Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Heraklion gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HER to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside HER
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HER:
First, verify that you can enter Greece — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 40 minutes into Heraklion, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Heraklion, we’d suggest Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Koules Fortress (Venetian Fortress). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HER, you can spend time at Goldair Handling Lounge or try Hellenic Duty Free Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near HER
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Heraklion: Peskesi and Herb’s Garden. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Everest S.A. or La Pasteria. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Heraklion
From HER, the local transport gets you to Heraklion in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Heraklion might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Heraklion.
Storing Your Luggage at Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport
Luggage storage options at HER can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Heraklion for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HER, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Heraklion itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Greece that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at HER
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at HER.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Heraklion is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Heraklion.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.