How to Get ThereHow to Get There
How to Reach Crete
Any delegate travelling from outside Greece can reach Crete by plane, landing either at Chania International Airport (CHQ) or Heraklion International Airport (HER).
Both airports operate regular domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki throughout the year, as well as numerous direct international connections during the tourist season (May to October).
Please note that in May, when the conference takes place, the tourist season is in full swing. You may find direct flights from several major European capitals to either Chania or Heraklion.
If there is no direct connection from your city, you can fly via Athens (Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport) and then take a domestic flight to either Chania or Heraklion.
Both airports are conveniently situated close to Rethymnon:
Chania Airport is approximately 62 km west of Rethymnon.
Heraklion Airport is approximately 79 km east of Rethymnon.
Alternatively, you may reach Crete by ferry:
The Port of Souda (Chania) and the Port of Heraklion are connected to Piraeus (Athens) with daily ferry routes.
From either port, you can continue your journey to Rethymnon by car, taxi, or intercity bus (KTEL).
Car rental services are available at both Chania and Heraklion airports and ports.
Delegates can book a vehicle in advance through international online platforms (such as Rentalcars, DiscoverCars, or Skyscanner) or directly with local rental companies operating at the terminals.
Booking early is recommended, especially during May, when the tourist season is already underway.
How to Reach Rethymnon from Chania
By Car or Taxi
You can hire a car directly at the airport or port and drive to Rethymnon via the Northern Highway (E75).
The drive takes about 1 hour and follows the northern coast of Crete.
A taxi from Chania Airport or Souda Port to Rethymnon costs approximately €100–120 (shared rides are also possible).
By Bus
There are some direct buses from Chania Airport to Rethymnon.
If you miss them, take the local bus from the airport to the Chania central KTEL bus station (around 30 minutes).
From there, intercity buses (KTEL) to Rethymnon run every 1–2 hours, with a travel time of about 75–90 minutes.
For updated schedules and ticket information, please visit: https://www.e-ktel.com/en/
How to Reach Rethymnon from Heraklion
By Car or Taxi
You can rent a car at Heraklion Airport or Heraklion Port and drive to Rethymnon via the E75 National Road (direction: Chania).
The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
A taxi from Heraklion Airport to Rethymnon costs approximately €110–130, depending on the season and time of day.
By Bus
- From Heraklion Airport, walk across the airport yard to the local bus stop.
- Take the bus to the Heraklion KTEL bus station (a 15-minute ride, ticket price approx. €1.10).
- From there, take the intercity KTEL bus to Rethymnon; the trip lasts about 90 minutes.
For updated schedules and fares, please check:
https://www.ktelherlas.gr/en
Getting to the Gallos Campus from Rethymnon
The University of Crete – Gallos Campus (Panepistimioupoli Gallou) is located approximately 3.9 km southwest of the city center of Rethymnon.
The 20th Child and the Book Conference will take place at the heart of this campus.
By Local Bus
A city bus connects downtown Rethymnon with the University every 20 minutes.
One-way tickets cost €1.40 and can be purchased at kiosks or mini-markets.
Please refer to the local timetable atδρομολ
Look for the routes titled:
Tsesmes–Platanias–Perivolia–Rethymnon–University Gallou (towards campus)
University Gallou–Rethymnon–Perivolia–Platanias–Tsesmes (towards downtown)
By Taxi
Taxis are available throughout the city; a ride from downtown to the campus costs €8–10.
You may also share a taxi with other delegates.
Local taxi service phone: +30 28310 25000
By Car
If you rent a car, you can park it in the designated parking areas on campus. It is recommended that you park your car either in Parking 6 or Parking 9 as these parking areas are closer to the conference venue. Volunteer students and on-site signage will assist delegates in finding the correct venue during the conference days.
Useful contacts
Parking spots in Rethymnon
Free Parking Spots
You’ll find several reliable options for free parking:
- Free parking lot near the marina. It’s close to the old town and usually has space in the morning.
- Right side of this lot is free. The left side is paid—check the signs before leaving your car.
- Lot behind the fortress. It’s a short uphill walk to the old harbor.
- Large free lot at the west entrance. Best option if you don’t mind walking a bit more.
- Gravel lot near the public stadium. Less known, but handy.
Paid Parking
Some travelers prefer the security and convenience of paid lots.
- Very affordable lot near the marina. Walkable to everything.
- Same lot mentioned earlier, but the left section is paid.
- Underground parking next to the city park. Cool in summer, low prices.
- Expensive lot at the port entrance. Convenient, but steep prices.
- Another high-cost option near the old town gate.
Gallos Campus Map
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