Why Crete Is The Perfect Place For A Greek Road Trip

Why Crete Is The Perfect Place For A Greek Road Trip

If you’re looking to explore all the mystery, history, and luxury that Greece has to offer on a budget, then there are fewer better ways to do it than a Greek road trip. To get the best experience on the road, the island of Crete might just be the destination to explore.

A Coast of Wonders

Besides being the capital of the island, Heraklion is one of the best places to start on a Greek road trip because of the coastline absolutely replete with fantastic sights. You can land and get car rental in Crete Heraklion/Rethymno airport and from there it’s a short trip west to see sights like the gorgeous Ammoudara beach and the imposing Koules Fortress sitting stalwart on the sea. The Old Town, built by the Venetians, makes for an excellent coastal route, but you might want to get out of the car to explore the pedestrian-only areas full of lavish buildings for the old aristocracy, churches, and fabulous retail centers.

Europe’s Oldest City

You will want to take the southern route out of Heraklion for one major stop above all else. The ancient palace of Knossos is one of the finest standing monuments to one of the oldest civilizations known to man. The Minoan Cretans first occupied the area four thousand years before the Bronze Age began, and visitors can still explore the halls with a guided tour that explores the fantastic culture. From ancient frescoes to impressive advanced architecture for the age, it’s a trip into another world.

Party like a Cretan

The history of Crete is easily one of the most appreciable aspects of the island, but there’s a lot more to it, including the luxury and entertainment you would expect of an island with such a sunny climate and people. To find the best of it, head east. The nightlife of Hersonissos makes the city a must-visit stop for those who want to let their hair down, enjoy some music, and a sample of the island’s unique tastes. There are dozens of bars, restaurants, clubs, discos, and traditional taverns. The Status Club, in particular, is one of the trendiest spots on the whole island.

Where Old Meets New

Agios Nikolaos might be the perfect place to end your journey. A medium-sized town built on ancient remains, it has some of the best sunrise views you can hope to find on the island. It’s also a haven for tourists, mixing the bustling nature of the capital with a more artistic taste, a traditional culinary scene and lots of little boutiques to explore. Just off the coast and easily accessible by rental boats is Spinalonga, a place full of fascinating history, hounded by pirates and full of forts built by the Venetians.

Crete was seemingly made to be explored on four wheels. While Greek roads are stereotypically characterful, to put it politely, there’s ancient wonder and modern comfort to be found in every corner of the island, not to mention some of the most gorgeous coastal drives. There’s a lot more to be found than just what’s covered here, but these are certainly some highlights to start with.

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