Greece › Ferries › Athens to Mykonos
Updated: May 11, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
Questions? dave@santorinidave.com
The Athens to Mykonos ferry is one of the highest frequency summer routes in Greece. Ferries from Piraeus port to Mykonos take 3 to 5 hours. Ferries from Rafina port to Mykonos take 2 to 4 hours. High-speed ferries are faster but more enclosed and bumpier in windy weather. Larger conventional ferries are slower but cheaper, steadier, and more comfortable if you want outdoor decks or are worried about seasickness.
Which port? Travelers should use Piraeus if they are staying in central Athens the night before, and use Rafina if they are landing at Athens Airport and going straight to Mykonos.
See Also
Helpful Links
- How I buy ferry tickets: Ferryhopper.com
- Pre-booked taxi service: Welcome Pickups
If You Only Read 5 Things
- Choose the right Athens port. Use Piraeus if you are staying in central Athens. Use Rafina if you are landing at Athens Airport and going straight to Mykonos. Rafina is much closer to the airport.
- Book early for summer. Athens to Mykonos ferries rarely sell out months in advance, but the best morning ferries, cheapest seats, and business/VIP seats can sell out in June, July, August, and early September.
- Fastest is not always best. High-speed ferries save time, but they are more enclosed and can be uncomfortable in strong winds. Large conventional ferries are slower but steadier, cheaper, and better for travelers with kids, strollers, or seasickness concerns.
- E-tickets. All Athens to Mykonos ferries use digital tickets, but you need to complete online check-in before the QR-code boarding pass is issued. Save the QR code to your phone before going to the port.
- No close connections. Leave a generous buffer before flights, tours, hotel transfers, or dinner reservations. Greek ferries are generally reliable, but delays, wind, luggage, taxis, and port crowds can all add time and uncertainty.
The Piraeus Ferry Port is 30 to 45 minutes by taxi or metro from central Athens in normal traffic. Ferries to Mykonos commonly depart from the Cyclades gates around E6, E7, and E8, but always check your ticket and the port signs on the day of travel. Tickets can be purchased at the port, but it is better to buy ferry tickets in advance, especially in summer.
Best Way to Book Athens to Mykonos Ferry Tickets
The easiest way to book Athens to Mykonos ferry tickets is to compare both Piraeus and Rafina on the same search. I use Ferryhopper because it shows ferry companies, ports, departure times, ticket classes, prices, e-ticket options, and travel times in one place.
- Best port from central Athens: Piraeus.
- Best port from Athens Airport: Rafina.
- Best ferry for speed: A high-speed ferry, from SeaJets. The Terra Jet does Rafina to Mykonos in under 2 hours.
- Best ferry for comfort: A large conventional ferry, Blue Star or a similar full-size vessel.
- Best ticket class for most travelers: Reserved air seat on conventional ferries, or standard economy on high-speed ferries.
- Best booking window: As soon as your dates are fixed for June through early September. A month ahead is fine for shoulder season, but 3 to 4 months in advance is best for summer.
Athens to Mykonos Ferry Tickets: Quick Answers
- How long does it take? 2 to 5 hours, depending on the port, route, vessel, and season.
- How much does it cost? Conventional ferries are cheaper; high-speed ferries cost more. Expect a wide range, starting from €40 to €100+, depending on vessel, port, and seat class.
- Do I need to print my ticket? No, but you must follow the ferry company’s check-in instructions and save your QR-code boarding pass before going to the port.
- Are there ferries every day? In summer, there are several ferries every day from both Piraeus and Rafina. In winter, just Piraeus.
- Can I buy tickets at the port? Yes, but I do not recommend it in summer. Buy in advance if your plans are fixed.
Ferries from Athens to Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the easiest Cycladic islands to reach from Athens. Ferries depart from both Piraeus, the main Athens port, and Rafina, the port closest to Athens Airport.
- High-speed ferries: 2 to 3.5 hours. They are faster, but seating is indoors and the ride can feel rough in windy weather.
- Conventional ferries: 4.5 to 5.5 hours. They are slower, but cheaper, more stable, and better for outdoor deck space.
In high season, there are multiple ferries per day between Athens and Mykonos, especially from late spring through early autumn. In winter, service is reduced, and Piraeus is the more reliable port to check first. Schedules are seasonal and may not appear on booking sites until 3 or 4 months before travel, so do not panic if you cannot see a full July schedule in January.
Piraeus to Mykonos Ferry Tickets
Piraeus is the best Athens port for Mykonos if you are staying in central Athens before departure. It is easy to reach from Plaka, Monastiraki, Syntagma, Psirri, Koukaki, Kolonaki, and most central Athens neighborhoods by metro, taxi, or private transfer.
- Best for: Travelers sleeping in Athens the night before the ferry.
