Ferry from Paros to Piraeus.

Paros to Piraeus is the ride home for many Cyclades trips, and the start of an Athens stay for others. It is one of the most reliable links in the Aegean: big Blue Star ferries run it every day of the year, and Seajets adds high-speed boats that save more than an hour. Whether you are catching a flight, spending a few days in Athens or changing to a boat for another island group, this is usually the simplest way back to the mainland.

You leave from Parikia, the capital and port of Paros, where the quay sits at the edge of the old town, a short walk from the church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani. You arrive in Piraeus, Athens' main port, with the metro into central Athens close by.

If you are flying out of Athens the same day, think about timing carefully. Fast boats take about 2 hr 40 min to 3 hr 45 min, and you still need an hour or more from Piraeus to the airport. Some travellers prefer the Rafina route in summer, as Rafina is much closer to the airport.

Before booking, check which Athens port your ticket is for. Ferryhopper groups Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio together as Athens, and they are far apart on the ground. For July and August, book early, especially cabins and car spaces.

The meltemi, a strong north wind that peaks in July and August, blows straight across this route and can make the sea between Paros and Attica rough. High-speed boats are the most affected and are the first to be delayed or kept in port, while the big Blue Star ferries usually keep sailing. The port authority decides when conditions are unsafe. Blue Star sails every day, so if a fast boat is cancelled the operator can usually rebook you onto a conventional ship; otherwise ask for a refund. Before an important flight, consider sailing a day early.