To get from Athens to Paros by ferry, you can take a ferry from the ports of Piraeus, Rafina or Lavrion in Athens. There are several ferry companies that operate this route, and the journey usually takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the type of ferry type you choose as well as the port. It's recommended to check the ferry schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability and secure your preferred departure time.
How do I get from Athens to Paros by ferry?
The appeal of Paros calls and a magnificent boat ride awaits! Here's an explanation of the processes required in taking the ferry boat from Athens to Paros, Greece:
Before the trip
- Choose your ferry port in Athens: Athens has two major ports that provide ferry service to Paros:
- Piraeus Port: This is the larger and busiest port, with many ferry departures to Paros throughout the day
- Rafina Port: Rafina Port, located east of Athens, is a smaller choice for ferries to Paros, particularly during high season
- Lavrio Port: The ferry route from Lavrio to Paros is seasonal and depends on the demand
- Choose your ferry company: Several ferry companies run the Athens (Piraeus or Rafina) to Paros route and provide a choice of alternatives
- Reserve your ferry tickets: Booking tickets ahead of time is highly suggested, especially during peak season (summer months) and on weekends
- Prepare your travel documents: For travel within Greece, you must have a valid passport or ID card (depending on your nationality)
Travel day
- Transportation to ferry port: Depending on your location in Athens, you may require a cab, metro, bus, or rideshare service to reach your preferred port (Piraeus or Rafina). Consider the travel time required to reach the port.
- Board the ferry to Paros and enjoy the sights of the Aegean Sea. The journey time varies based on the ship type and departure port:
- Conventional ferry from Piraeus: 3 to 4 hours
- Conventional ferry from Lavrio: 7 to 8 hours
- High-speed ferry from Piraeus: 2 to 3 hours
- High-speed ferry from Rafina: around 3 hours
- Arrival in Paros: Upon arrival at Paros Port (typically Parikia), disembark and follow the signage or ask port workers about onward transport choices inside Paros. Taxis and public buses are widely available.
General Tips
- When purchasing your ticket, please be sure to select the right departure port in Athens
- It is suggested that you purchase your ferry tickets in advance, particularly during peak season (June to September), when demand for ferry services is high
- To prevent a last-minute rush, plan to arrive at the port at least an hour before your scheduled departure time
- Two types of ferries operate: high-speed and conventional. High-speed ferries travel faster but cost more than traditional ferries
- Most ferries have a variety of amenities, such as cafes, restaurants and outdoor decks. Some ships even provide cabins for a more pleasant and private experience.
- Paros has two ports, Parikia and Naoussa. Make sure you know the port where your ferry arrives and plan your transportation appropriately.
- Taxis are widely accessible at the dock and prices to most areas on the island are inexpensive. Buses are also a practical and economical means of transportation, with regular service between the island's major towns and villages.
From which port of Athens can I travel to Paros?
If you are wondering from which port of Athens you can depart towards the island of Paros, we can gladly inform you that you have three choices (Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio) since the particular ferry route is quite popular in the summer season.
Piraeus to Paros
Travel to Paros from Athens' Piraeus port. This is Athens' primary port, located about 15 kilometers south of the city center. You may easily reach Piraeus from Athens by metro, bus, taxi, or tram. This is the most common and convenient route to travel from Piraeus to Paros. Several ferry companies operate on this route, with varying trip times and pricing. The voyage takes between 3 and 5 hours, depending on whether you take a high-speed or ordinary ferry.
Click on Piraeus and get information about public transportation options in the city for you to reach the port.
Rafina to Paros
You can also get from Rafina to Paros. It's a popular ferry route as well, with numerous departures every day. The journey from Rafina to Paros takes between 3.5 and 6 hours, depending on the ferry operator and route chosen (straight vs. stopover).
Click on Rafina and get details about the available public transportation options for you to reach the port.
Lavrio to Paros
You may also get from Lavrio to Paros. The trip time varies depending on the ferry, however, it typically ranges between 7 and 7 hours and 45 minutes.
Click on Lavrio and get information on public transportation alternatives in town.
What is the ferry distance between Athens and Paros?
- From the port of Piraeus: 102 nautical miles (189 kilometers)
- From the port of Rafina: 85 nautical miles (157 kilometers)
- From the port of Lavrio: 56 nautical miles (103 kilometers)
Useful information
Athens, Greece's capital, is rich in history, culture and lively energy. Immerse yourself with the origins of Western civilization. Explore prominent sights such as the Acropolis, Parthenon Temple and Agora, which are reminders of Athens' magnificent past. Athens isn't simply about the ancient ruins. Explore colorful neighborhoods such as Plaka, which has attractive streets and stores, or walk through the Psiri district, which is famed for its nightlife and fashionable bars. Explore history and art at world-renowned museums such as the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum. Tempt your taste buds with delectable Greek cuisine. Enjoy fresh seafood, meze (small dishes) and local favorites such as souvlaki and gyros. Take a day excursion to Cape Sounio to see the Temple of Poseidon, or stop by Delphi, an ancient sanctuary regarded as the "navel of the world." Discover hidden jewels such as the Anafiotika area, which features whitewashed buildings, or Philopappos Hill, which offers panoramic city views. Athens provides solutions for all budgets. Explore free ancient sites, stroll through attractive neighborhoods and bring a picnic for a low-cost yet enjoyable excursion.
On the other hand, Paros is a must-see trip in Greece. It is a magnificent island in the Aegean Sea noted for its stunning beaches, attractive villages and rich history. The island is a popular destination for tourists and locals, offering the ideal balance of relaxation, adventure and culture.
Paros' classic Cycladic architecture, with whitewashed dwellings, tiny alleyways and sugar cube-like structures, provides a picture-perfect Greek island experience. From the iconic Golden Beach to quiet coves, Paros' golden sands and crystal-clear waters appeal to all beachgoers. Explore picturesque settlements such as Lefkes, a hillside village with breathtaking vistas and Naoussa, a port town famous for its Venetian elegance. Paros serves exquisite Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood specialties and local delicacies. The island offers a variety of entertainment options, including bustling pubs and open-air clubs, particularly in Naoussa and Parikia, the major town. Explore surrounding islands such as Antiparos for a more peaceful vacation, or Delos, an uninhabited island noted for its archaeological remains.