How long is the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

The Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry trip can take around 27 hours 20 minutes. The fastest sailings are approximately 27 hours 5 minutes with Hellenic Seaways. Sailing times can vary between ferry operators and can be impacted by weather conditions. Our Deal Finder can tell you if your preferred ferry is a high-speed-ferry or conventional ferry.

How much is the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices typically range between £64* and £264*. The average price is typically £81*. The cheapest Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices start from £64*. The average price for a foot passenger is £81*. The average price for a car is £302*. Pricing will vary depending on number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over last 30 days and exclusive of service fees, last updated November 26.

Which ferry companies operate between Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Hellenic Seaways provide the ferries from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus).

Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Operator Schedules

There is 1 weekly sailing from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) provided by Hellenic Seaways.

Do ferry schedules change on holidays?

Ferry schedules often differ on bank holidays and during peak travel periods. Some sailings may run less frequently or at different times of the day. Tip: Always check the operator’s timetable during holiday periods and factor in queueing time at busy ports.

How far is it from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

The distance between Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) is approximately 177.4 miles (285.5km) or 154 nautical miles.

Can I amend my ferry tickets?

You can easily request amendments through “Manage My Booking”, though changes depend on the ferry operator’s policy and availability—and may incur an admin fee plus any fare difference. Alternatively, you can opt for a flexi fare (when available) to enjoy fee-free date, time, vehicle or seat changes (subject to availability). We understand you may have questions such as what happens if your sailing is delayed or cancelled, whether you're entitled to compensation, or what the fees are for cancelling or changing your booking. For guidance on these and other topics, you can find helpful information in our Help Centre or read our How to Amend, Change and Cancel your Booking guide. Alternatively, our customer support team is always happy to help.

Should I book my ferry tickets in advance for better prices and availability

Ferry prices tend to rise as space onboard the ferry becomes more limited, and cabins or specific seating options can sell out early—especially during school or public holidays. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best fares and seat choices. For more budget-friendly booking tips, also read our guide.

What documents do I need to travel as a foot passenger to Athens?

The type of documents you'll need when travelling as a foot passenger to Athens depends on your route and nationality. On most international routes, you will need a passport to travel. For domestic routes, you can usually travel with any valid form of ID. If the country you are travelling to is part of the Common Travel Area (e.g. Ireland, Isle of Man), British or Irish citizens may only require minimal ID. Since Brexit, British citizens travelling to EU countries must meet the Schengen entry rules, with stays now limited to 90 days in any 180-day period. EU border checks may now also take longer, especially during peak times. More up-to-date information on post-Brexit European travel rules can be found here: Travel after Brexit, as well as in our Europe Travel Guide . Or for more general advice on travelling internationally, check out our handy International Travel Guide .

Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) ferry tickets, compare times and prices

Departure Time	Arrival Time	Duration	FERRY COMPANY
21:30	00:50	27 hours 20 minutes	Hellenic Seaways	Get price Operates Saturday

Departure Time	Arrival Time	Duration	FERRY COMPANY
21:30	00:50	27 hours 20 minutes	Hellenic Seaways	Get price Operates Saturday

Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Pricing, Offers & Availability

Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Price

Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices tend to range between £64* and £264*. The average price for ferries from Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) is typically £81*. The cheapest Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices start from £64*. The average foot passenger price is £81*. And the average price for a car is £302*.

Pricing will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over the last 30 days and is exclusive of service fees, last updated November 26.

Cheap Ferry Tickets for the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)

We offer a fast way to compare ferry tickets and costs across the world to make your choice smooth sailing. Check out our Special Offers page for discounts on select routes and operators. Remember to book early for the best prices and options!

Are there any discounts available for senior citizens, students or residents?

Yes, Direct Ferries offers a wide range of discounts all year round. When searching for ferries, senior discounts will be automatically applied if they are available. Just select your age range from the passenger options.

Students and graduates can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To take advantage of the discount, you need to register with and check out our partner Student Beans and confirm your student or graduate status. You will then receive a discount code which can be entered during the payment process. For more, see our Student Ferry Travel guide.

Resident discounts are available on a variety of Spanish and Italian ferry routes. Just click on the "Residents" option when this is displayed. The discount is automatically applied to the price. Bear in mind that proof of registration or an identity card with the correct address must be shown at check-in.

For more information on budget-friendly ferry travel, also check out our discounts guide.

Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Times

The first Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry typically departs from Thessaloniki at around 18:00. The last ferry usually departs at 21:30.

Can I do a day trip from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Due to the crossing time, ferries between Thessaloniki and Athens (Piraeus) are more suited to weekend trips or longer stays to really make the most of the journey - if you’re looking for inspiration or things to do when you’re there, check out our blog. Where a faster crossing is available, see our high-speed ferry types guide.

Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) Travel with Vehicles & Pets

Can I bring my car on the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Yes, Hellenic Seaways ferries allow cars on board ferries between Thessaloniki and Athens (Piraeus). Use our Deal Finder to get live pricing for car ferries between Thessaloniki and Athens (Piraeus).

Can I bring my caravan on the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Whether you can bring your campervan on the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) depends on factors like the ship & operator of your preferred crossing. To find out whether you can take your caravan on the ferry, simply enter your details, and we will compare operators on the specified route for you.

For more practical tips and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan & caravan, visit our blog or Caravan Holiday Guide.

Can I travel by bicycle on the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Currently, you cannot take your bicycle on board any ferries from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus).

Can I travel as a foot passenger from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Yes, foot passengers can travel with Hellenic Seaways ferries between Thessaloniki and Athens (Piraeus).

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Pets are currently not allowed on board the ferries from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus). Use our Deal Finder to find alternative routes that offer travel options for pets.

Travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs

Please note that even if pets are not allowed on board, different regulations may apply to passengers travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs. We recommend talking to our customer service to check the specific rules on your preferred sailing. For general information on travelling with assistance dogs and guide dogs, visit our Special Assistance Help page and our dedicated Accessible Ferry Travel guide.

Can I take an overnight ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Whether an overnight ferry is available on the route between Thessaloniki and Athens (Piraeus) depends on various factors. To find out if there is an overnight ferry available, simply enter your details; our search results will then provide you with the information on whether your preferred ferry sails overnight. Here you can also find the current ferry timetables and crossing times, as well as alternatives for day passages.

Please note that the duration of the night ferries can at times be slightly longer than that of the day ferries.

Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) Journey Information

International Travel Rules

Travel requirements can vary depending on the route, so it's important to check what documents you'll need before sailing. In most cases, a valid passport is required when travelling from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus), along with any necessary visas or national ID cards. Requirements may differ based on your nationality and the destination country’s regulations. To avoid delays at check-in, you can find helpful information for your journey in our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and in our blog post on tips and tricks for international travel. As well as our travel advice guides on International Travel and European Travel.

Travel Smart: How to book a ferry

Booking your Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) ferry tickets

To book your ferry tickets, simply enter your departure and arrival ports and the date you’d like to travel to see all available options and prices. You’ll also be able to view alternative routes and times, so you can find the best deal to suit you.

Look out for early booking discounts or special ticket options such as upgrades or flexi-tickets that allow you to change or cancel your booking. To make your sailing as smooth as possible, make sure you enter all the required information correctly, such as the number of passengers and vehicle specifications.

Tip: Our 101 on Booking and Boarding Your Ferry and Frequently Asked Questions pages are a great guide for first-time ferry travellers & any questions that pop up pre-booking.

Collecting your ferry tickets from Thessaloniki port

Once you’ve finalised your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It depends on the ferry operator you book with as to how your boarding pass is issued and collected.

Whilst some ferry operators issue the boarding pass as soon as your booking is confirmed, others may ask you to check in at the port. There’s also the option for online check-in, which can be easily done via the Direct Ferries app, if available.

The ticket desks are usually located near the ferry terminals. To avoid any delays at the port, we’d recommend allowing some extra time to collect your tickets and to check in.

During check-in, you must show your email confirmation, as well as an official photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. You might also be asked to provide documentation for your pet (vaccines, pet insurance, etc.) or proof of residence, if you have booked your ticket with a resident discount.

Why are there no ferries available on the date I want to travel?

There could be various reasons why there are no departures from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) for the date you’ve requested. For example, a temporary timetable change, limited availability or seasonal changes in the timetable. We recommend checking for alternative dates and routes.

When is the best time to book a ferry to Athens (Piraeus)?

The best time to book ferries from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) is usually as early as possible. By booking in advance, you’ll not only get your tickets at the best available prices, but you’ll also get a better choice of departure times and cabin/seating options.

We’d recommend making your booking at least a few weeks in advance to benefit from the best offers. Bear in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and availability.

Why use Direct Ferries?

Sail everywhere

More routes than anyone else.

Sail cheaper

Compare fares, times & routes in one place.

Sail flexibly

Change plans easily with flexi tickets.

Sail smart

Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.

Sail informed

Live ship tracking & real-time updates.

Sail confidently

Top-rated customer support when you need it.

