To reach Kissamos, travelers have several transportation options including taxis, car rentals, public buses, organized tours, and private tours. Taxis offer a quick and direct route especially from nearby locations like Chania and Platanias, with a journey from Chania costing €60 ($66, £52) and €80 ($88, £69). This is a popular choice due to its convenience. Car rentals provide flexibility, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace with rental costs ranging from €30 ($33, £26) to €50 ($55, £43) per day. The most popular starting point for trips to Kissamos is Chania, due to its proximity and the frequency of public transport options available. It serves as a convenient hub for both local residents and tourists looking to explore Kissamos and its surroundings.
Listed below are ways to get to Kissamos:
To get to Kissamos by taxi from nearby villages offers a direct and convenient option for travelers. The distance varies depending on the starting point, with the average distance from Chania being 40 kilometers (27 miles) and 27 kilometers (18 miles) from Platanias. The ride typically takes 50 minutes to 1 hour. Taxi fares for this trip usually range from €60 ($66, £52) to €80 ($88, £69) from Chania, while from Platanias, the cost is generally lower, €40 ($44, £34) to €50 ($55, £43). Booking a taxi in advance ensures availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. This option provides travelers with comfort and flexibility, allowing them to enjoy the scenic coastal views along the route. Taxis in Crete are generally easy to find, and many drivers are familiar with local attractions, making them a valuable resource for local tips and recommendations.
The best time to visit Kissamos is between May and October when temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), ideal for enjoying the beautiful beaches and nearby sights. Booking a taxi a few days in advance is recommended to secure availability and potentially negotiate better rates. This option is particularly advantageous for those who prefer direct travel without the hassle of navigating public transportation or driving on unfamiliar roads. The scenic drive offers views of Crete's diverse landscapes, making the journey itself a pleasant experience.
Traveling to Kissamos from Hersonissos by car rental offers flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to explore the landscapes of Crete at their own pace. The distance between Hersonissos and Kissamos is 196 kilometers, and the drive typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours. Car rental costs in Hersonissos generally range from €30 ($33, £26) to €50 ($55, £43) per day, depending on the vehicle type and rental company. To reach Kissamos, drivers should head west on the E75 highway towards Chania, then follow the signs to Kissamos. The route is straightforward and well-marked, passing through villages and offering coastal views.
Renting a car is relatively easy, with many rental agencies available in Hersonissos. Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, ensures availability and often results in better rates. This option allows travelers to make stops at various points of interest along the way, such as the beautiful beaches of Elafonissi and Balos, or the historical sites in Chania. The best time to book a rental car is during the shoulder seasons, specifically from March to June and September to October, when prices are lower, and the weather is pleasant. Visiting Kissamos during these months provides ideal conditions for enjoying the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Traveling to Kissamos from Hersonissos by public bus is an economical and straightforward option. The journey begins with a bus ride from Hersonissos to Heraklion, 24 kilometers (18 miles) and taking 30 minutes. The fare for this leg ranges from €3 ($3.30, £2.60) to €5 ($5.50, £4.30) per person. Upon reaching Heraklion, travelers need to switch to an intercity bus heading to Chania, which is 140 kilometers (87 miles) away and takes 2.5 hours. The fare for this segment ranges from €10 ($11, £8.60) to €15 ($16.50, £12.90). Once in Chania, travelers can catch a direct bus to Kissamos, which is 40 kilometers (25 miles) away and takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. The fare for this leg ranges from €4 ($4.40, £3.40) to €6 ($6.60, £5.20). The total cost for the trip can range from €17 ($18.70, £14.60) to €26 ($28.60, £22), making it a budget-friendly option.
The bus services are operated by KTEL Chanion-Rethymnou S.A., which runs multiple buses daily, ensuring a reliable connection. The buses are modern and equipped with air-conditioning, providing a comfortable journey. It is advisable to check the bus schedules in advance, especially during off-peak seasons when the frequency may be lower. The best time to visit Kissamos is between May and October when temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), offering ideal conditions for enjoying the area's beaches and natural beauty. Booking bus tickets a day in advance is recommended to ensure availability and plan the return trip accordingly.
Organized tours offer a convenient and structured way to visit Kissamos, providing a comprehensive experience of the area's attractions. These tours typically depart from major towns like Chania or Heraklion, covering distances of 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Chania or 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Heraklion. The journey to Kissamos usually takes 1 hour from Chania or 3 hours from Heraklion, depending on the tour itinerary and any planned stops along the way.
The cost of organized tours to Kissamos varies based on the package and included activities. Day trips start from €19 ($21, £16) per person, while more extensive tours, such as boat cruises to nearby Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, can range from €41 ($45, £35) to €100 ($110, £86) per person. These prices often include transportation, guided tours, and sometimes meals or entrance fees to attractions.
Booking an organized tour to Kissamos is relatively easy, with many options available online or through local travel agencies. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak season from June to September, to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates. The best time to visit Kissamos is between May and October when temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beach excursions.
Organized tours provide a hassle-free way to explore Kissamos and its surroundings, with experienced guides offering insights into the area's history and culture. They are particularly suitable for those who prefer a structured itinerary and want to avoid the complexities of navigating public transportation or driving in an unfamiliar area.
