Heraklion Airport Guide (HER) ✈️: All You Need to Know Before Arriving

Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (IATA: HER, ICAO: LGIR) is Greece’s second busiest airport (after Athens International), located about 5 kilometers (3.11 miles) east of Heraklion near Nea Alikarnassos. It operates 24 hours a day, year-round, handles around 9–10 million passengers annually, and is the main gateway to central and eastern Crete. A new airport at Kasteli is set to replace it, with test flights expected to begin in 2027.

The airport plays a vital role in the island’s economy, tourism, and trade. It offers a full range of transport options — public buses, taxis, rental cars, private transfers, and hotel shuttles. Crete car hire is available on-site, with daily rates based on car type and season, ranging from about €32.6 ($37.89, £28.15) to €146.5 ($170.26, £126.50).

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. Accommodations such as Marvel Deluxe Rooms, 7Rizes Luxury Living, Pnoe Breathing Life, and Ammos Eco Residence sit close to the terminal, and shopping ranges from in-terminal duty-free shops to larger outlets like Attica Selections, Nike Factory Store, and Talos Plaza.

What is Heraklion Airport Known For?

Heraklion Airport (HER/LGIR) is Greece’s second busiest airport, handling around 9–10 million passengers per year, operating 24 hours a day, and serving as the primary hub for Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Bluebird Airways on Crete. It is officially named Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis,” and uses the IATA code HER and ICAO code LGIR. The airport sits at 35.3397° N, 25.1743° E, about 5 kilometers (3.11 miles) east of Heraklion Town near Nea Alikarnassos. It offers both domestic and international flights — especially in the summer tourist season — connecting Crete to major European cities 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 demand. It handles the highest number of travelers among Crete’s airports, although it is not the largest by land area. Its strategic location near Crete’s capital provides quick access to the island’s administrative, commercial, and cultural hub. The airport 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, the renowned Greek author and philosopher from Heraklion best known for writing Zorba the Greek. It hosts a selection of restaurants, cafés, and snack bars in both the public and post-security areas, where 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 expands significantly during peak months, supporting local households and businesses in and around Heraklion, Crete. Beyond passenger services, the airport supports air cargo operations — enabling the transport of agricultural goods, local products, and time-sensitive shipments between Crete and the mainland or international markets, which plays an important role in regional trade, particularly for food and craft industries.

As the main gateway to central and eastern Crete, Heraklion Airport connects the region to key business and tourism hubs in Europe. Its continued operation is critical to Crete’s infrastructure, and its economic impact reaches into nearly every sector of the island’s commercial life.

What are the Facilities at Heraklion Airport?

Heraklion Airport’s terminal includes duty-free shopping, a Sky Express lounge, car rental desks, ATMs, currency exchange, luggage storage, baby rooms, and free Wi-Fi — compact but sufficient for a busy summer-season airport. The main facilities are listed below.

• Duty-Free Shop: An extensive duty-free shop offers cosmetics, perfumes, alcoholic beverages, and local delicacies, letting travellers buy premium brands at tax-free prices during wait times.
• Shops and Restaurants: Retail outlets for last-minute gifts and essentials sit alongside dining spots serving local and international cuisine, from quick snacks to fuller meals.
• Heraklion Airport Lounge: A lounge (Sky Express) offers a quieter retreat from the main terminal, with comfortable seating, refreshments, and a calmer ambiance. Pre-book online where possible.
• Currency Exchange Facilities: Dedicated booths handle currency conversion for travellers needing local cash on arrival or departure.
• Hotel Reservation Service: Staff can help travellers arriving without a booking, recommending hotels to match preferences and budgets.
• ATMs: Several ATMs across the terminal serve domestic and international cards from various banking networks.
• Payphones: Available for travellers facing mobile network issues or without a working phone.
• Luggage Storage Service: A secure left-luggage service suits travellers with long layovers who want to explore outside the terminal.
• Lost and Found Office: A documented process and dedicated staff help reunite misplaced items with their owners.
• Post Office: A functional post office offers domestic and international postal services for postcards and parcels.
• Baby Rooms: Private, equipped spaces for feeding and diaper changes give travelling families a calm environment.
• Car Rental Counters: Reputable car rental agencies offer everything from compact cars for solo travellers to larger vehicles for groups.
• Rent A Bike Offices: Bike rental offers an active, eco-friendly way to explore Crete.
• Cart Services: Luggage carts at various points make it easier to move multiple bags through the terminal.

