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Piraeus Port Gates (E1–E12): Where Your Ferry Leaves
Quick answer
Piraeus metro station (Line 1, green) sits next to gates E5–E7. Cyclades ferries mostly leave from E6–E8, Crete from E2–E3, the Dodecanese and North Aegean from E1–E2, and Saronic islands from E8–E9. Far gates (E1–E3) are a 15–25 minute walk, so use the free port shuttle and arrive at least 45 minutes early.
Gate cheat sheet
| Gate | Usually serves | From metro |
|---|---|---|
| E1 | Dodecanese, North Aegean (Rhodes, Kos, Chios, Lesvos) | Far — take shuttle |
| E2 | Crete (Chania), some Dodecanese | Far — take shuttle |
| E3 | Crete (Heraklion) | Far — take shuttle |
| E4–E5 | Mixed / occasional sailings | 5–10 min walk |
| E6 | Western Cyclades (Milos, Sifnos, Serifos) | Short walk |
| E7 | Cyclades (Paros, Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos) | Short walk |
| E8 | Saronic islands, some Cyclades | 5–10 min walk |
| E9 | Saronic islands (Aegina, Hydra, Poros) | 10 min walk |
| E10–E12 | Cruise ships | Shuttle or taxi |
Getting there
- Airport → Piraeus: bus X96 runs 24/7 (around 60–90 min). Metro Line 3 to Monastiraki, then Line 1, takes about an hour.
- Central Athens → Piraeus: Metro Line 1 from Monastiraki or Omonia, about 25 minutes.
- Taxi from the airport usually takes 45–60 min; agree on a set fare or check the meter is running.
- A free port shuttle bus runs along the quay between the gates.
Avoid these mistakes
- Gates can change on the day. Check your e-ticket or the ferry company's website the morning you sail.
- Boarding usually closes 15–30 minutes before departure. Cars must arrive earlier.
- Early-morning ferries (07:00) fill up fast. The first metro may arrive too late, so plan a taxi or stay nearby.
FAQ
How early should I arrive at Piraeus?
Aim for 45–60 minutes before departure, or 90 minutes if you're bringing a car or sailing from gates E1–E3.
Is there a shuttle between gates?
Yes, a free shuttle bus runs inside the port between the metro area and the far gates.
Updated 2026-10. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.