How to Get to Crete from US: The Complete Guide

Crete doesn’t have direct flights from the US, but reaching the island is straightforward with a connecting flight through major European hubs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through your best travel options so you can arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the beauty of Crete.

Step 1: Fly to a Major European Hub

There are no direct flights from the United States to Crete, so the first step is booking a flight to a major European city. Popular options include:

• • London (LHR)
  • Frankfurt (FRA)
  • Paris (CDG)
  • Athens (ATH)

These cities offer frequent connections to Crete via local airlines like Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Ryanair. When figuring out how to get to Crete from US, look for a U.S. departure city with strong transatlantic service—New York, Atlanta, Chicago, or Los Angeles are great starting points.

Step 2: Connect to Heraklion or Chania

Once you arrive in Europe, your next flight will be to either Heraklion (HER) or Chania (CHQ), the two main airports on Crete. Both are well-connected, and flights run daily, especially during peak travel seasons. If you’re staying with Holiways Villas, we recommend arriving in Chania, as many of our properties are located in and around this stunning region.

Alternative Option: Arrive by Ferry

Still wondering how to get to Crete from US if you’re already exploring mainland Greece? You can also take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Crete. Ferries arrive in both Chania (Souda Port) and Heraklion and offer an overnight experience with cabin options.

This is a slower but scenic way to start your journey, especially if you’d like to see more of Greece before arriving in Crete.

Plan Your Stay with Holiways Villas

Now that you know how to get to Crete, the next step is finding your perfect place to stay. At Holiways Villas, we offer a curated collection of luxury villas across Chania and beyond. From beachfront homes to mountain retreats, our properties are designed to help you relax, recharge, and experience authentic Cretan hospitality. Need help organizing your airport transfer or local travel? Our team is happy to assist with transportation, concierge services, and insider tips to make your trip seamless.

Conclusion

To conclude, understanding how to arrive in Crete from the US is the first step toward an unforgettable island escape. While there are no direct flights, a quick connection through Europe puts Crete well within reach. Whether you fly into Heraklion or Chania, Holiways Villas is here to welcome you with style and comfort.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there direct flights from the US to Crete?

No, there are currently no direct flights from the US to Crete. You will need to connect through a European hub like Athens, Frankfurt, or London.

What’s the fastest way to get to Crete from the US?

The quickest route is to fly from a major U.S. airport to Athens and then take a domestic flight to either Chania or Heraklion.

Is it better to fly into Heraklion or Chania?

Both airports are convenient, but if you’re staying in western Crete or booking with Holiways Villas, Chania (CHQ) is usually the best option.

Can I take a ferry to Crete instead of flying?

Yes. Ferries from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Crete run daily and are a great option if you’re already in Greece. Overnight routes are popular and comfortable.

Does Holiways Villas offer transportation from the airport?

Yes! We can arrange private transfers to your villa from Chania or Heraklion airports to ensure a smooth arrival experience.