The Official Airport Assistance Network of the World Airports
The Official Airport Assistance Network of the World Airports
Everest is a very popular choice for a quick bite; they serve up sandwiches, pies, pastries and coffee. Travellers enjoy their authentically made Greek cheese pies, and the fact that it is right after security. It is great for what you are looking for when you need in and out service in the departure area. They have a mix of hot and cold options, which makes them a great option at any time of the day. Lines do get long, but service is quick.
Hellas Café is a great spot for travellers to wait out the time before check-in. We offer espresso, fresh juices, light snacks and traditional Greek sweets. Also, we have comfortable seating, which is a plus for families and early birds. We are appreciated for our quieter atmosphere, which is a change from the busier airside cafés. A great option if you prefer to stay landside before the security check. Also, our pastries are very popular.
Goody’s serves up burgers, salads, kids’ meals and Greek fast food, which in turn makes them a diverse choice for travellers. We are near to which are very busy at times, and thus are a great place to drop in for lunch or dinner. Also, we note that portion sizes are large and the menu includes options for the kids as well as the adults. The casual atmosphere is what you’d expect from a travel spot. Also, a reliable stop during peak times.
This is the primary shopping area at HER, which has an array of perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, Greek olive oils, herbs and souvenirs. We have a great choice of seasonal items that grow in variety for the summer months. Travellers, we think, will appreciate the choice of Greek products, which in fact are a representation of local culture. It’s a great stop for last-minute buys before you board. Also staff are very helpful with product samples and recommendations.
These shops present traditional Greek ceramics, handmade soaps, natural skincare and travel-sized gifts. Passengers leave with local items like Cretan honey or pottery. The stores are small but have a chosen selection. Very accessible from all terminals, which makes shopping easy. Perfect for travellers looking for a quick cultural memento.
At Heraklion International Airport (HER), you will see that duty- free has a local Crete feel while still having the big names that travellers expect. The design is compact yet very functional; in fact, the variety of products available is impressive, from beauty products to fine fragrances and sweet treats like wine and travel accessories. Also, you will see a wide range of international brands present, like Lancome, Dior, Chanel, but also a large variety of traditional Cretan goods such as thyme honey, olive oil skin care and regional wines that make great authentic presents. Also, the staff is very helpful and informative, which in turn makes it easy for customers to compare products or pick out those local items that may be hard to find at home. For whatever you are shopping for, whether that be top-end beauty products, artisan Cretan goods, or last-minute travel items, the duty-free shop at HER is a great experience up until your departure.
The Skyserv Lounge is home to many airlines, which we found to have very comfortable seating, snacks, drinks and Wi-Fi. We located it near the international departure gates, which is also very useful for evening flights. The atmosphere is quieter than the main terminal, which in turn gives you that much-needed break. Also, they have workspaces for business travellers. AirportAssist does a great job with entry.
This lounge has food, drink, newspapers and a quiet place to rest. It is very accessible from the main terminal area to most gates. We find that which is provided to be quite comfortable, with not too many people to go. Great for passengers who prefer a more tranquil pre-flight time.
HER is a functional airport with limited leisure options, but travellers can still enjoy a few simple experiences. There are small cultural displays showcasing Cretan history near certain waiting areas. Seating near large windows offers views of the runway and the blue Cretan coastline. Families can relax in quieter corners near less-busy gates. Travellers with longer waits often enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the cafés. While the airport lacks extensive attractions, its simplicity keeps movement easy.
Transportation in Heraklion Airport (HER) is a simple matter, which in turn makes it easy for travellers to get to the city as well as Crete’s popular coastal resorts. We see that public buses are a very accessible option, which run frequent routes to Heraklion city centre, the port, and also to many of the main hotel areas, which also happens to be a very affordable option for daytime arrivals. Taxis are plentiful outside the terminal and have set prices, which make for a fast and very reliable transport, a great choice for travellers with lots of bags or for late-night arrivals. Also very popular are private transfers, which include door-to-door service and are a hit with families headed to the resort areas like Hersonissos, Malia or Agia Pelagia. Also within the airport is the car rental, which gives travellers the easy option of seeing the villages, the beaches and the archaeological sites at their own pace.
With 3 hours to kill, start at Everest for a Greek coffee or pastry once you clear security. In the duty-free shops, check out the perfumes, olive oils, or Greek sweets. Also, spend some time in the Skyserv Lounge, which has Wi-Fi and refreshments. See what small cultural exhibits are put out near the departure gates. Also, check your gate often, as last-minute changes do occur.
Take a taxi from the airport to Heraklion city centre, which is 10-15 minutes away. Weave through to the Venetian Harbour or stop for a coffee by the waterfront. If you have some time left, perambulate Lions Square for a look at local shops and cafes. Head back to the airport at least 2 hours before your departure, accounting for traffic in the city. AirportAssist fast track is a good option once you’re back at HER.
With a layover that is a long layover, we recommend going to see the Palace of Knossos, which is a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport. In there, you can explore the ruins and have a look at the ancient Cretan history. Also, do not miss out on going into Heraklion city to see the Archaeological Museum, which will give you a better perspective. Also, treat yourself to a traditional Greek lunch before heading back. Back at the airport, make sure to arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before your flight.
Take a cab to Karteros Beach, which is a 10-minute drive from the airport, for a soothing seaside break. Enjoy a cool dip in the water or a light meal at one of the beachside cafes. This is great for travellers looking for peace from the city crowds. The coast is beautiful with mild waves and warm breezes. Head back early to avoid traffic issues.
If you love markets, head to the central market in Heraklion, which is a 15-minute trip. Pass through a variety of stalls which have local cheeses, herbs, handmade soaps and souvenirs. It is a colourful and lively experience, which also gives you a taste of Crete. For a small bite to eat, drop into a nearby café. Just be sure to make your way back to HER before boarding.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | ERH (Heraklion International Airport of Nikos Kazantzakis) |
| Location | In Heraklion, Crete, Greece. |
| Terminals | Main terminal, which handles both domestic and international flights. |
| 24/7 Services | Available (selected dining, duty-free, transport) |
| Wi-Fi | Free airport Wi-Fi available in the terminal areas |
| Wheelchair Access | Fully available with pre-bookable assistance |
