How to get there

Flying to Athens International Airport First

Getting to Greece: The Main Entry Point

Most international visitors arrive at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, also known as ATH. This is the primary gateway for travellers coming from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and most European countries. The airport is located about 33 kilometres southeast of central Athens.

Major Airlines Flying to Athens

Airlines serving Athens International Airport include British Airways, Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and many others. You have lots of options when booking your flight to Athens.

Flight Duration from Key Markets

Here are typical flight durations from popular departure cities to Athens:

• From London Heathrow (LHR): 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes
• From Manchester: 4 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes
• From Los Angeles: 15 hours to 16 hours with one or two stops
• From Toronto: 11 hours to 12 hours with one stop
• From Paris: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes
• From Frankfurt: 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes
• From Amsterdam: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours

Best Booking Times for Athens Flights

Booking your flights at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance usually gives you the best prices. During summer months (June through September), flights fill up quickly, so booking early is especially important. Winter and early spring often have cheaper fares but with fewer flight options.

Athens Airport Facilities

The airport has excellent facilities including restaurants, shops, cafes, duty free stores, car rental desks, and ATMs. There is wifi throughout the terminal, and you will find information desks to help with questions.

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Direct International Flights to Mykonos

When Direct Flights Are Available

Several European cities have seasonal direct flights to Mykonos from May through October. Direct flights to Mykonos save you time but are more expensive than flying to Athens first.

Direct Flight Routes Available

Seasonal direct flights from these European cities serve Mykonos:

• London (LHR, STN, LGW, LCY, LTN): Available in summer
• Paris (CDG, ORY): Available May through October
• Milan (MXP, LIN): Available in summer months
• Rome (FCO, CIA): Available seasonally
• Frankfurt (FRA): Available in summer
• Amsterdam (AMS): Available seasonally
• Naples (NAP): Available in summer
• Prague (PRG): Available seasonally

Flight times to Mykonos from these cities range from 2 to 4 hours.

Booking Direct Flights to Mykonos

Direct flights are popular and book quickly in summer. You should book these flights several weeks in advance during peak season (June through August). Airlines operating direct flights include Transavia France, Aegean Airlines, and various other carriers.

Direct Flights vs Flying to Athens First

A direct flight to Mykonos seems faster but consider total journey time. A flight to Athens and then a domestic flight to Mykonos may actually take similar or more time when you account for connections, airport transfers, and waiting between flights. Also, flights to Athens are usually much cheaper. For most travellers, especially those with budget concerns, flying to Athens first then taking a ferry or short flight to Mykonos works better.

Flying from Athens to Mykonos

About the Flight

The domestic flight from Athens to Mykonos takes about 40 to 50 minutes of actual flying time. Total door to door time is usually 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes when you include airport transfers, check in, and security.

Flight Cost Range

Flight prices vary by season:

• Off-season (November-March): 50 to 100 euros per person
• Shoulder season (April-May, September-October): 80 to 150 euros per person
• Peak season (June-August): 120 to 250 euros per person

Mykonos Airport Details

Airport Code: JMK (Mykonos Island National Airport)

Distance to Town: The airport is only 2 to 3.5 kilometres northeast of Mykonos Town. This very short distance makes getting to town quick and easy.

Airport Facilities: The small airport has basic facilities including a cafe, small shop, and car rental desks.

Airlines Operating Athens to Mykonos

• Aegean Airlines: Operates the most flights on this route with the best frequency
• SKY express: Offers several daily flights
• Various seasonal airlines: Other carriers add flights during summer months

Aegean Airlines has the highest on-time arrival rate at about 91 percent, making them a reliable choice.

Flight Frequency

There are typically 50 to 60 flights per week from Athens to Mykonos during summer months. In winter, flights are less frequent with about 20 to 30 per week. You will easily find multiple flight times throughout the day.

Best Booking Platforms

You can book Athens to Mykonos flights through:

• Direct airline websites: Aegean Airlines website, SKY express website
• Online travel agencies: Skyscanner, Google Flights, Booking.com, Kayak
• Travel agents: Many travel agencies also book these domestic flights

Booking directly with airlines sometimes offers better prices than third party websites.

