About the Heraklion → London route
Heraklion to London Gatwick is a proper holiday route — just over three hours in the air, which honestly feels like nothing once you factor in a drink and a film. easyJet (U2) owns a big chunk of this market, so you're looking at a no-frills experience in both directions. It's overwhelmingly leisure traffic: Cretans visiting family in the UK, Brits heading home after a week in the sun, and a fair few London-based Greeks making the reverse trip for summer. Don't expect a business lounge crowd. This one's carry-on bags, window seats, and someone's kid kicking the seat.
Why travel from Heraklion to London?
London pulls Heraklion travelers for a surprisingly wide range of reasons. The Greek diaspora in London is massive — Finsbury Park and Wood Green have had Greek communities for decades, so family visits are a huge driver. But beyond that? London is genuinely one of the best cities on earth for museum-hopping without spending a penny. The British Museum, the Tate Modern, the Natural History Museum — all free. Cretans I've spoken to also rave about the food scene, specifically the range of Middle Eastern and South Asian restaurants that you just can't find back home. And for anyone with business ties between Greece and the UK post-Brexit, this route does a lot of quiet, practical work too.
Quick stats
- Distance: 2,679 km
- Estimated flight time: 3h 9m
- Operating airlines: BA, LS, U2, XR
- Direct route: yes
Practical tips for HER → LGW
Book shoulder season — May or late September — and you'll dodge both the peak summer fares and the grey London drizzle (well, mostly). Gatwick's South Terminal is where most of these flights land, and it's well-connected: the Gatwick Express gets you to Victoria Station in about 30 minutes, which is worth every penny after a long travel day. No visa required for Greek passport holders, but double-check your documents post-Brexit if you're staying longer than six months. If you're flying U2 or LS, read the baggage rules before you pack — checked luggage costs extra and the fees sting if you're caught off guard at check-in.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the flight from Heraklion to London Gatwick take?
The flight from HER to LGW takes approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes to cover the 2,679 km distance. This is a direct flight with no stops.
Which airlines operate the Heraklion to London Gatwick route?
Four airlines currently operate this route: British Airways (BA), Jet2 (LS), easyJet (U2), and Air Transat (XR). Flight availability may vary by season.
What is the best time of year to fly from Heraklion to London?
May and September offer the best balance of pleasant weather in Crete, fewer crowds than peak summer, and reasonable fares. April and October are also good alternatives if you prefer lower prices, though weather is more variable.
Do Greek citizens need a visa to travel to the United Kingdom?
Greek citizens do not need a visa for the UK and can enter with a valid passport for tourism or short visits. However, it's important to check current entry requirements as regulations can change.
What should I know about luggage and jet lag on this route?
Baggage allowances vary by airline—check your specific carrier's policy before booking. Jet lag is minimal since the UK is only 2 hours behind Greece, so most travelers adjust within a day or two.