DISCOVER CRETE

ITINERARY

Day 1: HERAKLIO

 Arrive at Heraklio by airplane or boat and pick up your hire vehicle. Heraklio is the capital of Crete and he largest city of this island, and there is plenty to explore: the massive Venetian walls, the medieval castle in the harbour, Morozini’s fountain and many other Venetian buildings and monuments, as well as the beautiful old town is a must see. Its museum, devoted to the Minoan civilisation is one of the most important museums in Europe. You can of course travel to the archaeological site of Knossos, located 10 Km south-east. This Minoan palace is part of the most ancient city in Greece, a place of Legend. Overnight in Heraklio

Day 2: HERAKLIO- AGIOS NIKOLAOS

Depart from Heraklio and drive east along coast towards Agios Nikolaos area. Agios Nikolaos is the beautiful gulf of Mirabello on the north coast is the capital of Lassithi province. There are lots of beaches nearby and good taverns in town. On the way, you can visit ancient Malia, or continue to Elounda and enjoy the panoramic views of the Gulf of Mirabello, a quiet fishing village. From there you can take a boat and sail to the island of Spinalonga with its Venetian fortress, a former leper colony.
Admire the coastline when driving to Agios Nikolaos, with its picturesque port.
Overnight in Agios Nikolaos

Day 3: AGIOS NIKOLAOS- HERSONISSOS

Depart from Agios Nikolaos, and before reach Hersonissos, you can choose to either relax in Agios Nikolaos or at a nearby beach or decide to explore Sitia before reach Hersonissos: Near Sitia is the ruin of Ancient Zakros, the Toplou Monastery, and the famous Vai Beach with its forest of palm trees, unique in Europe. Take the road towards Hersonissos and overnight in Hersonissos

Day 4: HERSONISSOS-RETHYMNO

Depart from Hersonissos and drive along the main coastal road towards Rethymno. On the way before reaching Rethymno, you can choose to stop at Panoramas- small traditional fishing village- and continue for a visit to Arkadi Monastery, a place with special historic interest. Then arrive in the town of Rethymno, which is a picturesque city which retains its ties with the past, with Venetian influences. The old quarter is rich and elegant, well preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture with historic houses. The huge Venetian Fortress, built in the 16th Century, overlooks the picturesque harbor with its charming 13th century lighthouse. This city has great choices of cafes and good restaurants. Overnight in Rethymno

Day 5: RETHYMNO-CHANIA

Depart from Rethymno to Chania and drive along the main coastal highway; alternatively you can drive south out of Rethymno, towards the coastal village of Plakias. From there drive west, along the coastal road to Hora Sfakion via picturesque Frangocastello. Along this stretch of coastline are some of the most beautiful and natural beaches in Crete. After Hora Sfakion take the main road back north, following the signs to Chania, one of Crete’s largest cities. This particular scenic drive climbs over high mountains, alongside a steep gorge and offers spectacular scenery with sweeping views of the coast. Overnight in Chania

Day 6: CHANIA -HERAKLIO

In the morning spend time in the city of Chania. The city of Chania and the western part of Crete has much to offer to the travellers. You’ll be able to choose from a walk around the old city’s maze of streets, wander around the covered market or walk along the sea wall and take in the sight of Chania’s recently restored ancient Venetian lighthouse, or hike around Samaria Gorge, one of the Crete’s most beautiful sites, with 16 Km of rugged landscapes or go sightseeing on the peninsula of Gramvousa, featuring archaeological sites and heavenly beaches. Why not extend your stay to see a lot more!!! Then you can drive towards Heraklio town. Overnight in Heraklio

Day 7: HERAKLIO- DEPARTURE

Drop off the car at the airport or downtown before departure