How to get to Naxos from Athens by ferry?

In the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, don’t miss a call to Naxos. Now discover how to ferry the island from Athens.

Long rival to its neighbor, Paros, Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades. It is also the most populous, with about eighteen thousand inhabitants. Over a thousand metres of altitude, Naxos offers a steep relief at the sight of visitors, alternating mountains and valleys.

If you are passionate about Greek mythology, Naxos will make your happiness! Indeed, the island would be the birthplace of the god of vine and wine, Dionysos. She also sheltered Zeus’ childhood, the king of the gods. Finally, it would be there that Thesée would have abandoned Princess Ariane, after her victory over the Minotaur in Crete. The very name of the island would come from a mythical hero, Naxos. Of all these legends, there are places to discover, like the Cave of Zeus, near Filoti. History enthusiasts will be able to visit the remains of the temple of Demeter in Sangri, and the one dedicated to Apollo in Chora. The monumental door of the latter dominates the village.

Like the rest of the archipelago, Naxos had a tumultuous history. Passing from the hands of the Greeks to those of the Romans, then Byzantines and Venetians, it was also conquered by the Ottomans. Numerous traces still follow the island, in addition to an exciting archaeological museum to discover. This one is in the kastro , the ancient fortress of Chora, and includes collections related to the cycladic and mycenian civilizations.

If you are visiting Naxos, don’t hesitate to discover the typical culinary specialties! Maybe you'll taste at kalogero , based on eggplants, or kephalopodia , a bouillon d’abats. On holiday at Easter? Enjoy it to eat patouda , cooked lamb with rice, wild herbs, grapes and cheese!

Did this mouthwash open your appetite? After Santorini or Mykonos, discover how to take the ferry from Athens to Naxos!

The ferry companies linking Naxos to Athens

Currently, three ferries companies provide the crossing between Athens and Naxos. By week, this represents about fifty trips from the port of Piraeus. Golden Star Ferries is the company that offers the greatest choice, with fourteen connections per week. Next Seajets with seven passages, and Blue Star Ferries with four. The Athens-Naxos link is made in four hours, approximately.

Rates are higher in the high season, between April and October. If you have the opportunity to travel between November and March, you can get more attractive prices. An idea to keep in mind, especially that in the Aegean, winters are deemed relatively dry and sunny!

When you arrive, you will arrive at the port of Chora, the only Naxos to welcome the ferries. Enjoy it to discover its different neighbourhoods, such as Kastro and Bourgos. Do you want to continue your adventure in the Cyclades? From Naxos you can take another ferry to join Santorini , Milos , Mykonos , Paros or Rafina.

Plan a ferry ride to Naxos with Direct Ferries

How do I plan a ferry trip to Naxos? The simplest thing is to use a specialised crossing comparison, such as the site Direct Ferries . Thus, you will quickly find the link that suits you, both in terms of price and date.

On the Direct Ferries homepage, complete the fields dedicated to dates and time of departure and arrival. Then indicate the number of passengers and their characteristics (adult or child). Finally, complete your vehicle information (type, mark), if you plan to take it to Naxos. Otherwise, you can rent a car on the island, passing through one of the different agencies located near the port.

Then you just have to click to discover all the solutions listed by Direct Ferries. Don’t hesitate to book as soon as possible, because the places are quickly taken!

How to book your ferry trip to Naxos from Athens?

Once you have completed all the fields on the homepage, the Direct Ferries website offers you a list of crossings, provided by various shipping companies. These regularly vary ticket prices. Think about doing your research at different times, so you can enjoy a discount! In addition to Naxos, Athens provides routes to other islands of the Cyclades like Santorini , Mykonos or Paros

Did you find the right link? Then you have to choose your way to travel. Several possibilities are available to you. For example, you can choose a cabin, two or four layers. Some are equipped with a private bathroom, for more comfort. Are you traveling daylight? You can then ask for a chair in one of the passenger lounges. Finally, if you want to save on the cost of crossing, you can enjoy a place on the bridge, much cheaper.

Before you finish your reservation, you are invited to purchase a free cancellation insurance, as well as a sms mailing service, to remind you of the terms and conditions of your trip. These precautions are not mandatory. Finally, you will receive a confirmation email at your address. You will only have to start dreaming at the sandy beaches of Naxos!