Heraklion Ferries

The port of Heraklion plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by 6 ferry companies, Heraklion serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Heraclio, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Heraklion with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as SeaJets, Minoan Lines, ANEK Lines run regular services from Heraclio, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Heraklion offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Heraklion is well-connected to mainland Greece and other islands via regular ferry services from Piraeus (Athens), with journeys typically taking 7-9 hours depending on the vessel type. The city also hosts an international airport with direct flights from major European cities and Athens (35-minute flight). Once in Heraklion, the ferry terminal is conveniently located near the city center, with local buses and taxis readily available for transport between the two. For travelers arriving by car, several parking facilities are available near the port area, though it's advisable to book in advance during summer months when spaces fill quickly.

Nestled on the northern coast of Crete, Heraklion blends ancient history with modern Mediterranean charm. As the island's capital and primary ferry port, this bustling city serves as the perfect entry point to explore Greece's largest island. Visitors arriving by sea are greeted by the imposing Venetian fortress guarding the harbor, setting the stage for a journey through millennia of civilization layered within the city's winding streets and sun-drenched plazas.

Heraklion enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. The prime visiting window falls between May and October, when temperatures hover comfortably between 22-30°C and ferry services operate at their highest frequency. July and August bring peak tourist crowds and higher prices, making June and September ideal months for balancing good weather with more breathing room. Spring visitors might catch the vibrant Easter celebrations, while October offers pleasantly warm sea temperatures for swimming combined with fewer tourists. Winter travelers will find a more authentic local atmosphere, though some tourist facilities may be closed and ferry schedules reduced.

Heraklion serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Aegean's treasures by ferry. Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and breathtaking caldera views, can be reached in just 2 hours by high-speed ferry. The cosmopolitan island of Rhodes, home to a stunning medieval old town, connects via a scenic 12-hour overnight journey. Closer to home, day trips to neighboring Cycladic islands like Ios and Naxos offer pristine beaches and traditional Greek island charm within a 3-4 hour sailing. The port also provides convenient connections to Athens and Thessaloniki on the mainland, making Heraklion a strategic base for island-hopping adventures throughout the eastern Mediterranean.

Just a short distance from the ferry terminal lies the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, housing the world's finest collection of Minoan artifacts including the famous Bull-Leaper fresco. History enthusiasts shouldn't miss the legendary Palace of Knossos, located just 5km south of the city, where the mythical Minotaur once roamed the labyrinth. Wander through the historic center to discover the impressive Venetian fortress of Koules, then sample authentic Cretan cuisine at traditional tavernas serving dakos (rustic bread topped with tomato and cheese) and tender lamb antikristo. The vibrant Heraklion Central Market offers a sensory feast of local products, from olive oil and honey to handcrafted souvenirs, perfect for experiencing daily Cretan life before or after your ferry journey.

Few visitors realize that Heraklion's impressive harbor walls, still visible today, were built by the Venetians in the 15th century using over 20,000 slaves and took over a century to complete. The city was the birthplace of El Greco, the renowned Renaissance painter who later made his name in Spain. Heraklion's name derives from Heracles (Hercules), with ancient myths suggesting the hero stopped here during his twelve labors. The modern port handles over two million passengers annually, making it one of Greece's busiest maritime gateways and a crucial link in Mediterranean sea routes for over 2,000 years.