Heraklion International Airport (HER), officially named Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, is located 4.4 kilometers (2.73 miles) east of Heraklion Town. It is the busiest airport in Crete and a key entry point for international and domestic travelers. The airport plays a vital role in the island’s economy, tourism, and trade, serving as the main gateway to central and eastern Crete.
A new facility, Kastelli International Airport, is currently under construction and scheduled to replace the current airport by 2028. With a projected cost of €1500 ($1777.65, £1298.40) billion, the new airport will have higher capacity and modern infrastructure. Heraklion Airport offers a range of transportation options, including public buses, taxis, rental cars, private transfers, and hotel shuttles. Crete car hire services are available on-site, with daily rates based on car type and season, ranging from €32.6 ($38.63, £28.22) to €146.5 ($173.62, £126.81).
Nearby food options include Naftilos, 7 Thalasses, Magerio O Sofos, and Akrotiri Fish Taverna, all within 2.6 kilometers (1.62 miles) of the airport. Travelers can find accommodations such as Marvel Deluxe Rooms, 7Rizes Luxury Living, Pnoe Breathing Life, and Ammos Eco Residence, offering a variety of styles and amenities near the terminal. Shopping options range from duty-free shops inside the airport to larger outlets like Attica Selections, Nike Factory Store, and Talos Plaza. These locations offer everything from souvenirs to clothing and sportswear.
Heraklion is the best destination when visiting Crete, offering direct access to archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and museums. The best time to visit is from May to October, and popular things to do in Heraklion include exploring Knossos, walking along the harbor, and dining in traditional tavernas.
Heraklion Airport offers dining, shopping, transportation, and basic passenger services. Facilities include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafés, rental car desks, ATMs, currency exchange counters, a lost and found office, and baggage services. Public buses, taxis, and private transfers operate from the terminal, with limited parking available.
Passenger check-in areas, boarding gates, and baggage claim zones occupy a compact terminal layout, often experiencing crowding during peak season. Seating is minimal, and fast Wi-Fi access may vary. No dedicated business lounges or sleep areas exist. Medical assistance, baby care rooms, and accessible facilities support essential needs. Smoking areas are located outside the terminal.
What is Heraklion Airport Known For?
Heraklion Airport is the main international gateway to Crete and one of the busiest airports in Greece. It is officially named Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis, or simply Heraklion Airport, or by its IATA code HER. The ICAO code for the airport is LGIR. The airport is located at 35.3397° N latitude and 25.1743° E longitude, just 4.4 kilometers (2.73 miles) east of Heraklion Town. It serves millions of passengers annually and offers both domestic and international flights, especially during the summer tourist season. The airport connects Crete to major cities across Europe, including London, Paris, Berlin, and Rome, as well as regular routes to Athens and Thessaloniki.
Heraklion Airport began operations in 1939 and has undergone several expansions to accommodate growing passenger demand. It handles the highest number of travelers among Crete’s airports, although it is not the largest by land area. What makes Heraklion Airport unique is its strategic location near Crete’s capital city, providing quick access to the island’s administrative, commercial, and cultural hub. The airport also operates under challenging conditions due to space limitations and seasonal congestion, making it a key focus of Crete’s future airport development plans.
The airport is named after Nikos Kazantzakis, a renowned Greek author and philosopher from Heraklion, best known for writing Zorba the Greek. His work had a major impact on 20th-century Greek literature and thought. Heraklion Airport hosts a selection of restaurants, cafés, and snack bars, located in both the public and post-security areas. Passengers can find coffee, sandwiches, hot meals, and quick snacks before boarding or after arrival.
How Important is Heraklion Airport for Crete?
The importance of Heraklion Airport for Crete lies in its central role in supporting the island’s economy, tourism industry, and trade connections. It handles the majority of the island’s annual passenger traffic as the busiest airport in Crete, especially during the summer months when tourists arrive from across Europe. The steady flow of visitors drives hotel bookings, car rentals, guided tours, and local spending, making the airport a direct contributor to Crete’s tourism revenue.
