Getting from Athens to Heraklion

If you are heading to Heraklion from Athens you are going to the capital of Crete and the gateway to one of the richest archaeological landscapes in the world. Heraklion itself is a working city with a Venetian harbour, a fortress at the entrance to the port and an Archaeological Museum that houses the finest collection of Minoan art and artefacts anywhere on earth. The Palace of Knossos, the centre of Minoan civilisation, is just 5 kilometres from the city centre. The food market on 1866 Street is one of the best in Greece. Heraklion rewards those who spend time in it rather than treating it purely as a transit point for the rest of Crete.

Take the ferry

The Piraeus to Heraklion ferry is one of the most heavily used routes in Greece, running year-round with up to 5 daily crossings in summer. The overnight crossing takes around 8 to 9 hours, departing in the evening from Piraeus and arriving in Heraklion in the early morning. It is one of the most comfortable and practical overnight crossings in Greece with cabins available on the larger vessels. Book well ahead in July and August.

Getting there by air

Both Athens and Heraklion have airports. Multiple daily flights connect the two cities with the journey taking around 50 minutes. This 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 Heraklion in the morning with the whole day ahead of you. If time is short, fly. Either way book ahead in summer as both ferry and flight fill up quickly on this route.