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Book a cheap car rental at Heraklion Airport (HER)
Planning to explore Crete by road? Search, compare cheap Herkalion Airport car rental with VIP Cars from trusted suppliers, have a wider choice of vehicles and book the one that fits best with your travel plans. Whether you are planning a beach holiday, a road trip, or a longer stay, you can easily book your vehicle in Crete and start your journey directly from Heraklion Airport.
As the main gateway to Crete, HER Airport is the preferred pickup location for many visitors arriving in Greece. Its convenient location provides easy access to some of the island’s most popular destinations like Agios Nikolaos, Rethymno, Chania, Elafonissi Beach, Balos Lagoon, and the historic Palace of Knossos.
Crete is the largest Greek island and having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to discover popular attractions at your own pace, including places that are difficult to reach by public transport. A Heraklion Airport rental car remains one of the most convenient ways to experience everything Crete has to offer.
Where is the car rental center at Heraklion Airport (HER)?
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On-airport location
Many leading suppliers including Hertz, Sixt, Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget have rental desks in or near the Arrivals Hall at Heraklion Airport, so travelers can pick up their vehicle after they land.
After completing the paperwork and collecting the keys, walk to the designated parking area located just outside the terminal, which is only a short distance away. For example, SIXT’s parking area is directly opposite the Arrivals Hall, across the road.
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Off-airport location
Some providers such as Centauro, and others operate from nearby off-airport locations. In this case, after collecting your luggage, follow the meeting instructions in your booking voucher and proceed to the designated pickup point outside Arrivals, where a shuttle bus or supplier representative will take you to the rental office.
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After-hours pickup
Most major suppliers at HER Airport - SIXT, Europcar, Hertz, and Avis offer after-hours pickup, usually on request. You generally need to inform the supplier about your pickup time with flight details so they can arrange the pickup accordingly.
After landing, proceed to the rental desk or meeting point mentioned in your voucher. Depending on the supplier, after-hours pickup is handled through online check-in. If the supplier operates from an off-airport location, a shuttle transfer may be arranged instead.
Complete details regarding the exact pickup location, shuttle instructions, rental terms, and after-hours availability along with 'after-hours fee’ (varies by supplier) will be mentioned in your Rental Confirmation Voucher.
Where to return a rental car at Heraklion Airport (HER)?
On-airport location
Most suppliers at HER Airport have dedicated return areas near the terminal or at their nearby rental office. Simply follow the 'Car Rental Return’ signs as you approach the airport, and park the vehicle in the designated area for handover.
Off-airport location
For off-airport suppliers, the vehicle is returned to the supplier’s local rental desk, which is usually the same as the pickup location. Once the vehicle is handed over, the supplier generally arranges a complimentary shuttle service to the terminal.
For example, Centauro, Europcar, and Surprice Car Rental require renters to drop the car at its off-site parking facility before heading to the Heraklion Airport’s departure area.
After-hours return
Most companies including Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise offer after-hours return service through a secure 'Drop-Box’ facility if you are returning the car outside the supplier's operating hours.
In this case, park the vehicle in the designated return area and deposit the keys in the drop-box provided. The exact location of the drop-box and return instructions are usually mentioned in your Rental Confirmation Voucher.
Popular car types rented at Heraklion Airport
From scenic coastal drives to road trips across the island, VIP Cars provide a wide choice of rental options at Herkalion Airport based on different group sizes and travel plans. Popular car types rented at the airport are -
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Economy (most popular)
The most booked option for travelers visiting Crete. Popular models such as the Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo, and Hyundai i10 are particularly convenient for exploring cities such as Heraklion, Hersonissos, and Agios Nikolaos, where narrow streets and limited parking are common. Their fuel efficiency and compact size make them well-suited for couples, solo travelers, and anyone planning to spend most of their time exploring towns, beaches, and nearby attractions.
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SUVs (best for scenic drives)
A popular choice for visitors planning to discover more of Crete beyond the main tourist areas. Models such as the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage provide extra space and comfort for journeys to destinations such as Balos Lagoon, Elafonissi Beach, and the island’s mountainous interior. Many travelers choose SUVs for longer itineraries with scenic coastal roads and countryside routes.
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Minivans/Vans (for families/groups)
For family holidays and group travel, minivans and larger vans offer the space needed for both passengers and luggage. Vehicles such as the Opel Vivaro and Peugeot Traveller are frequently booked by travelers visiting places like Chania and Rethymno. The additional seating capacity makes them a practical option for big groups.
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Luxury (summer travel)
Luxury vehicles appeal to travelers looking for a more premium driving experience during their stay in Crete. Premium models such as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4 are often chosen for coastal getaways around Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and other upscale resort areas. With enhanced comfort and advanced features, luxury cars are well-suited for scenic drives and relaxed island touring.
Note: Automatic car rentals at Heraklion Airport are highly popular during peak season (June to September) in Crete so, book early for better prices and more choices.
Best car rental deals available at Heraklion Airport (HER)
Car rental providers at Heraklion Airport offer flexible deals for different travel plans, whether you are staying for a few days, exploring multiple cities, or planning a longer trip across Crete.
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One-day/Short-term rentals (daily/weekend/weekly)
This is a convenient option for travelers looking to make the most of a short stay in Crete. Visitors often book a car for a day trip from Heraklion to attractions such as Knossos Palace, Agios Nikolaos, or the beaches along the northern coastline. Compact and economy cars are particularly popular for these journeys, offering easy parking in busy tourist areas and good fuel economy.
