You think Crete, is just a fancy and famous destination? Crete, is more than this. It’s a journey through culture, history and of course, nature. Heraklion, Crete’s bustling capital, is the perfect base for travelers like you. Travelers who wants to explore the ancient ruins, the island’s coasts, the traditional mountain villages. And how are you gonna do all these? By car. Because, when you’re having your own vehicle, you’re free to discover all the hidden spots in your time. But mostly, you can stop wherever inspiration strikes.
In our guide, you’ll find the top 7 day trips form Heraklion by car, giving you the ultimate suggestions to see. With ApexCar.gr vehicle you’ll find all the destinations you need to tell everyone your trip to Crete was a life changing destination.
Let’s hit the road!
1. Knossos palace· Your entrance into Minoan history
Only 15 minutes from Heraklion, the Palace o Knossos is the heart of the Minoan civilization. The massive ruins, the colorful frescoes, the Minotaur and the labyrinth, it’s all part of the most icon site in Crete. In only 15 minutes, you can see how life was over 3.500 years ago. The Throne Room and the Dolphin Room will excite you! Don’t forget to visit the archaeological museum as well in the center of the town!
We recommend a Toyota Yaris. It’s small, easy to park and the perfect choice for a city drive.
Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat. Don’t forget to buy a guide-book so you can understand fully what you see.
2. Matala· The caves, the beach & the bohemian vibes
Is it worth traveling 70 kilometers to get to Matala? Definitely! Matala is a seaside village, combing natural beauty and counterculture history. The beach has those dramatic sandstone cliffs with ancient caves· once was Roman tombs and in the 1960s was inhabited by the hippies. In Matala, you can find plenty of cafes & tavernas with seafood and cocktails.
We recommend a Peugeot 208. Comfortable for long drives and what you need for a village road.
Pro tip: Matala hosts a summer music festival, keeping the free-spirit of the hippies alive.
3. Agios Nikolaos· Lake views and seaside charm
Only an hour away from the capital, Agios Nikolaos is a beautiful town centered around the Lake Voulismeni. The lake area is full with cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy your cold freddo with a stunning view. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum and walk around the port at night! There you’ll find traditional craft shops and cozy cafes. You can buy olive oil, wine and ceramics.
We recommend a Citroën C1 for a comfortable drive along the coast.
Pro tip: Almyros and Ammoudi are the perfect beaches for a swim.
4. Lasithi plateau· Windmills and mountain villages
Almost 90minutes from Heraklion, the Plateau it’s a high plain circled by mountains. Famous for its windmills and the fertile farmland. If you love panoramic views, there you are! Take your camera and capture one of the most beautiful road trips. Visit the small, welcoming villages like Tzermiado or the Dikteon Cave, where is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus.
We recommend a Suzuki Jimny that can handle the mountain roads and gives you extra comfort.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to buy local cheese and honey, or stop at a taverna to enjoy traditional dishes.
5. Melidoni· The traditional cave village
Melidoni, the charming village just outside Rethymno, only half an hour from Heraklion. Its best known for its Cave, an impressive formation with a tragic past- during the Ottoman occupation, many Cretans were trapped and killed there. You can explore the inside of the cave, which is full of stalagmites! The village is a quiet place, with traditional architecture and the most friendly people. Enjoy the fresh dishes and don’t forget to buy Cretan raki and wine.
We recommend a Peugeot 3008, Easy to drive & ideal for a relaxed countryside trip.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to visit the reptile museum.
6. Rethymno· Α taste of venetian elegance
laid-back modern vibe. Explore the beautiful and full of happy people Old Town filled with old mansions, boutiques and traditional tavernas. Walk around the Venetian harbor and see one of the most iconic sunsets. Explore the lighthouse and don’t forget to admire the panoramic view from Fortezza.
Don’t forget to visit the venetian fountain of Rimondi, built in 1626, at the heart of the Old Town. It’s a famous photo spot and great place to drink a fresh juice and explore the nearby streets.
We recommend a Fiat Tipo, perfect for an economic full-day road trip.
Pro tip: After the sightseeing, ask the residents where to have the best raki.
7. Zaros lake· Nature and local flavors
Around 45 minutes south of Heraklion, Zaros is the ideal destination for all nature lovers. The lake at its center is surrounded by trees and picnic areas. It’s also the starting point for the Rouvas Gorge hike, which leads through lush forest and offers you stunning views. If you’re a nature lover, don’t skip this!
We recommend a VW T-ROC. The perfect choice for a countryside road.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to taste the Zaros water, one of the most famous bottled waters in Crete.
Final thoughts
Crete, is the island that can offers you whatever you like. These day trips from Heraklion by car, are 7 of the best choices you can make through your vacation time. Crete, is the biggest Greek island, so you definitely need a car. Choosing ApexCar.gr means you’ll always have the right vehicle for your journey. Whether you simply want to find the best beaches, or you want to see beautiful landscapes and meet friendly people, Crete can offer you all of this in just a few days.
So, plan your visits, choose your car, and set off on one of these unforgettable day trips from Heraklion by car. You’ll be glad you did.
Read about The Culinary Delights of Crete, here.
Read about the Melidoni’s Cave history, here.
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