samaria gorge tour from paleochora

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Bus from Palaiochora to Omalos

By Katia Luz

Hello, we are planning a round trip on Crete from 25 May to 7 June. On this trip we also want to walk the Samaria Gorge. So we are thinking of taking a room in Palaiochora and take a bus to Omalos to walk the gorge. To make the hotel reservation we need to know if there is a daily bus from Palaiochora to Omalos. Does it run on 1 June, or how we can handle the trip? We have a rental car but the beginning of the trip is Omalos and the end is Palaiochora, so this is not possible to do by car. Have you any tips? Thank you for your help.

Local Bus to Samaria from Palaiochora

Yiasas Monika,

Yes, you can take the local bus from Palaiochora to the northern end of Samaria Gorge which leaves each morning at 6.15 am. The Samaria National Park is open from May to October every year, so that the bus will depart during these times. However to be sure, it would be best to check the timetable with KTEL, the local bus company, or email or phone them to be sure that this bus will leave on the date you require. Then again check with your hotel when you arrive in Palaiochora, to be sure. Local Buses in Crete – Info KTEL Chania and Rethymnon Timetables are seasonal, so you must always check. You can then take the 16 km walk from north to south which starts at Omalos and ends at the village of Agia Roumeli on the south coast. Then you can take a ferry back to Palaiochora. There is another option on how to do this walk – which may mean you cannot do the whole 16 km track, but you will still experience the south of Crete, and walk 16 km if you choose.

The idea is to take the ferry from Palaiochora to Agia Roumeli in the morning, walk the gorge from south to north for part of the way, then return to Agia Roumeli before the evening ferry to Palaiochora. Or you could stay overnight in Agia Roumeli, which is a nice calm place after all the day walkers have left on the last ferry. Be sure to check the ferry schedules with Anendyk SA - the company that runs the ferries along the south coast of Crete, or check with your hotel in Palaiochora.

South coast ferry schedules here

About Palaiochora

See our info about Palaiochora here:

• Palaiochora Village
• Palaiochora Beaches
• Visit Elafonisi by Boat from Palaiochora

About Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge - Φαράγγι Σαμαριάς - WOW this scenery is magnificent and makes the early morning wake-up call worth it for this awe inspiring walk.

More information here

• Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge Walk Stories

Palaiochora is a sizeable village with all ranges of accommodation from budget to villas for a week-long holiday for a large family. See our accommodation suggestions below.

In Palaiochora we suggest the Aris Boutique Hotel run by a local family, it is very central, close to everything and easy for enjoying the cafes and restaurants of Palaiochora. Close to the Selino Kasteli historic site.

The affordable Eftihia Studios are close to the bus stop and convenient to everything in the village, with friendly staff and clean, simple rooms near to the beach. With happy flowers everywhere, you will be looked after by the locals in this family-run, homely place.

Agia Roumeli is a small, remote seaside village that has grown a little because it is situated at the end of the Samaria Gorge walk. Or at the beginning, depending on your point of view. There are quite a few small hotels, no over-sized sprawling resorts and no villas. See our suggestions below for budget and mid-range accommodation.

We suggest that you book well ahead as the walk is one of the most popular activities on the island.

In Agia Roumeli we suggest the Gigilos Hotel with its own taverna overlooking the beach.

Pachnes Bed and Breakfast is a lovely place just a little bit back from the main beach at Agia Roumeli, quiet and small. Get away from it all here, rest after your long walk.

Another alternative is to take the bus to Omalos Plateau the day before you want to hike, and stay on the plateau, so as to get a good early start before the heat and the coaches arrive.

The Neos Omalos Hotel welcomes hikers of Samaria Gorge and has a shuttle bus service to the start of the walk, provided at no cost. Learn great local knowledge from your friendly host. Great taverna food and fresh orange juice at breakfast.

Bus from Palaiochora to Omalos Information Pages

Bus from Palaiochora to Omalos - the information pages you might need are below.

Local Buses in Crete

Chania Town info

Palaiochora Info

Samaria Gorge Info

Omalos Plateau

Agia Roumeli Village

Chora Sfakion Village

Getting Here

Getting to Palaiochora - take a 1 hour flight from Athens to Chania with Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air , with many flights available per day.

Or take a 9.5 hour overnight ferry from Pireaus port of Athens to Souda port of Chania.

If you arrive into the airport or port of Chania, it is a journey of around 90 km to Palaiochora. Drive west on the national road for about 20 km until Tavronitis where you take the road south with signs to Palaiochora Παλαιόχωρα, then it is a further 70 km south.

Getting here by flights, ferries and hire car below.

Athens to Heraklion Flights

Athens to Chania Flights

Athens to Heraklion Ferry

Athens to Chania Ferry

Santorini to Heraklion Crete Ferry

Car hire in Crete is a really good idea as it is a large island 60 km by 260 km. There is so much to explore.

When you book with our car rental partners - Rental Centre Crete - you are supporting a local company with excellent service and easy online booking. We are sure you will be well looked after by the team. Choose from hybrid, electric or regular vehicles .

We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the We Love Crete team. Evíva!

Yiásas! Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia are the We Love Crete team We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel About us   Contact Us   Kaló taxídi!

• Bus From Palaiochora to Omalos

About the Team

Yiásas! Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia are the We Love Crete team We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel About us

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We are original, independent and unsponsored.

“We bring more to your Travel Experience.”

Sabine Travel specialize in Hiking Excursions with over 20 proven years of adventure travel experiences who have gained knowledge..

samaria gorge

Daily 07:30, one of the two longest gorges in europe.

At the altitude of 1230 m. Located 4,000 feet above sea level. Enjoy a trek in the gorge on an excursion that begins with a pick-up in Paleochora and a drive to Omalos, in the White Mountains.

irini gorge

Mediterranean forest.

At the altitude of around 560 m. The gorge starts at the village of Agia Irini and is 7 km long. The extended walk of 12 km ends at Sougia

Balos gramvousa

Monday 08:00.

Enjoy a fantastic trip to one of Cretes’ most stunningly beautiful beaches. The blue lagoon of Balos is truly amazing – warm waters, crystal clear aquamarine sea and soft pale sand..

DOLPHIN SPOTTING

If you have the great fortune to visit Paleochora, you won’t want to miss the chance to go dolphin spotting.There is nothing more spectacular than seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat

Anydri Gorge

Anidri village is at 5 kilometers north-east from Paleochora. It is built on the edge of a precipice at a height of 180m. from which dominates the Libyan Sea. Its main attraction is the Church of St. George, with a well maintained 1323 murals by John Pagomenos. From the village paths lead to three smaller bays within two kilometers, and the small gorge Anidri.

Monastery of the 99 Holy Fathers

The Monastery of the 99 Holy Fathers is located in a lush green area near the village Azogyres, Selino province. It was built in 1864 by Konstantinos Kriaris at the site where, according to tradition, the 99 Holy Fathers lived, led by Saint John the Hermit, one of the best known Saints of Crete, who is considered the founder of asceticism on the island.The church of the 98 monks was built inside the rock and celebrates on October 7. In the Monastery there is a small museum with religious relics, historical and folkloric items.

The Ancient City Lissos Starts on July

Aptera and chania tour, explore the ancient and the mondern north crete.

