Car rental in Chania, Crete: Tips for exploring the West of the island

Although Heraklion is the largest city on the island, Chania is widely considered as the ideal base for travelers who want to experience Crete's most dramatic landscapes.
 

Within one to two hours you can drive from turquoise lagoons to imposing mountain passes, remote villages and some of Greece's most famous beaches.
 

Here are six destinations that are best explored by car.
 

Elafonisi Beach (Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes)
 

The famous pink sand beach is one of the highlights of Crete. The drive itself is part of the experience, passing through mountain scenery and traditional villages before reaching the emerald waters of Elafonisi.
 

Although buses operate during summer, schedules are limited and large crowds arrive simultaneously. By your own car you can arrive early or stay until sunset.
 

Balos Lagoon (Approx. 1 hour to Kissamos)
 

Balos is one of the most photographed places in Greece.
 

There are two ways to visit Balos:
 

• Drive to the Balos viewpoint via the 7 km unpaved road after Kissamos by a 4X4 vehicle.
   
• Take the boat from Kissamos Port. 
   

Samaria Gorge (Approx. 1 hour to Xyloskalo)
 

Europe's longest gorge attracts thousands of hikers every year.
 

The hike starts at Xyloskalo on the Omalos Plateau and finishes at Agia Roumeli on the south coast.
 

Because the hike is one way, careful planning is essential, as we will discuss further on the article.
 

Falasarna Beach (Approx. 1 hour)
 

Less crowded than Elafonisi, Falasarna offers a long sandy beach with crystal-clear water and breathtaking sunset views.
 

It is also easy to combine with Balos during the same day.
 

Lake Kournas (Approx. 45 minutes)
 

Crete's only natural freshwater lake provides a completely different landscape than you can imagine.
 

Here you can rent pedal boats, enjoy traditional tavernas and relax beneath the surrounding mountains.
 

Milia Mountain Village (Approx. 1 hour)
 

Hidden among chestnut forests, Milia is a restored traditional village where stone houses, local food and peaceful surroundings offer a glimpse of authentic Crete far from the tourist crowds.

Rental prices in Chania depend mainly on the season and vehicle category.
 

Typical airport prices are approximately:

Booking your car several months in advance often provides the best prices, particularly during summer.

We recommend monitoring prices at least one month in advance and booking through our dedicated page, “Car Rental in Chania for Next Month” to check availability and secure a good rate when you find one.

Driving in western Crete is generally enjoyable and straightforward, especially compared with many Mediterranean islands.
 

However, road conditions vary depending on where you are heading.
 

The North Coast Highway (E75)
 

The E75 connects Chania with Rethymno, Heraklion and Kissamos. It is the island's fastest road and is well maintained, making longer journeys comfortable.
 

Mountain roads
 

Routes towards Elafonisi, Omalos and many traditional villages become narrower and more winding.
 

Our suggestion is to take your time and allow locals that drive faster to pass safely.
 

The road to Balos
 

This is perhaps the most important piece of practical advice for visitors.
 

After Kissamos, the final 7 kilometres towards Balos are unpaved.
 

Although many travelers complete the route successfully, some rental companies do not allow their standard vehicles on this road because of the rough surface.
 

Before driving there, always confirm that your rental agreement permits access. Ignoring this advice could leave you responsible for expensive damage that insurance may not cover.
 

If you prefer to avoid the track, simply drive to Kissamos Port and take the boat to Balos.
 

Planning the excursion to Samaria Gorge
 

Many first-time visitors assume they can simply park at the entrance of the gorge and return later. Unfortunately, it does not work that way.
 

The hike is entirely one direction.
 

The usual itinerary is:
 

1. Drive to Xyloskalo. 
    
2. Walk through the gorge. 
    
3. Finish at Agia Roumeli. 
    
4. Take the ferry. 
    
5. Continue by bus or taxi back to your vehicle. 
    

Another popular option is leaving your car at Chora Sfakion and travelling to the gorge entrance before starting the hike.

Choosing the right car rental collection point depends entirely on your travel plans, arrival details, and the location of your accommodation. Based on our many years of experience, we recommend considering the following option.

✈️ Chania Airport car rental

Chania Airport is usually the most convenient collection point for fly-drive holidays. Picking up your rental car immediately after landing allows you to avoid the cost, waiting time, and inconvenience of arranging a separate airport transfer.

It also gives you the freedom to begin your journey straight away, whether you are heading to Chania Town, the western beaches, the south coast, or another part of Crete. This option is particularly practical when your hotel, villa, or apartment is located outside Chania, where public transport may be limited and private transfers can be expensive.

Collecting your car at the airport can also make your departure easier, as you can return the vehicle shortly before your flight. 

For the best availability and prices, we recommend monitoring rates at least one month in advance and booking through our dedicated “car rental in Chania for next month” or "car rental in Chania for next week" page when you find a suitable offer.

If you have three days available, this itinerary combines beaches, mountain scenery and charming towns without excessive driving.
 

Day 1: Chania → Rethymno
 

Driving time: approximately 1 hour
 

Spend the morning exploring Chania before driving east to Rethymno.
 

Walk through the Venetian harbor, visit the Fortezza and enjoy dinner in the old town before returning.
 

Day 2: Elafonisi → Falasarna → Kissamos
 

Driving time: approximately 3.5 hours 
 

Start early for Elafonisi to avoid crowds.
 

After your beach visit, continue north towards Falasarna for an afternoon swim before ending the day in Kissamos.
 

Day 3: Balos Viewpoint → Platanias Coast
 

Driving time: approximately 2.5 hours
 

Visit Balos early in the morning for the best light and cooler temperatures.
 

On your return, spend the afternoon relaxing along the beaches of Platanias, Agia Marina or Maleme before finishing your road trip.

Discover: Ultimate Crete Road Trip: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion & Agios Nikolaos

Chania without a car is a beautiful destination.
 

Chania with a rental car becomes the gateway to everything that makes western Crete unforgettable.
 

From the pink sands of Elafonisi to the dramatic views over Balos, the peaceful mountain villages and the unforgettable hike through Samaria Gorge, having your own vehicle allows you to experience the island with complete freedom.
 

By collecting your car at Chania International Airport, you can enjoy a convenient and seamless start to your journey. Abbycar offers transparent pricing, modern vehicles, and the flexibility to explore western Crete at your own pace.