Travelling from Naxos to Piraeus: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Looking to journey from the beautiful Cycladic island of Naxos to Piraeus, the main port of Athens? You're in for a straightforward and scenic voyage across the Aegean Sea. This popular route connects one of Greece's most charming islands with the bustling mainland and serves as an essential link for both tourists and locals. With approximately 3 daily ferry departures and a sailing distance of 113.7 nautical miles (210.5 km), the journey offers a comfortable and convenient travel option. While flights might be available during certain seasons, the ferry route provides reliable year-round service with the added bonus of spectacular maritime views. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about travelling between Naxos and Piraeus, with a special focus on the ferry experience.

How to get from Naxos to Piraeus: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Naxos to Piraeus, you have transportation options to consider, though ferries remain the most reliable and consistent choice.

Ferry Travel

Ferry travel is the primary and most dependable way to travel from Naxos to Piraeus. With 3 daily sailings (approximately 25 weekly and 114 monthly), you'll have plenty of scheduling flexibility. The average crossing takes about 4 hours and 33 minutes, making it an efficient way to reach the mainland while enjoying the stunning Aegean seascape.

The fastest operator on this route is SeaJets, offering journeys of approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. This high-speed service comes at a premium, with tickets averaging around £244. The longer journeys can take up to 6 hours and 5 minutes, but often come with more amenities and comfortable seating options.

Ferry travel offers several advantages over other transportation methods. You'll enjoy panoramic sea views, the ability to move around freely during your journey, access to food and beverage services, and the convenience of arriving directly at Piraeus port, which is well-connected to Athens city centre.

Taking the ferry from Naxos to Piraeus

You can take a ferry from Naxos to Piraeus. Ferries sail in around 4 hours and 33 minutes with about 3 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 3 hours and 25 minutes and is provided by SeaJets. Ferry prices can range significantly depending on the operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry, and time of year. The fastest service with SeaJets averages around £244. Departures start as early as 09:30, with the last departure from Naxos to Piraeus at 18:00.

SeaJets operates the fastest vessels on this route, with their high-speed catamarans cutting through the Aegean waters to deliver you to Piraeus in just over 3 hours. Their vessels typically offer comfortable seating, cafés serving refreshments and light meals, and outdoor deck spaces where you can enjoy the sea breeze.

Onboard amenities vary by vessel but generally include:

• Air-conditioned lounges with comfortable seating
• Cafés and snack bars serving hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, and light meals
• Outdoor deck areas for enjoying the views
• Free Wi-Fi on most modern vessels
• Television screens showing movies or travel information
• Clean restroom facilities

While the route operates year-round, it's worth noting that ferry schedules may change seasonally. During summer (June-September), you'll find more frequent departures, while winter schedules might be slightly reduced. The good news is that with 25 weekly sailings, you'll still have plenty of options regardless of when you travel.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Naxos)

Naxos Port (also called Chora Port) is conveniently located in the main town of Naxos, making it easily accessible for travellers. The port is within walking distance of many hotels and accommodations in Chora (Naxos Town).

To reach the port:

• By bus: Local KTEL buses connect various parts of the island to Naxos Town
• By taxi: Readily available throughout the island and can take you directly to the port
• By car: If you've rented a vehicle, there's parking available near the port area, though spaces can be limited during peak season

The port facilities include:

• Ticket offices where you can purchase or collect pre-booked ferry tickets
• Small waiting area
• Cafés and restaurants along the waterfront
• Public restrooms
• Tourist information point

We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for boarding procedures.

Arrival Port (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the main port of Athens and one of the busiest passenger ports in Europe. It's a large facility with multiple gates and terminals, but well-organised with clear signage.

Upon arrival, you'll find several transportation options to reach Athens city centre or other destinations:

• Metro: Line 1 (Green Line) connects Piraeus directly to central Athens, with trains running frequently
• Bus: Multiple bus lines serve the port area, connecting to various parts of Athens
• Taxi: Official taxi stands are located outside the main terminals
• Rental cars: Several agencies have offices near the port

Port facilities include:

• Information desks
• ATMs and currency exchange
• Luggage storage
• Cafés and fast-food outlets
• Kiosks for basic supplies
• Public restrooms

The port area is quite expansive, so it's helpful to know which gate your ferry arrives at. From most ferry arrival points, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the metro station.