One of the most interesting tours you can have.

CRETAN BEER AND OLIVE OIL

Unique experience in a beer factory and an oil production unit, wine olives and herbs, winery – museum – botanical park.

Crete with the magnificent beaches, lovely people, beautiful towns and villages, is also known about its wine, its olive and its herbs. In this trip you have the opportunity to see, learn and taste them.

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Samaria gorge.

The Samaria Gorge hike starts at the Xyloskalo trailhead at an altitude of 1,250 meters in the midst of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori).  From the top, we saw sheer mountain slopes still covered with patches of snow.  At our feet was a steep trail winding its way down the mountain into the depths of the gorge.  The Samaria Gorge trail starts with a precipitous hike downhill along a switchback path sometimes bordered by a wooden handrail. If you have any sort of knee problems, take your time and hold on.This part of the trail lasts for almost two kilometers.

To book the Samaria gorge, you will need to book at least 1 day in advance.

Daily excursion from Psarakis travel in Paleochora to Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge.

Departure: 07am by bus or van. Meeting point: Psarakis travel office (near to the Port). Return by the ferry, from Agia Roumeli. Booking is needed, 1 day prior to the day of the trip.

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Related Projects

Irini gorge, hikes around paleochora.

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Tel: +30 2823041128

Mob: +30 6979594667 (24 hours)

Paleochora, Crete

CALL US:  (+30) 28220 24249 | (+30) 28220 23087 | (+30) 697 409 2913

Samaria Gorge Excursion – Book with Strata Tours

Samaria gorge: europes’ longest gorge walk.

C retes’ most famous attraction and the longest gorge walk in Europe. Spectacular scenery, an awe inspiring ravine and a real sense of achievement – to walk through Samaria Gorge is an unforgettable experience from the Omalos plateau, through the huge and impressive gorge and down to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli where you can swim in the crystal clear Libyan Sea.

We organize trips to Samaria Gorge throughout its’ open season which is typically 1st May till end of October.

This walk is only recommended for physically able people that have strong, comfortable footwear. Suitable for children over 6 years old (but that does depend on your child!)

• Every Monday and Friday
• A walk of approx 6 hours suitable for adults and older children
• Approx 16km
• Meal not included
• No guide necessary as the path is well defined in a designated national park
• Return transfer from Paleochora
• Bring with you: bottle of water, suncream, raincoat if needed

40 €   20 €   Children under 8 years old Extras to pay 5 Euro entrance fee for over 15 years old and 20.00 Euro boat ticket (children 4-12 years old 10 euro) (payable on the day)

• Pick ups from our office or your hotel from Falassarna (06.30) through Kissamos (07.00) Kolymbari (07.20) and drive to the Omalos plateau entrance of the gorge where there is time to purchase a hot drink and breakfast and use the facilities before you start.
• Walk through the gorge which is 16km and  takes approx 6 hours.
• Free time for some optional lunch, rest and swim at Agia Roumeli
• 17.30 boat departs to Paleochora.
• Arrive at Paleochora at apx 19.00 where your driver is waiting to take you back to your hotel. Approx bus transfer time 1 hour to Kissamos.

• Awe inspiring mountain scenery
• Full and varied day
• Real sense of achievement
• Swim on the South coast
• Beautiful boat trip
• Small transfer buses mean less pick up stops on the way so a more direct transfer for you
• Not such an early start as some of the other companies

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Kissamos, Tzanakaki Square, T: +30 28220 24249

Hiking to Samaria Gorge with Boat Trip to Paleochora

At our Office in Kissamos (Opposite Archeological museum, Georgiadaki, Kissamos 734 00)

About the Activity

What to expect.

Hike the breathtaking Samaria Gorge and enjoy a scenic boat trip to Paleochora ! Begin your adventure with a comfortable transfer to the Omalos Plateau , where you can take a break before starting your hike. From here, you will embark on a 16 km trek through the longest gorge in Europe, the magnificent Samaria Gorge . Take in the awe-inspiring landscapes as you walk at your own pace through this stunning national park.

Your journey continues as you emerge at the charming coastal village of Agia Roumeli . Here, you will have some free time to rest and explore. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea for a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun. This is the perfect spot to unwind after your invigorating hike.

The final leg of your adventure includes a picturesque ferryboat ride from Agia Roumeli to Paleochora , where a transfer will be waiting to take you back to Kissamos. This tour is perfect for those who love to explore national parks and are comfortable walking long distances. Expect six hours of hiking, filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking scenery.

• Walk through the longest European Gorge

• Rest in the beach on Agia Roumeli

• Enjoy a boat trip to Paloechora

How to Get There

Meeting place: at our office in Kissamos

Meeting time: 10 minutes before departure

Car parks nearby: within a 2 minute walk (free)

Departure Departure from Kissamos

Omalos Plateau

Hike the Samaria Gorge

Agia Roumeli

Boat trip to Paleochora

Return to Kissamos

Requirements

Minimum age: 6 years

Only suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness

Included Services

Bus Transfer (round-trip)

Not Included

Entry ticket to the National Park of Samaria (5€ for over 15 years old)

Boat Ticket to Paleochor (20€ for adults and 15€ for kids between 4 and 12 years old)

Bring Along

Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat

Hiking equipment

Comfortable shoes and clothing

Bottle of water

Good to know

Minimum age required is 6 years

Not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers

No pets allowed

Not recommended for people with reduced mobility

1-click cancellation

7 days/week support

Strata Tours Kissamos

More by strata tours kissamos, private jeep tour in gramvousa peninsula and balos lagoon with lunch, private jeep tour in rodopou peninsula and beach of menies with lunch, you might also like, boat trip to balos beach & gramvousa from kissamos, boat trip from falasarna to the balos lagoon & gramvousa, boat trip to gramvousa and balos with transfer from chania area.

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• Destinations

Paleochora Crete: A Complete Travel Guide

• 9 July 2024

If you’re searching for where to stay in Crete, Greece, then look no further than glorious Paleochora on the south west coast.  This small town was a bit of a hippy hang out back in the last century and whilst times have changed and Paleochora now offers all mod cons, it still retains that charming laid back beachside vibe. 

In fact, the first person I encountered as I got off the bus was a 60-something-year-old gentleman with a flowing grey mane and nothing more on his person than a toothy grin and a pair of worn speedos.

Going with the flow is what holidays are all about and Crete’s Paleochora (or Paleohora) provides a great base for your own summer of love.  Paleochora is one of the best places to stay in Crete, with natural beaches, epic hikes and delicious local food to sample . 

Table of Contents Hide

How to get to paleochora crete, how to get to crete, relax on the paleochora beaches, paleochora accommodation, where to eat, day trips from paleochora, things to do in paleochora crete, best time to visit paleochora, where to go after visiting paleochora.

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links to products or services I’ve found useful. If you make a purchase through these links I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This helps keep the travel blog running, so thank you.

Paleochora is located close to the main airport and ferry port of Chania.  So it’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a beach town with other activities nearby.   

Regular buses, which go from Chania (and Heraklion), also make Paleochora a great destination if you’re travelling around Crete without a car.   

The bus from Chania centre to Paleochora goes four times a day in peak season (three times a day on Sundays).  Tickets cost from €8.30 one way and can be bought from the bus station in Chania or online. 

