How big is Heraklion Airport?
Not big. One runway between the city’s eastern suburbs and the sea, one terminal, and an apron where most aircraft park away from the building. In winter you can cross the terminal in five minutes. In summer the same space handles a charter wave every couple of hours, which is why the airport has a reputation for queues and why the replacement at Kastelli is being built.
What is Heraklion Airport like? Our review
The good: it is five kilometres from the city, so a taxi into Heraklion is cheap and quick; the forecourt puts taxis, buses, rental cars and transfers within a minute’s walk; and outside peak season it is easy-going.
The less good: summer weekends are crowded, the non-Schengen B-gate area in particular; seating runs short; and food is basic (no McDonald’s, Goody’s and Forno Luca instead). Air conditioning is there but struggles on August afternoons.
Verdict: fine if you plan for it. Arrive at the right time (our timing guide), eat before you come, and pre-book your ride out.
HER contact and practical details
| Official name | Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” |
| Codes | IATA HER · ICAO LGIR (what they mean) |
| Location | Nea Alikarnassos, 5 km east of central Heraklion, Crete, Greece |
| Operator | Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) |
| Flight information | Your airline’s app or website (most reliable for delays) |
Moires, Matala and the south from the airport
Heading to the south coast? Moires is about 60 km away (around 1 h 15 by car), Matala about 75 km (around 1 h 30). KTEL coaches leave from Heraklion city, not the airport. A rental car or a transfer is the practical choice.