Heraklion Airport to Hersonissos: distance and transport
Hersonissos is about 25 km east of Heraklion Airport: 25–30 minutes by car, €40–55 by taxi, or a few euros by KTEL coach. It is the closest of the big resorts, so every option works.
Heraklion Airport to Hersonissos: options compared
| Option | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 25–30 min | €40–55 |
| Private transfer | 25–30 min | fixed per car, similar range |
| KTEL coach | 40–60 min | a few euros per person |
| Rental car | 25–30 min | daily rate |
Which Hersonissos?
“Hersonissos” is a strip of resorts: Anissaras and Analipsi to the west, Limenas Hersonissou (the harbour and main strip) in the middle, Koutouloufari and Piskopiano on the hill above, and Stalis to the east. Taxi and transfer prices depend on which one, so give the exact hotel.
By KTEL bus
KTEL Heraklion–Lasithi coaches run along the coast to Hersonissos, Stalis and Malia. Some services stop by the airport; otherwise take the city bus into Heraklion first. In daylight with a suitcase this is perfectly doable; check the day’s timetable on ktelherlas.gr. Our KTEL guide explains the stops.
Our pick
Couple landing in the afternoon: taxi from the rank. Family, or landing after 10 pm on a summer Saturday: pre-book a transfer and skip the queue. Going on to Malia? See Heraklion Airport to Malia.
Hersonissos on arrival: what to know
The main strip at Limenas Hersonissou is lively in summer, with bars along the harbour and the beach road. For quieter evenings, the hill villages of Koutouloufari and Piskopiano, a short walk or taxi above, have tavernas with views. Beaches: the sandy Star Beach area east of the harbour, and smaller coves towards Anissaras to the west.
What to see near Hersonissos
- Lychnostatis open-air museum: a reconstructed traditional Cretan village on the coast.
- Water parks: several are on the Hersonissos side of the national road, popular with families.
- Knossos (about 35 min) and Heraklion city (about 30 min) for a cultural day.
Back to the airport, allow 30–40 minutes in summer: see how early to arrive.
Sources and official links
Frequently asked questions
How far is Hersonissos from Heraklion Airport?
About 25 km, 25–30 minutes by car.
How much is a taxi from Heraklion Airport to Hersonissos?
About €40–55 for the car in 2026.
Is there a bus from Heraklion Airport to Hersonissos?
Yes, KTEL coaches run along the coast to Hersonissos; some stop by the airport, others leave from Heraklion.
How long is the transfer from Heraklion Airport to Hersonissos?
About 25–30 minutes, more on summer weekend afternoons.
Where to stay in Hersonissos for a quiet holiday?
In the hill villages of Koutouloufari or Piskopiano, or at the western end towards Anissaras, away from the harbour bars.
What is there to do in Hersonissos besides the beach?
The Lychnostatis open-air museum, water parks, and day trips to Knossos and Heraklion.
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