Heraklion is the capital of Crete and sits on the island’s north coast. The city draws visitors for its history, archaeological sites and culture, so parking in Heraklion is in high demand for both residents and tourists. You can reach the city through Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis”, which serves domestic and international flights, and through ferry links from other Greek islands and mainland ports.
Where is Heraklion?
Heraklion sits on the northern shore of Crete, in the middle of the island between Rethymno to the west and Agios Nikolaos to the east. The city is the capital and largest city of the Prefecture of Heraklion, with mountains to the south and the Cretan Sea to the north.
Rethymno lies about 79 kilometers (49.09 miles) to the west and Agios Nikolaos about 63 kilometers (39.15 miles) to the east. Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” sits immediately east of the city centre and is the main entry point to the island. Chania International Airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” lies about 145 kilometers (90.10 miles) to the west and serves as an alternative gateway.
How to Get to Heraklion?
You can reach Heraklion city centre by taxi, bus or rental car. From Heraklion International Airport, a taxi reaches the city centre in about 15-20 minutes. Buses leave from just outside the arrivals area and reach the city in about 20-30 minutes, which makes them the low-cost choice. Renting a car at the airport gives you the freedom to explore Heraklion and the rest of Crete at your own pace. Travellers arriving at Chania airport to the west face a longer transfer of about 2-2.5 hours by taxi, bus or rental car.
How Far is Chania to Heraklion?
Chania is about 14 kilometers (86.99 miles) from Heraklion, and the two cities are Crete’s most populous. You can drive between them in roughly 2 to 2.5 hours along National Road E75, which gives you the flexibility to explore the landscape on the way. Public buses run all day and take between 2.5 and 3 hours. Taxis offer door-to-door service in about 1.5 to 2 hours. Ferry services also connect the two cities but are limited and less frequent, so check the schedule in advance.
Do Heraklion and Chania have the same parking options?
No, Heraklion and Chania do not have the same parking options, though both cities enforce parking rules. Heraklion offers residents’ garages, blue zones, restricted zones and paid parking garages, and the number of free spaces changes by time of day and location. Chania is similar: you park in paid areas with meters or ticket machines, its blue zones are time-limited and need a parking disc, and its own dedicated spaces are limited, especially in the pedestrianised old town. Check the local signs in both cities to stay compliant and find a suitable spot.
What are the Rules for Parking in Heraklion?
Heraklion uses marked parking zones, and obeying the signs keeps you clear of fines or towing. The main zone types are listed below.
- Paid Parking Zones: You may park in these zones after paying the posted fee. Signs show the cost, time limits and accepted payment methods.
- Blue Zones: Blue markers on the ground and matching signs identify these zones. Display a parking disc showing your arrival time, and you may park for a few hours.
- Restricted Zones: Parking is prohibited in pedestrian-only areas, historic districts and streets marked with no-parking signs. Follow the signs to avoid penalties or towing.
- Residential Parking: Spaces in residential zones are reserved for residents with permits. Watch the signs, because visitors face limits or no parking in these areas.
- Parking Garages: Nearby garages offer covered short-term and long-term parking, usually charged hourly or daily, with some monthly memberships.
Where to Park in Heraklion?
You have three practical choices in Heraklion: free supermarket car parks, paid blue and metered zones, and 24/7 garages. Look for parking lots, parking garages and clearly marked spaces near the shopping centre, sights and attractions for the safest and most convenient option. Paid spaces take payment through meters, ticket machines or attendants.
Paid parking zones suit short stays. Meters and ticket machines are marked with signage, so pay the correct charge and keep within the time limit to avoid a fine. Blue zones allow limited-time parking when you display a parking disc with your arrival time.
Do not park in restricted areas or block traffic, because parking illegally in Heraklion results in a ticket and penalties. Park in an authorised spot, pay the fee and keep within the time limit for a hassle-free experience.
How to Find Parking Spaces in Heraklion?
The steps below help you find a parking space in Heraklion.
- Plan and research parking near your destination. Planning ahead helps you identify nearby facilities and decide before you drive.
- Head for designated parking areas such as parking lots, garages and marked spaces, which are the most reliable and convenient options.
