- Recommended
Symi Archaeological Museum
Archaeological and folkloric displays in a traditional mansion, presenting local finds and everyday life. A compact introduction to Symi's history.
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Athens to Symi is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Symi will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
On Sat, Oct 31, we found 2 ferries from Athens to Symi, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 31 the direct ferries cover the 396 km distance in an average of 16 h 30 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 16 h 30 m .
On Sat, Oct 31 the slowest ferries will take 16 h 30 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.

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Ferries from Athens to Symi run on average 1 times per day, taking around 15h 30m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $78 if you book in advance.
There are 1 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 12:00, the last at 19:40. The fastest ferry covers the 213 nautical miles (396 km) distance in 14h 25m. Ferries from Athens to Symi are available to foot passengers.

Plan this route
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Athens to Symi.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 15h10 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 16h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 02:40AM | Duration 16h40 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 16h40 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:01PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 14h24 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 13h35 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 16h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 14h30 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Symi ferries for tomorrow, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 12:00 PM Athens | 16h30 | 4:30 AM Symi | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 1:00 PM Athens | 16h30 | 5:30 AM Symi | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Ferries from Athens to Symi with Blue Star Ferries. Cars can travel on this route with Blue Star Ferries. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Symi — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Symi trip today.
Archaeological and folkloric displays in a traditional mansion, presenting local finds and everyday life. A compact introduction to Symi's history.
Ecclesiastical museum at Panormitis Monastery with icons, liturgical objects, and manuscripts. It adds depth to a visit to the monastery complex.
Maritime collection at Panormitis displaying boat models, nautical tools, and seafaring memorabilia. It highlights Symi's long connection with the sea.
Monumental stone stairway linking Gialos and Chorio. Its mansions, chapels, and viewpoints make it Symi's signature walk.
The island's colorful main harbor lined with neoclassical houses and quayside promenades. Ideal for orientation, photos, and evening walks.
Upper settlement above the port with quieter lanes, churches, and old houses. It offers a more local atmosphere than the waterfront below.
Tiny Symi shrimp are lightly fried whole and eaten shell-on. They are the island’s signature meze, prized for sweet flavor and close ties to local fishing.
Chickpeas baked slowly with onion, olive oil, and herbs until creamy. A classic Greek island fasting dish associated with home cooking and village ovens.
Fresh octopus, often sun-dried then grilled or braised in wine. Common in Symi tavernas and valued for reflecting the island’s seafaring food culture.
Traditional taverna in Pedi known for home-style Greek cooking, grilled meats, and seafood. Calm waterfront setting suited to long lunches.
Well-known harbourside seafood taverna in Gialos, popular for Symi shrimp, grilled fish, and classic island meze in a relaxed setting.
Casual bakery-cafe known for breakfasts, pastries, coffee, and light meals. Convenient central stop in Symi Town with a long-standing local presence.
More expensive than many Greek islands. Hotels and waterfront dining raise costs, while local tavernas and buses help keep daily spending moderate.
Service may be included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes if service is good.
Official public transport app
Symi Port, Symi -> Symi Town Clock Tower, Symi
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 Symi.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Symi 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 Symi, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Athens to Symi ferries use the Port of Piraeus to Symi port pair. Use this guide to compare Athens and Symi ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant (0.3km), To Steki tou Ilia (0.5km), Rouan Thai (0.7km)
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in passenger terminals.
Ticket office support is available at Port of Piraeus.
Available at Port of Piraeus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Port of Piraeus.
Symi is 3 km from Symi city centre. Check local transport options before travel.