Heraklion Airport to Malia

The nearest airport to Malia is Heraklion International Airport (HER), located about 32 kilometers west of the resort town. It’s the second busiest airport in Greece, welcoming millions of visitors every year, especially during the summer season. The airport has two terminals one for domestic and one for international flights. Inside, you’ll find cafés, duty-free shops, ATMs, car rental offices, and comfortable lounges where passengers can relax before or after their flight.

Malia lies on the northeast coast of Crete, famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lively nightlife. The town combines ancient history and modern tourism you can explore the Malia Minoan Palace ruins, enjoy a cocktail by the beach, or wander through the charming Old Town filled with traditional tavernas and cobblestone streets. For those who prefer adventure, nearby mountains and coastal trails offer scenic hikes with views of the Aegean Sea. Malia is an ideal destination for both party lovers and travelers seeking a relaxed seaside escape.

Photo by Evangelos Mpikakis on Unsplash

About the Airport

Official Name: Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER)

Location: Around 32 kilometers west of Malia, near the city of Heraklion, Crete, Greece.

Airport Facilities: Heraklion Airport has two terminals with clear signs in Greek and English. Inside, you’ll find restaurants, cafés, duty-free shops, luggage storage, and currency exchange offices. Car rental desks are available in both terminals, and free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the airport. 

How Do You Get from Heraklion Airport to Malia? There are several ways to reach Malia from Heraklion Airport by taxi, public bus, Heraklion Airport private taxi transfer, or rental car.

Taxi from Heraklion Airprot to Malia

Taxis are available outside Heraklion Airport’s arrivals area, and the distance to Malia is around 32 km, so the ride is relatively short compared to long-distance routes.
Prices are not always fixed, but most drivers follow standard local taxi rates. The journey usually takes 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Taxi Fare from Heraklion Airprot to Malia

The average Crete Heraklion taxi fare is around €50–€60.

Bus from Heraklion Airprot to Malia

There is no direct public bus from Heraklion Airport to Malia. However, regular buses run between Heraklion city center and Malia. To catch the bus, you first need to take a short taxi ride (around 15–20 minutes) from the airport to the Heraklion central bus station (KTEL). The bus journey to Malia takes approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on stops and traffic.

Bus Fare from Heraklion Airprot to Malia

Average ticket prices range from €3–€5 per person. Prices are generally stable, but may vary slightly depending on the bus company, season, and departure time. Early morning or late evening departures are typically less crowded, while buses during peak summer hours can be full.

First-class Airport Transfers at Crete Heraklion Airport

Private Transfers from Heraklion Airport to Malia

AirportTransfer.com provides reliable, safe, and comfortable taxi transfer services with professional drivers and luxury vehicles. Private transfers from Heraklion Airport are the most convenient ones when it comes to choosing a transportation option. Private airport transfers provided by AirportTransfer.com have much to offer a modern-day traveller. Firstly, Crete private chauffeur service offers you a ride full of comfort, safety, and privacy with zero worries. The drivers of airporttransfer.com are all well-equipped and qualified. 

The drivers can also speak English fluently, which makes everything easier since you will communicate without problems, unlike other transfer methods. You can book a transfer with one click from the website of your own choice. AT offers free cancellation for up to 48 hours and a 100% refund policy for a better experience while travelling from Hurghada Airport to Marsa Alam.

You can book your Crete Heraklion Airport taxi transfers online or using the app available on Google Play Store for airport transfers and Airport Transfer App Store.

Crete Bus Rental Service for Group Travel

Group Bus Transfers at Heraklion Airport

If you’re traveling to Malia or other resorts on Crete’s northeast coast with family, friends, or a tour group, booking Malia bus rental is one of the most practical and affordable options.
These spacious, air-conditioned buses are designed for comfort during the journey, offering plenty of room for passengers and luggage. Group bus transfers are especially popular for large holiday groups, tour clubs, or corporate trips, as they allow everyone to travel together and enjoy the scenic coastal views along the way to Malia. Booking in advance ensures a fixed price and hassle-free coordination, making it an easy and social way to start your Cretan holiday.

Malia Hotel Transfers

If you're arriving at Heraklion International Airport (HER) and want to skip the hassle of crowded buses or unreliable taxis, AirportTransfer.com offers comfortable premium hotel transfers to Malia, Crete. Your driver will meet you at the arrivals area, assist with your luggage, and take you directly to your hotel or resort.

We provide transfers to and from many of the most popular hotels and resorts in Heraklion and Malia, including:

Creta Maris Beach Resort, Malia Beach Hotel, Palladion Hotel, Kahlua Beach Resort, Anthemus Sea Beach Hotel & Spa, Aldemar Cretan Village, Ikaros Beach Luxury Resort & Spa, Sentido Pearl Beach, Aegean Melathron Hotel, and Malia Mare Palace Resort.