her.flights Heraklion Airport

Car hire at Heraklion Airport

Crete is the one Greek island where a car is close to essential. The distances are mainland distances (Chania 140 km, Elafonisi 200 km, the south coast over the mountains), the KTEL coaches cover only the main axis, and the best beaches and villages are at the end of small roads. Heraklion Airport is the island’s biggest rental location by far.

The international desks are in the arrivals hall; their cars, and those of the many Cretan companies, are in lots across the road or a short shuttle away. Local firms are often cheaper and more relaxed about gravel roads, which matters here.

Rental companies at Heraklion Airport

Expect a queue at the desks after each summer arrival wave; having the booking voucher, licence and credit card ready shortens it. Late charter arrivals should confirm the pick-up hour with local firms.

  • Avis / Budget
  • Hertz
  • Sixt
  • Europcar
  • Enterprise / Alamo / National
  • Cretan companies (many), meeting customers outside arrivals or at their own lots nearby

Booking tips

  • Full damage waiver is worth it on Crete: gravel, goats and narrow village streets scratch cars
  • Check whether unpaved roads are allowed; Balos and some south-coast beaches are reached on gravel
  • One-way rentals to Chania Airport are common and let you cross the island without driving back
  • Book weeks ahead for July and August; automatics sell out first
  • Licences issued outside the EU/EEA need an international driving permit

Driving from the airport

The airport sits on the national road (E75) that runs along the north coast. Turn east for Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda; west, skirting the city, for Rethymno and Chania. For Matala and the south coast, head into the city and follow signs for Mires and Phaistos over the ridge. The national road is fast but has slow trucks and impatient overtaking; on Crete, slower drivers pull onto the hard shoulder to let others pass, and you are expected to do the same.

Frequently asked questions

Which car rental companies are at Heraklion Airport?

Avis, Budget, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar and Enterprise have desks in the arrivals hall, and dozens of Cretan companies meet customers outside or at lots a short shuttle away. Cars are collected across the road from the terminal.

Do I need a car on Crete?

For anything beyond a single resort, yes. Crete is 260 km long, the coaches only follow the main road and the best beaches are down small roads. Book early for July and August and consider a one-way rental ending at Chania Airport.

See also

Prices and timetables are indicative and change seasonally. Confirm before you travel.