The journey takes just under two hours and I enjoyed viewing the winding mountain scenery on my trip.  Visit the Ktel bus website for the latest Crete bus timetables.

Pro Tip : when searching transport timetables Paleochora can also be spelt as Palaiochora or Paleohora.

Alternatively, for a fast and efficient journey, book a private transfer from Chania airport to Paleochora. 

Crete has two international airports, at Chania and Heraklion.  Ryanair, Easyjet, British Airways and Jet2 all offer frequent flights from London and/or Manchester. I use Skyscanner to search for the best flight prices.

It’s easy to combine a trip to Paleochora in Crete with other Greek island hopping, for example:

• Ferry from Santorini to Heraklion with Seajets, journey time is 1 hour and 50 minutes.
• Ferry from Milos to Chania with Seajets, journey time from 3 hours.

I use ferryhopper to compare and book the best Greek ferry prices all in one place. It saves a lot of time and I find the site very easy to use.

Paleochora is located on a small peninsula of Crete, which means there are not one but two main beaches within a short walk from the centre.  So if the wind is up on one side you can head to the other side for a calmer day.

Pachia Ammos Beach (West Side of Paleochora)

A huge stretch of golden sandy beach with plenty of space to spread out.  Water sports are on offer here alongside plenty of beach bars, sunbeds and umbrellas. 

Carry on to the far west end of the beach for more natural and secluded areas with rocks, the odd nudist and of course the gorgeous sea to dive into.  This is a wonderful spot to watch the vibrant Cretan sunsets from.

Chalikia Beach (East Side of Paleochora)

In contrast to Pachia Ammos, Chalikia beach is a rocky affair.  Perhaps as a result, it’s generally less busy than its sandy neighbour.  Although enjoyably rough and ready, there are still umbrellas and sunbeds for hire and bars to fill up at. I spent plenty of time relaxing on these two very different beaches.

You might well be thinking that’s it for beaches for your holiday to Paleochora.  However, you really are spoilt for choice, as there are in fact loads of other great beaches to explore in this part of southern Crete.

Keratides Beach

Ahh, my favourite beach in the region.  Keratides Beach is out to the east from Paleochora centre.  To get here you’ll pass by some dilapidated greenhouses. I also encountered some very territorial geese on my trips here.  

Making the effort to walk the extra 10 minutes along the shore will pay off, as you reach the stretch in front of Pearl Cavo bar.  By the time you reach this part of the coast, there are fewer people, a relaxed atmosphere and rustic sunbeds under softly swaying trees.   

Maybe it’s the position of the bar, just far back enough so as not to intrude on the beach but close enough to tempt, or the laid-back and friendly staff, but even if you didn’t set out to have cocktails on the beach in the middle of the day, I defy you not to indulge.

Anidri Beach, Gialiskari Beach and Ammoudia Beach

A triumvirate of beaches are situated at the start of the Anidri Gorge hike, with umbrellas on one side and open space on the other.  Have fun checking them all out on your return from the walk.

There’s a Kantina to fill up on food and drink here.  A free bus leaves from Paleochora.  Check the poster outside Sabine Travel for latest times.

Psilos Volakas Beach

This small beach manages to pack a lot in, a bar, umbrellas, parking and some large rocks to dive into the sea from if that takes your fancy.

Azzurro Beach (Umbrella Beach)

A flat expanse of beach with free umbrellas if you consume from the eponymous bar (which you walk straight through if approaching from the main coast road).  Further along from the umbrellas, there are some trees that provide great natural shade for an afternoon snooze.

Gramméno/Grammenou Beach

A wonderful and popular beach, with the Gramméno campsite behind it.  If you want an organised beach with small bars and plentiful umbrellas, Gramméno has got you covered. 

However, its best-kept secret is the natural area at the headland.  Walk over from the main beach and have fun exploring the sandy paths and Mars-like rock formations away from the crowds.  After that, take a dip and relax on the much less populated small pebbly bay at the end of the main beach.

Krios Beach

Within easy cycling distance along a flat route from Paleochora.  Krios makes a good place to park bikes and stop for food at the snack bar. 

At Krios you can pick up the E4 hiking path , which crosses multiple European countries, including Greece.  Walk along the beach and go over the rocks at the far end.  Arrows point the way but they aren’t that clear (or maybe I have an odd sense of direction), go straight up and over and drop back down the wooden ladder onto the remaining section of beach. 

From here, follow the E4 signs leading up and away from the beach over some rocks all the way to Viena beach.  The initial few metres are a little tricky but after that, it settles into an easy to follow trail. 

Viena Beach

A mysterious place, Viena beach is home to slowly submerging marble columns and bits of ancient pottery.  I loved being able to swim amongst the small number of ruins, floating on the sea as my mind drifted across the centuries. 

This historical daydreaming came to an abrupt end though when I got stung multiple times by something lurking under the sea.  Take water shoes to avoid the same thing happening to you.  The fact that this little beach is only reachable by foot simply adds to the mystique.

Elafonisi Beach

I’ve saved the best for last as the fabulous Elafonisi beach is a total delight, a vision in pink.  It has a reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Crete and it lives up to it.

Glorious crystal clear waters lap at the curved bays and there really is pink sand.  Not all over the place but if you look at the water’s edge you’ll see it.  The shape of this coast changes each year or two as the wind blows sand in and out again. 

If you want to avoid the myriad umbrellas, head in the direction of the lighthouse, where you’ll pass through sand dunes and come out on a beautifully soft sandy beach. 

There are limited large hotels to choose from in Paleochora. Instead, there are plenty of apartment hotels and studios to rent. These are available all over town and although some can be booked on arrival, during peak season apartments and studios book up very quickly. Book ahead if you want to guarantee a particular option.

I regularly use Booking.com to book accommodation as they have a wide selection of properties with plenty of images and reviews and offer a good price.

Hotel in Paleochora

Libyan Princess – a lovely boutique hotel offering quality rooms at a good price. Rooms come with a balcony as standard. A great choice if you want to enjoy the beautiful swimming pool whilst you’re here.

Studios in Paleochora

Blue Horizon – located right on Paleochora’s sandy beach, Pachia Ammos, so you can wake up and be on the beach in seconds. Choose one of the modern and clean studios with a kitchenette if you want self-catering. Alternatively, book one of the standard rooms with a great breakfast included to start each day.

Endless Blue – situated on the edge of town but still within walking distance to the centre. Modern rooms offer a gorgeous view of the coast, as the property is up a hill. Ideal for taking in the stunning Paleochora sunset.

Oreia – slightly out of the centre, in a quiet location close to Chalikia beach, on the east side of Paleochora. These highly rated apartments and studios are within a five-minute walk from the restaurants in the centre of Paleochora.

Other options:

Blue Paradiso offers bungalows leading right onto the rustic beach of Keratides.  On the opposite side, Andel Homes provide beautiful modern individual apartments adjacent to Pachia Ammos Beach.

If you prefer to camp, Camping Paleochora is located over the road from Keratides beach.

Paleochora has plenty of options for eating out and sampling some delicious Crete food.  Quiet side streets hide small local restaurants, perfect for a romantic meal.  Greek musicians rotate around the restaurants adding to the ambience. 

