Top Scenic Drives You Must Experience in Chania and Crete   Recently updated !


Crete is full of wonder. It has blue seas, green hills, and warm sun. The roads in Crete take you to amazing places. Some roads lead to the beach. Others go up to the mountains. Each drive feels like a small trip of its own.

If you want to explore Crete your way, rent a car. With MYTHOS Car Rentals, it’s easy. You can pick up your car at Chania Airport or Heraklion Airport. No deposit. No extra fees. Just grab the keys and go.

Here are the top scenic drives you should take in Chania and across Crete.

1.Chania to Theriso Gorge

Distance: 16 km

Drive Time: 30 minutes

This road is close to the city. But once you start, it feels wild. Trees hang over the road. A stream flows by your side. You may see goats, too!

Things to see:

  • Tall cliffs on both sides
  • A cool forest road
  • The village of Theriso with old cafés and tasty food

It’s a short drive but very special.

2.Chania to Omalos Plateau

Distance: 60 km

Drive Time: 1.5 hours

Want to see the mountains? This is your road. It winds up and up into the White Mountains. The air gets fresh. The views get big.

What you’ll love:

  • Quiet roads with few cars
  • Little villages with old homes
  • The start of the Samaria Gorge hike

Bring a jacket. It’s cooler up there!

3.Chania to Balos Lagoon

Distance: 60 km

Drive Time: 1.5 hours

This drive takes you to a dream beach. You will drive to Kissamos, where you can take the ferry to Balos Lagoon – a blue pool of calm sea and soft sand.

.It is not allowed to drive to Balos with our cars, because it is a dirt road and the insurance does not cover you there. You are only allowed to drive on the asphalt

Best parts:

  • Views that look like postcards
  • A short hike to the water
  • Great for photos and swims

Start early. It gets busy later in the day.

Car hire Chania

4.Vrisses to Chora Sfakion via Imbros Gorge

Distance: 37 km

Drive Time: 1 hour

Begin in Vrisses, a sweet green village. Drive through the narrow Imbros Gorge. Then head down to Chora Sfakion, a quiet town by the sea.

What makes it great:

  • Big rock walls next to the road
  • Goats crossing the road
  • A beach with soft waves and seafood

This drive gives you both hills and the sea.

5.Chora Sfakion to Anopolis

Distance: 12 km

Drive Time: 30 minutes

This road is fun. It’s full of curves and turns. You go up fast, and the sea stays below.

Look out for:

  • Sharp bends with deep views
  • Small chapels by the road
  • A peaceful mountain village at the end

It’s a short trip but a thrill.

6.Akrotiri Peninsula Loop

Distance: 30 km

Drive Time: 1 hour

Want a mix of sea and culture? Try this loop near Chania. You’ll visit beaches, a monastery, and get sunset views.

Stop at:

  • Stavros Beach, where Zorba the Greek was filmed
  • Agia Triada Monastery, full of calmness and color
  • Venizelos Tombs, high view above Chania

It’s perfect for a slow afternoon.

7.Sitia to Vai Beach

Distance: 24 km

Drive Time: 40 minutes

This is a quiet drive in East Crete. The road is smooth and calm. At the end, you’ll find Vai Beach, with palm trees and soft sand.

Why go here:

  • Less people
  • A visit to Toplou Monastery on the way
  • Relax under real palm trees

It’s great for a full day out.

Why Rent with MYTHOS Car Rentals?

  • Pick up at the airport
  • No deposit, no extra fees
  • Full insurance included
  • Lots of cars to choose from

With MYTHOS, renting a car is simple. You get clear prices and great service.

Tips for Driving in Crete

✔ Start your trip early

✔ Stop for food in small villages

✔ Watch out for goats on the road

✔ Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen

✔ Use your camera often – every turn is beautiful

Final Thoughts: Go Where the Road Leads

Crete is made for road trips. One day, you’re in the hills. Next, you’re by the sea. Each road has something new to show you.

When you rent from MYTHOS Car Rentals, you get freedom. No waiting. No hassle. Just you, your car, and the open road.

So don’t wait. Book now. Your next story starts with a drive.