We Love —
- Immersing yourself in Crete's breathtaking landscapes, where turquoise seas meet timeless villages and ancient archaeological treasures.
- Unleashing your wanderlust and exploring the island at your own pace with the freedom of an included hire car.
- Diving into Crete's crystal-clear waters, a mesmerising turquoise expanse that simply beckons you to plunge right in.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
This self-drive tour gives you the perfect balance of freedom and structure.
With your rental car, explore the must-see attractions and hidden gems of the island, from historic cities and stunning beaches to impressive mountains and world-renowned cuisine. This trip invites you to discover an island rich in history, diverse landscapes, and unparalleled hospitality.
Choose from the following itineraries:
7 nights:
Day 1: Arrival in Heraklion
Day 2: Heraklion
Day 3: Heraklion - Agios Nikolaos
Day 4: Agios Nikolaos
Day 5: Agios Nikolaos
Day 6: Agios Nikolaos - Rethymno
Day 7: Rethymno
Day 8: Rethymno - Heraklion Airport
10 nights:
- Day 1: Arrival in Heraklion
- Day 2: Heraklion
- Day 3: Heraklion - Agios Nikolaos
- Day 4: Agios Nikolaos
- Day 5: Agios Nikolaos
- Day 6: Agios Nikolaos - Rethymnon
- Day 7: Rethymnon
- Day 8: Rethymnon - Chania
- Day 9: Chania
- Day 10: Chania
- Day 11: Chania - Chania Airport
Please Note: The order of the activities may change, but this will not affect the overall appeal of the itinerary.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your itinerary in detail —
7 night road trip
This itinerary invites you to explore three beautiful regions of Crete, with free days to discover at your own pace. You will stay in the areas of Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, and Rethymno, depending on your arrival point at either Heraklion Airport (HER) or Chania Airport (CHQ), with the itinerary adapted to suit your arrival.
Heraklion and its environs:
- Explore the main port and city walls of Heraklion City. Visit the Archaeological Museum, Natural History Museum, and Historical Museum.
- Don't miss the following must-sees: Venetian Fortress and Venetian Loggia.
- Discover the iconic Minoan Palace of Knossos, a key historical site.
- At Lasithi Plateau (East of Heraklion), visit the Cave of Zeus, the mythical birthplace of the god, featuring spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.
- Visit nearby attractions, including Krasi village, where you can admire the 2,400-year-old plane tree and Kritsa village - home to the Byzantine Panagia Kera Chapel with its vivid frescoes.
- Be sure to visit the Sfendoni Cave (West of Heraklion) and marvel at its stunning natural formations. It's situated approximately an hour’s drive from the city.
Overnight stay in City Green Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
Dinner is included on the evening of your arrival.
Breakfast & dinner included on Day 2.
Agios Nikolaos and its environs:
- Agios Nikolaos, often called the 'St. Tropez of Crete', charms visitors with its quaint alleys, vibrant streets, and the tranquil Voulismeni Lake, is ideal for a relaxing coffee.
10 night road trip
This itinerary offers a leisurely exploration of Crete's rich cultural and natural heritage, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Heraklion and its environs:
- Heraklion, the island's capital, offers a dynamic blend of history and culture, from its bustling harbour and Venetian fortress to its renowned museums, such as the Archaeological and Historical Museums
- Explore the Minoan Palace of Knossos, a fascinating glimpse into ancient Crete, and stroll along the city's imposing fortress walls.
- Delve into the Lasithi Plateau, home to Zeus' Cave, celebrated as the mythical birthplace of the king of gods, showcasing striking stalactites and stalagmites.
- Wander through Krasi village, famed for its 2,400-year-old plane tree, and visit the Byzantine chapel of Panagia Kera in Kritsa, known for its 13th-century frescoes.
- An hour west lies Sfendoni Cave, where natural sculptures and an ethereal atmosphere make it an unmissable attraction.
Overnight stay in City Green Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
Dinner is included on the evening of your arrival.
Breakfast & dinner included on Day 2.
Agios Nikolaos (or Sissi) and environs:
- Agios Nikolaos, often called the 'St. Tropez of Crete', charms visitors with its quaint alleys, vibrant streets, and tranquil Voulismeni Lake, ideal for a relaxing coffee.
- Ascend Agios Charalambos hill for panoramic city views and visit the Archaeological and Folklore Museums to uncover local heritage.
- Don’t miss a boat trip to Spinalonga Island, home to a Venetian fortress steeped in history.
- Explore the fishing village of Sissi, a cosmopolitan retreat, and unwind at nearby beaches like Elounda, Kolokytha, and Plaka for idyllic serenity.
Overnight stay in Mistral Bay Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
Breakfast & dinner included.
Rethymnon & its environs:
- Rethymnon's Old Town, wrapped in Venetian walls, captivates with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and architectural treasures.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
Maximum room capacity
Enjoy the varied charm of the island, from the lively coastal cities to the serenity of the beaches, all while staying in comfortable and welcoming accommodation.
Your hotels during the road trip:
- Agia Pelagia, Chersonissos: City Green Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
- Agios Nikolaos (Elounda to Istron): Mistral Bay Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
- Rethymnon (Bali to Georgioupolis): Minos Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
- La Canée (Kalives to Kolimbari): Geraniotis Beach Hotel 4*, in a Standard room or similar.
Each stop will allow you to discover a different aspect of this beautiful Mediterranean island.
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
The maximum room capacity is as follows: 2 adults. It is possible to stay in a single room for an additional fee.
Your dining choices
Start your days in complete serenity with half board (excluding drinks), which includes dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on your final day of stay.
Half-board (excluding drinks) is included from Day 2 to Day 10, with breakfast on Day 11.
Also, let yourself be tempted by the local flavours of Crete: from crunchy dakos to kalitsounia, and a delicious stifado stew, every step of your journey will be a true culinary discovery.
Your optional excursions & extras —
Day cruise to Santorini (from West Crete)

