The Ultimate Cretan Roadtrip - 10 Days in Crete

On our first day in Crete, we will discover the hubs most important to the island, from antiquity to the present day. We set off from the city of Heraklion, the largest, most crowded city in Crete and the centre of decision-making and contemporary life on the island. Next, we visit Knossos, one of the most powerful and palatial ancient cities, which marks the beginning of sophisticated civilisation on the European continent.

Overnight in Heraklion

Today is a ride through an impressively wide variety of terrain through eastern Crete and the prefecture of Lassithi: dry land, seaside, cities, villages, valleys and caves! We will visit the islet of Spinalonga, which for years was home to the most misunderstood patients: lepers. Eventually, we’ll reach the most famous cave in the ancient world, Diktaion Andron: the place where Zeus, the king of the ancient gods, spent his childhood.

Overnight in Heraklion

Away from the crowds of tourists, we’ll explore Anogia, the village that gave birth to Greece's most beloved musicians. Then we continue to the picturesque cave of Melidoni and the beautiful resort of Bali which make up the dazzling mosaic of coastal Crete and offer many opportunities to enjoy the Cretan sea and Cretan cuisine – just like the locals do.

Overnight in Rethymno

We head to the monastery of Preveli, a stronghold of faith and the Greek sense of freedom. On our return, we’ll follow a fascinating route through the forests of Rethymno prefecture, visiting the traditional village of Spili, known for its cooling, shady square and running waters. Our final stop is the gorge of Patsos, a smaller and less crowded gorge that the famous Samaria gorge.

Overnight in Rethymno

This day is dedicated to the exploration of Apokoronas, the geographical bridge between Chania and the rest of the island. Apokoronas is one of the most interesting on the island, as it combines wild coastal beauty with traditional village architecture. We will visit the most beautiful of its villages, Vrisses and Vamos, that sit at a semi-mountainous altitude and are surrounded by farmland and a wild nature, as well as the remarkable archaeological site of Aptera, before arriving in enchanting Chania.

Overnight in Chania
 

We will visit the fairytale castle of Frangokastello, where the ghosts of the Drosoulites warriors, appear at dawn each May. We will continue to explore the picturesque region of Sfakia, a group of small villages backed by the steep White Mountains, the most rebellious part of Crete where the conquerors never lived. Finally take a dive in one of the many beautiful beaches of southern Crete.

Overnight in Chania

Discover one of the most breathtaking beaches and biosites of Crete, Elafonissi, famous for its clear blue waters and pink sand. As we cross the island to reach its southernmost and westernmost point, we’ll visit the Monastery of Chrysoskalitissa, built on the rocks overlooking the sea and protecting travelers. Our final stop will be Elos, a tiny, picturesque village, full of plane and chestnut trees.

Overnight in Chania

We set off on a day trip from Chania to enjoy the two most famous and enchanting beaches of Crete: Balos and Falassarna. They are the two most exotic and extraordinary places on the island, which make memories of Crete unforgettable and offer relaxation for soul and body.

Overnight in Chania

We left two very special places until last: Lake Kournas and the traditional village of Gavalochori. The coexistence of a traditional urban settlement with the rich natural landscape is a fitting way to end this adventure through such a diverse and bountiful island.