Heraklion Port (Heraklion)

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Heraklion Port (Heraklion) Information

Call Centre:+302152154000

Address:

Heraklion Port
Heraklion, Crete, 712 02, Greece

Port Latitude and Longitude:
UN/LOCODE: GRHER

Lat: 35.34300

Lon: 25.14300

Located in the heart of Crete's capital, Heraklion Port is the island's main seaport and one of the busiest maritime hubs in Greece. It is the primary destination for large overnight ferries from Piraeus, operated by companies like Minoan Lines and Anek-Superfast, and serves as a key link to the Cyclades. As a major hub for passenger and cruise ship traffic, the port provides immediate access to the city and is the gateway for visitors exploring the Palace of Knossos.

Getting to and from Heraklion Port

By Taxi

The main taxi ranks are located at the passenger terminals. When large overnight ferries from Athens arrive, the area becomes extremely busy, and finding a taxi can involve a wait.

A pre-booked transfer with Aegean Taxi is the most popular way to ensure a seamless connection from the port.

Your driver will meet you as you disembark for a comfortable, fixed-rate journey to the city center, the airport, or resorts like Hersonissos.

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By Bus

The port is well-served by the local city bus network, with frequent routes to the city center and the airport. For travel to other regions of Crete, the main long-distance KTEL bus station is also located very close to the port.

This makes it a convenient and affordable hub for accessing the entire island.

You can find information on the KTEL Heraklion-Lasithi website: ktelherlas.gr

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By Car

To truly discover the vast and diverse landscapes of Crete, from ancient palaces to remote beaches, renting a car is the best choice. Numerous major car rental companies have offices in and around the port area.

Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore far beyond the city of Heraklion.

It is crucial to book your car rental well in advance, especially during summer, to secure a vehicle and the best possible rates.

By Catamaran (to other islands)

Heraklion Port is a major hub for island hopping, especially to the Cyclades. High-speed catamarans operated by companies like Seajets and Minoan Lines depart daily for Santorini.

This is the fastest and most popular way to combine a holiday in Crete with a visit to other famous Aegean islands.

Tickets should be booked well in advance as these routes are in extremely high demand.

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Heraklion Port terminal information

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picture of two boats on an island with mountains around

Ferries from Heraklion port to other locations

As the main gateway to Crete, Heraklion is a major hub for routes to Athens and the Aegean islands. The primary ferry connections are listed below.

Mainland Greece Port

Piraeus (Athens)

Cycladic Islands

Santorini
Mykonos
Paros
Naxos
Ios
Milos
Syros

Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes
Karpathos
Kasos

Heraklion Port Map

Heraklion Port

Map of Old Port

A map showing the layout of the Heraklion Old Port in Chora.

Heraklion Port Parking

Heraklion Port offers many public parking spaces available free of charge. These can be found in the designated parking spots around the main port building, and before entering the port.

Frequently asked questions about Heraklion Port

How do I get from Heraklion Port to my hotel?

The main options are getting the public bus to the city or resorts, renting a car, or taking a taxi. For a direct, door-to-door service that avoids the crowds, a pre-booked Aegean Taxi transfer is the most comfortable and popular choice for traveling across Crete.

Is it easy to get a taxi at Heraklion Port?

As one of Greece's busiest ports, the taxi rank can be very chaotic, especially in the morning when overnight ferries arrive. Long queues are common, and you may face a significant wait for an available taxi.

How much is a taxi from the port to Hersonissos?

A taxi from the port to a hotel in Hersonissos typically costs between €30 and €40, with the fare varying by traffic. To ensure you have a set price before you travel, a pre-booked transfer with a service like Aegean Taxi offers a fixed, all-inclusive fare.

Should I pre-book my Heraklion port transfer?

Yes, pre-booking is the best way to ensure a smooth arrival in Crete. It allows you to bypass the chaotic taxi queues, guarantees a fixed price for your journey, and ensures a vehicle will be waiting for you. A service like Aegean Taxi also monitors your ferry.