About Heraklion Airport
One of the largest airports in Greece, Heraklion Airport – named after Nikos Kazantzakis, an eminent Greek author – is ideally located close to the center of Heraklion, about 4 km away from it, in the area of Alikarnassos. Therefore it constitutes a nice base for exploring the city of Heraklion and nearby charming areas.
Heraklion airport operates throughout the year, although it is busier in the summer, since thousands of tourists choose to arrive on the superb island of Crete by air to spend their holidays. At the airport you will find a plethora of services, such as shops with a variety of products, restaurants to dine in, currency exchange services and any other service that a first timer would need to enjoy his/her holidays on Crete to the fullest.
Car hire at Heraklion Airport with Panavia Trust is the ideal choice when you are thinking of exploring the island of Crete without any delays, since you can pick up your desired car rental just after your arrival in Crete.
The convenient location of Heraklion Airport, combined with Panavia Trust’s excellent customer service, will help you enjoy a stress-free car hire experience at Heraklion Airport and across the island of Crete.
Do not waste any time, book your car rental with us prior to your arrival on the island of Crete and let us help you get the vehicle that will really satisfy your needs in terms of transportation around Crete.
Why Choose Our Car Hire at Heraklion Airport
Looking for reliable, affordable, and stress-free car hire at Heraklion Airport? Panavia Trust has been serving travelers arriving at Heraklion International Airport (HER) for years, offering top-quality vehicles and exceptional service. Here is why thousands of visitors choose us every season:
- Meet & Greet service directly at Heraklion Airport arrivals – no shuttles, no waiting
- No hidden fees – fully transparent, all-inclusive pricing
- Full insurance coverage with a zero excess option for total peace of mind
- Free cancellation up to 48 hours before your arrival
- 24/7 roadside assistance across the entire island of Crete
- Wide fleet selection – economy, family cars, SUVs, automatic vehicles & 7-seaters
- Free additional driver and complimentary baby/child seats on request
- Unlimited mileage on all rentals – explore Crete without limits
- Brand-new vehicles – our fleet is regularly renewed for maximum safety and comfort
Whether you are searching for cheap car hire at Heraklion Airport, an automatic car rental, or a spacious family SUV, our team will help you find the perfect vehicle for your trip.
Browse our full fleet here or contact us for a personalized quote.
How to Pick Up Your Car Hire at Heraklion Airport
We have made the car hire pick-up at Heraklion Airport as simple and fast as possible. Here is exactly what to expect when you land in Crete:
Step 1: Land at Heraklion International Airport (HER)
Once your flight lands at Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, follow the signs to the arrivals area.
Step 2: Collect Your Luggage
Pick up your luggage from the baggage claim and head toward the exit.
Step 3: Meet Our Representative at the Arrivals Hall
Our friendly representative will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. No need to take a shuttle or walk to a remote parking lot.
Step 4: Quick Paperwork (only 5 minutes)
We will verify your driver’s license and rental documents – the entire process takes just 5 minutes.
Step 5: Drive Away in Your Rental Car
Your vehicle is parked right next to the airport. Get in, adjust your seat, and start your Cretan adventure!
Pro Tip: Book your car hire at Heraklion Airport in advance to guarantee the best rates and vehicle availability, especially during the peak summer season.
Car Hire Heraklion Airport Fleet
At Panavia Trust we offer a wide and modern fleet to cover every traveler’s needs. All our vehicles are available for pick-up directly at Heraklion Airport.
Economy Cars
Ideal for couples and budget-conscious travelers. Fuel-efficient and easy to park in narrow Cretan streets.
Family Cars
Comfortable, spacious vehicles perfect for families exploring Crete.
SUVs & 4×4
The best choice for adventurous travelers wanting to explore mountain villages and off-the-beaten-path beaches.
Automatic Cars
Effortless driving for those who prefer automatic transmission.
7-Seaters & Minivans
Perfect for large families or groups of friends traveling together.
Not sure which category fits you best? Contact our team and we will recommend the ideal vehicle for your trip.
Driving from Heraklion Airport – Top Destinations in Crete
One of the biggest advantages of car hire at Heraklion Airport is the freedom to explore Crete at your own pace. Below you will find the most popular destinations and how long it takes to reach them by car:
| Destination | Distance from HER Airport | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Heraklion City Center | 5 km | 15 min |
| Knossos Palace | 9 km | 15 min |
| Chersonissos | 25 km | 30 min |
| Agios Nikolaos | 65 km | 1h 05min |
| Elounda | 70 km | 1h 10min |
| Matala Beach | 75 km | 1h 20min |
| Rethymno | 80 km | 1h 15min |
| Chania | 140 km | 2h 15min |
Driving along Crete’s northern coast is easy and straightforward, thanks to the well-maintained national road (E75) that connects all major cities and resorts.
Planning to drive to another region? Check our other car rental locations across Crete.
Car Hire at Heraklion Airport – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does car hire at Heraklion Airport cost?
Prices for car hire at Heraklion Airport start from as low as €25 per day for an economy car during the low season. Rates vary depending on the vehicle category, rental duration, and time of year. The earlier you book, the better the price.
Can I pick up my rental car directly at Heraklion Airport?
Yes! Our representative will meet you at the arrivals hall of Heraklion International Airport (HER) and hand over your vehicle right next to the terminal – no shuttle required.
What documents do I need for car hire at Heraklion Airport?
You will need:
- A valid driver’s license (held for at least 1 year)
- Your passport or ID card
- A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name
- Your booking voucher
Is there a minimum age for car hire at Heraklion Airport?
The minimum age for renting a car with us is 21 years old. Some vehicle categories (SUVs, premium cars) may require a minimum age of 23 or 25. A young driver fee may apply for drivers under 25.
Can I drop off the car at a different location in Crete?
Yes, we offer one-way rentals between several locations in Crete, including Chania Airport, Heraklion Port, and major resorts. A small one-way fee may apply.
Is full insurance included in the car hire at Heraklion Airport?
All our rentals include basic insurance (CDW) by default. We also offer Full Coverage with Zero Excess as an optional upgrade for complete peace of mind.
Do I need to pay a deposit when picking up the car?
For full coverage rentals, no deposit is required. For basic coverage, a refundable security deposit is held on your credit card upon pick-up.
Can I book a baby or child seat?
Yes, baby seats, child seats, and booster seats are available free of charge upon request. Please mention this in your booking.
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