Travelling Guide from Heraklion to Chania: Car rental, Bus, Taxi, Airplane
Heraklion and Chania are both magnificent, scenic, and must-visit cities in Crete. Each city has a lot of each side to offer. From restaurants, hotels, tourist attractions, and people. Surely a stay in Heraklion and Chania will give you peace, and appreciate how beautiful the island of Crete is only in the eyes of Heraklion and Crete. Heraklion is the capital of Crete. As such, it is a much bigger city compared to Chania. However, Chania is famous around Crete and Greece for its incredible architecture. Nonetheless, Heraklion is also authentic. When deciding to travel from Heraklion to Chania, worry no more because travelling 102 kilometres (64 miles) away from Heraklion to Chania has been so easy and convenient with a lot of modes of transportation options available.
Renting a car, taking the bus, booking a taxi transfer, or even booking a connecting flight and layover in Athens are among the options you have when planning to get to Chania from Heraklion. However, please note that a plane ride is an impractical option because of how costly it is and will not directly land in Chania. Chania is 102 kilometres (64 miles) away from Heraklion, thus, it may take 2 to 3 hours to get to Chania from Heraklion. Travellers should expect light traffic when travelling from Heraklion to Chania. Food and accommodation should also not be a problem because both Heraklion and Chania offer the best and affordable restaurants and hotels around the corner. Moreover, it is safe to travel from Heraklion to Chania. Your trip will surely be worth it because of the scenery along the way.
What is Heraklion?
Heraklion is the major city and capital of Crete. Heraklion is the most visited place in Crete. It is situated between Rethymno and Lassithi on the eastern side of the island. Heraklion’s latitude and longitude coordinates are 35.341846, and 25.148254. Crete’s lovely capital, Heraklion Town, is one of the busiest cities on the island. The Knossos Palace and Phaistos Palace, two of the most significant Crete landmarks, are located in the Heraklion region. The main town still has a storybook feel to it despite having an often crowded city centre. The Koules fortress, the Venetian harbour, Turkish and Venetian fountains, Venetian structures, the Venetian Loggia and museums including the archaeological museum, historical museum, and the Museum of Natural History may all be seen while strolling through the town. But if you are not a huge fan of sightseeing, you may consider visiting the lovely beaches. Amazing beaches line the region’s northern and southern coasts, including Matala Beach, Agia Pelagia, and Malia, which was once a hippie haven.
How to get from Heraklion to Chania?
Chania and Heraklion are two cities located on the northern coast of Crete. Travelling to Chania from Heraklion will cover 102 kilometres. There are a number of options that can be considered when wanting to get to Chania from Heraklion. Travel options include car rental, plane ride, bus ride, and Taxi transfers. However, it is best to experience the travel from Heraklion to Chania with a tour on the side. Availing the tours will get you the best historical and educational experience. Getting to Chania from Heraklion has become so simple and easy. The easiest way to get from Heraklion to Chania is by renting a car. Aside from having flexibility, convenience, comfort, and exclusivity of the journey are also achieved.
Listed below are the ways to get from Heraklion to Chania.
- Car Rental: Going around Heraklion and travelling to Chania is just a breeze using a rented car. Car rental Crete is one of the prominent car rentals on the island. It is a lot more convenient and provides more flexibility. Most car rental companies offer online booking for faster transactions.
- Plane Ride: A plane ride is among the fastest modes of transportation. Long-distance travellers have a wonderful transportation option in planes. There are no direct (nonstop) flights between Heraklion and Chania. You can choose the number and length of layover along your route, including an overnight stay. However, there is no direct flight from Heraklion to Chania. Tourists will have to stop for a layover in Athens before coming to Chania.
- Bus Ride: Taking the bus from Heraklion to Chania is among the most economical methods to travel. The coaches are air-conditioned, modern, and comfortable. The tickets are affordable. Heraklion is connected to the rest of Crete by regular bus lines run by two KTEL (Kino Tamio Eispraxeon Leoforon) companies for western and eastern Crete. It departs hourly from Heraklion’s Central Bus A.
- Taxi transfer: Taking a Taxi transfer from Heraklion to Chania is the quickest and most convenient option. A Taxi transfer is typically a pre-arranged transfer. This indicates that you had already planned the transfer before travelling to Heraklion. When you arrive at the airport, all of your luggage will be taken care of, and you will be driven directly to your intended location. Everything has been pre-arranged, so there will be no price wrangling.