At night, various streets near the seafront are closed to cars and make it a wonderful spot for an evening wander.  However, if you’re looking for a bit more life there are also plenty of bars, some with live music, and a buzzy atmosphere amongst the colourful pavement tables in the centre of town. 

• The Little Angels – Set in a superb garden area with great service. Fresh fish available – swordfish is a popular option.
• Samaria Restaurant – A family-run restaurant in a peaceful corner of town, a little away from the main drag.  Sit out front or in their homely terrace at the back.  Delicious fresh local food at a very reasonable price.  Try the dakos, you won’t be disappointed.
• Aunts Tavern – Another great local place, serving home-cooked Cretan food, located down a pedestrian alley.  Gets very busy so come early, or book in advance.
• Pizzeria Odysseia – A pizza restaurant directly on the waterfront.  Pizza’s are large with a great selection of toppings.  They also do take away.
• Vakakis Family Café – Amazing crepes.  Chocolate sauce and strawberries?  Yes please.  And they are very generous with the chocolate.
• Everest Food Grillhouse – For quick, super cheap, tasty take away gyros.  Grab a couple before heading to the beach for a budget day out.
• Monika’s Garden Wine Bar – If you’re looking for something a little bit classy or for when only a wine will do.
• Agios Bar – Funky music regularly wafting through the airwaves and a cool vibe.
• Old School House, Anidri – A special mention for this restaurant outside of Paleochora.  Given that it’s the only place around after the exertions of the Anidri Gorge hike, they could serve up anything and hungry hikers would be happy, but the food here is spectacular.  Staff quench your thirst with a jug of ice-cold water whilst you decide what to order.  Menus are on blackboards.  I recommend the divine Greek pigs in blankets (bacon rolled around almonds and dates with a hint of spice).  The downside is that they may have ruined Christmas for me, as I’ll never be able to reproduce my own anywhere close to this good.

The availability of so many beaches near Paleochora makes it very tempting to do little else but become a beach bunny whilst in Crete.  That being said, if you’ve gathered together the energy to get active, hiking is popular here and Paleochora has a couple of options for fantastic day trips.

Hike Anidri Gorge (2.5 hours return)

Set off from the back of the car park at Anidri beach.  There’s a small sign marking the start and an abandoned truck on the right of the entrance. 

Whilst not long in distance, this hike requires a degree of physical strength and fitness.  Some sections involve scrambling up and over rocks.  There’s also one particularly tall and slippery boulder, which someone has attached a short rope to to help.

The route is easy to follow as it’s marked with regular red paint dots and arrows, which turn to grey as you get near the end.  There’s also a black water tube running the length of the gorge which will help you stay on track.  Rocks along the way provide good shade for food and water breaks.

Whilst you can power there and back in one go, I recommend walking an extra ten minutes, once you reach the end of the gorge, to go to Anidri village.  There you can take in some well-earnt refreshments at the magnificent Old School House restaurant. 

Exit the gorge via the closed gate (remember to shut it so the goats don’t get out).  Follow the paved track for five minutes then turn right on to the tarmacked road and walk another five minutes through the village until you see the restaurant on your right.

The garden is a tranquil haven to rest your weary legs and savour the view down the gorge, and out to the Libyan sea.  A view that also serves as a reminder that you’ve got to walk all the way back again to get to that shining blue jewel in the distance.  So take your time and enjoy the break. 

Prophet Eilias Church

If the return trip through the gorge isn’t enough exercise for you, extend your hike by another 30 minutes to get to the tiny Prophet Eilias church perched high up on the hillside.   

Just before you start the descent back into the gorge, there’s a hand-painted sign saying Chapel.  Follow this through a farmstead area (barking dogs included, thankfully on the other side of the fence).  Occasional signs and dabs of orange or grey paint on rocks mark the way.

When leaving the church you have the option to follow the red marks down the steps at the back of the building to return via the other side. 

This will eventually lead you along the main road to go back to the start of the gorge walk.  This route from the church is steep, slippery and difficult in parts.  Although if that sounds like your thing, it’s quicker than the ascent and goats greet you at the bottom.

Hike Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is one of the most well-known hikes in Crete and for good reason.  The gorge is huge.  Enormous.  Gigantic.  Feel your insignificance in the face of nature as you trek through it.

Take some incredible photos as you hike then use my article to find great hiking captions for Instagram .

Key Details

• Entrance to Samaria Gorge costs €5, cash only.
• Keep hold of your ticket as you will need to hand it in on your return.
• Hole in the floor toilets and cafés are available at the start.
• Take food and drink with you, although there area some water taps in the gorge. 
• Stopping areas are provided at regular points along the way, with times between them marked on maps.

The Ferry from Paleochora to Agia Roumeli

• Departs at 8.30 am, returns at 5.30 pm. Check latest timetable for up to date details.
• Journey time is from 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Tickets cost €40 return per person.
• Stops at Sougia on the way.

On arrival at Agia Roumeli take a stroll through the village, past crumbling stone bridges and churches, before reaching the start of Samaria Gorge. The advantage of starting at Agia Roumeli is that you’ll be walking in the opposite direction to the many bus tours that start at the Omalos end. 

It took around three and a half hours to walk from the ferry to Samaria village, including a lunch break and regular stops for photos. Use my article on Greece Instagram captions for photo captioning inspiration. 

I came back the same way without stopping and completed it in around two hours.  It is possible to continue the walk past Samaria village to Omalos but it’ll take another few hours and you’ll need transport or accommodation at the other end. 

Samaria Gorge is nature at its finest.  Birds sing songs you haven’t heard before and water gently tinkles away below as butterflies brush past.  Enjoy hopping across stepping-stones and bounding across wooden bridges pretending you’re in an adventure movie of your choice.

At the end of your hike, if the weather’s warm and you’ve enough time before the last return ferry, take a refreshing jump into the sea.  The Agia Roumeli beach is rocky and difficult to get into the water from but at this point, you’ll be happy to walk across the equivalent of hot coals just for a chance to cool off.

Here are some of the other top activities to do in Paleochora.

• Take one of the boat trips from Paleochora to gorgeous Elafonisi Beach (look for one that offers stops at Kedrodasos Beach and Viena Beach).
• If you enjoy fishing, take a private fishing and snorkeling tour to Elafonisi and beyond.
• Rent a bike from Sabine Travel and explore the coast.
• Hike part of the E4 European path for a day.
• Book a dolphin-watching trip with a local travel agency in Paleochora.
• Walk around the ruins of the 13 th Century Venetian Castel Selino, high up above the town.
• Wander the old town lanes and take a look inside the Church of Evangelistria to see its ornate decoration.
• Discover a football pitch with a view at the very tip of Paleochora.
• Explore the nearby ancient city of Lissos (book a day trip from one of Paleochora’s travel agents or take the ferry to Sougia then get a local boat to Lissos, or hike for around 1.5 hours).
• Depart to spend a couple of days on isolated Gavdos island (4 hours by ferry).

Paleochora is a beach town so for vibrant evenings and warm days the best time to visit is May to October. 

• Sea temperatures are warmest in August and stay above a comfortable 20°C from June to November.
• August is the hottest time to visit, with an average daytime temperature of 27°C.

Being the largest Greek island, Crete has plenty to explore . So once you’ve finished discovering Paleochora, head north to check out Balos, one of the Chania region’s best beaches .

