Getting from Mykonos to Crete

Crete is a destination in itself rather than just an island. It is the largest island in Greece and one of the largest in the Mediterranean, with enough variety to fill a month of travel. The north coast has the cities, the history and the beaches that most visitors head to first. The south coast is wilder and harder to reach, with deep gorges cutting through the White Mountains down to the Libyan Sea. Heraklion has the Palace of Knossos and one of the finest archaeological museums in Greece. Chania has one of the most beautiful old towns in the country. Rethymno sits between the two with a Venetian harbour and a character entirely its own. Crete rewards return visits because most people only scratch the surface the first time.

Take the ferry

There is a direct ferry from Mykonos to Heraklion in Crete, which is the main port on the island. Seajets and Blue Star Ferries both operate the route seasonally from April to October with daily crossings in the summer months. The crossing takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on the operator and vessel. There is also an indirect connection to Rethymno via Santorini for those heading to the western part of the island. Book ahead in July and August as this is one of the more popular Cyclades to Crete crossings and it fills up fast.

What about flying?

Crete has two airports, Heraklion and Chania, both of which have connections to Athens. Mykonos has an airport so flying is an option on this route. The journey goes Mykonos to Athens and then Athens to either Heraklion or Chania, with total travel time around 3 to 4 hours door to door. Which airport you fly into depends on which part of Crete you are heading to. Heraklion is better for the centre and east, Chania for the west.

Your best option

If you are heading to Heraklion or the central part of Crete, the direct ferry is a good option and the crossing is enjoyable. If you are heading straight to Chania, flying via Athens is more practical since there is no direct ferry to Chania from Mykonos. Either way, give Crete as much time as you can. It is an island that deserves more than a few days.