Getting from Crete to Athens

If you are heading to Athens from Crete you are making one of the most travelled routes in Greece. Athens rewards those who give it time rather than treating it as a transit point. The Acropolis and the Archaeological Museum are obvious priorities but the neighbourhoods of Monastiraki, Psiri and Exarchia have food, bars and street life that stand up against any European capital. The National Garden, the covered market at Varvakios, the view from Lycabettus Hill in the evening and the fish tavernas along the coast at Piraeus are all worth your time.

Take the ferry

The Crete to Piraeus overnight ferry is one of the most comfortable and practical routes in Greece. Ferries depart from Heraklion and Chania year-round, with up to 5 daily services from Heraklion in summer and once or twice daily from Chania. The journey takes around 8 to 9 hours, departing in the evening and arriving in Piraeus in the early morning. Cabins are available on the larger vessels. From Piraeus the metro takes around 20 minutes to central Athens. Book ahead in July and August.

Getting there by air

Both Crete and Athens have airports. Multiple daily flights connect Heraklion and Chania to Athens with the journey taking around 50 minutes. Flying is the fastest option and the most practical if you are short on time.

Your best option

Take the overnight ferry from Heraklion or Chania if you have the flexibility. It is comfortable, saves a night's accommodation and you arrive in Piraeus in the morning with the whole day ahead. If time is short, fly. Either way book ahead in summer as both ferry and flight fill up fast on this route.