Practical Guide: Check-In, Security & What to Expect at Heraklion Airport

Arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international departure. Check-in typically opens about 2.5 hours before departure and closes strictly 40 minutes prior, and Heraklion Airport does not offer fast-track security.

During peak summer months (July–August), security queues can extend 20–45 minutes; arriving early and travelling with cabin baggage only reduces waiting time. Assisted travel is provided by SkyServ — passengers should proceed to the check-in desk on arrival.

Heraklion Airport is rated around 2.6★ on Google (28,000+ reviews) and holds a 2-star Skytrax rating. Travellers consistently describe it as functional but crowded in summer. Seating is limited after security, and the Sky Express lounge is the only premium retreat (pre-book online). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, with medical assistance, baby-care rooms, and accessible facilities for essential needs; smoking areas are located outside the terminal.

Heraklion Airport vs Chania Airport: Which Should You Choose?

Heraklion Airport (HER) offers more airlines and year-round routes, while Chania Airport (CHQ) is closer to western Crete resorts — your choice depends on which region you plan to explore.

Heraklion is the better choice if you are staying in central or eastern Crete: Heraklion, Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda are all within roughly 30–8 kilometers (49.71 miles). Chania Airport is about 2–2.5 hours from Heraklion by car but is ideal for travellers based in western Crete (Chania city, Rethymno, Paleochora). Heraklion offers more airlines, more frequent domestic routes (Athens, Thessaloniki), and more year-round service, while Chania is smaller and often less crowded. Car hire from Heraklion Airport, with access to the Northern Road Axis (VOAK), gives you flexible access to both regions within about two hours.

When is Heraklion Airport Moving to Kasteli?

Heraklion Airport is scheduled to be replaced by the new Kasteli International Airport, with test flights expected to begin in 2027 according to iahc.gr, the official project company; full commercial operations will follow shortly after. The new airport is under construction in Kasteli, about 39 kilometers (24.23 miles) southeast of Heraklion Town, and will serve as Crete’s primary international air hub.

The project is being developed through a public-private partnership and carries an estimated value of approximately €1.5 ($1.74, £1.30) billion, structured as a 35-year concession — one of the largest infrastructure investments in modern Greece. Construction began in 2020, and the facility will feature two runways, a modern terminal, and capacity for over 15 million passengers annually — more than twice the current airport’s capacity.

The relocation aims to solve long-standing issues such as congestion, outdated facilities, and limited expansion potential. The new airport is expected to offer safer operations, faster processing, and an improved travel experience, while promoting economic development, employment, and tourism in central and eastern Crete. New transport links, highways, and parking are being developed to connect Kasteli with Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, and Hersonissos. The current Nikos Kazantzakis Airport will close permanently once the new facility opens, and the land may be repurposed for urban or commercial use.

How to Get from Heraklion Airport (Transport Options)

Heraklion Airport connects to the city centre in 10–20 minutes by taxi (€15 ($17.43, £12.95)–€25 ($29.06, £21.59)), public bus (€2 ($2.32, £1.73)–€2.5 ($2.91, £2.16) on KTEL lines), or car rental (from €25 ($29.06, £21.59)/day) — all options depart directly from the arrivals area. Limited short- and long-term parking is available at the terminal; for longer city stays, see our guide to parking in Heraklion.

