Crete Chania Airport

The Chania International Airport ‘Ioannis Daskalogiannis’ (IATA code: CHQ) is one of the two airports on the island of Crete and is located on the Akrotiri peninsula in the west, just 14 kilometres from the city of Chania and close to Souda Bay. Its strategic location on the northern coast of Crete offers arriving passengers beautiful views of the Lefka Ori Mountains and the Aegean Sea during landing.

Less crowded than Heraklion Airport, Chania Airport has year-round connections with daily flights to and from Athens and Thessaloniki, plus direct flights from major European airports from late April to late October.

Connections to the centre of Chania

Buses

The public bus service is the cheapest option to reach the centre of Chania from the airport. The K.T.E.L. line operates regular services with a frequency of about 30-60 minutes during the tourist season, while in the low season the services are less frequent and synchronised with the arrivals of the main flights.

Buses depart from the bus stop located just outside the arrivals terminal, which is easily identified by signs. The journey to the central bus station of Chania takes about 25-30 minutes. It is important to bear in mind that bus timetables may vary according to the season, so it is advisable to check departures in advance on the official K.T.E.L. Chania website or at the airport information desk.

Taxis

Official taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal and are generally blue or grey.

The fare to the centre of Chania is around €25-30 during daytime hours and €35-40 during night-time hours (00:00-5:00), with a journey time of around 20-25 minutes in normal traffic conditions. Cretan taxi drivers generally accept payment in cash, while credit cards may not be accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash with you.

During the high season, you may find long queues at taxis, especially during peak hours when several flights arrive at the same time. To avoid waiting, you can book a taxi or private transfer service in advance.

Private transfer

An alternative to TAXIs is to book in advance a private transfer to or from Chania Airport airport. A driver will pick you up at the airport arrivals (thus avoiding taxi queues), at your hotel or wherever you prefer, to take you to the desired address.

It is the best solution if you do not want to waste time, do not want to use public transport, have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. To book a private transfer to or from Chania Airport airport visit this site.

Rent a car

Renting a car is the ideal option for exploring Crete on your own, given the vastness of the island and the presence of numerous beaches and archaeological sites that are not easily accessible by public transport. Chania Airport hosts several car rental offices, both international and local companies, located within the arrivals terminal.

Prices vary significantly depending on the season, rising sharply during July and August. It is therefore highly advisable to book well in advance during the summer to ensure availability and competitive rates.

To rent a car in Crete we always recommend comparing the rates of all companies with DiscoverCars because in our opinion it offers the best prices, allows cancellation up to 48 hours before rental and offers a very cheap comprehensive insurance policy.

Arrivals and Departures

Recommended hotels

Below is a list of recommended hotels near Crete Chania Airport.