Heraklion Port Passenger Station Travel Essentials

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Heraklion in Summer
Credit: pexels.com, Heraklion in Summer

Heraklion Port Passenger Station is a bustling hub for travelers arriving in Crete by ferry. It's located on the north coast of the island, about 10 kilometers from the city center.

The port is easily accessible by bus or taxi, and there are also shuttle services available from the port to the city center.

To get to the city center, you can take bus number 12 from the port, which takes about 30 minutes. The bus fare is around 2 euros.

Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.

If this caught your attention, see: Port of Redwood City

Transportation

Getting to Heraklion Port Passenger Station is relatively easy, thanks to the city's well-connected transportation network.

The station is conveniently located near the city center, making it a great option for both locals and tourists.

Regular bus services connect the station to nearby towns and villages, with multiple departures throughout the day.

The bus station is also a hub for intercity buses, making it easy to travel to other parts of Crete.

Majestic view of Koules Fortress reflected in calm waters at Heraklion harbor during twilight.
Credit: pexels.com, Majestic view of Koules Fortress reflected in calm waters at Heraklion harbor during twilight.

The city's bus network is efficient and reliable, with buses running on a regular schedule.

From the station, you can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service to get to your destination quickly.

However, be aware that traffic in Heraklion can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your journey accordingly.

The nearest airport, Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, is also within easy reach of the station.

From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the station, which takes around 20-30 minutes.

The port itself is also easily accessible from the station, with a short walk or taxi ride.

Overall, getting to Heraklion Port Passenger Station is straightforward and convenient, making it a great option for travelers.

Getting to Destination

Getting to Heraklion Port can be a bit tricky, especially during summer when buses are crowded. Pre-booking a car through Welcome Pickups is a great option, costing just a little more than a regular taxi.

Credit: youtube.com, Heraklion, Crete. A stroll from the cruise port.

If you're not taking a car, the Blue local buses are a convenient and affordable option. They operate out of Bus Station A, which is a 6-minute walk from the ferry port, and depart every 10 minutes. The trip takes about 20 minutes and costs 2€ per person.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which will take about 10-15 minutes and cost around 15€. The taxi stand is located inside the port gates, across from the passenger terminal. If you have more than four people in your party, you'll need to take more than one taxi.

If you'd like a more personalized and hassle-free experience, consider booking a car service through Welcome Pickups. They operate 24 hours a day, speak English, and monitor ferry schedules in case of delays.

Bus Connections

Getting to Heraklion Port is just the beginning - now you need to get to your next destination. One convenient option is taking the bus, which is an affordable and convenient way to reach your desired location.

Credit: youtube.com, How To Find Bus Routes In Google Maps

The port is well-connected to the local bus network, with bus stations located in close proximity, making it easy for passengers to access various destinations across the island.

Multiple local bus lines traveling east stop at Heraklion Airport, which is a great option if you're heading to the airport. Buses depart every 10 minutes or so, and the trip takes about 20 minutes and costs 2€ per person.

If you have more than four people in your party, you'll need to take more than one bus, as they can only accommodate up to four passengers.

You can buy your ticket on board the bus, and buses operate from 6am to midnight.

How to Get

Getting to Heraklion Ferry Port can be a bit tricky, especially during the summer months when buses are crowded. Pre-book a car with Welcome Pickups to avoid the hassle.

If you're already at the port, you can easily walk to Bus Station A, which is located just 6 minutes away from the ferry port. From there, you can catch a Blue local bus to the Heraklion Airport, which operates every 10 minutes or so.

Scenic view of Heraklion marina with yachts and city buildings under a clear blue sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Scenic view of Heraklion marina with yachts and city buildings under a clear blue sky.

If you prefer a more direct and convenient option, consider booking a taxi or a car service with Welcome Pickups. Taxis are readily available at the port gates, but be aware that they can only accommodate up to four passengers.

Here's a quick comparison of your options:

Buses are an affordable and convenient option for reaching or leaving Heraklion Port, with bus stations located in close proximity to the port. You can catch a bus to various destinations across the island.

Foot passengers can travel on ferries from Heraklion with SeaJets, Minoan Lines, Cyclades Fast Ferries, Blue Star Ferries, and Anek Superfast. Just make sure to check the ferry schedules and book your ticket in advance.

