Cheap flights to Crete Heraklion airport

Discover Crete Heraklion

Cheap Flights to Crete (HER) 

Approximately 6,000 islands comprise the country of Greece. And although Crete is the largest of the 227 inhabited islands in and of itself, it's actually more of a small country. Visiting Crete is an easy decision due to its majestic landscape of white sand beaches, agricultural wealth, and ancient treasures. But fitting the best sensory enjoyment into one affordable trip can be quite the task. Fortunately, Skyscanner is up to the challenge so you never have to plan your trip alone.

Connecting to Heraklion International Airport (HER)

Located just five kilometers east of Heraklion's city center, Heraklion's International Airport (also known as Nikos Kazantzakis) is the primary and busiest passenger airport on Crete. HER serves almost 7 million passengers and hosts approximately 44,000 aircraft movements annually. While there are no direct flights from Canada to Crete, dozens of connecting airlines are available depending on how much of the world you want to see along the way and when you prefer to visit.

This single-terminal airport has free WiFi, conference rooms, limited shops and eateries, as well as child and disability facilities. HER is considered a sleeping airport, but it doesn't have showers. So those staying more than a night should make use of some of the local hotels near the airport or further into Crete. First class lounges are located on the first floor and open to members or economy travelers for a fee. The local bus stop is a short walk from the airport terminal and is the cheapest mode of transportation at around €1.50 ($2.25 CAD). Taxis are found across the arrival hall and cost around €10 ($15 CAD) to the city center. An array of airport-accessible car rental options appeals to visitors who prefer to drive on their Crete vacation.

Things to Do in Crete

Greek mythology states that Zeus was born in Crete, and two mountain caves contest their rights as his birthplace. Visitors are welcome to explore Dikteon Cave and Ideon Cave to make their best guess. Rethymnon is an ancient neighborhood in old town with Turkish influences. While the food and shopping delights aren't free, roaming the maze-like streets certainly is.

Vai beach is known for its stunning landscape and the largest palm grove in Europe. Elafonisi Beach, on the other hand, is recognized for its pink sand and crystal blue waters. For those with a little extra financial wriggle room, The Palace of Knossos, Samaria Gorge National Park, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and Cretaquarium are must-see excursions for lifelong memories.

Canada to Crete Travel Tips

Crete's tourist season (summer) can reach temperatures of 30-33 °C. To avoid the blistering heat, crowds, and winter rain, head over in the off-season months of October, November, March, and April. Crete doesn't have any national travel warnings for Canadians, but visitors must be prepared with an updated passport and necessary inoculations prior to traveling. And be sure to convert CAD to Euros prior to the flight to avoid time-consuming delays upon arrival.