✈ Heraklion Airport → Agios Nikolaos

📍 Route Map

🌍 About Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is the vibrant capital of the Lassithi regional unit, situated on the shores of the Gulf of Mirabello in eastern Crete, approximately 55 kilometres from Heraklion Airport. The transfer takes around 58 minutes via the E75 coastal highway, passing through Heraklion city outskirts, the resort areas of Karteros and Hersonissos, and the scenic coastline as it curves eastward. The approach to the town offers beautiful views of the gulf, with the distinctive outline of Spinalonga island visible in the distance.

The town is built around a unique saltwater lake called Voulismeni, connected to the sea by a short channel — a feature that gives Agios Nikolaos its most recognisable landmark. The lakeside promenade, lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques, forms the social heart of the town and is particularly lively during summer evenings. Agios Nikolaos has developed a reputation as one of Crete's most sophisticated small towns, attracting both international visitors and Cretan professionals who appreciate its blend of cosmopolitan atmosphere and genuine local character.

Beyond its famous lake, Agios Nikolaos offers excellent beaches within easy reach, including Ammoudi, Kitroplatia right in the town centre, and the sandy stretches of Almyros beach to the south. The town's archaeological museum holds an exceptional collection including the famous 'Goddess of Myrtos' figurine. The marina accommodates yachts and offers boat trips to Spinalonga, the sunken city of Olous, and the nearby island of Pseira. A private transfer from Heraklion Airport provides the most convenient and comfortable way to reach this charming town.

⭐ Premium Transfer Service

🚌 Other Transport Options

If a private transfer does not suit your plans, here are the main alternatives for travelling between Heraklion Airport and Agios Nikolaos:

• KTEL Bus (KTEL Lassithi) — KTEL Lassithi operates frequent intercity coach services between Heraklion Bus Terminal and Agios Nikolaos, with approximately 6–8 departures daily during summer. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Tickets are priced at approximately €7–9 per person. The bus terminal is located near Heraklion Port, not at the airport — travellers must first take the city bus (Line 2) from the airport to reach the KTEL terminal, adding 30–40 minutes to the total journey. Approximate cost: €7–9 per person.
• City Bus Line 2 — ASTIKO Line 2 connects Heraklion Airport to the city centre and port area, operating approximately every 20–30 minutes throughout the day. The fare is €1.20. From the port/KTEL area, passengers transfer to the Lassithi intercity bus for the onward journey to Agios Nikolaos. Total travel time via this route exceeds 2 hours. This is only practical for budget travellers with minimal luggage. Approximate cost: €1.20 airport to city.
• Standard Taxi — Taxis depart from the designated rank outside Heraklion Airport arrivals hall. A metered taxi to Agios Nikolaos costs approximately €70–90, depending on traffic and time of day. Night tariffs and public holiday surcharges apply. While taxis are available without prior booking, pre-arranging a transfer for the 55km journey is recommended, especially for families or groups with luggage, to ensure a smooth arrival. Approximate cost: €70–90 per taxi.
• Car Rental — Car hire desks from Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt and local operators are located in the arrivals hall of Heraklion Airport. Prices begin at €30–50 per day for small vehicles in the shoulder season, rising to €45–70 in peak summer. The drive to Agios Nikolaos follows the straightforward E75 highway eastward. Having a car is particularly useful if you plan excursions to the Lassithi Plateau, Spinalonga, or the Sitia wine region. Approximate cost: from €30/day.