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Athens to Heraklion (Crete) from $45: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Athens, Greece
to
Heraklion (Crete), Greece

How to Get from Athens to Heraklion : Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$45 - FerryBest price
201 milesDistance
2h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Athens to Heraklion (Crete) with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  45m
Estimated price
$51-152
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  40m
Estimated price
$40-380
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 201 miles
Duration: 2h 45m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$45-130
Company
KTEL Fthiotidos
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
16h  10m
Estimated price
$72-85
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
$159-331
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  32m
Estimated price
$205-470

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Ferry $39 $39 $39 $39 $39 $39 $38
Fly $55 $41 $56 $51 $71 $71 $75
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Traveling From Athens to Heraklion (Crete)

The journey from Athens to Heraklion offers a striking contrast between the bustling urban landscape of Greece's capital and the serene charm of Crete's coastal beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Heraklion (Crete)

Heraklion is rich in diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Old Town
• Cobblestone streets with historical architecture.
• Vibrant atmosphere filled with shops and cafes.
Koules Fortress Area
• Scenic views of the sea and harbor.
• Close proximity to ancient landmarks.
Mount Giouhtas
• Stunning hiking trails and panoramic vistas.
• Quiet escape from bustling city life.

Best Times To Visit Heraklion (Crete)'s Attractions

Planning your visit to Heraklion can enhance your experience at its iconic sites.

Knossos Palace
Early morning visits before 10 AM offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Weekdays during late afternoons provide a quieter atmosphere for exploration.
Venetian Harbor
Sunrise or sunset visits create stunning views and a tranquil ambiance.

Heraklion (Crete) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Heraklion enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it appealing throughout the year. Spring and early fall are generally the best times to visit, as pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists enhance the overall travel experience.

Culinary Delights in Heraklion (Crete)

Try the traditional Cretan dish 'mousaka' at Peskesi, where the rich layers of eggplant and minced meat are elevated by locally sourced olive oil and herbs. Unlike Athens, the dining atmosphere here reflects Crete’s vibrant rural heritage, creating a unique blend of flavors and a warm, inviting ambiance.

Athens - Heraklion (Crete) operators

Explore transport companies operating between Athens and Heraklion (Crete), with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Heraklion (HER)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$60-200

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Chania (CHQ)

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$60-240
Website
skyexpress.gr

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Heraklion (HER)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$55-180

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Chania (CHQ)

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$55-210
Website
volotea.com

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Heraklion (HER)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$40-200
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
22310 - 51345
Website
ktelfthiotidos.gr

Bus from Athens - KTEL Liosion street to Lamia

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$22-25

Bus from Lamia to Heraklion

Average Duration
12h 10m
Estimated price
$50-60
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+30 693-724-9486
Website
cretetaxitransfers.gr

Other from Chania - Airport to Heraklion

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$150-280

Other from Athens to Heraklion

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$150-260
Ferry
Contact phone
+30 2810 399800
Website
minoan.gr

Ferry from Port of Piraeus to Heraklion

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
$55-140
Contact phone
+30 210 4284000
Website
fastferries.com.gr

Ferry from Port of Piraeus to Heraklion

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$40-380
Contact phone
+30 210 89 19 800
Website
hellenicseaways.gr

Ferry from Port of Piraeus to Heraklion

Average Duration
9h 15m
Estimated price
$45-130
Contact phone
+302108919800
Website
bluestarferries.com

Ferry from Port of Piraeus to Heraklion

Average Duration
9h 59m
Estimated price
$45-110
Contact phone
+30 210 4121001
Website
seajets.com

Ferry from Port of Piraeus to Ios

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$80-200

Ferry from Ios to Heraklion

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$75-140

Athens to Heraklion : Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Athens and Heraklion (Crete) offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🛫 Experience a seamless journey from Athens to Heraklion in just 50 minutes on a direct flight. Choose from reputable airlines like Volotea, Sky Express, and Aegean Airlines departing from Athens Airport. 🌅 Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, soak in the beauty of Crete after a quick 2 hours and 45 minutes flight. 💸 With flight prices ranging from €47 to €140, flying from Athens to Heraklion offers an affordable and efficient way to explore the stunning island of Crete. Prepare for a memorable travel experience filled with Mediterranean charm and warm hospitality.
Departure Point
Athens Airport
Arrival Point
Heraklion Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Buy your ticket in advance through budget airlines like Volotea or Sky Express for the best deals, as prices can fluctuate between €48 and €143, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, follow the signs for baggage claim and customs; Heraklion is a compact airport, so you should efficiently navigate your way to the exit and ground transportation options.
• Expect taxi fares from Heraklion Airport to the city center to range between €15 and €20, depending on traffic and time of day; it’s a quick 15-20 minute ride, and taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area.
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Athens to Heraklion, you can take a service departing from Athens - KTEL Liosion street and arriving at Heraklion via Lamia. The journey, with transfers, takes around 16 hours and 10 minutes. 🌄 Departing from Athens - KTEL Liosion street station, the bus journey to Heraklion is operated by KTEL Fthiotidos. 💶 The bus ticket prices for the Athens to Heraklion route vary from €66 to €78, providing a cost-effective option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Crete from the bustling capital of Athens.
Departure Point
Athens - KTEL Liosion street station
Arrival Point
Heraklion station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Athens to Heraklion (Crete).

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The distance between Athens and Heraklion is approximately 323.5 km. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. The fastest option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 44 minutes. Taking a ferry is the slowest option, with a travel time of 9 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Athens to Heraklion takes around 16 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective option to travel from Athens to Heraklion is by car ferry, which takes 9 hours and 15 minutes and costs €37-€138. This option allows you to take your own vehicle and enjoy the scenic views during the journey. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes 2 hours and 44 minutes and costs €46-€156.
The prices for traveling from Athens to Heraklion can vary depending on the mode of transportation. The prices range from €66 to €72 for a bus and from €37 to €138 for a ferry.
The best way to travel from Athens to Heraklion without a car is to take a car ferry via Fira. This journey takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes and costs around €101-€284. Another option is to take a flight from Athens to Heraklion, which takes around 2 hours and 44 minutes. There are also buses available that take approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes to reach Heraklion from Athens.
No, there is no direct link between Athens and Heraklion by bus. However, there are bus services available that depart from Athens and arrive in Heraklion with a transfer in Lamia, taking approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct ferry service that operates twice daily from Piraeus to Heraklion, with a travel time of around 9 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between Athens and Heraklion takes approximately 50 minutes. Prices for flights between the two cities typically range from €47 to €149.
There are plenty of options for accommodations in Heraklion. With over 2,163 hotels available, you can find something to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at €46 per night, offering a range of choices for different travelers.

Trips from Athens