Flights to Crete 2026: HER vs CHQ Airports Explained.
Which Crete airport should you fly into? Heraklion (HER) vs Chania (CHQ), airlines, transfer times and when to fly open-jaw.
Crete has two main international airports:
Heraklion (HER)
Best for Knossos, central/east Crete, Elounda. Largest flight network.
Chania (CHQ)
Best for west Crete beaches, Samaria, Balos, Elafonissi.
Open-jaw tip
Fly into one, out of the other, and rent a car one-way — the classic Crete road-trip move.
Transfers
See airport transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
HER or CHQ for first visit?
CHQ if beaches/gorges are priority; HER if Knossos and east Crete matter more.
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