Private transfer from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos, Crete
Your private transfer from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos offers a comfortable and reliable way to reach the southern coast of Crete. The journey covers approximately 110–120 km and usually takes around 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route across the island. This route also serves nearby coastal areas such as Analipsi, Pefki, and Diaskari, known for their peaceful surroundings and beautiful beaches.
Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, your professional driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. From the very first moment, you receive a warm welcome and are escorted directly to your vehicle. As a result, you begin your journey without waiting times or unnecessary delays, allowing you to relax immediately after your arrival.
Total Time
0h 0m
Distance
0km
Childseats
Free for your children
Bottled water
Complimentary for every passenger
The transfer from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos follows a scenic route across Crete, heading east toward Agios Nikolaos before continuing south through the island’s diverse landscape until reaching the Libyan Sea. As you leave the northern coastline behind, the scenery gradually changes, revealing a different side of Crete with mountain views and peaceful countryside along the way. This route also passes near coastal areas such as Analipsi, Pefki, and Diaskari, known for their quiet beaches and natural beauty.
This private, door-to-door service allows you to travel comfortably without waiting times or shared transport, ensuring a smooth and efficient arrival. As a result, you can relax and begin your stay in Makry Gialos with complete peace of mind from the very first moment.
Select a vehicle that suits your needs
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Why to Choose Route C?
5 Stars Rated
Local transfer in Crete
Premium Vehicles
Luxury Mercedes Fleet
Professional Drivers
Local Drivers
Client Focused
Personalized Service
Fixed Prices
No Hidden Fees
Makry Gialos
A Scenic Journey to Makry Gialos
Your transfer to Makry Gialos is more than just a drive. It is your first real introduction to the diverse landscapes of Crete. As you leave Heraklion behind, the route begins along the northern coastline. You pass through Karteros and Kokkini Chani, where the sea views set a beautiful tone for the journey.
As you continue east, you pass the wider areas of Hersonissos and Stalis, visible from the road, before reaching Malia. Soon after, the route gradually turns inland. At this point, the scenery begins to change and reveals a quieter, more authentic side of the island.
Changing Landscapes Along the Way
As the journey unfolds, you pass through a variety of scenic landscapes. One of the highlights is the area of St. George Selinari, where you may spot eagles flying above the hillside. From there, the surroundings open into green hills filled with olive trees and fertile valleys.
In addition, you pass cultivated land, including the well-known banana greenhouses of the region. At the same time, the road moves through mountainous terrain and elevated passes. These sections offer wide views across Crete’s changing landscape.
Gradually, the atmosphere becomes more authentic. Small villages and untouched areas reflect the traditional character of the island. As you approach the southern side, the scenery softens, and the deep blue of the Libyan Sea comes into view.
Arriving in Makry Gialos
Soon, you reach the wider area of Makry Gialos, known for its long sandy beaches and relaxed coastal setting. The light becomes brighter, and the pace noticeably slower. As a result, the atmosphere feels calm and welcoming from the very first moment.
Makry Gialos offers a spacious and peaceful environment compared to busier destinations. Therefore, it is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and tranquility by the sea. In addition, the area provides easy access to nearby highlights such as Ierapetra, as well as natural spots and traditional villages worth exploring.
A Smooth Start to Your Stay
Ultimately, this is not just a transfer. It is the beginning of your Makry Gialos experience. With Route C, every journey is designed to be comfortable, reliable, and tailored to your needs. As a result, you can start your stay in Crete in the best possible way.
How to get from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos or Makrigialos?
🚌 By Bus
There is no direct bus connection from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos. First, you need to travel to Ierapetra. Then, you continue with a second bus toward Makry Gialos.
The ticket from Heraklion to Ierapetra costs €13.20. After that, the bus from Ierapetra to Makry Gialos costs €3.70. In some cases, you may also need to go from the airport to the main bus station in Heraklion before starting your trip.
However, connections are not always well aligned. As a result, waiting times in Ierapetra can be long. In some cases, the delay may reach up to 4 hours.
Because buses follow fixed schedules and make many stops, the total journey can exceed 6 hours. Therefore, this option is not ideal after a long flight or when traveling with luggage.
🚖 By Taxi
A taxi from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos usually costs from €150 for a sedan and €210 for a minivan. Taxis are available outside the arrivals area, so you can leave the airport immediately.
