The island of Crete has three airports, a small one in Sitia, an international airport in Chania, and Crete’s main airport in Heraklion.
Many people fly into Heraklion from other European cities, while many travelers coming from Athens also land in Crete’s capital. If you’re one of them, this article will show you how to get from Heraklion to Chania.
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How to Get from Heraklion to Chania in Crete
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Whether your plane lands in Heraklion or your ferry docks in Crete’s capital main port, you can easily reach Chania using the following methods described below.
Being both cities on the northern coast of the island, the trip is pretty straightforward, no matter what travel method you choose.
Let’s see now how to get from Heraklion to Chania and all the transport options you have.
Arriving at Heraklion
Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport is located under 10 minutes away from the center of Heraklion (about 6 km), while the Ferry Port of Heraklion is about 5 minutes from the center of town.
Many tourists landing in Heraklion choose to spend their holidays in Chania, a region home to some of Crete’s best beaches.
While Heraklion is in the center of the island, Chania is located to the west, about 140 kilometers from the airport of Heraklion.
The most important road on Crete, the National Road, runs along the north coast, connecting the easternmost city of Sitia, to the western city of Kissamos.
No matter what transport method you choose, this is the road you need to take to reach Chania from Heraklion. And the length of the trip will mostly depend on how you decide to get there. These are your options:
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Before You Make Up Your Mind…
Depending on your budget, but also on your travel style and likes, you can get to Chania from Heraklion either with public transport or with a private car.
Taxis are probably the most expensive way to get there while renting your own car can prove a cost-effective solution since it will also let you explore the rest of Crete at your own pace and without trusting buses and schedules.
Bear in mind, that bus travel is really easy when it comes to reaching cities and villages on the north coast of the island while getting to popular places in the south, such as Elafonisi, Loutro, Preveli, Matala, Ierapetra, or Plakias can be more difficult.
Oftentimes there are no buses connecting smaller villages, and a car becomes indispensable unless you have an unlimited budget to spend on taxis.
When it comes to buses, remember that services don’t often run very late at night or very early in the morning, so don’t forget to plan accordingly and always check this website for further accurate information.
How to Get from Heraklion to Chania by Bus
One of the most cost-effective ways to get to Chania from Heraklion is to get the bus. It leaves hourly from Heraklion’s Central Bus A (New building – Efesou Street). The station is just a few meters from the port.
The bus connecting the Airport of Heraklion with the Central Bus Station leaves you right behind the Station. It’s a frequent, convenient service (the bus has ample space for luggage), and the ticket is under €2.
Once there, head to Heraklion’s Bus Station ticket office to purchase your ticket to Chania.
There are buses covering the Heraklion-Chania route every hour, this frequency can increase during the high season, depending on the demand. The service is reliable and quite affordable.
A ticket Heraklion-Chania is €15.10 one way. Buses usually depart on the hour, and always keep your ticket with you during the whole trip since ticket controls on the bus are not rare.
Buses from Heraklion to Chania leave every hour, starting from 5.30 in the morning. The last bus departs every night at 9 pm.
According to the official website, the trip is 2 hours and 45 minutes, however, it can be up to 3 hours with heavy traffic (sometimes even more, especially in summer).
The bus makes a few stops along the way, being the city of Rethymnon the most important one. During the stop, you’re not allowed to leave the bus for long (always ask the driver first if you need to get off the bus).
Those traveling with plenty of time and a flexible schedule can easily stop in Rethymnon for an afternoon or a couple of days, and then continue their trip to Chania.
Always check with the controller on the bus or at Heraklion’s Bust Station (before your departure) whether your ticket will still be valid or if you need to buy a new one.
Traveling with a pet: Traveling by bus with your pet, according to the official website of the bus company, the itineraries on which two escort animals are accepted within the passengers’ area are the ones departing at 5:30, 09:30, 11:30, 14:30, 17:30, and 21:30.
Luggage restrictions: Passenger luggage must be placed in the luggage compartment of the bus. Each passenger can carry 2 pieces of luggage for free.
There is an extra charge for every extra piece of luggage. Small pieces (hand luggage, backpacks, etc.) can be taken on the bus but must be placed in the special luggage racks inside the bus.
WiFi: All buses offer a free Wi-Fi network service, powered by external GSM antennas and advanced free Wi-Fi routers. There is free Wi-Fi access inside the bus stations as well.
Discounts: Discounted rates are available for students, families with more than 3 children get a 50% discount on all routes.
People with disabilities have the same discount. Infants until 6 years old travel free of charge. Credit cards and debit cards are accepted to pay for all tickets.
Refunds: In case you pay a ticket and you don’t travel, the company gives the passenger a 70% refund of the ticket price or a refund of 50% in case of a cancellation within 8 hours before departure time.
