Travelling from Piraeus to Chios: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the journey from Piraeus to Chios offers travellers a glimpse into the authentic Greek island experience. This popular route connects Athens' main port with one of the North Aegean's most charming islands, covering approximately 151.8 nautical miles (281.2 km) across the sparkling Aegean Sea. While flights might be an option for some travellers, the ferry journey remains the preferred choice for many, offering spectacular views and a truly Greek travel experience. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Piraeus to Chios, with a focus on ferry services, port information, and making the most of your visit to this historic island.

How to get from Piraeus to Chios: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Piraeus to Chios, you have transportation options to consider, though ferries are the primary and most reliable method of travel.

By Ferry

The ferry route from Piraeus to Chios spans 151.8 nautical miles (281.2 km) across the Aegean Sea. Ferries operate regularly on this route with approximately 4 weekly sailings, totalling around 14 monthly connections. The average journey time is 9 hours and 32 minutes, making it an overnight journey in many cases.

Hellenic Seaways provides the fastest service on this route, with journey times of around 7 hours and 46 minutes. Expect to pay approximately £165 for a standard ticket, though prices may vary depending on the season, cabin type, and whether you're bringing a vehicle.

The ferry experience offers a relaxed journey where you can enjoy stunning sea views, comfortable accommodation options, and the authentic feeling of approaching the island by water – something you simply can't experience when flying.

Flight Options

While our focus is primarily on ferry travel, it's worth noting that flights to Chios are available from Athens International Airport, not directly from Piraeus. These flights typically take under an hour, but when factoring in airport transfers, check-in times, and baggage collection, the total journey time can be comparable to the fastest ferry services.

However, for those who prefer the scenic route and the authentic Greek island-hopping experience, ferries remain the transportation of choice for this route.

Taking the ferry from Piraeus to Chios

You can take a ferry from Piraeus to Chios. Ferries sail in around 9 hours and 32 minutes with about 1 sailing a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 7 hours and 46 minutes and is provided by Hellenic Seaways. Ferry prices are typically around £165 for standard passage. Departures start as early as 15:00, with the last departure from Piraeus to Chios at 23:59.

Ferry Operators

Hellenic Seaways is the primary operator serving the Piraeus-Chios route, offering the fastest crossing times. Their vessels are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable journey across the Aegean Sea.

Onboard Amenities

Ferries operating between Piraeus and Chios typically offer a range of facilities to make your journey comfortable. These usually include:

• Comfortable seating lounges
• Cabin accommodation options for overnight journeys
• Restaurants and cafés serving meals and refreshments
• Shops selling essentials and souvenirs
• Open decks where you can enjoy the sea views
• Wi-Fi connectivity (though signal strength may vary)

Seasonal Considerations

While ferries operate year-round on this route, it's worth noting that there are typically more frequent services during the summer months (June to September) to accommodate increased tourist demand. Winter schedules may offer fewer sailings, with approximately 14 monthly connections maintained throughout the year.

Weather conditions in the Aegean can occasionally affect sailing times, particularly during winter months when strong winds are more common. We recommend checking the latest updates before your journey.

Booking Tips

For the best fares and to secure your preferred accommodation type, we recommend booking your ferry tickets well in advance, especially if you're travelling during the peak summer season or around Greek holidays. Booking 2-3 months ahead is advisable for summer travel.

If you're travelling with a vehicle, be sure to specify this at the time of booking, as vehicle spaces can fill up quickly, particularly on popular sailing dates.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Piraeus)

As the main port of Athens and one of the busiest in the Mediterranean, Piraeus is well-equipped to handle thousands of travellers daily. The port has several gates serving different island groups, with ferries to Chios typically departing from the Central or E2 gate.

Getting to Piraeus is straightforward from Athens city centre:

• By Metro: Line 1 (Green Line) terminates at Piraeus station, which is about a 15-20 minute walk from the ferry terminals
• By Bus: Several bus lines connect Athens with Piraeus port
• By Taxi: A taxi from central Athens typically costs between £15-£25 depending on traffic

The port offers numerous facilities including:

• Luggage storage services
• Cafés and restaurants
• ATMs and currency exchange
• Tourist information points
• Waiting areas with seating

We recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for finding your gate and boarding procedures.

