Chania International Airport (CHQ): Complete Travel Guide 2025
Introduction
Chania International Airport (Ioannis Daskalogiannis, code CHQ) is the second-largest airport in Crete and one of the busiest in Greece during the summer season. Located about 14 km from Chania, it connects western Crete with Athens, Thessaloniki, and major European cities.
For many travelers, CHQ is the first step of the journey. Whether you’re heading straight to Chania Old Town, planning a beach week on the west coast, or starting a road trip across the island, knowing how the airport works will save you time and stress.
CHQ Fast Answers
- Distance to Chania: ~14 km (about 20 min by taxi, ~30 min by bus)
- Cheapest transfer: KTEL bus to Chania Central Bus Station
- Taxi to the center: usually €25–30
- Best option for exploring: car rental (beaches & day trips)
- Arrive early in summer: 2h domestic / 3h international
| Chania Airport (CHQ) Cluster | Pick the right guide |
|---|---|
| CHQ → Chania City Center | Main route plan: bus vs taxi vs transfer (fastest decision after landing). |
| Chania Airport Bus to Chania | Timetable logic, tickets, stops, and real bus tips in peak season. |
| Chania Airport Taxi Prices (2025) | Realistic costs, taxi line tips, and what changes late at night. |
| Chania Airport Transfers (Private vs Shared) | Fixed price, door-to-door, best for families and villa stays. |
| Chania Airport Parking Guide | Short-term vs long-term, free minutes, and safe parking strategy. |
| Car Rental at Chania Airport | Insurance, deposits, fuel policy, and the best pickup approach. |
| Late-Night Arrival at CHQ | What works after midnight: taxis, transfers, ATMs, food, check-in. |
| Chania Airport with Kids | Strollers, toilets, car seats, and the fastest family exit plan. |
|
CHQ → Agia Marina • CHQ → Platanias |
Most common resort routes on the west coast (quick transport choices). |
| Best Beaches Near Chania Airport | Closest “first swim” beaches if you stay near the airport. |
Not sure what to pick after landing? Start with
CHQ → Chania City Center,
then compare
taxi prices
vs
private transfers
depending on your arrival time and luggage.
How to Get from Chania Airport to the City
By Bus (KTEL)
- Price: around €2.50–3 per person
- Duration: 25–30 minutes
- Frequency: usually every 30–60 minutes (daytime)
- Final stop: Chania Central Bus Station (near the Old Town)
Tip: Buy the ticket at the kiosk inside the airport or from the driver. In peak summer, buses can be full — arrive early.
If you want the full breakdown (bus vs taxi vs transfer), see: How to get from Chania Airport to the city center.
For the detailed bus article (timetables, stops, tickets), see: Chania Airport bus to Chania (2025).
By Taxi
- Availability: 24/7 outside the arrivals hall
- Price: usually €25–30 to Chania city center
- Duration: about 20 minutes (traffic dependent)
- Payment: cash preferred, some drivers accept card
Best for: late arrivals, families, heavy luggage, or when buses are full.
For a realistic price guide and tips at the taxi stand, see: Chania Airport taxi prices (2025).
If you land very late, use this plan: Late-night arrival at CHQ (after midnight).
Taxi Stand — Rates & Real-Life Look
Car Rental
Chania and western Crete are best explored by car. Inside the terminal you’ll find both international and local rental companies.
- International brands: Sixt, Avis, Hertz, Budget
- Local companies: Autocandia, Cretarent, Eurodollar
- Typical prices: €20–25/day (low season), €40+/day (summer)
Tip: Book in advance in summer — availability drops fast and prices rise.
Full guide here: Car rental at Chania Airport (CHQ) — prices, insurance & local tips.
Inside the Terminal — Car Rental Counters
Private Transfer
If you prefer a door-to-door ride (especially late at night), private transfers can be booked online in advance. This option is popular for families, large luggage, and villa stays.
Compare options here: Chania Airport transfers (private vs shared) — best for families and late arrivals.
Traveling as a family? See: Chania Airport with kids (strollers, toilets, car seats).
