Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
Heraklion, GR · 5 km (3.1 mi) east of central Heraklion
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi Rank Taxi · On demand · 24/7 | 10-20 min to Heraklion city · 25-40 min to Hersonissos/Malia | $15-25 to Heraklion city · $35-50 to nearby east coast resorts |
| Hotel Shuttle Coach Bus · Tied to charter / hotel flight schedules | 40-90 min depending on number of hotel stops | Often included in package price · $0-15 equivalent per person when itemized |
| KTEL Heraklion City Bus Bus · Every 10-15 min · roughly 06:00–23:00 | 15-20 min | $2-3 |
| KTEL Intercity Bus to Malia and Hersonissos Bus · Every 30-60 min · roughly 06:00–22:30 | 45-70 min | $4-7 |
Insider notes
Arrive 2.5–3 hours before your flight during peak season to navigate lengthy check-in and security queues smoothly in July and August.
Opt for the KTEL bus at roughly €1.50 to Heraklion city for a budget-friendly transit instead of a taxi, which costs about €10–15.
Venture to small off-airport kiosks near arrivals for cheaper bottled water and snacks than inside the terminal.
Welcome
Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis, seemingly more an island bus station than a sleek international hub, offers a unique glimpse of travel to Crete. Located just 5 km east of Heraklion, this compact terminal is known for its summer chaos, drawing both complaints and strategic navigators. While it serves as a congested conduit, savvy travellers know how to exploit its manageable layout and cost-effective city connections to make it a jumping-off point to explore Crete.
At a glance
The airport manages approximately 8.1 million passengers annually and features a single terminal, T1, making navigation relatively straightforward. Aegean Airlines and Sky Express dominate the scene, but Ryanair and other carriers also provide extensive route networks. Despite the limited space and amenities, its location a mere 3.1 miles from central Heraklion is a practical convenience.
Terminals & layout
The solitary terminal, T1, captures all aspects of the airport experience. It's compact, facilitating quick navigation but often overwhelmed by high passenger volumes during peak charter waves in July and August. With facilities spread across its single hall, there's no airside transfer option, requiring separate security checks for connections. Frequent flyers advocate for online check-in and direct heading to the right-hand side of the departures hall to bypass central queues.
Getting to and from the city
Heraklion Airport provides multiple transport options, making city access straightforward. The KTEL Heraklion City Bus offers an economical choice at $2-3 with a 15-20 minute journey into the city center, boarding from Ikarou Street just outside the terminal. Taxis, though costlier at $15-25, are expedient for those prioritizing speed. For travelers heading to seaside resorts, a taxi or prebooked private transfer might be preferred, costing $35-50 to nearby areas like Hersonissos or Malia.
Traveller essentials
Access to free Wi-Fi is available but often unreliable, especially when charter flights stack up—prepare accordingly by downloading entertainment and maps in advance. Paid luggage lockers offer a respite for those with long waits; they cost around $3-6 for 6-hour rentals or up to $11.50 for a day, accessible in the car park. Power outlets are sparse, so a fully charged power bank is advised.
Dining & shopping highlights
Dining at Heraklion Airport might not impress, with offerings like Everest and Flocafe Espresso Room dispersed throughout. The general consensus, however, favors eating in the city and limiting airport purchases to coffee or basic snacks. Hellenic Duty Free Shops and a small Gift Shop within T1 provide staples, while the Travel Essentials Shop covers last-minute needs.
Lounges
Heraklion International Airport hosts two lounges, the Heraklion International Airport Lounge and a VIP Lounge, both within Terminal T1. They often fall short during peak summer months, cited as overcrowded and under-air-conditioned. Access through Priority Pass or airline status is a convenient but sometimes underestimated perk, offering marginally more comfort amidst the terminal’s bustle.
Insider tips
- Time: Arrive 2.5–3 hours before your flight during peak season to navigate lengthy check-in and security queues smoothly in July and August.
- Money: Opt for the KTEL bus at roughly €1.50 to Heraklion city for a budget-friendly transit instead of a taxi, which costs about €10–15.
- Local: Venture to small off-airport kiosks near arrivals for cheaper bottled water and snacks than inside the terminal.
- Quiet: Seek window seats near international gates for a semblance of quiet and decent views of aircraft and the sea.
- Insider: Utilize the paid luggage lockers for a small fee to explore Heraklion more freely, saving space from crowded terminal areas.
- Avoid: Skip buying lounge access on-the-spot unless already included with your status; it's often crowded and brings little value.
- Quiet: Bring a refillable water bottle, and avoid the A/C vents where temperatures can get unexpectedly cold with limited seating options available.
- Money: Gauge the need to eat light in the terminal as food is generally rated as mediocre and best approached as last resort nourishment.