Getting from Mykonos to Leros

Leros is one of those Dodecanese islands that tends to get skipped in favour of its more famous neighbours and that is entirely to its benefit. It has an unusual history, a distinctive Italian colonial architecture left over from the occupation years, a handful of deep natural bays that make the coastline feel dramatic and intimate at the same time, and a local life that carries on largely undisturbed by tourism. People who find Leros tend to feel like they have discovered something and they are not wrong.

Take the ferry

There is no direct ferry between Mykonos and Leros. The connection goes via Piraeus and the total journey by sea is around 10 to 12 hours depending on the service. Some Dodecanese routes stop at Leros on the way down which can work well if you are island hopping through the chain. Check the schedule carefully and book ahead once you find a crossing that fits your plans.

What about flying?

Leros has its own airport which makes flying a viable option on this route. You would be going Mykonos to Athens and then Athens to Leros, with the total journey taking around 3 to 4 hours door to door depending on your connection time. Leros Airport is small and flights are not always daily so check availability early and book as soon as you have your dates confirmed.

Your best option

If the flight works with your schedule, fly. The Athens connection is manageable and Leros is worth arriving at with energy rather than after a long overnight ferry. Once you are there, hire a scooter, explore the bays and give yourself enough time to find the corners of the island that make it worth the journey.