📍 Greece

CRETE EXPLORED: MINOAN HERITAGE, MOUNTAINS AND BEACHES

Luminous Venetian harbors, Renaissance stones breathing history, Minoan treasures, embracing mountains. Exploring Crete.

≈ 6
Days
369
Km
5
Stops
📖 3 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Discover Chania and its Venetian harbor, then follow Rethymno along stone walls and seaside terraces. Cross Heraklion and its Minoan treasures, then breathe in Agios Nikolaos between mountain and turquoise water. End at Sitia, discreet, eastern, deeply true.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Chania

harbor-hugging town where venetian ghosts

🔍

Discover

1
Rethymnon – Chania route
2
Old town of Chania – Venetian alleyways, Janissaries mosque and synagogue
3
Old port of Chania – walk along the quays to the Venetian lighthouse
4
Excursion to Elafonissi – pink sand beach and turquoise lagoon
+2 Places visited
🎯

Activities

Walk around Chania port upon arrival
Sunset watching over the port
Swimming and relaxation by the lagoon
+1 Optional activities
2
Day

Rethymnon

🔍

Discover

1
Journey Agios Nikolaos – Rethymnon
2
Old town of Rethymnon – Venetian alleys and Neratze mosque
3
Venetian fortress of Rethymnon – exploration of bastions and panoramic view
🎯

Activities

Settlement and seaside walk
Stroll in the harbor and discovery of colorful facades
Walk along the ramparts and visit of Ottoman ruins
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 59 km
Travel time: 1h11
3
Day

Heraklion

museum where minoan gold dreams

🔍

Discover

1
Archaeological Museum of Heraklion – collection of Minoan artifacts and exhibition on the civilization of Knossos
2
Old town of Heraklion – walk around Lion Square and the Venetian ramparts
3
Palace of Knossos – Minoan ruins, frescoes and legendary architecture of King Minos
🎯

Activities

Free discovery of the waterfront and the Venetian port of Heraklion
Guided exploration of the archaeological site and discovery of the myth of the Minotaur
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 71 km
Travel time: 1h25
4
Day

Agios Nikolaos

mountain-kissed harbor serene escape

🔍

Discover

1
Journey Heraklion – Agios Nikolaos
2
Walk around Lake Voulismeni and the picturesque port of Agios Nikolaos
3
Free visit of the town of Agios Nikolaos on foot
4
Boat excursion to the island of Spinalonga
+1 Places visited
🎯

Activities

Stroll through the shopping streets and along the lake quays
Panoramic tour by small train around the surroundings of Agios Nikolaos
Free walk on the ramparts and observation of coastal landscapes
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 46 km
Travel time: 55min
5
Day

Sitia

eastern quietness where time sleeps

🔍

Discover

1
Journey Agios Nikolaos – Sitia
2
Discovery of the port and old town of Sitia
🎯

Activities

Walk on Sitia beach and swimming
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 193 km
Travel time: 3h51

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🛡️ Travel advice - Greece

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-June): Perfect weather, blooming landscapes, ideal temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent value, Easter celebrations, optimal conditions.

Summer (July-August): Warmest weather, peak tourist season, highest prices, crowded attractions, perfect for islands, vibrant nightlife, festival season.

Fall (September-October): Warm seas, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent weather, good value, harvest season, ideal photography.

Winter (November-March): Mild weather, lowest prices, minimal crowds, rainy season, ski season mountains, cultural focus, cozy atmosphere.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 5 and 7 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Greece?

Ancient civilization birthplace with stunning islands, incredible history, and Mediterranean lifestyle. Experience mythology sites, beautiful beaches, and authentic Greek culture. The country offers cultural depth with natural beauty and culinary excellence. Greece provides historical significance with island paradise and cultural authenticity in Mediterranean setting.