Ferry between Italy and Greece – our trip by campervan

FAQ – frequently asked questions about ferries between Italy and Greece

Which ferries run between Italy and Greece?

There are several ferry lines between Italy and Greece. On the Italian side, ferries depart from Venice, Ancona, Bari and Brindisi, among others. In Greece, Igoumenitsa and Patras are two important ferry ports, and some lines also go to Corfu. The routes operated vary between different shipping companies and seasons.

Can you take a camper on the ferry between Italy and Greece?

Yes, many ferries between Italy and Greece take campervans, caravans and other vehicles. When booking, you will state the vehicle type and usually the length and height of the campervan. Check the dimensions carefully, especially if you have a bike rack or other equipment that increases the length of the vehicle.

How long does the ferry between Italy and Greece take?

The journey time varies depending on which route you choose. Brindisi is located far south in Italy and the crossing from there to Igoumenitsa is one of the shorter options. From Ancona or Venice, for example, the journey will be considerably longer. Always check the current timetable when booking.

Which ferry is best between Italy and Greece?

It depends mainly on your travel route. If you are already in southern Italy, Brindisi or Bari may be practical alternatives. If you are coming from northern Italy or central Europe, it may be easier to take a longer ferry crossing from, for example, Ancona or Venice and avoid driving all the way through Italy.

Do you need to book the ferry between Italy and Greece in advance?

During high season it is wise to book in advance, especially if you are travelling with a campervan or caravan as the number of vehicle spaces is limited. When we travelled from Brindisi to Igoumenitsa we were able to buy tickets on the same day, but that was our experience at that time and not something we would count on today.

Do you need a cabin on the night ferry?

No, on many ferries you can choose between a cabin and different types of seats or deck seats. We travelled without a cabin between Brindisi and Igoumenitsa. However, on a longer overnight crossing, a cabin may be worth the extra cost if you want to get a good night's sleep.

Can you sleep in the camper during the ferry trip?

Normally, passengers are not allowed to stay on the car deck during the crossing, which means that you cannot expect to sleep in your motorhome. On some ferry routes and departures, there may be special options for motorhome travelers. Always check what applies to the particular departure you are booking.

What about LPG in the motorhome on the ferry?

Regulations may differ between shipping companies. There may be requirements that gas cylinders or gas tanks must be turned off during the crossing and special regulations for refrigerators that run on gas, for example. Always check the shipping company's current regulations before departure.

Can you bring a dog on the ferry between Italy and Greece?

Yes, several cruise lines allow pets, but the rules vary. There may be special pet cabins, kennels or areas where dogs are allowed. Check the rules when you book, especially if you want to bring your dog with you in a cabin.

Is Brindisi–Igoumenitsa a good ferry route with a campervan?

Yes, the route can be particularly convenient if you are already in southern Italy and want to continue towards Greece or Albania. For us, the ferry from Brindisi to Igoumenitsa was a convenient way to change our itinerary and continue our motorhome trip in the Balkans.

What should you take from the motorhome on board?

Bring what you need for the entire crossing, as you normally won't have access to the motorhome on the car deck during the trip. Passports, booking documents, medications, chargers and hygiene items are good to have in your hand luggage. If you are traveling without a cabin, a small pillow and something warm to wear over you can also be nice.