Transport in Heraklion is the main hub for getting around the city. If you are taking an intercity bus, the station question is simpler than it first looks.
Taking a bus from Heraklion? In most cases, you’ll leave from Heraklion Central Bus Station, near the port. Open 9 Ikarou Avenue in Google Maps.
That’s the station for Chania, Rethymno, Hersonissos, Malia and most of the other places visitors travel to from Heraklion.
There is another KTEL station, Chanioporta, but you’ll only need it for a handful of inland destinations. If you’re not sure which one is yours, find your destination below.
Which station do you need?
| Going to | Station | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Chania / Rethymno | Central Bus Station | 9 Ikarou Avenue |
| Hersonissos / Malia | Central Bus Station | 9 Ikarou Avenue |
| Agios Nikolaos / Ierapetra / Sitia | Central Bus Station* | 9 Ikarou Avenue |
| Moires / Matala / Agia Galini | Central Bus Station | 9 Ikarou Avenue |
| Anogeia | Chanioporta | 3 Machis Kritis |
| Krousonas / Ano Asites / Rodia | Chanioporta | 3 Machis Kritis |
*If you’re heading east, check your particular service before going into the city. Some services may allow you to board at Heraklion Airport.
Bus routes and departure arrangements do change, so it’s worth checking your service before you set off.
Heraklion Central Bus Station
This is the main KTEL station in Heraklion and the one most travellers will use.
You may see it called Central Station or Bus Station A. You may also see the port mentioned in directions. Don’t let the different names send you looking for another terminal — 9 Ikarou Avenue is the address you want.
If you’re planning more than one bus journey around Crete, KTEL Buses from Heraklion gives you the bigger picture.
What about Chanioporta?
Chanioporta is at 3 Machis Kritis. You’ll need this station for destinations such as Anogeia, Krousonas, Ano Asites and Rodia.
Older guides may call it Station B or Bus Station B.
One useful warning: if you’re going to Moires, Matala or Agia Galini, don’t follow old advice that sends you to Station B. Those services now use the Central Bus Station.
If you’re coming from Heraklion Airport
Going to Chania or Rethymno? Head to the Central Bus Station.
Going east towards Agios Nikolaos or elsewhere in Lasithi? Check your service first. Some services may allow you to board at the airport, saving you an unnecessary trip into Heraklion.
If you do need the Central Bus Station, you can get there from the airport by city bus or taxi. Bus Transfers from Heraklion Airport explains that connection in more detail.
And if the difference between Heraklion’s city buses and KTEL buses is still confusing, How to Use Buses in Heraklion will sort that out.
Buying your ticket
You can book KTEL tickets online or buy them at the station ticket counter. If you’re hoping to buy a ticket on the bus, check first rather than counting on it.
Before you leave, check your station, departure time and any service notice for your bus. That’s especially worth doing in summer and around seasonal timetable changes.
Spending some time in Heraklion before or after your bus? Here’s a ready-made first day.
