How to get from Heraklion to Chania? Cheapest to Fastest Ways!

Heraklion is Crete’s largest city and also the island’s capital. Many travelers from different countries first arrive at Heraklion International Airport. If you’re one of those who are wondering how to get from Heraklion to Chania, then this guide is for you. 

Whether your airplane lands at Heraklion Airport or your boat docks in Crete’s main port, you may reach Chania with any of the methods mentioned below.

Realistic transfer options from Heraklion to Chania

Before anything else, it’s important to note that Heraklion and Chania are located at opposite ends of the island. Therefore, the journey is expected to be long. 

Heraklion and Chania are 103.88 kilometers apart. This distance is equivalent to 64.55 miles. Travel time from Heraklion to Chania is estimated to be 2 hours and 5 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The modes of transportation you can take are either public bus, taxis, private transfer, car rental, or chauffeur services. 

Public Bus 

If you want to save on money, taking a bus is a good option since it’s relatively cheap. Heraklion has two bus stations, Bus Station A, which is near the Old Port, and Bus Station B, right in the old city’s walls at the start of 62 Martyrs street. If your destination is Chania, head to Bus Station A. From there, you can purchase a ticket and head directly to Chana. 

Buses from Heraklion to Chania depart every hour, beginning at 5.30 a.m. The last bus leaves at 9 p.m every night. The trip may take 2 hours and 45 minutes since stopovers are made along the way. However, it can take up to 3 hours in heavy traffic (sometimes even more, especially during summer). The cost of a bus ticket is around 14 EUR. 

Although a bus is the cheapest option, some people prefer the comforts and privacy of a taxi.

Taxi

If taking a public bus isn’t your thing, a taxi to Chania will do the trick. Taxis can be found anywhere in Heraklion’s city center. There is also a taxi stand outside the arrivals area in Heraklion International Airport. 

Taking a taxi from Heraklion to Chania will take around 2 hours. However, travel time may be affected by traffic conditions. The estimated cost of a taxi trip to Chania is around 170-180 EUR. Get a real time quote here.

Finding a taxi can be tiring, especially after a long flight. With all that luggage to carry, it can be daunting to do the heavy lifting. As such, a private transfer might be a better choice. 

Private Transfer 

A private transfer, unlike taxis, can be booked in advance. You set up a pick up and drop off location and a driver will be provided to you once you arrive in Heraklion. 

Your driver will take you to Chania in a breeze and will even carry your luggage for you. It’s a good option as well if you’re traveling in large groups since you’re given the freedom to choose the kind of vehicle you need. You can either go for a van, SUV or even a minibus. 

The cost of a private transfer depends on the car you choose and the distance traveled but you can expect to pay anywhere between 120-150 EUR. Travel time, on the other hand, is around 2 hours.  Get a real time quote here.

A private transfer is the quickest way to get from Heraklon to Chana and vice versa.

If you’d like to make stops along the way, or travel at your own pace, renting a car is another alternative. 

Car Rental

Car rental is a common choice among travelers in Crete. Renting a car in Crete gives you the freedom to see the island at your own pace. This means you don’t have to worry about a driver waiting for you or missing your bus because you are traveling on your own.

There are many car rental companies in Heraklion. You can hire a car and drive to Chania, which will also take 2 hours. Depending on the car model you choose, a standard vehicle will start at 30 EUR per day, and may go up to 150 EUR. 

Renting a car will require you to have a license and an international driving permit (if your license isn’t issued from a European country). A security deposit may be needed too. Popular rental car groups in Heraklion are: 

• SUVs
• Sedans
• Minivans
• Convertible
• Hybrids
• 4x4s

If you don’t like driving but still love the freedom of traveling without any tight schedule, hiring a chauffeur is your best bet. 

Chauffeur / Car rental with a driver

Car rental with a personal driver is great if driving on unfamiliar roads makes you uncomfortable. A chauffeur service is like having a driver and tour guide all in one. They know the best places to visit and will take you there. They’ll be with you all throughout the trip and will help you carry your bags, making you feel like a true VIP. Therefore, getting from Heraklion to Chania by a chauffeur service is a reliable option.

Chauffeur services can be quite pricey, but given the advantages they hold, it’s pretty worth it. Chauffeur services in Crete depend on the company you choose, so be sure to call in advance for you to plan accordingly.

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