As well as visiting Paleochora, base yourself in Chania town for a few days, so you can take a trip to both Balos and the ancient ruins of Aptera .

Whilst you’re on Crete, don’t miss out on visiting the world-famous Knossos Palace. Considered to be Europe’s oldest city, Knossos is steeped in Greek mythology and according to the legend was the home of the Minotaur.

Crete is full of wonderful places and mouth-watering food to experience. One of the best ways to combine both is to go on a food tour with a local. Get Your Guide offers an authentic cooking class in the White Mountains .

You’ll find out how to cook the traditional Cretan way, using only organic local ingredients. Make sure you sample plenty of the delicious locally-made wine and cheese throughout the day. This unique experience all takes place in the atmospheric scenery of Crete’s White Mountains.

If you’re looking at incorporating a trip to Crete into a Greek island-hopping itinerary, I strongly recommend that you add the sublime island of Folegandros to your plan. It’s much smaller and less well-known than Crete and offers a peaceful and slow pace of life, perfect for avoiding the crowds of nearby Santorini or Mykonos.

Check out more Greek island destinations with my guide to how to get the ferry from Corfu to Paxos .

For another beautiful island destination similar to Paleochora Crete, check out my guide to 5 days on Malta .

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I'm Katie and although I'm based in the UK I spend my spare time travelling the world. I've visited countless countries, from South America to Australia and many places in between. A meticulous travel researcher and organiser I can often be found working out the best way to get from A to B via public transport.

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How To Get To Samaria Gorge By Bus, Car or Guided Hike Tour: Crete Hiking Guide

• Written by Post author: Chloe Smulian
• Post last modified: Updated on August 29, 2024

Experience the most beautiful hike on the Greek island of Crete! Find out how to get to Samaria Gorge by bus, car, ferry, or guided hike tour and how much each option costs.

There’s no doubt that Samaria Gorge is THE most beautiful hike in Crete and one of the most spectacular hikes in Europe. But the one question that keeps coming up is ‘How exactly do you get there?’.

It’s a good question, by the way! You see, Samaria Gorge is a point-to-point hike. This means that the hiking trail starts in one location and ends at a different location (i.e. not the trailhead).

On this hike, the trail starts near the top of the White Mountains 1,800 meters above sea level, and ends 16km (10 miles) later at Agia Roumeli Beach.

It’s a breathtaking hike alright. But the logistics of getting to and back from the hike is tricky. Especially if you’re taking public transport or planning to drive there yourself.

We spent hours researching the best way to get to Samaria Gorge. From taking the public bus, and joining a guided tour, to getting there by car. So why let all those hours go to waste? Sharing is caring, right?

That’s why we’ve written this Crete travel guide! We’re sharing the 3 ways you can take to get to Samaria Gorge from easiest to most difficult, how much each option costs, and which one will suit your travel itinerary best.

We’ve also included a bonus option for those of you who want to do the easy (short) version of the hike.

Make sure you bookmark, share, or pin this Crete travel guide so you can refer back to it later. Here’s a sneak peak:

Getting To Samaria Gorge

There are 4 ways (including the bonus) to get to Samaria Gorge. The most difficult but most convenient option is getting yourself there by car.

The second option is getting there by bus (i.e. public transport). It’s the cheapest way to get to the hiking trail but takes the longest time.

The easiest but more expensive way of getting to Samaria Gorge is via a guided hike tour. And the last option for those who want to do the easy or short version of the hike, is to take the ferry.

We’ll explain each option in detail, including how much it costs, so you can decide what’s the best option for you.

Related Guide: First time in Crete? Find out how to get around Crete with or without a car. Whether that’s by public transport, guided bus tours, ferries, taxis, or renting a car, scooter, or quadbike – we’ve got you covered!

Best Place or Town To Stay For The Hike

Whether you’re getting to Samaria Gorge by car, bus, or guided tour, the best place to stay for the hike is in Chania.

Chania is the closest main town to the start of the hiking trail. It has easy access to the highway, bus stations, as well as pick-up and drop-off points for guided tours. 

Not only does this mean shorter travel time, but you’ll also have the benefit of arriving earlier and having more time to enjoy the hike before other hikers arrive.

Places To Stay in Chania

There are many hotel and accommodation options in Chania from budget-friendly to luxury. Here are some recommendations to get you started:

• Budget:   Boho City Hostel  (mixed dorm)
• Budget:   Alegria Pension
• Budget:   Earini Rooms and Apartments
• Mid-range:   Villa Margot
• Mid-range:   Metropolis House
• Mid-range:   Madonna Studios
• Luxury:   Venetian Palace
• Luxury:   Malmo Historic Hotel
• Luxury:   Castello Luxury Residence  (with private jacuzzi)
• Luxury:   Estia Residence  

Looking for more? Compare hotel prices in Chania on  Booking.com .

Related Guide: Samaria Gorge is a gorgeous but grueling hike. Make sure you’re prepared for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure by reading our Samaria Gorge Hike guide. We share what hiking gear or fitness level is required, what to pack, safety tips to know, as well as how long it really takes it finish this hike.

Save Me For Later

How To Get To Samaria Gorge by Car

We’re not going to lie – getting to Samaria Gorge by car is challenging. We know because that’s what we did and we don’t recommend it.

Not only will you have to prepare yourself to navigate around plenty of holes and hairpin turns. But also dodge cats, shrews, mountain goats, and other wildlife crossing the road in the dark with nothing but your headlights to guide you. Plus, you’ll need to take the bus and ferry for a portion of the trip anyway.

Samaria Gorge is a point-to-point hike, starting in the mountains and ending on the beach. This means that even if you drive to Samaria Gorge by yourself, you’ll need to take public transport to get back to the car.

It’s tricky alright – but not impossible. And we’ll show you exactly how you can get there by car if that’s what you wish. Don’t say we didn’t warn you though!

The only upside of driving is that you can stay wherever you want in Crete as long as you budget enough time to catch the bus to the trailhead in the morning.

We stayed in  Platanias , a small coastal town around 20 minutes drive from Chania.

Bonus Tip:  If you plan to drive, we’d recommend booking a car before your trip for cheaper car rental prices. You can compare prices for renting a car in Crete on  DiscoverCars.com  or  RentalCars.com .

Getting There by Car

The best way to get to Samaria Gorge by car is to drive to the small coastal town of Sougia. From here, you’ll take the bus to the start of the hike.

If you’re driving from Chania, it takes around 90 minutes to get to the  Sougia bus station . There are only 2 to 3 buses per day, so make sure you’re not late.

We’d recommend taking the 07:00 or earlier bus. You can check the bus schedule and book your tickets on the  KTEL website . Alternatively, you can also buy your bus tickets at  Roxani  coffee shop when you’re in Sougia. The bus ticket costs €4.80.

You’ll only need a one-way ticket from Sougia to Omalos (Samaria Gorge). After the hike, you’ll take the ferry back to Sougia where your car is parked.

We’d recommend arriving at the bus station 10 minutes beforehand (just in case). The bus sign is small. But you’ll know you’re in the right place because other hikers will be waiting for the bus too.

The bus ride from Sougia to the start of the Samaria Gorge hike takes another 90 minutes. Enjoy the mountain views or simply take a nap before the long hike.

