How to Get From Crete to Athens: Tips & Routes

Planning a trip to the Greek islands? Deciding how to travel from Crete to Athens or the other way around depends on your needs and budget. You can take a direct flight, which is easier, or enjoy a scenic ferry ride. This guide will give you all the details you need to make a good choice. We will discuss ferry routes, flight options, and how to get from the airport to the city centre. This will help you have a smooth and fun journey.

Traveling from Crete to Athens

Traveling between Crete and Athens is very easy. There are good flights and ferry routes. Each option has its upsides and downsides. Flights are quicker, but ferries give you the chance to see the Aegean Sea’s beauty. You can also save money on a place to stay by taking a night ferry. In the end, your choice will depend on your travel style, budget, and how much time you have. Keep reading to see a closer look at each way to travel. This way, you can choose what is best for you.

Geography and Distance

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands. It is located in the southern Aegean Sea, roughly 320 km (200 miles) southeast of Athens. The island is more than 8,300 square kilometers (3,205 square miles) in size. It has stunning mountains, valleys, and a beautiful coastline with clean beaches. The distance from Crete to Athens is far, but you can easily travel by plane or ferry. This makes it simple to enjoy a city trip in Athens and then take a relaxing trip to Crete. However you choose to travel, the trip shows you the unique beauty of Greece. You can admire the beautiful Aegean islands and the lively city life in Athens.

Comparing Air Travel and Ferries

Direct flights from Athens to Crete are the quickest way to travel. The flight lasts around one hour. This is a good choice for people who want to save time or want ease. Many airlines, including low-cost ones, provide this route. This gives travelers different options and fair prices. If you prefer a slower pace and want an adventure by the sea, ferries offer a unique experience. Minoan Lines and other companies have ferries for overnight trips. These ferries can save you money on hotels and let you wake up to lovely views of the Aegean Sea. Fast ferries can reduce travel time. However, they often cost more. In the end, your best option depends on your preferences and budget.

Ferries from Athens to Crete

Ferries from Athens to Crete provide a beautiful and easy way to travel between these popular places. There are several ferry companies, like Blue Star Ferries and Minoan Lines, that you can choose from. The ferries leave from Piraeus Port in Athens and arrive at Heraklion, Chania, and Sitia in Crete. This helps people get to different areas of the island. The trip on the ferry can take between 5 to 9 hours. This timing depends on the kind of boat and the route taken. A ferry trip allows travelers to see amazing views of the Aegean Sea and enjoy a calm way to get to Crete from Athens.

Flights from Athens to Crete

For those who want to fly, Chania Airport (CHQ) and Heraklion Airport (HER) have many direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH). A range of airlines, like Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, and Volotea, offer these flights. This makes it easy to find a flight that fits your budget and schedule. Flight times stay the same all year, taking about one hour. But during busy times, it is good to book your flights early. This will help you get the best prices and avoid problems.

Private Yacht from Athens to Crete

If you want a fancy trip, renting a private yacht is a wonderful choice. You can travel from Athens to Crete this way. Many companies offer private charters. You can pick from several kinds of boats, such as speedy motor yachts or big catamarans. The best part is that you can choose how long you want the trip to last as you might want to stop at hidden coves and beautiful islands during the journey. When you rent a private yacht, you can make your own plans. This allows you to explore the Aegean Sea at your own speed. It will be a special and memorable trip.

Ports and Airports in Crete and Athens

Knowing where the main ports and airports are is important when you want to travel from Crete to Athens. Ferries usually depart from the Port of Piraeus in Athens. They go to the main ports in Crete, which are Heraklion, Chania, and sometimes Rethymno and Kissamos. You can fly, too. Athens International Airport links to the main airports in Crete: Heraklion Airport and Chania Airport. Knowing about these spots will help you connect well and save time on your trip.

Main Ferry Ports in Crete

Crete is an important island. It has several main ports that link it to mainland Greece and other islands. The Port of Heraklion is on the north coast. It is the busiest port and manages both passenger and cargo ferries. Many travelers come here from Piraeus and other islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos. Chania is on the west coast and has the second-largest port. It welcomes ferries from Athens and several other places. The smaller ports, Rethymno and Kissamos, also get ferries, but not as often. If you look at a map of ferry routes, you can find these ports and how they are connected. This will help you understand where you can travel in Crete and other places.

Even though Rethymno port is smaller, it is still a hotspot in Crete and worth visiting this Dolphin City.

Main Ferry Ports in Athens

Piraeus is only a few kilometers southwest of the center of Athens. It is the main spot for ferries to Crete. Piraeus is busy and one of the largest passenger ports in Greece and Europe. Many ferry companies work here. They offer various routes and schedules to ports in Crete and other Greek islands. Since Piraeus Ferry Port is very busy, it can feel hard to get around. It is best to arrive early, especially in the busy season. This will help you find your departure gate easily. This way, you can avoid any stress at the last moment.

Main Airports in Crete

Crete has two international airports. Chania International Airport (CHQ) is located in the west. Heraklion International Airport (HER) is on the north coast. Both airports have flights from Athens. They also welcome visitors from around the world, especially during the tourist season. Heraklion Airport has many flights and is quite busy. Chania Airport is a great choice for getting to the western part of the island. There is a small airport in Sitia, located in eastern Crete. It mostly serves local flights and has a few flights to other countries.