Ferries from Heraklion depart from the main ferry port, which is opposite the Venetian Port and the famous Koules fortress. This dedicated ferry port is separate from where cruise boats dock in Heraklion.

Ferries to Crete

If you're planning to travel to Crete, you'll want to know about the ferry options from Heraklion. Foot passengers can travel on ferries from Heraklion with SeaJets, Minoan Lines, Cyclades Fast Ferries, Blue Star Ferries, and Anek Superfast.

Credit: youtube.com, Ferry terminal Heraklion

Ferries sail to Heraklion from various islands, including Anafi, Chalki, Sitia, Ios, Diafani, Karpathos, Kasos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Rhodes, Thira (Santorini), Syros, and Tinos.

If you're looking for the most popular ferry route from Heraklion, it's the Heraklion to Athens (Piraeus Port) crossing, which is provided by Minoan Lines, Blue Star Ferries, Anek Lines, SeaJets, and Anek Superfast.

Here are some of the ferry operators that provide routes from Heraklion to various destinations in Greece:

  • Minoan Lines
  • Blue Star Ferries
  • Anek Lines
  • SeaJets
  • Anek Superfast

Tickets and Schedules

You can find ticket kiosks for all ferry companies both inside the port's Passenger Terminal and next to the ship's departure point in Heraklion Port.

To plan your trip, check the ferry schedules. There are two or more daily ferries from Heraklion to Piraeus port in Athens, as well as ferries running to Athens' Rafina port, the Dodecanese, and the Cyclades islands.

For the most up-to-date schedule and route information, visit FerryHopper.com. It's also the easiest way to find ferries and book tickets in advance.

Tickets

Drone Shot of a Cargo Ship on Port
Credit: pexels.com, Drone Shot of a Cargo Ship on Port

Tickets can be found both inside and outside Heraklion Port.

To purchase tickets, head to the Passenger Terminal, where you'll find ticket counters for all ferry companies.

The ticket counters are conveniently located next to the ship's departure point, making it easy to grab your ticket before boarding.

If you're looking for a more personalized experience, consider visiting a travel agency in the vicinity of Heraklion Port.

Travel agencies offer ticket booking services and can help you plan your journey from start to finish.

Schedules

Schedules can be a bit confusing, but don't worry, I've got the lowdown.

There are two or more daily ferries from Heraklio to Piraeus port in Athens, as well as ferries running to Athens' Rafina port, the Dodecanese, and the Cyclades islands.

You can check the up-to-date schedule and route information on FerryHopper.com, which is also the easiest way to find ferries and book tickets in advance.

Minoan Lines operates ferries from Heraklio to Santorini, Milos, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, and Piraeus (Athens).

Credit: youtube.com, Discuss schedules and buy tickets

Anek Lines runs ferries from Heraklio to Sitia, Kasos, Karpathos, Chalki, Diafani, Rhodes, Anafi, and Santorini.

Blue Star Ferries and Seajets also offer ferry services from Heraklio, with Blue Star Ferries running to Piraeus and Seajets running to Santorini, Ios, Paros, Naxos, and Mykonos.

Golden Star Ferries operates ferries from Heraklio to Santorini, Ios, Naxos, Paros, Tinos, Mykonos, Andros, and Rafina (Athens).

Here's a quick rundown of the ferry operators and their routes:

  • Minoan Lines: Heraklio to Santorini, Milos, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, and Piraeus (Athens)
  • Anek Lines: Heraklio to Sitia, Kasos, Karpathos, Chalki, Diafani, Rhodes, Anafi, and Santorini
  • Blue Star Ferries: Heraklio to Piraeus
  • Seajets: Heraklio to Santorini, Ios, Paros, Naxos, and Mykonos
  • Golden Star Ferries: Heraklio to Santorini, Ios, Naxos, Paros, Tinos, Mykonos, Andros, and Rafina (Athens)

Ferry Cabin Availability

If you're planning to travel from Heraklion by ferry, you'll be happy to know that cabins are available on some ferry routes.

Operators that offer cabins on ferries from Heraklion include SeaJets, Minoan Lines, Blue Star Ferries, and Anek Superfast.

You can check our Deal Finder for the best option for you, as it allows you to compare prices and find the most suitable cabin for your needs.

