Iraklion Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport (HER) is 4 km east of the city centre and serves direct flights from most major European cities, plus connections via Athens. It is one of the busiest airports in Greece in summer and receives charter flights from across northern Europe. A taxi to the city centre costs around €15; local bus line 1 runs to Lions Square for €1.20.
Ferries connect Iraklion with Piraeus (Athens) daily, an overnight crossing of about 8–9 hours. The ferry terminal is at the eastern end of the old harbour. ANEK Lines and Minoan Lines both operate this route; a standard cabin berth is worth the premium for an overnight journey.
From Hania and Rethymno in western Crete, KTEL buses run frequently along the national road (about 2.5 hours from Hania, 1.5 hours from Rethymno). The bus station is in the harbour area, a short walk from the city centre.