✈ Transfer Options from Chania Airport to Rethymno

Q: How do I get to Rethymno from the airport?

You have three main options to travel from Chania Airport to Rethymno: taxi, bus, or private transfer. A taxi or private transfer typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, although taxis may sometimes involve a short wait time. The KTEL bus is the most budget-friendly option, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, not including any waiting time for departures.

Tucked away on the northern coast of Crete, is the Venetian harbour town of Rethymno. With its maze of cobbled streets, medieval fortress, and turquoise Aegean views, Rethymno is a popular destination for travelers looking for a Greek island with rich history, local culture, and lively tavernas, while also enjoying time to unwind by the sea.

When traveling from Chania Airport (CHQ) to Rethymno, you can choose from three main transfer options: you can take a Chania Airport taxi, a private transfer, or a bus. The distance from Chania Airport to Rethymno is approximately 73 kilometers. An official airport taxi can make the journey in 1 hour and 15 minutes in normal traffic. For a more premium experience, a Chania Airport transfer is the most convenient option. Some of the perks you will enjoy when you book with Welcome Pickups are a meet-and-greet in the Arrivals Hall, real-time flight tracking, and 24/7 customer support.

For a budget-friendly alternative, you can take the KTEL bus, which offers a direct service from Chania Airport to Rethymno. A one-way ticket costs €8 per person, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, there are only six departures per day, so be sure to check the schedule in advance to align with your flight arrival.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Crete at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€95	70min	24/7
Bus	€16	90min	06:00–00:00
Welcome Airport Transfer	€92	70min	24/7

How to take a taxi from Chania Airport to Rethymno

Taking a taxi from Chania Airport to Rethymno is one of the most convenient options for your transfer to the city. A taxi ensures you have a direct journey to your accommodation with no connections and eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport.

To take a taxi, simply exit the Arrivals Hall, and you will find the taxi stand. Taxis in Chania Airport are easy to recognise, with a blue exterior and classic rooftop taxi sign. Provided there is no line, you can reach your destination in 1 hour and 15 minutes.

How much does a taxi cost from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

The journey from Chania Airport to Rethymno is approximately 73 kilometers. Taxis in Crete are fitted with a taximeter, so the price will vary depending on the journey time. If there is no traffic, the cost of an official Chania Airport taxi for four passengers costs approximately €95. This price may increase if you arrive late at night. While some taxis accept card payment, there is no guarantee. It is always worth checking with the driver before starting your journey and carrying some euros in cash in case there are any issues with the machine.

If you prefer the peace of mind of an all-inclusive upfront cost, which you can pay in advance, and know that everything will be taken care of on the day, you can book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups. You’ll benefit from real-time flight tracking, a personalized meet-and-greet, and a fixed, up-front price that won’t increase if there is traffic or delays.

It is worth noting that extra charges for luggage may apply and the cost for travelling at night is higher.

Cost

€95

Trip Duration

75 Min.

*Rates may vary depending on the time of the day.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are always available at Chania Airport.

Where can I take a taxi from?

You’ll find the signature blue Chania Airport Taxis located just outside the Arrivals Hall exit. Once you have collected your luggage, you can walk through the exit doors, and you’ll see the taxi stand. Taxis are available 24/7, so you can head to your destination as soon as you land.

Convenience

Taxis offer a direct and reliable service making them one of the most convenient modes of transport. Although they are more expensive than public transport, they often save significant travel time making them worth the additional cost, particularly if you’re carrying heavy luggage and want to avoid transfers or wait times.

Editor’s Note

Chania Airport taxis have a 24/7 call center for your support. Download their mobile application to make a quick and easy reservation or to check out all the useful information.

Useful Tips

Ensure that the taximeter has been reset and turned on before starting your trip.

Always take a taxi from the official taxi ranks at the airport.

Be sure to bring cash in euros as often taxi drivers do not accept card payments.

Some taxis offer free WiFi during the ride.

