Travelling from Piraeus to Poros (Saronic Islands): Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Planning a trip from Piraeus to the idyllic Poros in the Saronic Islands? You've chosen one of Greece's most picturesque maritime routes. This popular journey connects Athens' main port with one of the most charming islands in the Saronic Gulf. While flights aren't available for this short 31-mile crossing, the ferry service offers an efficient and scenic alternative. With multiple daily departures and relatively short journey times, travelling by sea is the perfect way to begin your island adventure. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the ferry services, port information, and what to expect when you reach beautiful Poros.

How to get from Piraeus to Poros (Saronic Islands): Ferries

The ferry is the only direct transportation option between Piraeus and Poros, as the short distance of just 31.1 miles (50 km) makes air travel impractical. The ferry journey offers both convenience and spectacular views of the Saronic Gulf that you simply wouldn't experience any other way.

The sea route from Piraeus to Poros spans approximately 27 nautical miles and takes on average 1 hour and 6 minutes. This makes it perfect for both extended stays and day trips. The relatively short duration combined with the comfortable amenities onboard creates a pleasant travel experience that feels more like part of your holiday than merely transportation.

With 4 daily sailings and approximately 27 departures each week, you'll have plenty of flexibility when planning your journey. The frequency increases during summer months, with about 125 sailings monthly, ensuring you can find a departure time that suits your schedule perfectly.

Taking the ferry from Piraeus to Poros (Saronic Islands)

You can take a ferry from Piraeus to Poros (Saronic Islands). The Athens to Poros ferry sails in around 1 hour and 6 minutes with about 4 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 55 minutes and is provided by Hellenic Seaways. Ferry prices can range depending on operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry and time of year. The fastest crossing with Hellenic Seaways costs approximately £122. Departures start as early as 08:30, with the last departure from Piraeus to Poros at 20:30.

Hellenic Seaways is the primary operator serving this route, offering the quickest crossing time of just 55 minutes. Their modern fleet provides comfortable seating, outdoor deck space to enjoy the views, and amenities like cafes serving refreshments and snacks during your journey.

While the average crossing takes just over an hour, some services may take longer – up to 2 hours and 35 minutes – depending on the vessel type and whether it stops at other islands along the way. The direct, high-speed services are typically more expensive but save considerable time.

When planning your journey, we recommend booking in advance, especially during the peak summer season when ferries can fill up quickly with tourists and locals alike. The good news is that services run year-round, making Poros accessible regardless of when you plan to visit.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Piraeus)

As the main port of Athens and one of the busiest in the Mediterranean, Piraeus is well-organised but can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. The port has multiple gates serving different destinations, with ferries to the Saronic Islands typically departing from Gate E8.

Getting to Piraeus is straightforward from Athens city centre. The metro Line 1 (Green Line) terminates at Piraeus station, which is about a 15-20 minute walk from the ferry terminals. Alternatively, buses connect the metro station to various parts of the port. Taxis are readily available throughout Athens and can drop you directly at your departure gate.

The port facilities include waiting areas, cafes, snack bars, and shops where you can purchase last-minute necessities. There are also ATMs, luggage storage facilities, and tourist information points. We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for boarding procedures.

Arrival Port (Poros)

The ferry arrives at Poros Town, the island's main harbour. The port is immediately recognisable by its charming clock tower overlooking the waterfront. One of the most convenient aspects of arriving in Poros is that you'll dock right in the heart of the action – the main town spreads out from the harbour.

From the port, everything in Poros Town is within walking distance. The waterfront is lined with tavernas, cafes, and shops, making it easy to immediately immerse yourself in island life. For destinations further afield, there are taxis available near the port, and rental cars or scooters can be arranged from agencies in town.

The port area offers basic facilities including public restrooms, tourist information, and several ATMs. There are plenty of cafes where you can sit and enjoy the view while planning your next move on the island.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Piraeus to Poros is not only feasible but highly recommended for those with limited time in Greece. With the earliest ferry departing at 08:30 and the last return sailing at 20:30, you can enjoy a full day on the island.

For an ideal day trip, we suggest catching the early morning ferry from Piraeus, which gets you to Poros around 09:30. This gives you nearly 11 hours on the island before the last ferry back – plenty of time to explore the main attractions, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and even fit in some beach time.

A sample day trip itinerary might include:

- Morning: Explore Poros Town, visit the Clock Tower for panoramic views, and wander the narrow streets
- Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna
- Afternoon: Take a taxi to Love Bay or Askeli Beach for swimming and relaxation
- Evening: Return to town for shopping and a pre-departure drink with sunset views

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore the island more thoroughly, we'd recommend staying at least one night on Poros to fully appreciate its charm.

Things to Do in Poros (Saronic Islands)

Despite its small size, Poros offers plenty of activities and sights to keep visitors engaged:

Poros Clock Tower - The island's landmark offers spectacular panoramic views of the harbour and surrounding area. The short climb up the hill is rewarded with perfect photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi - Dating back to the 18th century, this historic monastery is set amid pine trees about 4 km from Poros Town. The peaceful grounds and impressive architecture make it well worth the visit.

Russian Naval Station - These atmospheric ruins date back to the 1830s when Russia maintained a naval base on the island. The remaining stone buildings and docks provide a glimpse into Poros's strategic maritime history.

Love Bay - One of the island's most beautiful beaches, Love Bay is a small cove surrounded by pine trees that reach right down to the crystal-clear water. The sheltered location makes it perfect for swimming.

Lemon Forest - Located on the mainland across from Poros (in the area called Galatas), this unique forest of lemon and orange trees creates a fragrant landscape that's particularly enchanting in spring when the trees bloom.

Neighbourhood guide

Poros Town is the heart of the island, with its amphitheatrically built white houses creating a postcard-perfect setting. The waterfront promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it the social centre of the island.

