# Where to Stay Near Athens Airport and Rafina Port: Artemida (Loutsa) > * Conveniently located 10-12 km from Athens International Airport (ATH). > * Easy access to Rafina Port (6-8 km) for Cyclades ferries. > * Offers a relaxed coastal town atmosphere with beaches and seaside dining. > * Provides an alternative to corporate airport hotels or busy central Athens. > * Many apartments offer 24/7 keyless self check-in for flexible arrivals/departures. ![Where to Stay Near Athens Airport and Rafina Port: Artemida (Loutsa)](https://keepitgreece.com/post-images/4206897207129120361_o.jpg) If you have an early morning flight from Athens International Airport (ATH), a late-night arrival, or a morning ferry from Rafina Port, choosing where to stay can make a big difference. **Artemida (Loutsa) i** s one of the most convenient alternatives to staying at an airport hotel or in central Athens. Located on the east coast of Attica, Artemida combines relatively easy access to Athens Airport and Rafina Port with something you do not get at most airport hotels: a beach, seaside restaurants, cafes, and a more relaxed atmosphere. | Expert Tip | If you have an early flight from Athens Airport or a morning ferry from Rafina Port, **Artemida (Loutsa)** is a convenient place to stay. It is close to both transport hubs while offering beaches, cafes, restaurants, and a quieter seaside atmosphere than central Athens. For travelers who only need a convenient overnight stay, Artemida can offer a particularly good balance between **location, comfort, and price**. Why Stay in Artemida Instead of Central Athens? ----------------------------------------------- Central Athens is an excellent choice if you want to spend time sightseeing, but it is not always practical when your main priority is catching an early flight or ferry. From central Athens, the journey to Athens Airport can take considerably longer, especially during busy traffic periods. Artemida, by comparison, is located close to the airport and offers a quieter coastal setting. This makes Artemida particularly suitable for: * travelers with an early morning flight from Athens Airport * passengers arriving late at night at ATH * travelers catching a morning ferry from Rafina Port * couples looking for a quieter overnight stay * visitors who prefer a beachside location to an airport hotel * guests looking for an apartment with self check-in Artemida vs. Athens Airport Hotels vs. Central Athens ----------------------------------------------------- | **Feature** | **Airport Hotels** | **Central Athens** | **Artemida (Loutsa)** | |------------------------------|------------------------------|--------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | **Transfer to ATH Airport** | 2-5 mins (Walking / Shuttle) | 40-60 mins (Traffic dependent) | 12-18 mins (10-12 km) | | **Transfer to Rafina Port** | 20--25 mins | 45--60 mins | 10-15 mins (6-8 km) | | **Typical Taxi Cost to ATH** | €10-€15 (or Free Shuttle) | €40-€55 (Higher at night) | €25-€35 (Day/Night rates) | | **Atmosphere** | Corporate / Transit hub | Busy Urban | Relaxed Coastal Town | | **Beach Access** | No | No | Yes (Sandy coastline) | | **Dining Options** | Hotel restaurants | Extensive city dining | Local seaside tavernas \& bakeries | | **Accommodation Style** | Standard hotel chains | Hotels \& urban rentals | Private apartments \& coastal stays | Travel times vary depending on traffic and the exact location of your accommodation, so it is always worth checking the route before booking. How Far Is Artemida From Athens Airport? ---------------------------------------- Artemida is located approximately **10 to 12 km from Athens International Airport (ATH)**. By taxi or private transfer, the ride takes just **12 to 18 minutes** and typically costs between **€25 and €35**, depending on the time of day and night tariffs. This proximity eliminates the stress of navigating morning traffic jams on the Attiki Odos motorway before sunrise. How Far Is Artemida From Rafina Port? ------------------------------------- [Rafina Port](https://myartemida.gr/en/article/direct-bus-from-athens-airport-to-rafina-and-artemida---timetable-prices--stops/) is located just **6 to 8 km north of Artemida** , making it a quick **10 to 15-minute taxi drive** (costing roughly **€15 to €20**). Rafina is the primary departure hub for ferries heading to the northern Cyclades, including **Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos**. Staying overnight in Artemida allows you to wake up just minutes from the ferry docks without having to cross the entire Attica region at dawn. A Seaside