Do You Need to Pre-Book?
The Short Answer: No
Pre-booking is not necessary at Heraklion Airport. Taxis are always available at the official taxi stand, operating 24/7 to serve arriving passengers.
You can simply walk out of the arrivals terminal, find the taxi stand, and take the first available taxi in the queue. It's straightforward and hassle-free.
When Pre-Booking Makes Sense:
- Peak summer season (July-August) when queues can be longer
- You're traveling with young children and need child safety seats
- Large group requiring multiple vehicles or a minivan
- You prefer the convenience of a driver waiting with your name
- Very late night or early morning arrivals (though taxis still available)
- You want a fixed price known in advance
- Business travel requiring professional service
Walk-Up Taxi Service
How It Works
1
Exit Arrivals
Walk through the main exit doors after collecting your luggage
2
Find Taxi Stand
Turn right and look for the yellow taxi signs
3
Join Queue
Wait in line if there are other passengers ahead of you
4
Board Taxi
Take the first taxi and tell the driver your destination
✅ Advantages
- No advance planning needed
- No booking fees
- Immediate service (usually)
- Flexible - take taxi when ready
⚠️ Considerations
- May wait 15-30 minutes in peak season
- No guaranteed child seats
- No name board waiting for you
- Price not confirmed until journey starts
Pre-Booking Options
If you prefer to arrange your transport in advance, several options are available:
📱
Online Platforms
Book through online transfer services and comparison sites that offer airport pickups.
- Compare prices easily
- Read reviews
- Instant confirmation
- Pay online securely
📞
Phone Booking
Call local taxi companies or transfer services directly to arrange pickup.
- Speak to someone directly
- Ask questions immediately
- Negotiate for groups
- Personalized service
🏨
Through Your Hotel
Many hotels can arrange airport transfers for guests.
- Convenient one-stop booking
- Driver knows your hotel
- Often competitive prices
- Hotel can assist if issues
What to Expect
With Walk-Up Service
At the Taxi Stand:
You'll see a line of yellow taxis. During quiet times, you can board immediately. During busy periods, expect to wait 5-30 minutes depending on arrival volume.
Getting In:
The driver may help with luggage. Tell them your destination address or hotel name. Ensure the meter is turned on before departure.
The Journey:
Watch the meter for the fare. Most drivers are friendly and may offer local tips. Payment is usually at the end of the journey.
With Pre-Booked Transfer
At Arrivals:
Look for your driver holding a sign with your name at the arrivals hall exit. They'll be waiting in a designated meeting area.
Meet & Greet:
The driver will introduce themselves, help with luggage, and guide you to the vehicle. Premium services may wait inside the terminal.
Fixed Price:
The price is agreed in advance, so there are no surprises. Payment terms were arranged during booking (pre-paid or cash on arrival).
Tips for a Smooth Experience
📝 Have Address Ready
Write down or save your hotel address and postcode on your phone to show the driver.
💶 Get Cash
Use the ATM at the airport to withdraw euros before taking a taxi, just in case they don't accept cards.
📱 Save Numbers
If pre-booking, save the transfer company's phone number in case of delays or issues finding them.
✈️ Flight Info
When pre-booking, always provide your flight number so the driver can track delays.