Crete is one of the most popular family destinations in Greece, and Heraklion Airport is where most families arrive. Here is what you need to know about getting from the airport to your resort with children in tow.
The airport experience with kids
Heraklion Airport is a single terminal. It is not large, but during summer it gets crowded. With children, the key frustration is waiting. Passport control can take 20-40 minutes in peak season, and baggage reclaim is not fast. There are no dedicated family lanes.
The terminal has basic restroom facilities but no dedicated family or nursing rooms. If you need to change a baby, you will use the regular restrooms. There is a small cafe and shop area, but do not count on finding child-specific food or supplies.
Once through, the exit is straightforward. Trolleys are available for luggage, which helps when you are also managing a stroller and children.
The child seat question
Greek taxis do not carry child seats. This is a simple fact. If your child needs a car seat or booster seat (under 12 years or under 135 cm in Greece), a regular taxi will not have one.
Your options are:
- Bring your own travel car seat. Lightweight travel car seats exist for this purpose. You install it in whatever vehicle you take.
- Book a transfer with a child seat request. This is the most common solution. Transfer companies stock child seats and install them before pickup.
- Skip the car seat and accept the risk. Some parents do this for short trips. It is your call, but Crete's roads between the airport and resorts include winding mountain sections where a car seat matters.
Vehicle size matters
A family of four with two large suitcases, a stroller, and a car seat is too much for most standard taxis. Greek airport taxis are typically sedans (Toyota Corollas or similar). The trunk space is limited.
A pre-booked transfer lets you specify a minivan, which gives proper luggage space plus room for car seats without stacking bags on laps.
The distance factor
Many family-friendly resorts in Crete are 30-80 km from the airport:
- Hersonissos: 25 km, about 25-35 minutes
- Agios Nikolaos: 65 km, about 50-60 minutes
- Rethymno: 80 km, about 75-90 minutes
Practical tips for families
- Pack snacks and water in your carry-on. The airport has limited options and your kids will be hungry after the flight.
- Bring a lightweight stroller that folds compactly. Crete is stroller-friendly in resort areas but the airport journey requires compact gear.
- If your accommodation is far from the airport, consider whether the kids need a nap stop or toilet break en route.
- Request a child seat when booking your transfer. Specify the age and weight of your child so the correct seat type is provided.
- If you are renting a car for the rest of your holiday, consider getting a transfer for the first day and picking up the rental car the next morning. Managing car rental paperwork with tired children after a flight is unnecessarily stressful.
The bottom line for families
For families heading to Heraklion city, a taxi works if you have a travel car seat and manageable luggage. For families heading to resorts, a pre-booked transfer with a minivan and child seat is the practical choice. The small premium over a taxi buys comfort, space, and one less thing to worry about.