When is a car useful?

For several places in western Crete, a car may add flexibility. For a stay around the old harbour, compare renting only on selected days. A trip towards Elafonissi or the Kissamos area should account for the full route and parking. Do not build a schedule solely from straight-line distances or beach photographs.

Collecting your car at CHQ Airport

Confirm CHQ and your supplier’s meeting procedure. Collection near the airport can involve a shuttle; check the process for a delayed flight. On return, leave time for contract-required refuelling, reaching the office and inspection. Driving time to the airport does not account for all these steps.

Choose your car and understand the costs

For winding roads, choose a transmission and size you handle comfortably. Boot space still matters for families. If considering unpaved access, including a possible Balos itinerary, obtain a precise answer about permitted roads before committing. Also compare the cost of returning in Heraklion if your flights use different airports.

Deposits & payment cardsCompare two quotes

The detail not to miss

A beach access shown on a map does not prove your rental car is permitted there.

Questions before you book

Can I drive a rental car to Balos?

Check your intended access and contractual exclusions. Do not use a track without explicit permission; consider another option if the use is prohibited.

Is an automatic always available?

No. Select automatic transmission and check it appears in the confirmation, especially if you do not want to drive a manual.

AFTER THE DRIVE, THE DISCOVERIES

What will you do while you’re there?

Car rental location : Chania — Greece (CHQ)

Tour and activity ideas related to your destination. Choose around your accommodation, then check dates on GetYourGuide.

Boat trips

Boat trips · Chania

Take a break on the water during your stay. Compare departure ports, duration and the operator’s weather-related conditions.

View on GetYourGuide
Tours & activities

All activities · Chania

Explore tours, tickets and day trips offered for this destination. Compare the itinerary and activity language before choosing.

View on GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide affiliate links: CARQIVO may earn a commission on an eligible booking. same tab.

Before you book

Check the meeting point, parking and any included transport. Activities do not necessarily start near the airport.

Book the activity and car separately. Check prices, availability, language and cancellation terms with the partner; these ideas are not live offers.

MOBILE DATA FOR YOUR TRIP

An eSIM for your stay

Online maps, messages and tickets: explore Yesim eSIM plans. First compare them with the data already included in your mobile plan.

Explore Yesim eSIM plans

This link opens the Yesim homepage. Choose your country and plan on their website.

Yesim affiliate link via Travelpayouts: CARQIVO may earn a commission on an eligible purchase.

Check before you buy
  • Your phone must support eSIM and be unlocked by your carrier.
  • Check the covered countries, included data, validity period and when the plan starts. Coverage and speed depend on the network and location.
  • Do not assume that standard calls and SMS are included. Download maps and tickets for offline use too; buying an eSIM is separate from renting a car.
Check compatibility on Yesim

Sources & checks

Sources support collection locations and general information. Supplier terms, prices and opening hours must be confirmed for your booking.

DiscoverCars: official page for this collection point

DiscoverCars affiliate partner — CARQIVO may receive a commission when you book.

DiscoverCars: help centre and offer terms France Diplomatie: official country information (in French)

Editorial guide • September 2026 · 2026-09-13