Car & Van Hire - Chania

Located on Crete’s northwestern Coast, Chania has sun, sea, and plenty of sightseeing opportunities. With so much to do and see, having a car will help you truly appreciate the city. Here’s how to choose the right rental car in Chania for your trip.

Enterprise car hire locations - Chania

Finding a car rental in Chania

The first step to renting a car is making sure you have everything that is required. If you choose Enterprise, you’ll need your driver's license, a second form of ID (such as a passport), and a debit or credit card.

What to consider when choosing a car rental in Chania

Before you can take to the roads of ​Chania, you’ll first need to consider what car is best suited to the shape of your trip.

Most of the roads in Chania are in good condition, making a luxury car perfect for comfortable cruising around the city in style. You might even consider a convertible for an open-air drive. After all, you’ll want to make the most of the sun and the sea while cruising along the coast.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous getaway, it’s worth renting a car that can tackle uneven terrain. For uneven coastal roads and tight mountain routes and compact SUVs ​​​may be your best option.

Finding a car rental at Chania Airport

Before touching down in Crete, you’ll ideally have your rental car at ​Chania Airport waiting for you. With this in mind, it’s best to make sure you’ve booked your rental car long before you take off.

Booking a rental car in advance can save you the stress of worrying about getting around on your visit. It also means you can search for more economical options and see if any deals or discounts work with your holiday budget.

Booking ahead is the best way to secure your preferred vehicle, as walk-up availability at the nearest Enterprise branch can be limited during busier periods.

Finding a car rental at Chania port

If you’d rather not fly, you can get the ferry from mainland Greece to Chania port. Also known as the Port of Souda or the New Port of Chania, Chania port is situated in the northern part of the Chania municipality. It is approximately six kilometres from Chania Town and 14 kilometres from Chania Airport.

While you can get a bus from Chania port, getting a rental car gives you a better opportunity to explore Chania and neighbouring towns close by. If booking with Enterprise, you can arrange to have your rental car dropped off close by. That will ensure you can get on the road to Chania without delay.
 

Car rental prices in Chania

Chania car rental prices are determined by how far in advance you book, the season you’re booking in, and the type of car you want.

Rental cars in Chania are typically more expensive during the summer months. That is peak tourist season, so demand is high. If you book further in advance, though, you’re more likely to find deals and discounts that bring the price down.

The type of car you rent will likely influence the price, with Economy and Mini cars often being cheaper than larger Intermediate cars.

You’ll also find that age can influence the price of your rental car. The cost of renting for a driver who is 21 to 22 years old will be higher than for someone aged 23 and above.

Make sure you factor add-ons into your rental car budget. For example, if you want to add an extra driver when renting a car with Enterprise, you’ll be charged an extra four euros plus taxes.

Where to go in Chania

From beautiful natural scenery to charming historic quarters, Chania has something to offer all types of travellers.

With cobbled streets, traditional tavernas, pastel-coloured buildings, and vine-covered alleyways, the Old Town is a must-see location. You can catch a glimpse of the Venetian Harbour as you walk through the streets, although the 14th-century harbour is worth a trip in itself.

In Chania, you will find one of the world’s oldest lighthouses. The Venetian Lighthouse is said to have been built in the 16th century. With the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the White Mountains on the other, it’s a beautiful place to spend a sunset after a busy day exploring the Old Town.

For adventure-seekers, a hike along the Samaria Gorge is a great way to add some action to your trip. A short drive away from Chania, the gorge is located in the White Mountains National Park.

At 16 kilometres long, the longest in Europe, the trail takes approximately six hours to hike. While the terrain is rocky, the route has signposts and toilets along the way, making for a pleasant day trip with sensational views.

When’s best to travel to Chania

With a warm, Mediterranean climate and minimal precipitation, Chania is best visited between the months of April and October.

In the spring months, between April and June, the milder weather makes it ideal for taking hikes and exploring the city on foot. Temperatures are generally between 15℃ and 25℃. The longer daylight hours give you a chance to fully explore the region’s wildflowers, including wild orchids, tulips, and poppies.

Similarly, temperatures in September and October average between 20℃ and 27℃, perfect for a stroll through the city’s markets.

If you’re looking for a beach getaway, July and August are the best months to visit Chania. Temperatures reach up to 30℃, although the sea breeze helps keep things cool. Just be prepared for crowds, as the summer months are also peak tourist season.

If you prefer a quieter (and cheaper) retreat, visiting Chania in the off-season between November and March could be best. Outdoor exploration is still an option, as temperatures average between 10℃ and 15℃. On rainy days, you can make the most of the museums, bars, and restaurants Chania has to offer.

Car rentals with Enterprise

Whatever shape your trip to Chania takes, make sure you get the most the city has to offer. ​​

Enterprise has affordable car rentals in Chania and modern, stylish and well-maintained vehicles. That means visitors to the island of Crete can get to Chania without hassle or worry.