Heraklion (HER) vs Chania (CHQ): Comparing Crete's Airports
Crete has two main airports — Heraklion (HER) in the centre-east and Chania (CHQ) in the west — and which you fly into can save a lot of driving. The right choice depends on where you are staying on the island. Here is how Heraklion compares with Chania so you can pick the closest gateway.
Heraklion vs Chania: which airport?
As a rule, fly into Heraklion for central and eastern Crete, and into Chania for the west. Heraklion is the larger, busier airport with more routes and year-round flights; Chania is smaller but well connected in summer. Picking the airport nearest your resort cuts your transfer time and cost.
Where Heraklion (HER) is best
Heraklion suits stays in Heraklion city, Knossos, the northern resorts of Hersonissos, Malia and Stalis, and the east around Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. It is also the practical choice for exploring central Crete and has the widest flight network, so fares and timings are often better.
Where Chania (CHQ) is best
Chania is the closer airport for western Crete — Chania town, the beaches of the west such as Balos and Elafonisi, and the Samaria Gorge. Rethymno, roughly midway, is reachable from either airport, though usually a little closer to Chania.
Distances at a glance
- Heraklion city: at HER’s doorstep (~5 km); far from CHQ (~140 km)
- Hersonissos / Malia: close to HER (~25–35 km)
- Rethymno: ~80 km from HER, a bit less from CHQ
- Chania town / west coast: close to CHQ; ~140 km from HER
Size and facilities
Heraklion is the second-busiest airport in Greece and handles more airlines and destinations, which usually means more flight choice. Both are single, manageable terminals; for what is inside HER, see the terminal guide. A new, larger Heraklion airport is being built at Kastelli to replace HER in the coming years.
Which should you choose?
Match the airport to your base: HER for the centre and east, CHQ for the west. If your resort sits in the middle, compare flight times and prices to each — the saving on a shorter transfer can outweigh a slightly pricier flight. See the transport guide for onward travel from HER.
Frequently asked questions
Should I fly to Heraklion or Chania?
Heraklion for central and eastern Crete; Chania for the west. Choose the one nearest your resort.
How far is Chania from Heraklion Airport?
About 140 km by road — roughly a 2 hour 15 minute drive.
Which airport is bigger?
Heraklion — it is the second-busiest in Greece with more routes than Chania.
Which is best for Rethymno?
Either works; Rethymno is roughly midway, usually a little closer to Chania.
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