The Ultimate 8-Day Crete Itinerary By Car

Falasarna is a magnificent stretch of golden sand approximately 50 minutes from Chania by car. Unlike many beaches in Crete, Falasarna is expansive – nearly 3 kilometers long – offering plenty of space even during peak season. The beach consistently ranks among Europe's top beaches for its pristine waters and clean shoreline. With convenient parking right by the beach and no steep paths to navigate, Falasarna offers exceptional accessibility for all visitors, including families with small children and those with mobility concerns.

Local Tip: One crucial factor to consider when visiting Falasarna is the wind conditions. The beach's western exposure makes it susceptible to strong winds, particularly in the afternoon. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as windy conditions can significantly impact your beach experience. Mornings generally offer calmer conditions, so consider arriving early (before 10 AM) for the most pleasant experience.

Falasarna offers excellent facilities including sunbeds and umbrellas for rent (approximately €10 for a set), clean restrooms, and several beachside tavernas. Active visitors will appreciate the water sports options available, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing when conditions are right. The northern end of the beach is perfect for those seeking a quieter experience away from the organized sections.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Falasarna, located just behind the southern end of the beach. This ancient harbor city dates back to the 6th century BC and features remains of the harbor, fortifications, and various buildings – a fascinating glimpse into Crete's rich history.

After your beach day, stop by Grambousa Restaurant on your way back to Chania. Perched on a hillside with panoramic views of the Cretan Sea, this family-run establishment offers one of the best sunset dining experiences in western Crete. Gramvousa Restaurant specializes in traditional Cretan cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. Their menu highlights authentic Cretan dishes such as lamb with honey, rabbit, local greens, and vegetables prepared with extra virgin olive oil and herbs. We particularly recommend trying their “dakos” (a Cretan bruschetta with tomato, feta, and olive oil) and their signature meat dishes. No reservation is needed, but arriving before sunset ensures you'll get the best view tables.

Today you'll explore some of Crete's most impressive natural wonders on the southern coast. The journey to Kourtaliotiko Gorge (also called Kotsifou Gorge) takes you through spectacular mountain scenery and traditional villages, making the drive itself a memorable experience. This lesser-known gorge offers breathtaking landscapes without the crowds of more famous Cretan gorges.

Local Tip: When you reach Kourtaliotiko, park at the small canteen near the white church at the gorge entrance. From here, take the stairs down and you'll face a choice of paths. We strongly recommend taking the left path first - a 10-minute walk downhill that leads to serene river pools where crystal-clear water flows peacefully through the gorge. Take time to enjoy the tranquility and the impressive rock formations that tower above you.

After exploring the left path, return to the junction and follow the right path, which leads to the gorge's true highlight – a series of cascading waterfalls, hidden swimming holes, and a remarkable cave. The path requires moderate fitness as it involves some scrambling over rocks, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views. Particularly adventurous visitors should consider exploring the cave, which requires a brief swim through cold river water (approximately 8°C/46°F). Once inside, you'll discover a natural cathedral of stalactites illuminated by filtered light. Note that this swim isn't recommended for those with heart conditions due to the sudden temperature change.

After exploring Kourtaliotiko Gorge, drive approximately 20 minutes to Preveli Beach and Palm Forest, one of Crete's most unique natural attractions. This extraordinary location features a river (Kourtaliotis River) flowing through a lush forest of native Cretan date palms (Phoenix theophrasti) before meeting the Libyan Sea. These rare palm trees are found in only a few locations in the Mediterranean.

Park in the main lot (€3 fee) and follow the stone steps down to the beach. The descent takes about 15-20 minutes and offers spectacular panoramic views of the coastline, but wear proper shoes as flip-flops can be treacherous on the steep path. Once at the beach, you can either relax on the unique black and white pebbles by the shore or venture upstream into the palm forest.

Walking along the river through the palms is a magical experience – the contrast between the lush, tropical-looking vegetation and the surrounding arid landscape creates an otherworldly atmosphere. Follow the river upstream for about 20 minutes to discover natural freshwater pools perfect for swimming away from the sometimes crowded beachfront. The cool river water provides a refreshing alternative to the warmer sea.

Facilities at Preveli are basic, with a few seasonal canteens offering refreshments and umbrella rentals, but prices tend to be higher due to the remote location. We recommend bringing your own supplies, including plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Plan to spend at least 3 hours here to fully appreciate both the beach and the palm forest before making the climb back up to the parking area.

Seitan Limania (which translates to "Devil's Harbor") is one of Crete's most photogenic and dramatic beaches, located on the Akrotiri Peninsula just 35 minutes from Chania. Despite its proximity to the city, this small, stunning cove feels remote and wild due to its location at the bottom of a narrow gorge with towering limestone cliffs that rise dramatically on three sides.

