Distances in Crete: driving times between cities and beaches
How far apart the main towns and the most famous beaches of Crete are, and how long the drive takes. Times are for normal traffic without stops.
| Route | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|
| Heraklion - Hersonissos | about 25 km | 25 min |
| Heraklion - Rethymno | about 80 km | 1 h 10 min |
| Heraklion - Chania | about 140 km | 2 h |
| Heraklion - Agios Nikolaos | about 65 km | 55 min |
| Heraklion - Ierapetra | about 100 km | 1 h 30 min |
| Heraklion - Sitia | about 135 km | 2 h |
| Heraklion - Matala | about 70 km | 1 h 15 min |
| Chania - Rethymno | about 60 km | 50 min |
| Chania - Kissamos | about 40 km | 40 min |
| Chania - Balos | about 55 km | 1 h 30 min (the last part is a dirt road) |
| Chania - Elafonisi | about 75 km | 1 h 45 min |
| Chania - Chora Sfakion | about 75 km | 1 h 30 min |
| Rethymno - Agia Galini | about 60 km | 1 h |
- In July and August add 20 to 30 percent to these times around Heraklion and Chania.
- South coast and mountain roads are slow. 50 km can take more than an hour.
- By KTEL bus, add roughly half an hour to an hour on longer routes.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Chania to Heraklion?
About 140 km and roughly 2 hours on the north coast road.
How far is Elafonisi from Chania?
About 75 km, roughly 1 hour 45 minutes by car on mountain roads.
Distances and times are approximate. Last checked: 22/10/2026.