Airports
Chania Airport car rental with no credit card and no deposit
Chania International Airport sits on the Akrotiri peninsula, about 15 km from Chania's old harbour. We meet you at arrivals with the car. You pay by debit card, and with Full cover there is no deposit.
- Meet & greet at CHQ arrivals
- No credit card on any cover – pay by debit card
- €0 deposit with Full cover
- One-way return to Heraklion Airport possible
Search cars at Chania Airport (CHQ)
How pick-up works at Chania Airport
Chania has a single, compact terminal, so the hand-over is quick: we meet you as you come out of arrivals. Add your flight number when you book so we plan around your landing time. From the airport, the road runs south off Akrotiri to Chania town and the national road east and west.
Near Chania Airport
25 min
Chania old town and Venetian harbour
The lighthouse, the waterfront mosque and lanes of the old quarters. Park outside the walls and walk in.
15 min
Stavros beach
A shallow, sheltered bay at the tip of Akrotiri, where the final dance of Zorba the Greek was filmed.
15 min
Seitan Limania
A narrow, fjord-like cove reached by a steep path from the road. Wear proper shoes, not flip-flops.
10 min
Agia Triada monastery
A 17th-century monastery among olive groves on Akrotiri, which still makes its own oil and wine.
Day trips from Chania Airport
1 h 30 min each way
Balos lagoon and Gramvousa
Drive west to Kissamos port and take the boat to Balos and Gramvousa. The road to the lagoon is a long gravel track, and off-road driving is strictly prohibited.
1 h 45 min each way
Elafonisi
Pink-tinged sand and a shallow lagoon in the far south-west. The last stretch winds through the Topolia gorge, so allow plenty of time.
1 h 15 min each way
Falasarna
A long sandy beach on the west coast facing open sea, famous for its sunsets. Stay for dinner and drive back in the cool of the evening.
Driving tips for Chania Airport
- No off-road drivingDriving on dirt or gravel tracks is strictly prohibited and no cover applies there, including the road to Balos. Take the boat from Kissamos instead.
- Watch for goats on the mountain roadsOn the roads to Elafonisi and the south coast, goats and fallen stones are common after bends. Keep your speed down.
- Refuel in Souda or ChaniaThere are few petrol stations on Akrotiri itself. Fill up in town before you head back to the airport.
- Drive west in daylightThe roads to Falasarna and Elafonisi are narrow and unlit. Plan the long drives so that you return before dark.
Google reviews
What our customers say
Real reviews from travellers who rented a car with us in Crete, as posted on Google.
Chania Airport: frequently asked questions
Do I need a credit card to rent a car at Chania Airport?
No. No credit card is required on any of our covers. You pay by debit card, and with Full or Premium cover the deposit is €0.
Where do I meet you at Chania Airport?
At arrivals. The terminal is small, so you will see us as soon as you come out. Add your flight number when you book and we will be there when you land.
Can I pick up in Chania and return in Heraklion?
Yes, one-way rentals across Crete are possible. Choose Heraklion Airport or another point as your return location and the price includes it.
Can I drive to Balos with a rental car?
No. The last 8 km to Balos is a gravel track, and off-road driving is strictly prohibited. Drive to Kissamos port and take the boat instead.
How far is Chania Airport from the old town?
About 15 km, or 25 minutes by car. The old town is largely pedestrian, so park in one of the car parks just outside the walls.
Book your car in Chania Airport
Live prices for your dates. No credit card needed on any cover.
Travelling beyond Crete?
Our booking technology partner Karpadu compares car rental all over Greece. Island-hopping after Crete? Find a car in:
More about car rental in Crete on Karpadu