Alternative to an Airport Hotel ----------------------------------------- Staying near the airport does not have to mean being confined to an industrial zone or a sterile transit lobby. Artemida offers a long sandy [beachfront](https://myartemida.gr/en/article/best-sandy-beaches-in-athens-guide-to-artemida-loutsa/) lined with traditional bakeries, specialty coffee shops, and seaside tavernas serving fresh seafood. You can check in, enjoy dinner right on the water, take an evening stroll along the coast, and still wake up within minutes of the airport check-in desks. Apartments and Self Check-in in Artemida ---------------------------------------- Artemida features a large selection of modern vacation rentals and private apartments tailored specifically for transit passengers. Many properties offer **24/7 keyless entry and automated self check-in** , which is essential if you are landing late at night or departing before standard front-desk hours. For example, well-appointed properties like **[Whitealcyone Fit \& Zen Apartment](https://whitealcyone.gr/)** provide independent access, comfortable amenities, and a quiet setting tailored for seamless airport and ferry layovers. **Who Should Consider Staying in Artemida?** * **Early Flyers \& Late Arrivals:** Anyone needing a 15-minute transfer to ATH. * **Cyclades Ferry Travelers:** Anyone sailing from Rafina Port to Andros, Tinos, or Mykonos. * **Apartment Seekers:** Travelers who prefer private, fully equipped apartments over cookie-cutter hotel rooms. * **Beach Lovers:** Visitors wanting sea air and waterfront dining before their journey home. *(If your primary goal is visiting the Acropolis, historic Plaka, or central museums, staying in central Athens is the better choice).* Who Should Consider Staying in Artemida? ---------------------------------------- Artemida is not necessarily the best location for every trip to Athens. If your main goal is to visit the Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki, and the historic center, staying in central Athens will usually be more convenient. But if your priority is **airport access, a morning ferry, or a relaxed overnight stay**, Artemida becomes much more attractive. It is especially well suited to travelers who want: * a convenient location near ATH * easy access to Rafina Port * a quieter alternative to central Athens * a beach within walking distance * local restaurants and cafes * a private apartment rather than a traditional hotel * flexible self check-in for late arrivals Frequently Asked Questions -------------------------- ### How far is Artemida from Athens International Airport? Artemida is approximately 10 km from Athens International Airport, depending on the exact location of your accommodation. The journey by car is usually relatively short, although travel time can vary with traffic. ### Is Artemida a good place to stay before an early flight from Athens? Yes. Artemida can be a convenient option for an early flight because it is close to ATH while offering more of a seaside-town atmosphere than the airport area. ### How far is Rafina Port from Artemida? Rafina Port is only a short drive from Artemida. The exact travel time depends on your accommodation, traffic, and the route used. ### Is Artemida good for an overnight stay before a ferry? Yes. Artemida is particularly convenient for travelers catching morning ferries from Rafina, including routes toward Andros, Tinos, and other Cycladic destinations. ### Can I find accommodation with late-night self check-in in Artemida? Yes. Some apartments and vacation rentals offer self check-in or keyless access. Availability varies by property, so it is important to confirm the check-in procedure before booking. ### Is Artemida better than staying in central Athens for a layover? It depends on your plans. For sightseeing, central Athens is usually the better choice. For an early flight, late arrival, or morning ferry from Rafina, Artemida can be considerably more convenient. Artemida: A Practical Base Between Athens Airport and Rafina ------------------------------------------------------------ For travelers who need a place to stay between **Athens Airport and Rafina Port**, Artemida offers a useful combination of convenience and comfort. You can stay close to the airport, remain within easy reach of Rafina, and enjoy a genuine seaside setting instead of spending the night in an airport hotel or navigating central Athens. For a short layover or an overnight stay before an early ferry or flight, **Artemida (Loutsa) is worth considering as one of the most practical coastal bases in East Attica.**