The journey to Seitan Limania includes a narrow, winding road with spectacular views of the Cretan Sea. Drive carefully, especially on the final stretch, which has several tight turns with limited guardrails. The small parking area at the end of the road fills quickly during summer months, so arriving before 9:30 AM is essential – by 11:30 AM, finding parking becomes nearly impossible.

From the parking area, a steep, rocky path descends to the beach. The hike down takes about 10-15 minutes and requires proper footwear – no flip-flops or sandals. The path can be challenging for those with mobility issues or young children, but the view that greets you at the bottom is worth the effort – a tiny cove of almost luminous turquoise water nestled between massive cliff walls.

The beach itself is very small – no more than 40 meters long – with coarse sand and small pebbles. Due to its compact size, Seitan Limania gets crowded quickly, another reason to arrive early. The water deepens rapidly, making it perfect for swimming and cliff jumping (from the lower rocks only – the high cliffs are dangerous), but less suitable for young children.

The crystal-clear waters offer excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with the surrounding cliffs creating a natural aquarium effect that attracts various marine life. The dramatic setting makes for incredible photos, especially in the morning when the light illuminates the turquoise water against the ochre-colored cliffs.

Be prepared for a strenuous climb back up, especially in the midday heat. Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at the beach before making the ascent. For a delicious meal afterward, head to Mitsos BBQ or Bourakis Tavern, both located in nearby Kounoupidiana. Mitsos BBQ is loved for its grilled meats like lamb chops and kontosouvli, served in generous portions with a friendly vibe. Bourakis offers a cozy atmosphere with tasty local dishes such as eggplant rolls and meat platters. Both spots are great choices to unwind with authentic Cretan flavors.

Balos Lagoon is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece, featuring a stunning natural landscape where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet pink-tinged sand and white shorelines. Located on the northwestern tip of Crete, this breathtaking destination draws thousands of visitors each year who come to experience its shallow, warm lagoon and dramatic backdrop of Cape Tigani.

There are two main ways to reach Balos Lagoon. The first is by car from Chania (about 1 hour 20 minutes), but it's important to note that the last 8 km of the road is unpaved and rough. Most rental car companies, including ours, do not allow driving on this dirt road as it is not covered by insurance. If you're considering driving, please contact us first — a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended and required in most cases. An environmental fee (€1) is collected at the entrance, and from the parking area, a 20-minute downhill hike with panoramic views leads to the beach.

The alternative is to take one of the daily boat tours departing from Kissamos port (a 40-minute drive from Chania). These boats cost around €35 per person and include stops at both Balos and the nearby uninhabited island of Gramvousa. While convenient, the boat option gives you less flexibility and means you'll be at the lagoon during peak hours (usually 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM) when it's most crowded.

The Balos Lagoon itself is a shallow, warm-water paradise ideal for wading and relaxation. The unusual geography creates a natural pool effect where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Cretan Sea. The striking color contrast between the white and pink sand (colored by crushed shells) and the multi-hued blue and green waters creates a scene that seems almost unreal – which explains why Balos is often featured in travel magazines and Crete tourism campaigns.

Photographers will want to capture the panoramic view from the hiking path down to the beach, which offers the iconic postcard shot of Balos that appears in most travel guides. The lagoon is at its most photogenic in the morning hours when the sunlight illuminates the water colors most vividly.

Samaria Gorge, located in the White Mountains National Park, offers one of Crete's most spectacular natural experiences and ranks among Europe's premier hiking destinations. This 16km trek through the longest gorge in Europe provides unforgettable landscapes, from dramatic cliffs towering 500 meters high to the famous "Iron Gates" narrow passage where the canyon walls close to just 4 meters apart.

Hiking the Samaria Gorge is a must-do experience in Crete, but planning your transportation is essential due to the hike being one-way. The trail starts at Xyloskalo near Omalos and ends in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, which has no road access.

Option 1: Public Transport (Recommended)

1. Bus from Chania to Omalos: KTEL buses depart early in the morning from Chania’s central bus station to the gorge entrance at Omalos (Xyloskalo).
2. Hike the Gorge: The trail takes around 5–7 hours depending on your pace.
3. Ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia: After the hike, take the ferry to Chora Sfakion.
4. Bus from Sfakia to Chania: A KTEL bus waits at Sfakia to return you to Chania in the afternoon.

Option 2: Self-Driving (Not Recommended)

If you prefer driving, you can reach Omalos by car, but due to the one-way nature of the hike, getting back to your car is logistically challenging.