More info: Information for passengers is available daily from early morning to late at night on the phone at 2810-246530.
You can also call to learn about the timetable by calling this number 2810-245020 with an answering machine 24 hours a day. Here are more details about bus travel in Crete.
How to Get from Heraklion to Chania by Taxi
It’s also possible to reach Chania from Heraklion by taxi. You can take a taxi at the airport of Heraklion or the port of Heraklion.
The 140-km trip can take about 2 hours (always depending on the traffic and the season), and the ride can cost anything from 180 to 200 euros.
It is always advisable to discuss and agree on the price with the driver before you get into the taxi.
Taxis are a good way to get to Chania if you arrive late at night, when there’s no bus service available, or when sharing the cost with other travelers.
Remember that it’s not odd for taxi drivers to charge an extra fee for night rides.
How to Get from Heraklion to Chania with a Private Pre-Booked Transfer
Pre-booked transfers are always more convenient than taxis since you can arrange the price beforehand and book online before your trip.
A driver will be waiting for you at the port or the airport and will take care of your luggage. Since everything will be arranged before the trip, you won’t need to bargain for the price.
Prices can go from €150 to €180 depending on the company and the number of passengers.
For your peace of mind, it’s also a good idea to book the return trip in case you’re flying out of Crete also from Heraklion Airport.
How to Get from Heraklion to Chania by Car
Hiring a car is probably the best way to get from Heraklion to Chania. Driving will allow you to stop all the times you want, and to reach Chania at your own pace.
I’ve written a complete guide with tips and suggestions about car rental and driving in Crete. Don’t forget to check it before making up your mind.
Driving from Heraklion to Chania is quite straightforward too. You will be driving along the National Road for about 2 hours.
And of course, you can make a stop not only in Rethymnon but at any other village you find on the way.
A note on fuel: Most gas stations close at 7 pm but some others usually stay open much later, especially the ones located on the highway. Ask the locals for information.
Some stations accept credit cards but it’s always a wise idea to have some cash with you, just in case.
There’s no self-service option in Crete, the staff will fill your vehicle and you will pay either him or inside the shop.
Remember: Unfortunately, you cannot buy fuel with your credit card automatically once the station is closed.
Experts say that…
Lead-free petrol can be found everywhere.
Regular unleaded petrol has an octane rating of 91 or 92 while the octane rating of super is 96 or 98.
Unleaded super petrol has an octane rating of 95.
How are you planning to get from Heraklion to Chania this season?
Read more about Crete
More resources to enhance your Crete adventure
Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.
When it’s time to plan, explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, and be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches. If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion, Rethymnon, Lasithi, and Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.
Suggested accommodation in Crete
No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these places to stay:
- Heraklion: So Young Hostel ($), Capsis Astoria ($$), Galaxy Hotel ($$$).
- Chania: Cocoon City Hostel ($), Porto Antico ($$), Hotel OFF ($$$).
- Rethymnon: Matthias Hotel ($), Archipelagos Hotel ($$), Avli ($$$).
- Agios Nikolaos: Villa Galini ($), Hotel Port 7 ($$), Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$$).
More useful travel resources
- Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
- Find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
- Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
- To book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I recommend Get Your Guide for its flexible cancellation policy.
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About me:
I have lived in Chania, Crete, since 2016. As a local, I have an intimate knowledge of the Crete. I host culinary and concierge tours and experiences in Crete and write about the island for several travel media. During the last five years, I have helped many travelers plan the perfect holiday in Crete. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.
Hello!
Do we need to book our bus tickets from Heraklion to Chania far in advance?
Thank you!
it depends on what month you’re traveling, normally a couple of days in advance will be enough if you’re traveling in July or August.
We are considering taking a flight from santorini to chania. However the connection times we are finding are quite short. 45 min – do you think this is ok or we shd book a longer connection flight
It depends on the month, to be honest, during the high season with crowded airports, it can be a bit of a tight bet.
Hello, thank you for this article.. It was well written and answered my questions (although am flying into Xania so will do it in reverse).
I do have another question though. We are staying near the port. I cannot tell walking distance from the port to the Archaeological museum. Is it an easy stroll or better to take a taxi?
I am an expat resident of Antiparos Island.. If you need info on this area.. Delos, Mykomos, Paros, Naxos, Santorini.. Happy to return the favor!!
Hi! Thanks for writing!!
Yes, you can totally do it in reverse, it’s exactly the same!
If you’re talking port of Heraklion to Archaeological museum, it’s a moderate walk, no need for a taxi unless you’re in a rush. You will have to walk about 10 minutes Look here
If you’re talking port of Chania, from the old town port is 5 minutes to Chania Archaeological Museum, and the only way is to walk, because it’s a pedestrian area, instead, if you mean the port of Souda, either you need a taxi or catch a bus that comes to the city and leaves you close to the Central market.