There are special vehicles for people with disabilities but you have to book your taxi in advance and make a request.

Prices may increase on weekends, late at night and during major holidays.

How to get from Chania Airport to Rethymno by bus

The cheapest way to travel from Chania Airport to Rethymno is by taking the local KTEL bus. The service runs directly from just outside Chania Airport to the KTEL Rethymno Station in the city center. Unlike in some countries, the bus does not have a specific route number. It will typically be light green and marked “Rethymno” or “Souda–Rethymno” on the front display.

After collecting your luggage, follow the signs from the arrivals hall, and you’ll find the bus stop conveniently located just outside the terminal on the east side of the airport.

The service operates between 06:00 and 00:00, with around four to six departures per day, typically leaving every three hours. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it an affordable, straightforward way to reach Rethymno while enjoying views of Crete along the way.

How much is the bus from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

Tickets for the KTEL bus can be bought directly onboard the bus from the driver, at the kiosk next to the airport bus stop, or online. A one-way adult ticket for the bus from Chania Airport to Rethymno costs €8. Children aged 6 and under can travel for free. Students can get a 25% discount when presenting a valid student ID, while families and people with disabilities are also eligible for discounted tickets.

Cost

€8

Trip Duration

90 Min.

The average waiting time is 3 hours.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The direct bus runs from 06:00 to 00:00 every day.

Where do I catch the bus from?

The bus to Rethymno departs directly from Chania Airport, making it a convenient option for your onward journey. You will find the KTEL bus stop located right in front of the Arrivals Hall exit, just a short walk from baggage claim. There are clear signs throughout the airport guiding you to the bus stop. If you need assistance, the airport staff can direct you.

Convenience

When starting a trip, the last thing you will want to do is lose a full day in transit. With limited departures throughout the day, taking the bus is the least convenient option. While it is cheaper, if you are traveling with lots of luggage or in a group, taking a taxi or private transfer is likely worth the extra cost. Even if your flight coincides with a bus departure, if there are any delays and you miss it, you will end up waiting 3 hours for the next one, which is significant after a long travel day.

Timetables

KTEL Bus Timetable

Chania Airport - Rethymno

Editor’s Note

If you plan to pay your fare by card, check with your bank beforehand to ensure you won’t incur any foreign transaction fees.

Useful Tips

There is storage space below the bus for your luggage.

Always check out the timetable as it may change unexpectedly, especially during the summer season.

You can visit the KTEL website in order to buy your tickets online.

How to get from Chania Airport to Rethymno by private transfer

For travellers who value comfort and efficiency from the moment they land, a private transfer from Chania Airport to Rethymno is the ideal way to begin your time in Crete. In this instance, a private transfer arranged by Welcome Pickups is more affordable than a metered airport taxi, whilst also offering extra perks and a personalized service.

You’ll be greeted in the Arrivals Hall by a professional English-speaking driver who will assist you with your luggage and guide you to your air-conditioned vehicle. The journey covers around 73 kilometers, and with a private transfer, you can expect to reach Rethymno in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Along the way, your driver will share local tips and point out notable sights, turning your transfer into a warm welcome and a mini introduction to Crete, rather than just a ride to your accommodation.

By booking in advance, you’ll secure a fixed, all-inclusive fare with no hidden charges. For travelers seeking a smooth and seamless start to their trip, a private transfer is the best option.

How much is a private transfer from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

A private transfer from Chania Airport to Rethymno in a comfortable 4-seater sedan is €92. You’ll pay for your transfer in advance, so the price stays the same no matter the traffic or any flight delays on the day. This removes any uncertainty of additional charges later on. If you are traveling in a larger group, a journey in our 8-seater minivan will cost €147.90. Making the journey in our 9-12 passenger minibus will cost €234.90.

You can easily book your private transfer through the Welcome Pickups website or by downloading the app. Just enter your details and flight information to confirm your reservation in a few clicks. Please note that these prices apply to daytime bookings, and fares may be slightly higher for night-time transfers.