Askeli, about 2 km from the main town, is the island's most developed beach resort area, with accommodation options, tavernas, and water sports facilities. It's connected to Poros Town by a regular bus service.

Neorio Bay offers a more relaxed atmosphere with its small beach and fewer tourists. It's ideal for those seeking a quieter experience while still being within walking distance of Poros Town.

The island's interior, with its pine forests and olive groves, provides scenic hiking opportunities and a chance to experience the natural beauty that complements Poros's coastal charm.

Weather in Poros (Saronic Islands)

Poros enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The island benefits from its location in the Saronic Gulf, which provides some shelter from the stronger winds that can affect other Greek islands.

Summer (June to September) brings reliable sunshine with temperatures regularly reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F). The sea temperature is perfect for swimming, typically around 23-25°C (73-77°F). These months are ideal for beach activities and water sports, though August can be particularly crowded and hot.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer milder temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and fewer crowds, making these seasons perfect for exploring the island's natural beauty and historical sites.

Winter (December to March) is the quietest period, with temperatures averaging 10-15°C (50-59°F) and increased chance of rainfall. Some businesses may close during this period, but the island never completely shuts down as it has a permanent population.

Ferry services operate year-round, though with reduced frequency in winter. The sea can be choppier during winter months, but the short crossing to Poros is generally smooth compared to longer island routes.

Cost of Visiting Poros (Saronic Islands)

Poros offers good value compared to more famous Greek islands, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers while still providing upscale options for those seeking luxury.

A typical daily budget might look like:

Budget traveller: £50-70 per day covering basic accommodation, street food or self-catering, public beaches, and minimal transportation.

Mid-range traveller: £100-150 per day including a comfortable hotel, meals at local tavernas, some activities, and occasional taxi rides.

Luxury traveller: £200+ per day for boutique accommodation, fine dining, private tours, and water sports.

Sample costs include:

- Ferry ticket from Piraeus: From £122 for a high-speed service
- Simple meal at a taverna: £10-15 per person
- Coffee at a waterfront café: £2-4
- Taxi from Poros Town to beaches: £5-10
- Hotel room: £40-150 depending on standard and season

Best Time to Visit Poros (Saronic Islands)

The ideal time to visit Poros depends on your preferences and priorities:

Peak season (July-August): Perfect for beach lovers seeking vibrant atmosphere and nightlife. The island is at its liveliest, with all attractions, restaurants, and services operating at full capacity. However, this comes with higher prices and more crowds, particularly on weekends when Athenians escape to the island.

Shoulder season (May-June and September-October): We consider this the sweet spot for visiting Poros. The weather remains warm enough for swimming, prices drop significantly, and the island takes on a more relaxed pace. You'll experience more authentic interactions with locals while still enjoying excellent services.

Off-peak (November-April): For those interested in hiking, photography, and experiencing local culture, winter has its own charm. The island feels wonderfully authentic, though some tourist facilities close and ferry schedules are reduced.

Notable events include the Feast of Agia Marina in July, featuring traditional celebrations, and the Poros Naval Week in early summer, which commemorates the island's maritime heritage with boat parades and cultural events.

For the perfect balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds, we recommend late May, June, or September as the best months to experience all that Poros has to offer.

Accommodation Options in Poros

Finding the perfect place to stay in Poros is easy with options to suit every traveller and budget. The island offers charming accommodations mostly concentrated around Poros Town and nearby beaches.

For solo travellers, several guesthouses and small hotels in Poros Town provide comfortable rooms starting from £40 per night. These often include breakfast and are within walking distance of the harbour and main attractions.

Couples might enjoy the boutique hotels and private apartments overlooking the sea, particularly in the Neorio area. These properties typically range from £60-120 per night depending on the season and offer romantic views across the Saronic Gulf.

Families will find several family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, especially around Askeli Beach, providing easy access to swimming areas and restaurants. Many offer apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes, starting from around £80 per night.

For budget-conscious travellers, smaller pensions in the back streets of Poros Town offer authentic experiences from £30 per night. Booking in advance is essential during the summer months when the island sees its highest visitor numbers.

Getting Around Poros

Navigating Poros is straightforward due to its relatively small size (approximately 33 km²). The island offers several convenient transportation options to help you explore.

Local buses run regularly between Poros Town and popular beaches like Askeli, Neorio, and Monastery Beach. Tickets are inexpensive at around £1-2 per journey, making this an economical choice for getting around.

Taxis are readily available at the port and in town, with set fares to different destinations across the island. A typical journey from the port to Askeli Beach costs approximately £5-7.

Renting a scooter or quad bike is popular among visitors, with daily rates starting at about £15-20. This offers flexibility to explore hidden beaches and viewpoints at your own pace.

Walking is an excellent option for exploring Poros Town itself, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy strolling distance of each other. The seafront promenade is particularly pleasant for evening walks.

Water taxis can be hired to reach secluded beaches or neighbouring coves, adding a unique dimension to your island exploration.

Your Perfect Greek Island Getaway Awaits

Travelling from Piraeus to Poros by ferry offers an authentic taste of Greek island life just a short journey from Athens. With Hellenic Seaways providing the fastest service at just 55 minutes and multiple daily departures between 08:30 and 20:30, reaching this Saronic gem couldn't be easier.

Whether you're seeking a day trip or an extended stay, Poros delivers that quintessential Greek island experience without requiring extensive travel time. The convenience of 4 daily sailings and 27 weekly connections ensures flexibility for your travel plans.

For just £122, you can enjoy a comfortable journey across the sparkling Aegean waters and step into the relaxed pace of island life. Book your ferry tickets in advance to secure your preferred sailing time and begin your Poros adventure with ease.