Alexandre RobertThe roadtrip is an adventure in itself and Crete only makes it more interesting. The island’s roads are winding and offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The white sandy beaches and turquoise waters are an invitation to relaxation and water sports. Crete is also a rich cultural destination, with many archaeological sites and picturesque villages to explore. Whether you are looking for a quiet adventure or non-stop excitement, a roadtrip to Crete is sure to satisfy.
Rent the right car to drive in Crete!
To try the adventure of the road trip in Crete, you will obviously have to equip yourself with a good vehicle. To be picked up at Chania or Heraklion Airport, depending on your flight. To find it, go to the page below:
Crete: ideal for a road trip
The island is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains and picturesque villages. Crete is the ideal place for a roadtrip because of its natural beauty and its many tourist attractions.
The roads in Crete are generally well maintained and there are many things to see and do along the way. The main tourist attractions of the island are: the Samaria Gorge, Western Crete and its preserved places such as Balos Beach and Elafonisi, the monastery of Preveli and of course the numerous sandy beaches. Crete is also known for its many caves and caverns, some of which are open to the public.
A road trip to Crete is the perfect opportunity to explore this beautiful island. The roads of Crete offer visitors the opportunity to see many tourist attractions and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
Road trip in Crete: our 7 steps itinerary
A road trip to Crete is a great way to discover the island of Zeus’ birth, in person! There are many possible itineraries, but here are some of the most popular places to visit in Crete:
1. Chania (Hania or Chania)
The city of Hania is the ancient capital of the island. It is a very charming port city surrounded by Venetian fortification walls. The old town is full of narrow streets and old buildings, and there are many lively bars and restaurants along the harbor.
It is also possible that you will land there, at Chania Airport. So rent your car locally, visit and fly away!
2. Balos Beach
Balos beach is located about an hour’s drive north of Hania and is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is a protected area Nature 2000, so still very wild, although very surveyed in high season.
The turquoise waters and white rocks contrast with the fine pink sand of the lagoon, and there is a small island accessible by boat that offers a breathtaking view of the bay.
3. The Samaria Gorge
The Samaria Gorge is one of the longest gorges in Europe. They offer an exceptional hike of several hours, which is one of the best ways to discover the beauty of Crete. The gorge can be reached by a hiking trail down the mountain to the village of Samaria.
4. Preveli Beach
After the heat and the efforts made in Samaria, direction the sea, in the south of the island, a few dozen minutes. Direction one of the most beautiful islands of Crete: Preveli Beach.
A unique place in the world, for its beach of course, but above all for its river which flows into the sea, bordered by a dense and breathtaking palm grove, which you can swim up.
A must during your roadtrip in Crete!
5. Heraklion
Then back to the city, in the capital this time: Heraklion, in the north of the island.
You will discover a city full of history and high places of Greek mythology. Soak up the warmth of the Cretan people, from the narrow streets to the restaurants and the warm evenings.
6. Spinalonga and Kalydon
Located off the northeast coast of Crete, the islands of Spinalonga and Kalydon can be reached in a little more than an hour by car, then by boat from Agios Nikolaos in particular.
Spinalonga was once a Venetian fortified island, and there are still some remains of the old fortress.
Kalydon is a small and quiet island with beautiful white sandy beaches.
7. Agios Nikolaos
Don’t hesitate to end your road trip in Crete with the beautiful and sweet town of Agios Nikolaos.
Its restaurants, bars, shops and beautiful hotels too.
Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Lake Voulismeni, located in the center of the city.
What are the best roads in Crete for a good road trip?
Crete is a beautiful island to visit by car. The roads of the island are winding and offer magnificent views. Here are the best roads in Crete for an unforgettable roadtrip!
The road to the Samaria Gorge is one of the most famous roads in Crete. The gorge is 18 km long and offers a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. The road is narrow and winding, but it’s worth it!
The road along the south coast of the island is beautiful. It runs along the turquoise sea and offers beautiful views of the white sandy beaches. The road is 150 km long and you will pass through many picturesque villages.
The road to the west of the island is the most beautiful road in Crete. It runs along the rocky coast and offers magnificent views of the sea. The road is 100 km long and you will pass through many picturesque villages.
Unique landscapes to see by car