Cost

€92

Trip Duration

75 Min.

Your flight will be monitored so that your driver is there to meet you on arrival.

Covenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7.

Where does my private transfer depart from?

Your private transfer will depart directly from Chania Airport, but you won’t need to worry about finding your vehicle. Your driver will be waiting for you inside the Arrivals Hall after you clear customs, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. As they will be tracking your flight, you can rest assured they will be there even if your flight is delayed, ready to assist you with your luggage. Choosing a private transfer from Chania Airport to Rethymno ensures a seamless start to your trip, allowing you to skip the queues, avoid confusion, and head straight to your accommodation with ease.

Convenience

While taxis and buses are available at Chania Airport, a private transfer offers the greatest comfort and convenience. Buses, though economical, involve waiting, navigating stops, and managing luggage independently, while taxis can mean queues and variable fares. With a private transfer, everything is arranged ahead of time, eliminating uncertainty and last-minute stress.

Editor’s Note

Private transfers are a great choice for families, groups, or business travelers who want a smooth, direct journey.

Useful Tips

Schedule your pickup for at least 30 minutes after your flight’s arrival time to allow time to clear immigration, collect your luggage, and reach the arrivals hall.

If your flight is delayed, your driver will be notified in real time and adjust their arrival so they’ll be there to meet you when you land.

Airport transfer drivers are highly trained and local to the area, ensuring you take the most direct route to your accommodation.

If you’re traveling with children, request a child seat in advance to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.

Keep your driver’s contact details handy in case you need to communicate your exact location at the airport or coordinate any last-minute changes.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Crete. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€87

NIGHTTIME

€87

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How much is a taxi from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

A taxi from Chania Airport to Rethymno typically costs around €95, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Taxis in Crete are metered, so the price may vary depending on traffic or if you’re traveling late at night. To secure a fixed fare with no extra charges, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Is there public transport from Chania Airport to Rethymnon?

Yes, you can take a KTEL bus from Chania Airport to Rethymnon. There are only 4 – 6 departures each day and the journey takes 90 minutes.

Is there a shuttle from Rethymno to Chania Airport?

There isn’t a dedicated shuttle service between Rethymno and Chania Airport. However, you can easily travel between the two by using local KTEL buses, which run throughout the day. Alternatively, taking a taxi or private transfer offers a more direct and flexible option for getting from Rethymno to Chania Airport.

How do I get to Rethymno from the airport?

You have three main options to travel from Chania Airport to Rethymno: taxi, bus, or private transfer. A taxi or private transfer typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, although taxis may sometimes involve a short wait time. The KTEL bus is the most budget-friendly option, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, not including any waiting time for departures.

How much is the bus from Chania to Rethymnon?

A one way ticket on the KTEL bus from Chania to Rethymnon costs €8. There are discounts available for students, families and elderly travelers, and children under the age of 6 travel for free.

Olivia Campus

Olivia is a travel content creator, copywriter, and marketer for tourism boards and travel brands worldwide. A story-driven explorer with a decade of experience.

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How to take a taxi from Chania Airport to Rethymno

How much does a taxi cost from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

€95

75 Min.

Taxis are always available at Chania Airport.

Where can I take a taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Chania Airport to Rethymno by bus

How much is the bus from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

€8

90 Min.

The direct bus runs from 06:00 to 00:00 every day.

Where do I catch the bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

KTEL Bus Timetable

Chania Airport - Rethymno

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Chania Airport to Rethymno by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

€92

75 Min.

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7.

Where does my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How much is a taxi from Chania Airport to Rethymno?

Is there public transport from Chania Airport to Rethymnon?

Is there a shuttle from Rethymno to Chania Airport?

How do I get to Rethymno from the airport?

How much is the bus from Chania to Rethymnon?

Olivia Campus

The best way to arrive in Crete

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