Schedule Variations by Season

Summer flights operate multiple times daily starting from early morning until evening. Winter schedules are more limited with typically one or two flights daily. Check current schedules as they change seasonally.

Connection Time Needed from International Arrivals

If you are arriving on an international flight and connecting to a Mykonos flight, allow at least 2 hours connection time. This gives you time to clear immigration, collect any baggage you need, check in for your domestic flight, and clear security. Many travellers prefer 3 hours connection time to avoid stress.

Ferry Options from Piraeus Port, Athens

About Piraeus Port

Piraeus is the main port serving Athens and is located about 10 kilometres south of central Athens. The port is easily accessible from Athens International Airport by public bus, metro, or taxi.

Getting to Piraeus Port from Athens Airport

By Bus: Express bus X96 runs from the airport to Piraeus Port, taking about 50 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run 24 hours. The cost is around 6 euros.

By Taxi: Taxis take about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and cost between 30 to 45 euros. Night surcharges may apply after midnight.

By Metro: Take the metro from the airport to the Monastiraki station, then walk or take a short bus ride to Piraeus. This takes about 50 to 60 minutes and costs around 10 euros.

Standard Conventional Ferry Details

Conventional ferries are the slower but cheaper option. These are full-sized car ferries with plenty of space.

Duration: 4 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours 50 minutes depending on stops

Cost: Standard ferry tickets start at 25 to 35 euros for foot passengers. Vehicle transport costs extra.

Comfort Features: Conventional ferries have restaurants or cafes serving food and drinks. Most have comfortable seating areas, outdoor decks where you can get fresh air, and some have cabins available if you want to sleep during the journey.

Operating Companies: Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways operate conventional ferries on this route.

Frequency: There are usually 3 to 4 departures daily during summer months.

High-Speed Ferry Details

High-speed ferries are faster and more comfortable but cost more money.

Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes depending on the exact service

Cost Premium: High-speed ferries cost 40 to 80 euros for foot passengers, roughly double the conventional ferry price.

Comfort Level: High-speed ferries have comfortable air conditioned cabins, restaurants, bars, and quieter seating areas. They are faster and smoother than conventional ferries.

Availability: High-speed ferries run year round but with more frequent sailings during summer months (May through October).

Operating Companies: Seajets and Blue Star Ferries operate high-speed services. Seajets is the primary high-speed operator.

Ferry Companies Operating Piraeus to Mykonos

Blue Star Ferries: Operates both conventional and high-speed ferries. Known for reliability and comfort.

Seajets: Specialises in high-speed catamaran ferries. Offers the fastest crossing times. Their Worldchampion Jet and Champions League Jet 1 are the fastest vessels on this route.

Hellenic Seaways: Operates conventional ferries with good onboard facilities.

Inter-Island Ferry Connections

Mykonos to Tinos Ferry

• Duration: 15 to 35 minutes depending on ferry type
• Cost: Starts at around 12 to 15 euros
• Frequency: Many daily sailings available all year
• Ferry Companies: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Cyclades Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries

Mykonos to Paros Ferry

• Duration: 35 to 1 hour depending on ferry type
• Cost: Starts at around 20 to 25 euros
• Frequency: Multiple sailings daily
• Ferry Companies: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Cyclades Fast Ferries, Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries

Mykonos to Naxos Ferry

• Duration: 35 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cost: 30 to 35 euros
• Frequency: Up to 7 daily sailings in summer, fewer in winter
• Ferry Companies: Seajets, Fast Ferries, Hellenic Seaways
• Note: This route operates seasonally, usually March to November

Mykonos to Ios Ferry

• Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes
• Cost: Around 35 to 50 euros
• Frequency: Multiple daily sailings available
• Ferry Companies: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Golden Star Ferries

Mykonos to Santorini Ferry

• Duration: Varies, check current schedules
• Cost: 35 to 50 euros
• Frequency: Several sailings available daily
• Ferry Companies: Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Blue Star Ferries

Mykonos to Rafina Port (Alternative Athens Port)

• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cost: Similar to Piraeus prices
• Frequency: Daily sailings available
• Ferry Companies: Cyclades Fast Ferries, Seajets, Golden Star Ferries
• Note: Rafina Port is closer to the airport (30 minutes) than Piraeus, making this an alternative for some travellers

Boat Trips to Delos Island

• Duration: 20 to 40 minutes
• Cost: 20 euros round trip plus 12 euros island entrance fee
• Frequency: Usually 4 departures daily from April to October, fewer in winter
• Departure Point: The Old Port in Mykonos Town
• Note: Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Greek ruins. It is an excellent day trip destination.

