Summary
Traveling in Greece? Most Greek island hoppers soon become familiar with the ports of Rafina and Piraeus, both on the Attic coast near Athens. These two ports serve most of the ferry traffic out of the Athens area.
Furthermore, down at the tip of the Attic peninsula, there is the lesser-known but convenient ferry port, Lavrion. Although it offers more limited connections and schedules, it can fill in gaps in your journey through Greece.
The Port Town of Lavrion
Lavrion is the prettiest of the three ports, resembling a small Greek island in its charm. This port town should not be overlooked, especially if you need to spend a day there. It features a small Archaeological Museum and an intriguing Mineralogical Museum, showcasing the local mining heritage. In addition, Lavrion boasts a giant “Mystery Hole”, a geological curiosity resembling a giant bubble that has been popped, leaving behind a 200-foot deep pit. Its origins are still debated, with some believing it to have resulted from a meteorite impact.
Lavrion, or Laurium, has a fascinating ancient history. Once serving the profitable silver mines in antiquity, its sheltered bay bustled with activity. It was also the terminus for a railway line until 1957, when attention shifted back towards Athens. Today, its modern marina accommodates yachts and offers essential services.
The relocation of Athens International Airport to Spata gave Lavrion a boost, as it is merely 30 minutes away, making it a more convenient ferry port than either Piraeus or Rafina. Additionally, it serves as a waypoint along the route to Cape Sounion. Rockhounds, mining enthusiasts, and geologists often explore the remnants of ancient mining operations, and the extensive ancient theater at Thorikos is also nearby.
The port is opposite Makronissos Island, which in ancient times was called Helena after Helen of Troy and later became a prison island.
Places to Stay in Lavrio
Accommodations in Lavrio are somewhat limited. For those seeking more than basic lodging, the once-grand Hotel Belle Epoch is an option. However, nearby resorts located close to Cape Sounion may provide better choices for a comfortable stay.
Ferries from Lavrio
Ferry schedules generally indicate Lavrion as either Lavrio or Laurio. The primary ferry activity connects Lavrio to the charming island of Kea, a favored resort for Athenians and other tourists, as well as housing a variety of hotels and expatriates.
The local Goutos Lines operates the Marina Express ferry along this route, which also serves the Greek island of Kythnos. Moreover, in recent years, high-speed ferries have begun to make stops in Lavrio during the summer months. Historically, NEL provided three main routes to and from Laurion:
- Laurio – Ag – Eystratios – Lemnos – Kavala
- Syros – Kythnos – Kea – Laurio
- Laurio – Psara – Mesta
Ferry Service from Lavrion and Other Greek Ports
If you are planning ahead, keep in mind that Greek ferry schedules typically are not available until the service begins. For instance, a route starting on March 1 may not be listed until that date approaches, making advance planning somewhat challenging. Furthermore, ferries may not be listed for online reservations until the schedule has commenced. Absence from a ferry listing does not necessarily indicate unavailability for your desired timeframe. A simple phone call to the ferry line or port authorities will provide you with the required information. For Lavrion, the port authority’s contact number is (011 30) 22920 25249.
