Karystos Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Karystos is easily accessible via a combination of road and ferry connections. From Athens, travelers can drive approximately 2.5 hours to Rafina port, followed by a short 1-hour ferry crossing to Marmari, and then a 30-minute drive to Karystos. Alternatively, you can drive from Athens across the bridge at Chalkida to southern Evia (about 3 hours total). Regular bus services connect Athens to Karystos, with journey times around 4 hours including all connections. For those arriving by car, ample parking is available near the ferry terminal, though spaces can fill quickly during summer weekends.

Nestled at the southernmost tip of Evia island, Karystos welcomes visitors with its stunning seafront promenade and impressive mountain backdrop. This charming port town blends traditional Greek island character with modern amenities, creating an authentic yet comfortable experience for travelers. As an important ferry connection point between the mainland and the Cyclades, Karystos offers both a delightful destination in its own right and a gateway to further island adventures.

Karystos enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. The prime time to visit falls between May and October when temperatures are pleasant and sea conditions optimal for ferry crossings. July and August bring the warmest weather (often exceeding 30°C) and busiest periods, while June and September offer warm seas with fewer crowds. The annual Karystia Festival in late July features cultural performances and local food, making it a particularly vibrant time to visit. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during summer months, with reduced schedules during winter.

Karystos serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring nearby islands via ferry connections. Andros, the northernmost Cycladic island, can be reached in approximately 1.5 hours, offering traditional villages and beautiful hiking trails. The cosmopolitan island of Tinos lies about 2 hours away by ferry, famous for its religious significance and marble craftsmanship. Adventurous travelers can continue to Mykonos (3 hours) for its legendary beaches and nightlife. The ferry journey itself provides stunning views of the Aegean Sea, with opportunities to spot dolphins and enjoy the spectacular approach to each island's distinctive harbor.

Karystos offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue within easy reach of the port. Explore the imposing 13th-century Venetian castle of Bourtzi standing guard over the harbor, providing panoramic views across the bay. The Archaeological Museum houses fascinating local artifacts, including unique dragon houses dating back to ancient times. For nature enthusiasts, Mount Ochi's trails reveal spectacular vistas and mysterious ancient structures. Food lovers should sample the local specialty of goat cooked with herbs in red sauce (katsikaki) at waterfront tavernas, paired with crisp local wines. The old town's narrow streets, just steps from the port, reveal artisan shops and traditional cafes perfect for people-watching.

Karystos was once famed throughout the ancient world for its unique green-veined marble, which adorned buildings from Rome to Constantinople and can still be seen in museums worldwide. The mysterious 'Dragon Houses' scattered across Mount Ochi near Karystos have puzzled archaeologists for centuries, with their massive stone blocks fitted together without mortar in a technique that remains unexplained. According to local legend, the strong winds that sometimes affect the bay are caused by the breath of Aeolus, the ancient Greek keeper of winds, who supposedly resided in a cave nearby. The town's name derives from the ancient Greek 'karyon,' meaning 'nut,' possibly referring to the abundant walnut trees that once covered the region.