The Ultimate Guide to Navigating Crete Airport
Crete, the largest island in Greece, welcomes millions of visitors every year — and most of them arrive through its two main airports: Heraklion International Airport (HER) and Chania International Airport (CHQ). Whether you’re landing for a beach vacation, a road trip across mountain villages, or a culinary adventure, your journey starts here.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Crete’s airports, including transportation, shopping, facilities, and insider tips to start your trip smoothly.
🛬 1. Which Crete Airport Are You Landing In?
Crete has two international airports:
- Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) – Located on the north coast, 4 km from Heraklion city center. This is the busiest airport, especially in summer.
- Chania International Airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” (CHQ) – Located on the western side, 14 km from Chania. A smaller airport, ideal for exploring the west of Crete.
If you’re staying near Elounda, Hersonissos, or Agios Nikolaos — Heraklion is your hub. Heading to Balos, Elafonissi, or Chania Old Town? Chania is better located.
🚕 2. Transportation: How to Get to Your Hotel or Resort
🚌 Public Buses (KTEL)
- Heraklion and Chania airports are both served by local buses that connect to city centers.
- Timetables vary, especially on weekends, and some buses may not match late-night arrivals.
- Fare: approx. €2–3 to city centers.
🚖 Taxis
- Taxis are available just outside arrivals.
- Flat rates apply for major routes, but always ask or confirm the price before you ride.
- Example: Heraklion Airport to city center = ~€15.
🚗 Car Rental
- Both airports offer major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Sixt — plus trusted local agencies with better deals.
- Tip: Reserve online in advance during high season (June–September). Availability is limited last-minute.
🚐 Private Transfers
- For a smooth arrival, especially with kids or luggage, many travelers opt for pre-booked transfers through their hotels or apps like Welcome Pickups.
🛍️ 3. Airport Shops & Food: What’s Worth Your Euros?
🛒 Duty-Free
- Both airports have Hellenic Duty Free shops offering Greek wines, olive oil, local beauty products, and international brands.
- Pro tip: Prices aren’t always cheaper than in local markets — but it’s convenient for last-minute gifts.
🍴 Food & Drink
- Expect Greek fast food, sandwiches, coffee, and snacks.
- Heraklion offers more options, but if you’re looking for a gourmet meal… wait till you’re in town.
🧳 4. Facilities & Traveler Tips
- Wi-Fi: Free, but can be slow during peak hours.
- Toilets: Clean but limited — lines form fast.
- Luggage storage: Not available inside the airport. Plan accordingly.
- ATMs & Currency Exchange: Available, but with fees. Better rates in city ATMs or by using travel cards.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access available — request in advance if needed.
⏰ 5. Airport Tips to Make Your Life Easier
- Arrive early: Especially in Heraklion, where queues can be long in summer. Get there 2–3 hours before your flight.
- Download your boarding pass in advance — not all check-in counters move quickly.
- Pack water and snacks after security. Options can be limited at the gates.
- Prepare for heat: The terminals aren’t always air-conditioned to perfection — especially at peak hours.
📦 Bonus: Last-Minute Cretan Souvenir Ideas from the Airport
If you forgot to buy a gift:
- A jar of Cretan thyme honey
- Tsikoudia (raki) – the island’s traditional spirit
- Natural olive oil soaps
- Greek mythology-themed magnets (hey, someone always wants one)
🧭 Final Word: Small Airports, Big Adventures
Crete’s airports may not be the biggest or fanciest, but they’re functional — and the real magic begins the moment you step outside. Whether you’re heading to pink-sand beaches or whitewashed mountain villages, the adventure starts here.
Have your passport ready, your camera charged, and your Greek “Kalimera!” polished — Crete is waiting.
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