Crete Discovery Experience Self-Drive

Upon arrival at Heraklion International Airport, collect your hire car from the rental office and drive to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and settle in at your own pace. Overnight in Heraklion.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a stroll through Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of Greece's largest and most significant museums, renowned across Europe for its extensive collection of Minoan artefacts. Afterwards, drive to the nearby Palace of Knossos, Crete's most famous archaeological site. Explore the ruins of this ancient Minoan palace, dating back 5,000 years, and uncover the history behind one of Europe's earliest civilisations. Return to Heraklion for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Chania, a charming town best explored on foot. Begin your stroll at the eastern edge of the harbour, where the Venetian boatyards are located - an ideal spot to note a dockside tavern for later. If you feel adventurous, walk out to the Egyptian lighthouse before dusk, as the path can be uneven. From the lighthouse, enjoy a commanding view of the main harbour. Spend the evening at your leisure in Chania. Overnight in Chania.

Set off early in the morning and drive south-west towards Elafonissi. This unique area is part island, part peninsula, accessible by walking through shallow sea waters. Elafonissi is renowned for its small sandy islets, crystal-clear turquoise waters resembling a lagoon, and fine white sand tinged with pink from crushed shells. Spend time exploring this distinctive coastal landscape before returning to Chania for the night.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Drive to Rethymno and, once settled into your accommodation, explore the charming old town and harbour. Wander through the narrow, winding streets to take in the town's rich history and picturesque scenery. This day offers a relaxed pace filled with cultural discovery and beautiful views. Overnight in Rethymno.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Agios Nikolaos. Just a 10-minute drive along the coast is Voulisma Beach, known for its shallow, clear turquoise waters and a sweeping curve of soft sand bordered by cliffs - one of Crete's finest beaches. For shopping, explore 28is Oktovriou, a pedestrian street near the port and lake, offering a variety of shops catering to visitors. Additional stores line the waterfront by the harbour. Continue by car to the nearby fishing village of Elounda, where you can take a short boat trip to Spinalonga Island. This historic island, once a Venetian fortress and leper colony until 1957, is well known from the bestselling novel The Island by Victoria Hislop and offers a glimpse into Crete's layered past. Overnight in Agios Nikolaos.

Begin the day in Sitia, a charming coastal town nestled in a semicircle along the western side of the Bay of Sitia. This tranquil Mediterranean port offers a relaxed atmosphere and scenic views. Nearby, we visit the Monastery of Toplou, a 15th-century historic site that was rebuilt after the 1612 earthquake with Venetian support. The monastery endured significant damage during the Ottoman conquest but remains an important cultural landmark. Afterwards, continue east to Vai, renowned for its unique palm forest situated directly on the beach. This is the largest palm forest in Crete, home to the endemic Cretan palm, Phoenix theophrasti. Return to Agios Nikolaos for the night.

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before driving to Heraklion International Airport. Return your hire car and prepare for your onward flight home.