Rethymno transportation

You will find information about transportation in Rethymno and how to move around below:

You can move around Rethymno by using a:
Public Bus (KTEL) • Taxis & Private Transfers • Rental Car • Tour • Water Taxi

Don't miss our FAQ.

In brief, the preferred way to move around is by renting a car, due to the prefecture's large size. 

Don't forget to get informed about how to get to Rethymno in order to optimize your travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have gathered the most common questions regarding transportation in Rethymno and answered them for you.
Do you have another question? Are you looking for additional information to organize your trip? Let us know! You can send us your questions or post them in our community section.
Our informative team and community members will be more than happy to serve you!

• How can I get to my hotel from the airport?

Since Rethymno does not have an airport, your best bet is to get to Rethymno after landing at the airport of Heraklion or Chania.
The KTEL (intercity) bus stops can be spotted outside the departures area of Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport. Buses connecting the airports to Rethymno have increased availability during the summer months. If your accommodation lies in a more tourist-friendly settlement like Adelianos Kampos, Bali, and Panormos, you may be able to reach it via intercity bus.
Taxis and car rental desks are also found near the airports. If you prefer avoiding public transport, it is highly recommended to book a transfer service or a rental car in advance, especially if you are visiting during the high season.
Also, keep in mind that several hotels offer a shuttle service to guests, so make sure to contact your accommodation of choice in advance.

• How can I get to my hotel from the port?

A KTEL bus stop lies outside the port, with buses to the capitals of Chania, Heraklion, and Lassithi, as well as various spots in Rethymno. Most KTEL routes are available throughout the year, so if your accommodation lies in the city center or a known settlement, you can reach it via bus.
Additionally, taxis are available at the port, and the center, the tourist-friendly coasts of Rethymno Town, but given the high number of visitors in the summertime, catching one can be difficult. Booking a transfer service or renting a car guarantees fast and convenient transportation. Car rental agencies can bring your vehicle to the port premises upon request.
Again, many hotels offer a shuttle service to their visitors, so contact your accommodation of choice in advance!

• How can I get to Rethymno Town?

Rethymno Town can be reached by bus or private transfers from the port of Rethymno and the airports of Chania and Heraklion!

• How can I get to some of the finest beaches?

A rental car is your best bet to reach most beaches, with most options at a distance from the city center. Nonetheless, if you are interested in visiting the most popular beaches, our organized tours allow you to combine swimming with a trip to sandy beaches, ancient monuments, quality meals, and many more! In addition, some buses can reach the most popular shores, while taxis are always a time-efficient alternative.

• Can I rely on public means of transport?

Buses connect Rethymno Town with the popular resorts and many villages, while the itineraries are more frequent during the high season! However, if you would like to visit specific locations and remote villages of Rethymno, your best bet is to rent a car.

• Are the distances between Rethymno Town and the touristy spots long?

Most tourist-friendly areas are within a few kilometers of the Town center, so it is usually not a big hassle to move around the prefecture's northern seashores. On the other hand, visits to popular southern spots like Spili and Agia Galini can be tiring and tough to access.