- Read the parking signs and street markings. Look for regulations, time limits and restrictions so you park legally.
- Use a parking app or website for real-time availability, pricing and, in some cases, advance reservations.
- Check paid zones for meters or ticket machines and carry the right change or payment method for the fee.
- Look for blue markers and signs to spot blue zones. Display a parking disc showing your arrival time to keep within the limit.
- Avoid restricted zones, which are marked with signage; parking there results in fines or towing.
- Consider public transport such as buses or taxis if finding a space proves difficult.
The map below shows the parking lots of Heraklion.
Are the Parking Spaces in Heraklion Free?
No, parking spaces in Heraklion are not always free. The city runs paid zones to manage demand and traffic, and you pay at meters or ticket machines, with higher rates in busy or popular areas. Paid lots and garages, run by private companies or the municipality, charge by location, service and length of stay, so check the posted fees first. Residential spaces are reserved for locals with active permits. Blue zones carry no direct charge, but you must still display a parking disc with your arrival time to keep the turnover fair.
Is there an App to Find Parking Spaces in Heraklion?
Yes, parking apps help you find spaces in Heraklion. ParkMe, Parkopedia and EasyPark are three popular options, available for Android and iOS. The apps show maps of lots, garages and on-street spaces, and many include fees, opening hours and restrictions. Their main benefit is real-time availability, which is most useful during peak hours, and some let you reserve a spot in advance for an event or appointment.
Do Rental Cars Provide Designated Parking Maps?
No, rental cars do not provide designated parking maps. Rental companies focus on the vehicle and the rental agreement, and while they may suggest avoiding banned areas or point you to public lots, they rarely supply detailed parking maps. For accurate, up-to-date parking information, rely on local parking apps, municipal websites or tourist information centres. Check your parking options before you rent so you avoid violations during your trip.
What is iPark App?
The iPark App is a mobile app that saves where you parked and guides you back to your car. It records the vehicle’s location automatically when you park, so you do not need to enter or remember the details. To use it, open the app and tap “Take Me To My Car”, and it gives step-by-step directions back to your vehicle. iPark is useful in crowded lots, large cities or unfamiliar areas, and it works on both Android and iOS.
How to Use iPark App to Find Parking Spots in Heraklion?
The steps below show how to use the iPark App in Heraklion.
- Download and install the iPark App from your device’s app store, and check it is compatible with your operating system.
- Open the app after installation.
- Allow the app to access your location, which it needs for accurate tracking.
- Use the filters to search by parking type, availability, distance or price.
- Zoom the map or use the search bar to explore areas of Heraklion; the app shows spots matching your filters.
- Tap a parking marker to see fees, opening hours, capacity and any restrictions.
- Tap “Directions” for turn-by-turn guidance to the chosen spot.
- Park in the marked space once you arrive.
- Tap “Take Me To My Car” when you return, and the app guides you back by GPS.
What are Popular Bars in Heraklion that have Good Parking Spaces?
The popular Heraklion bars below have good parking nearby.
- Xalavro Open Bar: an open-air bar with a laid-back atmosphere, paid parking nearby and public spaces within walking distance.
- Dish Bar Party Restaurant: known for its lively music and food, and close to public lots such as Central Parking Heraklion.
- The Bitters Bar: a craft-cocktail bar next to the Central Parking Heraklion lot, which has plenty of spaces.
- Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar: a cosy food, coffee and wine bar with street parking in the surrounding neighbourhood.
- The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food: a popular coffee spot near “Koroneou 16 Parking” and the Central Parking Heraklion area.
What are Known Hotels in Heraklion that have Parking Spaces?
The well-known Heraklion hotels below offer parking for guests.
- Galaxy Hotel Iraklio: a city-centre hotel that offers easy guest parking.
- Capsis Astoria Heraklion Hotel: central, with convenient access to major attractions and co-operative parking for guests.
- Aquila Atlantis Hotel: close to the city centre, with guest parking and modern rooms.
- Olive Green Hotel: a central, contemporary hotel with guest parking.
- Lato Boutique Hotel: overlooks the historic harbour and provides guest parking.
- GDM Megaron Hotel: set in a historic building near the centre, with several parking options for guests.
Where are the Free Parking Spots in Heraklion?
