Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Heraklion to Athens. While takeoff favors the right for Cretan coastal views, the landing approach to Athens is significantly more visually rewarding on the left, with the Saronic Gulf, Mount Hymettus, and the Athenian basin providing dramatic geography. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.

During takeoff from Nikos Kazantzakis (HER), sit on the Right side for the best views. Heraklion typically departs eastbound (Runway 27 is primary). Right-side seats face north toward the Cretan coast and the Aegean Sea, with clear views of the northern shoreline and the transition from land to water. Left seats would see the southern Cretan interior and mountains receding inland. Notable sights include: Aegean Sea (north), Cretan coastline near Heraklion, Mount Ida/Psiloritis (distant southwest, snow-capped in winter), Dia Island (small island visible offshore to the northeast).

When landing at Athinai (HEW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Athens approaches typically use Runway 21L/21R from the east. Left-side seats descending toward Athens face south and southwest, offering direct views of the Saronic Gulf, the Athenian basin, and Mount Hymettus. Right seats would see the northern approach corridor over less distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf (water body, prominent and extensive), Mount Hymettus (eastern rim of Athens basin, distinctive rocky ridge), Acropolis and central Athens (visible as urban density in the basin), Mount Penteli (northern horizon, often hazy).

The flight from Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) to Athinai (HEW) takes Approximately 50-55 minutes.

The flight path crosses the Aegean Sea northwestward. At midpoint (roughly 25 minutes out), the Cycladic islands become visible below—Mykonos, Delos, and Rhenia appear as small rocky masses scattered across the sea. The water transitions from deeper blue near Crete to lighter blue-green over the shallower Aegean. The Turkish coast remains visible on the eastern horizon throughout the flight. As the aircraft approaches Athens, the Peloponnese appears on the left (western) horizon, and the Athenian basin gradually fills the view ahead.