Getting from Crete to Piraeus

If you are heading to Piraeus from Crete you are making your way to the largest port in Greece and the gateway to Athens and the wider ferry network. Piraeus is where the overnight ferry from Crete arrives in the morning, and from there the metro takes around 20 minutes to central Athens or you can connect onto ferries to the Cyclades, Saronic islands and beyond.

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. 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. From Athens Airport a taxi or bus to Piraeus takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

Your best option

Take the overnight ferry from Heraklion or Chania. It is comfortable, saves a night's accommodation and you arrive in Piraeus in the morning ready to connect onwards. If time is short, fly to Athens and take a taxi or bus to Piraeus from the airport.