- Must visit
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of Greece’s top museums, showcasing Minoan masterpieces from Knossos and Crete. Essential for understanding the island’s ancient history.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Ios to Heraklion
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 22
Cheapest price on Oct 22
€151
Average ticket price on Oct 22
€151
Fastest journey on Oct 22
1 d 12 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 22
1 d 12 h 40 m
Ferries on Oct 22
1
Distance
156 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Ios to Heraklion is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ios to Heraklion will cost around €151 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €151.
Fast ferries
It's difficult to get from Ios to Heraklion without transferring at least once.
2:20 PM36h40Ios3:00 AMHeraklion€1511One-way1 transfer
- 2:20 PM36h40Ios3:00 AMHeraklion€1511One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Ios to Heraklion
GreeceGreece
Take a ferry from Ios to Heraklion and enjoy the approximately 84 nautical miles (156 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest ferry runs at 07:30, the last at 15:05. Ferries from Ios to Heraklion 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
Distance 84 nautical miles (156 km) |
First ferry 7:30 AM |
Last ferry 3:05 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 49 days |
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
Ios to Heraklion Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 36h40 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu |
Operator Hellenic Seaways | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 10h55 | Sailing Days Fri, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Ios to Heraklion ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Ios to Heraklion ferries for today, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:20 PM Ios | 36h40 | 3:00 AM Heraklion | 1 transfer | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Ferry operators: Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries from Ios to HeraklionYou can travel by ferry between Ios to Heraklion with Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
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
36h 40m
Cheapest Blue Star Ferries Price
€151
Blue Star Ferries frequency
1 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
Hellenic Seaways
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hellenic Seaways Duration
10h 55m
Cheapest Hellenic Seaways Price
€116
Hellenic Seaways frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Heraklion
Things to do in Heraklion
Discover the best of Heraklion — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heraklion trip today.
- Must visit
Historical Museum of Crete
Historical museum covering Byzantine to modern Crete, with strong collections on art, daily life, and a notable El Greco room.
- Recommended
Nikos Kazantzakis Museum
Modern museum dedicated to Nikos Kazantzakis, presenting manuscripts, personal objects, and his global literary legacy in engaging displays.
- Must visit
Old Venetian Harbor
The old Venetian harbor is Heraklion’s classic waterfront walk, linking the fortress, boats, sea views, and the city’s maritime atmosphere.
- Must visit
Lion Square
Central square around the Morosini Fountain, lively day and night. It is ideal for orientation, people-watching, and historic center walks.
- Recommended
25th of August Street
Main pedestrian shopping street through the old center. It combines local life, architecture, and easy access to major landmarks.
- Vegetarian
Dakos
Dakos is a Cretan barley rusk topped with tomato, mizithra or feta, olive oil, and oregano. It is a classic island meze that showcases local olive oil and cheese.
- Gluten-free
Gamopilafo
Gamopilafo is a creamy Cretan rice pilaf cooked in rich meat broth, often with goat or lamb. It is served at weddings and feasts and is deeply tied to local celebrations.
- Gluten-free
Antikristo
Antikristo is lamb slow-roasted around an open fire with only salt. This ancient shepherd style from Crete is prized for its pure flavor and festive character.
Peskesi
Long-running traditional taverna known for Cretan meze, grilled meats, and a warm local atmosphere near the city center.
Erganos
Refined restaurant serving creative Cretan cuisine with local ingredients and a polished contemporary atmosphere.
Paralia Seaside Restaurant
Established seafood restaurant by the harbor, popular for fresh fish, classic Greek dishes, and sea views in a casual setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Greece: hotels rise in summer, but dining and buses stay reasonable versus Santorini or Mykonos.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or gyros.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Round up for cafes and taxis; no tip is required.
Iraklio City Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Heraklion Port -> Lion Square, Heraklion
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy bus tickets before boarding from kiosks or partner shops when possible; onboard purchase availability can vary.
- Card or contactless payment is not reliably available on Heraklion city buses, so carry cash or a pre-bought ticket.
FAQs: Ferry from Ios to Heraklion
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ios to Heraklion 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 Heraklion, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The earliest ferry from Ios to Heraklion leaves at 7:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Ios to Heraklion leaves at 3:05 PM.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Ios to Heraklion with Blue Star Ferries
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Ios to Heraklion is possible with Blue Star Ferries.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Ios to Heraklion is possible with Blue Star Ferries. 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 Ios to Heraklion, you can count on Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries for the best way to get you to Heraklion. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Ios and Heraklion and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
Yes, you can take a ferry between Ios and Heraklion.
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 Heraklion, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation. Avoid accepting unsolicited help from strangers offering taxi services or tours, as overcharging scams can occur. It's advisable to use official taxis and verified transportation tickets to ensure safety and fair pricing. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings will help prevent common petty crimes.
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.
More options for your journey from Ios to Heraklion
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Heraklion and Ios
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