By plane
The main airports in Crete are located in Chania and Heraklion. A new airpot will open in 2027 in Kastelli. It will be the second largest from Greece.
Heraklion Airport (HER)
Location: Heraklion Airport is located about 5 kilometers east of the city center of Heraklion, the capital of Crete.
Airlines: Several major airlines offer direct flights to Heraklion from various cities and countries. These airlines include Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, TUI Airways, and Condor, among others. The availability of direct flights may vary depending on the season.
Airport Facilities: Heraklion Airport offers a range of facilities for travelers, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, currency exchange services, car rental agencies, and ATMs. There are also facilities for passengers with special needs, including accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces.
Transportation from the Airport: To reach major cities such as Heraklion and other popular destinations on the island, there are various transportation options available from the airport. These include taxis, public buses, and private transfers. The airport is well-connected to the city center and other parts of Crete by road networks.
Chania Airport (CHQ)
Location: Chania Airport is situated about 14 kilometers east of the city center of Chania, a charming coastal town in western Crete.
Airlines: Similar to Heraklion Airport, Chania Airport receives direct flights from several airlines. These include Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, TUI Airways, and Jet2.com, among others. The flight availability may vary depending on the season.
Airport Facilities: Chania Airport provides amenities such as restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, car rental agencies, currency exchange services, and ATMs. The airport also caters to the needs of passengers with disabilities, with facilities like accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces.
Transportation from the Airport: To reach Chania or other destinations in Crete, travelers can avail themselves of transportation options such as taxis, public buses, or private transfers. The airport is well-connected to the city center and other areas of the island via road networks.
By boat
Ferry Connections to Crete
From Athens (Piraeus Port)
Athens to Heraklion: There are regular ferry connections from Piraeus Port in Athens to the main port of Heraklion in Crete. Multiple ferry companies operate on this route, including Minoan Lines, Anek Lines, and Blue Star Ferries. The journey duration ranges from approximately 8 to 9 hours, depending on the type of ferry and the specific route. Overnight ferries with cabins are also available, offering a comfortable option for longer journeys.
From Other Greek Islands
Cyclades Islands: Crete is well-connected to various Cyclades Islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos. Ferry companies such as SeaJets, Golden Star Ferries, and Blue Star Ferries provide regular services between these islands and Crete. The duration of the journey can vary based on the specific route and the type of ferry, ranging from approximately 1.5 to 4.5 hours.
Dodecanese Islands: Ferries connect Crete with popular Dodecanese Islands such as Rhodes and Kos. Operators like Blue Star Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways offer services on these routes. The duration of the journey can range from approximately 4 to 12 hours, depending on the specific route and the type of ferry.
Schedules and Duration
Ferry schedules can vary depending on the season, so it's important to check the timetables for the specific dates of your travel. Ferries generally operate more frequently during the summer months, with reduced schedules during the off-peak season.
The duration of ferry journeys to Crete can vary based on the route and the type of ferry. Shorter routes, such as those from nearby islands, can range from approximately 1.5 to 4.5 hours. Longer routes, such as those from Athens, can range from approximately 8 to 12 hours, depending on the specific route and the type of ferry.
Advantages of Traveling by Ferry
Scenic Views: Traveling by ferry to Crete offers breathtaking scenic views of the Aegean Sea. Passengers can enjoy the beauty of the Greek islands, coastal landscapes, and the crystal-clear waters during the journey.
Flexibility: Ferries provide flexibility for travelers to bring their vehicles, including cars or motorcycles, allowing them to explore Crete independently.
Onboard Facilities: Ferries are equipped with various amenities such as comfortable seating, restaurants, cafes, shops, and outdoor deck areas, providing passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Experience the Sea: Traveling by ferry allows visitors to experience the maritime culture of Greece and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere onboard.
Island Hopping: Ferries provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to combine their visit to Crete with island hopping, allowing them to explore multiple destinations and experience the diversity of the Greek islands.
It's important to note that ferry schedules, operators, and routes may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It's advisable to check the latest information, book tickets in advance during peak seasons, and arrive at the ports with sufficient time before departure to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ferry journey to Crete.
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