Piraeus Ferry Port: Hotels, Maps & Transportation

Greece › Athens › Piraeus Port
Updated: October 22, 2026 • By Santorini Dave

Piraeus Port: Quick Guide

Piraeus is the main ferry port for Athens, with ferries to Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Crete, and many other Greek islands. It’s easy to reach by Metro from central Athens and the airport, but the port is enormous. Knowing your ferry gate before you arrive is essential.

• From Central Athens: Take Metro Line 3 from Syntagma or Monastiraki directly to Piraeus. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs €1.20.
• From Athens Airport: Metro Line 3 goes directly to Piraeus in about 60 minutes and costs €9. Airport trains run approximately every 36 minutes.
• Late-Night Airport Transfers: The X96 express bus operates 24 hours a day between Athens Airport and Piraeus. Tickets cost €5.50.
• Taxi or Private Transfer: Best with heavy luggage, small children, or limited mobility. Drivers can take you much closer to your ferry than the Metro station, particularly for the more distant gates.
• Ferry Gates: Check your gate before traveling. The walk from the Metro to some ferries is short, but others are more than 20 minutes away on foot.
• Arrival Time: I recommend arriving at Piraeus about one hour before departure, especially if it’s your first visit. Arrive earlier if traveling with a vehicle.
• Ferry Tickets: I use Ferryhopper to compare ferry schedules and book tickets.
• Best Hotel for an Early Ferry: The Port Square Hotel, directly opposite the port and beside Piraeus Metro station.

Where Is Piraeus Port?

Piraeus is about 10 to 12 km southwest of central Athens and approximately 40 km by road from Athens International Airport.

The Metro is the easiest way to reach the port from central Athens. Both Metro Lines 1 and 3 serve Piraeus, and Line 3 connects directly with Athens Airport.

Piraeus or Rafina?

Piraeus has the widest selection of ferry routes, including services to the Cyclades, Crete, Dodecanese, and Saronic Islands.

Rafina, on the east coast of Attica, is closer to Athens Airport and can be a better choice for travelers heading directly to Mykonos, Tinos, or Andros.

Rafina is approximately 20 to 30 minutes from the airport by taxi in normal traffic. KTEL buses also connect the airport with Rafina.

If you’re staying in central Athens, Piraeus is generally more convenient. If you’re landing at Athens Airport and continuing immediately to Mykonos, compare ferry departures from both ports.

Piraeus Port Map and Ferry Gates

Piraeus is one of the largest passenger ports in Europe. The distance between gates is substantial, and going to the wrong gate can mean a long walk with luggage.

Which Gate Does My Ferry Leave From?

Ferry gates are generally grouped by destination, but assignments can change.

• Cyclades: Ferries to Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Milos commonly use E4, E6, E7, E9, or E10.
• Crete: Ferries to Heraklion and Chania commonly use E2 and E3.
• Dodecanese: Ferries to Rhodes, Kos, and nearby islands commonly use E1.
• Saronic Islands: Ferries to Aegina, Hydra, Poros, and Spetses commonly use E8.
• Cruise Ships: Cruise terminals are at the southern end of the port, near E11 and E12, well away from the main ferry and Metro areas.

Always confirm your gate for your specific sailing. Check your ferry company’s information and the electronic signs at the port. Don’t rely entirely on a map or a gate used by the same route previously.

Getting Around Piraeus Port

The Piraeus Metro and railway stations are opposite the main port entrance near E5 and E6.

Ferries departing from nearby gates are easy to reach on foot. For distant gates, particularly E1, E2, and E3, the walk can be long and unpleasant with luggage.

The port operates a free internal shuttle connecting passenger areas. Follow the signs for the port shuttle and check its current route and stops when you arrive.

Taxis can also take passengers closer to their ships. If you’re using a taxi or private transfer, give the driver your ferry company, destination, and gate number.

Getting from Central Athens to Piraeus

For most travelers, the Metro is the best way to reach Piraeus from central Athens. It’s inexpensive, reliable, and avoids traffic.

