Nikos Kazantzakis Airport in Heraklion is Crete's principal airport, the largest Greek island, located approximately 5 km from Heraklion city centre.
It is the gateway to Knossos Palace, the site of the ancient Minoan civilisation, and to the island's beaches and gorges.
How to get to Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to HER
Parking near Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
The official parking (HCAA) is located opposite the terminal.
It is video-monitored; 2-2.50 euro the first hour, with more affordable daily rates (10-12 euro/day for extended stays).
How to get to Heraklion from HER
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Airport transfers you can book in advance
Shuttles and private transfers you can book online, picked from the best rated by travelers.
Car rental at Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
Major international car rental companies have desks in the arrivals area, essential for exploring the island.
You'll need a driver's license, passport, and credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
Hotels near Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
Near the airport
The Asterion Luxury Studios Airport is about 5 minutes by car from the terminal, on Leoforos Irodotou heading towards the city; the historic centre remains 3-4 km away.
Best for: Very early morning departures or short layovers, when you want to stay just minutes from the terminal without entering the city.
- Just minutes from check-in, handy for the earliest morning flights
- A quieter residential area than the centre, with the Archaeological Museum still just 3 km away
- No restaurants or shops within walking distance: in the evening you stay at the property or use a car
- For the harbour and the historic centre you still need a taxi or a rental car
Historic centre and Venetian harbour
5 km from the airport, 10-15 minutes by taxi; the city bus connects the terminal and the centre in 15-20 minutes.
Best for: Travellers who want the Venetian harbour, the Archaeological Museum and the trip to Knossos within walking distance or a short taxi ride.
- Archaeological Museum, Koules fortress and Venetian harbour reachable on foot
- Knossos (5 km) by taxi or local bus in about 15-20 minutes
- The streets of the centre are busy and noisy on summer evenings
- Scarce parking for those arriving with a rental car
Recommended hotels
- Aquila Atlantis Hotel 5-star hotel on Ygias street, on the historic harbour, with a panoramic pool overlooking the Koules fortress; about 4 km from the airport. View availability
- Athinaikon Hotel On Ethnikis Antistaseos street, a few steps from the harbour and the Venetian Walls; among the most central locations in the old town. View availability
- Atrion Hotel 60 rooms on Chronaki street, a few minutes' walk from the Historical Museum and the seafront; a mid-range hotel in the heart of the city. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is appropriately sized for heavy seasonal tourist traffic, among Greece's busier island airports.
A 2-3 hour advance arrival window is recommended (more during peak season) for international flights.
Map of Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. What is the Palace of Knossos?
The main archaeological site of the ancient Minoan civilization, just a few kilometers from Heraklion, among Greece's most visited archaeological attractions.
Q. Is it worth renting a car in Crete?
Yes, definitely: the island is large and the main attractions are spread over a wide area not always well served by public transport.
Q. Is it true that Heraklion airport will be replaced by a new one?
Yes, the new Kastelli airport has been under construction for years, designed to replace the current city airport, which is now close to its capacity limit during the summer months: the opening has been repeatedly postponed, so it's always worth checking the latest updates before planning your trip.
Q. What is Cretan raki?
A traditional grape-pomace spirit, an integral part of Cretan hospitality, often offered for free at the end of a meal in local taverns.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
