The port of Heraklion, also known as the Heraklion Ferry Port, is a unique and bustling hub that serves as the main harbor for travelers to and from the beautiful island of Crete It is composed of two distinct parts: the old Venetian harbor and the modern Heraklion Ferry Port
The Heraklion Port is not only a gateway for visitors, but also a major port for cargo shipments It is well-equipped to accommodate the needs of all who pass through its gates, with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants both within and surrounding the port Additionally, there are travel agencies and tour operators conveniently located nearby
As the third busiest port in Greece, the Heraklion Port welcomes approximately two million passengers and 300,000 vehicles each year It is home to two large and modern ships operated by the regular Cretan ferry lines, which depart for Piraeus on a daily basis The port also offers direct routes to other Aegean ports and the Port of Thessaloniki
Strategically located along Crete’s main highway, the Heraklion Port serves as a central point connecting the towns of Kissamos, Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, and Sitia along the island’s north coast It is also the starting point for the Heraklion Timbaki highway, linking the northern and southern coasts of Crete and providing access to popular destinations such as Messara, the Phaistos Minoan Palace, and Matala
Efforts have been made in recent years to modernize the port’s facilities, including the construction of a new 2,500 square meter passenger terminus This terminal offers a comfortable waiting area for passengers and also provides services such as luggage storage and wireless internet access
Ferries from the Minoan Lines depart from the Heraklion Port, offering routes to Piraeus, Thessaloniki Port, and Patras-Corfu-Igoumenitsa During the summer season, ferries depart for Piraeus twice a day with a travel time of seven hours The port is also served by ANEK Lines, with ferries departing for Piraeus at 9pm and arriving at 5:30am the following day
Located in the Heraklion region, the port is approximately 148 km from Chania Airport with a driving time of 2 hours and 14 minutes, and only 4 km from Heraklion Airport with a driving time of just 11 minutes With its convenient location, modern facilities, and numerous ferry options, the Heraklion Port is a vital and bustling hub for travelers to and from Crete
