Getting from Athens to Crete

If you are heading to Crete from Athens you are going to the largest island in Greece and one of the most extraordinary destinations in the Mediterranean. Crete has everything: the Palace of Knossos and the finest Minoan archaeology in the world, the Samaria Gorge cutting through the White Mountains to the south coast, beaches that range from the famous to the completely deserted, a food tradition that is among the finest in Greece and a history that stretches back further than almost anywhere else in Europe. The island is large enough that a week barely scratches the surface and rewards those who return repeatedly.

Take the ferry

The Piraeus to Crete ferry is one of the most heavily used routes in Greece. Overnight ferries run year-round to Heraklion, with up to 5 daily crossings in summer taking around 8 to 9 hours. Overnight ferries to Chania run once or twice daily, taking around 8 to 9 hours. Seasonal connections to Rethymno are also available from May to October. The overnight crossing is one of the most comfortable and practical in Greece, departing in the evening and arriving in the morning with the whole day ahead. Book well ahead in July and August.

Getting there by air

Both Athens and Crete have airports, with international airports at Heraklion and Chania and a smaller airport at Sitia in the east. Multiple daily flights connect Athens to both Heraklion and Chania with the journey taking around 50 minutes. Flying is the fastest option and the most practical if you are short on time.

Your best option

Take the overnight ferry from Piraeus if you have the flexibility. It is comfortable, saves a night's accommodation and you arrive in Crete in the morning with the whole day ahead. If you are short on time or want to reach a specific part of the island quickly, fly. Either way book ahead in summer as both ferry and flight fill up fast on this route.