- Typical travel time: 3 to 5 hours, depending on the ferry.
- Transport from central Athens: Metro, taxi, Uber taxi, or private transfer.
- Port gates: Mykonos ferries commonly use the Cyclades gates around E6, E7, and E8, but always confirm your exact gate on your ticket and at the port.
- Best practical tip: Arrive early enough to find your gate, use the bathroom, buy water or coffee, and board without rushing.
Piraeus is the more useful port if you want the widest range of ferries, are traveling outside the main summer season, or want the simplest public transport connection from central Athens.
Rafina to Mykonos Ferry Tickets
Rafina is the better port if you are landing at Athens Airport and going directly to Mykonos. It is much closer to the airport than Piraeus, and the taxi transfer is simpler and less stressful.
- Best for: Travelers arriving at Athens Airport and going straight to Mykonos.
- Typical travel time: Just under 2 up to 3.5 hours, depending on ferry, season, and route.
- Transport from Athens Airport: Taxi or pre-booked transfer is easiest.
- Transport from central Athens: Possible, but less convenient than Piraeus.
- Best practical tip: If your flight arrives early enough and a Rafina ferry works with your schedule, it can save a lot of cross-city travel time.
Rafina is especially useful in spring, summer, and early autumn, when there are more island departures. In winter or very early/late season, check Piraeus first because service from Rafina can be limited.
Can I Go from Athens Airport to Mykonos by Ferry the Same Day?
Yes, if your flight lands early enough and you choose the right port. If you are flying into Athens and going straight to Mykonos, check Rafina departures first. Rafina is much closer to the airport than Piraeus and is the easiest same-day ferry connection.
For a Rafina ferry, I want at least 2.5 hours between scheduled flight arrival and ferry departure. For a Piraeus ferry, I want at least 4 hours, and more if you are checking bags, arriving from outside the Schengen Area, traveling in July or August, or nervous about delays.
If your flight lands in the afternoon, it’s smarter to stay one night in Athens and take a morning ferry the next day.
Recommended Buffer Times
- Airport to Rafina: 30 to 40 minutes by taxi in normal traffic, plus time for luggage, delays, and boarding.
- Airport to Piraeus: 60 to 90 minutes by metro, taxi, or private transfer, plus at least 60 minutes at the port.
- Central Athens to Piraeus: 30 to 45 minutes by metro or taxi in normal conditions, plus port time.
- Central Athens to Rafina: 60 to 90 minutes by taxi or transfer, depending on traffic and where you are staying.
How Do I Buy Athens to Mykonos Ferry Tickets?
The easiest method is to search both Athens ports, compare the ferries, choose your ticket class, and complete online check-in when it opens. I use Ferryhopper because it lets you compare Piraeus, Rafina, ferry companies, departure times, prices, and ticket classes in one search.
Ferryhopper shows vessel length and passenger capacity for most ferries. Smaller catamarans wll be faster, but if you’re worried about seasickness, choose the largest ferry available. Ferries over 80m long and carrying 800+ passengers will feel more stable than the smaller 40m to 50m catamarans.
- Step 1: Search Athens to Mykonos for your exact travel date.
- Step 2: Compare Piraeus and Rafina. Do not assume Piraeus is always best.
- Step 3: Choose high-speed for speed or conventional ferry for comfort and stability. Compare ferry size; the bigger the ferry the more stable the ride.
- Step 4: Choose your ticket class. Economy is fine for most travelers, but reserved air seats or business class can be worth it on longer or peak-season trips.
- Step 5: Complete online check-in when it opens, 24 to 48 hours before departure. Follow the exact instructions in your confirmation email.
- Step 6: Save your QR-code boarding pass to your phone and take a screenshot before going to the port.
Do I Need to Print My Athens to Mykonos Ferry Ticket?
Usually, no. Most Athens to Mykonos ferries now support e-tickets and QR-code boarding passes. But the process is not exactly the same for every ferry company, so always read your confirmation email carefully.
- Online check-in: Opens about 48 hours before departure, but the timing can vary by ferry company and ticket type.
- Boarding pass: After check-in, you should receive or generate a QR-code boarding pass.
- At the ferry: Crew scan your QR code as you board. Keep your passport or government-issued ID with you.
- Backup plan: Save the QR code to Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or your photo roll. Do not rely on port Wi-Fi or mobile data.
How Much Do Athens to Mykonos Ferry Tickets Cost?
Athens to Mykonos ferry prices vary by port, ferry company, vessel type, season, and ticket class. Greek ferry prices are much less dynamic than airline fares, but the cheapest seats on popular summer departures can sell out.
- Conventional ferries: The cheapest option. Economy tickets start at €40 to €50, depending on route, port, and season.
- High-speed ferries: Faster but more expensive. Economy tickets start at €50 from Rafina and €100 from Piraeus, with business/VIP seats costing more.