Getting from Mykonos Airport to Your Hotel or Town

By Taxi from Airport

Availability: Taxis are available 24 hours a day at the airport taxi rank, located outside the terminal building.

Cost to Town: 15 euros from the airport to Mykonos Town. Other destinations cost more depending on distance.

Travel Time: About 3 to 10 minutes depending on traffic and exact destination.

How to Arrange: Walk outside the terminal to the clearly marked taxi rank. There is usually a queue, especially during busy times. Tell the driver your destination. Taxis must use meters and display legal fares.

Night Surcharge Information: Night surcharges apply between midnight and 5am. Always confirm the approximate fare before getting in the taxi.

Advantages: Direct route to your destination, no waiting for schedules, available any time.

Disadvantages: Can be expensive, especially for groups of people. During peak summer times, queues can be long.

By Bus from Airport

Cost: Just 2 euros, making this the cheapest option. Buses usually run hourly.

Schedule: Buses operate throughout the day and evening. Frequency varies by season.

Main Destination: Buses go to Mykonos Fabrika Square in the town centre.

Travel Time: About 10 minutes to town.

Operator: KTEL Mykonos operates the airport bus service. Their website is mykonosbus.com.

How to Catch: Exit the terminal and look for the bus stop signs. The bus stop is near the exit area.

Advantages: Very cheap, regular service, reliable schedule.

Disadvantages: Must follow bus schedule, luggage space can be limited during busy times, takes longer than taxi.

Hotel Pickup Service

Availability: Many hotels offer complimentary or paid pickup from the airport. This is especially common at larger hotels.

How to Arrange: Contact your hotel when booking to ask about airport pickup. Some include it free, others charge a small fee.

Convenience: Door to door service, no hassle with taxis or buses, hotel staff know the best route.

Cost: Often free for guests, or charged per vehicle (usually 25 to 40 euros).

Pre-booking: Always pre-book this service before arrival if your hotel offers it.

Airport Transfer Services

Shared Minivan Options: Companies offer shared shuttle minivans that drop multiple passengers at different locations. These are cheaper than private taxis.

Cost: 15 to 25 euros per person for shared minivans.

Private Transfer Options: Private car services pick up you and your group only.

Cost: 30 to 50 euros for private transfers.

Pre-booking Required: Book airport transfer services online in advance for best prices.

Reliability: Professional transfer companies monitor flights and wait even if you are late.

Companies: You can find airport transfer services on booking websites or Google by searching for Mykonos airport transfer.

Rental Car from Airport

When to Use: Car rentals are useful if you plan to explore the island and don’t want to rely on buses or taxis.

Rental Companies at Airport: Several car rental companies have desks at Mykonos Airport including CCC Car Rental and other major companies.

License Requirements: Valid driving licence from any EU country or an International Driving Permit. UK licences are accepted.

Cost: Car rental costs vary from 30 to 60 euros per day depending on vehicle type and season.

Driving on the Island: Roads are generally good but can be narrow in town areas. Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 kilometres per hour in towns and 90 kilometres per hour on main roads.

Parking: Parking in Mykonos Town is challenging and limited. Park outside town and walk or use buses in town.

Scooter or ATV Rental

Availability: Scooter and ATV rental shops are located at the airport and throughout town.

License Requirements: Valid scooter license issued at least one year before the rental date. UK and EU driving licenses are accepted.

Cost: Scooters cost 25 to 40 euros per day. ATVs cost slightly more.

Best For: Exploring the island if you are comfortable riding scooters. Popular with younger travellers and experienced riders.

Driving Tips: Roads can have loose gravel. Helmets are required by law and provided. Drive carefully on narrow roads.

Walking from Airport

Distance: About 2.5 kilometres to Mykonos Town.

