Welcome to Crete! Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, collect your rental car and begin your drive to Elounda, one of Crete’s most exclusive coastal enclaves. Check into your seaside hotel and unwind by the pool or stroll along the marina. This evening, enjoy dinner at a waterfront taverna overlooking the Mirabello Gulf. Overnight in Elounda.

After breakfast, consider a short drive to Plaka village, where boats depart to Spinalonga Island, once a Venetian fortress and later a leper colony, now a symbol of endurance and beauty. In the afternoon, explore Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town built around a deep-blue lake lined with cafés and boutiques. Return to Elounda for an evening at leisure. Overnight in Elounda. (B)

Depart Elounda and drive south-west along the coast to Heraklion, Crete’s capital. En route, visit the legendary Palace of Knossos, home of the Minotaur and Europe’s oldest civilisation. In the afternoon, stroll through Heraklion’s old quarter, visit the Archaeological Museum, or sample local wines at a nearby vineyard. Overnight in Heraklion. (B)

Enjoy a leisurely day to explore more of the region at your own pace. Recommended excursions include a drive to Archanes village for wine tasting and traditional lunch, or the beaches of Matala, famous for their cliffside caves. Evening free to dine in Heraklion’s atmospheric old port district. Overnight in Heraklion. (B)

After breakfast, continue west to Rethymno, one of Crete’s most charming towns. Check into your resort and spend the afternoon exploring the Venetian Harbour, Rimondi Fountain, and old quarter with its blend of Ottoman and Renaissance architecture. In the evening, enjoy a seaside dinner and a stroll along the promenade. Overnight in Rethymno. (B)

A day at leisure to enjoy Rethymno’s beautiful surroundings. You may drive to the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan freedom, or venture south through olive groves to Preveli Beach, where a palm forest meets the Libyan Sea. Return to your hotel for sunset drinks overlooking the Aegean. Overnight in Rethymno. (B)

After breakfast, take the scenic drive along the north coast to Chania, often called “the Venice of Crete.” Check into your beachfront resort, then explore Chania’s Old Town, a maze of alleys filled with artisan shops, cafés, and Venetian mansions. Don’t miss the harbour lighthouse, one of Greece’s most photographed landmarks. Overnight in Chania. (B)

A full day to explore Crete’s spectacular western region. You may wish to drive to Balos Lagoon, with its turquoise shallows, or Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sands and crystal waters. For a taste of local life, visit Therisso village for mountain views and hearty Cretan cuisine. Return to Chania for a final evening at leisure. Overnight in Chania. (B)

Breakfast at your hotel before driving to Chania Airport to return your car and check in for your onward flight. Farewell to Crete, an island of myth, flavour, and unforgettable beauty. (B)