- Recommended
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno
Museum inside the Fortezza presenting finds from ancient to later periods, offering a compact introduction to local archaeology.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Athens to Rethymno
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- €33
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- €37
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 9 h 15 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 9 h 33 m
- Ferries on Nov 02
- 2
- Distance
- 299 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Athens to Rethymno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Rethymno will cost around €37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €33.
Fast ferries
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 2 ferries from Athens to Rethymno, including 2 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct ferries cover the 299 km distance in an average of 9 h 33 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 9 h 15 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest ferries will take 9 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:00 PM 9h15 Athens 4:15 AM Rethymno €33 1 One-way 0 transfers6:00 PM 9h50 Athens 3:50 AM Rethymno €41 1 One-way 0 transfers
7:00 PM 9h15 Athens 4:15 AM Rethymno €33 1 One-way 0 transfers6:00 PM 9h50 Athens 3:50 AM Rethymno €41 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Athens to Rethymno
GreeceGreece
Ferries from Athens to Rethymno run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 12m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at €23 if you book in advance.
There are 5 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:20, the last at 23:45. The fastest ferry covers the 161 nautical miles (299 km) distance in 7h 50m. There are 10 sailings per week. Ferries from Athens to Rethymno are available to foot passengers.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Official Omio partners on this route
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance161 nautical miles (299 km)
- Average sailing duration9h 12m
- Cheapest ticket price€23
- Ferries per day5
- Direct ferriesAvailable
- Average weekly sailings10
- Fastest ferry7h 50m
- First ferry12:20 AM
- Last ferry11:45 PM
- CabinsAvailable
- Cheapest MonthMar
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DayThu
- Least Busy DaySun
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Athens to Rethymno trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Athens to Rethymno.
Cheap ferry tickets from Athens to Rethymno can start from as little as €23 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Athens to Rethymno is €52 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest ferry from Athens to Rethymno leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Athens to Rethymno leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct ferries a day from Athens to Rethymno with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Athens to Rethymno Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 10h40 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 9h15 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 10h15 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 7h55 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 10h50 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 9h50 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 9h50 | Sailing Days Thu |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 7h55 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 10h15 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 9h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 03:30AM | Duration 11h00 | Sailing Days Thu |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Fri, Sun |
Live departures
Athens to Rethymno ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Rethymno ferries for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 KYDON PALACE | 9:00 PM Port of Piraeus | 9h30 | 6:30 AM Heraklion Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Athens to Rethymno ferries with Omio?
Blue Star Ferries as well as Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets offer ferries services from Athens to Rethymno.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Athens to Rethymno.
Why book with Omio vs Blue Star Ferries?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Blue Star Ferries, but also compare tickets for the likes of Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Rethymno.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Ferryhopper, Directferries or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Rethymno.
Offers and deals from Athens to Rethymno
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Athens to Rethymno and choose the solutions that best suit your needs. Below, you will find a selection of the most popular offers
Up to 30% off
30% off with Seajets
SeaJets helps you explore Greek islands including:
Sporades archipelago: 20% off your 2024 return tickets on superfast ferries from mainland Greece to Alonissos, Skopelos and Skiathos - as well as on many inter-island crossings. Book by 15th of June 2024.
Discover Crete: Foot passengers can get 30% off on their 2024 return tickets between Athens (Piraeus) and Chania. Valid until further notice.
Ferry companies
Ferry companies from Athens to Rethymno
Ferries from Athens to Rethymno with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), and Seajets. Cars can travel on this route with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), and Seajets. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Blue Star Ferries
About
Blue Star Ferries is a Greek ferry company that operates a fleet of ferries that provide transportation services for passengers and vehicles across the Aegean Sea and the Adriatic Sea. The company was founded in 1965 and is based in Piraeus, Greece. Blue Star Ferries operates ferry services between the Greek mainland and the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands, as well as between the Greek mainland and Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Blue Star Ferries Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Blue Star Ferries Price
€33
Blue Star Ferries frequency
3 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure with varying refund rates
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafes, and bars available serving meals and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas and facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in designated areas. Must be in carriers or leashed. Not allowed in restaurants.
Cabin reservation
Economy cabins to luxury suites available. Must be booked in advance
Car on board
Minoan Lines (Greece domestic)
About
Minoan Lines, established in 1972 in Greece, is a prominent ferry operator known for connecting various Greek islands and mainland destinations. Their fleet comprises modern vessels, including the HSC Santorini Palace and the Cruise Europa, offering different classes such as Economy, Business, and VIP. Onboard amenities include restaurants, bars, shops, and comfortable lounges, ensuring a pleasant journey. Passengers can choose from various ticket types, including standard seats, private cabins, and vehicle transport options. Minoan Lines' top routes include Heraklion to Piraeus, Santorini to Heraklion, and Piraeus to Chania, making it a preferred choice for travelers exploring Greece's picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) Price
€33
Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 14 days before departure for full refund, 7-13 days 75% refund, 4-6 days 50% refund, less than 4 days no refund
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafeterias, and bars available
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled. Not allowed in restaurants or indoor accommodation areas.
