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Earlier Than Expected: Greece’s Largest Island Kicks Off Tourism Season

Earlier Than Usual: Direct Flights to the Greek Islands Take Off as Crete Prepares for Visitors

Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK

The tourism season in Crete is opening earlier this year than in previous years.

Not only due to the spring weather that is already being felt in some of the islands but also thanks to early planning and growing demand, on March 26, 2025 - in just ten days, international direct flights from various destinations by many companies will begin to the islands.

The first international flights for the season to Crete will land at Heraklion Airport, including tourists from Germany, Poland, England, the Netherlands, and France. In addition to the Greek companies Aegean and Sky Express, Lufthansa, SWISS, EasyJet, Transavia to Amsterdam, and more will also begin direct flights to Heraklion.

The first flight from Tel Aviv to Heraklion for this season will be by Blue Bird and will take place on Sunday, March 30.

Following this, throughout the season, Arkia, Sundor Airlines, Aegean, and as mentioned, also Blue Bird and many more companies will operate on this route.

Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKPhoto: SHUTTERSTOCK

On routes from Tel Aviv to the second-largest airport in Crete, Chania, Israir and Ryanair are expected to operate in the upcoming season, but these are routes that will open towards the summer and not in the coming month. Israir is expected to open the route in mid-May while Ryanair in early June.

The expectation is for an increase in the number of tourists compared to the spring months in previous years. The forecasts indicate that Crete will continue to be a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

Alongside the stunning beaches, tourists in Crete can expect archaeological sites, traditional villages, and a rich local cuisine.

Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKPhoto: SHUTTERSTOCK

It is worth mentioning that Heraklion Airport, which is not considered particularly successful, is expected to move within about two years to its new location, relatively far from the city, with an innovative and advanced airport compared to the existing one.

Meanwhile, across Crete, preparations are being completed for the early reception of tourists compared to previous years with the renovation and upgrading of various attractions and hotels, intensive painting and repairs of the hospitality complexes, and preparing them for the arriving tourists.

tags: CreteTourismflights

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