Crete is a beautiful Greek island that captivates beautiful beaches, food offerings, national parks, as well as historical landmarks. Tourists love the island because it is a great way to spend their vacation and feel the spirit of the Mediterranean and Greek traditions. However, you must know that it is a big island and you cannot rely on walking. In fact, you can combine multiple options such as public transport, bicycle, car rental, and even boat to visit as many locations as possible.
What we will immediately agree on is that the best way to get around Crete is by car. There are also several bus lines, but they actually connect the biggest cities on the island, and sometimes they only operate in high season.
But let’s start from the beginning.
1. Arrival in Crete
Crete has two airports, one in Heraklion and another in Chania. Depending on where you are coming from, you can book a direct flight, or combine it with a transfer to Thessaloniki or Athens.
In this regard, check which way is most economical for you and suits you best. We suggest using Chania or Heraklion airport transfers to get to your hotel or accommodation on time.
Of course, you have the option to travel by ferry for a few hours and arrive in Crete via one of the ports. From the moment you set foot on the island, your wonderful adventure can begin.
2. Using a car
Since this is an island, you probably arrived through the airports or ports of Crete. But what is good to know is that there are car rental services that you can book as soon as you confirm your trip. This way you can reach the places that are further from your hotel but also visit the hidden parts of the island. During the summer, walking is really a serious challenge, so you can always make your stay easier with a rented car.
If you’re not into cars, you can always rent a motorbike. However, some parts of the island can only be visited by car. To achieve this, you must be at least 21 years old and hold an international driver’s license.
3. Using a bus
Most of the major Crete cities are connected with bus lines. So, you can easily travel from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, or from Rethymnon to Chania, because there is a regular schedule, and buses cost between 2 and 10 euros, depending on the distance.
But, some of the rocky parts of the island are not connected with public transport lines. So, you need to get creative here and combine different ways to commute through Crete.
Buses are great for big city visits, but if you want off-road activities or to “hunt” for hidden gems, you need something more than the usual bus.
Mostly, people use cars or motorcycles to get around Crete, and then walk to their destination, if needed.
4. Using a taxi
This is not a cheap option, because the drives can be pretty long. Also, there are some speculations that the drivers charge more than the tourists, thinking they are not aware of the realistic prices. But sometimes, you don’t have any other option instead of using a taxi to get from one place to another in a short time.
5. Boats and ferries
This is a usual type of transport on the islands. We suggest you explore the small villages around, that you can get there only by boat.
Also, you can use some ferry adventures during the vacation. Make sure you get informed about all the possible excursions available on Crete.
6. Hiking
There are villages that are not accessible by road. So, you can go there by boat, or you can try hiking, because there are so many beautiful trails, with breathtaking nature around you. It’s a great travel experience for those who want adventures and off-road activities.
Tips to make getting around easier
The private transfer options are so popular nowadays because you can be comfortable, and travel peacefully, knowing that you get a premium service. We have suggestions on how to make things easier for you:
– Book the airport transfers on time
– Use professional driver services
– Get familiar with the surroundings
– Explore the map of bus stations
– Discover the town buses options
Also, always make sure you know what you want to visit that day. It will help you determine which option will work the best for you.
Crete is an exceptional place to spend your vacation days, but trying to see everything in one week or ten days is quite impossible. But if you stay there for more than two weeks, you are more flexible to plan the tours and daily excursions, or even visiting more places, staying in different cities and villages.
How to save money while on Crete?
You have options to be elite and spend a lot of money, but also to travel on a budget. Luckily, you can find both cheap and expensive options, including accommodations and restaurants.
Instead of a hotel, stay in a villa apartment. It’s more affordable options, and you are more flexible with the meals and in-house rules.
Conclusion
Greece is a favorite summer destination for tourists from all over the world. Be well informed about the beginning and end of the season and when the Greek islands are most crowded. Fortunately, there is enough choice for those who want an off-season vacation, but also for those who enjoy it when the tourist spot is crowded with many people.
Transportation options are sometimes quite limited, but there are places like Crete that offer solutions for every tourist. Try to find the best way, which best suits your planned activities. But still, the most important thing is to inform yourself in time about all the possibilities and focus on having the best time you can.
And that would be everything you need to know about the options to get around Crete this summer.