A taxi is better if you have heavy luggage, limited mobility, or a ferry departing from one of the distant gates.

Metro from Athens to Piraeus

• From Syntagma: Take Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) toward Dimotiko Theatro. Get off at Piraeus, one stop before the end.
• From Monastiraki: Take Line 3 toward Dimotiko Theatro. Line 1 (Green Line) also runs directly to Piraeus.
• From Omonia: Take Line 1 toward Piraeus, the final stop.
• From Acropoli: Take Line 2 to Syntagma, then change to Line 3 toward Dimotiko Theatro.
• Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes from Syntagma or Monastiraki, depending on the line and waiting time.
• Ticket: €1.20 for a standard 90-minute ticket.
• Arrival: Piraeus station is opposite the port entrance near E5 and E6.

How to Pay for the Athens Metro

You can buy a €1.20 ticket at a station machine or tap a contactless Visa or Mastercard directly at the Metro gate. Apple Pay and Google Pay also work.

Use the same card or device when entering and exiting. Each passenger paying contactless needs their own card or device.

The standard ticket is valid for 90 minutes and allows transfers within the regular Athens public-transport network. It does not cover travel to Athens Airport or the X80 express bus.

Taxi from Athens to Piraeus

A taxi is convenient with luggage or when your ferry leaves from a distant gate.

Allow approximately 25 to 45 minutes from central Athens, depending on traffic and your exact pickup location.

Taxis use meters for this journey. Uber and FREENOW operate in Athens using licensed taxis.

For a pre-booked transfer, I use Welcome Pickups. Give the driver your ferry company and gate so you’re dropped near the correct ship.

Getting from Athens Airport to Piraeus

Metro Line 3 is my first choice for most travelers. It connects Athens Airport directly with Piraeus without a transfer.

If you’re arriving late at night, the X96 airport bus runs 24 hours. With several suitcases or young children, a taxi or private transfer may be easier.

Airport Metro to Piraeus

• Travel Time: Approximately 60 minutes.
• Fare: €9 one-way.
• Frequency: Approximately every 36 minutes.
• From the Airport: Take Line 3 toward Dimotiko Theatro and get off at Piraeus.
• To the Airport: Board a Line 3 train displaying Airport as its destination. Not every Line 3 train continues to the airport.
• Payment: Buy an airport Metro ticket or tap a contactless bank card, phone, or smartwatch at the gate.

Important: If you’re traveling from Piraeus to Athens Airport, check the destination display before boarding. Most Line 3 trains do not continue all the way to the airport.

X96 Airport Bus

The X96 is the cheapest direct connection between Athens Airport and Piraeus. It’s also the best public-transport option when the Metro isn’t running.

• Fare: €5.50 one-way.
• Travel Time: Usually about 75 to 90 minutes, longer in heavy traffic.
• Hours: Operates 24 hours a day.
• Airport Stop: Outside the Arrivals terminal.
• Piraeus Stop: Near the Metro station and main port entrance.

The regular €1.20 public-transport ticket is not valid on the X96. You need an airport express bus ticket or can pay contactless.

Taxi from Athens Airport to Piraeus

A taxi is easiest with heavy luggage or when you want to be dropped directly at your ferry.

The journey usually takes about 45 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic.

Unlike airport taxis to central Athens, the trip to Piraeus does not have the central Athens fixed fare. The fare is metered, with applicable airport, luggage, toll, and nighttime charges where relevant.

Official taxis wait outside the airport Arrivals terminal. You can also arrange a pre-booked transfer through Welcome Pickups.

Suburban Railway from Athens Airport to Piraeus

The Proastiakos suburban railway also connects Athens Airport with Piraeus.

• Fare: €9.
• Travel Time: Approximately 65 minutes.
• Frequency: Generally hourly.

I usually recommend Metro Line 3 because it runs more frequently. The suburban railway is worth considering if its departure time works better for your schedule.

Piraeus Cruise Port Transportation

Cruise passengers use a different part of Piraeus from most Greek island ferries.