However, prices may vary if they are not agreed in advance. In addition, during busy periods, availability can be limited. Larger vehicles are also not always easy to find, especially for groups.
🚗 By Rental Car
Renting a car gives you flexibility during your stay. You can explore Crete at your own pace and visit different places.
However, the route to Makry Gialos includes curves and elevation changes. For this reason, extra attention is required, especially if you are not familiar with the roads.
In addition, local driving habits may differ from what you are used to. Therefore, it is best to drive carefully and at a comfortable pace, particularly after a long journey.
🚐 By Private Transfer
A private transfer is the most comfortable and reliable way to travel from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos. Prices with Route C start from €135 for a sedan and €160 for a minivan.
You benefit from door-to-door service, fixed pricing with no hidden costs, and a professional driver who monitors your arrival and waits for you at the airport.
With Route C, you travel in a premium Mercedes vehicle of your choice. As a result, you avoid waiting times and reach your destination smoothly, enjoying a relaxed start to your stay in southern Crete.
Frequently Asked Questions
We monitor all flights and adjust our services accordingly. If there is any change to your flight, please inform us as soon as possible so we can be aware in advance. In the case of a delay, we will wait for you at the airport at no extra charge and adjust the meeting time to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival.
If your flight is cancelled and you need to travel the following day, please notify us so we can reschedule your transfer. We understand that flight disruptions are beyond your control, and we will always do our best to find the best possible solution for any change.
All our transfer prices are fixed, with no hidden or additional charges. The price you see is the price you pay.
Please note that the booked vehicle is based on the luggage information provided at the time of reservation or after contacting us. If significantly more luggage is brought than declared and it cannot fit safely in the vehicle, an additional vehicle may be required. In such cases, any extra cost for the additional vehicle would be the responsibility of the customer.
Yes. You may cancel or modify your transfer free of charge, provided that you notify us at least 24 hours before the first leg of your itinerary. In this case, the full amount will be refunded or your booking will be amended according to your new travel details.
If the cancellation occurs within 24 hours of the first leg, we can refund only the return transfer, provided that a round-trip booking was made. For changes (not cancellations) made within this 24-hour window, any modification must be requested at least 6 hours before the first leg of your itinerary.
In cases of force majeure or serious health issues, we will refund the full amount. We understand that unexpected situations can arise, and we always aim to handle such cases with fairness and understanding.
Your driver will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall holding a sign with your name.
If for any reason you cannot see your driver, please call or WhatsApp us at +306989482231 and we will assist you immediately.
Please make sure you exit through the same corridor where you collected your luggage, as there are two exits in the arrivals area.
Yes — absolutely!
This is our favourite part of what we do. Together, we will design the ideal itinerary for you and your travel companions, including any last-minute adjustments along the way. We will recommend the best places to visit while building your route, or we can decide spontaneously on the spot based on your mood and interests. Your experience is fully personalized — you lead the way, and we make it happen.
What our guests say
We had the absolute pleasure of spending five hours with George, our driver and guide from RouteC, during our recent visit to Crete—and it was truly unforgettable. George was not only incredibly knowledgeable about the island’s history, culture, and hidden gems, but he also tailored the experience perfectly to suit our age group and interests.
His driving was smooth and safe, allowing us to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. What really made the day special was George’s warm personality—he greeted us with a smile that never faded and made us feel welcome from the very start. His passion for Crete shone through in every story he shared, and his friendly demeanor made the entire journey feel like we were exploring with a longtime friend.
If you're looking for a guide who’s professional, personable, and truly invested in making your experience memorable, George is your guy. Highly recommended!
His van was spotless and spacious, perfect for our family of four. The ride felt more like a private tour than a transfer: we got local insights, great restaurant tips, and cold drinks to help us cool down after the flight.
It’s rare to find someone so reliable, friendly, and service-minded. Georg turned what could have been a stressful moment into a really pleasant experience. Thank you for that!
His car — a luxurious Mercedes Vito — was in perfect condition, spotless and very comfortable. During the ride, he offered us cold drinks and shared lots of interesting facts about Crete.
As a family with two kids, we felt completely safe and well taken care of. We highly recommend Georg to anyone visiting Crete and would book him again anytime!
