How to Get from Athens to Paros

The distance between Athens and the island of Paros in the Cyclades is about 135 miles (217 km). Flying is the quickest and easiest way to get to Paros. You also have the option of taking a ferry.

The Cyclades are known for their beautiful beaches and scenic villages, and Paros is a great choice to escape the crowds of nearby Mykonos and Santorini. With this eight-day itinerary, you can experience both Paros and its neighboring island, Naxos. 

By Plane

Duration: 40 minutes

Several flights per day leave from Athens Airport to Paros. Because Paros is relatively close to Athens, the flight is very short.

Paros’ airport is located about a 15-minute drive from its main town and port. To get from the airport to the town center, you can drive, take a taxi, or take a private transfer. There's also a bus that runs a few times per day. 

By Ferry

Duration: 3-4 hours

Most ferries to Paros leave from Piraeus, a port city located within the Athens urban area. 

The easiest way to get from Athens to Piraeus is by booking a private transfer. The ride takes about 30 minutes from downtown Athens. You also have the option of taking a taxi—to get the correct price, insist that the driver use the meter.

If you prefer renting a car, getting from Athens to Piraeus is a straightforward drive along highways 91 or 56. Avoid traveling during the evening rush hour, when commuters will be leaving Athens.

You can also get from Athens to Piraeus on the Athens Metro. Take the M1 (green line) from any central metro stop to the “Piraeus” stop at the end of the line.

Traveling from Piraeus to Paros takes three to four hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. Ferries can be booked in advance, or at the port. If you have a rental car, you can take it on the ferry to Paros by paying an additional fee.

If the Piraeus to Paros ferries are sold out or the timings don’t work for you, you can also catch a ferry from Rafina, a port town in eastern Attica. Rafina is about a 45-minute drive from Athens.

If you’re planning on heading to Paros directly from Athens Airport, booking a ferry from Rafina instead of Piraeus might be a good idea, as it is closer to the airport and will be a shorter cab ride.

Taking the ferry in Greece is usually very comfortable. You’ll be able to book a reserved seat, shared cabin, or private cabin for an extra fee. A regular ticket will give you access to the standing-room deck, which normally has a cafe and seating area, and from which you can enjoy nice views of the Aegean Sea.