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Welcome to Heraklion Airport
Heraklion International Airport (HER) is the busiest airport in Crete and one of the busiest airports in Greece, welcoming millions of visitors every year. For many travellers, it’s the gateway not only to Heraklion itself but also to some of the island’s most popular destinations, including Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Rethymno, Agia Pelagia and countless beach resorts scattered along Crete’s coastline.
Located just 5 kilometres east of Heraklion city centre, the airport is exceptionally convenient, with the capital reachable in as little as 15 minutes. However, because Crete is Greece’s largest island, many visitors continue much further, with transfer times ranging from 30 minutes to more than three hours, depending on where you’re staying.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to continue your journey. Public buses provide an affordable option for reaching Heraklion and connecting with the wider island, while taxis, private transfers and car hire offer greater convenience for those travelling to resorts or more remote parts of Crete.
Choosing the right transfer depends on your destination, your budget and how much luggage you’re carrying. Visitors staying in Heraklion can often rely on public transport, while those heading to resorts such as Malia, Elounda or Chania may find a private transfer or rental car far more convenient.
This guide compares every major Heraklion Airport transfer option, helping you choose the quickest, easiest and most cost-effective way to start your holiday in Crete.
At a Glance: Your Transfer Options
Heraklion Airport offers transfer options to suit every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for the cheapest, fastest or most flexible way to reach your destination. Road times below are typical rather than guaranteed, as summer traffic can make journeys noticeably longer.
| Destination | Typical road time | Best option for most visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Heraklion city | 10–20 min | Urban bus or taxi |
| Hersonissos | 25–35 min | Intercity bus, taxi or transfer |
| Stalis | 30–40 min | Intercity bus or transfer |
| Malia | 35–45 min | Intercity bus or transfer |
| Agios Nikolaos | 60–75 min | Intercity bus or transfer |
| Elounda | 70–90 min | Transfer or bus via Agios Nikolaos |
| Rethymno | 75–95 min | Coach connection or transfer |
| Chania | About 2–2½ hr | Coach connection or private transfer |
For a hotel in Heraklion itself, the bus is normally the value choice. For a resort farther along the coast, compare the current KTEL timetable with a pre-booked transfer before deciding.
The public bus is the most affordable option. Urban buses connect the airport with Heraklion city, while the separate KTEL Heraklion–Lassithi intercity network serves many resorts and towns farther east. Some intercity services use the airport corridor directly, so check your exact destination before automatically travelling into the centre to change.
For those wanting the quickest door-to-door journey, taxis are available outside the terminal throughout the day and night. They’re ideal for travellers heading to nearby destinations, families or anyone arriving after public transport has reduced its service.
Many visitors choose to pre-book a private airport transfer, particularly if they’re travelling to resorts some distance from the airport. Fixed pricing, meet-and-greet services and direct hotel drop-offs make private transfers one of the most convenient options, especially for larger groups.
If you’re planning to explore the island, car hire is often the best solution. Crete is a large island with spectacular mountain villages, beaches and archaeological sites that are difficult to reach using public transport alone. Renting a car gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace.
Whichever option you choose, Heraklion Airport is well organised, making it straightforward to begin your journey almost immediately after collecting your luggage.
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Compare pricesWhich Heraklion Airport Transfer is Right for You?
The best transfer from Heraklion Airport depends largely on where you’re staying, how long you’re visiting and what type of holiday you’ve planned.
If your hotel is in Heraklion city, the public bus is usually the best-value option. The journey is short, buses operate frequently throughout the day and tickets cost only a fraction of a taxi fare.
If you’re staying in popular beach resorts such as Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, Agia Pelagia or Elounda, you’ll generally find a taxi or private transfer much more convenient, especially if you’re travelling with children, large suitcases or arriving late at night.
Visitors planning to explore Knossos Palace, the Lasithi Plateau, Balos Lagoon, Elafonissi, the Samaria Gorge or the many mountain villages scattered across Crete should seriously consider hiring a car. While buses serve many towns, having your own vehicle provides far greater flexibility and saves significant travel time.
Solo travellers and backpackers often combine the airport bus with Crete’s extensive KTEL coach network, which connects many of the island’s major towns and resorts at very reasonable prices.
