Heraklion Airport

Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis" (HER) is the main air gateway to Crete and the second busiest airport in all of Greece. Named after the famous Greek writer, it serves as the starting point for exploring this legendary island, welcoming millions of tourists from around the world. Particularly lively during the summer season, the airport connects Crete with dozens of European cities and serves as a key transport hub for resorts such as Hersonissos, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos.

Despite its compact size, "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport offers travellers all necessary services. The two-storey terminal building houses information desks, currency exchange points, bank branches, as well as duty-free shops where you can purchase souvenirs and local delicacies. For a comfortable wait before your flight, there are cafes and lounges, as well as a CIP Lounge with enhanced amenities. You can rent a car directly at the airport, which is one of the most convenient ways to continue your journey along the scenic roads of Crete.

If you need to contact representatives of Heraklion Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis" (HER), please use the following contact information. We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data, as phone numbers and email addresses may change.

• Official Website: www.her.gr — here you will find the latest information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: +30 2810 397800 — for general enquiries regarding airport operations.
• Address: Heraklion Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis", Nea Alikarnassos, 71601 Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the contact form on the official website or the address her.info@fraport-greece.com.
• Social Media: The airport is present on social networks. Look for links to official pages in the relevant section on the website www.her.gr.
• Lost & Found: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative or the ground handling company serving them. Major handling services at Heraklion Airport:
  • Goldair Handling: +30 2810 397339
  • Swissport: +30 2810 397449
  • Skyserv: +30 2810 229555
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general support enquiries, please call the main information desk number. To resolve issues related to tickets, flight check-in, or special assistance, please contact your airline directly.

Getting to Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis" (HER) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just 5 kilometres to the east. Travellers have access to several convenient transport options suitable for any budget and travel style.

Public Transport. The most economical method is the city bus. KTEL routes (specifically route No. 1) depart regularly from central stops in Heraklion, including Liberty Square. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. The ticket price is around 2 Euros, making this an extremely attractive option for budget-conscious tourists. Buses run frequently, from early morning until late evening.

Taxi and Transfers. For maximum comfort and speed, you can use taxi services. A trip from the city centre to the airport will take 10-15 minutes and cost approximately 15-25 Euros. This is an excellent choice for those travelling with heavy luggage or who prefer not to depend on public transport schedules. You can also pre-book a private transfer — this guarantees a fixed price and a meet-and-greet service by the driver at a location convenient for you, which is particularly useful for families and large groups.

Car Rental and Parking. If you rented a car to travel around Crete, you can easily return it right before your departure. Most major rental agencies have offices within the airport territory. The road from the city centre is well-marked with signs reading "Airport / Αεροδρόμιο". For those arriving in a private vehicle, the airport provides zones for short-term and long-term parking. This is a paid service, and the cost depends on the parking duration. During the peak tourist season (July-August), traffic in the city can be heavy, so we recommend leaving with ample time to spare.

Airport Heraklion "Nikos Kazantzakis" (HER) features one passenger terminal, which handles absolutely all flights — both domestic within Greece and international, including charters. All infrastructure is concentrated in a single building, which simplifies navigation but can lead to a high density of passengers during peak hours and the tourist season.

The terminal layout is intuitive and follows a standard two-level arrangement. The Ground Floor is entirely dedicated to the arrivals area. Here, passengers undergo passport control (for flights from non-Schengen countries), collect luggage, pass through customs inspection, and exit into the general hall, where taxi stands, car rental offices, and tour operator representatives are located.

The First Floor is the departures area. Passengers enter here directly from the main entrance. Check-in counters are located in the left and right parts of the hall, while the entrance to pre-flight security screening and passport control is in the centre. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings — everything is within walking distance.

The main feature of the airport is its high congestion during the summer period. This directly affects the time required to complete all procedures. It is recommended to allow at least 2.5-3 hours for check-in and security screening before an international flight. Despite its modest size, the airside zone features Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls, and several cafes, which, however, can also be crowded.

For comfortable navigation, we advise finding your flight on the central board immediately upon arrival at the airport and proceeding to the relevant check-in counters. After dropping off luggage, do not delay and proceed to the security checkpoints. Getting lost in Heraklion Airport is practically impossible, but passing through all stages in a timely manner will help avoid unnecessary stress before your flight.

The history of Heraklion "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER) is a chronicle of tourism development on the island of Crete. Its story began in 1939, when the first airfield was built. Initially, it was a simple runway serving small aircraft. The first passenger flight on a Junkers Ju 52 aircraft took place that same year, connecting Heraklion with Athens and marking the beginning of civil aviation in the region.

After World War II, in 1947, the first small passenger terminal was built, providing an impetus for the restoration and development of air travel. However, the real boom occurred in the 60s and 70s, when Crete became one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. To cope with the growing flow of travellers, a new runway was constructed between 1968 and 1971, and in March 1972, a modern terminal opened, which, with numerous upgrades, continues to function to this day.