Traveling to Kissamos through a private tour offers an exclusive and personalized experience, ideal for those looking to explore the village and its surroundings in comfort and style. Private tours typically depart from Kissamos port and cover popular destinations such as Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island. The distance covered during these tours varies, but it generally includes a round trip of 23 kilometers (14 miles) to 30 kilometers (19 miles), depending on the specific itinerary. The cost of a private tour to Kissamos can vary significantly based on the type of boat, the number of participants, and the included services. Prices generally range from €520 ($570, £450) to €650 ($715, £560) for a half-day tour. These tours often include amenities such as snorkeling equipment, non-alcoholic refreshments, snacks, and the services of a captain and crew.
A typical private tour lasts 4 to 8 hours, providing ample time to explore the Cretan coastline, swim in the turquoise waters, and visit historical sites like the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island. The tours are easy to book through various online platforms such as GetYourGuide and Tripadvisor, which offer user-friendly booking processes and flexible cancellation policies. The best time to book a private tour to Kissamos is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), and the tourist crowds are smaller. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
The cheapest way to get to Kissamos from Chania Airport is by taking a combination of buses. First, travelers need to take a bus from Chania Airport to Chania city center. This leg of the journey takes 45 minutes and costs €2 ($2.20, £1.70) to €4 ($4.40, £3.40). Upon reaching Chania, passengers must transfer to another bus heading to Kissamos. This second bus ride takes 1 hour and 5 minutes, costing an additional €3 ($3.30, £2.60) to €6 ($6.60, £5.20). The total cost for this trip ranges from €5 ($5.50, £4.30) to €10 ($11, £8.60), making it the most economical option. The total travel time, including transfers, is 2 hours and 50 minutes.
The quickest way to get to Kissamos from Chania Airport is by taking a taxi. The distance between Chania Airport and Kissamos is 55 kilometers (34 miles). The journey typically takes 47 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the fare ranges from €80 ($88, £69) to €95 ($105, £82). This option provides a direct and hassle-free transfer, ideal for those who prioritize time over cost. The convenience of a taxi means no waiting for bus schedules or making transfers, allowing travelers to reach their destination swiftly. Taxis offer the comfort of door-to-door service, which is particularly advantageous for those with heavy luggage or traveling in a group.
For families with kids, the best way to get to Kissamos is by booking a private transfer or a family-friendly tour. Private transfers offer the convenience of a direct, door-to-door service without the hassle of navigating public transportation or managing multiple transfers with children. These services can be booked in advance and typically cost €100 ($110, £86) to €120 ($132, £103) for the entire family. The journey from Chania Airport to Kissamos takes 1 hour and 10 minutes, providing a comfortable and stress-free experience. Alternatively, families can opt for a private tour that includes transportation and sightseeing, such as a day trip from Kissamos port to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. These tours are designed to be family-friendly, offering amenities like snacks, refreshments, and guided activities suitable for children. The best time to book these services is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Booking in advance ensures availability and often secures better rates, making the journey enjoyable and memorable for the entire family.
For a trip to Kissamos, the Minivan Class is the best transfer vehicle. This vehicle category is perfect for accommodating larger families or groups, with space for up to eight passengers and six pieces of baggage. The Minivan Class is particularly suitable for the relatively smooth roads leading to Kissamos, providing a relaxed and comfortable travel experience. This vehicle type not only comfortably holds all passengers and their beach gear or historical tour accessories but also ensures that everyone arrives refreshed and ready to enjoy the offerings of Kissamos.
Kissamos, also known as Kastelli, is a town and municipality located on the northwestern coast of Crete, Greece, 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of Chania. The town's economy is primarily based on agriculture, olive oil production, wine-making, and tourism. Kissamos is famous for its beaches, including the famous Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach, which attract visitors from around the world. The cost of living in Kissamos is relatively affordable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing €27 ($30, £23). The town features an archaeological museum showcasing Roman mosaics and other artifacts. Kissamos serves as a gateway to nearby attractions, with its port offering ferry services to the Peloponnese and boat excursions to surrounding islands. The area is characterized by its landscapes, combining mountains, lowlands, and seaside scenery, as well as its warm hospitality and delicious local produce, including olive oil, honey, and wine.
Listed below are the different ways to get to Kissamos from Heraklion:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Kissamos from Chania:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Kissamos from Rethymnon:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Kissamos from Agios Nikolaos:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Kissamos from Hersonissos:
Yes, Kissamos is definitely worth visiting. This coastal town on the northwestern tip of Crete offers a blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and authentic Cretan culture. The town's archaeological significance, with sites like the ancient city of Polyrrinia and the Roman mosaics in the local museum, adds a historical dimension to its appeal. Visitors can enjoy local Cretan cuisine at traditional taverns, explore scenic hiking trails, and partake in various water activities. The combination of beautiful beaches, historical sites, and cultural experiences makes Kissamos a compelling destination for travelers looking to explore the diverse offerings of Crete.
Yes, booking a transfer in advance to visit Kissamos is highly recommended. Given the distance from Chania Airport to Kissamos, pre-booking a transfer ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey. While public transportation options like buses are available, they may involve multiple transfers and waiting times, which can be inconvenient, especially for families with children or those arriving late at night. Private transfers offer the convenience of direct, door-to-door service, reducing travel time and stress. The cost for a private transfer typically ranges from €80 ($88, £69) to €120 ($132, £103), depending on the service provider and vehicle type.
