• 5 days worth of honest recommendations, not marketing.
• Discover gorges, ghost towns, secret beaches, and mountain tavernas.
• Rent with AUTOWAY, the top-rated Crete car hire company with over 3,000 reviews

Crete isn’t just beaches.

It’s wild mountains, forgotten villages, and hidden coves. With a car rental from AUTOWAY, you can explore the authentic side of Greece’s largest island at your own pace. This 5-day road trip through Sfakia in southern Crete brings you face-to-face with the island’s soul, guided only by your curiosity and the open road.

Day 1: Chora Sfakion and Sweetwater Beach

Begin your Crete car hire adventure by heading south to Chora Sfakion, a quiet harbor village that opens onto the Libyan Sea. From here, either hike or catch a boat to Sweetwater Beach, where fresh springs bubble up through the sand. Spend the day swimming and relaxing before returning for dinner.

For local seafood, Taverna Nikos is a traveler favorite, while Livikon Taverna on the promenade offers classic Cretan dishes with a sea view. Neither is affiliated with AUTOWAY – both are simply beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Google Maps link for Glyka Nera – Sweetwater Beach trip: here is a link of this day trip!

Day 2: Aradena Gorge and Mountain Villages

Drive your rental car inland to the Aradena Gorge and cross the dramatic steel bridge, one of the tallest in Europe. Visit the haunting, abandoned village of Aradena, then continue up to Anopolis, surrounded by the White Mountains.

Stop for a midday break at Platanos Taverna, a family-run place with panoramic views, or enjoy rustic flavors at Anopoli Tavern, hidden among olive trees and wild herbs.

Google Maps link for Day 2 Aradena trip: here is a link of this day trip!

Day 3: Frangokastello and the Kallikratis Road

Spend your morning at Frangokastello, where a Venetian-era fortress rises right on the sand. The shallow waters are perfect for a swim before your drive inland. Take the scenic Kallikratis road, one of the most thrilling in Crete with its winding curves and epic views.

End your day at Taverna Vatalos, known for local ingredients prepared with care, or try T’armi tou Kallikrati, offering mountain dishes in a peaceful setting.

Google Maps link for Day 3 Frangokastello and Kallikratis trip: here is a link of this day trip!

Day 4: Loutro by Sea

Park your rental car back in Chora Sfakion and take the boat to Loutro, a village with no roads and no cars. Spend the day kayaking, swimming, or enjoying the quiet charm of its whitewashed houses.

Dine by the water at Stratis Taverna, famous for its views and seafood, or sample traditional dishes at Kyma Restaurant, especially the local cheese pies and fish stew.

Google Maps link for Day 4 Loutro by Sea: here is a link of this day trip!

Day 5: Lappa, Askifou Plateau and the White Mountains

Drive inland to the Ancient Lappa and off to the Askifou Plateau, a serene valley surrounded by mountains. Visit the small war museum and enjoy local specialties like cheese pies and raki. The return loop through the White Mountains is a scenic finale to your adventure.

For a farewell meal, try Panorama Traditional Sfakian Restaurant, where goat stew is slow-cooked to perfection, or stop at Nektarios Taverna for one last taste of Cretan hospitality.

Google Maps link for Day 5 Lappa and Askifou by Sea: here is a link of this day trip!

Crete reveals its true character when you explore it by car.

That is not marketing, its reality.

Skip the crowds and discover the island’s hidden side with AUTOWAY, the trusted local car rental company travelers have relied on since 1986. With rental insurance included and more than 3,000 five-star reviews, booking is the best way to start your journey.