Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport

Plateia Daskalogianni Airstrip occupies a small paved section within the tree-shaded square of the same name in central Heraklion. The airstrip functions primarily as a landing point for light aircraft, helicopter tours, and occasional private charters, providing a uniquely central access point to Crete's capital. The surrounding square is a cool, quiet oasis under a canopy of plane trees, a stark contrast to the bustling streets just metres away. Despite its modest size, the airstrip's location makes it a convenient entry for visitors who want to step directly into the heart of the old city.

Getting There

The airstrip is located at Plateia Daskalogianni, approximately 500 metres from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and a 10-minute walk from the Venetian harbour. From Heraklion International Airport (HER), take a taxi or bus to the city centre; the journey takes about 15 minutes by taxi. From the central bus station, the square is a 10-minute walk east along 25th August Street. The airstrip is not served by commercial airlines; access is by pre-arranged charter or sightseeing flights only. For pilots, the airstrip's coordinates are 35°20′15″N 25°08′10″E, and prior permission is required to land. The surrounding pedestrian streets can be narrow, so a short walk from a nearby car park (such as the one at Eleftherias Square) is necessary.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal is a single-storey building on the northern edge of the square, painted white with blue trim. Inside, passengers will find a small check-in counter, a waiting area with wooden benches, and a basic restroom. There are no shops or food outlets within the terminal itself, but the square's surrounding cafes and souvlaki shops are steps away. Departure procedures are informal: check-in opens 30 minutes before the scheduled flight, and passengers walk directly to the aircraft across the paved area. Security is minimal—a bag inspection and passport check—so arrive prepared. The atmosphere is unhurried, with the sounds of the square's fountains and birds drifting in through open windows. On hot days, the terminal's air conditioning is a welcome relief, though it can struggle during peak hours. The busiest times, according to local operators, are Monday at 9 am, Tuesday at 6 pm, Wednesday at 6 pm, and Thursday at 1 pm—periods when multiple tour flights may be scheduled.

Plateia Daskalogianni and Heraklion

Plateia Daskalogianni is named after Ioannis Vlachos (Daskalogiannis), a Cretan shipbuilder and leader of the 1770–1771 revolt against Ottoman rule. The square's centrepiece is his statue, which depicts him in determined pose. The story of his capture and death—he was flayed alive by the Turks—adds a sombre note to the peaceful square. But the square itself is anything but grim: tall plane trees provide dense shade, keeping the area noticeably cooler than the surrounding streets even in the height of summer. Benches line the paths, and locals gather here to chat, read, or enjoy takeaway souvlaki from the shops along one side. On the opposite side stands the modern courthouse, a landmark of Heraklion's legal district.

Heraklion itself is a city of layers. The Venetian walls, the Koules fortress at the harbour, and the Archaeological Museum (housing the Minoan treasures of Knossos) are all within walking distance. The city's market street, Odos 1866, buzzes with vendors selling olives, cheese, herbs, and leather goods. The cuisine is robust: dakos (Cretan rusks with tomato and mizithra), kalitsounia (cheese pies), and freshly caught grilled fish are staples. For nightlife, the old town's narrow alleys off Korai Street fill with tavernas playing Cretan music. A short drive or taxi ride brings you to Knossos Palace, the ancient Minoan site that draws visitors from around the world. The airstrip's central location means that a layover of just a few hours can include a visit to the palace or a stroll through the old market.

Practical Information

The airstrip operates only on specific days and times: Monday through Thursday, with varying peak hours. It is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. There is no fixed phone number or website; bookings are made through tour operators in Heraklion or via private charter companies. For those landing here, the square's cafes provide reliable free Wi-Fi. One concrete piece of advice: if you arrive during the busiest time (Monday 9 am or Tuesday/ Wednesday 6 pm), expect a short queue at the terminal. Arrive 15 minutes early and grab a coffee from the café opposite—it will make the wait feel shorter.