Getting from Athens to Tinos

If you are heading to Tinos from Athens you are going to one of the most layered and rewarding islands in the Cyclades. Tinos is one of the most venerated pilgrimage destinations in Greece, with the Church of Panagia Evangelistria holding the most sacred icon in the country. On August 15th, the feast of the Assumption, pilgrims crawl up the street on their knees from the port to the church in a scene that is genuinely moving. But Tinos is also an island of extraordinary marble craftsmanship, a tradition that produced some of the finest sculptors in modern Greek history, and the villages of the interior are some of the most beautiful in the Cyclades. The food is outstanding and the Venetian dovecotes scattered across the hills are unlike anything else in Greece.

Take the ferry

The Rafina to Tinos ferry is one of the most frequent Cyclades connections from Athens, with up to 12 daily crossings year-round. Rafina is around 30 kilometres from central Athens and around 25 kilometres from Athens Airport, making it the most convenient port if you are arriving by air. The crossing to Tinos takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on the vessel. Piraeus also has connections to Tinos in summer with several weekly sailings.

Getting there by air

Tinos has no airport. The Rafina ferry is the most practical option and at under 3 hours it is a manageable and enjoyable crossing.

Your best option

Take the ferry from Rafina. It is one of the most frequent and convenient Cyclades connections from Athens and if you are arriving at Athens Airport the port is a short taxi or bus ride away. The arrival into Tinos port with the church visible above the waterfront is one of the more distinctive approaches in the Cyclades.