How to get to Maleme? Taxi, Bus & Car Rental

by Best Crete Transfer
12 minutes
How to get to Maleme? Taxi, Bus & Car Rental

There are multiple ways to reach Maleme. The most popular method is flying to the Chania International Airport, which is 23 kilometres (14 miles) away and offers domestic and international flights. Visitors can easily reach Maleme from the airport by taking a taxi or renting a car. Taking a bus is the cheapest way to get to Maleme for those looking for a more economical option. The KTEL bus service operates regular routes connecting various cities and towns in Crete, including Maleme. The bus fares are affordable, starting at 3€ ($3.27, £2.61) for a one-way ticket. The most popular starting point to get to Maleme is the city of Chania. Chania is a city with a rich history and an old town. Visitors can reach Chania by flying into the Chania International Airport or taking a ferry from Athens or other Greek islands. It is a short distance from Chania to Maleme, making it a convenient and popular starting point for travellers.

Listed below are ways to get to Maleme:

  • Taxi: A taxi ride to Maleme from most nearby locations typically costs 35€ ($38.15, £30.45). This price may vary depending on the exact starting point and additional factors such as traffic or time of day. It is advisable to confirm the fare with the taxi driver before starting the journey.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car to get to Maleme is a convenient and straightforward option. The cost of a car rental to Maleme varies depending on factors such as the duration of the rental and the type of car chosen. Car rentals in this area can range from 20€ ($21.8, £17.4) to 50€ ($54.5, £43.5) per day.
  • Public Bus: Getting to Maleme by public bus is affordable for travellers. The cost of a bus ticket to Maleme is 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). The journey by bus takes 30 minutes, providing a quick and convenient way to reach the destination.
  • Organised Tour: The cost of an organised tour to Maleme depends on the type and duration of the tour. Some popular tours are a full-day trip to Knossos Palace and Heraklion, a Cretan night dance show with dinner, drinks, and pick-up, and a sunset trip to Falassarna Beach with transfer. The prices range from 90€ ($98.1, £78.3) to 150€ ($163.5, £130.5) per person, depending on the tour and the season.
  • Private Tour: The cost of a private tour to Maleme varies from 155.8€ ($169.82, £135.55) for a full-day tour of the Battle of Crete to 450€ ($490.5, £391.5) for a wine, beer, and olive oil tasting tour. These prices are for a group of six people and include transportation, guide, and entrance fees. Some tours also include meals and drinks.

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1. Taxi

A taxi ride to Maleme from most nearby locations typically costs 35€ ($38.15, £30.45). This price may vary depending on the exact starting point and additional factors such as traffic or time of day. It is advisable to confirm the fare with the taxi driver before starting the journey. The journey to Maleme by taxi usually takes 30 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the specific starting location and external circumstances. The driver will take the most efficient route to Maleme, ensuring a timely arrival. Getting to Maleme by taxi is relatively easy as taxis are readily available in the area. There are taxi stands at popular locations such as airports, bus stations, and city centres. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through taxi-booking apps or phone numbers. It is recommended to book a taxi in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to avoid any inconvenience.

2. Car Rental

Renting a car to get to Maleme is a convenient and straightforward option. The cost of a car rental to Maleme varies depending on factors such as the duration of the rental and the type of car chosen. Car rentals in this area can range from 20€ ($21.8, £17.4) to 50€ ($54.5, £43.5) per day. The journey from Chania International Airport to Maleme by car rental takes 40 minutes, covering a distance of 36 kilometres (22 miles). The route typically involves driving along the coastal road, providing scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Getting to Maleme with a car rental is relatively easy, as the road infrastructure in this region is well-maintained. Drivers can follow clear signage and directions, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. Maleme is easily accessible from major cities and tourist destinations in Crete, allowing for convenient exploration of the surrounding areas.

