Getting from Athens to Donoussa

If you are heading to Donoussa from Athens you are going to the most remote of the Small Cyclades and the one that rewards the effort most completely. Donoussa sits northeast of Naxos, further from the main ferry routes than its sister islands and quieter for it. The island has a single main settlement above the port, good beaches on the north and east coasts and an atmosphere of genuine isolation that is increasingly hard to find in the Cyclades. The people who make it to Donoussa tend to stay longer than they planned.

Take the ferry

The Piraeus to Donoussa ferry runs a few times a week year-round, taking around 7 to 9 hours depending on the vessel and the stops. The connection via Naxos is also practical, with the small ferry from Naxos to Donoussa taking around 2 to 3 hours and running several times a week in summer. The Express Skopelitis, the small legendary ferry that threads through the Small Cyclades, serves Donoussa on its regular route and is worth taking for the experience alone. Check the schedule carefully on Ferryhopper as the frequency is limited and your travel dates need to align with the departures.

Getting there by air

Donoussa has no airport. The nearest airport is Naxos, which has daily connections from Athens taking around 45 minutes. From Naxos the ferry to Donoussa takes around 2 to 3 hours. Total travel time via Naxos is around 4 to 5 hours and is the fastest overall approach.

Your best option

Fly to Naxos and take the ferry across to Donoussa. It is the fastest approach and the connection from Naxos is straightforward. Give yourself at least two nights on Donoussa and come prepared as facilities on the island are limited. The isolation is the whole point of being there.