Go on a day trip to Santorini, Greece's most famous island, and enjoy a day of sightseeing with free time in the famous villages of Oia and Fira.
You'll travel on a fast, modern ferry to make the most of your time on Santorini.
Land Rover Safari to the Shepherds Hut

Experience panoramic views, visit traditional Cretan villages and find out all about the lifestyle of a Cretan shepherd by exploring an original shepherd’s hut called ‘’Mitato’’. In a small group of 6-8 people in each vehicle, learn about the history and the traditions of the Island, meet the locals, discover the wildlife of Crete, and taste the delicious Cretan cheese and cuisine.
Acqua Plus Waterpark All Inclusive

Spend a special day for visitors of all ages in one of the largest water parks on Crete! The water park offers over 50 different slides, games and facilities like Aqua Slalom, Black Holes, and Crazy River. Take a refreshing dip in the main pool, discover the 262-foot (80-m) hydrotube, or just relax on the lazy river or at the hydromassage pool.
Land Rover Safari: West Crete Evening Route (from Rethymnon Area)

A premium Sunset Safari Tour with the best panoramic view of Rethymnon city, Potamon dam, traditional Cretan villages and incredible mountain landscapes. Indulge in a romantic premium off-road experience with the best panoramic views and premium service in a shared small group tour of up to 8 people per vehicle.
Loutro: The Forgotten Village from West Crete (Rethymnon area)

Explore the treasure of the South and visit the dazzling beach of Glyka Nera, followed by exploring the forgotten village of Loutro, only reachable by boat.
Sunset Cruise on a Pirate Ship

Embark on the wooden pirate ship "Captain Hook" at the port of Rethymno and go on an unforgettable sunset cruise. Enjoy the magnificent view of the city and the Cretan mountains in the background as the sun disappears over the horizon.
Pirate Ship Cruise and Snorkelling

Embark on a dream cruise on a wooden pirate ship from the port of Rethymno. Sail west to Kefalas Bay and enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the island!
Sailing cruise from the South Coast - Agia Galini

Embark on an extraordinary excursion, where sailing, breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and a sense of serenity make for an exceptional experience.
Visit to the Palace of Knossos and the city of Heraklion

Embark on a time-travel journey by discovering the ancient ruins of the Palace of Knossos and the bustling atmosphere of the city of Heraklion. This guided tour will be the perfect opportunity to delve into the captivating history of the Minoan civilization while exploring one of Greece's most iconic archaeological sites.
eSIM with 1GB - 5GB internet

Enjoy easy access to the internet with a handy 1GB - 5GB eSIM, bookable at the next stage of the booking process. Install your eSIM before departure in just a few taps.
Note: please check that your phone is eSIM-compatible before departure.
Panorama Tour in Agios Nikolaos

Take part in an interactive experience to learn all about the Cretan way of life, including ancient traditions, olive oil production, original types of cheese and authentic Cretan recipes. During this activity, you will have the opportunity to take part in a guided tour of the farm, followed by a cheese-making activity and a cooking lesson.
Day trip to Gramvousa peninsula and Balos lagoon with lunch - For stays of 7 nights minimum

Visit Gramvoussa and enjoy a beautiful day at the famous Balos lagoon where you will discover one of the most famous beaches in Crete.
Day trip to Santorini by ferry - from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Sissi

Go on a day trip to the neighbouring island of Santorini, the most famous Greek island, and enjoy a guided tour with free time in the renowned villages of Oia and Fira. You will travel by a "speed ferry" to make the most of your time on Santorini.
Sailing from Agios Nikolaos

Sail along the coast of Spinalonga on a sailing excursion departing from Agios Nikolaos marina, with relaxation on deck, swimming in Kolokitha and a delicious full meal served on board.
Day trip to the Gramvousa Peninsula and Balos Lagoon with lunch - from Chania

Leave from Chania and visit Gramvousa, while enjoying a beautiful day at the famous Balos Lagoon, where you will discover one of the most famous beaches in Crete.
Your journey to Crete —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking. This flight may include one or more stopovers. The stopover may be technical (without a change of aircraft) or transit (with a change of aircraft).
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Crete
The ancient island of Crete is the fifth-largest in the Mediterranean and is home to a magical tapestry of splendid beaches, ancient treasures, vibrant cities and dreamy villages.
Historically the home of Europe’s first advanced civilisation, the Minoans, it has since been ruled by Romans, the Venetian Republic, and the Ottoman Empire - and this melting pot of cultures influences Crete’s vibrant atmosphere.
On the north shore, Heraklion is the island’s largest city and capital, where you can see the archaeological site of Knossos and the Historical Museum of Crete. Venture east to see some of the island’s unspoiled gems such as the fishing village of Agios Nikolaos. Boasting over 1000km of coastline, there are also plenty of stunning beaches to enjoy - seek out Balos for its Caribbean-esque white sand and turquoise waters, or view the largest palm tree forest in Europe at Vai Beach.
To escape the heat in the summer, venture inland to the island’s dramatic mountains - hike the length of the Samaria Gorge and get lost in its winding river path, or experience thrilling views from Giouchtas Mountain.
At the end of a long day, sample some authentic Cretan hospitality and seafood at a local restaurant - this is the perfect place for a diverse, sun-soaked holiday.