The ferry from Athens to Paros is the most popular way to travel from the Greek capital to this stunning Cycladic island. Whether you’re visiting Paros for its golden beaches, traditional villages, or lively nightlife, taking the ferry allows you to enjoy the Aegean Sea while bringing your car, motorbike or extra luggage, something flights cannot offer.
With multiple daily departures from Piraeus and Rafina ports, travelers can choose between high-speed ferries for a faster trip or conventional ferries for a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience.
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 ferry tickets from Athens to Paros 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.
Why take the ferry from Athens to Paros?
- Affordable & convenient: More economical than flights, with multiple schedules per day
- Bring your vehicle: Travel with your car, motorbike or campervan
- Breathtaking views: Enjoy stunning Aegean landscapes and nearby islands
- Comfortable journey: Ferries offer lounges, restaurants and open decks
- Eco-friendly alternative: Lower carbon footprint compared to air travel
Travel tips for the ferry from Athens to Paros
- Book early during peak season (June-September) to secure the best prices
- Arrive on time to avoid last-minute stress
- Carry essentials, including sunglasses, sunscreen and a light jacket for windy crossings
- Bring motion sickness tablets if you’re sensitive to sea travel
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:
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 type, however, it typically ranges between 4 and 8 hours.
Click on Lavrio and get information on public transportation alternatives in town.