Transport choices between resorts
Make the most of your island holiday by hiring a car – perhaps for part of the week or the whole holiday. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace and mixing it up with a day out to find a lovely beach and another by the pool. It is best to book in advance as prices rise as the season gets busier.
Crete
You’ll find many options for car rental at Heraklion (HER) and Chania airports (CHQ).
Malia is around 30 minutes' drive from Heraklion while Rethymnon is 60km (one hour) from Chania, 134km from Heraklion (two hours), 204 km from Agios Nikolaos (three hours) and 286 km from Sitia (4.5 hours).
Vehicles drive on the right and have the right of way when coming from that side.
Public buses connect visitors to the cities but for convenience and time-economy a car is the best option.
Another choice is to take private transfers between resorts.
Cyprus
Cyprus is the third largest island with many gorgeous places to visit. Fly into Larnaca or Paphos airports where it is easy to pick up a hire car.
There's no need to worry when it comes to driving in Cyprus as you drive on the left, and the roads are generally quiet. Resorts can get busy, but as soon as you are just outside the towns there is nothing but wonderful scenery.
Roads are well taken care of so you can drive from mountains to beaches to waterparks in no time. Enjoy sightseeing in some charming cities, including Kyrenia with its castle, and the beautiful beaches and resorts of Paphos. Head to the Limassol District and visit the idyllic mountain village of Omodos and the surrounding krasohoria (wine villages) for some unforgettable views.
Private transfers can also be arranged between resorts.
Car hire
Always check their terms and conditions before you buy to make sure you're aware of your responsibilities when you collect your car in Crete or Cyprus, and any additional charges.
Many car hire rentals add a mandatory fee for drivers under the age of 25.
Check what level of insurance is included for the hire car. In particular check how much the excess is (the amount you need to pay in the event of any accident) you may want to take out additional insurance.
Check what the fuel policy is with your car. Don't forget to fill up the tank before you drop it off if you've agreed to return it full! Find out if there's a maximum daily mileage - especially if you're planning to do a lot of driving. You'll need to pay a deposit (or pre-approve one) to pick up the car. Most car rental companies will only accept credit cards for this.