Rafina Ferries

The port of Rafina plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by - ferry companies, Rafina serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Rafina, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Paros - Rafina connecting Rafina with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as - run regular services from Rafina, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Rafina offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Rafina is easily accessible from Athens, located just 30 kilometers from the city center and 10 kilometers from Athens International Airport. Regular KTEL buses run from Athens' Pedion Areos terminal to Rafina, with the journey taking approximately 50-60 minutes depending on traffic. From the airport, direct buses operate throughout the day, reaching Rafina in about 30 minutes. Taxis are readily available from both locations, offering a more flexible option for travelers with luggage. If driving, the port has several parking options nearby, though spaces can fill quickly during peak summer season.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Attica, Rafina serves as Athens' second most important port and a vital gateway to the Cyclades islands. This charming coastal town combines authentic Greek character with the practical advantages of a bustling ferry hub. With its working harbor, fresh seafood tavernas, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, Rafina offers travelers both convenience and a genuine taste of coastal Greek life before embarking on their island adventures.

Rafina enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. The high season runs from June through September, when temperatures hover between 25-35°C and ferry connections reach their maximum frequency. May and October offer particularly pleasant conditions with warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and still-reliable ferry schedules. Winter brings a more authentic glimpse of local life, though with reduced ferry services to some destinations. The annual Fisherman's Festival in July celebrates the town's maritime heritage with fresh seafood and traditional music, making it an especially lively time to visit.

Rafina serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the northern Cyclades islands. Andros, the northernmost Cycladic island, can be reached in just 2 hours and offers a blend of neoclassical architecture, pristine beaches, and hiking trails. Tinos, approximately 2.5 hours away, attracts visitors with its religious significance and traditional marble craftsmanship. Mykonos, reachable in 3-4 hours, beckons with its iconic windmills, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque white-washed villages. During summer, additional connections to smaller islands like Kea and Kythnos make Rafina an ideal base for island-hopping adventures through the azure waters of the Aegean.

While primarily known as a departure point, Rafina rewards visitors who linger with several worthwhile experiences. The town's waterfront promenade offers excellent people-watching and a selection of authentic fish tavernas where the day's catch is displayed on ice – try the local specialty of grilled sardines or fresh sea bream. Rafina Beach, with its clean waters and proximity to the port, provides a convenient spot for a pre-departure swim. The nearby Marathon Lake and its surrounding pine forests make for a pleasant half-day excursion. For shoppers, the small but vibrant Friday morning market brings local producers selling everything from honey and olives to handcrafted items.

Though overshadowed by Piraeus in size, Rafina actually offers faster access to the Cyclades islands, saving travelers up to an hour on many routes. The port has ancient origins, with archaeological evidence suggesting it served as a minor harbor dating back to the 5th century BCE. Local fishermen still practice traditional techniques passed down through generations, and if you arrive early for your ferry, you might spot them mending their nets using methods virtually unchanged for centuries. The name Rafina likely derives from the ancient word 'Arafin,' meaning 'to sew together,' possibly referring to boat-building activities that once took place here.