1. Car Rental
If you are planning to explore Crete rather than just see the highlights, you will find that public transport is not always the best solution. In this case, your best bet would be to rent a car. Car rental Crete is one of the prominent car rentals on the island. Going around Heraklion and travelling to Chania is just a breeze using a rented car. It is a lot more convenient and provides more flexibility. Most car rental companies offer online booking for faster transactions. Car Rental Crete offers an easy way of renting a vehicle. One just needs to check out their website and follow the procedures. When renting a car in Crete, it is advisable to note the important factors. In order to rent a vehicle in Crete, a valid driving licence must be presented. The driver must be at least 21 years old. A credit or debit card with the driver’s name is an essential requirement. Choosing an appropriate car depends on the number of passengers. Visiting Heraklion using a rented vehicle makes travelling around more convenient and practical. Crete Car Rental for a week can cost around €250. Day trips and night trips in Crete will cost about €30 to €40. It can be used for a week with unlimited mileage and four-seaters. The rental cars are manual transmission, air-conditioned, and have four doors. The rented car should be returned to the company with the same amount of fuel as at the start of the trip to avoid charges.
| Car Rental Advantages | Car Rental Disadvantages |
| Convenience for international travellers | Early rent termination fees |
| Easy booking and payment | Generally higher insurance premiums |
| Budget travel |
Find below an image with Pros and cons of travelling from Heraklion to Chania by Car Rental.
2. Plane Ride
One of the fastest travels is via a plane ride. A plane ride is good alternative transport for long-distance travellers. Travelling between Heraklion and Chania, is only possible with a layover either in Athens or Thessaloniki. You can select the number of stops on your journey, including an overnight stopover, and the duration of the stopover. However, in the case of travelling to Chania from Heraklion, there is no available direct flight that can take you directly from Heraklion to Chania. Tourists that wish to visit Heraklion by plane ride have to book a connecting flight. A plane ride from Heraklion to Chania has a layover in Athens. Currently, tourists can fly between Heraklion and Chania (with a layover in Athens) with Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Sky Express and Volotea. A flight from Heraklion Airport to Chania will cost you around €141 per person or could be higher depending on the time, date, and season of travel. The choice of the airline company to fly with from Heraklion to Chania could also affect the cost. Airlines adjust prices for flights from Heraklion to Chania based on the date and time of your booking. However, it is observed that the lowest flight prices are usually on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
| Plane Ride Advantages | Plane Ride Disadvantages |
| High speed | Long Layover |
| Efficient | Costly |
| Convenience | May experience delayed or cancelled flight |
Find below an image with Pros and cons of travelling from Heraklion to Chania by Plane.
3. Bus Ride
If you don’t mind taking the bus, it’s a quick and affordable way to travel from Heraklion to Chania. Regular bus services run by the KTEL (Kino Tamio Eispraxeon Leoforon) firms for western and eastern Crete connect Heraklion with the rest of the island. Taking the bus from Heraklion to Chania is among the most economical methods to travel. The coaches are air-conditioned, modern, and comfortable. The tickets are also affordable. Heraklion and Chania are two cities situated on the northern coast of Crete, 102 kilometres (64 miles) apart. It departs from Central Bus A in Heraklion every hour. The bus journey can take 2 to 3 hours to accomplish due to curvy mountain routes. One of the least expensive methods is to take a bus from Heraklion to Chania, which typically costs between €10 and €15. Every hour, beginning at 5:30 in the morning, buses depart from Heraklion for Chania. Every night, the last bus leaves around 9 o’clock. However, depending on the demand, the number of journeys from Heraklion to Chania may rise during the busy season. Bus transportation is dependable and reasonably priced. The city of Rethymnon is the most significant of the bus stops along the route. You may easily get off and explore for a few hours before boarding a later bus to Chania.
| Bus Ride Advantages | Bus Ride Disadvantages |
| Cost-effective | Buses are often overcrowded |
| Service is reliable | Make frequent stops |
Find below an image with Pros and cons of travelling from Heraklion to Chania by Bus.