Heraklion Airport also strengthens the local economy by generating thousands of jobs in aviation, security, logistics, maintenance, and retail services. Seasonal employment opportunities expand significantly during peak months, supporting local households and businesses in and around Heraklion Crete. The airport supports air cargo operations in addition to passenger services, enabling the transport of agricultural goods, local products, and time-sensitive shipments between Crete and the Greek mainland or international markets. This function plays a smaller but important role in regional trade and exports, particularly for food and craft industries.
Heraklion Airport serves as the main gateway to central and eastern Crete, connecting the region to key business and tourism hubs in Europe. Its continued operation is critical to Crete’s infrastructure, and its economic impact reaches well beyond the airport grounds into nearly every sector of the island’s commercial life.
What are the Facilities Found at the Heraklion Airport?
The Facilities found at Heraklion Airport are listed below.
- Duty-Free Shop: Heraklion Airport has an extensive duty-free shop that is popular among local and international travellers. The duty-free shop offers a wide selection of items, ranging from cosmetics and perfumes to alcoholic beverages and local delicacies. The allure of tax-free shopping allows travellers to purchase premium brands at more affordable prices, making it an attractive shopping point during wait times.
- Shops And Restaurants: Heraklion Airport is a mini shopping and culinary hub. Numerous retail outlets allow travellers to grab last-minute gifts or essentials, while a variety of dining spots present local and international cuisines. Passengers find diverse options to satiate their appetites by going for a quick snack or a more elaborate meal.
- Heraklion Airport Lounge: Heraklion Airport Lounge is available for travellers who prioritise comfort and luxury. The lounge is tailored for relaxation and acts as a peaceful retreat from the general terminal’s activity. The lounge provides high-quality relaxation, from plush seating and a variety of refreshments to reading materials and a serene ambiance.
- Currency Exchange Facilities: Heraklion Airport recognises that travelling requires frequent currency exchanges. The airport has dedicated currency exchange booths for travellers’ easy money conversion to the local currency or vice versa. The facility guarantees competitive exchange rates that ensure passengers get value for their money.
- Hotel Reservation Service: Heraklion Airport offers a hotel reservation service for its guests. The airport’s service offers a lifeline for travellers arriving without a prior booking or needing sudden accommodation changes. Knowledgeable staff guides passengers and recommends hotels that align with individual preferences and budgets.
- ATMs: Heraklion Airport hosts several ATMs throughout its premises for seamless financial transactions. The ATMs belong to various banking networks, serving various domestic and international bank cards. The location of the ATMs ensures easy access, minimising any financial inconveniences for travellers.
- Payphones: Payphones are available at the airport. The payphones cater to travellers who encounter mobile network challenges or visitors without a working cell phone. They offer a reliable means of communication during emergencies.
- Luggage Storage Service: Heraklion Airport provides a secure luggage storage service. The facility caters to travellers who have long layovers and are venturing outside the airport. The service is great for visitors who wish to explore the terminal with ease. The service keeps belongings safe and allows travellers to move freely.
- Lost And Found Office: Items get misplaced during the hustle and bustle of travel. Heraklion Airport’s Lost and Found office works to reunite the items with their rightful owners. The systematic documentation process and dedicated staff ensure that travellers have a good chance of retrieving misplaced belongings.
- Post Office: Heraklion Airport hosts a fully functional post office to cater to travellers’ mailing needs. The facility offers domestic and international postal services, allowing for the sending of postcards to loved ones or dispatching important parcels. The post office ensures prompt and secure deliveries with its efficient staff and operations,
- Baby Rooms: Heraklion Airport’s baby rooms allow travelling families to find comfort. The rooms are equipped with essential amenities and provide a private and convenient space for feeding and diaper changes. The design ensures that parents and infants experience a calm and comfortable environment.
- Car Rental Counters: Heraklion Airport facilitates on-the-go travel plans with its car rental counters. Travellers have a selection of vehicles from reputable car rental agencies. The airport guarantees that everyone finds their preferred mode of transportation, from compact cars for solo travellers to larger vehicles for groups.
- Rent A Bike Offices: Rent A Bike offices are available at Heraklion Airport, presenting an appealing option for adventurous or environment-conscious travellers. Renting a bike offers a unique way to explore Crete. It merges sightseeing with physical activity and with a range of bicycles on offer, travellers have access to the perfect two-wheeled companion for their journey.