- Business/VIP seats: Worth considering on high-speed ferries if you want more space, quieter seating, and easier boarding/disembarking.
- Children, students, residents, and vehicles: Discounts and vehicle fares vary by company and ticket type. Check the rules before booking.
For most travelers, the best value is either a large conventional ferry with a reserved air seat or the cheapest high-speed ferry that fits your schedule and comfort level.
When Are Athens to Mykonos Ferry Schedules Released?
Athens to Mykonos ferry schedules are seasonal. Some year-round routes appear early, while many summer high-speed schedules are added later in winter or spring. If you are checking too early and do not see many ferries, that means the schedule is not complete yet, not that ferries are sold out.
- Winter: Fewer ferries, with Piraeus the better port to check first.
- Spring: More ferries start appearing as the island season builds.
- Summer: The most departures, highest prices, and greatest demand.
- Autumn: Good service through much of September, with schedules gradually reducing later in the season.
Example Athens to Mykonos Schedule
Example Piraeus to Mykonos ferry schedule on Ferryhopper.com. This is an example, not a live timetable. Ferry times change by season, day of week, ferry company, and weather.
Example Rafina to Mykonos ferry schedule on Ferryhopper.com. This is an example, not a live timetable. Ferry times change by season, day of week, ferry company, and weather.
Which Athens to Mykonos Ferry Should You Book?
- Book the fastest ferry if you want to maximize time on Mykonos and do not mind indoor assigned seating.
- Book a large conventional ferry if you get seasick, are traveling with children, have lots of luggage, or want outdoor decks.
- Book Rafina if you are coming directly from Athens Airport and the departure time works.
- Book Piraeus if you are staying in central Athens or traveling outside peak season.
- Book a morning ferry if you want the least stressful travel day and more backup options if something goes wrong.
Ticket Classes Explained
- Economy on conventional ferries: Means deck/lounge access rather than a specific reserved seat. You sit in public lounges, cafés, or outdoor areas where available. It is fine for budget travelers, but seating is first-come, first-served.
- Air seat on conventional ferries: A reserved, numbered, airplane-style seat in an indoor lounge. This is the best-value upgrade on longer ferry rides.
- Economy on high-speed ferries: Includes an assigned indoor seat. You generally stay inside for the full trip.
- Business/VIP: Quieter seating areas with more space. Worth considering on high-speed ferries, in peak summer, or if you want a calmer boarding and arrival experience.
Seasickness and Stability
The Athens to Mykonos route crosses open Aegean water, and the ride can be rough when the Meltemi winds blow, especially in July and August. High-speed ferries can feel bumpier because they are lighter and faster. Larger conventional ferries are steadier.
- If you get seasick: Choose a larger conventional ferry when possible.
- Where to sit: Midship and lower decks are the most stable parts of the ferry.
- Medication: If you use motion-sickness medication, take it before departure according to the package instructions or your doctor’s advice.
- Best practical advice: Eat lightly, avoid too much alcohol the night before, and keep water with you.
Luggage, Strollers, and Accessibility
- Luggage: There are no airline-style weight limits for normal passenger luggage. Large bags are left in luggage racks or designated areas near the vehicle deck or ferry entrance. Keep valuables, passports, medication, laptops, and fragile items with you.
- Strollers: Larger conventional ferries are easier with strollers because boarding is less cramped and there is more room to move around.
- Accessibility: Large ferries are better for travelers with mobility issues, but facilities vary by vessel. Contact the ferry company before booking if accessibility is essential.
- Wi-Fi and power: Sometimes available, but do not count on either. Download tickets, maps, hotel details, and entertainment before boarding.
How To Get To Piraeus Port
From Athens City Center
- Metro: Take Line 3 from Syntagma or Line 1 and 3 from Monastiraki to Piraeus. From there, walk to the Cyclades gates or follow port signage to your exact departure point.
- Taxi/Uber: 25 to 45 minutes from central Athens in normal traffic. Uber in Athens dispatches regular licensed taxis.
- Private transfer: Best if you have lots of luggage, an early ferry, children, or a tight schedule.
- Arrival time: I like to be at Piraeus about 45 minutes before departure, and earlier if traveling with a vehicle or in peak summer.
Taking the metro from central Athens to the Piraeus ferry port.
From Athens Airport
- Metro Line 3: Direct service from Athens Airport to Piraeus. Allow about 60 minutes on the train, plus time to reach the platform, wait for the train, and walk to your ferry gate.
- Taxi or private transfer: Faster and easier with luggage, but traffic can be heavy. Expect the trip to take about 60 to 90 minutes depending on conditions.
- Better airport option: If a Rafina ferry works for your timing, Rafina is easier from the airport than Piraeus.
