Crete has two main airports — Heraklion (HER) and Chania (CHQ) — plus a small eastern airport at Sitia (JSH). Here is how to reach your accommodation from each.
Your options
- Private transfer: a driver meets you at arrivals with a fixed price — the easiest option with luggage, families or late flights. Operators such as Crete VIP transfer partners monitor flights for delays.
- Taxi: readily available outside both airports; agree the fare or ensure the meter is used.
- Public bus: Heraklion and Chania airports connect to their city centres cheaply; onward KTEL buses serve the north-coast towns.
- Car rental: collect at the airport and drive straight out — best if you plan to explore (see the car rental guide).
Heraklion (HER)
About 15 minutes to central Heraklion; 1–1.5 hours to Rethymno; longer to Elounda and the east.
Chania (CHQ)
About 20–30 minutes to Chania town; under an hour to Rethymno.
Tip
If you are arriving late or travelling with children, a pre-booked private transfer removes all the guesswork. Otherwise, picking up a rental car on arrival is usually the most flexible choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Heraklion airport to the city?
It is about 15 minutes by taxi or private transfer, and there is a frequent city bus. Many visitors collect a rental car at the airport instead.
Is there a transfer from Chania airport?
Yes — taxis and pre-booked private transfers serve Chania airport (CHQ), and a bus connects to Chania town in 20–30 minutes.
Plan with us: browse Crete region guides, compare ferries to Crete, reserve a car with a local Crete agency, or ask our AI trip planner for a custom Crete itinerary.
