Chania International Airport serves as Greece’s main gateway to the island of Crete. Located just a few kilometers from the city center, it handles flights from Europe and beyond during peak travel seasons. The airport operates year-round with scheduled services connecting major hubs such as Athens, London and various European cities. Facilities include ticket counters, baggage claim areas, rental car desks, cafes, shops and basic transport links to the town center via taxi or bus. Services are straightforward, making it easy for travelers to start their exploration of Crete efficiently.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common, especially in urban areas. However, many small shops and rural locations still prefer cash payments.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Greece. In restaurants, 5-10% is typical, though rounding up is also common. Tipping taxi drivers is customary, and small tips for hotel staff are appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally allowed in Greece, especially in designated areas or during festivals. However, it’s prohibited in some areas like public transport or near schools. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places. There are designated outdoor smoking areas in most restaurants and public buildings. |
| Easter (March/April) |
Easter is a significant religious holiday, and many businesses close. Popular for family gatherings and church services. |
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| Assumption of Mary (August) |
A national holiday with parades and festivities. Expect crowded tourist areas and higher accommodation prices. |
| Christmas (December) |
Christmas celebrations take place in many towns and cities, with lively events, though many businesses close for the holiday. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Beat, TaxiBeat, Uber |
| Other: | Greece is a popular tourist destination, particularly in summer, so be prepared for high demand for accommodation and services during peak months. |
Chania International Airport is located about 14 km from the city of Chania, one of Crete’s most beloved towns and it handles millions of passengers each year, especially in the tourist-heavy summer months. It features both domestic and international flights, with a recently renovated terminal combining modern architecture with local touches that reflect the island’s culture.
Visitors appreciate the airport’s cleanliness, efficient check-in and signage, although the terminal can feel cramped during peak season, with queues growing long in immigration and security areas. The airport amenities include several cafes, small shops and car rental services, though shopping options are limited compared to larger European airports.
Getting from the airport to Chania city or the surrounding resorts is convenient with taxis, car rentals and local buses, but travelers should be cautious of unofficial taxi operators and confirm fares upfront. Traffic around the airport can be heavy in peak season, potentially lengthening travel times.
Chania enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making the airport well-situated to serve tourists year-round. Overall, it offers a warm welcome to Crete’s diverse landscapes, historical sites and vibrant culture.
Situated inside the terminal, the VIP Lounge offers comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, newspapers, and televised news. Access is available for business class travellers and by paid entry, providing a calm and upscale environment away from terminal crowds.
Chania and its nearby resorts offer a wide range of accommodations, from luxury boutique hotels and seaside villas to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many visitors opt to stay in the old town of Chania or along the coastline for easy access to both urban attractions and natural beauty.
To Chania City Center:
Approximately 14 km from the airport, Chania city is reached via taxi or bus within 20-30 minutes. Official taxis operate with metered rates, but negotiating beforehand is common. Local buses connect the airport to the city centre on a regular schedule, offering an affordable option for travellers.
To Elafonissi Beach:
Located around 75 km southwest, Elafonissi Beach can be reached via hire car or organised tours from Chania. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours through scenic routes. Public transport options are limited, making private transport preferable.
To Rethymno:
About 60 km east of the airport, Rethymno is accessible by hire car or local buses that connect Chania and Rethymno frequently. Travel time is approximately 1 hour. Buses provide a budget-friendly transport option for visitors.
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