Day Trip Possibilities

Is it possible to make a day trip from Naxos to Piraeus (and Athens)? While technically feasible, it would be quite challenging and wouldn't allow much time to explore Athens properly.

With the earliest ferry departing Naxos at 09:30 and arriving in Piraeus around 13:00 (assuming the fastest 3 hour 25 minute journey), you would have limited exploration time before needing to return. The latest departure from Piraeus back to Naxos might not be late enough to allow for a satisfying visit to Athens.

If you're determined to make a day trip, we recommend:

• Take the earliest possible ferry from Naxos (09:30)
• Focus on seeing just 1-2 key attractions in Athens
• Consider booking a taxi or private tour to maximise your limited time
• Keep a close eye on the return schedule

A more practical alternative would be to spend at least one night in Athens, allowing you to fully appreciate what the historic city has to offer without rushing. Even a single overnight stay would transform your experience from hectic to enjoyable.

Things to Do in Piraeus

While many travellers pass through Piraeus on their way to Athens, the port city itself offers several interesting attractions worth exploring:

Top 5 Attractions in Piraeus

• Archaeological Museum of Piraeus - Housing remarkable ancient Greek sculptures and artefacts, including the famous bronze statues found in Piraeus. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30-15:00.
• Mikrolimano Harbour - A picturesque fishing harbour lined with seafood restaurants and cafés. Perfect for a leisurely meal with views of colourful fishing boats and luxury yachts.
• Zea Marina - One of the largest marinas in the Mediterranean, offering a pleasant promenade with shops, restaurants, and impressive yachts. Great for an evening stroll.
• Hellenic Maritime Museum - Explore Greece's rich naval history through ship models, nautical instruments, and historical artefacts. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00-14:00.
• Kastella Hill - A charming neighbourhood offering panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf and neoclassical architecture. The perfect spot for sunset views and photography.

Of course, Piraeus also serves as the gateway to Athens, putting world-famous attractions like the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, and the historic Plaka district within easy reach via a short metro ride.

Neighbourhood Guide

Piraeus offers several distinct areas worth exploring:

• Pasalimani/Zea Marina - An upscale area with a beautiful marina, numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops. Popular with both locals and tourists.
• Kastella - A hillside residential neighbourhood with neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and excellent views. More authentic and less touristy.
• Mikrolimano - A picturesque fishing harbour known for its seafood tavernas and relaxed atmosphere. Especially beautiful in the evening.
• Port Area - The bustling commercial heart of Piraeus, with shopping streets, markets, and transportation hubs. Less scenic but authentic and lively.

Weather in Piraeus

Piraeus enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters.

Summer (June-September): Expect warm to hot temperatures ranging from 25°C-35°C (77°F-95°F). July and August are the hottest months with virtually no rainfall. This period offers perfect conditions for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities, though midday heat can be intense.

Spring and Autumn (April-May and October-November): These shoulder seasons bring pleasant temperatures between 15°C-25°C (59°F-77°F) with moderate rainfall. Many consider these months ideal for visiting, as you'll enjoy comfortable weather without summer crowds.

Winter (December-March): Mild compared to northern Europe, with temperatures typically ranging from 8°C-15°C (46°F-59°F). Rainfall is more common during these months, with December and January being the wettest. Occasional cold snaps can occur, but snow is extremely rare.

Regarding ferry operations, the weather generally has minimal impact during summer months, when seas are typically calm. During winter, occasional strong winds in the Aegean can cause delays or cancellations, though the Naxos-Piraeus route is relatively sheltered compared to some other island connections. If travelling in winter, it's advisable to build some flexibility into your schedule.

Cost of Visiting Piraeus

Piraeus and nearby Athens offer options for various budget levels, though prices have increased in recent years as tourism has grown.

Budget travellers can manage on £50-70 per day, staying in hostels or budget hotels (£20-40), eating at inexpensive tavernas or souvlaki shops (£5-10 per meal), and using public transportation (£1.20 for a 90-minute ticket).

