Chania Airport Bus (KTEL): How to Get to Chania City Center (2025 Guide)
Taking the bus from Chania International Airport (CHQ) is the cheapest way to reach the city.
However, schedules, luggage reality, and late-night arrivals can make it confusing.
This guide explains how the CHQ bus really works, when it’s a smart option — and when it’s not.
If you want the full airport overview (transport, facilities, timing), start with:
Chania International Airport (CHQ): Complete Travel Guide.
If you want the fastest decision (bus vs taxi vs transfer) for the main route, use:
CHQ → Chania City Center.
| CHQ Cluster | Pick the right guide |
|---|---|
| Chania Airport (CHQ): Complete Travel Guide | Main hub: arrivals, transport options, facilities, and first-day logic. |
| CHQ → Chania City Center | One-page decision: bus vs taxi vs transfer (best first click after landing). |
| Chania Airport Taxi Prices (2025) | If the bus doesn’t work: realistic taxi costs + queue strategy. |
| Chania Airport Transfers (Private vs Shared) | Door-to-door, fixed price — best with luggage, kids, or late arrivals. |
| Late-Night Arrival at CHQ | When your flight lands late: the “sleep-first” plan (don’t rely on the bus). |
| Chania Old Town Guide | After the bus: simple first-day walking plan from the bus station area. |
| Where to Stay in Chania | Choose the right base depending on car/no-car travel and walking distance. |
Is There a Bus from Chania Airport?
Yes. There is a public bus connecting Chania Airport (CHQ) with Chania city.
The service is operated by KTEL and runs between the airport and the central bus station in Chania.
During daytime, the bus is a reliable, low-cost option used by locals and budget travelers.
The key limitation is simple: it does not run for every flight, and late-night coverage is not guaranteed.
Bus Route and Final Stop
The CHQ bus runs from the airport terminal to the Chania Central Bus Station (KTEL),
located close to the Old Town and the Venetian Harbor.
- Start: Chania Airport (CHQ)
- Final stop: Chania Central Bus Station (KTEL)
- Travel time: approx. 30–40 minutes (traffic dependent)
From the bus station, most hotels in Chania Old Town and Nea Chora are reachable on foot
or by a short taxi ride.
If you’re planning a first walk after arrival, use:
Chania Old Town Guide.
Chania Airport Bus Timetable (How It Works)
Bus schedules are linked to flight arrivals and vary by season.
In summer, buses tend to be more frequent; in winter, services are reduced.
Important: There is no reliable late-night bus. If you arrive late in the evening or after midnight,
assume the bus may not be available and plan a taxi/transfer.
For the fastest “what should I do after landing?” decision, use:
CHQ → Chania City Center.
If you land late, go straight to:
Late-Night Arrival at CHQ.
Ticket Price and Where to Buy Tickets
Bus tickets from CHQ to Chania are inexpensive compared to taxis.
- Ticket price: approx. €2.50–€3.00
- Where to buy: from the driver or at the kiosk
Tip: Keep cash available, especially outside peak season.
Luggage, Comfort, and Real Limitations
The airport bus is designed for regular passengers, not heavy luggage.
In peak season, the bus can feel crowded and slow — especially when several flights arrive close together.
- Limited luggage space
- Crowded buses during peak hours
- No guarantee of seating in high season
If you travel with multiple suitcases, kids, or want a “no-friction” arrival, you’ll often be happier with a taxi or a transfer.
| Fast decision shortcuts | Use these guides |
|---|---|
| CHQ → City Center | Bus vs taxi vs transfer — fastest decision page after landing. |
| Taxi Prices (2025) | If the bus is full or timing fails: realistic taxi cost + queue tips. |
| Transfers (Private vs Shared) | Door-to-door fixed price — best with luggage, kids, and late arrivals. |
| Late-Night Arrival at CHQ | If you land late: don’t gamble on schedules — use the night plan. |
| Where to Stay in Chania | Your base changes everything: walkability vs resorts vs car needs. |
When the Bus Is NOT the Best Option
- Late-night or early-morning flights
- Large or multiple suitcases
- Accommodation far from Chania center (resorts/villas/remote stays)
- Traveling with children or elderly passengers
In these cases, taxi or pre-booked transfer is usually the better solution.
Taxi cost details here:
Chania Airport Taxi Prices (2025).
Fixed-price transfers here:
Chania Airport Transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the bus run for every flight?
No. Bus schedules depend on season and flight volume. Late arrivals are often not covered.
Where does the bus stop in Chania?
At the central KTEL bus station near the Old Town and Venetian Harbor.
Is the bus suitable with luggage?
Best with light luggage. Large suitcases can be inconvenient during busy hours.
Is the bus cheaper than a taxi?
Yes, significantly cheaper — but less flexible.