4. Taxi transfer
For those who want to make travel arrangements in advance or who are travelling with a large group of friends or family, a Taxi transfer is a great choice. Taking a Taxi transfer from Heraklion to Chania is the quickest and most convenient option. A Taxi transfer typically involves making a reservation. This implies that you have to arrange the transfer before arriving at Heraklion. This means that when you arrive at the airport, all of your bags will be handled, and you will be driven to a certain location, all of which have been pre-arranged and are free of price haggling. For four people, a Taxi transfer from Heraklion to Chania costs less than €155. On the other hand, prices differ based on the company and the number of passengers. A Taxi transfer will make your trip from Heraklion to Chania convenient, comfortable, and hassle-free.
| Taxi transfers Advantages | Taxi transfers Disadvantage |
| Quick and easy | Pricey |
| Hassle-free | |
| Exclusive travel |
Find below an image with Pros and cons of travelling from Heraklion to Chania by Taxi.
What is the best way to get from Heraklion to Chania?
Car rental is the best way to get from Heraklion to Chania. Going around Heraklion and travelling to Chania is just a breeze using a rented car. It is a lot more convenient and provides more flexibility. Most car rental companies offer online booking for faster transactions. Car Rental Crete offers an easy way of renting a vehicle. Car rental Crete is one of the prominent car rentals on the island. Car rental is the best way to get from Heraklion to Chania since it gives you independence during your trip. Renting a car to get to Chania from Heraklion will allow you a lot more freedom and flexibility during your schedule, likewise, allows you to reach the off-the-beaten-path beaches, villages, and churches that are not serviced by public transport. The greatest advantage that a car rental could give to a tourist wanting to get to Chania from Heraklion is flexibility and time control. Surely, every euro spent will be compensated by the comfort, convenience, and flexibility of renting a car to get to Chania from Heraklion.
What are the tours from Heraklion to Chania?
Most people heading to the Greek island of Crete will spend some time in Heraklion. Whilst there, it is possible to take a number of different tours to see other parts of the island. There are notable Heraklion tours that can be availed of when in Heraklion and Chania. One of those is a tour from Heraklion to Chania, Lake Kournas and Rethymno. Depart Heraklion and journey west by bus to the stunning city of Chania. Heraklion: Chania, Lake Kournas and Rethymno Tour in Heraklion is a day trip that will let you explore the northwest coast of Crete on a bus tour from the Heraklion area. You will get panoramic views of the sea, and visit the cities of Chania and Rethymno. Look for rare species of wildlife in the protected wetlands of Lake Kournas and more. Aside from that, sightseeing may also be done in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Palace of Knossos. This sightseeing will help you experience Ancient Crete and see fascinating artefacts. Moreover, the tour will let you gain valuable insight into the daily lives of ancient Cretans.
How far is Heraklion to Chania?
Chania is 102 kilometres (64 miles) away from Heraklion. Chania and Heraklion are two cities on the northern coast of Crete. Car rental, plane ride, bus ride, and a Taxi transfers are among the ways of transportation options available when wanting to travel from Heraklion to Chania. It is worth noting that the best way to get to Chania from Heraklion is by car rental. Going around Heraklion and travelling to Chania is just a breeze using a rented car. It is a lot more convenient and provides more flexibility. Car rental Crete is one of the prominent car rentals on the island. The greatest advantage that a car rental could give to a tourist wanting to get to Chania from Heraklion is flexibility and time control. Surely, every euro spent will be compensated by the comfort, convenience, and flexibility of renting a car to get to Chania from Heraklion.
How long will it take to get from Heraklion to Chania?
The distance between Heraklion and Chania is 102 kilometres (64 miles). Depending on how you travel, it will take between 2 and 3 hours to get to Chania. When taking public transport, the bus that will bring you to Chania from Heraklion leaves every hour. The first bus departs at 5:30 in the morning while the last bus departs at 9 P.M. When travelling via a rented car, it will also take 2 to 3 hours but the best thing about travelling via a rented car, you own your time. Thus, allowing you to take stops, and letting you appreciate the beauty of Crete. When travelling via Taxi transfers, it will also take at most 2 hours. A Taxi transfer is pre-arranged, thus it will take you directly to Chania from Heraklion. Moreover, when taking a plane ride to get to Chania from Heraklion, it will take almost 4 hours including the flight time of your layover in Athens. Therefore, making it impractical to travel via plane. Tourists may expect light traffic when travelling to Chania from Heraklion.
What are the best Restaurants in Heraklion and Chania?
