Car Rental Crete

Crete may be smaller than its Mediterranean neighbors of Sicily and Sardinia, but it still offers plenty of attractions to explore in your rental car. If you’re arriving by air, you’ll likely start your journey at one of the island’s main airports – Heraklion, on the north coast just a short drive from the island’s capital, or Chania, near Souda Bay to the west.

Heraklion enjoys easy road connections to the island’s main resorts via National Road 90, also known as the A90 - the only highway on Crete. It skirts the north coast of the island from Kissamos in the west to Agios Nikolaos in the east.

You can use this road from the airport to reach destinations including Rethymno, around 50 miles west, and Hersonissos, just 12 miles to the east. Chania is around 90 miles from Heraklion along the same route.

The A90 forms the southernmost part of the European Route 75, which runs all the way down the continent. In many parts the route is a dual carriageway, with a speed limit of 90km/h (56mph). In other parts of the island, especially in towns and other built-up areas, the maximum speed falls to 50km/h (30mph).

The main cities and resorts of Crete are almost all located on the north coast. If you’re planning to visit the south, you’ll be rewarded with unspoilt scenery, quiet fishing villages and peaceful beaches such as Preveli, surrounded by beautiful palm trees.

The roads in this part of the island are much less developed, though, so you’ll find some narrow and winding mountain routes with blind bends and long gravel stretches. Plan your trip in advance and always take local advice, because some routes are not accessible to vehicles except 4x4s.

With mountain landscapes, heavenly beaches and historical treasures, Crete has much to offer any visitor. Here’s a quick guide to just some of the highlights you’ll discover in your rental car.

Ancient capital

Situated just a short drive from Heraklion, Knossos is an unmissable stop on any visit to Crete. This was the Minoan capital of the island during the Bronze Age. Today, you can still see its 4,000-year-old palace, home to King Minos and the Minotaur in Greek mythology.

First excavated in the early 20^th century, parts of the site have been impressively restored. Head inside to see its ancient chambers and courtyards, as well as vibrant replicas of the frescoes that once adorned the walls.

Follow up your visit with a trip to the Archaeological Museum in nearby Heraklion, where you can see artifacts excavated from the site along with many more of the island’s precious historical treasures.

Harbor strolls

Just a short drive from Heraklion, on the north-west coast, you’ll find Chania. One of the biggest cities on the island, it has a  bustling old town packed with cafés and restaurants where you can sample the famous Cretan cuisine.

But the real star of any visit to Chania is its historic harbor, built by the Venetians in the 14^th century. Walk along the promenade to admire the historic battlements and lighthouse, then enjoy lunch with a view as you watch local fishermen bring in the catch of the day.

From Chania, it’s easy to reach another historic gem - Rethymno. Home to perhaps the best-preserved old town on the island, it boasts a maze of cobbled streets, archways and Renaissance buildings. Walking up to the town’s hilltop fortress rewards you with panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding coastline.

Sun, sea and sand

No Crete vacation would be complete without a trip to the beach. Whether you want to relax and soak up some sunshine or are looking for something a little more active, this island has beaches to suit any visitor.

Perhaps the most popular choice is Elafonisi, on the south-west coast. This islet is accessible on foot via the sand bars that lies in calm, shallow waters. Famous for its white and pink sandy beaches, with spectacular views of the island’s mountain scenery, it’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Arrive early if you’re visiting during the peak summer season. 

If you want to get away from the crowds, try the region of Lassithi on the east side of the island. Here you’ll discover secluded spots like Milatos, a tiny fishing village with a peaceful pebbled beach where you can relax away from the bustle of the big resorts.

This part of the island is also home to the palm forest beach of Vai and Kato Zakros, a scenic bay surrounded by dramatic cliffs and colorful plant life. You won’t find the same facilities here as the bigger tourist destinations – there are no umbrellas or sunbeds – but if you’re looking for relaxation and peace of mind, it’s the perfect destination to visit in your rental car.