Getting from Astypalaia to Paros

If you are heading to Paros from Astypalaia you are making your way from a butterfly-shaped island between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese to the hub of the Cyclades, relatively close in geographic terms. It has one of the most beautiful small harbour villages in Greece at Naoussa, long sandy beaches on the west coast and a position at the centre of the island ferry network.

Take the ferry

There is a seasonal direct ferry from Astypalaia to Paros running in summer on the wider Blue Star route. The service runs a limited number of times per week and takes around 4 to 7 hours depending on the vessel and stops. It is one of the most natural connections from Astypalaia into the Cyclades and avoids going through Athens entirely. Note that Paros National Airport has no commercial scheduled flights operating in 2026.

Getting there by air

Paros has a small airstrip but no commercial scheduled flights in 2026. Astypalaia has its own small airport with connections from Athens. The ferry connection is the most practical approach for this island hop given the direct sea route available in summer.

Your best option

Take the seasonal direct ferry from Astypalaia to Paros when the schedule works for your dates. It is the most natural and enjoyable connection and avoids Athens entirely. If the timing does not align, take the ferry from Astypalaia to Piraeus and board the Piraeus to Paros ferry, which runs multiple times daily in summer. Book ahead in July and August as this is one of the most popular routes in the Cyclades. If you are traveling with a car, the conventional ferry takes your vehicle directly to Parikia port.