Here are some ferry operators that offer cabins on ferries from Heraklion:

Passenger Terminal

Credit: youtube.com, Heraklion Port - New Cruise Terminal

The passenger terminal at Heraklion Port is a modern and well-equipped facility that offers a range of services to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

You can find a mini-market, duty-free shop, cafe, car rental, and ferry ticket counters, as well as luggage storage lockers and free Wi-Fi. The terminal is open from 8am to 10pm, so you can plan your visit accordingly.

There is also an information desk with free city maps, making it easy to navigate the area and plan your trip. Additionally, you can find an ATM and a taxi rank outside the terminal, providing convenient access to transportation options.

Here are some of the ferry companies that operate from Heraklion Port and allow foot passengers:

  • SeaJets
  • Minoan Lines
  • Cyclades Fast Ferries
  • Blue Star Ferries
  • Anek Superfast

Where to Get

If you're looking for a passenger terminal, you can find one at an airport.

Airports like JFK in New York or LAX in Los Angeles have large passenger terminals.

Some passenger terminals are also found at seaports, such as the Port of New York and New Jersey.

In some cases, passenger terminals are also located at train stations, like the Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

Passenger Terminal

Port of Rethymno
Credit: pexels.com, Port of Rethymno

The Passenger Terminal at Heraklion Port is a modern and well-equipped facility that offers a range of amenities to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Located inside the port gates at Pier II, the terminal is open from 8am to 10pm. You'll find a mini-market, duty-free shop, cafe, car rental, and ferry ticket counters, as well as luggage storage lockers, free wi-fi, an ATM, and an information desk with free city maps.

If you're looking for a bite to eat or a drink, you can head to the cafe or mini-market, or even grab a snack from the duty-free shop. The terminal also offers a convenient spot to store your luggage while you're exploring the port or waiting for your ferry.

Here are some of the facilities and services you can expect to find at the Passenger Terminal:

  • Mini-market
  • Duty-free shop
  • Cafe
  • Car rental
  • Ferry ticket counters
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free wi-fi
  • ATM
  • Information desk with free city maps

Information and Services

The passenger terminal at Heraklion Port spans an impressive 2,500 square meters, offering a wide array of services to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Credit: youtube.com, HERAKLION PORT

Inside the terminal, you'll find a mini-market and car rental services, providing convenient options for travelers. Ticket counters for all ferry companies operating at the port are also located within the terminal, ensuring easy access to ticket purchases or pickups.

During peak summer months, Heraklion Port can get quite busy, so it's essential to arrive in plenty of time before your ferry departure.

Parking & Rental

Parking and Rental at Heraklion Port are convenient options for travelers. The port is located along the Green National Road 90, a well-maintained highway that connects major cities along the northern coast of Crete.

To get to the port by car, drive west along the national highway if you're coming from Agios Nikolaos or the east, and then north towards the sea once you get to Heraklio. If you're coming from Rethymno, Chania, or other areas to the west, drive east along the national highway and follow the signs towards Heraklio, again heading north toward the sea.

Credit: youtube.com, High density Bicycle Parking and Rental Services

Heraklion Port provides plenty of short and long-term parking spots, located just to the west of Piers I and II. Handicapped parking spots are also available for those who need them.

If you're planning to rent a car, there are a few companies located near the port. However, there are more rental cars available at the Heraklion Airport, inside the Arrivals terminal. If you need an automatic shift, it's a good idea to pre-book your rental car, especially during peak summer months like July and August when they're often in short supply.

Services

If you're planning to travel to Heraklion, you'll be happy to know that there are several services available to make your journey smoother.

You can pre-book a private car service, like Welcome Pickups, which offers 24-hour operation, English-speaking drivers, and even guided tours and SIM cards.

To get around, you can rent a car inside the passenger terminal, which spans 2,500 square meters and has a mini-market and car rental services.

Credit: youtube.com, Information Service

If you're taking the ferry, you can buy your ticket at the ticket counter, or have it picked up for you.

Here are some of the ferry services available from Heraklion:

  • Heraklion - Athens (Piraeus) with Minoan Lines, Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Milos with Minoan Lines & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Karpathos with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Rhodes with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Santorini (Thira) with Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Kasos with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Sitia with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Mykonos with Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Ios with Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Naxos with Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Anafi with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Chalki with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Diafani with Blue Star Ferries
  • Heraklion - Paros with Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Syros with Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Tinos with SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Folegandros with SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Sifnos with SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Koufonissi with SeaJets
  • Heraklion - Katapola with SeaJets

Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat?