The table below shows the location, contact number and opening hours of free parking spots in Heraklion. These free lots belong to supermarkets and public buildings, so they close in the evening and on Sundays and are not for overnight parking — use a 24/7 lot instead.
| Location | Address | Contact Number | Opening hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Center Parking | Giannikou, 71201, Heraklion | +302813409000 | Mon-Fri 07:30-22:30 Sat 07:30-15:30 |
| AB Vasilopoulos parking | Ikarou 26, 71306, Heraklion | +302810300010 | Mon-Fri 08:00-21:00 Sat 08:00-20:00 |
| Praktiker | Karterou 22, 71601, Heraklion | +302811100650 | Mon-Fri 08:30-21:00 Sat 08:00-20:00 |
| Chalkiadakis MAX | Mausolou & Irodotou, 71601, Heraklion | +302810227013 | Mon-Fri 08:00-21:00 Sat 08:00-20:30 |
| Sklavenitis | Mixail Eleutheriadi, 71601, Heraklion | +302810341641 | Mon-Fri 08:00-21:00 Sat 08:00-20:00 |
Where are the Paid 24/7 Parking Spots in Heraklion?
The table below shows the location, address, contact number and price of paid 24/7 parking spots in Heraklion. These lots stay open around the clock, so they suit overnight and long-term parking.
| Location | Address | Contact Number | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panasanou Parking Panasanou | 11-13, 71201, Heraklion | +302810281000 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Skordilidon Car Park | Skordilidon, 71202, Heraklion | +302813409000 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Iraklio Center Parking | St. Giamalaki 50, 71202, Heraklion | +302810282731 | €4 ($4.61, £3.42)/ 2 h (*) |
| Parking Athina | Monis Kardiotissis & Talo, 71201, Heraklion | +306945912223 | €4 ($4.61, £3.42)/ day |
| Limani Herakliou 2 | Limani Herakliou, 71306, Heraklion | +302810338115 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Parking Handax | Piniou 7, Chanioporta, 71303, Heraklion | +302810371231 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h (*) |
| Plastira Center Robotic Parking | Leof Nikolaou Plastira 47, 71201, Heraklion | +302810330484 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Thiseos Parking | Thiseos 18, 71201, Heraklion | +302810333330 | €5.1 ($5.88, £4.36)/ 2 h (*) |
| Porto Parking | Mitsotaki 5 71202 Heraklion | N/A | €4 ($4.61, £3.42)/ 2 h |
| City Center Parking | Arkoleontos 1 & Almurou, 71202, Heraklion | +302810286733 | €4.7 ($5.42, £4.01)/ 2 h |
| Limani Herakliou | Limani Herakliou, 71202, Heraklion | +302810338115 | Mon-Sat €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/day |
| Alfa Parking | Ikarou 18, 71306, Heraklion | +302810289347 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Stathmos Kladi | Anopoleos 3 & Averof, 71201, Heraklion | +302810229200 | €4.5 ($5.19, £3.84)/ 2 h (*) |
| Pl. Analipseos | Pl. Analipseos 71306 Heraklion | N/A | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Limani Herakliou 2 | Limani Herakliou, 71306, Heraklion | +302810338115 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h |
| Eparking | Leof.Ikarou 97, 71601, Heraklion | +302130390850 | €5 ($5.77, £4.27)/ 2 h (*) |
What are Other Parking Spots in Heraklion?
The table below shows the location, address, contact number, price and opening hours of other parking spots in Heraklion.
