HERUpdated November 3, 2025

Heraklion airport

Heraklion · Greece

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Heraklion airport (HER)
Illustrative image
HER · Overview
Weather now
21 °C · Mostly clear
Passengers 2024
9.4 million
From the city
5 km

About the airport

Heraklion airport (HER)
Illustrative image

Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis (HER), opened in March 1939, is one of the most important airports in Greece and serves the capital of the island of Crete. It operates domestic flights and a large number of seasonal international destinations throughout Europe and the Middle East. It is expected to be replaced by the new Kasteli International Airport, currently under construction, by the year 2027.

Official Website: heraklion-airport.gr

Telephone: +30 281 039 7800

Terminals

The airport operates with a single passenger terminal which is open 24 hours.

Annual Traffic (2024): 9.4 million passengers.

Information Points

The information desk is located in the Arrivals Hall, next to the baggage claim area.

Location

The airport is located next to the municipality of Nea Alikarnassos, approximately 5 km (3 miles) east of the city of Heraklion.

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Airlines and terminals Aegean Airlines Aer Lingus Air Astana AirBaltic Air France Air Serbia AnimaWings Arkia Austrian Airlines Avion Express Azerbaijan Airlines Bluebird Airways British Airways Brussels Airlines Bulgaria… Full guide → Getting to and from HER The Heraklion urban bus service (Heraklion City Bus) connects the airport with the city centre and other destinations. The bus stop is located just a few… Full guide → Car rental The car rental company counters are located in the arrivals area of the terminal. Avis Budget Eurodollar Europcar Hertz Holiday Autos National Sixt Tourent Full guide → Services and VIP lounges The airport terminal offers a variety of services to make passengers' waiting time more comfortable. ATMs on the departures level and currency exchange bureaux, available before… Full guide → Hotels and overnight stay Although Heraklion Airport does not have hotels within its facilities, there are several accommodation options nearby and within the city, ideal for passengers in transit or… Full guide → Frequently asked questions You can take Heraklion’s urban buses. Line 6 takes you to the city centre. The bus stop is located a few minutes' walk from the terminal.… Full guide →

Parking

The airport offers parking options for both short and long stays, conveniently located near the terminal building. It is important to note that due to the high volume of passengers, especially during the high season, available spaces may be limited.

Parking Options

  • Short and Long Stay Parking: Located directly in front of the terminal. It offers spaces for quick pick-ups and drop-offs as well as longer stays. It is free for an initial period; however, conditions and availability may vary.
  • Designated Areas: There are specific areas for motorcycles and passengers with reduced mobility, the latter located in the spaces closest to the terminal entrance.

It is recommended to arrive well in advance, especially during peak demand periods, to secure a parking space. For more detailed information about rates, availability and regulations, you can consult the airport’s official website.

More information about parking

Special assistance

Heraklion Airport offers basic infrastructure for passengers with reduced mobility or special needs. Passengers requiring special assistance are advised to contact their airline at least 48 hours in advance to coordinate the necessary services.

Services and Recommendations

  • Personalised Assistance: The airline can organise assistance from arrival at the airport to boarding, and vice versa. It is essential to notify in advance to ensure availability.
  • Parking: There are designated parking spaces for vehicles transporting people with disabilities, conveniently located near the terminal entrance.
  • Mobility in the Terminal: The terminal has ramps and, where necessary, lifts to facilitate movement between different levels.
  • Adapted Toilets: Accessible toilets for wheelchair users are available at various points throughout the terminal.
  • Additional Information: For specific details regarding available services and assistance coordination, it is recommended to review the “Passengers with Special Needs” section on your airline’s website or contact the airport directly.
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