Heraklion Travel Basics: What You Need to Know
Heraklion is the main gateway to central Crete. Most travelers arrive either by plane (HER airport) or by ferry (Heraklion port), then continue by bus, taxi, or rental car. The best option depends on where you start (Athens, another island, or another part of Crete), and on the season.
Option 1: Fly to Heraklion
Flying is the fastest way explains the route when you connect through Athens or arrive on a direct seasonal flight. In summer, many European cities have direct flights to Heraklion. Outside peak season, the most common route is via Athens with a short domestic flight.
- Best for: limited time, late check-ins, families, short breaks.
- Watch for: summer demand (July–August) and limited winter options.
If your next step is the city or a hotel, plan airport-to-city transport in advance, especially for late arrivals.
Option 2: Take a ferry to Heraklion
Ferries connect Heraklion with Athens (Piraeus) and, depending on season, with other islands. Overnight ferries are popular because they can replace a hotel night and arrive early in the morning, which is convenient for check-in planning.
- Best for: travelers who prefer a slower pace, those with vehicles, island-hopping routes.
- Watch for: windy days and schedule changes, especially for faster services.
Option 3: Bus to Heraklion from other parts of Crete
If you are already on Crete, intercity buses are one of the most practical options. They are affordable, frequent on the north coast corridor, and usually simpler than driving if you do not want to handle parking in the city.
- Best for: travelers without a car, day-to-day simplicity, budget planning.
- Watch for: evening service reductions outside high season.
Option 4: Drive to Heraklion
Driving gives flexibility if you plan to explore multiple areas or carry luggage easily. Routes along the north coast are straightforward, but city driving and parking can be stressful during busy hours.
- Best for: multi-stop itineraries, remote beaches, families with lots of luggage.
- Watch for: parking strategy and one-way streets in central areas.
Quick choice guide
- From Athens: flight for speed; overnight ferry for comfort and cost control.
- From another island: check direct ferries first; use Athens as a backup route.
- From Chania or Rethymno: bus for simplicity; car for flexibility.
Practical arrival tips
- In July–August, book flights and ferry tickets early, especially weekends.
- If you arrive late, confirm how you will reach your accommodation before you land.
- If you rely on ferry connections, keep buffer time in your plan for wind-related delays.
