- Must visit
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Major archaeological museum presenting Minoan art, sculpture, jewellery and finds from Knossos and sites across Crete.
Flights from Athens to Crete (Island) depart on average 14 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at £29 but you can travel from only £20 by ferry.
There are 13 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 320 km distance in 50m. July is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 320 km |
Average flight duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £29 |
Flights per day 14 |
Direct flights 13 |
Fastest flight 50m |
First flight 0:05 |
Last flight 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 49 days |
Cheapest price
£52
Average price
£124
Fastest journey
50 m
Average duration
50 m
Flights per day
35
Distance
320 km
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) will cost around £124 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap flight tickets today for only £52.
Of the 35 flights that leave Athens for Crete (Island) every day 22 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct flights cover the 320 km distance in an average of 50 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 50 m .
The slowest flights will take 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FR 318
A3300
A3344
A3328
A3336
A3336
A3344
A3334
A3332
A3328Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Athens to Crete (Island) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from £20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the ferry is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of £20, and a flight costs an average of £29.
Distance: 320 km
| Flight | Most popular Ferry |
|---|---|
£54 Average Price | £31 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 51m Average total duration 8h 51m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* |
1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular ferry company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Crete (Island) flights for tomorrow, Tuesday 25 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A3300 | 6:35 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 7:30 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ250 | 6:45 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 7:40 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ280 · GQ101 | 6:50 Athens International Airport | 14h30 | 21:20 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ210 | 7:10 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 8:00 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ620 · GQ600 | 7:15 Athens International Airport | 17h15 | 0:30 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ380 · GQ560 | 7:25 Athens International Airport | 13h00 | 20:25 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
A3332 | 7:55 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 8:45 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3304 | 8:00 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 8:55 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3306 | 10:00 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 10:55 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ382 · GQ560 | 10:50 Athens International Airport | 9h35 | 20:25 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
A3308 | 11:25 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 12:20 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3338 | 11:25 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 12:15 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3314 | 13:25 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 14:20 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3334 | 14:45 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 15:35 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ212 | 15:45 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 16:40 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3318 | 16:50 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 17:45 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ560 · GQ384 | 17:10 Athens International Airport | 3h15 | 20:25 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ384 · GQ562 | 17:10 Athens International Airport | 24h15 | 17:25 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ214 | 17:25 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 18:15 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ254 | 17:30 Athens International Airport | 1h00 | 18:30 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ101 · GQ282 | 17:55 Athens International Airport | 3h25 | 21:20 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
A3336 | 18:05 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 18:55 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
FR 318 | 18:20 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 19:15 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ388 · GQ562 | 19:00 Athens International Airport | 22h25 | 17:25 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ602 · GQ620 | 19:10 Athens International Airport | 5h20 | 0:30 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
A3320 | 20:15 Athens International Airport | 1h00 | 21:15 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ284 · GQ101 | 20:35 Athens International Airport | 25h15 | 21:50 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ216 | 20:55 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 21:45 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ256 | 21:10 Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 22:05 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
A3322 | 21:50 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 22:40 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ620 · GQ606 | 21:55 Athens International Airport | 23h55 | 21:50 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
A3344 | 22:30 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 23:20 Chania International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
GQ560 · GQ390 | 23:35 Athens International Airport | 24h40 | 0:15 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
GQ390 · GQ562 | 23:35 Athens International Airport | 17h50 | 17:25 Heraklion International Airport | 1 change | |
A3328 | 23:45 Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 0:35 Heraklion International Airport | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare ferry and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Discover the best of Crete (Island) — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Crete (Island) trip today.
Major archaeological museum presenting Minoan art, sculpture, jewellery and finds from Knossos and sites across Crete.
Modern museum in Chania tracing Cretan history from prehistory to modern times through ceramics, mosaics and carved objects.
Well-curated museum in Vori exploring traditional Cretan life, crafts and social history through strong displays and local detail.
Atmospheric old quarter with Venetian lanes, harbour walks, shops and historic buildings that reward slow exploration.
Lively waterfront promenade in Heraklion lined with sea views, harbour activity and access to the Koules fortress.
Elegant old harbour district in Rethymno with narrow streets, coloured facades and an easy route between the port and Fortezza.
Dakos is a Cretan barley rusk topped with tomato, mizithra or feta, olive oil and oregano. It is a staple meze that showcases the island’s olive oil and produce.
Gamopilafo is a creamy rice dish cooked in rich meat stock, traditionally served at weddings. It is one of Crete’s signature celebratory foods.
Antikristo is lamb slow-roasted around an open fire with only salt. This ancient shepherds’ method is strongly associated with mountainous Crete.
Well-known Heraklion restaurant serving refined Cretan and Greek cooking in an elegant but relaxed setting near the historic centre.
Established seafront fish taverna in Rethymno, popular for fresh seafood, classic meze and harbour views.
Casual local favourite in Chania for traditional Cretan plates, grilled meats and hearty portions in a simple setting.
Moderate for a Greek island. Rooms, tavernas and buses are fair value, but resort areas, car hire and peak summer stays cost more than mainland Greece.
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafés if service is good.
Official public transport app
Heraklion International Airport -> Lions Square, Heraklion
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Crete (Island) by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Crete (Island), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Athens to Crete (Island) flights use the Athens International Airport to Heraklion International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Athens and Crete (Island) airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Athens International Airport is 4 km from Athens city centre. Public transport options include:
Athens International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport for 45 minutes. ATMs are located throughout the airport, including arrivals and departures areas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Athens International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Athens International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need