Heraklion transportation

You will find information about transportation in Heraklion and how to move around below:

You can move around Heraklion by using a:
Public Bus (KTEL) • Rental Car • Taxis & Private Transfers • Tour • Sea bus
Don't miss our FAQ.

In brief, the best way to move through the vast prefecture of Heraklion is with a rental car. We provide a car rental service at the lowest cost and rated

Don't forget to get informed about how to get to Heraklion in order to optimize your travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have gathered the most common questions regarding transportation in Heraklion and answered them for you.
Do you have another question? Are you looking for additional information to organize your trip? Let us know! You can send us your questions or post them in our community section.
Our informative team and community members will be more than happy to serve you!

• How can I get to my hotel from the airport?

The KTEL and public bus stops can be spotted outside the Departures area of Heraklion Airport, east of the terminal. Buses departing from the airport head towards the capital of Heraklion, select spots near the Town, or nearby prefectures!
Simple bus routes connect different parts of the Town with the rest of Heraklion throughout the year, yet KTEL buses from the Town to other destinations in Heraklion are also available. If your accommodation lies in a more tourist-friendly settlement like Hersonissos, Malia, Xeropotamos, and Stalida, you can reach it via bus.
Taxis and car rental desks are also found near the airport. If you prefer avoiding public transport, it is highly recommended to book a transfer service or a rental car in advance, especially if you are visiting during the high season. Car rental agencies can bring your vehicle to the port or airport premises upon request so that you can use it immediately! Having your transfer arranged will save you tons of precious time and allow you not to miss a minute of your vacation!
Also, keep in mind that several hotels offer a shuttle service to guests, so contact your accommodation of choice in advance!

• How can I get to my hotel from the port?

A KTEL bus stop lies right at the port of Heraklion, with buses to the capitals of Chania, Rethymno, and Lassithi, as well as parts of the Heraklion prefecture. Most KTEL routes are available throughout the year, so if your accommodation lies in the city center or a known settlement, you can reach it via bus. City bus itineraries to and from Heraklion are frequent.
Moreover, taxis are available at the port, the airport, and the center of Heraklion Town, but due to the high number of arriving tourists (especially during the high season), catching one can be difficult. Booking a transfer service or renting a car guarantees fast and convenient transportation. Car rental agencies can bring your vehicle to the port premises upon request, in case you want to use it immediately.
Also, note that a handful of hotels offer a shuttle service to their visitors, so contact your accommodation of choice in advance!

• How can I get to Heraklion Town?

Heraklion Town can be reached by bus or private transfers from both the port and the airport of Heraklion!
In addition, the Town is the most renowned and visited spot in Heraklion (and all of Crete), so city bus itineraries are frequent, especially during the summer! There are over a dozen urban bus routes for all residents and visitors of Heraklion.

• How can I get to some of the finest beaches?

A rental car is the best way to reach numerous seashores since most upper-tier options are far from the city center. In addition, some bus itineraries can reach some of the Town's most popular shores, while taxis are always an alternative. Nonetheless, if you are interested in visiting the most popular beaches, check out our organized tours!

• Can I rely on public means of transport?

Buses of Heraklion connect the prefecture's main spots with the majority of popular settlements, with itineraries being frequent throughout the summer. On the other hand, should you prefer to explore select spots and hidden gems of Heraklion with little time pressure, rent a car that suits you and your vacation-time needs. Book your car with us!

• Are the distances between Heraklion Town and the touristy spots long?

Heraklion is a large part of Crete, with a plethora of lengthy and tiring distances. A trip towards the southern shores and mountainous villages of Heraklion can be quite a challenge, though northern Heraklion and tourist-friendly spots can be relatively easy to access!