
Heraklion International Airport is the main gateway to Crete, Greece's largest island. Whether you're heading for Knossos, the beaches or the wider Aegean, compare airlines flying from Heraklion (HER) and set a Price Alert on Traveloka before you book.
Officially named Nikos Kazantzakis Airport after the celebrated Cretan author, HER served 10.03 million passengers in 2025, up 6.9% on the year before. That makes it Greece's second-busiest airport and the main entry point to Crete.
HER is served by over 20 airlines flying to more than 100 destinations across 23 countries, mostly across Europe. Fares and schedules are heavily seasonal, with far more routes running in the northern summer, so compare carriers and verify current schedules before you travel.
HER is an operational hub for Greek carriers Bluebird Airways and Sky Express. Aegean Airlines holds the largest overall market share, driven by its domestic routes within Greece, while Ryanair and easyJet together account for around 30% of traffic.
The airport currently operates from a single passenger terminal covering around 21,000 square metres, with two runways handling arrivals and departures.
Buses run frequently between the airport and Heraklion city centre, offering an affordable option. Taxis are also available directly outside the terminal for a quicker, more direct trip, and private transfers can be booked in advance.
The airport offers duty-free shopping, cafes and restaurants serving local and international food, free Wi-Fi, and currency exchange and ATM services throughout the terminal.
Ready to fly to Crete? Compare airlines on Traveloka and set a Price Alert so you can move quickly when a fare suits you. Always verify final fares and flight times at the time of booking.
