Chania

Departing from Birmingham Airport

If you’re wondering where to book your flight to Chania from, look no further than Birmingham Airport. With great shops, bars and restaurants, spending time at the airport will be an enjoyable way to start your holiday. 

Located in the Midlands and boasting great transport links, Birmingham is easy to get to from all over the UK. If you want to travel by public transport, you will find bus and coach services running directly to the airport. Trains will take you to Birmingham International train station, which is connected to the terminal by a free and frequent Air-Rail link taking just minutes. 

Those driving to the airport will find a choice of seven car parks, which are all easily accessible from the terminal by foot or via the courtesy shuttle bus. Book a parking space online in advance and save up to 70%. While you’re there, you could also pre-book entry into one of our airport lounges, which offer complimentary food and drinks, unlimited WiFi and great runway views. 

If you want to eat before you board, we have a fantastic selection of cafés, bars and restaurants for you to choose from. Giraffe do great kids’ menus for those travelling with children. Wetherspoons and Factory Bar and Kitchen offer a varied menu and drinks. If you’d like a coffee and a croissant, pick from Costa, Caffé Nero and Pret a Manger. 

Once you’ve eaten, why not browse the shops? There's great liquor and cosmetic deals at World Duty Free and Boots for all your travel essentials. All organised? Grab a magazine and a bag of sweets for the plane from WHSmith and relax in one of our spacious seating areas. 

Need currency for your trip abroad? Look no further. Whether you’re looking to top up your Euros before you fly, or withdraw a few UK pounds for your return, head over to our Travelex stores conveniently located in the Arrivals area of the terminal building and Departures Lounge.  If you prefer, you can pre-order your currency and get next day collection if you order before 3pm at Birmingham Airport. Convenient and fast, Travelex’s ATM machines are operational 24/7 and ready for any time of flight. They offer both pounds and Euros, and accept most major cards.

For more information on the other services available, see our guide to terminal facilities. Keen to get through the airport as quickly as possible? Check out our tips for the speedy traveller. 

Arriving at Chania Airport

Chania Airport is located about 15km east from Chania city centre, a drive which takes approximately 20 minutes in a taxi. You will find a taxi rank outside the airport terminal. During summer high season, you may want to pre-book a taxi to save queuing. 

If you’d prefer to drive yourself, you could hire a car for your time in Crete. There are several car hire companies located at the airport, it is usually best to organise your car hire before you arrive. 

If you’d prefer to take public transport, there are regular bus services to the cities of Chania and Rethymnon. You will find the bus stop located between the Arrivals and Departures buildings.  

Alternatively, pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive. 

What to expect in Chania

Chania’s pretty Venetian quarter is where you will want to spend most of your time in the town. Criss-crossed by narrow lanes that lead to a magnificent harbour, and peppered with atmospheric restaurants and bars, the old town is a treasure trove for holiday makers. The Venetian Harbour is perfect for a stroll and a coffee or cocktail, and the city’s active centre means it is just as charming in winter. 

Greek is the main language spoken in Chania, but most locals speak English very well. Even learning a few words in their native language will always be appreciated, though.  

Chania enjoys a warm and temperate climate. August is the hottest month with an average temperature of 27°C (77°F) and the coldest is January at 12°C (54°F).  

Culture in Chania

Chania's historic importance stemmed from its location as a port. Today, the deep, curving harbour, which gained its present appearance under the Venetians in the 14th century, is its main tourist attraction. To the east of the old harbour, you’ll find the city’s mosque, erected by the Ottoman Turks after they took Chania in 1645. 

The city has a handful of museums. Head to the Archaeological Museum housed in the Gothic Church of San Francesco to see archaeological finds from western Crete dating from Neolithic times through to the Roman era. The Maritime Museum of Crete traces Crete’s centuries-old relationship with the sea. Visit the Botanic Park & Gardens of Crete and wander past exotic flowers and fruit trees from all over the world.  

Visitors to Crete won’t be disappointed if they’re seeking typical Greek dishes. But, beyond the standard Greek favourites, Crete has its own food traditions. Cretan dishes are often made with a few fresh locally sourced ingredients. It’s fresh, healthy and most importantly delicious. You must try a Cretan cheese pie (kaltsounia), Gamopilafo (a rice dish often served at traditional Cretan weddings) and Mountain Bulbs (Askordoulakous).