Crete travel guide: how to get there and how to get around
Crete is the largest Greek island, about 260 km from end to end. Here is how to get there by plane or ferry, which airport to choose, and how to move around by car, bus or taxi.
By plane: three airports
- Chania (CHQ) for western Crete: Chania, Kissamos, Balos, Elafonisi, Sfakia.
- Heraklion (HER) for central and eastern Crete: Heraklion, Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos. It has the most flights.
- Sitia (JSH) for the far east: Sitia, Vai, Zakros. Few flights, mostly from Athens.
- Rethymno has no airport. Chania and Heraklion are both about an hour away.
By ferry from Piraeus
| Route | Company | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Piraeus - Heraklion | Minoan Lines, ANEK Superfast / Blue Star, Seajets | about 9 to 10 hours, Seajets about 7.5 hours |
| Piraeus - Chania (Souda) | ANEK Superfast / Blue Star | about 9 hours |
| Piraeus - Sitia | ANEK Superfast / Blue Star | about 14 hours, a few times a week |
All Crete ports and ferry routes · Which Piraeus gate for Crete
Getting around Crete
| Option | Good for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Rental car | Beaches, villages, gorges, day trips | The most flexible way to see Crete. Book early for July and August. |
| KTEL bus | Travel between cities and big resorts | Frequent on the north coast. Few or no buses to remote beaches in winter. |
| Taxi | Airport and port transfers | Good for short trips. Long distances get expensive. |
| Boat | Balos, Gramvousa, south coast villages | Seasonal boats, mainly from Kissamos and Chora Sfakion. |
Frequently asked questions
Which airport is best for Crete?
Chania for western Crete and Heraklion for central and eastern Crete. Heraklion has the most flights. Sitia is only useful for the far east of the island.
Do I need a car in Crete?
Not for the cities, which are well connected by KTEL buses. For beaches, villages and gorges a car makes life much easier.
How long does it take to drive across Crete?
Chania to Heraklion is about 2 hours and Heraklion to Sitia another 2 hours, mostly on the north coast road (BOAK).
Is there a ferry from Athens to Crete?
Yes. Ferries leave Piraeus every day for Heraklion and Chania (Souda), usually overnight, in about 9 to 10 hours.
Times and fares can change because of works, strikes or events. Always check the official source before you travel: e-ktel.com, ktelherlas.gr and the ferry companies. Last checked: 22/10/2026.