Ios is one of the most iconic islands in Greece — but unlike Mykonos or Santorini, it doesn’t have an airport.
This means every traveller arrives by ferry, and understanding the best routes can save you time, money, and stress.
This 2026 guide explains exactly how to get to Ios, wherever you’re coming from.
STEP 1 — Fly Into the Right Airport
There are three airports travellers use to reach Ios:
1. Santorini (Thira) – The Most Popular Route
Closest to Ios. Fastest. Easiest.
Recommended for:
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Irish travellers
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UK travellers
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Scandinavians
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Australians
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Americans
Travel time to Ios:
35–50 minutes by ferry
Airlines commonly flying to Santorini in summer:
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Ryanair
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Aer Lingus
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Jet2
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easyJet
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British Airways
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Emirates (via Dubai)
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Qatar Airways (via Doha)
Why choose Santorini?
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Super quick transfer
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Ferries run all day
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Cheapest island hop
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Ideal for 3–5 day trips
Link: How Many Days Do You Need in Ios?
2. Mykonos – Great for Island Hopping
Perfect if you’re doing Mykonos → Ios → Santorini or the reverse.
Travel time to Ios:
1 h 20 min – 2 h 20 min (depending on ferry)
Ferries are frequent in peak season.
3. Athens – Best for Budget Travellers
Fly into Athens International Airport → then travel to Rafina or Piraeus port.
Ferry times to Ios:
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Rafina → Ios: 4h 30m – 6h
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Piraeus → Ios: 4h – 7h
This option is ideal if:
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You found a cheap long-haul flight
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You’re travelling with a big group
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You have time to explore Athens
STEP 2 — Choose Your Ferry
The main ferry companies to Ios in 2026 are:
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Seajets
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Blue Star Ferries
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Golden Star
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Minoan Lines
Tips:
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Book early for June–August
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Morning ferries are calmer
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Always arrive 45–60 mins early
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Expect large crowds at ports in July
Link: Best Time to Visit Ios in 2026
STEP 3 — Arriving in Ios
You’ll arrive at Ios Port, a small marina with buses, taxis, ATMs, and restaurants.
Getting to Chora / Mylopotas:
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Taxi: €7–€12
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Bus: €2
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Walk: 15–20 mins uphill
Your first night should always include:
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Check-in
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Nio Fusion Happy Hour
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LIABP Bar Crawl
Links:
Final Word
Getting to Ios in 2026 is simple once you understand the airport + ferry combo.
Santorini is fastest, Mykonos is flexible, and Athens is cheapest.
Whichever you choose, make your first night unforgettable with the Official Ios Wristband for free bar crawls, FarOut entry, and club access all week.