Crete is the largest island in Greece, and one of the largest of the whole Mediterranean sea. Here, you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches and impressive mountainscapes.

Being a vibrant location, full of history and good weather, makes Crete a perfect location for international scientific, conferences. Crete offers a wide range of tourist attractions. Heraklion, the city that flourished under a multicultural influence throughout the centuries has a plethora of Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman structures to look out for. Agios Nikolaos, the capital town of Lassithi has a bottomless salt lake Voulismeni dominating the area. Delightful beaches and restaurants with a cozy atmosphere make an ideal place to relax while discovering the corners of this pictoresque Island. 

The village where the conference will be hosted is Chersonissos in the north part of Crete, located directly on the coast.



Venue and Accomodation

The MagnEFi conference 2022 will take place at the Albatros SPA & Resort Hotel in Chersonissos (1 Δαιδάλου Street, Chersonisos 700 14, Greece). The hotel is ideally located away from the hustle and bustle of the centre of the town, only 20m away from one of Crete’s popular beaches. Nevertheless, the world famous town of Hersonissos, known for its nightlife entertainment, is just a 5-minute walk.

Accomodation is not provided for participants, but there are many excellent hotels close to the conference venue. Invited speakers will be provided accommodation.

A select number of rooms will be available in the conference hotel. This is undoubtedly convenient since it will give the participants and speakers the opportunity for discussions and networking. Moreover this means that commuting is not required. More information to follow.

Travel information

The easiest way to get to Crete from any place around the globe is, of course, by plane. The main airport is the Candia-Nikos Kazantzakis Airport of Heraklion, the biggest town on the Island. A second airport is Chania (CHQ, https://www.chania-airport.com/). Heraklion airport is the closest to the hotel, so we advise traveling to this airport if you have the option. 

As the airport is just 20km from the conference venue, we suggest you take a taxi directly to the Hotel (cost around 30-40€, up to 4 passengers). You can book your transfer in advance using the following link: https://www.suntransfers.com/crete-heraklion-airport.

Busses between the airport and Chersonissos travel every hour. From Heraklion airport, the journey takes roughly 40 minutes. The bus stop closest to the hotel is “Chersonissos”. You can book in advance (although not advised / necessary) here: https://www.ktelherlas.gr/en/. From the bus stop, it is about a 30-minute walk to the hotel (Google maps link: https://tinyurl.com/2n6axmvf). Regular Ticket: 3,10 Euros.

Car rental is relatively easy and cheap on the island. Various options are available, like the following: Cheap Car Hire Heraklion Airport – Rentalcars.com.

Visa and practical information

Crete is Greece’s biggest island. It is a very touristic place and overall considered very safe.

We recommend bringing some cash for your purchases. Credit cards are accepted (mostly VISA and Mastercard), although there is often a minimum transaction amount below which you can only use cash.

The average temperature on Crete in October is roughly 20°C.

Covid -19 Information

The most updated information related to Corona and travel in Greece can be found here (in English): Protocol for Arrivals in Greece – travel.gov.gr

This section will be updated with more relevant information when applicable.

Visa Information

A visa may be required when you enter Greece. Please visit https://www.mfa.gr/en/index.html for more information.

Visa rules differ per country, but as a general rule, once a Schengen visa application is submitted to the Consulate, a decision is made by the Consulate within 15 calendar days. This period may be extended up to 30 days or 60 days.

When should I apply for a visa?

Applications can be submitted no more than six (6) months before the start of the intended trip. It is advisable to submit an application at least 15 calendar days before the intended visit.

However, it is also recommended that you submit the visa application taking into account the national holidays of the Schengen State of destination and the country where you apply for the visa.

Holders of a multiple-entry visa (valid for a period of at least six months) may submit the application for a new visa before the expiry of that visa.

To request a letter of invitation from the Conference for Visa purposes: contact the organizers providing your personal details including the institution you belong to.