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Heraklion is the entry point for most of Crete, and the practical questions boil down to the airport, the ferry port and the old town, all within about 6 km of each other. This FAQ answers the things travellers actually ask, from taxi prices to tipping. See our best time to visit Heraklion guide for when to come, and the main Heraklion travel guide for the full picture.
Heraklion Travel Tips: Getting There and Around
Heraklion International Airport (IATA: HER), officially Nikos Kazantzakis, sits about 4 km east of the centre near the Karteros coast. A taxi into town costs about €15 to €20 and takes 15 minutes, and the public bus runs every 20 to 30 minutes for about €2. The ferry port is a 20-minute walk from Lions Square, with overnight ferries to Piraeus (Athens) taking about 9 hours. If you want to stay near the port or the airport for an early departure, see our where to stay in Heraklion guide, and for the lay of the districts, our Heraklion neighborhoods page.
Heraklion Travel Tips: Money, Visas and Tipping
Greece uses the euro, and cards are accepted almost everywhere in the city, though small tavernas and kiosks prefer cash for amounts under €10. ATMs cluster around Lions Square and the airport arrivals hall, and banks charge €2 to €3 for foreign-card withdrawals, so withdraw larger amounts at once. Greece is in the Schengen zone, so UK and US passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Tipping is not compulsory: round up a taverna bill by 5 to 10 percent and hand taxi drivers the small change. If you are visiting in the wetter months, check our Heraklion weather by month page before packing.
Heraklion Travel Tips: Safety, Health and Practicalities
Heraklion is safe by European standards, with the usual caution around the bus station at night and on crowded streets in August. Tap water is safe to drink in the city, though many visitors prefer bottled water for taste. Pharmacies are numerous, marked by a green cross, and staffed by English-speaking pharmacists. Once the logistics are sorted, use our things to do in Heraklion guide to plan your days and our Heraklion events and festivals page to catch a local event.
Suggested Hotels in Heraklion
Galaxy Iraklio Hotel
A five-star in the city’s elegant district, about ten minutes’ walk from the centre, with two restaurants, a free wellness centre and a large freshwater pool. Best for travellers who want resort facilities without leaving the city. Check rates and availability
Olive Green Hotel
A four-star design hotel in the shopping district, with a rooftop terrace and smart-home rooms a short walk from Lions Square. Best for visitors who want a modern, central base at mid-range prices. Check rates and availability
Atrion Hotel
A three-star about 150 metres from the Historical Museum, with free internet and comfortable rooms near the waterfront. Best for budget sightseers who want a quiet, affordable bed close to the old town. Check rates and availability