- Cart Services: Cart services are available at Heraklion Airport, making it easy for travellers to roam the vicinity even with multiple bags. The carts are available at various points and allow passengers to transport their belongings from check-in counters to departure gates or any other location within the terminal. The convenience of the carts ensures a smoother airport experience for travellers.
Parking in Heraklion city requires attention to local regulations and awareness of peak hours. Some areas have restricted zones and it’s essential to be aware of signage that indicates parking regulations. Following the regulations ensures that vehicles remain in designated areas and reduces the risk of fines or towing. Visitors are encouraged to use established parking facilities, where rates are reasonable and security is heightened. Parking in Heraklion guarantees security and accessibility for all. Heraklion achieves the utmost safety for its inhabitants and visitors through its efforts in infrastructure, security measures and local regulations.
When is Heraklion Airport moving to Kastelli?
Heraklion Airport is expected to move to Kastelli International Airport by 2028, according to the official project timeline set by the Greek government. The new airport is currently under construction in Kastelli, located 39 kilometers (24.23 miles) southeast of Heraklion Town. It will replace the existing Nikos Kazantzakis Airport and serve as Crete’s primary international air hub. The project is being developed through a public-private partnership and carries an estimated cost of €1500 ($1777.65, £1298.40) million, making it one of Greece’s largest infrastructure investments. The construction began in 2020, and the facility will feature two runways, a modern terminal, and the capacity to handle over 15 million passengers annually, which is more than twice the current capacity at Heraklion Airport.
The relocation aims to solve long-standing issues such as congestion, outdated facilities, and the limited expansion potential of the current airport. The new airport is expected to offer safer operations, faster processing times, and an improved overall travel experience. It will also promote economic development, generate employment, and support tourism in central and eastern Crete. New transport links, highways, and parking infrastructure are being developed to connect Kastelli Airport with Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, and Hersonissos. Nikos Kazantzakis Airport will close permanently once the new facility opens, and the land may be repurposed for urban redevelopment or commercial use.
What are the Transportation Options at the Heraklion Airport?
Find below a list of transportation options at the Heraklion Airport:
- Bus. Public buses operated by KTEL Heraklion provide regular service between Heraklion Airport and Heraklion Town, as well as routes to other parts of Crete. The bus stop is located just outside the terminal, and tickets are purchased directly from the driver. Travel time to the city center is 1.1 kilometers (0.68 miles), depending on traffic. The average fare is €2 ($2.37, £1.73)–€2.5 ($2.96, £2.16) per person. Buses run throughout the day with more frequent service in summer. This option is suited for budget travelers and solo passengers with light luggage.
- Taxi. Taxis are available at the official rank outside the arrivals area. No reservation is needed, but rides can be pre-booked through taxi services or apps. The ride to the city center takes 10 to 15 minutes using the main road toward Eleftherias Square. The cost ranges from €15 ($17.78, £12.98)–€25 ($29.63, £21.64), depending on the time of day and traffic. Extra fees may apply for night trips or luggage. Taxis are recommended for families, groups, or late arrivals.
- Car Rental. Car rental desks are located inside the arrivals terminal. Visitors can rent vehicles from local or international providers with a valid license and booking. Driving to central Heraklion takes 15 minutes, while major highways connect the airport to Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Chania. Daily rental prices range from €30 ($35.55, £25.97)–€60 ($71.11, £51.94) depending on the season, car type, and insurance package. Car rental is best for exploring Crete independently or visiting rural and coastal areas.
- Private Transfer. Private transfer services can be booked in advance online. Drivers meet guests at the arrivals area and provide direct rides to hotels or private residences. The trip to Heraklion Town takes 0.25 kilometers (0.16 miles), and rates start at €35 ($41.48, £30.30)–€50 ($59.26, £43.28). Costs vary by vehicle class and group size. Private transfers are ideal for couples, business travelers, and those seeking convenience without delay.
- Hotel Shuttle. Some hotels in Heraklion offer shuttle service to and from the airport. Travelers must confirm availability and schedule in advance. Travel time is usually 15 minutes, following the same route as taxis and transfers. Shuttle costs vary from free to €10 ($11.85, £8.66) per person, depending on the hotel. This service is useful for hotel guests with early flights or short stays.
Can you rent a car at Heraklion Airport?
