Travelling from Mykonos to Piraeus: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Looking to travel from the stunning island of Mykonos to Athens' main port of Piraeus? This popular Greek route offers travellers a scenic journey across the Aegean Sea. Whether you're ending your island-hopping adventure or continuing to explore mainland Greece, the ferry connection between Mykonos and Piraeus provides a convenient and enjoyable travel option. With approximately 2 daily sailings and a journey that typically takes around 4 hours 13 minutes, the ferry route offers both efficiency and beautiful Mediterranean views. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about taking the ferry from Mykonos to Piraeus, including schedules, prices, port information, and what to expect upon arrival in Athens.

How to get from Mykonos to Piraeus: Flights and Ferries

When travelling from Mykonos to Piraeus, you have two main transportation options: flying or taking a ferry. Each offers different advantages depending on your travel preferences and schedule.

The ferry journey from Mykonos to Piraeus spans approximately 104.5 nautical miles (193.6 km or 120.3 miles) across the Aegean Sea. With an average duration of 4 hours and 13 minutes, the ferry provides a relaxing way to travel while enjoying spectacular views of the Greek islands. There are typically 2 daily sailings, amounting to about 14 weekly or 67 monthly connections, giving you flexibility in planning your journey.

The fastest ferry service is operated by SeaJets, which can complete the journey in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. This high-speed option comes at a premium price point, with tickets averaging around £205. For those less concerned with speed, longer journeys of up to 6 hours and 15 minutes are available, often at more economical rates.

The ferry experience offers unique advantages that flights cannot match. From the spacious decks where you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze to the opportunity to witness the approaching Athens coastline, the journey itself becomes part of the travel experience. Most ferries offer comfortable seating, cafes, and sometimes full-service restaurants, making the trip both pleasant and practical.

Taking the ferry from Mykonos to Piraeus

You can take a ferry from Mykonos to Piraeus. Ferries sail in around 4 hours 13 minutes with about 2 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 2 hours 45 minutes and is provided by SeaJets. Ferry prices can range depending on the operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry, and time of year, with high-speed services from SeaJets averaging around £205 per passenger. Departures start as early as 08:00, with the last departure from Mykonos to Piraeus at 21:50.

SeaJets operates the premium high-speed service on this route, offering the quickest journey time of just 2 hours and 45 minutes. Their vessels are modern, comfortable, and equipped with amenities to make your journey enjoyable. While the ticket price is higher than slower alternatives, many travellers find the time saved is worth the additional cost, especially if you're on a tight schedule or want to maximise your time in Athens.

Onboard ferry amenities typically include comfortable seating areas, cafes serving snacks and beverages, duty-free shops on larger vessels, and outdoor deck space for enjoying the views. Most ferries offer both economy and premium seating options, with the latter providing more space and comfort for an additional fee. Wi-Fi is increasingly common on modern ferries, though connectivity can be intermittent during the journey.

When planning your ferry journey, consider the seasonal variations in schedule and pricing. Summer months (June through September) see increased frequency of sailings but also higher demand and prices. Booking in advance is highly recommended during this peak season. The shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn offer a good balance of regular service with more moderate pricing and fewer crowds.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Mykonos)

Mykonos Port, officially known as the New Port or Tourlos, is located about 2.5 kilometres north of Mykonos Town (Chora). The port has undergone significant modernisation in recent years to accommodate the increasing number of visitors to this popular Cycladic island.

Getting to the port is straightforward. Public buses run regularly between Mykonos Town and the port, especially timed to coordinate with ferry departures. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxis are readily available across the island and offer a more direct option, though at a higher cost. If you've rented a vehicle during your stay, there is parking available near the port, but spaces can be limited during peak season.

The port terminal offers essential facilities including ticket offices where you can collect pre-booked tickets or purchase new ones (though advance booking is strongly recommended), a waiting area, restrooms, and small cafes or kiosks for last-minute refreshments. There are also ATMs, luggage storage facilities, and tourist information points to assist travellers.

It's advisable to arrive at the port at least 45-60 minutes before your scheduled departure, especially during busy summer months, to allow time for parking or drop-off, ticket collection, and boarding procedures.

Arrival Port (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the main port of Athens and one of the largest passenger ports in Europe. It's a sprawling complex with multiple gates and terminals serving different ferry routes. Ferries from Mykonos typically arrive at either Gate E7 or E8, though this can vary by operator and season.

Upon disembarking, you'll find the port well-connected to Athens' transportation network. The Piraeus metro station (Line 1, the Green Line) is within walking distance from most ferry terminals and provides direct access to central Athens in approximately 20-25 minutes. The X96 bus offers a direct connection to Athens International Airport, taking about 90 minutes depending on traffic.

Taxis are abundant at the port, with designated stands outside the main terminals. For those continuing their journey to other parts of Greece, the port is connected to the national rail network via the nearby Piraeus Railway Station.

Within the port area, you'll find a range of facilities including currency exchange services, ATMs, cafes, restaurants, and shops. There are also tourist information points where you can get maps, transportation advice, and accommodation recommendations if needed.