Arrival Port (Chios)

Chios port is located in Chios Town (also known as Chora), the island's capital. The port is relatively compact and easy to navigate, with clear signage directing passengers to exit points and transportation options.

From the port to Chios Town centre is a short walk of approximately 10 minutes. For other destinations on the island, you'll find:

• Taxi ranks directly outside the port
• Bus services connecting to major villages and attractions
• Car rental agencies within walking distance

The port area itself offers basic amenities including cafés, a tourist information point, and public toilets. For more extensive services, the town centre is just a short walk away.

Day Trip Possibilities

Considering the ferry journey from Piraeus to Chios takes an average of 9 hours and 32 minutes each way, a day trip is unfortunately not feasible. Even with the fastest service by Hellenic Seaways taking 7 hours and 46 minutes, you would have very little time on the island before needing to return.

For a meaningful visit to Chios, we recommend staying at least 2-3 nights. This allows you to explore the island's unique attractions, including the medieval mastic villages in the south, the striking black and white pebble designs in Pyrgi, and the island's beautiful beaches.

If you're limited on time but still want to experience a Greek island from Piraeus, consider closer alternatives such as Aegina or Hydra, which can be reached in under 2 hours and are more suitable for day trips from Athens.

Things to Do in Chios

Top Attractions

Chios offers a wealth of experiences for visitors, blending history, culture, and natural beauty:

1. Mastic Villages (Mastichochoria)

These medieval villages in southern Chios are famous for producing mastic, a resin with culinary and medicinal uses. Visit Pyrgi with its unique sgraffito decorations (geometric patterns scratched into plaster), and Mesta with its maze-like streets designed to confuse pirates.

2. Nea Moni Monastery

This 11th-century UNESCO World Heritage site features remarkable Byzantine mosaics and architecture. Open daily from 8:00 to 18:00, the monastery offers insight into both religious history and the island's past.

3. Chios Town

The island's capital combines neoclassical architecture with a bustling market and waterfront. Visit the Archaeological Museum and the Ottoman-era Mecidiye Mosque, then enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour restaurants.

4. Anavatos

Often called the mystical village, this abandoned settlement clings to a mountainside and offers a haunting glimpse into the past and spectacular views across the island.

5. Mavra Volia Beach

This unique beach features striking black volcanic pebbles against turquoise waters, creating a dramatic landscape that's perfect for photographers and swimmers alike.

Neighbourhood Guide

Chios Town (Chora) serves as the commercial and cultural hub of the island, with a pleasant waterfront promenade, shopping streets, and the majority of restaurants and cafés.

Kampos area, just south of Chios Town, features historic estates and mansions set among citrus orchards. The architecture here shows Genoese influences from the medieval period when they controlled the island.

Southern Chios is home to the famous mastic villages, each with its own character but all sharing the distinctive architecture developed to protect against pirate raids.

Northern Chios offers a more rugged landscape with smaller, less touristy villages and some excellent hiking opportunities, particularly around Mount Pelinneo.

Weather in Chios

Chios enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer temperatures (June to September) typically range from 25°C to 35°C, making it perfect for beach activities and exploration, though the meltemi winds can provide welcome relief from the heat.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer pleasant temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, ideal for hiking and sightseeing without the summer crowds.

Winter (December to March) brings temperatures of 8°C to 15°C with increased rainfall, though snow is rare except in the mountainous areas. Some tourist facilities may close during this period, but you'll experience a more authentic local lifestyle.

Regarding ferry operations, the weather generally has minimal impact during summer months. However, in winter, particularly strong winds can occasionally cause delays or cancellations. The Aegean Sea can become quite rough during winter storms, so if you're prone to seasickness, consider this when planning winter travel.

Cost of Visiting Chios

Chios offers good value compared to more famous Greek islands, though prices rise during the peak summer season.

A modest daily budget would be around £60-£80 per person, covering accommodation in a mid-range hotel (£40-£60), meals (£20-£30), and local transportation (£5-£10).