• Bus. Public buses operated by KTEL Heraklion run between the airport and Heraklion Town, plus routes to other parts of Crete. The stop is just outside the terminal, tickets are bought from the driver, and the fare is about €2 ($2.32, £1.73)–€2.5 ($2.91, £2.16) per person. Buses run throughout the day, more frequently in summer — suited to budget and solo travellers with light luggage.
• Taxi. Taxis wait at the official rank outside arrivals (no reservation needed, but rides can be pre-booked via apps). The ride to the centre takes 10–15 minutes toward Eleftherias Square and costs €15 ($17.43, £12.95)–€25 ($29.06, £21.59) depending on time of day and traffic; extra fees may apply for night trips or luggage. Taxi fares to resorts run higher — roughly €32 ($37.19, £27.63) to Hersonissos and €80 ($92.98, £69.08) to Elounda.
• Car Rental. Car rental desks are inside the arrivals terminal. Driving to central Heraklion takes about 15 minutes, with major highways connecting the airport to Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Chania. Daily rates range from about €30 ($34.87, £25.91)–€60 ($69.73, £51.81) depending on season, car type, and insurance — best for exploring Crete independently.
• Private Transfer. Private transfers can be booked in advance online; drivers meet guests at arrivals for a direct ride. The trip to Heraklion Town takes approximately 15 minutes (about 5 kilometers (3.11 miles)), with rates from €35 ($40.68, £30.22)–€50 ($58.11, £43.18) depending on vehicle class and group size — ideal for couples, business travellers, and those seeking convenience.
• Hotel Shuttle. Some Heraklion hotels offer airport shuttles (confirm availability and schedule in advance). Travel time is usually about 15 minutes, and costs range from free to €10 ($11.62, £8.64) per person — useful for hotel guests with early flights or short stays.

Can You Rent a Car at Heraklion Airport?

Yes — you 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 is available from both international and local companies, including small cars, large cars, SUVs, vans, and cabriolets. Travellers can pre-book online or rent on-site, subject to availability.

Driving from the airport to the city centre takes about 15 minutes, with direct access to the Northern Road Axis of Crete (VOAK) for trips to other regions. Daily prices (2025 rates) for small cars range from €25 ($29.06, £21.59)–€40 ($46.49, £34.54) depending on the month. Large cars range from about €59.6 ($69.27, £51.46)–€100.8 ($117.15, £87.04), SUVs from €83.4 ($96.93, £72.02)–€129 ($149.92, £111.39), vans from €84.2 ($97.86, £72.71)–€146.5 ($170.26, £126.50), and cabriolets from €65.2 ($75.78, £56.30)–€118.6 ($137.84, £102.41) per day. Prices are higher in summer (June–August) due to high demand and limited availability.

Crete car rental costs vary by vehicle type, rental duration, insurance coverage, and extras like GPS or child seats. A Heraklion Airport car rental is especially beneficial for families, couples, and groups planning to travel outside Heraklion into more remote areas with limited public transport.

Where to Eat and Drink near Heraklion Airport

Four highly-rated restaurants sit within 2.6 kilometers (1.62 miles) of Heraklion Airport, ranging from traditional Cretan tavernas to fresh seafood — all a 5–10 minute drive from the terminal.

• Naftilos. A Greek restaurant 1.8 kilometers (1.12 miles) from the airport, rated 4.7 (707 reviews), serving traditional Cretan dishes such as grilled lamb, stuffed vine leaves, and fresh salads, with local wine and cold beer. Free parking nearby; reservations recommended at peak hours.
• 7 Thalasses. A seafood restaurant 2.1 kilometers (1.30 miles) away, rated 4.7 (2,196 reviews), specialising in octopus, seafood pasta, and grilled fish with local wines. Modern, relaxed atmosphere with shaded outdoor seating and on-site parking — a great option for travellers who want to eat in Heraklion in a more refined setting.
• Magerio O Sofos. A traditional taverna 2.2 kilometers (1.37 miles) from the airport, rated 4.9 (479 reviews), with home-cooked meals like moussaka, meatballs, and fried zucchini paired with house wine or Greek beer. Cosy and authentic; street parking available, reservations not necessary.
• Akrotiri Fish Taverna. A casual diner 2.6 kilometers (1.62 miles) away, rated 4.4 (491 reviews), serving grilled fish, seafood soups, and calamari with ouzo and tsikoudia. Laid-back vibe with covered outdoor seating — suitable for families and travellers wanting a relaxed meal before or after a flight.

