Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) has a single passenger terminal that handles all flights, so getting around is simple: check-in and security on the way out, baggage reclaim on the way in, and everything on one compact site. This guide walks through the layout, the departure and arrival flow, and the facilities inside.
How many terminals does Heraklion Airport have?
One. All airlines and all flights — domestic and international — use the same terminal, so there is no inter-terminal transfer to worry about. The building sits on a single main level, which keeps walking distances short even at the busy summer peak, and makes it easy to manage with luggage or a pushchair.
Departures step by step
On the way out you arrive at the public departures hall, where the check-in desks, a cafe and a few shops are. After you check in and drop your bags, you pass through the central security screening into the airside departures area. From there you wait near your gate with access to the duty-free shop, other stores and several places to eat. In July and August the check-in and security queues can be long, so arrive within your airline’s recommended window.
Arrivals step by step
Arriving passengers clear passport control where it applies (for flights from outside the Schengen area), collect bags at the reclaim belts, and walk out into the public arrivals hall. From the door it is only a couple of minutes to the bus stop, the taxi rank and the car-rental desks, so onward travel is quick.
Airside: gates, shops and food
Past security you will find the boarding gates along with the shops and food outlets. Because HER is compact, the gates are a short walk from security, so you are never far from your flight. See our guides to duty-free shopping and food and drink for what is on offer, and the lounge guide if you want somewhere quiet to wait.
Facilities and services
- ATMs and currency-exchange counters
- Car-rental desks in the arrivals area
- Lost and found / baggage services
- Duty-free, souvenir stands and a small mini-market
- Cafes, snack bars and a restaurant
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Airport lounges airside
Money, Wi-Fi and charging
There are ATMs and currency exchange in the terminal, though rates at airport exchange counters are rarely the best — a bank card withdrawal or paying by card in town usually works out better. Free Wi-Fi covers the terminal, and there are charging points in the departures area, so you can top up devices before boarding.
Accessibility
The single-level layout and short distances make HER manageable for travellers with reduced mobility. Arrange assistance with your airline in advance so staff can meet you at the terminal and help through check-in, security and to the gate; the earlier you request it, the smoother it is.
Getting to the terminal
The airport is about 5 km east of Heraklion city centre. You can reach the terminal by city bus, taxi, pre-booked transfer, or car — the car park is a two-to-three minute walk from the doors (see the parking guide).
The new airport at Kastelli
A new airport for Heraklion is under construction inland at Kastelli and is intended to replace the current site in the coming years. Until it opens, everything here refers to the existing Nikos Kazantzakis terminal on the coast; we will update this guide when operations move.
Frequently asked questions
How many terminals are there at Heraklion Airport?
Just one, used by all flights, on a single level.
Is there Wi-Fi in the terminal?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Where are the shops and restaurants?
Mainly airside after security, with a cafe and small shops landside too.
Is there an ATM and currency exchange?
Yes, both are in the terminal, though airport exchange rates are rarely the best.
How early should I arrive?
Follow your airline’s advice; in peak summer allow extra time for check-in and security.