Make sure to get off at the Omalos/Samaria bus station. From there, you can go to the cafe for some coffee and food. Otherwise, you can head to the entrance, buy your entry ticket and start the hike.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance will protect you against injury, illness, theft and even trip cancellation. It’s comprehensive cover in case anything goes wrong. We never go on a trip without it as we’ve had to use it many times in the past. Here are our favourite companies that offer the best value and service:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• AXA (for US residents)
• Outbacker (for UK residents)
• Allianz (for Germany residents)

How To Get Back From Samaria Gorge by Car

Getting back from Samaria Gorge to your car is easy. All you need is a ferry ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sougia.

It’s possible to buy ferry tickets inside the cafe at the entrance of the Samaria Gorge hike. But we don’t recommend it because they only sell ferry tickets that depart Agia Roumeli at 17:00.

We made that mistake when we hiked Samaria Gorge. The guy at the cafe told us that people take an average of 5 hours to hike Samaria Gorge. So the 17:00 ferry should give us more than sufficient time to finish the hike and have time to explore Agia Roumeli.

Big mistake! We’re both relatively fit and ended up taking 7 hours to complete the Samaria Gorge hike and walk another 3km to catch the ferry.

We would have missed the ferry if we didn’t jog the last 3km (on very sore feet). We were super rushed and were disappointed that we had no time to enjoy the town or the beach.

Five hours is probably doable if you’re hiking with few stops in between. But if you’re stopping to soak up the gorgeous views, taking photos along the way, and enjoying a lunch break admiring kri-kris (Cretan mountain goats), then 7 hours is more realistic.

Instead, we’d recommend buying tickets for the 17:30 or later ferry. You can buy the tickets once you arrive at Agia Roumeli. Or if you’re confident you’ll finish in time, you can also buy your ferry tickets online on the  Anendyk  website.

The ferry tickets cost €15 and the ride from Agia Roumeli to Sougia takes only 30 minutes.

Alternatively, you can stay overnight at  Agia Roumeli . That way you can use the opportunity to explore the beautiful towns and beaches in the area that are only accessible by boat (i.e. can’t get there by car).

How Much It Costs by Car

Getting to Samaria Gorge by car is not the cheapest option unless you’re sharing the cost amongst 4 or more friends. In our opinion, it only makes sense to drive to Samaria Gorge if you’re staying in Crete for more than 5 days and you’re renting a car anyway.

But do make sure that you’re confident driving. Greece is known for having some of the highest accident rates in Europe, and unfortunately, Crete is no exception.

If you’re unsure about whether you should rent a car, make sure you read our  Driving in Crete  guide. It explains the essential road and traffic rules you should know, as well as what the car hire requirements are.

Car rental  can cost anywhere between €40 to €80 per day depending on the type of car you’re renting, whether it’s high or low peak season, and how long you’re renting a car for. This excludes fuel costs, parking fees, one-way fees, and sometimes even car insurance, by the way!

We spent two weeks in Crete and our average cost was €41 per day (including comprehensive car insurance as well as one-way fees).

To get to Samaria Gorge by car, you’ll still need to factor in additional costs like:

• A one-way bus ticket from Sougia to Omalos (Samaria): €4.80
• Ferry ticket from Agia Roumeli to Sougia: €15
• Parking at Sougia: Free

How To Get To Samaria Gorge by Bus

Another way to get to Samaria Gorge by yourself (without a tour) is to get there by public bus. This is the cheapest way to get to the hike but takes the longest time.

Chania To Samaria Gorge by Bus

You can get to Samaria Gorge by bus from Chania, Heraklion, or Rethymno, but the best option is from Chania. This is the shortest and most direct bus route. Plus, there are 4 buses from Chania to Samaria Gorge every day.

We’d recommend taking the 5:00 AM or 6:15 AM bus. The bus ride takes around 60 to 90 minutes so you should arrive just after Samaria Gorge opens at 07:00.

You can buy your bus tickets online on the  KTEL website . Just buy a one-way bus ticket from Chania to Omalos (Samaria Gorge trailhead). You’ll get back from Samaria to Chania on a different bus route. We’ll explain how later in this guide.

We’d suggest getting to the  Chania bus station  10 minutes earlier than your departure time. That way you don’t miss the bus and ruin your day trip to Samaria Gorge. The bus will take you straight to the entrance so just relax or take a nap before the long hike ahead.

How To Get To Samaria Gorge From Heraklion by Bus

It is possible to get to Samaria Gorge from Heraklion by bus, but it will be a very long journey (4.5 hours or more).

You’ll need to take two buses. The first bus from Heraklion to Chania will take around 3 hours. Once you arrive in Chania, you’ll take another bus from there to Omalos where the Samaria Gorge hike starts.

The only problem with this is that you won’t be able to take these two buses on the same day. By the time you arrive in Chania from Heraklion, you would have missed the last bus from Chania to Samaria Gorge (Omalos).

The only way around this is to stay overnight in Chania so you can take the bus there the next day.

There are lots of hotels and accommodation options in Chania. We’d recommend comparing hotel prices and booking early to get the best deal. Here’s the map with hotels in Chania.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to stay overnight in Chania, then the best option is to take a  guided tour from Heraklion  to Samaria Gorge.

Bonus Tip:  Skip the queue and book your bus tickets online. You can buy the ticket from Heraklion to Chania with  KTEL Herlas . For the second bus to Samaria Gorge, you’ll need to buy it on the  KTEL website .

Bus From Rethymno To Samaria Gorge

You can take the bus from Rethymno to Samaria Gorge, but keep in mind that you might feel a bit pressed for time.

You’ll need to take two buses. The first bus from Rethymno to Chania will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. We’d recommend taking the 06:00 AM bus. That way you can arrive in Chania in time to catch the 07:45 AM bus from Chania to Samaria Gorge (Omalos).

You should arrive in Samaria Gorge just after 09:00 AM. If you’re not staying overnight in Agia Roumeli, make sure you budget enough time to finish the hike and catch the 17:30 ferry to get back to Rethymno.

Otherwise, you can take this  guided tour from Rethymno  to Samaria Gorge to avoid the rush and stress of finishing the hike in time.

How To Get Back From Samaria Gorge by Bus

You’ve managed to get to Samaria Gorge by bus and completed the unforgettable hike, but how do you get back? Whether you’re heading to Chania, Rethymno, or Heraklion, you’ll need to take the ferry to get back to civilization.

We’d recommend taking the 17:00 or 17:30 ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia. You can buy the tickets once you arrive at Agia Roumeli.

Otherwise, if you’re confident you’ll finish in time, you can also buy your ferry tickets online on the  Anendyk  website. The ferry tickets cost €15 and the ride from Agia Roumeli to Sougia takes only 30 minutes.

Once you arrive in Sougia, you’ll take the last bus back from Sougia to Chania at 18:15. The journey takes under 2 hours.

From Chania, you can either stay overnight or take the next bus back to Rethymno, Heraklion, Hersonissos, or whichever town you’re staying in north Crete.

How Much Is The Bus to Samaria Gorge

This is how much it costs to take the public bus to Samaria Gorge:

• From Chania: €6.90
• From Rethymno: €13.10 (€6.20 + €6.90)
• From Heraklion: €20.70 (€13.80 + €6.90)

To get back from Samaria Gorge, it will cost another €15 for the ferry and €7.10 for the bus from Sougia to Chania.

