Christmas is coming soon, have you chosen a winter destination yet? How about something different this year? Spend Christmas on an island! Greek islands in winter are enchanting with their traditions, warm hospitality, and the calm atmosphere that makes them so special. Will you choose something close to Athens or venture a little further? Small and picturesque or big and full of life? With Ferryscanner, choosing your Christmas destination is easier than ever! Find the island that suits you and book your ferry tickets for a holiday you’ll remember for a long time. This year, let the sea breeze add a special touch to your Christmas!
What do we celebrate during Christmas?
During Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, one of the most important events of the Christian faith. Christmas is the holiday that brings us all closer together, filling our days with light and warmth. Beyond its religious significance, the Christmas season has become the ultimate time for family moments, in decorated homes, with delicious sweets and gift exchange. The decorations on the Christmas tree, carol melodies, and the lights you find everywhere you look create a magical atmosphere that makes young and old alike happy.
When is Christmas 2024?
As always, Christmas is on December 25, and this year, in 2024, it falls on a Wednesday. Mark the date and start thinking about how you’ll spend it – at home with loved ones or maybe at a unique destination. 🎄✨
Crete
If you’re thinking of spending Christmas in Crete this year, get ready for a holiday full of customs, traditions and… goblins! Yes, you read that right! In Crete, the karakatzolia – as the locals call them – are mischievous little creatures that make an appearance every Christmas to stir things up. And, if you believe the stories, any children born on Christmas Day are temporarily transformed into leprechauns until the holy water “fixes” them! Isn’t that a fun custom to get into the holiday spirit? If that’s not enough, Chania has something else to offer you. In the cave of St. John, every year they recreate the manger with animals and a scene that looks like it came straight out of the night of Christ’s birth. The Divine Liturgy there creates an atmosphere full of devotion and magic. Christmas in Crete means customs connected to the heart of the island, warmth, and a sense of tradition that will enchant you!
How to get to Crete
Crete is one of the top destinations in Greece, with daily services from Piraeus to the ports of Heraklion and Chania. The ferry companies Minoan Lines and Blue Star Ferries operate these routes with ships that offer comfort and modern facilities.
For Heraklion, the ferries usually depart in the evening, around 21:00, and arrive at the port early in the morning, after a journey of approximately 8-9 hours. Ticket prices start from €37 for economy class passengers, while if you want to take your car with you, prices start from €102.50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
Book Ferry Tickets from Piraeus to Heraklion
If you choose the Chania, the duration of the trip is about 9 hours, with a similar departure time from Piraeus, around 21:00, and arrival the next morning. Prices for passengers start from €49, while for cars, the cost starts from €79.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
Book Ferry Tickets from Piraeus to Chania
Hydra
You probably don’t get many days off, and the idea of spending Christmas in the busy city this year doesn’t sound appealing. A winter getaway to Hydra is just what you need to change your mind and get in the festive mood. Can an island as well-known and much-photographed as Hydra be transformed into the ultimate Christmas destination? Of course, it can! Christmas here has something unique about it that is hard to find elsewhere. With decorated cobbled streets, an illuminated harbor, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re starring in a festive movie, Hydra is ideal for experiencing something different. It’s the perfect island if you’re thinking of spending your first Christmas on an island. The best part? All this in a car-free destination, where relaxation and a sense of the holidays reign supreme.
How to get to Hydra
Your trip to Hydra starts from Piraeus, with the ferry companies Magic Sea Ferries, Alpha Lines, and Hellenic Seaways. The ferries depart daily, while passenger ticket prices start from €38. Since Hydra is an island where cars are not allowed, you don’t have to worry about vehicle transportation or additional costs. Departures cover from morning to late afternoon, allowing you to organize your trip as it suits you. The journey time is approximately 1.5 hours, making Hydra an ideal destination for short breaks.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose.
Book Ferries from Piraeus to Hydra
Syros
Christmas in Syros? Get ready for a holiday full of tradition! In Ermoupolis, the decorated Apollo Theatre steals the show – literally and figuratively! With lights illuminating the façade and unique performances, it’s an absolute must for the holidays. And if you think Syros is only a summer destination, it’s probably time to reconsider!
Wander through the alleys of Ano Syros, where the smells of palm trees (their own melomakarona) and eggokalamara fill the air, while the locals smile at you and prepare for Christmas Eve. Children sing carols while holding their decorated boats, giving the festivities a unique, Cycladic rhythm. This year, don’t overthink it – Syros knows how to make Christmas unforgettable!
How to get to Syros
Your journey starts from Piraeus, with daily departures by the ferry company Blue Star Ferries. The journey takes about 4 hours depending on the route you choose to travel. Ticket prices start from €36.50 for passengers, and if you want to take your car with you, car tickets start from €102.50. Ferries depart from early morning until the afternoon, giving you the opportunity to choose the time that suits you best.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
Book Ferries from Piraeus to Syros