There’s no single transfer that’s best for everyone. The ideal choice depends on balancing cost, speed, comfort, luggage requirements and how much of Crete you plan to explore during your stay.
Getting to Know Heraklion Airport
Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) sits about 5 kilometres east of Heraklion, close enough for a quick city transfer but also well placed for the main road east towards Hersonissos, Malia and Agios Nikolaos. During the busy summer season, flights arrive from across Europe alongside regular domestic services linking the island with Athens and Thessaloniki. Current airport information is available from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority.
Although the airport can become busy during peak holiday periods, its relatively compact layout makes it easy to navigate. After passing through passport control and baggage reclaim, you’ll find car hire desks, tour operator representatives, ATM machines, currency exchange facilities, cafés, shops, toilets and tourist information within a short walking distance.
Outside the arrivals hall you’ll find clearly signposted areas for public buses, taxis, private transfer drivers and car hire shuttle buses, allowing passengers to quickly continue their journey.
A replacement airport is under construction at Kastelli, but travellers should continue using the airport shown on their booking rather than assuming the switch has already happened. The company developing the new airport says trial flights are due to begin in 2027, while the Greek government has pointed to 2028 for the start of operations. Until the changeover is confirmed, this guide relates to the existing Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER).
Despite its size, the airport’s close proximity to the city and straightforward layout mean that beginning your journey around Crete is usually quick and uncomplicated.
Bus from Heraklion Airport
The public bus is the cheapest way to travel from Heraklion Airport and is an excellent option if you’re staying in Heraklion city or connecting to another destination elsewhere on Crete.
There are two bus systems to understand. Heraklion Urban Bus runs the numbered city routes that start at or pass the airport, while KTEL Heraklion–Lassithi runs longer-distance coaches towards resorts and towns in eastern Crete. The airport is therefore not served by one single “airport bus” number.
| Bus | Useful for | Typical journey from airport |
|---|---|---|
| Line 6 | Heraklion centre and Ammoudara | About 15–20 min to central Heraklion; roughly 35–50 min to Ammoudara depending on traffic |
| Line 10 | Heraklion centre, Gazi and Kavrochori | About 15–20 min to the centre; allow roughly 40–60 min for the western end of the route |
| Other airport-originating urban services | Routes towards Foinikia, PAGNI and ELMEPA/Gournes | Varies by destination and service pattern |
| KTEL intercity coaches | Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, Sitia and other eastern destinations | Destination dependent; some services use the airport corridor directly |
For most visitors going into Heraklion city centre, the important thing is the destination display rather than memorising a single route number. Line 6 is particularly useful because it continues west to Ammoudara, while Line 10 continues towards Gazi and Kavrochori. The operator’s live itinerary page should be checked on the day because timings and individual journeys change through the year.
If you are continuing to Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, Agios Nikolaos or Sitia, also check the current KTEL Heraklion–Lassithi timetable. Some eastbound coaches use the airport corridor directly, which can save travelling into central Heraklion simply to come back past the airport.
The airport bus stops are just outside the terminal area. For journeys into the city, check the destination display before boarding rather than assuming every bus follows the same route. If you need an onward coach, Heraklion Central Bus Station A is the key interchange for many services along the north coast and into eastern Crete.
Ticketing depends on whether you are using the urban or intercity network. Buy before boarding where possible, and do not assume the same fare or ticket is valid on both systems. For long-distance journeys, use the current KTEL Heraklion–Lassithi timetable rather than relying on a saved screenshot, as seasonal schedules change during the year.
On the urban network, a ticket to Heraklion centre costs around €1.30 (£1.15 / $1.50) bought in advance or €2.30 (£2 / $2.65) if bought from the driver, current since March 2026. Intercity KTEL fares to resorts further east vary by distance, so check the live timetable for the exact price.
The buses are modern, air-conditioned and have space for luggage, although during peak holiday periods they can become busy with arriving passengers.
Taxi from Heraklion Airport
A taxi is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to leave Heraklion Airport, particularly if you’re travelling with luggage, arriving late at night or heading directly to a resort.
Official taxis wait in the dedicated rank immediately outside the arrivals terminal, and vehicles are normally available whenever flights are arriving. During the busiest weeks of the summer season there may occasionally be a short queue, but taxis generally move quickly.
