Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis transfer

HER lies right on the sea at the eastern edge of Heraklion, the largest city on Crete. The runway runs parallel to the shore, so planes approach low over the water and the terminal is only a few minutes from the main island road.

That road is the north coast highway, known locally as VOAK and signed as the E75. Almost every transfer from HER uses it: eastbound towards Hersonissos, Malia and Agios Nikolaos, or westbound past the city towards Rethymno and Chania. Long stretches are being upgraded, so expect occasional roadworks and lane changes, especially around the larger towns.

A standard private car suits one to three travellers with normal suitcases. Families with pushchairs, groups of friends and anyone travelling with golf bags or diving gear usually need a minivan, which takes up to about seven people with luggage. Larger vehicles can be requested for bigger groups.

Child seats can be added when you book; just give the age of each child. Please declare bicycles, diving equipment or other bulky items in advance so the provider sends a vehicle with enough space.

Crete's main holiday season runs from about April to October, with the heaviest arrivals in July and August, when many charter flights from the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Scandinavia and Poland land on the same afternoons and evenings. The arrivals hall and passport control can be crowded at those times.

Your driver follows your flight number, so a delay does not change the agreed price. Share the number when booking and keep your phone switched on after landing so the provider can reach you by call or WhatsApp.