Day Trip from Athens to Porto Rafti

Day Trip from Athens to

Peaceful Porto Rafti

Porto Rafti is a short 30 minute drive from Athens and one of the closest areas nearby to glimpse authentic Greek life in a small, coastal town. Tucked along the eastern coastline of Greece, this hidden gem is waiting to be explored. The main draw is that there are very few tourists around, though the area is still buzzing with local activity. While the allure of Greece’s iconic islands often steals the spotlight, this charming seaside town offers many of the very same things – in a more authentic fashion – without the hassle of a ferry or having to compete with crowds.

Join us as we uncover the enchanting allure of Porto Rafti and explore a side of Greece often overlooked by island-hopping adventures!

Porto Rafti's History

Evidence from archaeological discoveries and references in Greek history and mythology reveal that Porto Rafti, also known as "Mesogea Harbour," has held significant strategic importance as the gateway to Attica and an essential alternative harbor for Athens during times of blockade at Piraeus by enemy vessels.

When to go

Porto Rafti is best experienced as a day trip from Athens with a rental car. March through November are the best times to come with March, April, October, and November being especially peaceful. The months in between will be buzzing with local activity and warm enough to spend the day in the water.

Where to go

Kalos Gialos Beach & Cove

Showing up without much of a plan, we stumbled upon Kalos Gialos thinking it was the main beach. Instead, we discovered a small beach leading to the picturesque, secluded cove that is featured in most of the photos on this page. It’s a true hidden gem and our favorite spot in the area.

The beach has uninterrupted views of the three “islets” in the bay. These islets are basically unique rock islands and are named Rafti, Raftopoula, and Prasso.

Visit this hidden gem for:

best views of the islets,
photography at the cove at the end of the beach,
swimming in a more private area, or
lunch at the single restaurant on the beach, also named Kalos Gialos, that has tables right on the water!

Avlaki Beach

This is the main public beach and it has more facilities available. It also has more fine sand to hang out for a few hours and is recognized each year for its crystal clear water. Perhaps pop in here after lunch to do some serious lounging and swimming!

The Main Harbor

After you’ve worked up an appetite at the beach and are ready to see some buzzing local activity, head to the Main Harbor for a walk on the docks. It feels like a fishing village. Several tavernas line the harbor and serve fresh fish and seafood right by the sea. To find this area, type Al Porto restaurant in your GPS, but choose which taverna to stop at upon arrival.