The journey to Heraklion city centre usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Drivers also regularly take passengers directly to popular resorts including Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, Agia Pelagia, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Rethymno and Chania, with journey times varying according to distance.
Taxis operate using the official meter for local journeys, while longer trips may sometimes be offered at an agreed fixed fare. If travelling a significant distance across the island, it’s sensible to confirm the expected price before departing.
As a guide, a metered or fixed-price taxi from Heraklion Airport to the city centre typically costs around €15 to €25 (£13 to £22 / $17 to $29), based on current local operator pricing. Fares to resorts further along the coast, such as Hersonissos or Malia, run higher and should be confirmed with the driver before you set off.
Most taxis accept contactless payment, credit cards and debit cards, although carrying a small amount of cash in euros remains advisable. Standard taxis comfortably accommodate several suitcases, while larger vehicles may be available for bigger groups if requested.
Private Airport Transfers
If you’d prefer everything arranged before you travel, a private airport transfer offers one of the easiest ways to reach your accommodation anywhere on Crete.
After landing, your driver will normally meet you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name before escorting you directly to your waiting vehicle. This eliminates the need to queue for a taxi or navigate public transport after your flight.
Private transfers are available to virtually every destination on the island, including Heraklion, Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Rethymno, Chania, Sitia and smaller villages that may not be served by direct public transport.
One of the biggest advantages is that the price is agreed when you book, so delays caused by traffic won’t increase your fare. Most operators also monitor incoming flights and automatically adjust collection times if your aircraft arrives late.
Vehicles range from standard cars to executive saloons, people carriers and minibuses, making private transfers suitable for solo travellers, couples, families and larger groups. Child seats can usually be requested during the booking process, while generous luggage allowances are included with most services.
Compare Airport Transfer Companies
Pre-booking your airport transfer can save time and reduce stress when you arrive. Whether you need a private taxi, shared shuttle or executive transfer, comparing providers can help you find the best price and service for your journey.
We’ve selected three trusted airport transfer companies so you can compare prices, vehicle options, cancellation policies and customer reviews before you travel.
Car Hire at Heraklion Airport
For visitors planning to explore Crete, car hire offers the greatest flexibility. As the largest Greek island, many of Crete’s beaches, mountain villages, archaeological sites and scenic viewpoints are difficult to reach using public transport alone.
Where are the car hire desks? Several major rental companies have counters in the arrivals hall on the ground floor. For example, both SIXT and Avis direct arriving customers to counters inside the arrivals area. Their vehicle parking is then a short walk away, generally across the airport access road. Other suppliers use off-airport offices or shuttle collection points, so the instructions on your booking voucher matter.
Do not assume every rental company works from the same desk area. If your confirmation says shuttle, meet and greet or gives an off-airport address, follow those instructions rather than joining the queue for the in-terminal desks. If you have booked with an airport-based company, look for the rental counters after baggage reclaim and customs before leaving the arrivals area.
It is worth completing online check-in before you fly where your rental company offers it, particularly in July and August. Crete has a very large seasonal car-hire market and queues can build quickly when several flights land close together.
Heraklion Airport has an excellent selection of international and local car hire companies, with rental desks located inside or immediately outside the terminal, while some operators provide a short shuttle to nearby collection depots. During the summer season, booking in advance is highly recommended as demand regularly exceeds supply.
Based on current local rental pricing, a small economy car typically costs from around €25 a day (£22 / $29) in low season, rising to €65 a day (£57 / $75) or more in August, with a rough year-round average of around €40 a day (£35 / $46). Booking well ahead of your travel dates usually secures the lower end of that range.
Leaving the airport is straightforward, with quick access to the E75 motorway, the island’s main east-west highway. From here it’s easy to drive towards Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos and Sitia in the east, or towards Rethymno and Chania in the west.
Roads between the major towns are generally in good condition, although visitors heading into the mountains should expect narrower, winding roads and should allow extra time for their journey. Fuel stations are plentiful around the larger towns but become less frequent in more remote parts of the island.
Hiring a car gives you the freedom to visit attractions such as Knossos Palace, Spinalonga, the Lasithi Plateau, Elafonissi Beach, Balos Lagoon and countless traditional villages without being tied to bus timetables. It remains the preferred choice for visitors planning to see more than just one resort during their stay.
