- Must visit
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of Greece’s most important archaeological museums, especially for Minoan art and finds from Knossos and across Crete.
Flights from Athens to Crete (Island) depart on average 16 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by ferry.
There are 12 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 198 miles (320 km) distance in 49m. May is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 198 miles (320 km) |
Average flight duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€47) |
Flights per day 16 |
Direct flights 12 |
Fastest flight 49m |
First flight 12:05 AM |
Last flight 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 days |
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$134
Fastest journey
45 m
Average duration
49 m
Flights per day
22
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 traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) will cost around $134 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Of the 22 flights that leave Athens for Crete (Island) onWed, May 27, 21 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct flights cover the 320 km distance in an average of 49 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 45 m .
On Wed, May 27 the longest 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.
A3300
A3328
A3322
GQ214
GQ210
A3316
A3332
A3336
A3344
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 $28. 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 $28, and a flight costs an average of $58.
Distance: 198 miles (320 km)
| Flight | Most popular Ferry |
|---|---|
$108 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 53m Average total duration 8h 53m 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Athens to Crete (Island):
A ferry is $64 (€52) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Athens to Crete (Island) costing on average $108 (€87).
Other travel options to Crete (Island) take longer:
Ferry takes on average 8h 53m.
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Crete (Island) flights for today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A3318 | 4:50 PM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 5:45 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
GQ214 | 5:25 PM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 6:15 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3336 | 6:05 PM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 6:55 PM Chania International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3320 | 8:20 PM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 9:15 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
GQ284 · GQ101 | 8:35 PM Athens International Airport | 25h15 | 9:50 PM Heraklion International Airport | 1 transfer | |
GQ216 | 8:55 PM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 9:45 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
GQ256 | 9:10 PM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 10:05 PM Chania International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3322 | 9:50 PM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 10:40 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3344 | 10:30 PM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 11:20 PM Chania International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3328 | 11:45 PM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 12:35 AM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3300 | 6:35 AM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 7:30 AM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
GQ250 | 6:45 AM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 7:40 AM Chania International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
GQ280 · GQ101 | 6:50 AM Athens International Airport | 15h00 | 9:50 PM Heraklion International Airport | 1 transfer | |
GQ210 | 7:10 AM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 8:00 AM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3332 | 7:55 AM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 8:45 AM Chania International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3304 | 7:55 AM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 8:50 AM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3306 | 10:00 AM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 10:55 AM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3338 | 11:25 AM Athens International Airport | 0h50 | 12:15 PM Chania International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3308 | 11:25 AM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 12:20 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
GQ212 | 12:30 PM Athens International Airport | 1h00 | 1:30 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3314 | 1:25 PM Athens International Airport | 0h55 | 2:20 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
A3316 | 2:25 PM Athens International Airport | 0h45 | 3:10 PM Heraklion International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
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 — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Crete trip today.
One of Greece’s most important archaeological museums, especially for Minoan art and finds from Knossos and across Crete.
Well-curated museum on Cretan history from early Christian times to the modern era, with notable El Greco works and wartime exhibits.
Modern museum presenting finds from the ancient city of Eleutherna, offering strong context for one of Crete’s key archaeological sites.
Atmospheric historic quarter with Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek layers, ideal for wandering lanes, harbor views, and photography.
Famous panoramic viewpoint over Balos, one of Crete’s most shared social media landscapes.
Protected coastal area known for shallow turquoise water and pale pink sand, extremely popular for scenic visits.
Traditional Cretan barley rusk topped with grated tomato, mizithra or feta, olive oil, and oregano. A signature island meze highlighting local olive oil and simple farm ingredients.
Small Cretan pastries filled with local cheese or wild greens, served baked or fried. They are a beloved snack and festive treat across the island.
A celebratory Cretan rice dish cooked in rich meat broth, traditionally served at weddings. It is creamy, comforting, and deeply tied to local customs.
Well-known Heraklion restaurant focused on traditional Cretan cuisine, local ingredients, and a refined rustic atmosphere. Good choice for dakos, slow-cooked meats, and classic island dishes.
Established restaurant in Rethymno Old Town with an elegant courtyard setting and a creative approach to Cretan and Greek cooking. Suitable for a more upscale meal.
Popular Chania Old Town venue in a historic building, known for Greek and Cretan dishes in a warm, atmospheric setting. A reliable option for traditional specialties.
Moderate overall. Tavernas and buses are good value, while beach resorts and peak-season hotels cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is appreciated. Leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff EUR 1-2 if helpful.
Official public transport app
Heraklion International Airport, Heraklion -> Heraklion Central Bus Station, 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.

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