Discover Cyclades
Discover Cyclades
Book your Rafina to Syros ferry for 2026. Fastest trip: 2h, tickets from €30.00. Compare operators, daily schedules & insider tips.
Ferry Route
Duration
2h
From
€30.00
Frequency
3-4 times per week
passengers
From
€60
2 × €30
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Fastest crossing
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Daily departures
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Ferry operators
The ferry from Rafina to Syros (Ermoupoli) takes about 2h and fares start from €30.00. There are up to 3-4 times per week crossings a day in high season, run by Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. Book online to compare departure times and secure the lowest fare.
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The Athens (Rafina) to Syros ferry is one of the Cyclades' most popular connections, operating 3-4 times per week with journey times from 2h to 3h 36m and tickets from €30.00. The route is served by Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries, with vehicle transport available on conventional ferries. Ferries operate Apr - Oct.
Syros is celebrated for its elegant neoclassical capital Ermoupoli, the administrative capital of the Cyclades, with vibrant cultural scene, beautiful architecture, and authentic year-round life. Whether you're drawn by the beaches, the local cuisine, or the authentic Cycladic atmosphere, Syros rewards visitors who make the crossing.
Insider Tip: For the best experience sailing to Syros, book a morning departure, you'll arrive with the whole day ahead of you. Shoulder season (May or late September) offers the sweet spot: fewer crowds, lower prices, and gorgeous warm weather. If you're traveling July–August, book tickets at least 4–6 weeks ahead.
Ferry Companies
High-speed ferry
From
€30.00
Duration
2h
Conventional ferry
From
€30.00
Duration
2h
Schedule
Availability
| Month | Frequency | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3 days per week | 3h 36m | €30 |
| February | 3 days per week | 3h 36m | €30 |
| March | 3 days per week | 3h 36m | €30 |
| April | 3 days per week | 2h | €35 |
| May | 3 days per week | 2h | €35 |
| June | 4 days per week | 2h | €39 |
| July | 4 days per week | 2h | €39 |
| August | 4 days per week | 2h | €39 |
| September | 4 days per week | 2h | €39 |
| October | 3 days per week | 2h | €35 |
| November | 3 days per week | 3h 36m | €30 |
| December | 3 days per week | 3h 36m | €30 |
Pricing
| Passengers | Rafina → Syros (Ermoupoli) | Syros (Ermoupoli) → Rafina |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Adult | €30.00 | €30.00 |
| 2 Adults | €60 | €60 |
| 2 Adults + Car | €150 | €150 |
| Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) | €90 | €90 |
Operators
The Rafina to Syros route is served by Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. Here's a detailed breakdown of each operator's offering:
Golden Star Ferries operates modern high-speed vessels, particularly strong on the Rafina–Mykonos–Tinos–Andros corridor and seasonal Santorini routes. Known for good value and reliable service.
Fleet: High-speed ferries (Superrunner, Tera Jet), carrying 400–700 passengers with vehicle capacity on select vessels
Fast Ferries operates both high-speed and conventional vessels on key Cyclades routes, offering a reliable middle-ground option between the speed of Seajets and the comfort of Blue Star. Particularly strong on northern Cyclades routes from Rafina.
Fleet: Conventional ferries and high-speed vessels (Fast Ferries Andros, Theologos P), serving both Piraeus and Rafina ports
| Operator | Ferry Type | Duration | Price From | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Star Ferries | High-Speed | 2h – 3h 36m | €30.00 | ⚡ Limited |
| Fast Ferries | Conventional | 2h – 3h 36m | €30.00 | ✅ Yes |
Our recommendation: For the fastest crossing, choose a high-speed service. For more comfort, space, and the option to take your vehicle, go conventional. Both options are reliable, the right choice depends on your priorities.
More routes
On Board
Ferries on the Rafina to Syros route offer comfortable travel with a full range of onboard amenities. Here's what to expect from each operator:
Golden Star Ferries operates modern high-speed vessels, particularly strong on the Rafina–Mykonos–Tinos–Andros corridor and seasonal Santorini routes. Known for good value and reliable service.
Fleet on this route: High-speed ferries (Superrunner, Tera Jet), carrying 400–700 passengers with vehicle capacity on select vessels
Seat & Cabin Classes: Economy Seats: Numbered airplane-style seats. Business/VIP Lounge: Premium seating area on select vessels. Cabins on Superrunner for longer routes.
Luggage Policy: Up to 50 kg per passenger, free. No formal check-in required.
Pets: Pets accepted free with valid health documentation. Small pets with owner in cabin; larger pets in designated pet zones.
Vehicles: Vehicle transport available on select Golden Star vessels. Cars from €30–70. Motorcycles from €10–25.
Fast Ferries operates both high-speed and conventional vessels on key Cyclades routes, offering a reliable middle-ground option between the speed of Seajets and the comfort of Blue Star. Particularly strong on northern Cyclades routes from Rafina.
Fleet on this route: Conventional ferries and high-speed vessels (Fast Ferries Andros, Theologos P), serving both Piraeus and Rafina ports
Seat & Cabin Classes: Economy Seats: Standard indoor seating. Deck: Open-air seating on conventional vessels. Cabins available on select conventional vessels.
Luggage Policy: Standard flexible policy, up to 50 kg recommended, no formal restrictions. Luggage stored in onboard racks.
Pets: Pets accepted with health certificates. Animals under 10 kg with owner in cabin area; larger pets in designated pet areas. Free when included in booking.