Choose Car Hire for Heraklion
A rental car may be the most practical option if you want to explore areas beyond central Heraklion without being tied to bus or train schedules.
Comparing both Discover Cars and EconomyBookings can help you see a broader range of prices and vehicle options before booking.
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Check transfersRide-Hailing Apps at Heraklion Airport
Unlike some major European cities, ride-hailing apps have a relatively limited presence on Crete. While Uber now operates in parts of Greece, it generally connects passengers with licensed taxis rather than private ride-share drivers, and availability in Heraklion can vary depending on demand and the time of day.
If an Uber is available, you’ll normally be collected from the designated taxi pick-up area outside the arrivals terminal. The fare is displayed in the app before confirming your booking, and payment is made electronically through your chosen payment method.
Many visitors still find that simply joining the official airport taxi rank is quicker than waiting for an app-based vehicle, particularly during the busy summer months when taxis are constantly arriving and departing.
If you’re travelling to one of Crete’s more distant resorts, a pre-booked private transfer is often a more reliable option than relying on ride-hailing services, particularly if you’re arriving late in the evening or travelling as a family with several suitcases.
Airport Hotels Near Heraklion Airport
If you’re arriving late, departing early or simply prefer to stay close to the airport before continuing your journey around Crete, there are several excellent accommodation options within a short distance of Heraklion Airport.
The closest hotels are located just a few minutes’ drive from the terminal and are ideal for travellers with early morning departures. Many offer 24-hour reception, airport transfers, breakfast from the early hours, luggage storage and private parking for guests collecting hire cars the following morning.
Staying in Heraklion city centre is another popular option. With the airport only around 15 minutes away, you’ll have a far wider choice of hotels, restaurants and attractions while remaining close enough for an easy transfer back to the terminal. This is often the better choice if you have time to explore the city before or after your flight.
If you’re collecting a hire car, spending your first night in Heraklion can also be a sensible decision, allowing you to avoid driving unfamiliar roads immediately after a long flight.
Whether you choose an airport hotel or accommodation in the city, staying nearby can make the start or end of your holiday considerably more relaxed.
Choosing the Best Transfer for Popular Destinations
The best transfer from Heraklion Airport depends largely on where you’re staying.
If your destination is Heraklion city, the public bus provides the best balance of convenience and cost, with frequent departures and a journey of only around 15 to 20 minutes.
Visitors heading to nearby resorts such as Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Hersonissos, Stalis or Malia often find that a taxi or private transfer offers the easiest door-to-door journey, especially when travelling with luggage or young children. While buses can also reach these resorts, they may require a connection in Heraklion depending on the exact destination.
For longer journeys to Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Ierapetra, Sitia, Rethymno or Chania, a hire car provides the greatest flexibility, particularly if you’re planning to explore beaches, archaeological sites and mountain villages during your stay. Private transfers are also popular for these destinations, offering fixed prices and direct hotel drop-offs without the need to drive.
If you’re planning to remain in one resort for your entire holiday, a private transfer often provides the easiest start and finish to your trip. If you intend to explore several parts of Crete, car hire is usually the most practical option and gives you the freedom to discover many of the island’s hidden highlights at your own pace.
Accessible Travel from Heraklion Airport
Heraklion Airport provides a range of facilities to assist passengers with reduced mobility, including step-free access, accessible toilets, designated parking spaces and pre-booked assistance within the terminal. If you require help boarding or leaving your aircraft, it’s recommended to notify your airline at least 48 hours before departure so assistance can be arranged.
Accessible taxis can usually be organised with advance notice, while many private transfer companies offer vehicles capable of accommodating folding wheelchairs or passengers with specific mobility requirements. Travellers needing wheelchair-accessible vehicles should book before travelling, as these are more limited than standard taxis.
Most KTEL buses serving the airport are modern, low-floor vehicles, although accessibility can vary depending on the specific service operating. If accessibility is particularly important, checking directly with KTEL Heraklion–Lassithi before travelling is advisable.
For visitors hiring a car, several rental companies can supply vehicles with automatic transmissions or other adaptations, although these should also be reserved well in advance, especially during the busy summer season.