Heraklion serves palatable and delicious foods. When visiting Heraklion, feast your eyes on the best food that the capital of Crete has to offer. There are a couple of restaurants in Heraklion and Chania that are worth visiting. Kouzeineri, Peskesi Restaurant, and Pagopoieion Creative Bar Restaurant are among the Restaurants & Places to Eat in Heraklion. Kouzeineri proudly calls itself the best steakhouse in the city, offering huge portions of each beautifully served steak, pleasant lounge music, and quick service. Kouseineri is situated directly in the heart of the city and has reasonable prices. Peskesi Restaurant is a must-try restaurant in Heraklion if you want a plate of authentic Cretan tastes. Peskesi Restaurant offers the experience of authentic local traditions integrated into the dishes it serves since all the dishes are cooked with fresh, local ingredients. Lastly, Pagopoieion Creative Bar Restaurant is a café and restaurant where you can spend a great time of the day. Pagopoieion Creative Bar Restaurant specialises in traditional recipes with an ethnic touch and original creations. On the other hand, Chania has a lot to offer also in terms of food. Restaurants are everywhere, serving you dishes that will surely shock your taste buds. Tamam, Thalassino Ageri, and Maiami are among the restaurants that you should visit when in Chania. Tamam is a local restaurant with a unique vibe. Tamam’s menu offers simple Mediterranean food, with some traditional Greek dishes and local specialities. Thalassino Ageri is only 2 kilometres away from the harbour. Thalassino Ageri sits in one of the most scenic locations in Chania, right on the beachfront. The food in Thalassino Ageri is equally good, serving modern and gourmet Mediterranean cuisine. And lastly, Maiami offers simple and delicious staples from Mediterranean cuisine, a touch of art, and Cretan wines from Manousakis Winery. Surely you’ll have a good time visiting these restaurants in Heraklion and Chania.
What are the best Hotels in Heraklion and Chania?
For a complete experience, staying in Crete requires choosing the best possible accommodation. Heraklion and Chania are not only home to mouth-watering restaurants, but also have the best hotels around the town. Heraklion, Dom Boutique Hotel, Domus Ariadne, and Porta Medina Boutique Hotel are one of the best hotels around the town. Dom Boutique Hotel is in a premium location, close to the oldest part of the town. Dom Boutique Hotel is a slick, cream-and-pine boutique in Heraklion that has a Bohemian appeal softened up by retro details such as crocheted pouffes, botanical art and glossy houseplants. Domus Ariadne is close to the Archaeological Museum and Venetian Harbour, which comes into its own at sunset. Domus Ariadne is a stylish, minimalist design hotel in Heraklion that pushes the boat out with Art Deco touches from circular mirrors to curved enclaves and sharp black-and-white edges. Lastly, Porta Medina Boutique Hotel has a rustic feel thanks to exposed stone-built walls, stripped-back floors and wooden doors and staircases. Rooms stand out for their little touches such as fresh fruits or flowers. On the other hand, Querini Luxury Suites, Ambassadors Residence Boutique Hotel, and Hotel Off are among the best hotels in Chania. Querini Luxury Suites is an excellent place to stay in Chania with a lovely sunroof and hot tub. There is also public parking that is about a 3-minute walk from the hotel, which is best for those who are driving from Heraklion to Chania. Ambassadors Residence Boutique Hotel is a high-quality hotel with an excellent location and accommodating staff. The rooms which overlook the harbour have a stunning view. Lastly, Hotel Off is a great hotel where the old and new co-exist in lovely harmony. The rooms, the terrace, the courtyard, and the breakfast in Hotel Off are superb. There’s no need to worry about resting after a day in Heraklion and Chania since both offer competitive, beautiful, clean, and the best hotels around.
Is it easy to get from Heraklion to Chania?
Yes, it is easy to get from Heraklion to Chania. Getting to Chania from Heraklion is simple and easy. When getting to Chania from Heraklion, expect to travel 102 kilometres (64 miles). With the available transport options of a car rental, bus ride, plane ride, and a Taxi transfer, getting to Chania from Heraklion is definitely easy. However, it is recommended to take a land base transport when getting to Chania from Heraklion because it is impractical to take a plane ride by having to stay for a layover in Athens. The time it takes to get from Heraklion to Chania is approximately around 2-3 hours, depending on what transportation you will take.
Is it safe to travel from Heraklion to Chania?
Yes, it is safe to travel from Heraklion to Chania. In general, Crete is safe. Crime rates in Crete are typically low, just like in any other part of Greece. Since there are many police officers on the island, assistance is never far away should an accident occur. And like other Mediterranean islands that you may have visited, Crete is thought to be a secure tourist destination.
Last updated on October 22nd, 2024