Local Insight — by Zurab Peikrishvili
In peak summer, CHQ can feel “small” in the worst way: queues build up fast at baggage claim, and the taxi line can grow quickly around midday. If you land during the rush, assume extra time — and if you’re a family, a pre-booked transfer can be worth it. For most travelers planning beaches and day trips, picking up a car at the airport saves hours over the next week.
Facilities at Chania Airport
Inside the Terminal — Facilities & Atmosphere
A quick glimpse inside CHQ’s main hall — cafés, duty-free, car rentals, and the essentials that matter on travel day.
What you’ll find inside
- Restaurants and cafés (coffee, snacks, fast food)
- Duty-free shop (alcohol, tobacco, cosmetics)
- Local products (olive oil, honey, herbs)
- ATMs and currency exchange
- SIM card stands and mobile operators
- Free Wi-Fi (can be unstable at peak hours)
- Baby care rooms and accessible toilets
Note: There is no metro or train station — only bus, taxi, and car.
Arriving with children? See: CHQ with kids (strollers, toilets, car seats).
Parking at Chania Airport
Parking Areas & Access
There are two main parking zones near the terminal:
- Short-term: closest to the terminal (pickups/drop-offs), free for the first ~20 minutes
- Long-term: cheaper daily rates, walking distance to the terminal
Typical cost: first hour ~€5, then ~€0.50 per extra hour. Average is about €7–12 per day depending on duration.
Full details here: Chania Airport parking guide (CHQ).
Flights and Airlines
Departures & Airlines at CHQ
Typical flight mix
- Domestic: Athens, Thessaloniki (daily flights, especially in season)
- International: Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, Norwegian, Lufthansa, Wizz Air (routes vary by year)
- Seasonal charters: many routes from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, Poland and more
Summer is peak season (roughly May–October), when most direct routes operate.
Arriving via the other main gateway? See:
Heraklion Airport (HER) — complete guide.
Hotels Near Chania Airport
Where to Stay Near the Airport
If you have an early flight or a late arrival, staying near the airport can make travel day much easier. Several small hotels and apartments are located within a 5–10 minute drive. Many offer free parking and may provide airport transfers on request.
Popular nearby options: Kathiana Apartments (budget), Skandalis Traditional Suites (quiet local-style), AirPort Hotel Irene (closest modern option).
If you arrive after midnight, read:
Late-night arrival at CHQ.
Traveling with children? Use:
CHQ with kids.
| Plan Your Stay | Use these hubs |
|---|---|
| Where to Stay in Chania | Choose the right base (Old Town vs beaches vs quiet areas) depending on car/no-car travel. |
| Chania Old Town Guide | A practical first-day walking route after arrival. |
| Things to Do in Chania (2025) | Main activity hub — turns an airport landing into a complete itinerary. |
| Chania Nightlife | For late arrivals: bars and evening spots without wasting your first night. |
| Best Beaches in Chania (2025) | The main Chania beach hub — choose between iconic lagoons, family beaches, and wild spots. |
Tips for Travelers
Quick Travel Tips
- Arrive early: 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights
- Expect queues in summer: check-in and security lines can be long
- Bus strategy: buy tickets early and be ready for a full bus at peak hours
- No Uber/Bolt: Crete relies on taxis and private transfers
- Traveling with pets: inform your airline in advance
- Best months to fly: May, June, September (often less crowded and cooler)
If your flight lands very late, use this plan: Late-night arrival at CHQ (after midnight).
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?
No — Uber doesn’t operate on Crete. Use taxis, public buses, or private transfers instead.
Can I sleep overnight in Chania Airport?
Overnight stays inside are typically not practical; access and opening hours may vary by season and operational needs. If you land late, plan a taxi/transfer and a nearby stay instead.
Is Wi-Fi free at Chania Airport?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, though speed can be slow during peak hours.
Conclusion
Chania International Airport (CHQ) is the gateway to western Crete. From here you can reach Chania’s Venetian harbor, beautiful beaches, and some of the island’s best day trips with minimal hassle — as long as you plan your transport wisely.
In summer, arrive early, expect queues, and consider a car if your plan goes beyond the city. Whether you’re here for a short holiday or a long road trip, starting your journey from CHQ can be smooth and stress-free when you know what to expect.
Landing and heading straight to the sea? Start here: Best beaches near Chania Airport (CHQ).
