Posted by Connections, Stops & Tips (2026)
Want to explore Plakias and the south coast of Crete without a rental car? It’s possible – if you plan realistically. Here you’ll find all reliable bus connections, the most important stops, ticket tips, and practical itineraries for excursions.
🔎 Quick Summary (Important Information)
The only consistently reliable bus route is Rethymno ↔ Plakias (daily; frequency varies depending on the season).
Direct beach buses (Plakias ↔ Damnoni/Ammoudaki/Souda) generally don’t run regularly. For these routes, you’ll need to use walking, taxis, scooters – or occasional hotel shuttles during peak season.
📍 Bus Stops & Orientation in Plakias
Plakias is small. The main bus stop is located in the town center on the promenade. All buses to and from Rethymno stop here. Timetables are usually posted directly at the bus stop.
Tickets: Purchase from the driver (cash) or at the ticket office/kiosk (if open). Card payments are also accepted at the central bus station in Rethymno.
Luggage: Suitcases and strollers are usually transported without any problems.
Punctuality: Usually within 10 minutes; delays may occur on winding roads or mountain passes.
See also our article about accommodation in and around Plakias.
🚌 Main route: Rethymno ↔ Plakias
This is your key connection for everything else (city visits, island connections, airports via the north coast). Buses run daily; often more frequently during peak season, less frequently during off-peak season.
Travel time: approximately 70–90 minutes (via the Kourtaliotiko Gorge).
Route: sometimes via Mirthios/Mariou above Plakias.
Tickets: Inexpensive regional fare; one-way tickets typically cost a few euros.
Connections in Rethymno: Long-distance buses to Chania, Heraklion (including airports via connecting services), and resorts on the north coast.
Planning tip: For day trips to Rethymno, leave in the morning and return in the afternoon/early evening. During peak season, choose the first departure to avoid crowds.
🏖️ Beaches around Plakias: What you can and can’t get to by bus
Around Plakias, you’ll find stunning beaches within walking distance. However, there are usually no regular bus services to the bays.
Convenient options without a car:
On foot: Souda (approx. 2 km, 25–35 min.), Damnoni (approx. 3 km, 35–45 min.), Ammoudaki/Klisidi (another 10–15 min. from Damnoni).
Taxi: For short distances, usually €7–15 each way (approximate price, depending on season/provider).
Scooter/bicycle: The most flexible solution for beach hopping (beware of wind and inclines).
Hotel/shuttles: During peak season, some accommodations offer their own transfers to the beaches – inquire at reception.
Important: Plan your return trip for late afternoon – taxis are in higher demand then, and it gets warmer/windier on foot.
🌴 Preveli without a car: realistic options
There’s usually no direct bus from Plakias to Preveli. Here’s how to get there:
Boat (seasonal): During the summer season, excursion boats depart from Plakias or Damnoni to Preveli Beach. This is the most relaxed option.
Taxi/Scooter: From Plakias, head towards Preveli via Lefkogia; park at the monastery parking lot, then walk down to the beach (15–25 min., steep).
🎫 Tickets, season & useful details
Seasonal schedule: May–Oct. more frequent service; Nov.–Apr. significantly reduced service.
Tickets: Purchase from the driver (cash). In Rethymno, purchase tickets at the central bus station (ZOB) and card payment is accepted here.
Luggage: Suitcases go in the overhead compartment; please don’t block anything on the bus.
Seating: During peak season, arrive at the bus stop early (10+ minutes beforehand).
Climate/Wind: Meltemi winds may not disrupt bus departures, but they can affect beaches – plan alternatives (e.g., sheltered bays).
🧭 Route ideas using only buses (without a rental car)
1) Day trip to Rethymno
Take the first bus up in the morning, explore the old town and fortress, and return in the late afternoon.
2) Relaxed stay in Preveli
Take a boat from Plakias/Damnoni in the morning and return in the afternoon. Alternative: Take a bus via Rethymno (only worthwhile if you’re planning to visit the town anyway).
3) Relaxed beach day
Walk to Souda or Damnoni, and take a taxi back in the evening. Bring water shoes and a snorkel for Ammoudaki/Klisidi.
❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct bus to the airport?
No. You first travel from Plakias to Rethymno and then change there to long-distance buses towards Chania or Heraklion/Airport.
… Can I reserve seats?
On regional lines, reservations are not possible. First come, first served. For long-distance lines, consider using an online or ticket office ticket with a fixed departure time.
Do buses go to Damnoni/Souda/Ammoudaki?
Generally not (no regular service). Rely on walking, taxis, scooters, or seasonal hotel shuttles.
How often does the bus run between Rethymno and Plakias?
Daily, frequency varies depending on the season (more frequent in high season, reduced in winter). Always check departure times on the posted schedule or online.
🏁 Conclusion: Plan realistically – then you can manage without a car.
The main Rethymno ↔ Plakias bus line provides good connections; beach hopping is easily done on foot, by taxi, or by scooter. For Preveli, the boat is the easiest option. If you check departure times in advance and allow extra time, you can get around Plakias easily and affordably – all without a rental car.