Mid-range travellers should budget £100-150 daily, affording comfortable hotels (£60-100), nice restaurants (£15-25 per meal), and occasional taxi rides or guided tours.

Luxury travellers can expect to spend £200+ per day on boutique or five-star accommodations, fine dining, and private tours or transfers.

Some typical costs:

• Coffee at a café: £2-3
• Souvlaki wrap: £3-4
• Meal at a traditional taverna: £15-25 per person (including wine)
• Metro ticket: £1.20 (valid for 90 minutes)
• Taxi from Piraeus to central Athens: £10-15
• Entrance to Archaeological Museum of Piraeus: £4

Best Time to Visit Piraeus

The ideal time to visit Piraeus largely depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and costs.

Peak Season (June-August): Expect hot weather, larger crowds especially at tourist sites, and higher prices for accommodations. The advantage is guaranteed sunshine, lively atmosphere, and maximum operating hours for attractions. Ferry services are at their most frequent during this period.

Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Many consider these months the perfect time to visit. You'll enjoy pleasant temperatures, reduced crowds, and somewhat lower prices while still finding most attractions and restaurants fully operational. The sea remains warm enough for swimming in September and early October.

Off-Peak (November-March): The quietest period brings the lowest prices and a more authentic local experience. While some tourist-oriented businesses may have reduced hours, major attractions remain open. Occasional rainy days are possible, but you'll often enjoy clear, mild weather perfect for exploring archaeological sites and museums without crowds.

For the best balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds, we recommend visiting in May, early June, September, or early October. These periods offer an excellent compromise that allows you to enjoy both Piraeus and Athens at their best.

Accommodation Options in Piraeus

Finding the right place to stay after your ferry journey from Naxos to Piraeus is essential for a comfortable visit. The port city offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

For budget-conscious travellers, areas like Kastella and around the port offer affordable guesthouses and small hotels, with prices starting from around £40 per night. Solo travellers might enjoy the social atmosphere of hostels near the metro stations, providing easy access to both Athens and the port.

Couples seeking a more romantic stay can explore boutique hotels in Mikrolimano with beautiful marina views, typically ranging from £70-120 per night. Families travelling together should consider the apartment rentals in Pasalimani area, offering more space and kitchen facilities.

If you're planning to explore both Piraeus and Athens, staying near the metro line A (green line) provides convenient transportation options. Book accommodations in advance during summer months when ferry traffic is at its peak to secure the best rates.

Getting Around Piraeus

Navigating Piraeus after arriving on your ferry from Naxos is straightforward with several transportation options available.

The most efficient way to travel is via the Metro Line 1 (green line), connecting Piraeus to central Athens and other parts of the city. Tickets cost approximately £1.20 for a 90-minute journey across all public transport. Local buses also serve various routes within Piraeus and to nearby coastal areas.

Taxis are readily available at the port, with a typical fare to central Athens costing around £15-20 depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Beat also operate in the area.

If you're staying locally, Piraeus is quite walkable, especially around the port areas and Mikrolimano. For those wanting to explore at their own pace, car rental services are available with daily rates starting from about £30.

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular, with bike rental shops offering daily hires from approximately £15 – a pleasant way to explore the coastal promenades.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

Travelling from Naxos to Piraeus by ferry offers an authentic Greek island experience that combines convenience with spectacular Aegean views. With approximately 3 daily sailings and 25 weekly options, you have plenty of flexibility to plan your journey.

Whether you choose the faster SeaJets service taking just 3 hours 25 minutes or prefer a more leisurely crossing, this 113.7 nautical mile journey bridges the tranquil island life of Naxos with the vibrant energy of Athens.

Remember that ferries operate year-round on this route, making it an excellent travel option regardless of when you visit Greece. Book your ferry tickets in advance to secure the best fares and preferred sailing times, especially during peak summer months when the 114 monthly sailings can fill up quickly.

Start planning your Naxos to Piraeus ferry journey today and look forward to the perfect blend of island relaxation and metropolitan excitement that only Greece can offer.