For those seeking luxury, expect to spend upwards of £150 daily with upscale accommodations and fine dining experiences.

Budget travellers can manage on £40-£50 daily by choosing simpler accommodations, eating at local tavernas, and using public transportation.

Some typical costs include:

• Coffee: £2-£3
• Simple taverna meal: £10-£15
• Bus ticket: £1.50-£2.50
• Museum entry: £3-£5
• Beach sunbed rental: £3-£5

Best Time to Visit Chios

The ideal time to visit Chios depends on your preferences and interests:

Peak Season (July-August) brings the warmest weather and liveliest atmosphere, with all attractions, restaurants, and facilities operating at full capacity. However, this also means higher prices and more crowds, particularly in popular areas like Chios Town and the mastic villages.

Shoulder Seasons (May-June and September-October) offer an excellent balance of pleasant weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, especially in early autumn, while spring brings lush landscapes and wildflowers.

Off-Peak (November-April) provides the most authentic experience of local life. While some tourist facilities close and ferry schedules reduce, you'll enjoy significantly lower prices and the peaceful atmosphere of an island without tourists. This is also when you might witness or participate in local traditions and festivals.

Notable events include the Rocket War (Rouketopolemos) in Vrontados during Orthodox Easter, where rival parishes fire thousands of homemade rockets at each other's church bell towers, and the Mastic Festival in August celebrating the island's famous product.

For most visitors, late May to early June or September offers the best overall experience, combining good weather, reasonable prices, and relatively thin crowds.

Accommodation Options in Chios

Finding the right place to stay in Chios can enhance your Greek island experience. The island offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

For budget-conscious travellers, consider guesthouses in Chios Town (Chora) where rooms typically range from £30-£50 per night. These often provide authentic Greek hospitality within walking distance of the main attractions and port.

Couples might enjoy the boutique hotels scattered throughout the medieval villages, particularly in Mesta or Pyrgi, where you can experience traditional architecture with modern amenities for approximately £60-£90 per night.

Families travelling to Chios should look at the beachfront apartments and family-friendly hotels in Karfas or Komi, offering spacious accommodations with kitchen facilities and easy beach access for £70-£120 per night depending on the season.

For those seeking a more rustic experience, Chios has several camping sites, particularly along the western coast, where you can pitch a tent or park a campervan for £10-£20 per night.

We recommend booking accommodations well in advance if travelling during the peak summer months (June-August) when availability becomes limited due to the popularity of this beautiful island.

Getting Around Chios

Navigating Chios is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options to help you explore this fascinating island.

The public bus network connects Chios Town to many villages and beaches, offering an affordable option with single journeys typically costing £1.50-£3. Buses run regularly during summer but have reduced schedules in winter.

Taxis are readily available in Chios Town and at the airport, operating with fixed rates to popular destinations. Expect to pay around £15-£25 for trips to nearby villages.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover remote beaches and mountain villages at your own pace. Daily rates start from approximately £30-£50, with several rental agencies located near the port and airport.

Scooter and bicycle rentals offer budget-friendly alternatives for shorter distances, especially in good weather. Scooter rentals typically cost around £15-£20 per day.

Walking is pleasant within Chios Town and the individual villages, with many historical sites and local attractions accessible on foot.

Your Greek Island Adventure Awaits

The journey from Piraeus to Chios offers travellers a quintessential Greek island experience. With approximately 14 sailings monthly and consistent weekly service, planning your trip is straightforward and convenient.

Hellenic Seaways provides the fastest crossing at 7 hours and 46 minutes, making the 151.8 nautical mile journey comfortable and efficient. At around £165 for this premium service, you get excellent value for a journey that showcases the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Whether you're drawn to Chios for its medieval villages, unique mastic production, or stunning beaches, the ferry journey itself becomes part of your Greek adventure. The regular departures from Piraeus port, typically in the afternoon and evening, allow you to plan your travel with confidence.

Ready to experience this wonderful Greek island journey? Book your ferry tickets today and prepare for an unforgettable Aegean adventure from the bustling port of Piraeus to the historic shores of Chios.