Coming from HMU Campus in Heraklion?
If you're a student joining us from the HMU campus in Heraklion, getting to Chania is easy and affordable:
By Bus: The most convenient option is the KTEL intercity bus, which departs hourly from Heraklion Central Bus Station and arrives in Chania in about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Tickets cost approximately €10–15.
By Car: If you're carpooling or renting a vehicle, the drive along the E75 National Road takes about 2 hours (135 km).
By Shuttle or Private Transfer: For groups or those seeking comfort, private transfers are available and take around 1 hour and 45 minutes, though they are more expensive.
How to Reach Chania
By Plane
Chania is served by the Chania International Airport (CHQ), located just a few kilometers from the city center. You can reach Chania by:
Direct international flights from major European cities including London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Amsterdam, and more (especially during the summer season).
Domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki operate daily, making it easy to connect from international arrivals in mainland Greece.
Once you land, you can reach the city center by public bus, taxi, or rental car. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and is a budget-friendly option.
By Ferry
Prefer a scenic route? Ferries to Chania depart from Piraeus Port (Athens) and arrive at Souda Port, just outside the city. The ferry journey takes approximately 9–10 hours and is available daily, especially during the high season.
You can also reach Chania via ferry from:
Kythira
Antikythira
Gythio (Peloponnese)
Upon arrival at Souda Port, local buses and taxis are readily available to take you into the heart of Chania.
Getting Around
Chania is well-connected by public transport, including intercity buses (KTEL) that link the airport, port, and surrounding towns. Taxis are also available, and car rentals offer flexibility if you plan to explore more of Crete.
MAICh
Our venue for AI ICON 2025.
MAICh is located about 3 km southeast of Chania city center, 13 km from the airport, and just 1 km from Souda Port.
From Chania Airport:
Taxi: The most direct option. A taxi ride to MAICh costs approximately €30. Taxis are available right outside the arrivals terminal.
Bus: Take a local bus to Chania Central Bus Station (KTEL) for about €2.50, then transfer to Bus No. 13 toward Souda. Get off at the MAICh stop on Souda Avenue.
From Chania City Center:
Bus: Bus No. 13 departs every 30 minutes from Sofokli Venizelou Square (AGORA) and also from Square 1866 (closer to the KTEL station). Tickets cost €1.20 if bought in advance or €2.00 on board.
Taxi: A taxi from the city center to MAICh costs around €12.
From Souda Port:
Tip: The MAICh bus stop is located directly on Souda Avenue, just outside the institute’s premises. Be sure to check the Chania City Bus website for the latest schedules.