Ferry from Athens to Paros

How to Get to Paros from Athens

Paros is a unique holiday destination, masterfully blending bustling beach bars and vibrant nightlife with tranquil beaches, scenic landscapes, and quaint villages. The iconic Cycladic architecture, the transparent beaches, the outdoor activities, and its upscale dining scene make Paros one of the most authentic and worthwhile experiences. Thus, it comes as no surprise that it is regarded as one of the most popular Greek locations and enjoys adequate connections to the mainland and other Cycladic islands.

Ferries from Athens to Paros are the most sought-after transit option. You’ll find available crossings from all Athens Ports. That being said, Rafina Port is mostly recommended to passengers landing at Athens International Airport, as it is located fairly close to the aviation hub, while Lavrio Port is the furthest harbor from downtown Athens and ATH Airport. Even more so, there are only a few routes departing from this port in Athens. 

On the other hand, the main Port of Athens -Piraeus Port- is one of the busiest hubs globally. In fact, it is listed as the largest passenger port in Europe. Expectantly, it handles numerous ferry routes on a daily basis. Hence, sailings from Piraeus to Paros are far more frequent than from the other ports. What’s more, Athens Piraeus Port lies close to the city center. The journey from Piraeus Port to city center and vice versa lasts 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Travelers heading to the Port of Piraeus can catch a comfortable Piraeus port taxi, book a private transfer, or opt for a public bus ride. An Express Bus also links Athens to Piraeus Port. Finally, metro journeys are the fastest way to reach the harbor.

Types of Ferries from Athens to Paros

As soon as you settle on a ferry ride from Piraeus to Paros, you’ll come across two different ferry types: conventional and high-speed. It should be mentioned that they are both accessible, featuring all the necessary services and amenities for passengers with disabilities, while they offer limited or even more varied (depending on the vessel’s type) dining and drinking options. In any case, drinks and snacks are available on all ferries. Please keep in mind that regardless of the ship’s type, air-conditioning in the indoor spaces will most likely operate at full capacity. Thus, even if the temperature outside is really high (a common occurrence in Greece during the summer), a light jacket will prove handy while sitting in the air-conditioned spaces of the ferry.

Conventional and high-speed ferries come with many advantages. Thus, it’s up to you to make up your mind, considering your needs, preferences, and budget. In detail, you can take a glimpse of the main pros of each type to facilitate the decision-making process:

* recommended for travelers who get easily seasick.

The Ferry Schedule to Paros from Athens (Piraeus Port)

Are you planning a ferry trip from Athens to Paros? You’ll find several crossings from Piraeus Port. Despite being available all year long, sailings are far more frequent during the high tourist season, and even more so, from June to September. It’s important to keep in mind that ferry itineraries may change unexpectedly. Overall, ferry companies have different timetables each year and announce them from December to March. Moreover, sailings from Piraeus to Paros are a widely preferred transit option to one of the most popular island destinations. As a result, tickets quickly run out. Thus, you should book your ferry tickets as early as possible not only to ensure availability but also to benefit from deals and discounts. 

You should expect a 3 to 5-hour ferry journey to Paros from Athens Piraeus Port. The exact duration of your sailing depends on several variables, such as the type of the ship, the ferry company, the in-between stops, etc. Moreover, the weather conditions greatly affect the ferry time. That’s the main reason why routes often get delayed. Hence, you should keep in mind that schedules are overall estimated.

The vast Piraeus Port has 12 gates. Ferries to Paros from Athens Piraeus Port typically depart from Gates E2, E6, E7, and E9. Still, you should always check the information written on your ticket and even confirm with the destination boards available around the port. What’s more, you should plan to arrive at the port 60-90 minutes before the sailing, keeping in mind that the traffic levels around the harbor as well as inside its premises might be high. On the other hand, if you opt for a ride to the harbor via means of public transit, it’s important to remember that depending on your vessel’s gate or the size of your luggage, you may have to take the free port shuttle or even a public bus line to reach your ferry’s departure point.

Fares and Tickets for Ferries from Athens to Paros

The tickets’ fares range depending on the chosen ferry, its traveling time, the selected seat, the time of the year, and several other factors. In general terms, if you choose the most affordable seating option, you should expect to pay about €50-€71/$54,30-$77,10, while children (5-10 years old) and passengers with disabilities are eligible for discounted tickets. On the other hand, younger kids travel for free. Please remember to print your ticket or save it on your mobile phone, as you’ll most probably be asked to hand it over or display it before boarding the ferry.

Ferry Companies with Routes from Piraeus to Paros

Routes and Fares of Ferry Companies from Piraeus to Paros

Each year, the ferry companies operating at the Port of Piraeus introduce new itineraries. Overall, they don’t differ significantly from the previous ones. In any case, if you want to have a general idea of the options, you can take a glimpse at the provided ferry routes from Athens to Paros at the moment:

Blue Star Ferries Routes from Piraeus to Paros

Seajets Routes from Piraeus to Paros

Fast Ferries Routes from Piraeus to Paros

A Flight or a Ferry from Athens to Paros?

Ferries to Paros from Athens are considered the most popular way to reach the cosmopolitan island. Still, air journeys are a widely preferred transit option as well. Athens International Airport lies fairly close to downtown (a 40-minute ride). Flights depart on a daily basis with Paros Airport as their destination, especially during the tourist season. So, what will be your choice? Will you travel to Paros via plane, or will you opt for a ferry ride to your journey’s end?

If you choose to fly from Athens to Paros, you’ll save a considerable amount of time. Verily, flights from ATH Airport to Paros last about 40 minutes, whereas the journey by ferry from Athens to Paros takes between 3 and 5 hours. Furthermore, unless you reserve a cabin or choose a business or VIP seating, you might experience a less relaxed journey, as ferries tend to get overcrowded during the peak tourist season. Conversely, air journeys are typically comfortable, even when the plane is flying at full capacity.

On the other hand, ferries to Paros from Athens Piraeus Port are a more widely chosen transit option. Indeed, travelers usually opt for a journey with a ferry from Piraeus to Paros as it is significantly more affordable. Moreover, they can transport their vehicles as well, making journeys much less tedious. Luggage is safely stored in the vehicle’s trunk, and a vehicle does not need to be rented upon reaching Paros. Furthermore, there are few luggage restrictions during ferry journeys. Ferries feature designated baggage storage space, and ferry companies usually set a 40-50kg/88-100 pound limit for luggage brought onboard. Finally, ferries have decks and plenty of outdoor space (high-speed ferries feature fewer outdoor areas). Thus, passengers can enjoy the sea breeze during their journey, basking in the sun and experiencing amazing views of the Aegean Sea.

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