Road trip ideas close to Heraklion: A guide for unique excursions!
The beautiful and cosmopolitan Heraklion attracts many tourists annually who come to Crete for the ultimate holiday experience. If you have visited Heraklion before, you surely know that the city is big and has everything you want and need for your summer holidays. However, whether you're a local or coming to the island for the first time, there are many destinations near Heraklion that are definitely worth visiting.
With Carwiz by your side, you don't have to worry about your transportation around the island. Organize excursions near Heraklion, find the rental vehicle that meets your needs, and travel around Crete in comfort and safety.
Keep reading below and get some inspiration for your next road trips from Heraklion.
Fodele
One of the most beautiful villages near Heraklion, Fodele is the ideal destination for exploration and relaxation in a mesmerizing natural environment. Travel by road to Fodele with a rental car from Heraklion and arrive in a traditional village full of orange groves, plane trees and running waters. Apart from the natural beauty of the landscape in Fodele, you can also visit the Museum of El Greco to admire the works of the famous Greek painter, Domenikos Theotokopoulos.
The village is fully accessible by car, but don't forget that the distances are long and public transportation on the island is difficult, especially during the summer season. In case you arrive in Crete by plane, you can rent a car from Heraklion airport, pick up your vehicle and start exploring!
Archanes
A village full of colours, mansions and local sights. In Archanes you will take a walk, snap the most beautiful photos with the background of the coloured windows and enjoy your coffee in the village square.
If you want, you can make a stop at the Archaeological Museum of Archanes where findings from the surrounding area are hosted or walk around the settlement to see the bell tower and the stone-built churches. Put Archanes on your list of the best destinations for excursions from Heraklion and step on the gas for new adventures.
Knosano Gorge
Crete is famous for its gorges and generally for its rich and vast natural landscape. If you find yourself in Heraklion, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the Knosano Gorge for a hike or just to enjoy your walk through the landscape.
Keep in mind that the gorge is a continuation of Mount Juktas, running through the village of Archanes and ending near Knossos. It is one of the most famous natural attractions in Heraklion and every year it attracts many nature lovers as it is not difficult and you don't need to bring along any special equipment or experience. For more comfort and to combine your routes, choose car rental from Heraklion port.
Agia Pelagia
We saved the best for last. Agia Pelagia is a seaside settlement with a picturesque atmosphere, small taverns and a unique coastline. The beach in Agia Pelagia is one of the most famous beaches near Heraklion, popular for its crystal clear waters and velvety sand.
The settlement is an ideal choice for families with young children and for those who wish to organize short excursions from Heraklion. Alternatively, if you have chosen Chania as your base for the holidays, Carwiz offers you the opportunity for car rentals in Chania so that you can shorten the distances and enjoy your trips to the fullest.
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, can serve as a starting point for excursions to nearby destinations. Schedule your routes and take advantage of your days on the island to see as many places as you can.
If you're looking to rent a car from Chania airport or search to rent a car in Rethymno, all you have to do is complete your reservation from the Carwiz website.