In total, you can expect to pay between €29 to €43 for a return trip to and from Samaria Gorge by bus.

Related Guide: How much will a trip to Crete island cost? Get the exact cost breakdown for flights, hotels, eating out, car rental, and more, in our How Expensive Is Crete guide.

Getting To Samaria Gorge By Hike Tour

The easiest way to get to Samaria Gorge without a car (or the stress of planning) is by hike tour. It’s a bit more expensive (€35 to €50) compared to taking the public bus or driving yourself, but there are benefits to getting there with a guided tour.

Firstly, all the logistics of getting to and back from Samaria Gorge are taken care of. All you have to do is show up on time and enjoy the hike.

Secondly, you’ll be joined by a professional guide on the hike. Not only are they there to make sure that everyone is doing okay along the trail. But they’ll make sure you maintain a good, comfortable pace to finish the hike and catch the ferry back.

And last, but not least, it’s a great way to learn about the history of Samaria Gorge, its myths and legends, as well as its unique topography, flora, and fauna.

On the hiking tour, you can choose to hike with the larger group, or go off on your own and hike at your own speed. The guide will usually follow the last hiker to make sure that the entire group completes the trail on time.

So whether you want to hike in solitude or prefer some company, joining a hiking tour is a good option.

Bonus Tip:  Most tours include pick-up and drop-off, but don’t include the entrance to Samaria Gorge (€5) or the ferry ticket (€13). Make sure you read the details before booking.

Samaria Gorge Tour

Hikers travel to Crete from all over the world just to hike Samaria Gorge. Make sure you book your guided tour in advance so you don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

From Heraklion

Take this guided hiking tour  to Samaria Gorge if you staying in Heraklion or surrounding areas.

It includes pick-up and drop-off from Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Agkisaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Amoudara, Agia Pelagia, and from centrally located points in Heraklion town.

The guides speak French, German, English, Dutch, and Polish.

Tour from Rethymno

If you’re staying in and around Rethymno, we’d recommend taking this guided  tour from Rethymno . It includes pick-up and drop-off from the towns of Panormo, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno, Atsipopoulo, Kavros, and Georgioupoli.

Their guides speak English, French, and German.

Guided Tour from Chania

Take this guided  tour from Chania  to Samaria Gorge.

It includes pick-up and drop-off from the towns Perivolia, Halepa, Akrotiri, Halidon Street Alpha Bank, Kladissos, Nea Chora, Agioi Apostoloi, Xrysi Akti, Daratso, Galatas, Kalamaki, Stalos, Agia Marina, Platanias, Gerani, Kontomari, Pyrgos, Psyionfrou, Maleme, Tavronitis, Kolymvari, Minothiana, Paraniana, Kamisiana, and Chania.

How To Get To Samaria Gorge by Ferry

The last option is to get there by ferry. This option is perfect for those who want to hike Samaria Gorge the easy way. This shortcut is great for those who can’t physically walk that far or if you’re traveling with young children.

You won’t feel the same satisfaction of experiencing the changing landscapes descending from the top of the White Mountains to Agia Roumeli Beach. But you’ll be able to see the most famous section of the hike – the Iron Gates.

This is the narrowest part of the gorge where its over 500 meters high (1,640ft) but only 4 meters (13ft) wide.

To hike Samaria Gorge the easy way, you’ll need to take the ferry. You can get there by ferry from  Sougia  or  Chora Sfakia . Simply buy your ferry tickets from the  Anendyk  website and make sure you arrive for the departure on time.

Once you arrive in Agia Roumeli, head to the  Samaria Gorge south entrance , buy your entrance ticket, and walk 1.5km to see the Iron Gates.

Hotels Near Samaria Gorge, Crete

Whether you’re getting to Samaria Gorge by car, bus, or ferry, we’d highly recommend staying at least one night at Agia Roumeli. That way you can explore the picturesque coastal villages and stunning beaches nearby that you can only get to by ferry (inaccessible by car).

Make sure you visit the gorgeous fishing village of Loutro with its postcard-perfect white houses. If you have time, we’d also recommend seeing Gavdos. It’s a small island south of Crete that’s not only known for its breathtaking beauty but also as the southernmost tip of Europe.

This part of Crete is an absolute hidden gem. If you’re looking to get away from the tourist crowds and go off the beaten track, then staying overnight is a must.

Places to Stay in Agia Roumeli

All of these hotels and vacation apartments are on the beachfront or within 100 meters of the beach.

• Agia Roumeli Hotel
• Giannis Rooms
• Zorbas Studios
• Artemis Studios

Related Guide: Looking for other places to stay in Crete? Read our  Where To Stay in Crete  guide. It shares insider tips on where to stay in Crete with kids, for a romantic couples getaway, to the best hotels for beautiful beaches and epic nightlife, with or without renting a car.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The easiest way to get to the Samaria Gorge hike without a car is with a  guided tour . These tours include pick-up and drop-off and will take care of all the logistics for you to complete the long, but magnificent hike.

You can hike Samaria Gorge by yourself (without a tour) by getting there by car or bus. As long as you budget enough time to complete the hike and get to the ferry at Agia Roumeli on time, it’s perfectly safe to do the Samaria Gorge hike by yourself.

Yes, you can but you’ll need to take the public bus and ferry to get back to your car after the hike. If you plan to visit Samaria Gorge by car, we’d recommend driving to  Sougia  and catching the bus from there. Alternatively, you can drive to  Xyloskalo  and hike a portion of the trail before turning back and heading back to the car.

Yes – absolutely! The easiest way to get to Samaria Gorge by bus is from Chania. There are 3 direct buses that go from Chania to Omalos (Samaria Gorge entrance) every day.

Samaria Gorge is open every day from 1 May until 31 October from 07:00 to 16:00. But bear in mind that if you want to hike the entire trail, you’ll have to enter before 13:00. If you arrive after that, you’ll only be allowed to hike the first 2 kilometers of the trail before turning back.

Wrapping Things Up

Samaria Gorge is hands-down THE most beautiful hike in Crete but getting to and back from the hiking trail is a challenge.

The easiest way to get there is with a guided tour. Not only will the guide accompany you throughout the hike. But they’ll also take care of all the logistics for you so you can just arrive and enjoy the hike without the stress of planning.

Joining a hiking tour is nice, but not absolutely necessary. You can also hike Samaria Gorge by yourself. As long as you plan well and make sure you arrive in time to catch the public bus and ferry, you can easily do the hike without a guide.

We hope our guide has saved you time and money planning your vacation in Crete. For more tips and inspiration for things to do on the island, check out our  Crete Travel Guides .

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Paleochora Discover

• Paleochora, 73001, Chania, Crete.

Mobile: +30 6932 717909

WhatsApp: +30 6932 717909

Email: [email protected]

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Excursion to the Samaria Gorge

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The Unique Tour of Samaria Gorge

Hiking & outdoor adventures , top tours, from: € 35.

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Departure area.

