Heraklion airport

Serves the eastern and central areas of the island, the airport lies about 5 km outside the city. Taxis and buses are available outside the terminal. In the terminal you will find the usual offices for car hire companies, bureau de change as well as cafes and bars. During the summer months they can be delays due to the amount of charter traffic. From the airport you can travel to other islands, Rhodes, Santorini plus many more.

Bus
Route no.1 takes you into the city, fare cost ca 1 euro. Departure every few minutes.

Taxis
Always use registered taxis as there are a number of pirate taxis operating out of the airport. Always make sure the taximeter is on or agree on a price before the journey starts. If you have any trouble with a registered taxi, note the number on the sign and report to the tourist police. Fare to the city cost ca. 8 euro in the daytime, plus a baggage charge.

Chania airport

Serves the western area of the island, the airport lies about 15 km outside the city of Chania. The usual offices are to be found here, car hire companies etch, several flights a day to Athens. There also goes daily flight to Thessaloniki.

Bus
There are no regular bus services from the airport, buses meet up for arrivals; most people take the taxi to the city. Daily bus connection to and from Rethymno (Olympic airways coach)

Taxi
The trip to the centre of the city cost ca, 9 euro. The same rules apply here as in Heraklion as to the use of taxis.

Sitia airport

Sitia airport is under expansion and takes for the time being mainly charter flights.

Tourist information

Agios Nikolaos

Situated north of the bridge between the lake and the sea. Phone 28410-22357

Heraklion

Situated opposite the archaeological museum.
Phone: 2810-228203,244462

Chania
Kriari 40, nær the plateia .
Phone: 28210 92943

Rethymno

Situated on the eastern end of the promenade towards Plateia Iroon. Phone: 28310 29148 or 56350

Ferries

From the mainland port of Piraeus there are daily sailings to Crete. There are also ferries from other islands and from Cyprus and Israel. Make sure you leave plenty of time when travelling by boat as there can be delays, due to weather and ferry departures times can be altered. Taking the ferry from Piraeus can be a bit of a trial, as the ships do not always dock at the correct quay. So make sure you take the time to find the right ferry.

Car hire

Cars can be hired from international car hire companies based at the airport. Cars can also be hired from private companies, in towns and main tourist areas. There are age restrictions to hire cars, you must be a qualified driver, and been driving for at least 1 year and 21-23 years old. Be sure when hiring a car that it has full insurance and unlimited mileage.

Driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden, and if stopped can result in very heavy fines or imprisonment. Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers; children less than 10 years must sit in the back seat. Local drivers have a more aggressive driving style, so drive carefully and keep a cool head.

SCOOTERS AND MOTORCYCLES

Can be hired in the towns and tourist areas, a driving licence is required fro the class of motorcycle/scooter you wish to hire. Helmets must be worn on any motorcycle over 50cc. Check that the brakes work and the hire bike is in good condition before you hire it.

BICYCLES

Though not a popular mode of transport in Crete, due to the terrain they can be hired in tourist areas.

GENERAL TIPS

Water: is safe to drink on Crete, but if you preferring bottled water it is widely available in the shops.

Medicine: If you take medicine make sure you have enough for the duration of your holiday (Check at you does not take any medicine that contains codeine, as this is forbidden in Greece).

Weather: The weather can get very hot in the summer months, so make sure you use a good sun lotion and a hat. Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration.

Health insurance: EU citizens must take form E-11 (endorsed by their local insurance office), normally you have to pay then get a refund when you arrive home.

See also activities in Crete>