Money-Saving Tips
Travelling from Heraklion Airport doesn’t have to be expensive if you choose the right transfer for your plans.
If you’re staying in Heraklion, the public bus is by far the most economical option and costs only a small fraction of a taxi fare.
Families or groups travelling together should compare the cost of a private transfer with taking multiple taxis, as the difference is often surprisingly small once shared between several passengers.
If you’re planning to explore Crete, booking your hire car several weeks before arrival will usually secure significantly lower prices than waiting until you land, particularly during July and August when demand is highest.
Finally, avoid exchanging large amounts of money at the airport unless necessary. ATMs are readily available, and using a bank card with low foreign transaction fees often provides a better exchange rate than airport currency exchange counters.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Heraklion Airport is close to the city, but Crete itself is much bigger than many first-time visitors expect.
- Check whether an intercity KTEL bus serves your resort directly before travelling into Heraklion to change.
- For late arrivals, compare the cost of a taxi with a pre-booked transfer rather than assuming public transport will still be convenient.
- If you are continuing by ferry, Heraklion Port is close to the airport but leave a generous buffer between a flight and a sailing.
- For western Crete, Chania Airport can be a better arrival point even when the flight itself costs a little more.
- The new Kastelli airport is not yet the airport you should assume you are using. Always follow the airport code shown on your booking.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in Who is Rupert?.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Heraklion Airport from Heraklion city centre?
Heraklion Airport is approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre. The journey usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or 15 to 20 minutes by bus, depending on traffic.
Is there a bus from Heraklion Airport to the city centre?
Yes. KTEL Heraklion–Lassithi operates frequent buses between the airport and Heraklion Bus Station A, with services typically running every 10 to 15 minutes during the day.
Can I get a taxi from Heraklion Airport?
Yes. Official taxis are available from the rank immediately outside the arrivals terminal whenever flights are operating.
Should I hire a car at Heraklion Airport?
If you plan to explore different parts of Crete, hiring a car is highly recommended. It gives you easy access to beaches, mountain villages, archaeological sites and attractions that are difficult to reach by public transport alone.
Are private airport transfers available?
Yes. Numerous companies operate private transfers from Heraklion Airport to hotels and resorts across Crete, with fixed prices and meet-and-greet services available when booked in advance.
Does Uber operate at Heraklion Airport?
Uber has a limited presence in Heraklion and, where available, generally connects passengers with licensed taxis rather than private drivers. Availability can vary depending on demand.
What is the nearest resort to Heraklion Airport?
Kokkini Hani is one of the closest beach resorts, located only a short drive east of the airport. Other nearby resorts include Gouves, Hersonissos and Stalis.
What is the best transfer from Heraklion Airport?
The answer depends on your destination. The bus is the cheapest option for Heraklion, private transfers are ideal for resort hotels, and car hire is the best choice if you’re planning to explore the island.
Which bus number goes from Heraklion Airport to the city?
Heraklion Airport is served by several urban routes rather than one dedicated airport number. Line 6 is useful for the city centre and Ammoudara, while Line 10 continues through the city towards Gazi and Kavrochori. Check the destination display and current timetable before boarding.
Where are the car hire desks at Heraklion Airport?
Several major rental companies have counters in the ground-floor arrivals hall, with their vehicles collected from nearby parking areas. Some cheaper or local suppliers operate from off-airport offices and use a shuttle or meet-and-greet system, so always follow the collection instructions on your booking voucher.
Further Reading
For the wider island, start with our Crete Travel Guide. If you are still deciding which side of the island to fly into, compare this page with our Chania Airport Transfers Guide, which covers the main gateway to western Crete.
If your journey continues by sea, our Ferry Routes from Crete Guide explains which port to use around the island. We also have dedicated guides to the Santorini to Heraklion ferry and the Athens to Crete overnight ferry.
For broader Greece planning, our Greek Ferries Guide explains island-hopping and booking, while our Aegean Airlines Guide is useful if your Crete trip includes a domestic connection through Athens.
We regularly review and update our airport transfer guides to ensure transport information, fares, operators and travel advice remain as accurate as possible. As timetables, ticket prices and transfer services can change, always check official operators before travelling.