If you are vacationing in Chania, you must visit the beautiful beaches of Chania! On the other hand if you are vacationing in Heraklion, you are in the epicenter of Crete’s history!

Main Airports in Athens

Athens International Airport (ATH) is the largest airport in Greece. It welcomes most travelers from abroad. The airport is around 33 km, or 20 miles, east of central Athens. You can reach the city center easily by public transport. This includes the metro, buses, and taxis. The metro is a quick and affordable way to get around. It takes around 40 minutes to get to the city center. There are also several bus routes that connect the airport to various spots in Athens. Taxis are right outside the arrivals area. They provide a more comfortable way to travel. However, they can be more expensive.

What You Should Know Before Traveling From Crete to Athens

Before you begin your trip from Crete to Athens, make sure you have all the important papers and details. This will help you have a smooth and simple journey. You will save time and avoid problems. It’s smart to buy your tickets early and pack what you need. Knowing some important facts will help make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

For further information on Greek Ferries, our blog article has all you need to know!

Essential Documents and Reservations

To have a smooth trip from Crete to Athens, important documents and bookings are important. If you travel by ferry, have your ticket confirmation ready. For flights, keep your boarding pass close at hand. Ensure your passport is up to date and that you have any needed visas. It’s a good idea to book your tickets online ahead of time, especially during busy seasons, to hold your spot. Keep a digital or printed copy of your reservations for easy use. Check if any COVID-19 related documents are needed for travel and keep them sorted. Having all your important documents ready before your trip will help make your journey easy and fun.

How Far in Advance Should You Book Your Tickets?

Booking your ferry or flight tickets early helps you feel more at ease. This matters a lot during busy travel seasons. High season runs from June to September. During this time, prices are usually higher since more people are traveling.

For ferries, it is smart to book several weeks ahead. This is especially true if you need a cabin. It helps you find better prices. It also makes sure you get a spot on the dates you want to travel. Flight prices can change a lot. Booking early can help you get a cheaper ticket. There are last-minute deals, but they can be risky when travel is busy. If you book early, you can plan your trip well. This way, you can avoid being let down.

Wondering how to Plan a Trip to Greece? Read our article here that has all the useful information and tips

How Long is the Flight from Crete to Athens?

One great thing about flying from Crete to Athens is the quick flight time. Direct flights take about one hour and go around 320 km. This makes it simple to travel between these two spots. You get more time to explore and relax. Wind and air traffic can affect flight times a little. However, flying is the quickest way to travel, even with slight delays. When you fly internationally through Athens, consider the length of your layover. The short flight between Crete and Athens makes it a great stop for your next journey.

How Long is the Ferry Ride from Crete to Athens?

Ferry travel is a nice way to get from Crete to Athens. It may not be as fast as flying, but it allows you to enjoy lovely views. The ferry ride can take different times. This depends on the route, type of ferry, and sea conditions. Overnight ferries are often the most popular choice. They take about 6.5 to 11 hours. The time can change if the ferry stops at other islands along the way. If you want to go faster, there are high-speed catamarans on some routes. These ferries can cut down crossing times.

Taking a Car on the Ferry From Crete to Athens

Transporting your car by ferry is a great option for those who want to be flexible and explore by themselves. Many ferries run between Crete and the mainland and can carry vehicles. This makes traveling in both locations easy. It is important to tell the ferry company about your car when you book your tickets. Tickets for passengers with cars usually cost more. The price to transport vehicles can change based on the size of your car. When you arrive at the port, follow the lanes that are marked for boarding. Also, pay attention to the instructions from the port staff.

Average Costs for Ferry and Flight Tickets from Crete to Athens

Ferry tickets from Crete to Athens usually cost between 50 and 120 euros for a one-way trip. The price depends on the type of boat and seating you choose. Different ferry companies may have different prices, and they can increase in the busy season. Direct flights from Crete to Athens usually leave from Heraklion or Chania airports. These can cost between 50 and 150 euros for an economy seat. It’s best to book early for better prices, especially during busy travel seasons. Ferries can be a more affordable choice. They also let you enjoy a nice trip on the Aegean Sea. Flights are faster but tend to cost a bit more.

Want to know how to budget your trip to Greece? Our blog article has all the answers for you!

Packing Tips for a Smooth Trip

Packing well for your trip from Crete to Athens can make your travel better. Consider the weather and any rules about luggage, this will help you pack more easily. Comfortable clothes and shoes are important, especially if you want to explore. Bring light layers in case the temperature changes. If you want to swim, remember to pack your swimsuit for the beautiful Greek beaches. When you fly, keep an eye on bag limits. Look up the rules for your airline to prevent extra charges. It’s a good idea to carry a small bag or backpack for your important items. This includes travel papers, medications, and electronics, which should stay close to you.

Traveling from Crete to Athens has many choices, and each is nice in its way. You can take a lovely ferry ride or a fast flight. To make your trip easier, plan well. Don’t forget your important documents and try to book your tickets early. Pack smartly to avoid stress while you travel. Knowing how to get around, the distances, and the important details is key for a great time. With the right planning, your trip from Crete to Athens can be as fun as the places you see. Enjoy your adventure and take in the beauty of Greece as you move from the peace of the islands to the hustle of the city. Have a safe trip!