Yes, tourists can rent a car at Heraklion Airport through Crete car rental providers (Rental Center Crete, Justrentals, Hertz, Avis and Europcar) located inside the arrivals terminal. A wide selection of vehicles is available from both international and local companies, including small cars, large cars, SUVs, vans, and cabriolets. Travelers can pre-book a car online or rent on-site, subject to availability.
Driving from Heraklion Airport to the city center takes 15 minutes, with direct access to the Northern Road Axis of Crete (VOAK) for trips to other regions. Daily prices based on 2025 rates for small cars range from €25 ($29.63, £21.64) to €40 ($47.40, £34.62) depending on the month. Large cars range from €59.6 ($70.63, £51.59)–€100.8 ($119.46, £87.25), while SUVs are priced between €83.4 ($98.84, £72.19)–€129 ($152.88, £111.66) per day. Vans cost from €84.2 ($99.79, £72.88)–€146.5 ($173.62, £126.81) and cabriolets range from €65.2 ($77.27, £56.44)–€118.6 ($140.55, £102.66). Prices are higher in the summer months (June to August) due to high demand and limited availability.
Crete car rental costs vary by vehicle type, rental duration, insurance coverage, and any extras like GPS or child seats. A Heraklion Airport car rental is especially beneficial for families, couples, and groups planning to travel outside Heraklion and into more remote areas with limited public transport.
Where to eat and drink near Heraklion Airport
Find below a list of places to eat and drink near Heraklion Airport:
- Naftilos. Naftilos is a Greek restaurant located 1.8 kilometers (1.12 miles) from Heraklion Airport. It holds a Google rating of 4.7 based on 707 reviews and serves traditional Cretan dishes such as grilled lamb, stuffed vine leaves, and fresh salads. Guests can enjoy a meal in a casual indoor or outdoor setting, with local wine and cold beer available. Free parking is nearby, and reservations are recommended during peak hours.
- 7 Thalasses. 7 Thalasses is a seafood restaurant located 2.1 kilometers (1.30 miles) from the airport, rated 4.7 out of 2,196 reviews. It specializes in octopus, seafood pasta, grilled fish, and an excellent list of local wines and spirits. The atmosphere is modern and relaxed, with shaded outdoor seating and convenient on-site parking. It’s a great option for travelers who want to eat in Heraklion in a more refined setting.
- Magerio O Sofos. Magerio O Sofos is a traditional Greek taverna located 2.2 kilometers (1.37 miles) from the airport, with a rating of 4.9 based on 479 reviews. The menu features home-cooked meals like moussaka, meatballs, and fried zucchini, paired with house wine or Greek beer. The taverna offers a cozy and authentic dining experience, ideal for solo travelers or small groups. Street parking is available, and reservations are not necessary.
- Akrotiri Fish Taverna. Akrotiri Fish Taverna is a casual diner located 2.6 kilometers (1.62 miles) from the airport, with a 4.4 rating from 491 reviews. The kitchen serves grilled fish, seafood soups, and calamari, with ouzo and tsikoudia available. Guests enjoy the laid-back vibe, covered outdoor seating, and proximity to the airport. It is suitable for families and travelers seeking a relaxed meal before or after their flight.
Where to stay near Heraklion Airport
Find below a list of places to stay near Heraklion Airport:
- Marvel Deluxe Rooms. Marvel Deluxe Rooms is a modern guesthouse located 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from Heraklion Airport. It has a Google rating of 4.6 based on 335 reviews and offers comfortable double and triple rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Guests love the clean design, friendly service, and quick access to the airport. The property is ideal for short stays and late-night arrivals, with private parking available on-site. No restaurant is available, but cafés and snack bars are within walking distance.
- 7Rizes Luxury Living. 7Rizes Luxury Living is a boutique apartment-style hotel located 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles) from the airport, rated 4.8 based on 130 reviews. Units include spacious suites with kitchens, smart TVs, rainfall showers, and modern décor. Many travelers consider it one of the hotels to overnight in Heraklion for its quiet setting, professional service, and convenient location. It suits couples, business travelers, or anyone needing easy access to both the city and the terminal. Free parking is available, and nearby dining options are reachable by car.
