Getting to Andros

One of the greatest qualities of Andros is its tranquillity; one of the principle reasons for this is the lack of airport.  The island is the closest of The Cyclades to mainland Greece and is served by an excellent Ferry route ( www.greekferries.gr ).  The passage time from the mainland port of Rafina to Gavrio is 2 hours.  The ferries are large and comfortable, Andros is the first port of call.  They then proceed to the islands of Tinos and Mykonos, where, for the 'island hopper', ferries to the many other Cycladean islands operate.

The modern new airport at Athens is close to the port of Rafina.  There are a number of ways to travel to the port.  The easiest but most costly is by taxi.  The taxi rank is directly outside the arrivals hall.  The cost increases if travelling before 0600.  After this time one can expect (Spring 2005) to pay approx 35 Euro, this may increase if there is a large amount of luggage. Journey time 40 mins.  If required,  pre-booked taxis can be provided with an English speaking driver ( info@allaboutandros.com ).

There is also an excellent bus service direct to the port.  The cost (Spring 2005) is 3 Euro, journey time 25 minutes (buses are allowed to use airport perimeter road).  The bus stop at the airport is a regional one and coloured orange.  On leaving arrivals (Exit 3) there is a large hotel (Sofitel) directly opposite. The bus stop for Rafina is located before crossing the road to the hotel extrance.  A time-table is displayed in both English and Greek.  The first bus is approx 0545. 

The bus or taxi will take you to the port town of Rafina.  Dependent on the time of day, the ferry may be in port.  During the summer season, the first ferry departs  at approximately 0730, the last one of the day leaves at 1730, Monday to Thursday and 1930 Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  It is worth checking on the web for ferry times ( www.greekferries.gr ) as timetables change.  There are a number of booking offices by the entrance to the harbour gates, each company has its own office,  departure time should be confirmed before purchase.  Tickets MUST be purchased before boarding the ferry (Spring 2005, 9 Euro single).  At either side of the lower car deck where foot passengers board there are luggage racks for suitcases etc. 

Upon arrival at the port of Gavrio, taxis and buses are available.  Car hire facilities, if required, are located directly opposite the quayside.

Gavrio