Where to Stay near Heraklion Airport

Accommodation near Heraklion Airport ranges from budget guesthouses 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) away (Marvel Deluxe Rooms, 4.6★) to boutique wellness resorts 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) out (Pnoe Breathing Life, 4.9★).

• Marvel Deluxe Rooms. A modern guesthouse 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from the airport, rated 4.6 (335 reviews), with double and triple rooms, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for short stays and late-night arrivals, with on-site parking; cafés and snack bars within walking distance.
• 7Rizes Luxury Living. A boutique apartment-style hotel 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles) away, rated 4.8 (130 reviews), with spacious suites, kitchens, smart TVs, and rainfall showers. Quiet setting and professional service suit couples, business travellers, and anyone needing easy access to both city and terminal — many travellers rate it among the best hotels to overnight in Heraklion. Free parking.
• Pnoe Breathing Life. A high-end wellness resort 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) from the airport, rated 4.9 (243 reviews), with luxury suites, private pools, spa services, gourmet dining, and sea views — appealing to honeymooners and wellness-focused travellers. Private parking and full concierge.
• Ammos Eco Residence. A sustainable villa complex 6.4 kilometers (3.98 miles) away, rated 4.9 (16 reviews), with fully equipped residences, private terraces, and a beachfront setting. Minimalist, eco-friendly design suits families or long-stay guests; on-site parking.

Where to Shop near Heraklion Airport

Hellenic Duty Free Shops inside the terminal is the most convenient option; for branded shopping, Talos Plaza and Attica Selections are reachable within about 1 kilometers (6.21 miles).

• Hellenic Duty Free Shops. Located inside Heraklion Airport, offering cosmetics, perfumes, tobacco, spirits, snacks, local delicacies, and souvenirs — ideal for last-minute gifts before departure.
• Attica Selections Heraklion. A premium shopping centre about 5.1 kilometers (3.17 miles) from the airport, with high-end clothing, accessories, fragrances, and beauty products, plus free parking and nearby cafés.
• Nike Factory Store Crete. A sportswear outlet about 8.9 kilometers (5.53 miles) from the airport, offering athletic shoes, training gear, outerwear, and discounted apparel.
• Talos Plaza. A seaside shopping mall about 1 kilometers (6.21 miles) from the airport, with clothing boutiques, bookstores, a cinema, and cafés overlooking the sea.

Why Heraklion is the Best Base for Exploring Crete

Heraklion is Crete’s largest city and the island’s best base for day trips: Knossos is about 5 kilometers (3.11 miles) away, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is in the city centre, and the VOAK highway connects the city directly to Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Chania. Its central location gives easy access to both eastern and southern Crete, making it practical 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 periods. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece, featuring thousands of artifacts documenting 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 daytime temperatures range from about 24°C in May to 33°C in July–August. 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.

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. Travellers can start with the Palace of Knossos, the centre of Minoan civilization, followed by 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 harbour, and enjoy shopping in Heraklion markets and visit 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 drive to inland villages such as Archanes for wine tasting and traditional tavernas. Other options include the Natural History Museum of Crete and the Historical Museum of Crete for educational experiences.

Airport facts verified against the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (https://www.hcaa.gr/) and the Kasteli Airport official project site (https://www.iahc.gr/).

Author: Harry Anapliotis — Owner, travel writer and web developer at Rental Center Crete. Rental Center Crete is a car rental company offering services on Crete since 1975, licensed by the Greek National Tourism Organization (Reg. N° 1039E00810009100).

Published on June 18, 2026.