Public bus service KTEL

Heraklion Airport

Public buses to Heraklion International Airport (HER) are operated by KTEL Heraklion-Lasithi and provide a convenient and affordable way to reach the airport from Heraklion city center and nearby areas.

Heraklion center

Reach the city center of Heraklion in less than 30 minutes with the public bus.

Hersonissos – Malia

Busses to Malia / Hersonissos depature from the main bus terminal in Heraklion. Take the airport city bus to the bus terminal Heraklion. 

Rethymno and west

Busses to Rethymno and to the west of Crete depature from the main bus terminal in Heraklion.

Heraklion City Center

Bus Details

  • Bus Line: #1 (Airport – City Center – Port)
  • Operator: KTEL Heraklion Urban Buses
  • Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes
  • Operating Hours: From 05:30 AM to 00:30 AM
  • Journey Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Fare:
    • Buy your tickets from the kiosk or machine. Prices for tickets inside the bus are more expensive

Where to catch the bus?

  • The bus stop is right outside the Arrivals terminal at the airport.

Main stops in the city center:

  • Eleftherias Square (Main Square)
  • Heraklion KTEL Central Bus Station (for long-distance buses)

Bus terminal Heraklion

. Take a Local Bus from Heraklion Airport to the KTEL Central Bus Station

  • Bus Line:  Bus #1 (Airport – City Center – Port)
  • Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes from early morning (~05:30) to midnight (~00:30).
  • Journey Time: 15–20 minutes to Heraklion KTEL Central Bus Station.
  1. Take a KTEL Bus from Heraklion to Malia
  • Bus Route:  Heraklion – Hersonissos – Stalis – Malia.
  • Operator: KTEL Heraklion-Lasithi.
  • Frequency: Every 30 minutes from 06:00 to 23:00.
  • Journey Time: About 50 minutes.
  • Fare: Around €4–5 per person.

Tickets

Bus tickets to your final destination can be bought inside of the bus terminal.

KTEL CRETE

Alternatives to the public bus | Airport – Hotel busses

The travel time from the Airport of Heraklion to your destination can be very long. In summer the busses can be full, so you might need to wait for hours to find a space in the public bus. A great cheap alternative is to buy a transfer bus ticket directly to your hotel. The transfer busses are a cheap alternative to taxi’s. Click on the button below to find available busses from the airport to your hotel. 

 

Heraklion International Airport (HER), also known as Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, is the busiest airport in Crete and a key entry point for visitors. One of the most affordable and convenient ways to reach Heraklion city center and other parts of the island is by using the public bus system. With regular services and budget-friendly fares, public buses are an excellent transportation choice for tourists.

 

Buy Tickets in Advance – Tickets are cheaper if bought at kiosks near bus stops. If you buy on the bus, expect to pay a slightly higher price.

Validate Your Ticket – Always validate your ticket when entering the bus to avoid fines.

Have Small Change – Drivers may not accept large bills, so carry coins or small denominations.

Check Schedules in Advance – Buses run frequently in summer but less often in winter. Visit the KTEL website or check at the airport kiosk for updated timetables.

Hold Onto Your Luggage – Buses can get crowded, so keep an eye on your bags, especially during peak travel hours.

Using public buses from Heraklion Airport is a cost-effective and simple way to explore Crete. Whether heading into the city or traveling further, following these tips will make your journey smooth and stress-free.