Athens Naxos Ferry & Flight options

Naxos can be reached by ferry or airplane from Athens. Below, you will find information on how to get from one destination to the other.

Table of contents:
• Ferry • Plane • Island-hopping packages • Map

With its golden beaches and picturesque villages, Naxos is one of the top Cycladic destinations to visit if you want to get a taste of the Aegean Sea. It combines modernity with authenticity, sea and mountains, and tranquility with liveliness.

The main port of Naxos in Naxos Town is connected to the ferry ports of Athens via regular crossings. If you have just landed at the Athens International Airport, it is better to choose a ferry that departs from Rafina Port, which is located close to the airport. On the other hand, if you are planning to spend some time in the capital before visiting Naxos, we recommend finding a ferry that departs from Piraeus, located about 30 minutes from the city center by car. Some ferries also depart from Lavrio Port.

The companies which operate this route are Blue Star Ferries, Fast Ferries, Minoan Lines, and SeaJets. During the summer season, at least three routes to Naxos depart from Piraeus and one from Rafina.
The travel time is usually around 3.5 and 5.5 hours but can last up to 8.5 hours if you depart from Lavrio. Duration also depends on the type of ferry (conventional or high-speed).
Ferry prices are fixed and mainly depend on the seat type (economy, business, VIP), port of departure (Piraeus, Rafina, or Lavrio), and vessel type (high-speed or conventional). The ticket cost ranges from €22 to €72.3.
Even though ferry tickets do not sell out as quickly as flight tickets, it is a good idea to play it safe and buy them a few months in advance.

Pros of getting to Naxos by ferry:
Ferries are the most popular way to reach Naxos, especially if you are traveling during the high season when air ticket prices tend to rise.

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• How long is the duration of the trip?

The duration of the trip starts from 3h25m and can reach 8h25m, with an average time being 5h30m. That depends on several factors, including the type of vessel (conventional or high-speed), the port of departure (Piraeus, Rafina, or Lavrio), the in-between stops, and the weather.

• How much do the tickets cost?

Ferry ticket prices are fixed and mainly depend on the seat type (economy, business, VIP), the vessel (high-speed or conventional), and the port of departure (Piraeus, Rafina, or Lavrio). Some indicative prices are:

• €42 for the conventional Blue Star Ferry from Piraeus with a trip duration of around 5 hours.
• €72.3 for the high-speed ferry with Seajets from Piraeus with a trip duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• €43 for the conventional Fast Ferry from Rafina with a trip duration of 5 hours and 30 minutes.
• €22 for the conventional Blue Star Ferry from Lavrio with a trip duration of around 8 hours and 25 minutes.

• What types of vessels are operating?

Two types of vessels operate the route from Athens to Naxos: Conventional vessels, run by the Blue Star and Fast Ferries companies, and high-speed vessels, run by Minoan Lines and Seajets.

> Conventional ferries

The conventional ferry is a large vessel featuring several indoor and outdoor spaces and a garage. Numerous establishments lie within the ferry, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. All indoor spaces are air-conditioned. If you are traveling with a dog, an organized kennel is available in most cases, but you can also have your dog with you on deck.
The conventional Blue Star Ferry is the most popular way to reach Naxos. That type of vessel is not easily affected by weather conditions, so it usually departs and arrives on time. In addition, due to its size and number of outdoor spaces, travelers can enjoy exceptional views of the Aegean Sea. Last but not least, since a garage is available, you can take your vehicle (car or moto) with you for an extra charge.
Types of seats: Deck/Economy, Airline seats/Economy, Airline seats/Business, cabins with/without a view.
Price range: €42 - €72.5
Vehicle: €32.5(Moto), €165 (Car)
Timetable: During the summer season, there are at least 3 crossings daily for that type of vessel to/from Piraeus and one to/from Rafina.

> High-speed ferries

High-speed vessels are smaller boats that reach faster speeds than conventional ferries. The outdoor spaces are limited and passengers sit in the indoor area, which is air-conditioned. Some vessels boast a garage, allowing you to transfer your moto or car, but others don't.
The advantage of choosing high-speed ferries is that the trip duration is much shorter. Bear in mind, though, that because of their smaller size, weather conditions (strong winds during summer months) easily affect them, and delays may occur.
Types of seats: Airline seats/Economy, Airline seats/Business, and Airline seats/VIP.
Price range: €69.7 - €72.3
Vehicle: €28.7 (Moto), €70 (Car)(Seajets)
Timetable: During the summer season, there are 3 crossings daily for this type of vessel to/from Piraeus port and one to/from Rafina port.

• Indicative Timetables

Check our booking engine for precise timetables.

Note: Most ferry companies announce their official timetables in February or March.

Discover other popular ferry routes to Naxos.

 

Direct flights connect Athens International Airport and Naxos National Airport with multiple flights per day during the summer.
Sky Express and Olympic Air are the companies that fly from one destination to the other. Note that Aegean Airlines own Olympic Air, so you may encounter flights to Naxos conducted by Aegean Airlines.
The flight duration is approximately 40 minutes.
Ticket prices may vary, depending on availability and demand. Keep in mind that tickets cost less during the off-season months, though. If you decide to get to Naxos by plane, don’t forget to book your flight tickets at least a few months in advance, especially if you are planning to travel during the high season. Last-minute offers may be available, but they tend to sell out in no time.

Pros of getting to Naxos by flight: A flight is the fastest way to get from one place to another. If you book it several months in advance, the ticket can end up as cheap as a ferry's.

Scheduled Flights

 

Save yourself the trouble and check out our special island hopping packages from Athens to Naxos and other stunning Cycladic destinations! By opting for one of the pre-organized trips available, you will not have to worry about booking your tickets or planning your trip on your own.

Discover an illustrated map with the ferry and flight route from Athens to Santorini.