Cabin reservation
Cabins available in various categories (internal, external, luxury)
Car on board
Seajets
About
Seajets is a Greek ferry company that operates a fleet of high-speed catamaran ferries that provide transportation services for passengers and vehicles across the Aegean Sea. The company was founded in 2000 and is based in Piraeus, Greece. Seajets operates ferry services between the Greek mainland and the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands. They offer frequent daily departures and a wide range of routes, making it a convenient and efficient way to travel between the islands.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Seajets Duration
7h 50m
Cheapest Seajets Price
€23
Seajets frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Extra luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours before departure with fees
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria and bar available with snacks and beverages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled
Cabin reservation
Basic cabins available on longer routes
Car on board
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Athens and Rethymno
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Athens to Rethymno with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic)
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Athens to Rethymno is possible with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Athens to Rethymno is possible with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets. We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot, but please check specific times for each route. If you need to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Athens to Rethymno, you can count on Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets for the best way to get you to Rethymno. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Athens and Rethymno and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
Complete guide to Rethymno
Things to do in Rethymno
Discover the best of Rethymno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rethymno trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete
A small museum of traditional Cretan rural life with household objects, tools, and displays that explain local customs and daily routines.
Ecclesiastical Museum of Rethymno
A church museum displaying icons, liturgical objects, manuscripts, and religious art linked to the history of the local Orthodox community.
- Must visit
Old Town of Rethymno
The atmospheric old town is filled with narrow lanes, Venetian and Ottoman details, small shops, and many of the city’s key historic sights.
- Must visit
Old Venetian Harbour
A lively seafront lined with boats, historic buildings, and sunset views. It is a classic place for an easy walk and photos.
- Recommended
Rethymno Beach Promenade
The broad sandy city beach stretches east from town, offering an easy promenade for walking with open sea views close to the center.
Cretan Meat Pie
A rich Cretan meat pie with handmade phyllo and mild mizithra cheese, often served at celebrations and linked closely to Rethymno's home cooking.
- Gluten-free
Chochlioi Boubouristi
Snails cooked with rosemary and vinegar, a classic Cretan meze reflecting the island's rural traditions and love of foraged ingredients.
Skioufichta
Dried handmade pasta tossed with browned sheep's butter and local grated cheese. A festive Cretan dish often served at weddings and village feasts.
Zisis
Long-running local favorite serving classic Cretan and Greek plates in a lively, rustic setting near the old town.
Avli
Traditional taverna in Rethymno Old Town known for Cretan dishes, meze, and a warm historic atmosphere.
Taverna Galera
Well-known traditional restaurant focused on hearty home-style Cretan food, grilled meats, and local starters.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Greece: summer stays rise, but tavernas, coffee and local buses stay reasonable versus Santorini or Mykonos.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for gyros, bakery food, or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a taverna or casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining with drinks.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included, but rounding up is common. Leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
KTEL Chania Rethymno
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.10
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Port of Rethymno -> Rethymno Central Bus Station, Rethymno
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Urban bus fares in Rethymno use zones; the standard urban fare starts at €1.10 and some routes cost €1.30, €1.80, €2.20 or €2.60.
- Rethymno’s official municipality transport page points visitors to KTEL Chania-Rethymno for local and intercity buses. Contactless payment on buses could not be verified from official sources.
Plan your visit to Rethymno
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Rethymno.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Rethymno, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and markets. Overcharging by taxis or at some eateries can occur, so agreeing on prices beforehand is advisable. Additionally, be aware of unofficial vendors selling counterfeit goods. Overall, Rethymno is considered safe, but staying vigilant helps avoid common scams.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Ferry from Athens to Rethymno
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Rethymno by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Rethymno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a ferry between Athens and Rethymno.
popular ferry ports
Popular ports from Athens to Rethymno
Most Athens to Rethymno ferries use the Port of Piraeus to port pair. Use this guide to compare Athens and Rethymno ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Athens
Arrival ports in Rethymno
Which Athens port do ferries to Rethymno leave from?
Ferries from Athens to Rethymno leave from Port of Piraeus. The port is from Athens city centre at 10, Akti Miaouli str, Pireas 185 38, Greece.
Port of Piraeus10, Akti Miaouli str, Pireas 185 38, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Piraeus from Athens city centre
Metro Line 1, Piraeus Station
Port of Piraeus port facilities and services
Port of Piraeus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant (0.3km), To Steki tou Ilia (0.5km), Rouan Thai (0.7km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in passenger terminals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Port of Piraeus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Piraeus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Port of Piraeus.
Most popular ferries to and from Rethymno and Athens
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