How To Get To Rafina Port
Rafina is the most useful Athens port for Mykonos if you are landing at Athens Airport and going straight to the ferry. It is not as convenient from central Athens, but from the airport it can be a much better choice than crossing the city to Piraeus.
- From Athens Airport: Taxi or pre-booked transfer is easiest and takes 30 to 40 minutes in normal traffic.
- From central Athens: Taxi or private transfer is simplest and takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic.
- Arrival time: Be at Rafina at least 45 minutes before departure in summer, especially if you need to locate your vessel, collect information, or travel with luggage.
- Best use case: Airport arrival in the morning, ferry to Mykonos later the same day.
How Do I Get from the Mykonos Ferry Port to My Hotel?
All Athens ferries arrive at the New Port in Tourlos, not directly in Mykonos Town.
- To Mykonos Town: Take the SeaBus from the New Port to the Old Port. It costs only a few euros, takes about 10 minutes, and drops you beside Mykonos Town.
- To Ornos, Platis Gialos, Psarou, Paradise, Elia, or Agios Ioannis: Pre-book a hotel transfer, taxi, or rental car. The SeaBus is useful for Mykonos Town, but not for beach hotels.
- Hotel shuttles: Send your hotel your ferry company, vessel name, departure port, and scheduled arrival time. Do not send “arriving from Athens,” because there will be several Athens ferries on the same day.
- Rental cars and ATVs: Pre-book for port pickup if you want a vehicle immediately. In summer, do not assume you can arrange a good rental at the last minute on arrival.
- Taxis/Uber: Limited and in high demand when ferries arrive. Pre-booking is strongly recommended if you are going anywhere other than Mykonos Town.
Should I Fly or Ferry from Athens to Mykonos?
Fly if you are in a hurry, connecting through Athens Airport, traveling outside ferry-friendly hours, or very prone to seasickness. Take the ferry if you are staying in Athens first, island-hopping, carrying lots of luggage, want to avoid airport security, or prefer the more scenic Greek island arrival.
- Ferry advantage: Easier luggage, scenic arrival, better for island-hopping, and no airport-style security process.
- Flight advantage: Fastest total travel time if the schedule works and you are already at the airport.
- My advice: Ferry from Athens if you are already in the city. Consider flying if you are connecting through Athens Airport and the ferry times are awkward.
Large conventional ferries are the most comfortable option from Athens to Mykonos, especially in windy weather.
There is a direct metro connection between Athens International Airport and Piraeus, though Rafina is the easier port from the airport if the ferry schedule works.
Public buses meet some arriving ferries, but they can be very crowded in summer.
The SeaBus is a faster and more scenic way to reach Mykonos Town than waiting for a taxi or bus.
The Worldchampion Jet is one of the fast high-speed ferries that can appear on Athens to Mykonos routes.
Economy seats on high-speed ferries are reserved and numbered.
Business and VIP lounges offer more space and a quieter trip, especially useful on busy summer sailings.
Athens to Mykonos Ferry FAQ
What is the best website to book Athens to Mykonos ferry tickets?
I use Ferryhopper because it lets you compare Piraeus, Rafina, ferry companies, departure times, ticket classes, prices, and e-ticket options in one search.
Is Piraeus or Rafina better for Mykonos?
Piraeus is better if you are staying in central Athens. Rafina is better if you are arriving at Athens Airport and going straight to Mykonos.
How long is the ferry from Athens to Mykonos?
The fastest ferries take 2 to 3.5 hours. Slower conventional ferries take 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
How much are Athens to Mykonos ferry tickets?
Prices vary by route, ferry company, vessel, season, and ticket class. Conventional ferries are cheaper, starting at €40 (from Rafina) to €50 (from Piraeus) and getting more expensive for reserved seats and business class. High-speed ferries cost more, start at €50 (from Rafina) to €100 (from Piraeus) and increase for premium seats.
Do Athens to Mykonos ferries run year-round?
There is year-round ferry service from Piraeus to Mykonos, but frequency is much higher from spring through autumn. Rafina service is more seasonal.
Do I need to book Athens to Mykonos ferry tickets in advance?
Yes for summer, especially June through early September. You do not always need to book months ahead, but popular morning ferries, cheaper economy seats, and business/VIP seats can sell out.
Can I take a ferry directly from Athens Airport to Mykonos?
No. Athens Airport does not have a ferry port. The closest port is Rafina, which is the best choice if you are landing at the airport and going directly to Mykonos.
Should I fly or take the ferry from Athens to Mykonos?
Fly if you are short on time or connecting through Athens Airport. Take the ferry if you are staying in Athens first, island-hopping, carrying lots of luggage, or want the more scenic Greek island arrival.
Which Athens to Mykonos ferry is best for seasickness?
Choose a large conventional ferry when possible. High-speed ferries are faster, but they can feel rougher in windy weather.
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