You can bring your pet on the boat with some ferry operators. For example, SeaJets and Minoan Lines allow pets on board from Heraklion.

Nearby

Just a short walk from the Heraklion ferry port, you'll find the city's rich history and culture waiting to be explored. Knossos, the largest and best-known ancient Minoan palace complex in Crete, is just 5km south of the port and easily accessible by bus or private guided tour.

If you're looking for a more leisurely experience, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is just a 12-minute walk from the port. Admission is half-price from November through March, making it an even more affordable option.

You can also visit the Koules Fortress, a 2.2km unshaded walk across the rampart from the port, or head to the Odos 1866 Open-Air Market, which is an 18-minute walk from the port and open from 8am-2pm Monday to Saturday.

Credit: youtube.com, Exploring Heraklion - Our Day in Port | #ThingstodoinHeraklion |

Here are some of the top attractions near the Heraklion ferry port:

  • Knossos: 5km south of the port, accessible by bus or private guided tour
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum: 12-minute walk from the port
  • Koules Fortress: 2.2km unshaded walk across the rampart from the port
  • Odos 1866 Open-Air Market: 18-minute walk from the port, open 8am-2pm Monday to Saturday

Taxis and Car Rentals

If you're looking for a convenient way to get to your destination, taxis are a great option at Heraklion Port. A taxi stand is located across from the passenger terminal inside the port gates, and taxis are generally readily available after the ferry arrives.

A taxi ride between Heraklion Port and the Heraklion Airport will take around 10-15 minutes and cost approximately 15€. If you have a larger group, keep in mind that taxis in Greece can only accommodate a maximum of four passengers.

For a more personalized and flexible mode of transportation, you can also consider renting a car. Several car rental options are available at the port, including major international companies like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar.

If you're planning to explore the island on your own, a rental car is a great way to go. With a rental car, you can discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations throughout Crete.

Things to Do Nearby

The Old Venetian Port of Chania Greece
Credit: pexels.com, The Old Venetian Port of Chania Greece

Heraklion Port is a great place to start your Cretan adventure, and there are plenty of exciting things to do nearby. You can easily spend a few days exploring the area and its many attractions.

The largest and best-known ancient Minoan palace complex in Crete is Knossos, located just 5km south of Heraklion Port. Admission is 15€, but you can save some money with a 16€ combo ticket to the Archaeological Museum.

Getting to Knossos is a breeze, with the #2 bus departing from the Port bus terminal every 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a private guided tour that will pick you up at the port or your hotel.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-visit, with excellent exhibits about the history of Crete and the Minoan civilization. Admission is half-price from November through March, making it an even more affordable option.

If you're looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, the Koules Fortress is an impressive Venetian citadel that's definitely worth a visit. Admission is just 2€, but be sure to bring water and sunscreen as it's a 2.2km unshaded walk across the rampart.

Worth a look: German Port Museum

Intermodal Container Stacked on Port
Credit: pexels.com, Intermodal Container Stacked on Port

For a more relaxed experience, the Odos 1866 Open-Air Market is a great place to browse for local souvenirs, try some fresh produce, and soak up the atmosphere. It's open from 8am-2pm Monday to Saturday.

If you're traveling with kids, the Natural History Museum of Crete is a great place to visit, with fun exhibits on current and past animal life and geography in Crete. Admission is a short 20-minute walk from the port.

Here are the top 5 things to do near Heraklion Port:

  • Knossos: The largest and best-known ancient Minoan palace complex in Crete (5km south of Heraklion Port)
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Excellent exhibits about the history of Crete and the Minoan civilization (12-minute walk from the port)
  • Koules Fortress: An impressive Venetian citadel with great views of the port (14-minute walk from the port)
  • Odos 1866 Open-Air Market: A great place to browse for local souvenirs and try some fresh produce (18-minute walk from the port)
  • Natural History Museum of Crete: Fun exhibits on current and past animal life and geography in Crete (20-minute walk from the port)

Photos and Address

The Heraklion Port Passenger Station is easily accessible by public transportation.

The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the station, making it convenient for travelers without a car.

You can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service from the airport or other parts of the city.

Photos

Photos of Heraklion Port are a great way to get a sense of the area. You can see passengers boarding a ferry at the port in one of the photos.