The airport proudly bears the name of Nikos Kazantzakis, the world-renowned Greek writer and philosopher, author of the novel "Zorba the Greek", who was born in Crete. Over the decades, the airport has been repeatedly expanded and renovated to meet international standards and serve millions of passengers annually. It has firmly secured its position as the second busiest airport in Greece after Athens, especially during the peak tourist season.

An interesting fact: due to its location near urban development and limited opportunities for further expansion, Heraklion Airport operates at the limit of its capacity. This is why a decision was made to build a new international airport in Kastelli, which will take over the main passenger flow in the future, opening a new chapter in the history of Cretan aviation. For now, "Nikos Kazantzakis" continues to be the main air gateway to this sunny island.

Heraklion Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis", despite its compact dimensions, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a meal or a coffee. The main retail outlet is the Duty Free shop, offering a standard range of perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco products, and Greek souvenirs.

For those seeking greater comfort, business lounges operate at the airport. Access can be obtained for a fee or via privilege cards. The waiting lounges provide access to complimentary Wi-Fi, although network load can be high during peak hours. Power outlets for charging electronic devices are also located throughout the terminal, but their number is limited, so it is best to carry a portable power bank.

Basic financial services are available within the airport territory: there are several ATMs and currency exchange points. For emergencies, a medical station is ready to provide first aid. Travellers with small children can use the mother and child room to care for infants in a quiet environment.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs and special assistance during boarding and disembarking are provided, however, it is recommended to notify the airline in advance regarding the need for such services. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but numerous accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity, a few minutes away by taxi. There are no specialised conference halls in the public zone, but basic business services, such as workspaces and internet access, can be found in the VIP lounges.

Heraklion Airport offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal while waiting for a flight. Despite its relatively small size, you can find establishments here to suit various tastes and budgets. They are mainly concentrated in the departure zone, but a few food outlets are also available for those meeting passengers.

Before passing security control (in the public zone), the choice is usually limited to a few cafes where you can drink coffee, eat a sandwich, or enjoy local pastries. The majority of restaurants and cafes are located in the secure zone, after passport control and screening. Here you will find both fast-food chains and cafes with more diverse menus offering salads, hot dishes, and desserts.

If you want a quick snack, look for the numerous coffee shops and snack bars. They are perfect for grabbing a sandwich, croissant, or famous Greek pastries such as tiropita (cheese pie) or spanakopita (spinach pie). For a more substantial meal, it is worth visiting one of the self-service restaurants where you can order Greek and European dishes, for example, moussaka or pasta. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a final taste of Crete before departure.

Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, especially during the high tourist season from morning until late evening. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city. Regarding special dietary requirements, vegetarian options, such as salads or vegetable sandwiches, are easy to find. Finding vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes might be more challenging, so it is best to verify the ingredients with the staff at the specific establishment.

To ensure your journey from Heraklion goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER) can be very busy during the summer season, so preparation will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival time at the airport. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic one. In peak months (July-August), queues for check-in and security control can be significant, so it is better to have extra time.

Check-in and Security Control. If your airline offers online check-in, be sure to use it. This will save time and sometimes allow you to choose a seat. When passing through security, prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection on the Plane. Want to take beautiful farewell photos of Crete from above? When departing from Heraklion, try to choose a window seat on the left side of the aircraft (seats A). Depending on the take-off path, you may get excellent views of the coastline. For greater comfort and legroom, choose aisle seats.

Hand Luggage. Standard EU rules apply here. Besides restrictions on liquids, ensure there are no prohibited items in your hand luggage: sharp objects, large quantities of local products (olive oil or honey are best checked in), as well as certain types of souvenirs. Always check your airline's regulations.

Connecting Passengers. Heraklion Airport is not a major transit hub. Most flights are direct. If you have a self-transfer, allow plenty of time. You will likely have to collect luggage, exit the arrivals zone, and go through check-in and security control again for the next flight.

Customs Control. When flying to non-EU countries, you may need to pass customs control. If you have purchased goods requiring declaration or wish to process Tax-Free, approach the customs counter before checking in for your flight and dropping off luggage. For travel within the Schengen zone, customs formalities are usually absent.

Saving Time and Money. Book a transfer to the airport online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a drinking fountain after passing security control to avoid buying water at inflated prices. Souvenirs and local delicacies are also better purchased in the city rather than at the airport.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor information on the departure boards and listen to announcements. Approach your airline's counter for information. If you are flying from Greece on a European airline or to an EU country, in the event of a long delay, you are entitled to refreshments, meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation in accordance with EU Regulation No. 261/2004. Be sure to keep all receipts for necessary expenses.