The cruise terminals are at the southern end of the port, near E11 and E12, a considerable distance from the main Metro station.

For cruise passengers heading into central Athens, I recommend a taxi, private transfer, or the seasonal X80 express bus.

X80 Cruise Port Express Bus

The X80 connects the Piraeus cruise terminals with central Athens, including stops near the Acropolis and Syntagma Square.

• Fare: €4.10 for a 24-hour public-transport ticket.
• Alternative Ticket: The €20 three-day tourist ticket is also valid.
• Standard Ticket: The regular €1.20 ticket is not valid on the X80.
• Season: Operates seasonally, generally from late spring through October.
• Frequency: Approximately every 30 to 40 minutes when operating.

The X80 is particularly useful for cruise passengers visiting Athens independently. Check the current operating dates and timetable before relying on it.

Piraeus Ferry Tickets

Should I Book Ferry Tickets in Advance?

Yes, particularly from June through September.

Large conventional ferries have substantial capacity, but high-speed ferries, reserved seats, cabins, and vehicle spaces can sell out.

I use Ferryhopper to compare schedules, routes, and prices.

Do Greek Ferries Have E-Tickets?

Most major Greek ferry companies offer electronic boarding passes.

After booking, complete online check-in when available and save your boarding pass to your phone. If your ferry company issues a QR-code boarding pass, you can normally go directly to the ship.

Check the instructions on your booking confirmation. Some tickets still require collection or additional check-in.

How Early Should I Arrive at Piraeus?

I recommend arriving about one hour before departure.

If you know the port, have your boarding pass, and are traveling without a vehicle, 30 to 45 minutes may be sufficient. But I would allow more time on a first visit.

Piraeus is large, ferry gates can change, and getting to the wrong gate with luggage can cause problems.

If you’re taking a car onto the ferry, follow the company’s earlier check-in instructions.

Where Are the Ferry Ticket Offices?

Ferry-company offices and travel agencies are concentrated around the main port, especially near the Metro station and Cyclades departure gates.

If you already have a valid electronic boarding pass, you can usually go straight to your ferry.

Piraeus Ferry Schedules

Ferry schedules vary substantially by season. Summer has the most frequent departures, while winter services are reduced on many routes.

I use Ferryhopper to check current departures and compare ferry companies.

Popular Ferry Routes from Piraeus

• Athens to Mykonos
• Athens to Santorini
• Athens to Naxos
• Athens to Paros
• Athens to Milos
• Athens to Crete

Where to Stay Near Piraeus Port

If you have an early-morning ferry, I recommend staying in Piraeus the night before. You’ll avoid an early Metro ride or taxi from central Athens.

For an early departure, stay close to the ferry port and Metro station.

If you have time to enjoy Piraeus, Kastella, Zea Marina, and Mikrolimano are more attractive areas, with waterfront restaurants and marina views. You’ll need a taxi to reach most ferry gates.

Best Piraeus Hotels

• The Port Square Hotel
  Best hotel for an early ferry. Modern rooms, comfortable beds, good soundproofing, and an unbeatable location directly opposite the port and beside Piraeus Metro station. Some rooms have port views. My first choice when ferry convenience matters most.
• The Alex
  Best overall hotel in Piraeus. Stylish boutique hotel in Kastella with excellent rooftop views over Mikrolimano. The neighborhood is much more attractive than the main ferry-port area, with good restaurants nearby. You’ll need a taxi to the ferry port.
• Phidias Piraeus Hotel
  Best value. Comfortable modern rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location near Zea Marina. The hotel offers a complimentary local shuttle service that is particularly useful for ferry passengers. Confirm availability and pickup arrangements directly with the hotel.
• Piraeus City Hotel
  Good-value hotel close to the port, with modern rooms and a rooftop restaurant. A practical choice for a one-night stay before or after a ferry.
• Hotel Achillon
  Basic, inexpensive accommodation close to the ferry port. Best for travelers who prioritize price and location over amenities.
• Maryflower Premium Apartments
  Spacious apartments with kitchens and larger layouts. A good choice for families who need more room than a standard hotel provides.
• Piraeus Theoxenia
  Traditional upscale hotel with spacious rooms and suites in central Piraeus. Convenient for the port, though the decor is less contemporary than newer hotels.
• Piraeus Port Hotel
  Comfortable midrange hotel within walking distance of the port and Metro. A reliable option for a short stay.
• Piraeus Premium Suites
  Individually designed suites near the Archaeological Museum and Zea Marina. Better for enjoying Piraeus than for walking to an early ferry.
• Mitsis N’U Piraeus Port
  Upscale modern hotel near the port and railway station. A good choice for travelers wanting more comfort while remaining close to the ferries.
• Athenarum Portus Life & Style Hotel
  Stylish boutique hotel near the port and station, with contemporary rooms and suites. Good combination of comfort and location.
• Gallery Central Piraeus Port
  Modern hotel close to the Metro and railway station. Convenient for ferry passengers who want a comfortable hotel with more amenities than a basic overnight stop.
• Gallery Port Tower Piraeus
  Contemporary upscale hotel near the main port area, with spacious rooms and modern facilities.