3. Public Bus

Getting to Maleme by public bus is an affordable option for travellers. The cost of a bus ticket to Maleme is 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). The journey by bus takes 30 minutes, providing a quick and convenient way to reach the destination. Travelling to Maleme by a public bus is relatively easy. Buses operate regularly, ensuring that visitors have frequent transportation options. The bus route to Maleme is well-established, allowing for a smooth and straightforward journey. Passengers can easily find the bus stop and board the bus without much hassle. A public bus to Maleme is a cost-effective and efficient way to reach the destination. With an affordable ticket price and a reasonably short travel time, it offers a practical transportation option for travellers.

4. Organised Tour

The cost of an organised tour to Maleme depends on the type and duration of the tour. Some popular tours are a full-day trip to Knossos Palace and Heraklion, a Cretan night dance show with dinner, drinks, and pick-up, and a sunset trip to Falassarna Beach with transfer. The prices range from 90€ ($98.1, £78.3) to 150€ ($163.5, £130.5) per person, depending on the tour and the season. The time it takes to get to Maleme by organised tour also varies depending on the tour and the starting point. Maleme is located 17 kilometres (11 miles) west of Chania, the second-largest city of Crete. Most tours depart from Chania or nearby locations, and it takes 30 minutes to reach Maleme by bus or car. Some tours may include stops at other places of interest, such as Rethymno or Falassarna, which can extend the travel time. The ease of getting to Maleme with an organised tour is high, as there are many options and operators. It is easy to book the tour online or through a local travel agency and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Most tours include pickup and drop-off from a hotel or a nearby meeting point, a guide, entrance fees, and meals or snacks.

5. Private Tour

The cost of a private tour to Maleme varies from 155.8€ ($169.82, £135.55) for a full-day tour of the Battle of Crete to 450€ ($490.5, £391.5) for a wine, beer, and olive oil tasting tour. These prices are for a group of six people and include transportation, guide, and entrance fees. Some tours also include meals and drinks.

The duration of a private tour to Maleme depends on the distance and the itinerary. A tour from Chania to Knossos Palace and Heraklion takes 10 hours, while a tour from Chania to Falassarna Beach takes 6 hours. A tour of the Battle of Crete sites in Maleme and nearby areas takes 8 hours.

The difficulty of getting to Maleme with a private tour is low to moderate, depending on the physical activity involved. Most tours are suitable for all ages and fitness levels and do not require any special skills or equipment. Some tours may involve walking, hiking, or climbing stairs, but these are usually optional and can be adjusted to the guest's preferences.

What is the cheapest way to get to Maleme?

The cheapest way to reach Maleme is by bus. The bus fare from Chania Airport to Maleme is 3€ per person, significantly lower than the taxi fare of 35€ or the private transfer fee of 50€. The bus service runs every 15 minutes from the airport to Chania and every 30 minutes from Chania to Maleme, with a total travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The ride offers scenic views of Crete's north coast, passing beach resorts and villages. The bus also stops at Chania's main attractions, such as the Old Venetian Harbour and the Archaeological Museum, allowing passengers to explore the city's history and culture.

What is the quickest way to get to Maleme?

The quickest way to reach Maleme is by taxi or car rental. Taxis provide a straightforward, door-to-door service, with fares averaging 35€ from Chania International Airport to Maleme. Taxis are readily available at airports, hotels, and transportation hubs, offering a hassle-free and time-efficient journey. Renting a car offers flexibility, allowing travelers to explore the area at their own pace while enjoying a swift journey to Maleme. Car rental costs range from 20€ to 50€ per day, depending on the car type and rental duration. The well-maintained road network provides a direct route to Maleme, making driving a convenient option. However, travelers should check road conditions and traffic updates before setting out, and ensure they have the necessary documents, such as a valid driver's license and insurance, to comply with local regulations.

What way to get to Maleme should families with kids select?

Families with kids should choose a car rental to get to Maleme. Renting a car allows families to customize their travel itinerary according to their preferences and their kids' needs. They can easily visit attractions like Maleme Beach, the German War Cemetery, and the nearby town of Chania, navigating the region's roads and exploring diverse landscapes and cultural sites. A car rental provides convenience and comfort, ensuring the safety of children with appropriate car seats and allowing parents to control the driving conditions. Families can carry essential items like strollers, snacks, and extra clothes, making it easier to cater to their children's needs and ensuring a more enjoyable journey. Additionally, renting a car is cost-effective and time-saving, as it eliminates waiting times for public transportation and avoids the need for multiple tickets. This flexibility allows families to explore Maleme and its surroundings more efficiently and economically.