Day Trip Possibilities

While a day trip from Mykonos to Piraeus and back is technically possible, it's quite challenging and would leave very little time for exploring Athens. With the earliest departure from Mykonos at 08:00 and a journey time of at least 2 hours 45 minutes (on the fastest SeaJets service), you would arrive in Piraeus around 10:45 at the earliest.

Considering the latest return sailing departs Piraeus at 21:50, this would theoretically give you about 11 hours in Athens. However, when you factor in the time needed to travel between Piraeus and central Athens (approximately 30 minutes each way), plus the recommended early arrival at the port for your return journey, your effective sightseeing time in Athens reduces to around 9 hours.

For most visitors, this tight schedule makes a day trip impractical and potentially stressful. A more enjoyable approach would be to spend at least one night in Athens, allowing you to experience the city without rushing and to visit key attractions when they're less crowded in the early morning or evening hours.

If you're determined to make a day trip work, we recommend focusing on just one or two key attractions rather than attempting to see everything. The Acropolis and its museum, for example, could make for a manageable day trip focus, or perhaps a walking tour of the historic Plaka neighbourhood combined with a visit to the Ancient Agora.

An alternative approach is to consider a guided tour that includes port transfers, which can maximise your limited time by providing efficient transportation and prioritised entry to major sites.

Things to Do in Piraeus and Athens

While Piraeus serves primarily as Athens' port, it offers its own attractions worth exploring before heading into the capital city:

Top 5 Attractions

The Acropolis and Parthenon - The iconic symbol of Athens and Western civilisation, this ancient citadel sits atop a rocky outcrop and offers spectacular views of the city. Open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 during summer (shorter hours in winter). Allow at least 2-3 hours for a proper visit.

The Acropolis Museum - Housing artefacts from the Acropolis archaeological site, this modern museum provides context and history for what you'll see at the ancient site itself. Open from 8:00 to 20:00 most days, with extended hours on Fridays.

The Archaeological Museum of Piraeus - If you're staying near the port, this excellent museum houses sculptures, artefacts, and treasures discovered in Piraeus, including impressive bronze statues. Open 8:30 to 15:30, closed Tuesdays.

Plaka & Monastiraki - These adjacent neighbourhoods offer a charming maze of streets filled with shops, tavernas, and neoclassical architecture. Perfect for wandering, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying authentic Greek cuisine.

Mikrolimano - This picturesque harbour in Piraeus is lined with seafood restaurants and offers a more local experience away from the main tourist areas. It's especially beautiful in the evening when the lights reflect on the water.

Neighbourhood Guide

Piraeus - Beyond being just a transit point, Piraeus has charming areas like Pasalimani and Mikrolimano harbours, lined with seafood tavernas and offering local atmosphere.

Plaka - The oldest neighbourhood in Athens, featuring neoclassical architecture, narrow streets, and numerous shops and restaurants. It sits in the shadow of the Acropolis and retains a village-like atmosphere.

Monastiraki - Famous for its flea market and vibrant square, this area connects to the Ancient Agora and offers excellent shopping opportunities from souvenirs to antiques.

Psiri - Once an industrial area, now transformed into Athens' hip nightlife district with numerous bars, live music venues, and restaurants serving until late.

Kolonaki - The upscale district of central Athens, featuring high-end boutiques, elegant cafes, and art galleries. It's also the starting point for walks up Lycabettus Hill.

Weather in Piraeus

Athens and Piraeus enjoy a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, slightly rainy winters. This climate makes the region pleasant to visit year-round, though each season offers different advantages and considerations.

Summer (June to August) brings reliable sunshine and very little rainfall, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). July and August are the hottest months, when temperatures can occasionally climb above 40°C (104°F). These conditions are perfect for exploring the coastal areas around Piraeus but can make urban sightseeing in Athens challenging during midday hours.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making these seasons ideal for combining city exploration with coastal enjoyment. These shoulder seasons also bring fewer crowds and more moderate pricing.

Winter (December to February) is mild compared to northern Europe, with temperatures typically between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While rainfall increases during these months, Athens still enjoys many clear, sunny days, perfect for visiting archaeological sites and museums without the crowds or heat of summer.

Regarding ferry operations, the weather generally has minimal impact during summer months, with services running reliably to schedule. During winter, particularly from November through February, strong winds can occasionally cause delays or cancellations, especially for high-speed services which are more affected by rough seas. If travelling during winter, it's advisable to build some flexibility into your schedule and keep informed about weather forecasts.

Cost of Visiting Piraeus and Athens

Athens offers excellent value compared to many European capitals, though prices have increased in popular tourist areas in recent years. Your daily budget will vary significantly based on your travel style and preferences.

For budget travellers, a daily allowance of £50-70 can cover basic accommodation in a hostel or budget hotel, public transportation, visits to some archaeological sites or museums, and meals at inexpensive tavernas or souvlaki shops. Street food like gyros wraps cost around £3-4, while a meal at a casual taverna averages £12-20 per person.

Mid-range travellers should budget £100-150 daily for comfortable hotels, all major attractions, and meals at good-quality restaurants. A dinner at a nice neighbourhood restaurant typically costs £20-30 per person without drinks.

