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Crete Self Drive |
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The size of Crete makes it an ideal self-drive destination, with so much to see outside the capital of Heraklion. Main roads are quite well maintained and roads off the beaten track often resemble NZ smaller country roads. This self drive itinerary will allow you to experience the highlights of this magical island, where locals are renowned for their traditions and hospitality. The old town of Chania is a highlight, so the suggested itinerary has been designed to provide more time in this special area to explore the colourful town centre, to visit some of the nearby stunning beaches, or to immerse yourself in war history.
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| DAYS |
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8 days / 7 nights |
| DEPARTURE |
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Heraklion - Chiana |
| HOLIDAY TYPE |
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Flexi holiday - self drive itinerary |
| DEPARTURE DATES |
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Daily March - October |
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| ITINERARY |
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| Day 1 |
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Heraklion
After collecting your rental car from the airport, make your own way to the hotel where a reservation has been made for you for one night. |
| Day 2 |
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Heraklion - Sitia
After a visit to the Archaeological Museum and the Cathedral of St. Minas, protector of the city, visit the ruins of the Minoan Palace of Knossos. South of Knossos is the village of Archanes with its beautifully restores Turkish houses and vineyards. Drive to Sitia, a delightful harbour town. (B) |
| Day 3 |
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Sita - Aghios Nikolaos
After a visit to the 15th century Monastery of Toplou, drive to Vai the first place in Europe to watch the sun rise every morning. Overnight in the picturesque harbour town of Aghios Nikolaos. (B) |
| Day 4 |
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Aghios Nikolaos - Matala
Drive through the mountains and small villages of the fertile plain of Messara and see the ruins of the Minoan Palace of Phaestos and the old Greek-Roman town of Gortys. Arrive in Matala, famous for its pre-historic caves which were also homes for hippies during the 70's. (B) |
| Day 5 |
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Matala - Chania
Morning drive to Preveli Monastery via the narrow gorge Kourtaliotiko. Then drive via small villages to the township of Rethymnon before making your way to the charming town of Chania. (B) |
| Day 6 |
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Chania
Spend the day exploring the old centre of Chania town and the Venetian Harbour. Also visit the Public Market which is an impressive building in the town centre and houses the local food shops and markets. (B) |
| Day 7 |
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Chania
Today visit one or both of the most famous beaches in Crete - Elafonissi and/or Falassarna, or perhaps visit the famous Samaria Gorge - the choice is yours. (B) |
| Day 8 |
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Chania
Visit Souda Bay World War II Cemetery en route to Chania Airport or Heraklion to return your rental car. (B) |
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HOLIDAY INCLUSIONS
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* Accommodation in selected hotel category
* Daily breakfast
* 7 day car rental
* travel notes
* Arrival transfers
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NOTE
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* Accommodation in regional areas is often simple and local in style.
* Ferries generally depart around mid morning from Heraklion to Santorini & Athens.
* An additional nights accommodation is suggested in Heraklion if travelling by ferry.
* It is approximately 3.5 hours drive between Heraklion and Chania.
* Flights are available from Chania or Heraklion to Athens daily. |
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