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Overview
Crete offers an epic canvas of snow-capped mountains plunging into turquoise coves, Minoan palace ruins, and gorges carved over millennia. The island's cuisine — rooted in wild herbs, local olive oil, and freshly caught seafood — has earned global acclaim. Exclusive villa retreats along the Elounda coast and the rugged beauty of Sfakia provide both serenity and adventure.
Gallery
Getting There
Heraklion Airport (HER) is the primary gateway with VIP handling and tarmac-to-car transfers. Chania Airport (CHQ) serves the western half of the island and is closer to many luxury resorts. Both accept private jets up to heavy category.
HER
Heraklion International Airport
Primary
CHQ
Chania International Airport
Secondary
From London
4h
From Athens
0.8h
From Dubai
5h
From Paris
3.5h
Why Fly Private
Crete's commercial airports are seasonal and heavily loaded with charter flights in summer. Private aviation offers year-round access and flexibility to fly into either Heraklion (east) or Chania (west) depending on your resort location. The island's remote luxury villas and boutique hotels are best reached without the chaos of packed commercial terminals.
Private Jet Experience
Arriving at Heraklion Airport or Chania Airport, your aircraft taxis to the general aviation area where a handler expedites passport control and luggage. A private Mercedes awaits on the apron, and within thirty minutes you are at your luxury resort on the northern coast, with the turquoise Cretan Sea stretching to the horizon.
Luxury Experiences
- Private guided tour of the Palace of Knossos at sunrise
- Luxury yacht day-trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa
- Olive oil estate tour with Cretan cooking masterclass
- Helicopter flight over Samariá Gorge
- Exclusive wine tasting in the Archanes vineyards
Where to Stay
Blue Palace Elounda
Daios Cove Luxury Resort
Abaton Island Resort & Spa
Practical Information
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Greek
Timezone
EET (UTC+2)
Visa
Schengen area — no visa needed for EU/US/UK citizens up to 90 days.
Tipping
5–10% at restaurants; service charge usually not included.
Emergency
112
Frequently Asked Questions
What airports do private jets use in Crete?
Heraklion Airport (LGIR) is the main airport on the eastern side, while Chania Airport (LGSA) serves the west. Both offer general aviation services for private jets.
How long is a private jet flight from London to Crete?
A private jet from London to Crete takes approximately 4 hours. From Athens the flight is just 45 minutes.
Can I island-hop from Crete to Santorini by private jet?
Yes, a private jet or charter turboprop from Crete to Santorini takes just 25–30 minutes, making it an effortless island-hopping addition to your Greek itinerary.
Best Time to Visit
May to October
Climate
Hot Mediterranean summers with virtually no rain from June to September. Mild winters along the coast.
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tip
Charter a private boat from Elounda to Spinalonga Island for a history-rich excursion without the crowds. The family-run tavernas in Margarites village serve the island's finest slow-cooked lamb.
Recommended Aircraft
For travel to Crete, we recommend the following Midsize Jet aircraft:
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