Venice to Patras Ferry

Route Overview

Of all the Italy–Greece ferry routes, Venice to Patras is the one that travellers remember long after the crossing. Departing from one of the world's most iconic cities, the ferry sails the entire length of the Adriatic – past the Istrian Peninsula, along the Croatian and Montenegrin coasts, past the Albanian Riviera and finally into the blue waters of the Ionian Sea before reaching Patras.

At nearly 30 hours, it is the longest crossing on offer – but for those who treat the journey as part of the experience, it is unmatched. Large, well-equipped cruise ferries make the voyage comfortable, and with a good cabin and some time on the sun deck watching the Adriatic slide past, the crossing itself becomes a highlight.

The route is especially practical for travellers coming from northeastern Italy, Austria, southern Germany or Slovenia, for whom the drive to Ancona or Bari would add an extra half-day on the road.

Schedules vary significantly by season. Verify exact times when booking.

Operators & Ships

ANEK Lines and Superfast Ferries operate closely together on the Venice route, often sharing schedules or vessels under a joint service agreement. Their combined fleet gives Venice one of the most reliable departure frequencies to Greece in high season.

Minoan Lines runs large cruise-style ferries that are among the most spacious and well-appointed on the Adriatic. On-board amenities typically include sit-down restaurants and cafeterias, bars and lounges, a duty-free shop, entertainment areas, sun decks with pools on some ships and spacious cabin categories ranging from economy berths to premium en-suite options. On a 30-hour crossing, these facilities genuinely matter.

Prices & Cabins

Venice is the most expensive Italian departure port for Greece, reflecting both the longer crossing and the larger, better-equipped ships. Base prices for a foot passenger start from around €75 in low-to-mid season and can rise well beyond €120 in peak summer. Vehicle fares and cabin costs add to this.

• Seat/recliner: the cheapest option, but 28–30 hours in a seat is tiring. Fine if you sleep heavily and want to save money, but most travellers on this route book at least a basic cabin.
• 4-berth economy cabin: bunks shared between four passengers. On long crossings this is a sensible budget option for groups.
• 2-berth interior cabin: private twin room without a window – the most popular choice for couples on a budget.
• 2-berth outside cabin: window or porthole with sea views. The sweet spot between comfort and cost on a scenic route like this one.
• De-luxe / suite: en-suite bathroom, sitting area, sometimes a balcony. Prices vary widely but can reach €80–150 per person extra in summer.

As a general guide, budget around €150–300 total for two people in a 2-berth inside cabin in shoulder season (May–June or September). Peak-summer fares for the same booking can be 40–70% higher.

Intermediate Stops: Igoumenitsa and Corfu

Nearly all Venice–Patras sailings call at Igoumenitsa after approximately 22–24 hours at sea. If Igoumenitsa or Corfu is your destination, you can disembark there and let the ferry continue without you – your fare will already reflect the shorter journey.

Some sailings also stop at Corfu (between Igoumenitsa and Patras on most itineraries). Corfu is a short detour, and disembarking here gives you direct access to the island's port without needing a separate ferry from Igoumenitsa. Check the specific sailing itinerary when booking if Corfu is your target.

Car & Camper on the Venice Route

The Venice–Patras route is a popular choice for motorhome travellers from Germany, Austria and northern Italy, for whom Venice is the most convenient departure port. Vehicles are transported in the ship's lower decks throughout the crossing; for camping on board (sleeping in your motorhome on the car deck with electricity), this option is available on select sailings with both ANEK/Superfast and Minoan.

A car adds roughly €120–250 to the base fare depending on length and season. Motorhomes are priced by vehicle length; longer vehicles cost more. Book vehicle spaces well in advance in July and August.

See our dedicated camper guide for tips on what to pack, how the camping-on-board system works and which routes offer the best camper facilities.

Practical Travel Tips

• Check-in: vehicle check-in usually opens 3–4 hours before departure. Foot passengers should arrive 1.5–2 hours ahead.
• Getting to the terminal: the Stazione Marittima is on the mainland side of Venice, signposted from the A57. Ample parking is available near the terminal.
• On board: bring entertainment, books or a playlist – you have 30 hours of sea to enjoy. Most large ferries have Wi-Fi (often at extra cost), a restaurant, bars and a shop.
• Arriving in Patras: Patras is about 3 hours from Athens by motorway. Book accommodation in advance for peak season – Patras itself has hotels but is primarily a transit city.
• Stretch stops: if your sailing calls at Igoumenitsa, you can usually get off and walk around the port for 30–60 minutes while the ferry loads/unloads. Check the captain's announcement on board.

FAQ

How long is the Venice to Patras ferry?

Around 28–30 hours, including intermediate stops at Igoumenitsa and sometimes Corfu. It is the longest of the main Italy–Greece crossings.

Which operators sail Venice to Patras?

ANEK Lines and Superfast Ferries (often jointly) and Minoan Lines. All run large, well-equipped cruise-style ferries.

How much does the Venice–Patras ferry cost?

A foot passenger starts from around €75 in low season. With a car, add €120–250. A 2-berth cabin adds €30–80 per person. Peak-summer fares are significantly higher – book early.

Does this ferry stop at Corfu?

Many sailings stop at Igoumenitsa, and some also at Corfu. Check the specific itinerary when booking.

Is this route worth it for the scenery?

Absolutely. The Adriatic crossing from Venice is one of the most scenic ferry routes in Europe. Good weather in May, June and September makes for spectacular sea views, especially from the upper sun deck as you approach the Greek coast.