How to Get to Chania, Crete (2026)
Chania is the most accessible destination in western Crete, with its own international airport (CHQ) receiving direct flights from over 40 European cities in summer, and an overnight ferry connection from Athens that arrives in the morning.
By Plane - Chania International Airport (CHQ)
Chania Airport Ioannis Daskalogiannis (IATA: CHQ) is 15 km east of the city. Direct summer flights operate from London Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Vienna, Brussels, Warsaw, Stockholm, Athens, Thessaloniki and over 30 other cities. Airlines: easyJet, Ryanair, Aegean Airlines, TUI, Wizz Air, Sky Express and seasonal charters. From the airport: Bus Line 5 runs to Chania central bus station every 30 min, fare 2.50 euros. Taxis to Chania city: 20-25 euros; to Platanias resorts: 15 euros. Airport car hire desks: Avis, Hertz, Europcar and local agencies.
By Ferry - Athens (Piraeus) to Chania
ANEK Lines and Minoan Lines operate overnight ferries from Piraeus (Athens) to Souda Port (3 km from Chania city), arriving around 06:00-07:00. Journey: 8h 30m. Frequency: daily in summer, 5-6 times per week in winter. Fares from 38 euros deck class, 55-85 euros cabin. Souda Port to Chania city: Bus Line 12 (1.70 euros) or taxi (8 euros). Book at ferryhopper.com. Advance booking essential in July-August.
By Road - From Heraklion
Chania is 150 km west of Heraklion via the E75/A90 motorway - a comfortable 2h 30m drive or 2h 15m by express KTEL bus (departs Heraklion every 30 min in summer, fare 14 euros). Rethymno is only 60 km east - 1h 15m drive or 1h 20m by bus.
Getting Around Chania
The Chania old town and harbour are entirely walkable. Beyond the city, a hire car is strongly recommended: Elafonissi (75 km), Balos (70 km), Falassarna (57 km), Samaria Gorge (42 km to Omalos) and the south coast villages are not practical without one. Car hire from 30-50 euros per day from airport agencies or local city offices. KTEL buses serve the main towns (Kissamos, Platanias, Paleochora) but frequency drops sharply in shoulder season.
Airport Transfers - Chania
Pre-booked airport taxis offer fixed rates and are recommended for arrivals after midnight. Transfers to popular Chania-area destinations: CHQ to Chania Old Town approx 22 euros, CHQ to Platanias approx 18 euros, CHQ to Kissamos approx 55 euros, CHQ to Paleochora approx 90 euros. Book through your hotel or a local transfer company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct flight from London to Chania?
Yes - easyJet operates from Gatwick (2h 45m); Ryanair from Stansted and Manchester; and TUI from multiple UK airports. Flights run April to October; no scheduled winter service.
How far is Chania Airport from the city?
15 km east of Chania Old Town - about 20 min drive. Bus Line 5 takes 25 min (2.50 euros); taxi costs 20-25 euros.
Which is better - fly or take the ferry?
The ferry from Athens is a genuine experience (overnight, breakfast on board, arriving at a beautiful port). If time is short, fly. If you want to avoid baggage fees and experience the Cretan Sea, take the ferry.
Keep Exploring Chania
Ready to visit Chania?
Find the best hotels, villas and experiences in Chania, Crete.