7-Day Adventure Exploring Crete Itinerary

Drive to Knossos Palace, just outside Heraklion. Spend your morning exploring this ancient Minoan palace, which is considered Europe's oldest city. The ruins are fascinating and give insight into ancient Cretan civilization.

Head to Rethymno for lunch at Beggars Pizza. Enjoy some delicious pizza before taking a walk through the charming old town with its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and beautiful harbor.

In the evening, dine at The Loft Restaurant in Rethymno. This restaurant offers stunning views along with its delectable menu. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront before heading back to your accommodation.

Drive to Chania in the morning and start your day with breakfast at Enzo's Pizzeria. While it may be known for pizza, they also serve an excellent breakfast menu that will set you up for a day of exploration.

Spend your afternoon wandering through Chania's Old Town and Venetian Harbor. The picturesque streets are filled with shops, cafes, and historical sites like the Maritime Museum of Crete.

For dinner, visit Portillo's Hot Dogs, where you can enjoy some comfort food after a day of sightseeing. Take an evening stroll along Chania's beautiful harbor before retiring for the night.

Drive early to Elafonissi Beach on Crete’s southwestern coast. Known for its pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's one of Crete’s most beautiful spots. Spend your morning swimming and relaxing on this stunning beach.

For lunch, head back towards Paleochora town where you can dine at Culver's. Enjoy their wide range of dishes while taking in views of this charming coastal town.

Return to Chania or head towards another southern gem like Matala if you're up for more driving. For dinner near Matala or en route back to Chania stop by Walt's Food Center Deli for some hearty local fare.

Start your day with a scenic drive to Matala, a village famous for its stunning beach and ancient caves. Begin your morning by exploring the Matala Caves, which were once used as Roman tombs and later became a haven for hippies in the 1960s. The caves offer a fascinating glimpse into history and provide stunning views of the coastline.

After exploring the caves, head to Rising Sun Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar for lunch. This highly-rated restaurant offers a delightful mix of Japanese cuisine, including fresh sushi and sizzling teppanyaki dishes. Enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Spend your evening relaxing on Matala Beach, known for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters. As the sun sets, dine at El Cortez Mexican Restaurant, where you can savor delicious Mexican dishes with a Cretan twist. The vibrant atmosphere and tasty food make it a perfect spot to end your day.

Samaria Gorge Hike - Start early with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before driving to Samaria Gorge, one of Crete's most famous natural attractions. The hike through the gorge is approximately 16 kilometers long and offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife.

Samaria Gorge Hike - Continue your hike through Samaria Gorge, stopping for a packed lunch along the way. The trail can be challenging but is well worth it for the stunning scenery and sense of accomplishment upon reaching Agia Roumeli at the end.

Samaria Gorge Hike - After completing the hike, take a ferry from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion. From there, drive back to Chania or another nearby town for dinner at Culver's. Enjoy their comforting dishes as you relax after an adventurous day.

Lake Voulismeni - Drive to Agios Nikolaos on Crete's eastern coast. Start your day with breakfast at a local café before visiting Lake Voulismeni, a picturesque lake surrounded by cafes and shops. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Spinalonga Island - In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Spinalonga Island from Elounda or Plaka village near Agios Nikolaos. Explore this historic island known for its Venetian fortress and former leper colony. The island offers fascinating history and beautiful views of Mirabello Bay.

Return to Agios Nikolaos for dinner at Walt's Food Center Deli. Savor their delicious offerings while reflecting on your week-long adventure exploring Crete's diverse landscapes and rich history.