Luggage Storage at Piraeus Port

There are staffed luggage-storage businesses around Piraeus station and the main port entrance.

These are useful if you arrive on a morning ferry and want to explore Piraeus or central Athens before checking into your hotel.

Check opening hours carefully, especially if you’re collecting luggage late in the evening.

If you’re staying at a hotel in Piraeus, ask whether it can store your bags before check-in or after check-out. This is usually the easiest option.

Best Restaurants in Piraeus

Piraeus has some excellent restaurants, particularly around Mikrolimano, Zea Marina, and Peiraiki. If you’re staying overnight, I would eat outside the immediate ferry-port area.

• Varoulko Seaside: My top choice for a special dinner. Excellent seafood and a beautiful waterfront setting in Mikrolimano. Expensive, but worth it.
• Paleo Wine Bar: Excellent wine bar in a former warehouse near the port. Extensive wine list and very good food.
• Abakos Steakhouse: Casual, stylish steakhouse close to the port. Good grilled meats and reasonable prices.
• Arlekinos: Cozy taverna serving Greek classics, grilled meats, and Cretan dishes.
• Stoa Rakadiko: Atmospheric taverna near the port, with Greek dishes and plenty of choices for vegetarians.
• Street Souvlaki: My favorite quick meal near the port. Good souvlaki, inexpensive, and convenient before a ferry.
• Bread Factory: Excellent for an early ferry. Coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and snacks close to the port.
• Yperokeanio: One of my favorite seafood tavernas in Piraeus, with old-school nautical decor and plenty of character.
• Margaro: Famous traditional fish taverna near the cruise-port side of Piraeus. The simple menu focuses on fried fish, shrimp, and Greek salad.
• Hams and Clams: Waterfront seafood and wine bar near Zea Marina. Excellent for ceviche, oysters, and cocktails.
• Aposperitis Maereio: Family-run taverna in Peiraiki serving excellent home-style Greek food.

Things to Do in Piraeus

If you have a few hours before a ferry, I would spend them around Zea Marina, Mikrolimano, or Peiraiki rather than trying to squeeze in central Athens.

• Archaeological Museum of Piraeus: Small but worthwhile museum with impressive ancient bronze statues, pottery, and sculptures. Near Zea Marina.
• Hellenic Maritime Museum: Exhibits on Greek maritime history, naval vessels, maps, and ship models. Best for visitors interested in ships and naval history.
• Zea Marina (Pasalimani): Pleasant waterfront area with yachts, cafés, restaurants, and shops. Good for a relaxed walk or lunch.
• Mikrolimano: Attractive small marina lined with seafood restaurants. One of the nicest places in Piraeus for an evening meal.
• Peiraiki: Coastal neighborhood with sea views and traditional fish tavernas. Particularly enjoyable around sunset.

Piraeus Port Video

See Also

• Where to Stay in Athens
• Best Hotels in Athens
• Athens Family Hotels
• My Greek Ferry Guide