KTEL buses in Crete: stations, main routes and tickets
Crete has two bus companies. Here is which one goes where, where the stations are, how long the main trips take and how to buy tickets.
The two KTEL companies
| Company | Covers | Website |
|---|---|---|
| KTEL Chania - Rethymno | West Crete: Chania, Rethymno, Kissamos, Falassarna, Elafonisi, Omalos (Samaria), Sfakia, Paleochora, and the route to Heraklion | e-ktel.com |
| KTEL Heraklion - Lasithi | Central and east Crete: Heraklion, Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, Sitia, Matala | ktelherlas.gr |
Bus stations
- Heraklion, main station: next to the port, about a 5 minute walk from the ferries. Buses for the east and the north coast.
- Heraklion, Chanioporta station: by the Chania Gate, for some routes to the south and inland villages.
- Chania: in the centre, at Kydonias and Kelaidi streets, a short walk from the old town.
- Rethymno: on Kefalogiannidon Street, near the seafront.
Main routes and travel times
| Route | Bus time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Heraklion - Rethymno | about 1 h 30 min | frequent, all year |
| Heraklion - Chania | about 2 h 30 min to 3 h | frequent, via Rethymno |
| Chania - Rethymno | about 1 h 15 min | frequent, all year |
| Heraklion - Agios Nikolaos | about 1 h 30 min | frequent, via Hersonissos and Malia |
| Chania - Kissamos | about 1 h | frequent |
| Chania - Elafonisi | a full day trip | summer only |
| Chania - Omalos (Samaria Gorge) | about 1 h 15 min | early morning, May to October |
Tickets
- Buy tickets at the station ticket office, or online on e-ktel.com and ktelherlas.gr.
- On the phone screen your e-ticket is enough, no need to print.
- In July and August book long trips (for example Chania - Heraklion) in advance.
- Big luggage goes in the hold under the bus at no extra cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the bus from Heraklion to Chania?
Check the current fare on e-ktel.com, where you can also book a seat. The trip takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Is there a bus to Balos?
No. Buses go to Kissamos, and from Kissamos port you take a boat to Balos in summer.
Do buses run in winter in Crete?
Yes between cities, but beach and village routes are reduced or stop.
Times and fares can change because of works, strikes or events. Always check the official source before you travel: e-ktel.com and ktelherlas.gr. Last checked: 22/10/2026.