- Pnoe Breathing Life. Pnoe Breathing Life is a high-end wellness resort located 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) from Heraklion Airport, with a rating of 4.9 based on 243 reviews. It offers luxury suites with private pools, spa services, gourmet dining, and seaside views. The resort is designed for total relaxation, appealing to honeymooners, couples, and wellness-focused travelers. Guests highlight the peaceful location, attentive staff, and exceptional amenities. Private parking and full concierge services are available.
- Ammos Eco Residence. Ammos Eco Residence is a sustainable villa complex located 6.4 kilometers (3.98 miles) from the airport, with a 4.9 rating from 16 reviews. It features fully equipped residences with kitchens, private terraces, and access to a sustainable beachfront setting. Guests appreciate the minimalist design, eco-friendly practices, and proximity to beaches and local tavernas. The property is best for families or long-stay guests looking to relax outside the urban center. Parking is available on-site.
Where to shop near Heraklion airport
Find below a list of places to shop near Heraklion Airport:
- Hellenic Duty Free Shops. Hellenic Duty Free Shops is a duty-free store located directly inside Heraklion Airport, making it the most convenient option for travelers. It offers a wide range of cosmetics, perfumes, tobacco, spirits, snacks, local delicacies, and souvenirs. The shop operates during airport hours and is ideal for picking up last-minute gifts or travel essentials before departure. Nearby amenities include restrooms, cafés, and ATMs within the terminal.
- Attica Selections Heraklion. Attica Selections is a premium shopping center located 5.1 kilometers (3.17 miles) from Heraklion Airport. It features a curated selection of high-end clothing, accessories, fragrances, and beauty products. The mall caters to travelers looking for upscale shopping near the airport, with free parking and nearby cafés for breaks between purchases. It is ideal for visitors who prefer brand-name shopping in a clean and organized space.
- Nike Factory Store Crete. Nike Factory Store is a sportswear outlet located 8.9 kilometers (5.53 miles) from the airport. It offers a wide selection of athletic shoes, training gear, outerwear, and discounted apparel. The store is popular with active travelers and those seeking branded sports gear at reduced prices. Free parking is available, and several fast-food chains are located nearby for convenience.
- Talos Plaza. Talos Plaza is a seaside shopping mall located 1 kilometers (6.21 miles) from Heraklion Airport. It features a mix of clothing boutiques, bookstores, a cinema, and multiple cafés overlooking the sea. The location is ideal for travelers combining shopping and leisure, especially before heading to or from the airport. It reflects a more casual side of shopping in Heraklion markets, with modern amenities and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Why is Heraklion the Best Destination When Visiting Crete?
Heraklion is the best destination when visiting Crete because it is the largest city on the island and serves as the main focal point for travelers arriving by air or sea. Its central location allows easy access to both eastern and southern Crete, making it a practical base for short or extended stays. The city is surrounded by important archaeological sites, including the Palace of Knossos, which offers insight into the ancient Minoan civilization.
Heraklion is also rich in historical landmarks, with well-preserved Venetian walls, medieval fortresses, and religious buildings from various time periods. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece, featuring thousands of artifacts that document Crete’s ancient past. These attractions make Heraklion ideal for visitors interested in history, culture, and accessible urban experiences.
The best time to visit Heraklion is from May to October, when temperatures range from 24°C (75.2 °F) to 3°C (86 °F). These months provide dry weather, long daylight hours, and excellent conditions for sightseeing and coastal excursions. July and August are the busiest travel months, while May, June, September, and early October offer fewer crowds and more comfortable conditions for exploring the city.
What are the things to do in Heraklion?
Some of the best things to do in Heraklion involve exploring archaeological sites, visiting cultural landmarks, and enjoying local food and coastal scenery. Travelers can start with the Palace of Knossos, the center of Minoan civilization, followed by a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which displays artifacts dating back thousands of years. Inside the city, visitors can walk along the Venetian walls, see the Koules Fortress at the harbor, and explore local markets and historic churches.
A stroll through the Old Town reveals narrow alleys filled with small shops, bakeries, and cafés serving Cretan cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit nearby beaches like Amnisos or take a drive to inland villages such as Archanes for wine tasting and traditional tavernas. Other options include visiting the Natural History Museum of Crete and the Historical Museum of Crete for educational experiences. The things to do in Heraklion combines accessibility, cultural depth, and modern convenience, making it one of the most rewarding places to explore on the island.
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