| Location | Address | Contact Number | Price | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Municipal Parking Lot | Par. 2i Pediados, Viglas, 71201, Heraklion | +302813409000 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h | Mon-Fri 07:00-23:00 Sat 07:00-15:00 |
| Martinengo | Leof. Plastira, 71201, Heraklion | +302813409000 | €3 ($3.46, £2.56)/ 2 h | Mon-Fri 7:00-23:00 Sat 07:00-15:00 |
| Parking Michelidaki | Mixelidaki, 7120,2 Heraklion | N/A | N/A | Mon-Sun 08:00-22:00 |
| Talos | Sofokli Venizelou, 71303, Heraklion | +302810255555 | €2 ($2.31, £1.71)/ 2 h | Mon-Sun 8:00-00:00 |
| Talos Plaza Parking | Sofokli Venizelou, Minos & Pelasgon 71303 Heraklion | +302810255555 | €2 ($2.31, £1.71)/ 2 h | Mon-Fri, Sun 10:00-02:00 Sat 10:00-03:00 |
| Theotokopoulou 14 | Theotokopoulou 14, 71202, Heraklion | N/A | €4 ($4.61, £3.42)/ 2 h | Mon-Sun 08:00-21:00 |
| Pili Agiou Georgiou | Pili Agiou Georgiou, Ikarou 71306, Heraklion | +302813409000 | €4 ($4.61, £3.42)/ 2 h | Mon-Fri 07:00-23:00 Sat 07:00-15:00 |
| Fasoulakis Ioannis Parking | Monis Kardiotissis 26 & Ioustinianou 71201, Heraklion | +302810280773 | N/A | Mon-Fri 8:00-21:30 Sat 9:00-15:00 |
| Parking Lasithiou | Lasithiou, 71201, Heraklion | N/A | N/A | Mon-Sat 08:30-14:30 |
How Much is the Average Parking Fee in an Hour for Paid Parking Spots in Heraklion?
The average parking price in Heraklion is roughly €3 ($3.46, £2.56) per hour, and rates rise slightly in high-demand areas such as popular attractions, shopping districts and busy commercial zones. Some lots charge a flat fee for a set time while others charge by the hour, and a few offer discounts for half-day or full-day stays. Pay at the meter, pay station or by digital payment (cash, card or mobile app), and keep the ticket visible in the vehicle to avoid a fine. Check the local signage, since some lots cap the maximum daily charge for longer stays.
What is the Opening Time for Parking Spots in Heraklion?
Parking lots in Heraklion normally open around 7-8 a.m., which suits commuters, shoppers and people working in the centre and keeps spaces available through the busy daytime. In addition, several 24/7 lots stay open around the clock, which gives residents, tourists and night-time visitors flexibility outside office hours. Checking both fixed-hours lots and 24/7 spaces helps you find parking that fits your schedule, early morning or late night.
Is It Hard to Find Parking Spots in Heraklion?
Yes, finding a parking spot in Heraklion is hard in certain areas and at peak times. The city has many residents, tourists and commuters, so demand for spaces is high. Spaces near the centre and major sights fill quickly, especially in peak tourist season, and the narrow streets add to the challenge. Plan ahead, arrive early, and use a parking app to locate free spaces faster; take public transport or a taxi when parking is scarce, and follow the rules to avoid fines or towing.
Does the Heraklion Restaurant have Parking Spots?
Yes, some Heraklion restaurants provide parking for customers, either on-site or through arrangements with nearby lots. Restaurant parking lets you park next to the venue and skip the hunt for a space nearby. Availability varies by location and size: restaurants in busy central or tourist areas have limited parking, while those in quieter areas have more. Arrive early or use a nearby lot when parking is limited at peak times.
Is it Safe to Park in Heraklion?
Yes, it is safe to park in Heraklion when you take normal precautions. The city has dedicated lots and street parking, and attendants or local authorities patrol many areas, which deters crime. Lock the vehicle and close the windows, keep valuables out of sight, and park in well-lit areas or near cameras for added security. Keep documents such as registration and insurance in a secure place, and follow all parking signs to avoid fines.
Is it worth staying in Heraklion, given its parking options?
Yes, Heraklion is worth staying in despite its parking pressure. As the largest city on Crete, it offers landmarks such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Venetian Fortress, plus markets, cafes and a varied food scene. You have public lots, street parking and private facilities across the city, and many Heraklion hotels reserve parking for their guests.
What are the places to rent a car in Heraklion?
You can rent a car in Heraklion at three Rental Center Crete pick-up locations: the city, the airport and the port. Choose the point closest to where you arrive.
- Car hire in Heraklion city collects your car in the centre, near the market, the Archaeological Museum and Lions Square.
- Heraklion Airport car rental picks up your car on arrival at Heraklion International Airport (HER).
- Car hire at Heraklion Port suits arrivals by ferry at the Heraklion cruise and ferry port.