What is Maleme?

Maleme is a village located on the northern coast of Crete, Greece. It is located 16 kilometres (10 miles) west of Chania. Maleme is known for its historical significance, particularly during World War II. During the Battle of Crete in 1941, Maleme was a focal point of intense fighting between the Allied forces and the Axis powers. The Battle of Maleme Airfield was a pivotal moment in the conflict, as control of the airfield allowed the Axis powers to establish a strategic stronghold on the island. Maleme is a quiet and modestly-sized village with around 1,000 residents. It offers visitors a glimpse into the island's history and natural beauty. The village features a few local amenities, such as traditional taverns, small shops, and tourist accommodations. Maleme's coastal location provides visitors access to beautiful beaches and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The area has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach 30 ℃ (86 ℉), while in winter, temperatures average 15 ℃ (59 ℉).

How to get to Maleme from Heraklion?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Maleme from Heraklion:

  • By Taxi: A taxi ride from Heraklion to Maleme takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering 130 kilometres (81 miles). The average cost for a Heraklion taxi ride is 140€ ($152.6, £121.8).
  • By Bus: The most convenient way to reach Maleme from Heraklion is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering a distance of 150 kilometres (93 miles). The average ticket price for a one-way bus ride is 10€ ($10.9, £8.7).
  • By Car Rental: Renting a car is another option to travel from Heraklion to Maleme. The distance between the two places is 130 kilometres (81 miles), and the driving time is 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The average cost of renting a car for a day is 40€ ($43.6, £34.8), excluding fuel expenses.

How to get to Maleme from Chania?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Maleme from Chania:

  • By Taxi: Taxis are available from Chania to Maleme. The journey takes 40 minutes. The distance between Chania and Maleme is 35 kilometres (22 miles). The average Chania taxi ride cost from Chania to Maleme is 50€ ($54.5, £43.5).
  • By Bus: A bus service operates between Chania and Maleme. The bus journey takes 1 hour. Buses are more affordable than taxis, with an average fare of 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). It is important to check the bus schedule in advance, as the frequency of buses may vary depending on the time of day and the season.
  • By Car rental: Renting a car is another option to reach Maleme from Chania. The drive takes 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The distance is 35 kilometres (22 miles). Car rental prices can vary depending on the rental company, the type of car, and the rental duration. Car rental prices start from 30 € ($35, £26) daily.

Is Maleme worth visiting?

Yes, Maleme is worth visiting. This historical village on the island of Crete, Greece, offers a rich glimpse into the past with its significant historical sites and landmarks. The Maleme Airfield, a key World War II memorial site, played a crucial role in the Battle of Crete. The airfield features remnants of military infrastructure and exhibits that provide insight into the island's wartime history. Maleme also offers beautiful beaches with clear blue waters, perfect for relaxation, especially during the summer when temperatures reach around 30 ℃ (86 ℉). The village provides a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to upscale resorts, and several dining establishments where visitors can savor local cuisine and experience the region's flavors.

Do you need to book a transfer in advance to visit Maleme?

No, visitors to Maleme do not necessarily need to book a transfer in advance. Maleme is a small village in Crete, Greece, known for its historical significance as a World War II battlefield and its proximity to beautiful beaches. The village is small and easily walkable, so exploring on foot is quite manageable. If visitors prefer to arrange transportation in advance, they can book a transfer service or rent a car, with several local and international car rental companies operating in the area. Taxis are also available in Maleme, providing convenient transportation for shorter distances or airport transfers. A taxi ride from Chania International Airport to Maleme typically costs around 50€. Public transportation, such as buses, is another option, with regular services connecting Maleme to nearby towns and attractions.