VENUE INFORMATION

Rethymno is a vibrant and historic town, gracefully nestled on the picturesque island of Crete in Greece. You will have the chance to explore the town's vibrant markets, enjoy its renowned local cuisine, and immerse yourselves in the warmth of Cretan hospitality, creating unforgettable memories beyond the confines of the academic venues. The school will take place at two distinguished venues, the House of Culture and the Institute of Plasma Physics and Laser.

The House of Culture, situated in the heart of Rethymno, offers an inspiring setting for the intellectual exchange and collaborative learning that will define the summer school. This iconic venue reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region and provides a welcoming atmosphere for participants to engage lectures, poster session, and discussions. With its blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities, the House of Culture creates a conducive environment for both academic pursuits and social interactions.

For a deeper dive into specific topics and conducting workshop activities, the Institute of Plasma Physics and Lasers (IPPL) stands as a beacon of scientific exploration. Located 5 kilometers south of Rethymno, this cutting-edge facility is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and a lecture hall, providing a unique opportunity for participants to delve into the latest advancements in their respective fields. There is schedule a bus arriving 8:45 from Kipos bus stop to IPPL.

 The synergy between the House of Culture and the Institute of Plasma Physics and Lasers ensures a diverse and comprehensive intensive school experience, combining cultural immersion with academic excellence in the enchanting surroundings of Rethymno, Crete.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

How to get to Venue

Get to Crete:

You can reach Crete by plane or boat to the nearby to Chania or Heraklion.

By Plane:

Participants can reach Rethymno by air travel to Chania (Daskalogiannis Airport – CHQ) or Heraklion (N. Kazantzakis Airport – HER). There are regular daily flights between Athens (or Thessaloniki) to/from these airports by domestic and international airlines but there are also additionally many direct international flights to/from both airports at that time due to the tourist season.  Upon arrival at Heraklion or Chania airport, travelers can reach Rethymno town following the options below.

By Boat:

Ferryboat connection between Athens (Piraeus) and Crete is available to Heraklion (by MINOAN Lines – ANEK Lines – Blue Star Ferries) or to Chania, Souda Bay (by ANEK Lines - Blue Star Ferries).   Upon arrival at Heraklion or Chania port, travelers can reach Rethymno town following the options below.

Get to Rethymno:

From airport/port of Chania or Heraklion you can reach Retymhno by bus, taxi, or car rental.

By Taxi

Taxi is the most convenient way for travelling. The rates are more or less fixed for all taxi companies:

• Heraklion airport to Rehtymno: ~90€ (~60-70 minutes travel)
• Chania airport to Rehtymno: ~90€ (~60-70 minutes travel)
• Heraklion airport to Heraklion city: 20€ (~10 minutes travel)
• Chania airport to Chania city: 29€ (~20 minutes travel)

You should also consider to arrange taxi sharing with other participants arriving the same time. 

By Bus

On arrival at Heraklion or Chania Airport participants can take a town bus or taxi to reach the Heraklion or Chania intercity bus station (KTEL) respectively.
At Chania Airport there are also buses that goes direct to Rethymno city.

On arrival at Heraklion port you are near to the intercity bus station (KTEL) to take the bus to Rethymno city.
On boat arrival to Souda port you can take the city-bus to the city center and then walk to the intercity bus station of Chania.
At Souda port there are also some buses directly traveling to/from Rethymno city (the route Rethymno-Chania airport).

From each KTEL bus station, intersity buses leave for Rethymnon every hour, starting form early morning until the night hours. Due to high session there will even more dense routes. More details at the webpages:
Heraklion Bus Station: https://www.ktelherlas.gr/en/ 
Chania Bus Station: https://www.e-ktel.com/en/services/dromologia. 

By Car Rental

Car rental is a convenient way to travel in Crete. There are many car hire companies with stations at the airports and ports as well as at the cities that offer favorable car deals.

Visa Issues

All visitors from non EU countries must have passports or equivalent travel documents valid for at least 6 months. Please check with your local Greek Consulate or Embassy for details regarding visa and entry requirements. The school organizers is possible to issue a VISA invitation letter provided you have completed your registration. Any visa invitation letter issued is meant only to help visitors raise funds or to obtain a visa and is not a commitment on the part of the organizers to provide any financial support. Organisers may NOT contact Embassies in support of an individual attempting to gain entry to attend the school.
Visas for Foreigners travelling to Greece