• Tavronitis/Maleme Gerani Platanias Agia Marina Stalos, Kalamaki Agioi Apostoloi Chania

Tavronitis/Maleme Meeting Point

• Cross Road Cafe Mike Hotel

Gerani Meeting Point

• Solimar Aquamarine Platanias World War II Battle of Crete Memorial

Platanias Meeting Point

• Minoa Palace Resort Mylos Tavern Porto Platanias village

Agia Marina Meeting Point

• Oscar Suites & Village Turchese Ristorante Italiano Silk Oil gas station Alexandra Beach Hotel

Stalos, Kalamaki Meeting Point

• Creta Palm Maria’ s Tavern Porto Kalamaki

Agioi Apostoloi Meeting Point

• Loca Cafe Moderno Pastry shop Silk Oil gas station

Chania Meeting Point

• Kriti Hotel Bus stop Agora Sansal Boutique Hotel Sunny Rent A car

Meeting time: 05:30

Meeting time: 05:40, meeting time: 05:45, meeting time: 05:50, meeting time: 06:00, meeting time: 06:05.

• Can’t find the Meeting Point?

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Special Requirements (allergies etc.)

Tour overview, tour highlights.

• Hike the largest gorge in Europe
• Learn about Crete’s flora & fauna
• Once in a life-time experience
• Explore the amazing nature inside the gorge
• Guaranteed safety inside the gorge by our mountain guide
• Discover the South shores of the Chania region & swim at the Lybian sea
• Ideal shoes:Hiking shoes/boots.

Description

• Hotel pick up and drop off
• English speaking mountain guide
• Air-conditioned bus transportation
• Gratuities (optional)
• Entrance of the gorge (5€)
• Boat ticket (13€)

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A Quick Guide to Paleochora, Crete

Thinking of booking a trip to Paleochora in Crete? Here’s what to expect from this laid-back beach resort on the southwest coast.

Where is it?

Paleochora (also spelt Palaiochóra ) is in the far southwest corner of Crete in the province of Chania.

What’s the vibe like? 

Paleochora is a large beach village which has been popular with windsurfers for decades, bringing a a bit of a hippie vibe with them (a bit like Mastichari on Kos). 

It’s perfect for nature lovers . The town is a gateway to some of the wildest and most beautiful parts of Crete including the White Mountains ( Lefka Ori ), the harbour villages of Sfakia which you can reach by ferry, and remote Gavdos , the most southerly island in all of Europe. It’s a great base for hiking and exploring the region by boat or car.

These days the streets are colourful and photogenic with brightly-painted taverna chairs and tables underneath mulberry trees. The main pedestrian streets burst into life in the evenings.

The vibe (and food) is traditional Greek with an alternative leaning . It has a wine bar, organic food shops, and a long-established vegetarian restaurant called The Third Eye. 

Paleochora has a large crowd of returnees who visit year after year. The average age trends older plus it attracts plenty of Greek visitors as well as daytrippers from Chania.

What’s the beach like?

Paleochora has two main beaches with different orientations.

On the western side is Pachia Ammos , a wide beach of coarse golden sand . There is flat rock under some parts of the beach and in the sea.

There are several beach cafes right by the sands with sun loungers you can rent by the day, and watersports are available too. The road runs alongside the beach with plenty of parking spots.

This west-facing beach gets great sunsets . There are a few big trees for shade and plenty of free space for those who prefer towels on the sand.

On the eastern side of Paleochora is Chalikia Beach , a much smaller strip of pebble beach . This beach has the most amazing crystal clear water and gets deep quickly so is perfect for swimming . The sun loungers here are also much cheaper and it’s close to several tavernas and cafes.

If you’re in Paleochora for a while you can also explore the beaches west of the village – Grammeno is a highlight, and there are boat trips to Kedrodasos and Elafonisi . 

There are strong winds sometimes but the good thing about Paleochora is that you can always just nip over to the other beach for shelter.

Activities and amenities

There’s no shortage of things to do in and around Paleochora. There are a couple of tour agencies by the harbour and on the main streets – they’ll give you a rundown of the available excursions as well as ferry timetables.

From Paleochora you can take a ferry to Sougia, Agia Roumeli and Gavdos. At Agia Roumeli you can change for another ferry to Loutro and Sfakia. These ferries aren’t particularly cheap (around €20 for one leg) but it’s a wonderful way to explore. I highly recommend seeing Loutro , it’s one of the most beautiful villages in Greece.

Boat trips are available along the coast in either direction to neighbouring beaches including the famous Elafonisi beach.

Excursions to the popular Samaria Gorge also run from Paleochora (although not every day) and in high season you’ll sometimes find trips to the other gorges.

You can rent your own boat (with or without a skipper), go snorkelling , or join a fishing trip .

There are a few options in the area for hiking although many will require a taxi at least one way.

• Paleochora-Anidri  is the closest circular walk
• The E4 long-distance path runs through Paleochora, it can be challenging in parts but you can walk to Sougia via the archaeological site at Lissos and then take your weary legs back on the ferry
• If you’re planning extensive walking in Crete you might want to check out Ciccerone: The High Mountains of Crete

Cooking lessons, wine-tasting, and olive oil-tasting can be organised through the Pirate’s Tavern .

Despite the alternative crowd, it can be surprisingly hard to find yoga classes on the fly. Look around for flyers, or check with your hotel.

Transport and Accessibility

From the airport:

Paleochora is a 90-minute drive from Chania International Airport. 

It’s best to arrange a transfer in advance as drivers at the airport won’t always be willing to drive so far south. Prices are around €100 and the local taxi company is Paleochora Taxi .

Public transport:

Paleochora is served by the regional KTEL Chania coaches – see the KTEL website for timetables . 

The bus route connects Chania and Paleochora, but this is pretty much the only regular route (though in the high season there are sometimes early morning buses for the gorge hikes). 

Anendyk Ferries sail from Paleochora to Sougia, Agia Roumeli and Gavdos. Change at Agia Roumeli for connections for Hora Sfakion and Loutro – see Anendyk website for timetables .

Accessibility :

Paleochora is almost entirely flat and easily walkable. There’s plenty of space for parking including by the beach, although like anywhere in Greece it will fill up quickly in July and August.

No steps are required to reach Pachia Ammos beach beyond the kerb but it is a bit of a walk to get into the sea. There are wooden boardwalks on the beach but not the sturdy kind.

Paleochora is a solid mid-range resort these days although the south coast is a bit cheaper than the north. There’s something for all price points. For a pair of sun loungers on the main beach in high season you might pay €30, whilst over on Chalikida it’s nearer €5. There are some lovely boutique hotels but also plenty of basic rooms and camping for the budget traveller.

The cost of excursions and ferry tickets can add up though.

Where to stay

4-star Libyan Princess is the most comfortable hotel in town. Located on the main road up near Halikia Beach, it has a pool and a small wellness centre.

3-star Aris Hotel is the place for yogis – it has a rooftop yoga terrace to complement its recent revamp, eco-friendly features and local breakfast.

Up in the northern end of the village, Libyan Mare has comfortable apartments and a pool set in olive groves.

Want to be right by the beach? Hotel Pal Beach is basic but popular.

Read more about Crete:

Where to Stay in Chania Near the Beach

How to Get Around Chania By Bus

10 Most Beautiful Beaches Near Chania

Where to Stay on Crete: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Crete

Image credits: All images © The Mediterranean Traveller

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