Everything you need to know about Rafina port in Athens
If you are planning to catch a ferry from Athens to the Greek islands, Rafina Port is considered to be a convenient and less busy departure point than Piraeus Port. Rafina Port is located on the eastern coast of Attica, about 30 km (18.6 miles) from Athens city center and closer to Athens International Airport, 25 km (15.5 miles) away. Rafina is the second busiest port in Attica and serves many different Greek islands, such as Mykonos, Tinos, Santorini, and many more.
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How to get to Rafina Port
There are several ways to reach Rafina Port, depending on where you’re coming from.
From Athens city center to Rafina Port
The most comfortable and hassle-free way to get to Rafina Port from the center of Athens is by taxi. The ride takes about an hour or less, always depending on traffic, and costs approximately €40-50. You can grab a taxi from the central taxi ranks or call a radio taxi to avoid any unexpected incidents. If you want a reliable service with no stress, you can pre-book a transfer online to secure your ride.
The other choice is to take the public bus (KTEL Attikis) from the Pedion Areos area (Mavromateon Street). The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes costs approximately €3.
Athens Airport to Rafina Port
Arriving at Athens Airport, you will find taxis waiting outside the arrivals area. The cost for a taxi from the airport to Rafina Port is €35-45, and takes about 25 minutes. If you don’t want to mess around with taxis, you can enjoy a private transfer with an English-speaking driver who will be waiting for you at the airport before your flight arrives. You can easily book your transfer online and take a direct, stress-free ride to Rafina Port.
There is also the bus, but there is no standard timetable, so it’s a secondary option if you have limited time. The cost is about €4, and the trip lasts 45-50 minutes.
Ferry routes from Rafina Port
Rafina Port serves the Cyclades Islands, Crete, and Evia. Ferries operate all year round, and there are many options from different companies, especially in the summer.
Below you will find some of the most popular trips:
- Rafina Port to Andros: This route runs all year, and the trip takes 1-2 hours.
- Rafina Port to Tinos: This is one of the most popular trips, taking 2-3 hours.
- Rafina Port to Mykonos: You can travel to Mykonos by ferry from Piraeus or Rafina. However, the trip from Rafina is faster, taking only 2.5-4 hours.
- Rafina Port to Naxos or Paros: These routes are seasonal, and the trip takes 4.5-5 hours.
- Rafina Port to Santorini: You can use Rafina Port to visit Santorini during the summer only, as ferries don’t travel to Santorini during the winter. You will need approximately 6 hours for this trip.
- Rafina Port to Marmari (Evia): This is the shortest trip, as it only takes 1 hour.
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Rafina Port gates and facilities
Unlike Piraeus Port, Rafina has only one main entrance for all the ferries, so you don’t have to search for a specific gate; you only need the name of your ferry. During the summer, Rafina Port gets busy, so it is highly recommended that you arrive at least 1 hour before your ferry’s scheduled departure.
Rafina Port is fully equipped with almost everything a traveler will need. Walking distance from the entrance, you will find ATMs, ferry ticket offices, mini-markets, kiosks, tavernas, cafes, and waiting areas.
Additionally, outside the port there is gas station and a parking area where you can leave your car or refill it with fuel.
Things to do in Rafina port and places to stay
If you have an early morning or a late-arriving ferry, staying overnight in Rafina can sometimes be very convenient.
Near the port, you will find about eight different options, from hotels to Airbnbs and, of course, plenty of local restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood. The main city of Rafina is very close, where you can find many stores and useful things. Moreover, if you are interested in exploring the area, you can easily walk to the church of Agios Nikolaos or visit the Folklore museum of the Association of Trigliani.
For beach time, you can go to Marikes Beach with golden sand), which is about 1.5 Km (1 mile) from Rafina, or to Ble Limanaki Beach, which is rocky with deep water.
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How to depart from Rafina Port
Like every port, Rafina has a taxi rank next to the main entrance, which is very easy to find. If you want to use the public bus (KTEL), the bus station is located opposite the port entrance. Before getting onto a bus, make sure it is going to Athens.
On top of the above-mentioned options, you can choose a private transfer from Rafina Port to your hotel or Athens city center. With this option, an English-speaking driver will be at the port holding a sign with your name near your ferry and will drive you safely and comfortably to your desired destination, avoiding you having to deal with the local taxi drivers or public transportation.
Cozy Pickups provides comfortable, punctual, and reliable transportation options with friendly drivers to Athens city center, hotels, and Athens Airport.
Travelers choose Cozy Pickups because of:
- Professional English-speaking drivers
- Clean, air-conditioned vehicles
- Real-time flight and ferry monitoring
- 24/7 availability
- Fixed prices with no hidden fees
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Frequently asked questions about Rafina Port
Which islands can I reach from Rafina Port?
Rafina serves the northern and central Cyclades, including Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, Paros, and Naxos, as well as Marmari in Evia.
How early should I arrive at Rafina Port before my ferry departs?
During summer, it is better to arrive one hour before departure to allow time for check-in, boarding, and traffic delays.
How much is a taxi from Athens city center to Rafina Port?
The taxi fare from Athens to Rafina Port ranges between €40 and €55, depending on traffic, time of day, and luggage. During night hours, a small surcharge applies.
Can I book a private taxi transfer to Rafina Port online?
Absolutely. You can easily book a private taxi transfer to Rafina Port through www.cozypickups.com. Your professional driver will meet you at your hotel or the airport, assist with luggage, and ensure a smooth, punctual ride directly to your ferry.
Are ferries from Rafina Port available all year?
Ferries to Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos operate year-round, while routes to Paros and Naxos usually run seasonally from spring to early autumn.
How do I get from Athens Airport to Rafina Port?
The fastest and most comfortable option is to book a private transfer with Cozy Pickups, which takes around 25 minutes. Alternatively, KTEL buses and taxis are available at the airport.
How long is the taxi ride from Athens city center to Rafina Port?
The taxi ride from Athens city center (Syntagma or Plaka areas) to Rafina Port usually takes 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. During rush hour, it may take longer, so plan accordingly.
Are there restaurants and shops near Rafina Port?
Absolutely. You’ll find several cafés, bakeries, tavernas, and mini-markets within walking distance of the port, perfect for a quick bite or coffee before boarding.
