Getting Around Crete: Rental Car vs Transfers vs Bus

Updated Jul 2026 · NomadFlights Travel Guides

Crete is Greece largest island and you need transport to explore it properly.

The Short Answer: Rent a Car

Crete is built for driving. Buses are limited, taxis expensive outside Heraklion. Best beaches and villages are only accessible by car.

Car Rental

From 20-25 euro/day in shoulder season, 30-40 in summer. Localrent connects with Cretan agencies offering better rates and full zero-excess insurance.

KTEL Bus

Connects main cities on north coast. 7-15 euro intercity. Buses do not go to south coast beaches or mountain villages.

Airport Transfer

Welcome Pickups from Heraklion airport costs about 22 euro. Good for arrival day when tired. Pick up rental car next day from town.

Rent in Crete from 20/day

Find Crete Rentals
Pro tip: Get a small car. Cretan mountain roads are narrow. Fiat Panda or Yaris is perfect and 10-15 euro/day cheaper than bigger cars.