Luxury travellers can expect to spend £200+ daily for high-end hotels, private tours, and fine dining experiences. A meal at an upscale restaurant in areas like Kolonaki or by the Mikrolimano harbour can cost £40-60 per person or more.

Additional costs to consider include the combined ticket for the Acropolis and other archaeological sites (£30), museum entries (£5-10 each), and transportation. A 5-day public transport ticket covering all modes within Athens costs approximately £9, offering excellent value.

For travellers seeking value, consider staying in neighbourhoods like Koukaki or Pangrati rather than the more expensive areas directly around the Acropolis, and take advantage of the excellent public transportation system rather than taxis.

Best Time to Visit Piraeus and Athens

The ideal time to visit Athens and Piraeus depends largely on your priorities regarding weather, crowds, and pricing.

Peak season runs from June through August, coinciding with the hottest weather and largest crowds. During this period, you'll find the fullest ferry schedules between Mykonos and Piraeus, with the maximum number of daily sailings. However, you'll also encounter higher prices for accommodation and longer queues at major attractions. The advantage is the virtually guaranteed sunny weather and the vibrant atmosphere of a city in full summer mode, with outdoor cinemas, concerts, and dining options all operating at their peak.

The shoulder seasons of late April to early June and September to mid-October offer an excellent compromise. Temperatures are pleasantly warm (typically 20-25°C or 68-77°F) but not oppressively hot, making sightseeing more comfortable. Ferry services remain frequent, though slightly reduced from peak summer schedules. Tourist numbers are lower, resulting in more reasonable accommodation prices and less crowded attractions.

Winter visits from November through March offer the advantage of significantly lower prices and virtually no crowds at major sites. While some island ferry routes reduce their frequency during this period, the Mykonos to Piraeus connection maintains regular service, albeit with fewer daily options. Winter visitors can explore archaeological sites and museums in peace, though some outdoor cafes and seasonal businesses may be closed. Occasional rainy days are possible, but Athens still enjoys many clear, sunny days perfect for exploration.

For cultural travellers, timing your visit to coincide with events like the Athens Festival (June to October), which features performances at ancient venues like the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, can add a special dimension to your trip. Similarly, Greek Orthodox Easter (usually in April or May) offers a unique cultural experience, though many businesses close for the holiday weekend itself.

Accommodation Options in Piraeus

After your ferry journey from Mykonos to Piraeus, you'll find a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style.

For budget-conscious travellers, the area around Piraeus port offers several affordable hotels and guesthouses, with prices starting from around £40 per night. These provide convenient access to both the ferry terminal and public transport connections to central Athens.

Solo travellers might appreciate the social atmosphere of hostels in nearby Athens, many offering dormitory beds from £15-25 per night. Couples may prefer boutique hotels in Piraeus or the charming Kastella hill area, where you can find stylish rooms with sea views for £60-90 per night.

Families travelling together should consider apartment rentals in residential neighbourhoods like Pasalimani or Zea Marina, providing more space and self-catering facilities, typically ranging from £70-120 per night depending on size and amenities.

We recommend booking accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer season when Piraeus serves as a gateway for island-hoppers and cruise passengers.

Getting Around Piraeus

Navigating Piraeus and connecting to Athens is straightforward thanks to an efficient public transportation network. The metro Line 1 (Green Line) connects Piraeus directly to central Athens, with trains running frequently from early morning until midnight. A single ticket costs around £1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes across all public transport.

Local buses serve various parts of Piraeus and its surroundings. Look for the blue buses operated by OASA for city routes. The X96 bus offers a direct connection between Piraeus and Athens International Airport, running 24/7.

Taxis are readily available around the port area and operate on meters. Expect to pay around £10-15 for trips within Piraeus or to nearby Athens neighbourhoods. Ride-sharing apps like Beat (similar to Uber) are also popular and often more convenient.

For those wanting to explore at their own pace, car rental agencies can be found near the port, with daily rates starting from about £30. However, be aware that parking in Piraeus can be challenging, especially near the port.

Many attractions in Piraeus are within walking distance of each other, making exploration on foot an enjoyable option, particularly around the marinas and coastal promenades.

Your Greek Island Adventure Awaits

Travelling from Mykonos to Piraeus by ferry offers a perfect blend of convenience and scenic beauty. With a journey time averaging 4 hours 13 minutes and operators like SeaJets offering express services in just 2 hours 45 minutes, the sea route provides a comfortable and practical way to return to the mainland after enjoying Mykonos' famous beaches and nightlife.

With 14 weekly sailings and convenient departure times from 08:00 to 21:50, you'll find plenty of scheduling options to suit your travel plans. The ferry experience itself becomes part of your Greek adventure, offering stunning Aegean views and a chance to relax before arriving in the bustling port of Piraeus.

Ready to complete your Greek island itinerary? Book your Mykonos to Piraeus ferry tickets today and secure your preferred sailing time. Whether you're ending your holiday or continuing your exploration of Greece, this essential ferry route connects you seamlessly to Athens and beyond.