Chania International Airport (Ioannis Daskalogiannis, code CHQ) is the main airport for western Crete, located about 14 km from Chania city. The usual journey takes around 20 minutes by taxi or about 30 minutes by KTEL bus, depending on traffic.
The terminal is open 24 hours. Bus frequency, flight schedules, queues, and service availability vary by season, so check current transport and airline information before travel.
Chania Airport: Fast Answers
- Distance to Chania: about 14 km
- Public transport: KTEL bus to Chania Central Bus Station
- Bus stop: opposite Departures, on the east side of the terminal
- Taxi stand: opposite the Arrivals B area
- Airport parking: open 24/7; the first 20 minutes are free
- Terminal hours: open 24 hours a day
How to Get from Chania Airport to the City
By Bus (KTEL)
- Bus stop: opposite Departures, on the east side of the terminal
- Tickets: available from the bus driver
- Destination: Chania Central Bus Station, near the Old Town
- Journey time: usually around 30 minutes, depending on traffic
Important: Timetables change by season. Check the current KTEL schedule before travel and allow extra time in summer.
By Taxi
- Location: opposite the Arrivals B area
- Duration: about 20 minutes (traffic dependent)
- Best for: late arrivals, families, and travelers with heavy luggage
Important: Confirm the fare before departure and check the displayed taxi information at the stand.
Car Rental
Rental counters are available inside the terminal. A car is useful when the trip includes beaches, villages, or several locations outside Chania city.
Tip: Reserve in advance during the summer season and review the insurance, deposit, fuel policy, and pickup instructions before arrival.
Private Transfer
A pre-booked transfer provides a direct ride to the accommodation and avoids waiting for the next bus. It is most useful for late arrivals, families, groups, heavy luggage, and stays outside Chania city.
Local Insight — by Zurab Peikrishvili
Queues can build quickly during peak summer periods. Allow extra time for baggage collection, check-in, and security. A pre-booked transfer can simplify a late or family arrival, while a rental car is most useful when the itinerary extends beyond Chania city.
Facilities at Chania Airport
The terminal contains the essential services needed before departure or after arrival. The photographs below show the check-in hall, main terminal area, and one of the cafés.
What you’ll find inside
- Restaurants and cafés
- Shops and duty-free shopping
- ATMs
- Free Wi-Fi
- Car rental counters
- Nursing room and first aid
- Accessible travel services and toilets
Note: There is no metro or train connection. Ground transport is by bus, taxi, private transfer, or car.
Parking at Chania Airport
Parking Areas & Access
The official airport parking area is close to the terminal and operates 24 hours a day.
- First 20 minutes: free of charge
- Payment: cash or credit card
- Longer stays: charged according to the total parking duration
Tip: Check the current price list before leaving the vehicle for several hours or days.
Tips for Travelers
Quick Travel Tips
- Departure: follow the airline’s check-in deadline and allow extra time in summer
- Queues: check-in and security can become busy during peak departure periods
- Bus: check the seasonal timetable before leaving for the airport
- Late arrival: arrange onward transport before the flight if public transport is limited
- Children: keep essential items accessible until baggage collection is complete
- Pets: confirm the airline’s rules before travel
Flights and Airlines
Typical flight mix
- Domestic: regular connections within Greece
- International: direct European routes, many of them seasonal
- Charter traffic: concentrated in the main holiday season
Airlines, destinations, and frequencies change by season. Confirm the current flight directly with the airline before travel.
Hotels Near Chania Airport
Where to Stay Near the Airport
For an early departure or late arrival, choose accommodation with confirmed late check-in and reliable transport to or from the terminal. Properties near the airport can reduce travel time, while Chania city offers a wider choice of accommodation.
Important: Confirm reception hours and airport transport directly with the property before booking.
FAQ
How far is Chania Airport from Chania city?
About 14 km — roughly 20 minutes by taxi or about 30 minutes by bus.
Is there Uber at Chania Airport?
App-based availability can change. Do not depend on it as the only airport transport plan; the established options are the official taxi stand, KTEL bus, a pre-booked transfer, or a rental car.
Can I sleep overnight in Chania Airport?
The terminal operates 24 hours a day, but it is not designed as overnight accommodation. For a late arrival or early departure, arrange transport and accommodation in advance.
Is Wi-Fi free at Chania Airport?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available inside the terminal.
Conclusion
Chania International Airport (CHQ) is the main gateway to western Crete. The KTEL bus is the straightforward public transport option, taxis and transfers suit travelers who need direct transport, and a rental car is useful for a wider western Crete itinerary.
Check seasonal transport and flight information before travel, allow extra time during busy summer periods, and arrange late-night transport in advance.
