The Mykonos to Paros ferry is one of the shortest and most useful hops in the Cyclades — under an hour on the fast boats — which makes pairing the two islands a no-brainer. Here's everything you need: schedules, operators, prices, and what to do the moment you land in Parikia.
The route at a glance
- Distance: about 45 km south from Mykonos to Paros
- Duration: 40–55 minutes on high-speed boats; up to 1 h 45 on conventional ferries
- Frequency: typically 3–6 sailings a day in summer, at least one daily in winter
- Arrival port: Parikia, the main port of Paros (a few seasonal boats also serve Naoussa)
- Typical price: €25–60 depending on operator and season
Operators on the route include SeaJets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries and Blue Star — exact line-ups change each season, so compare on any ferry booking site. In July–August, book at least a few days ahead; the afternoon boats fill first.
Practical tips for the crossing
- The meltemi matters here. This stretch of the Aegean is open to the summer north wind. Big conventional ferries barely notice it; small hydrofoils feel it. If you're prone to seasickness, choose the largest vessel on the schedule, not the fastest.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early at Mykonos New Port (Tourlos) — it gets chaotic at midday in season.
- Luggage: you'll stow bags in racks on entry; keep a small bag with valuables at your seat.
Mykonos vs Paros: what changes when you land
Most travellers do this route in the Mykonos → Paros direction, and the contrast is the point: prices drop noticeably, beach clubs give way to open beaches, and scooters give way to family hire cars. Paros gives you the same Cycladic postcard — especially Naoussa's old port, often called a mini-Mykonos without the velvet ropes — with more space to breathe. First time on the island? Start with our complete Paros guide and 25 things to do.
Arriving at Parikia port
Parikia's ferry quay is right on the edge of town — you can walk to a waterfront taverna in five minutes. But Paros's best corners (Kolymbithres, the mountain villages, the southern beaches) are spread across the island, and the bus network only covers the basics. Reserve a car for port pickup and you'll be swimming at Kolymbithres twenty minutes after the gangway drops: see cars, SUVs and quads here.
Continuing your island hop
Paros is the ferry hub of the Cyclades — from Parikia you have onward connections to Naxos (30 min), Milos, Ios and Santorini. Plan the whole chain with our island hopping from Paros guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Mykonos to Paros?
The fastest boats do it in about 40–55 minutes. Slower conventional ferries take up to 1 hour 45 minutes and are usually cheaper and steadier in wind.
How much does the Mykonos to Paros ferry cost?
Usually €25–40 on conventional boats and €40–60 on high-speed services, per person one-way. Vehicles and premium seating cost extra.
Can you do a day trip from Mykonos to Paros?
Yes — with morning and evening sailings most of the season it's feasible, but Paros deserves more. If you can only spare a day, base it around Naoussa and Kolymbithres.
Do ferries run from Mykonos to Paros in winter?
At least one connection daily (sometimes via Syros or Naxos). Schedules thin out from November to March, so check ahead.
Cover image: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.