- 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.
Cheapest price
$185
Average price
$185
Fastest journey
1 d 14 h
Average duration
1 d 14 h
Ferries per day
1
Distance
156 km
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 $185 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $185.
It's difficult to get from Ios to Heraklion without transferring at least once.


Ferries from Ios to Heraklion run on average 1 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $142 if you book in advance.
There are 1 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 07:30, the last at 15:05. The fastest ferry covers the 84 nautical miles (156 km) distance in 10h 55m. There are 1 sailings per week. Ferries from Ios to Heraklion are available to foot passengers.



Distance 84 nautical miles (156 km) |
Average sailing duration 2h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $142 |
Ferries per day 1 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 1 |
Fastest ferry 10h 55m |
First ferry 7:30 AM |
Last ferry 3:05 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 38h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu |
Operator Hellenic Seaways | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 10h55 | Sailing Days Fri, Sat, Sun |
The table below shows live departures for Ios to Heraklion ferries for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 2:20 PM Ios | 38h00 | 4:20 AM Heraklion | 1 transfer | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey

Discover the best of Heraklion — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heraklion trip today.
One of Greece’s top museums, showcasing Minoan masterpieces from Knossos and Crete. Essential for understanding the island’s ancient history.
Historical museum covering Byzantine to modern Crete, with strong collections on art, daily life, and a notable El Greco room.
Modern museum dedicated to Nikos Kazantzakis, presenting manuscripts, personal objects, and his global literary legacy in engaging displays.
The old Venetian harbor is Heraklion’s classic waterfront walk, linking the fortress, boats, sea views, and the city’s maritime atmosphere.
Central square around the Morosini Fountain, lively day and night. It is ideal for orientation, people-watching, and historic center walks.
Main pedestrian shopping street through the old center. It combines local life, architecture, and easy access to major landmarks.
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.
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.
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.
Long-running traditional taverna known for Cretan meze, grilled meats, and a warm local atmosphere near the city center.
Refined restaurant serving creative Cretan cuisine with local ingredients and a polished contemporary atmosphere.
Established seafood restaurant by the harbor, popular for fresh fish, classic Greek dishes, and sea views in a casual setting.
Moderate for Greece: hotels rise in summer, but dining and buses stay reasonable versus Santorini or Mykonos.
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.
Official public transport app
Heraklion Port -> Lion Square, 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.

Most Ios to Heraklion ferries use the Port of Ios to Heraklion Port port pair. Use this guide to compare Ios and Heraklion ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Port of Ios is 4 km from Ios city centre. Public transport options include:
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need