Feasibility: Walking is technically possible but not recommended, especially with luggage.

Issues: The route follows a main road without sidewalks for much of the way. It is not pleasant with suitcases.

Getting from Mykonos Port to Your Hotel or Town

By Bus Service

Route Information: Buses connect the New Port to various towns and areas on the island. The bus station is located at the port.

Main Route: Services to Mykonos Town, Psarou Beach, Platis Gialos, Ornos, Paradise Beach, and Panormos.

Cost: Fares are cheap, usually 1.50 to 3 euros depending on distance.

Schedule: Buses run frequently in summer months but less often in winter. Check the schedule at the bus station.

Travel Time to Town: About 5 to 10 minutes.

Air Conditioning: Modern buses have air conditioning.

Hub System: The bus system works as a hub and spoke system with Mykonos Town as the main hub. Go to town first, then transfer to buses to other areas if needed.

Advantages: Cheapest option, regular schedules, air conditioned comfort.

Disadvantages: Must follow bus schedules, luggage can be difficult on crowded buses.

By Taxi from Port

Availability: Taxis are available at the port with a designated taxi rank.

Cost to Town: 10 to 15 euros to Mykonos Town.

Travel Time: About 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic.

Day vs Night Availability: Taxis are available day and night but can be difficult to find during busy afternoons.

Night Arrivals: Pre-booking a taxi for late night arrivals is strongly recommended. Taxis may be very busy or hard to find if you arrive late.

How to Book: Ask at the port information desk or call taxi services in advance.

Hotel Shuttle Service

How to Arrange: Contact your hotel before arrival to arrange shuttle pickup from the port.

Pre-booking Importance: It is very important to pre-book your hotel shuttle. Without advance notice, your hotel may not have a vehicle available.

Cost: Often included free with your stay or charged 15 to 25 euros per transfer.

Convenience: Door to door service, no hassle, hotel staff are reliable.

Sea Bus Service

Availability: A sea bus connects the New Port to the Old Port in Mykonos Town, a short boat trip.

Cost: About 2 to 3 euros per trip.

Journey Time: 10 to 15 minutes.

Advantage: Direct connection to town without road travel. Can be an enjoyable short boat ride.

Rental Car or Scooter from Port

Pickup Locations: Car rental companies have desks at the port and can provide vehicles.

Convenience: Pick up your vehicle immediately and have mobility for the rest of your stay.

Cost: Similar to airport rentals, 30 to 60 euros per day for cars.

Note: Collect your vehicle immediately upon arrival while you have time and energy.

Cost Comparison Table: Transportation Methods

Method	Duration	One-Way Cost	Season	Total Cost Example
Flight Athens to Mykonos	40 minutes	50-250 euros	Off/Peak	100-250 euros
High-Speed Ferry Piraeus	2.5-3.5 hours	40-80 euros	Any	80-120 euros
Conventional Ferry Piraeus	4-6 hours	25-35 euros	Any	50-80 euros
Airport Bus and Inter-Island Ferry	1.5-2 hours	10 euros	Any	20-30 euros

For families or groups, ferries are more economical. For time-conscious travellers, flights are worth the extra cost.

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Travel Documents and Requirements

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from Greece. UK passports must have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival date.

Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

UK citizens do not need a visa for short visits to Greece up to 90 days. You need only a valid passport. No visa application is necessary.

EU Citizens

Citizens of European Union countries need only a valid EU passport. No visa is required.

Non-EU and Non-UK Citizens

Citizens of other countries should check the specific visa requirements for Greece through the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before booking travel.

Travel Insurance Recommendations

The UK Government and the NHS strongly recommend travel insurance for all travellers leaving the UK. Travel insurance is not a legal requirement but is highly recommended.

Minimum Medical Coverage: If you need a Schengen visa, medical coverage must be at least 30,000 euros. Even without a visa requirement, adequate medical insurance is essential.

What Travel Insurance Covers: Emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, medical repatriation, cancellation of flights and accommodation, and emergency dental treatment.

GHIC Card: The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) provides coverage for medically necessary healthcare in Greece but has limitations. It is not a substitute for proper travel insurance.