Itinerary for 11 day trip to Creta

Crete is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 11-day itinerary that balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Heraklion

Morning: Arrive at Heraklion Airport. Settle into your family-friendly hotel.
Afternoon: Explore Heraklion’s vibrant city center. Visit the to see artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Kids will love the stories of ancient myths!
Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local taverna. Try some Cretan specialties like moussaka or dakos.

Day 2: Knossos and Heraklion

Morning: Head to the , the legendary home of King Minos. The kids will be fascinated by the myths of the Minotaur!
Afternoon: Return to Heraklion and visit the . It’s engaging and has interactive exhibits for children.
Evening: Stroll along the waterfront and grab some gelato for dessert!

Day 3: Rethymnon

Morning: Drive to Rethymnon (about 1 hour). Explore the charming old town with its Venetian architecture.
Afternoon: Visit the . The views are stunning, and the kids can run around the open spaces.
Evening: Dinner in the old town. Try some fresh seafood or a traditional Cretan feast.

Day 4: Beach Day at Plakias

Morning: Head to (about 30 minutes from Rethymnon). It’s family-friendly with shallow waters.
Afternoon: Enjoy a beach day! Rent umbrellas and sunbeds, and let the kids play in the sand.
Evening: Have dinner at a beachside taverna. Watch the sunset while enjoying local dishes.

Day 5: (or a Family-Friendly Hike)

Morning: If your family is up for it, take a guided hike through the . It’s a bit challenging, so consider a shorter hike if needed.
Alternative: If hiking isn’t ideal, explore the , which is more manageable for families.
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax. Have a casual dinner nearby.

Day 6: Chania

Morning: Drive to Chania (about 1 hour). Explore the picturesque harbor and the old town.
Afternoon: Visit the . It’s engaging for kids and adults alike!
Evening: Dinner in the harbor area. Try some local Cretan wine while the kids enjoy a hearty meal.

Day 7:

Morning: Take a day trip to (about 1.5 hours). The pink sand and shallow waters are perfect for families.
Afternoon: Spend the day swimming, building sandcastles, and enjoying the sun.
Evening: Head back to Chania and have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

Day 8:

Morning: Take a boat trip to . The views are breathtaking, and the water is perfect for swimming.
Afternoon: Explore the lagoon and enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach.
Evening: Return to Chania and relax. Have a light dinner or some snacks.

Day 9: Agios Nikolaos and Elounda

Morning: Drive to Agios Nikolaos (about 2 hours). Visit the beautiful .
Afternoon: Head to Elounda and take a boat trip to , a former leper colony. The kids will find the history intriguing!
Evening: Dinner in Elounda with views of the sea.

Day 10:

Morning: Explore the . Visit the , where Zeus was born. It’s a fun adventure for the family!
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local taverna and try some traditional Cretan dishes.
Evening: Return to Agios Nikolaos for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a leisurely dinner.

Day 11: Departure

Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a last stroll around Agios Nikolaos.
Afternoon: Head to Heraklion Airport for your departure. Reflect on all the wonderful memories made in Crete!

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

Always have snacks and water on hand for day trips.
Consider renting a car for flexibility.
Look for family-friendly accommodations with pools or play areas.
Engage the kids with stories about the places you visit to make it more exciting!

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Crete! Enjoy your family adventure! 🌞🏖️