Karystos is located at the southern edge of Evia, opposite Rafina, offering a unique combination of sea, mountains, and history. Overlooking the Aegean Sea and easily connected to Rafina via Marmari, it caters to all types of travelers. From sandy beaches to the majestic Mount Ochi, Karystos is ideal for both relaxing holidays and active nature excursions, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and lovers of authentic Greece.
Karystos
Discover Karystos – a seaside destination in Evia that perfectly blends mountains, sea, and authentic Greek hospitality.
Karystos, located at the southernmost tip of Evia, is a coastal town with a distinct island character and impressive natural surroundings. The striking Bourtzi Castle and the summit of Mount Ochi offer history and adventure, while organized beaches, seaside fish tavernas, and cafés along the harbor provide moments of relaxation. Easily accessible from Athens via the Marmari–Rafina ferry route, Karystos is an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and travelers seeking the authentic side of Greece, combining sea, culture, and outdoor experiences.
Highlights
Bourtzi Castle of Karystos
The Bourtzi Castle stands along the seaside road of Karystos. Built in 1350, this medieval fortress features multiple battlements and 24 defensive gates. Venetian builders reused marble elements from a Roman mausoleum located in the town’s central market.
Beaches
Karystos offers a wide variety of beaches. Start with those close to town, then explore westward toward Paximada and eastward to the Bouros area, where crystal-clear waters and diverse coastal landscapes await.
Castello Rosso
The ruins of this 11th-century Byzantine fortress, later occupied by Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans, lie 4 km north of Karystos. Behind the castle, an ancient aqueduct once carried water from the mountain springs to the Bourtzi Castle.
Dimosari Gorge
Dimosari Gorge is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring dozens of springs, waterfalls, ancient riverside forests, and rich wildlife. The constantly changing scenery makes hiking through the gorge a truly immersive natural experience.
Select your Travel type
Search destination
No trips were found matching your selection.
IDEAL DESTINATION
A seaside escape full of authenticity
Gastronomy – Local Flavors You Must Try
Karystos is a paradise for Mediterranean cuisine lovers, blending seafood with mountain flavors. Local tavernas serve fresh fish, calamari, sardines, octopus, shrimp, and lobster pasta, while the nearby mountain villages offer excellent local meats and high-quality honey. Try Karystos-produced cheeses, local wine, and tsipouro, and finish your meal with syrupy desserts or homemade loukoumia for a truly authentic Karystos dining experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Karystos and the surrounding area is during the summer months, when you can combine your stay with swimming at the region’s beautiful beaches and unique nature excursions.
How to get around in Karystos
Transportation options to/from the airport
Travel to Karystos by road with a private car via Chalkida. You can also use intercity KTEL buses. Alternatively, reach the area by ferry from the port of Rafina to Marmari, or from the port of Agia Marina in Attica to Nea Styra in Evia, and then continue by road to Karystos.
Public Transportation
Getting around Karystos can be done by private car or by using public transportation and taxis. Discover the beauty of Karystos by walking through the town center and its neighborhoods, as the city is also very bike-friendly.
Questions / Answers
Q&A
By ferry from Rafina to Marmari (about 1 hour) and then a 10-minute drive. Alternatively, you can reach Karystos by car via Chalkida.
Bourtzi Castle, the Dragon House (Drakospito) on Mount Ochi, beautiful beaches, and the Karystia Museum.
Yes. Organized beaches such as Gallida, Potami, and Psili Ammos are located very close to the center.
Absolutely. It offers a relaxed environment, safe beaches, and a wide range of accommodation and dining options.
Fresh seafood, local meats, Karystia cheeses, and Evia wine with views of the open sea.
![City Break with food walking tour in Athens [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Athens-AdobeStock_125876014-scaled-e1769512144460.jpeg "City Break with food walking tour in Athens [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Thessaloniki-destinations-1300x450px.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1750314551741530396.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Tinos.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Drama_fisi-scaled.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Nafplio-destination.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/spa___-scaled.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
![The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]](https://mazitravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/ninemia-scaled.jpg "The wine routes in Northern Greece [4days]")