1. Drive from Chania to Omalos: Park your car at the gorge entrance.
2. Hike the Gorge: Reach Agia Roumeli on foot.
3. Ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia: Instead of going to Sfakia, take the ferry to Sougia.
4. Bus from Sougia to Omalos: KTEL operates a bus from Sougia back to Omalos (check schedules carefully).
5. Drive back to Chania: Retrieve your car and return.

The hike begins at Xyloskalo (the "wooden staircase") entrance with a steep descent of wooden steps. The trail then follows the riverbed through the gorge, passing abandoned settlements including Samaria village at the halfway point. The terrain varies from rocky paths to stream crossings (wooden bridges are in place during high season), with drinking water available from natural springs along the route.

Upon completing the hike, you'll reach Agia Roumeli, a charming coastal village accessible only by foot or boat. Here, you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea and enjoy a well-deserved meal at one of the local tavernas. Ferries depart Agia Roumeli in the late afternoon (around 5:30 PM) to Sougia or Chora Sfakion (Sfakia), where KTEL buses connect back to Chania, completing this circular journey.

For those seeking a less crowded experience, consider visiting in May, early June, or late September when temperatures are moderate and the gorge sees fewer hikers. Regardless of when you visit, starting early is crucial - both to avoid the midday heat and to ensure you reach Agia Roumeli in time for the last ferry. If you prefer to drive yourself to Omalos but don't want the logistical challenge of retrieving your rental car, several companies in Chania offer car drop-off services specifically designed for Samaria Gorge hikers.

Explore the hidden gems of South Crete's Libyan Sea coastline on this adventurous day trip to areas accessible only by boat. Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Chania to Chora Sfakion (commonly called Sfakia), a picturesque harbor town on Crete's rugged southern coast. The route takes you through the impressive Imbros Gorge area, with numerous viewpoints worth stopping at along the way for photos of Crete's mountainous southern landscape.

Upon arriving in Sfakia, you have two excellent options for continuing your journey. Adventure seekers can rent a small motorboat (approximately €200/day including fuel, no boating license required) for maximum flexibility to explore the coastline at your own pace. Alternatively, take the passenger ferry to the car-free village of Loutro (€10 one-way, 20-minute journey), a postcard-perfect settlement of white-washed buildings against turquoise waters that can only be reached by boat or on foot.

The highlight of this coastal adventure is Marmara Beach with its magnificent white marble sea caves. From Loutro, you can either take a water taxi (€15 per person round trip) or navigate your rental boat east along the coastline for about 15 minutes. The crystal-clear waters inside these naturally formed marble caves create an otherworldly swimming experience with breathtaking light effects as sunlight filters through the translucent rock and reflects on the water's surface.

After exploring the sea caves, return to Sfakia by late afternoon and complete your authentic South Crete experience with a memorable dinner at Nektarios Tsitsiridis Tavern. This traditional family-run establishment offers a unique dining concept with no menu – they simply serve whatever fresh local ingredients are available that day, typically featuring outstanding Sfakian specialties like wild goat and hand-made cheese pies. More info here.

Wrap up your Cretan road trip with a tranquil visit to Lake Kournas, the only natural freshwater lake on the island and a protected wetland ecosystem. Located between Rethymno and Chania, this serene destination offers a refreshing contrast to Crete's beaches and makes for an ideal final day excursion. The drive from Chania follows the northern coastal highway before turning inland through picturesque olive groves and small villages of the Apokoronas region.

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the striking turquoise waters of the lake set against the backdrop of the White Mountains. The lake changes colors throughout the day, from deep blue to emerald green, depending on the sunlight and viewing angle. Rent a paddleboat (approximately €10 per hour) to explore the lake's 579,000 square meters of crystal-clear waters, where you might spot freshwater turtles, water snakes, and various bird species that make this protected Natura 2000 site their home.

The shallow edges of Lake Kournas are perfect for a refreshing swim, particularly welcome during Crete's hot summer months. For those who prefer dry land, a well-maintained walking path circles part of the shoreline, offering different perspectives of this natural wonder and excellent photo opportunities of the surrounding mountains reflected in the calm waters.

Several authentic tavernas line the eastern shore of the lake, offering panoramic dining with unobstructed water views. Kournas Taverna stands out with their exceptional locally-sourced dishes and homemade wine produced from nearby vineyards. Their traditional meze platters feature Cretan specialties like dakos (barley rusk topped with tomato and mizithra cheese), dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), and fresh grilled fish – the perfect farewell meal to your Cretan adventure.

Before heading back to Chania, take time to browse the local pottery shops and small boutiques near the lake entrance, where artisans sell handcrafted souvenirs using traditional Cretan designs. With convenient parking and easy road access, Lake Kournas offers a relaxing conclusion to your self-drive exploration of western Crete's diverse landscapes.