EXPLORE CRETE ISLAND (Self drive tour)
     
Crete relief map-de  

Bargain offer for a nice Self–drive tour program, ideal for the independent traveler, looking to explore and see new places every day.

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and makes it an ideal self-drive destination, with so much to see:

Visit archeological sites,
drive through traditional villages and see the local culture or enjoy a full day by the sea and many more…


Day 1: HERAKLION:

Self-Arrive at Heraklion  by airplane or boat and pick up your hire vehicle. Heraklion is the capital of Crete and the 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 Heraklion.

Day 2: HERAKLION- AGIOS NIKOLAOS:

Depart from Heraklion 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 the Lassithi province.  There are lots of beaches nearby and good tavernas in the 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 ofSpinalonga 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: 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 reach Rethymno, you can choose to stop
at Panormos 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 harbour with its charming 13th century lighthouse.  This city has great choices of cafes and good restaurants. 

Overnight in Rethymnon.

Day 5: RETHYMNO-CHANIA:

Depart from Rethymno to Chania and drive along the main coastal highway, alternatively you can drive south out of Rethymnon, towards the coastal village of Plakias. From there drive west, along the coastal road to Hora skafion 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, Crete’s largest city. 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 -HERAKLION:

In the morning spend your time in the city of Chania.  The city of Chania ans the western pary 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. Or why not extend your stay to see a lot more.  Then you can drive towards Heraklion town. Overnight in Heraklion.          

Day 7: HERAKLION: Drop off the car at the airport or downtown before departure.

Rates/Person in 3* Hotels

HERAKLION: CASTELLO CITY HOTEL in standard rooms Bed&Breakfast
AGIOS NIKOLAOS: SANTA MARINA HOTEL in standard rooms Bed&Breakfast
HERSONISOS: PELLA MARIA HOTEL in standard rooms

All-Inclusive
RETHYMNO: BRASCOS HOTEL in standard rooms Bed&Breakfast
CHANIA: ARKADI HOTEL in standard rooms Bed&Breakfast

in Triple-Room: from 299,- €/Person

in Double-Room: from 389,- €/Person

in Single-Room: from 684,- €/Person
Rates/Person in 4* Hotels

HERAKLION: ASTORIA CAPSIS HOTEL in superior rooms

Bed&Breakfast
HERSONISOS: MEDITERRANEO HOTEL in standard rooms

All-Inclusive
RETHYMNO: ACHILLION PALACE HOTEL in standard rooms Bed&Breakfast
CHANIA: AMALTHIA BEACH RESORT HOTEL, in standard rooms

Bed&Breakfast
in Triple-Room: 428,- €/Person
in Double-Room: 528,- €/Person
in Single-Room: 879,- €/Person
Included:

  • 6 NIGHTS Accommodation and board at the above feature hotels
  • 7 DAYS CAR RENTAL cat C’ (VW POLO A/C or similar), including Vat, unlimited mileage, comprehensive insurance, delivery-correction to airport/port of Crete.
Foto: thewandererstales