Ikaria, the island that took its name from Icarus, son of Daedalus, is a new sensation for travelers among other Greek islands thanks to its serenity, distinct character, and philosophy of living. It features stunning landscapes of otherworldly beauty and pristine nature, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
It is known as the island where time stops, and you can relax and destress. It has beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters such as Nas, Seychelles, Kampos, and Iero. It is considered among the top destinations for laid-back holidays, both for families and young people, and generally people closer to nature and eager to, go camping or do alternative vacations.
Tip: If you visit during high season, don’t miss the so-called “Ikariotika panegyria”, which are traditional feasts with drinks, food, and a lot of dancing.
Interested in visiting this paradise? Here’s how to get to Ikaria from Athens.
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Getting from Athens to Ikaria
Fly to Ikaria from Athens
Ikaria has a small Airport (JIK) located 12 km from Agios Kyrikos. It receives domestic flights from Athens only.
From ATH International Airport, the main companies operating this route are Aegean Airlines, /Olympic Air. The flight lasts about 55 minutes, and the prices can start from 27 Euros for a single ticket, but that always depends on seasonality, availability, and how early in advance you book.
Find below available flights and prices.
After you reach Ikaria, you can take a taxi from the taxi hub outside or take the bus outside the airport.
Take the ferry to Ikaria
You can also hop on a ferry from Athens to Ikaria. Ferry schedules are running from the port of Piraeus. The distance between them is 124 nautical miles.
From the port of Piraeus to Ikaria, you can usually find daily crossings to Ikaria, both to Agios Kirikos port and Evdilos port. The routes are mainly operated by Blue Star Ferries and have an average duration of 6 hours and 5 minutes. Outside the summer months, ferry crossings vary according to season and weather.
According to season, availability, and seat options, ferry ticket prices can range from 30.50 to 128 Euros.
Click here for the ferry schedule and to book your tickets directly.
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Book your private transfer from ATH Airport to the Port
Eleftherios Venizelos, also known as ATH International Airport, is situated approximately 43 km from the Port of Piraeus, where you can take the ferry to Ikaria.
If you want to get to Ikaria from Athens directly after you land, your safest option to reach the port in time would be to book your private transfer via Welcome Pickups. This will help you save a lot of time and effort. The cost of transportation is about 61 Euros.
Their airport pick-up services include English-speaking drivers, a flat fee but pre-paid, and flight monitoring to arrive on time and avoid delays.
In addition, this option is Covid-FREE, as they provide contactless payments & services, frequent airing and disinfection, and all the required safety measures by the book!
Find more information here and book your private transfer.
Island-hop to Ikaria from Samos
You can also reach Ikaria from Samos by taking the ferry from the 3 ports of Samos to 2 ports in Ikaria. Generally, the trip lasts about 1.5 hours, as the islands are separated by 10 nautical miles. The routes are operated by Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, and Dodekanisos Seaways. There are about 12 weekly schedules during the high season. Prices start as low as 7 Euros for a single ticket.
The ferry connections from Samos to Ikaria go as follows:
- Karlovasi to Agios Kirikos
- Karlovasi to Evdilos
- Vathi to Agios Kirikos
- Vathi to Evdilos
- Pythagoreio to Agios Kirikos
Click here for the ferry schedule and to book your tickets directly.
How to get around the island
Rent a Car or motorcycle
Reached the island and want to explore it?
The most convenient option would be renting a vehicle to have the freedom to explore more secluded beaches and hidden spots. You can also rent a motorcycle if you have a license for ease, economy, and flexibility.
Once you reach Ikaria, you can hire your private vehicle by renting from local contractors found mostly in Agios Kyriakos, Evdilos, and Armenistis.
Alternatively, several platforms can help you compare prices and find the best option for you.
I recommend booking a car through Discover Cars, where you can compare all rental car agencies’ prices and cancel or modify your booking for free. They also guarantee the best price. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.
Hop on the Local Bus
Another option is to take the local bus around the island of Ikaria. There are public bus lines on a daily basis that get you to and from various destinations. This is the cheapest solution, with low bus fares and frequent schedules.
Learn all about the Bus Services in Ikaria here, by calling +30 6972150680 or by sending an email at amfitrititravel@hotmail.com
Book a taxi
If you’re out of options, there’s also the potential to take a taxi. You can find a taxi hub just outside the port once you disembark on the island or the airport if you fly to Ikaria. Find taxi hubs in central spots as well.
Alternatively, call 0030 22750 31587 or 0030 697 3836 836 to book your private transfer.
Take a ferry boat
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the island of Fournoi from Ikaria. There are daily crossings with the ferry boat from Agios Kirikos port.
FAQ About your Trip from Athens to Ikaria
Depending on your needs and preferences, you might want to come to visit Ikaria during the high summer season (July to August) when the festivals take place, or opt for a quiet vacation and come in May to June when the weather’s pleasant and you can do many outdoor activities.
Ikaria is perfect for relaxing and chilling out. There is a lot to see, but time works differently on this island. The suggested stay would be about a week to see most of its beaches, explore around, and have fun while tasting local delicacies.
Ikaria has lovely beaches for swimming, including Seychelles, Nas, and Kampos. It also has Halari Gorge for hiking and sightseeing, such as the Temple of Artemis and the Stone Houses in Maganitis. Don’t miss snorkeling and exploring nature. Most importantly, don’t miss the panygiria.
There are ferry connections between Ikaria and other islands, such as Samos, Chios, Syros, and Mykonos.