Taxis are still quite cheap in Greece. Count a cost
of about € 0.9 per km out of town, less
in town. Make sure that the meter is set or fix the price beforehand.
If you take a taxi at major taxi stands, you will often see a price table listing
the costs of a drive to the main destinations.
There is a small surcharge from airport and port terminals, as well
as on some holidays (Christmas, Easter).
You can also stop a taxi anywhere or order one by phone (small surcharge).
Phone numbers vary so check locally.
It is not unusual for a taxi to stop even if it already has a passenger. If
you are heading in the same direction they will take you. Generally this does
not mean a saving for the passenger but two fares for the driver. Don't begrudge
them this small extra profit, with the low cost of taxi rides taxi drivers
don't earn that much.
Tipping is optional and not taken for granted. Most taxi drivers
will speak at least a little bit of English.
Be careful when specifying your destination: many places in Crete
have similar or similar sounding names and misunderstandings can
occur quite easily, especially when this is compounded by poor pronunciation
of Greek names. I for example live in a place called Kalathas, about
9 km east of Chania. Not to be confused with Galatas, about 6 km
west of Chania! If in doubt, show your destination on a map.
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