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Long-term rentals (weekly/monthly)
Well-suited for travelers spending several weeks or even months in Crete. This option is popular among remote workers, extended holidaymakers, and visitors planning to explore the island at a relaxed pace. Weekly and monthly bookings offer better value than short-term deals, particularly for those staying in Herkalion, Chania, or Rethymno.
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Last-minute rentals (same day bookings)
Last-minute rentals can be a practical option for spontaneous travel plans or unexpected itinerary changes. Same-day bookings depend on the availability, so making an advance booking is a good idea, especially during summer season (June to September).
One-way car rental from Heraklion Airport
Travelers who want to explore Crete without returning to their original pickup location opt for one-way rental cars from HER Airport. This type of rental is particularly useful for visitors planning island-wide road trips, arriving in one part of Crete and departing from another, or travelers who wish to maximize their sightseeing time.
Some of the most popular one-way routes are:
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Heraklion to Chania (~140 km, 2 - 2.5 hours)
This is one of the most frequently booked routes, connecting Crete’s two largest cities via the Northern Road Axis of Crete (BOAK) and allowing travelers to explore multiple regions of the island.
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Heraklion to Rethymno (~80 km, 1 - 1.5 hours)
A popular choice for visitors heading to Crete’s charming Venetian Old Town, beaches, and nearby mountain villages.
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Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos (~60 km, 45 to 60 minutes)
Common among travelers staying along the island’s eastern coastline or exploring attractions such as Lake Voulismeni, nearby beaches, and the coastal towns of eastern Crete.
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Heraklion to Elounda (~70 km, 1 - 1.5 hours)
Favored by visitors planning a relaxing stay in one of Crete’s most upscale coastal destinations. This route is especially popular among travelers heading to luxury resorts, waterfront hotels, and boat excursions to Spinalonga Island.
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Heraklion to Sitia (~130 km, 2 - 2.5 hours)
Ideal for travelers exploring eastern Crete, including quieter beaches, traditional villages, and other attractions such as Vai Beach, the Toplou Monastery, and the scenic coastline around the Sitia Geopark.
When searching for one-way deals, simply select your preferred drop-off location and you will have vehicle options pop up on your screen. Choose the one that fits best with your travel needs. Also, one-way charges are applicable depending on the supplier and car type.
Cross-border car rental at HER Airport
Cross-border travel with a rental car from the Heraklion Airport is generally restricted because Crete is an island. Even taking the car to mainland Greece or other islands via ferry is not allowed unless you have a written permission.
However, some suppliers may allow travel to specific EU countries like Germany, France, Italy but require prior approval, cross-border fee, and you may get limited vehicle options.
About Heraklion Airport and passenger facilities
| Address: | Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER), Iraklio, Crete, 716 01, Greece |
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| IATA Code: | HER |
Heraklion International Airport, also known as Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, is the main gateway to Crete and one of the busiest airports in the country, especially during the summer travel season. Located 5 km east of central Heraklion, the airport provides convenient access to popular holiday destinations across the island, such as Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, and Rethymno.
The airport has a single passenger terminal for domestic and international flights and serves millions of travelers each year. It connects Crete to several European cities through seasonal and regular flights, offering easy access to attractions like Knossos Palace and the old Venetian harbor in Heraklion.
Passenger facilities at Heraklion International Airport
- ATMs and currency exchange
- Duty-free shops
- Cafes and restaurants
- Free Wi-Fi
- Payphones
- Luggage storage service
- Car rental desks
- Parking areas
- Tourist information counters
Best places to visit near Heraklion Airport with a rental car
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Palace of Knossos: One of Crete's most famous archeological sites, located at a short drive from the Heraklion Airport. It’s a convenient first stop for travelers interested in the island’s Minoan history.
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Heraklion City & Archaeological Museum: Explore the city center, local markets, harbor area, and one of Greece’s most important museums, all within easy reach of the airport.
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Archanes Village: A traditional inland village known for local wineries, historic streets, and a quieter side of Crete, ideal for a short scenic drive.
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Ammoudara Beach: A long sandy beach west of the city, popular for a relaxed seaside stop soon after arriving.
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Agia Pelagia: A coastal village with calm bays, tavernas, and scenic roads, suitable for a half-day drive from Heraklion.
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CRETAquarium: Located east of the airport, this is a popular family-friendly stop and easy to combine with nearby beach visits.
VIP Cars’ tips to rent a car at Heraklion Airport (HER)
- Summer is the busiest season, especially from June to September, so booking your car early will help you secure better prices, wider choices at the airport, particularly for automatic cars and SUVs.
- Compact or economy cars are highly recommended for driving around Heraklion and Crete, where roads and parking spaces are narrow.
- If you are planning to explore beaches like Balos Lagoon, Elafonissi Beach, Vai Beach and remote areas in Crete, consider choosing an SUV for added driving comfort and better road visibility on hilly and coastal roads.
- Most car rental companies at Heraklion Airport require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Ensure to carry a valid card with sufficient funds in it.
- The minimum age requirement to rent a car at the Heraklion Airport usually starts from 21 years, though it may vary depending on the supplier and car type. Young drivers under 25 are required to pay an additional Young Driver Surcharge.
- When renting a car in Greece, cross-border travel is only allowed with the supplier’s approval. If you plan to drive your vehicle from Greece to another country such as Albania, many suppliers will require prior written permission, while some may not allow it. It’s best to confirm cross-border policies with the supplier before booking.