Heraklion International Airport, officially named Nikos Kazantzakis after the renowned Greek writer, serves as Crete’s primary gateway, located just 5 kilometres east of Heraklion’s city centre in Nea Alikarnassos. Handling over 8 million passengers annually, it ranks as Greece’s second-busiest airport after Athens, connecting to 100 destinations across Europe and domestic routes to islands like Santorini and Rhodes via carriers such as Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and easyJet. Its single-terminal design, while compact, offers essential amenities for travellers exploring Crete’s beaches, historical sites, and coastal towns. A new airport at Kasteli, set to replace it by 2027, promises expanded capacity.
The passenger experience at Heraklion Airport is practical, though it can feel crowded during peak summer months. The single terminal, spanning 21,000 square metres, handles both Schengen and non-Schengen flights, with departures split across two halls on the same level. Arrivals often involve a short walk from the tarmac or a quick bus transfer, and clear signage in English, Greek, and other languages guides passengers to baggage claim or exits. Check-in, with 26 counters and self-service kiosks, is generally efficient, but kiosks can take 10–15 seconds to load, and queues may form during busy periods.
Security screening requires liquids in a 1-litre bag and electronics removed, with wait times averaging 15–30 minutes but occasionally reaching an hour due to limited lanes. Staff are courteous, and a free assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility, bookable 48 hours in advance, includes wheelchair support and priority access via the SKY Fast Lane for Sky Express passengers. Some travellers note outdated facilities and insufficient seating, but the terminal remains functional.
Accessing the airport is straightforward, thanks to its proximity to Heraklion and the E75 motorway. Local KTEL buses depart every 10–15 minutes from outside the arrivals hall to Heraklion’s Bus Station A, taking 15–20 minutes for €1.50, with connections to Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, and Rethymno. Late-night services are limited, with the last bus to Heraklion at 9:15 pm so late arrivals may need taxis, costing €15–€20 to the city centre or €30–€40 to resorts like Hersonissos. Car hire desks from Avis, Europcar, and Hertz are in the arrivals area, and a 722-space open-air car park, including 10 VIP covered spots, is steps from the terminal, starting at €5 per day. Cyclists can use nearby bike paths, with free parking available. Traffic on Ikarou Road during rush hours can delay journeys, so allowing extra time is wise.
The airport’s layout is compact, with arrivals and departures on the same level, supported by two runways (2,714 metres and 1,566 metres). The terminal includes 14 gates and 15 aircraft parking stands, with most gates within a five-minute walk from security. Digital flight displays provide updates, but the absence of tannoy announcements means passengers must check monitors regularly. The terminal can feel cramped in summer, with passengers occasionally waiting outside due to limited space. Recent expansions, completed in 2018, have improved flow, but ongoing upgrades may cause minor disruptions.
Delays can occur, particularly in July and August, with average delays of 15–30 minutes due to high passenger volumes, understaffing, or weather conditions like strong winds. On-time performance is generally reliable, but capacity issues have been reported, so arriving three hours early for international flights and two for domestic is advised. Dining and retail options are modest but adequate. The departure hall features two full-service restaurants serving Greek and international dishes, alongside cafes like Everest for coffee and snacks, open from 6 am. to 9 pm. A Heinemann Duty-Free shop and Relay kiosk offer souvenirs, olive oil, and travel essentials, though prices can be high compared to local markets. Limited options for special diets suggest planning ahead. The Goldair Handling and Filoxenia Lounges, accessible for €20–€25, provide snacks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet space.
Facilities meet essential needs. Free Wi-Fi is available for 30 minutes, with paid options for extended access. ATMs from National Bank and Piraeus Bank, currency exchange, a post office, and a 24-hour medical centre are present. Baby-changing rooms, accessible toilets, ramps, and reserved parking support passengers with disabilities. Baggage storage (€3–€5 per hour) and wrapping services are available, and a lost-and-found desk operates via . 30 2810 397349. A visitor terrace offers runway views, though photography is restricted due to the airport’s military use.
Connections are limited, as the airport focuses on point-to-point routes. The minimum connection time is 35 minutes, but self-transfers require clearing security and immigration, taking up to an hour. Popular routes to Athens, London, and Amsterdam are frequent, but passengers should allow a two-hour buffer to avoid delays from congestion or weather. Checking flight status via www.heraklion-airport.gr or FlightStats is recommended.
Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus operates seasonal flights to Dublin from the Main Terminal at Heraklion International Airport. Check-in desks are typically in the Check-in Area (desks 1–20 range), but assignments vary due to the airport’s moderate size. Check-in opens 2 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before departure. Online check-in is available 30 hours to 4.5 hours prior. Aer Lingus check-in is in the main terminal, check-in hall (dynamic desks 1-50; self-service kiosks available).
Flights typically depart from Gates 1–30 in the non-Schengen area. Specific gates are assigned close to departure and displayed on airport screens.
Heraklion is a seasonal route (summer months), so confirm flight schedules and arrive 90 minutes before departure.