Vehicles: Conventional Fast Ferries vessels have full vehicle garages. Car transport from €20–60. Motorcycles from €8–20. Book vehicle space early for peak season.
All ferries on this route have clean restrooms, luggage storage areas, and food and beverage service. In peak season (July–August), we'd recommend reserving a specific seat or cabin class rather than traveling on an open deck ticket.
Travel Tips
Port of Rafina, located 33 km east of Athens city center and just 26 km from Athens International Airport, is the faster alternative to Piraeus for northern Cyclades routes. KTEL buses depart every 30–60 minutes from Pedion Areos park in central Athens (€3.50, ~1 hour). Taxis from the airport cost around €35. The port has one terminal with 13 standard docks and 2 high-speed docks, all within easy walking distance. Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure. Limited free parking; paid lots nearby.
Arriving in Syros feels like arriving in a real Greek city. Ermoupoli has 13,000+ residents, a working waterfront, and a cultural scene that continues year-round. The famous Apollo Theatre (modeled on La Scala, Milan) is a 5-minute walk from the dock. The historic district of Ano Syros (a Catholic medieval settlement) is visible on the upper hill. Loukoumades (Greek donuts) and loukoum (Turkish delight) are the island's famous sweet treats, try them fresh from the old-town shops.
Golden Star is particularly competitive on Rafina–Mykonos, Tinos–Andros, and seasonal Mykonos–Santorini routes. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for peak summer sailings.
Syros is celebrated for its elegant neoclassical capital Ermoupoli, the administrative capital of the Cyclades, with vibrant cultural scene, beautiful architecture, and authentic year-round life. Don't miss exploring the main town (Chora), the local beaches, and the traditional tavernas. For a full guide to Syros's top attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems, visit our Syros island guide.
Island Hopping
After arriving in Syros, extend your Cycladic adventure with these popular onward ferry connections:
3-Island Express (4–5 days): Spend 1–2 days in Syros, then ferry to Tinos for 1 day, and continue to Mykonos for 1–2 days before returning to Athens. Total: a perfect Cyclades sampler that packs in three distinct island personalities.
Use our ferry search engine to find the best schedules and prices for your multi-island itinerary, or browse our island hopping guides for curated route inspiration.
Things to Do
Discover the top tours, excursions, and experiences waiting for you in Syros.
Explore Syros's most beautiful coastlines by boat or guided tour.
Discover the history, architecture, and local traditions of Syros.
Taste the authentic flavours of Syros with local food and wine experiences.
Where to Stay
From boutique hotels to traditional villas, find the perfect accommodation for your Syros stay.
Island Guides
Discover the best beaches, hotels, restaurants, and activities on the islands of this route.
Beaches, hotels, restaurants & things to do
Beaches, hotels, restaurants & things to do
💡 Pro tip: Read our Syros guide before your trip to discover hidden gems. Don't forget to organize your stay early by checking our curated Hotels in Syros and securing your mobility through Syros Car Rentals directly at the port or airport fees-free.
Arrange a rental car · Syros
Compare local rental cars for Syros and arrange delivery before you arrive.
Route Map
FAQ
The ferry from Rafina to Syros takes between 2h and 3h 36m, depending on the vessel type and operator. High-speed catamarans offer the fastest crossing at approximately 2h, while conventional ferries take up to 3h 36m but offer more spacious travel with outdoor decks, cafeterias, and cabin options. Journey times may be slightly longer in winter due to sea conditions.
Ferry tickets from Rafina to Syros start from €30.00 for a standard economy seat in low season. Prices vary by operator, seat class, and time of year, peak season (July–August) fares are typically 25–35% higher. Business class seats and private cabins cost more. Families can save by booking a 4-berth cabin. Use Ferryhopper to compare all available fares in real time.
Ferries operate 3-4 times per week during the main season (Apr - Oct). In peak summer (July–August), there may be multiple daily sailings. Service can be reduced or suspended during winter months on some routes. The route is served by Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. Check the latest schedules on Ferryhopper for exact departure times.
Yes, conventional ferries on this route have vehicle garages and can carry cars, motorcycles, campervans, and even buses. Vehicle spaces are limited and sell out fast in summer, so book at least 4–6 weeks ahead if you're traveling July–August. High-speed catamarans on this route generally don't carry vehicles. Arrive at the port at least 60–90 minutes before departure when traveling with a vehicle.
The best time to visit Syros is late May through early October. June and September offer the ideal balance: warm swimming weather, lower prices than peak season, fewer crowds, and the best ferry connections. July–August is peak season, the most lively but also the most crowded and expensive. May is an excellent shoulder month with pleasant weather and very few tourists. Syros is known for its elegant neoclassical capital Ermoupoli, the administrative capital of the Cyclades, with vibrant cultural scene, beautiful architecture, and authentic year-round life.
The route is served by Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. For the fastest crossing, choose a high-speed service (typically Seajets or Golden Star). For most comfort or if you're traveling with a vehicle, choose a conventional ferry (Blue Star Ferries or similar). For the best price, compare all options on Ferryhopper, prices can vary significantly by departure time and booking lead time.
The easiest way to book is through Ferryhopper, the leading Greek ferry booking platform. Simply enter your departure port, destination, and travel date to see all available sailings, compare prices across operators, and book securely online. Tickets are delivered by email and can be used on your phone. You can also book directly on each operator's website, but Ferryhopper shows all options in one place for easy comparison.
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