic paradise, home to both quaint tavernas serving authentic local fare and high-end restaurants that reinterpret the island’s culinary heritage with a touch of modern elegance. For the traditionalists, the tavernas in the old town offer beloved Cretan dishes prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. If it’s gourmet you’re after, Heraklion’s upscale dining establishments serve up innovative cuisine that beautifully marries Mediterranean flavours with contemporary culinary techniques. Whichever culinary path you choose, rest assured that every meal in Heraklion is a sensory journey into the heart of Crete’s rich gastronomic tradition.

Nightcap in the City

End your day with a nightcap at one of Heraklion’s intimate bars. Sip on ‘raki’, Crete’s traditional spirit, under the starlit sky, and let the day’s adventures simmer in your thoughts. The soft hum of the city at night, coupled with the relaxed atmosphere, provides the perfect ending to your first day in Crete.

Day 2: Agios Nikolaos

Scenic Drive to Agios Nikolaos

As the sun rises, start your second day with a leisurely drive towards Agios Nikolaos, located on Crete’s eastern coast. The roughly 66km journey promises a visual feast of Crete’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming villages, lush vineyards, and olive groves that stretch out against the cerulean sky. Don’t miss a stop at Kritsa, one of Crete’s oldest and most picturesque villages. Here, narrow alleys snake between traditional whitewashed houses, inviting you to take a short walk and soak in the genuine Cretan lifestyle.

Exploration of Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos, with its charming harbour and glittering lake, is a jewel in the crown of Crete. Begin your exploration at Lake Voulismeni, a small lagoon in the heart of the town, connected to the sea by a narrow channel. According to local folklore, the lake is bottomless and was the bathing place of goddess Athena. Next, head to the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos, where a collection of Minoan gold and Mycenean clay figurines narrate tales of the island’s ancient history. Stroll along the marina, take a dip at one of the nearby sandy beaches, or simply enjoy a cup of Greek coffee at a waterfront café, absorbing the town’s laid-back atmosphere.

Overnight Stay in Agios Nikolaos

Finding a place to stay in Agios Nikolaos is pleasantly simple, with options spanning from charming bed-and-breakfasts to luxury resorts. Prioritise a convenient location— a hotel near the town centre or beach allows easy access to local attractions. Consider amenities that cater to your comfort, such as an in-house restaurant, pool or sea-view rooms. For a truly immersive experience, opt for a family-run establishment where Cretan hospitality shines. As the evening unfolds, enjoy the tranquil charm of this coastal town, its twinkling lights reflecting on the calm waters of the bay— a perfect end to your second day in Crete.

Day 3: Spinalonga

Spinalonga Tour

Kick start your day with a tour to the Island of Spinalonga, an important cultural landmark that was once a Venetian fortress and a leper colony. Booking a tour to this historical island is an opportunity to delve into Crete’s fascinating past. As you wander through the preserved houses and buildings, tales of resilience, struggle and human spirit come to life. Do not miss the small museum that showcases life on the island during its time as a leper colony. The striking contrast of the island’s sombre history and the sparkling azure waters that surround it makes a visit to Spinalonga an unforgettable experience.

Dinner in the Area

After spending the day steeped in history, unwind at the charming ‘Taverna Giorgos’, nestled close to Spinalonga. As you savour delicacies like ‘stifado’ (a hearty beef stew) or ‘chochlioi boubouristi’ (fried snails), a traditional Cretan dish, the restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Dine al fresco and enjoy the breathtaking view of Spinalonga, bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun. The combination of delicious local food, friendly service, and stunning scenery makes ‘Taverna Giorgos’ the perfect spot to end your third day in Crete.

Day 4: Ierapetra Beach and Drive to Chania

Ierapetra Beach Visit

Start your fourth day in Crete at Ierapetra, a beach paradise that offers more than just a typical day under the sun. Known as the ‘bride of the Libyan Sea’, Ierapetra’s sun-drenched beaches are a haven for sun-seekers and watersports enthusiasts alike. From the azure waters of Agia Fotia to the golden sands of Koutsounari, each beach presents its own character. Take a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear waters, or partake in a range of watersports, from windsurfing to snorkeling. If you’re in search of tranquillity, stake out a spot under the shade of the tamarisk trees dotted along the beaches, and lose yourself in a good book or merely bask in the serenity of the surroundings. Don’t forget to pack your picnic gear— a beachside lunch of local cheeses, fruits, and a bottle of Cretan wine can elevate your beach experience to exceptional.

Drive to Chania

After a leisurely morning at Ierapetra beach, embark on a scenic drive to Chania, one of Crete’s most charming cities. The drive, approximately 300 kilometres (3 hours drive) , unfolds across Crete’s diverse landscapes. As you traverse this distance, you’ll pass through traditional villages and vast olive groves, witnessing the authentic Cretan lifestyle. A recommended pit stop is the Imbros Gorge, located halfway through the journey. The viewpoint offers stunning panoramas of the deep gorge cradled between towering mountains, a breathtaking sight indeed. While the drive is long, the ever-changing vistas and the anticipation of reaching Chania, with its Venetian harbour and beautiful old town, make the journey an integral part of your Crete adventure. A car hire in Crete is your passport to these unforgettable experiences, revealing the many surprises this enchanting island holds at every turn.

Day 5: Exploration of Chania

Chania City Highlights

Delve into the heart of Crete’s cultural richness with a day spent exploring Chania. Start your day at the captivating Venetian Harbour, Chania’s historical centrepiece. From the quaint lighthouse to the Fort Firkas, each corner of this harbour whispers tales of the past. Wander through the narrow, labyrinthine streets of Chania’s Old Town, where Venetian, Ottoman and Neoclassical influences blend seamlessly, creating an architectural tapestry that stands as a testament to the city’s diverse history. Visit the Chania Archaeological Museum situated within the gorgeously restored Venetian church of St. Francis, which exhibits a wide range of artefacts from Neolithic to Roman periods. Don’t miss the bustling Chania Municipal Market, or Agora, where the vibrant display of fresh local produce, cheeses, and spices offer a sensory delight. A day in Chania provides you with a rich cultural palette, an embodiment of the essence of Crete.

Nearby Beaches

A stone’s throw away from Chania are some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, each boasting unique landscapes and attractions. The exotic Balos Lagoon, with its turquoise waters and white sand, offers an almost Caribbean-like setting, a striking contrast to the rugged Cretan topography. Equally impressive is Falassarna beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and broad sandy beach. For a more secluded experience, head over to Seitan Limania, a hidden gem nestled between steep cliffs. Wherever you choose to unwind, the beaches near Chania are a testament to Crete’s diverse beauty, easily reachable with a car hire in Crete.

Day 6: Departure from Chania

Chania Airport Drop-off

As your adventure in Crete draws to a close, a smooth transition is key. Returning your rental car at Chania Airport is straightforward. Be sure to fill up the petrol tank in accordance with your rental agreement to avoid additional charges. Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to allow time for car return, check-in, and security. It’s also a good idea to check the car for personal belongings and leave it clean to ensure a hassle-free return.

Conclusion

The splendour of Crete is undeniably compelling, with each day unfolding a different chapter of its rich tapestry. From the historical depth of Spinalonga, the sun-kissed shores of Ierapetra, to the cultural bounty of Chania, Crete has offered a myriad of experiences, each one etched in memory. The convenience of a car hire in Crete has allowed us to traverse the island’s diverse landscapes, painting our own journey amidst its timeless allure. As we bid adieu, we leave with a suitcase full of sunsets, smiles, and stories, carrying a piece of Crete in our hearts, forever.