Dramatic Corfu cityscape featuring a vibrant rainbow over the harbor under overcast skies.
Credit: pexels.com, Dramatic Corfu cityscape featuring a vibrant rainbow over the harbor under overcast skies.

The port is relatively small, making it easy to find your ferry. Ferries arrive and depart along a fairly small strip of the port.

Photos of taxis waiting for passengers just steps from the ferries show how convenient it is to get around. Taxis wait for passengers right next to the ferries.

You can also see photos of taxi prices to different destinations around Crete. Prices are generally the same at the nearby marina as they are at the ferry port.

The article also includes photos of the local bus station, which is about an 8-minute walk from the ferry port. Buses from this station go to various destinations along the north coast of Crete.

Ferry ticket kiosks are also visible in the photos, where you can buy tickets just before departure. It's a good idea to book tickets in advance on FerryHopper.com, but if necessary, you can buy them at these kiosks.

Photos of the GDM Megaron hotel show its proximity to the ferry port. The hotel is about a 5-minute walk to the ferries and ticket kiosks.

Address

port with cranes
Credit: pexels.com, port with cranes

Heraklion Port Passenger Station is located at Leoforos Nearchou in Heraklion, Greece. The address is 713 06 Heraklion, Greece.

You can find the port at Leoforos Nearchou, which is a specific street in Heraklion, Greece.

Companies and Routes

Heraklion Port Passenger Station offers a wide range of ferry routes to various destinations. You can travel from Heraklion to Athens, Santorini, and other islands.

Some of the most popular ferry routes include connections to Piraeus, Anafi, Chalki, Sitia, Ios, Diafani, Karpathos, Kasos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Rhodes, Thira (Santorini), Syros, and Tinos.

Here are some of the most popular ferry routes from Heraklion Port:

  • How to get from Heraklion to Piraeus
  • How to get from Heraklion to Anafi
  • How to get from Heraklion to Chalki
  • How to get from Heraklion to Sitia
  • How to get from Heraklion to Ios
  • How to get from Heraklion to Diafani
  • How to get from Heraklion to Karpathos
  • How to get from Heraklion to Kasos
  • How to get from Heraklion to Milos
  • How to get from Heraklion to Mykonos
  • How to get from Heraklion to Naxos
  • How to get from Heraklion to Paros
  • How to get from Heraklion to Rhodes
  • How to get from Heraklion to Thira (Santorini)
  • How to get from Heraklion to Syros
  • How to get from Heraklion to Tinos

Companies Operating

The Heraklion Ferry Port is served by a variety of reputable ferry companies. These companies offer a range of vessels, from conventional ferries to high-speed catamarans.

Some of the major operators at the port include Aegeon Pelagos, Anek Superfast, Minoan Lines, Seajets, and Blue Star Ferries.

Blue Star Ferries, which is owned by Attica Group, recently took on the Anek company. This means that all Attica group ferries leaving Heraklion Port may soon sail under the Anek branding.

These companies cover various destinations such as Piraeus, Santorini, Rhodes, other Greek islands, and mainland Greece.

Charming view of a traditional Greek church by the Mykonos waterfront under clear blue skies.
Credit: pexels.com, Charming view of a traditional Greek church by the Mykonos waterfront under clear blue skies.

If you're planning a trip from Heraklion Port, there are several popular routes to consider. Some of the most popular ones include connections to Athens, Santorini, and other islands.

If you're looking to visit the Greek islands, you have a range of options. Heraklion Port offers routes to many of them, including Santorini, which is a must-see destination.

The ferry routes from Heraklion Port are numerous, but some of the most popular ones are listed below. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Heraklion to Athens
  • Heraklion to Santorini (Thira)
  • Heraklion to Ios
  • Heraklion to Rhodes
  • Heraklion to Mykonos
  • Heraklion to Naxos
  • Heraklion to Paros
  • Heraklion to Syros
  • Heraklion to Tinos

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do the cruise ships dock in Heraklion?

Cruise ships dock at Heraklion's large port, which is easily accessible by shuttle from the city.

Can you walk from Heraklion port into town?

Yes, walking from Heraklion port to the city centre is possible in about 10 minutes.

How far is Heraklion from the port?

Heraklion is 5km north of the port, making it easily accessible by public transportation or private tour.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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