Thessaloniki - Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Route Prices
Foot Passenger	£81
Average Price with Car	£302

Thessaloniki - Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Route Summary
Origin	Greece
Destination	Athens
No. of Operators	1
Operators	Hellenic Seaways
Average Price	£81
Average Daily Sailings	1
Average Weekly Sailings	1
Average Sailing Duration	27 h 20 m
Fastest Sailing Duration	27 h 5 m
First Ferry	18:00
Last Ferry	21:30
Distance	154 Nautical Miles

* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 12 November 2026.

Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Most Popular Questions

How long is the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

The Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry trip can take around 27 hours 20 minutes. The fastest sailings are approximately 27 hours 5 minutes with Hellenic Seaways. Sailing times can vary between ferry operators and can be impacted by weather conditions. Our Deal Finder can tell you if your preferred ferry is a high-speed-ferry or conventional ferry.
How much is the ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?

Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices typically range between £64* and £264*. The average price is typically £81*. The cheapest Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices start from £64*. The average price for a foot passenger is £81*. The average price for a car is £302*. Pricing will vary depending on number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over last 30 days and exclusive of service fees, last updated November 26.
Which ferry companies operate between Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?
Thessaloniki Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Operator Schedules
Do ferry schedules change on holidays?
How far is it from Thessaloniki to Athens (Piraeus)?
Can I amend my ferry tickets?

You can easily request amendments through “Manage My Booking”, though changes depend on the ferry operator’s policy and availability—and may incur an admin fee plus any fare difference. Alternatively, you can opt for a flexi fare (when available) to enjoy fee-free date, time, vehicle or seat changes (subject to availability). We understand you may have questions such as what happens if your sailing is delayed or cancelled, whether you're entitled to compensation, or what the fees are for cancelling or changing your booking. For guidance on these and other topics, you can find helpful information in our Help Centre or read our How to Amend, Change and Cancel your Booking guide. Alternatively, our customer support team is always happy to help.
Should I book my ferry tickets in advance for better prices and availability

Ferry prices tend to rise as space onboard the ferry becomes more limited, and cabins or specific seating options can sell out early—especially during school or public holidays. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best fares and seat choices. For more budget-friendly booking tips, also read our guide.
What documents do I need to travel as a foot passenger to Athens?

The type of documents you'll need when travelling as a foot passenger to Athens depends on your route and nationality. On most international routes, you will need a passport to travel. For domestic routes, you can usually travel with any valid form of ID. If the country you are travelling to is part of the Common Travel Area (e.g. Ireland, Isle of Man), British or Irish citizens may only require minimal ID. Since Brexit, British citizens travelling to EU countries must meet the Schengen entry rules, with stays now limited to 90 days in any 180-day period. EU border checks may now also take longer, especially during peak times. More up-to-date information on post-Brexit European travel rules can be found here: Travel after Brexit, as well as in our Europe Travel Guide. Or for more general advice on travelling internationally, check out our handy International Travel Guide.

Thessaloniki Guide

Embark on a journey through history and culture at Thessaloniki Ferry Port, the gateway to Greece's spirited second city. Thessaloniki is renowned for its vibrant festivals, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival which brightens up the autumn season, and the annual Dimitria festival, celebrating the city's patron saint. Tourists flock to the White Tower, the emblematic monument by the seafront, and the Archaeological Museum, which houses treasures of Macedonia's ancient past. The city's Byzantine walls offer a panoramic vista of Thessaloniki, while the historic district of Ano Poli is a labyrinth of charming cobblestone streets. From the port, you can easily venture to other Greek destinations or neighbouring countries by bus, train, or road. The city centre is a short bus ride away, with frequent services connecting the port to the heart of Thessaloniki. Whether it's delving into history or enjoying the modern buzz, Thessaloniki Ferry Port is your starting point for an unforgettable Aegean adventure.

Piraeus Guide

Embark on a Grecian odyssey starting from Piraeus ferry port, a bustling gateway that seamlessly blends maritime tradition with modern vibrancy. Piraeus serves as the perfect launchpad for the Thessaloniki to Athens ferry, allowing travelers to explore the ancient splendors of Athens, with iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Archaeological Museum beckoning history enthusiasts. Stroll through the charming Plaka district or visit the bustling central market for a taste of local life. Annually, the city celebrates with the Piraeus Carnival, a vibrant event filled with parades and cultural performances. From Piraeus, the Greek islands are just a ferry ride away, and the port's extensive network facilitates easy travel to destinations like Crete, the Cyclades, and the Dodecanese. For travel to Athens city center, the efficient metro system is a traveler's best bet, with the green line connecting directly to Piraeus station. Buses are also available, providing convenient access to various parts of the city. Whether you're setting sail to idyllic islands or delving into historic streets, Piraeus ferry port is your starting point for an unforgettable Grecian adventure.