Islands within easy reach
If you fly into Athens with limited time, the islands of the Saronic Gulf are the easiest way to add some island life to a city break. Ferries and faster hydrofoils leave from the port of Piraeus, and the nearest islands can be reached in around an hour.
Each island has a distinct personality, so it is worth choosing based on what you want: beaches, food, history or car-free calm.
Because they are so close to the capital, these islands also feel more Greek and less purely touristic than some more famous names, with Athenian families filling the tavernas on summer weekends.
Aegina and Agistri
Aegina is the closest major island and a favourite weekend escape for Athenians. It is known for its pistachios, which you will see sold everywhere, and for the hilltop Temple of Aphaia, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. The main town has a lively harbour, and there are small beaches around the coast.
Tiny Agistri, a short hop beyond Aegina, is greener and quieter, with pine trees running down to clear water. It is a good choice if you want swimming coves and a sleepy atmosphere rather than sightseeing.
Poros and Hydra
Poros is separated from the Peloponnese mainland by a narrow channel, so its harbour town looks out over the mainland coast rather than the open sea. It has a pretty clock tower viewpoint, pine-backed beaches and a relaxed, family-friendly feel.
Hydra is the glamorous one. Cars are banned, and luggage is carried by donkeys, mules and handcarts. Its stone mansions rise up from a horseshoe harbour, and the island has long attracted artists and writers. Beaches are mostly small and rocky, with swimming from platforms near the town, but the atmosphere is the main attraction.
Day trip or overnight?
Aegina is easy as a day trip. Hydra and Poros are possible in a day but are much better with a night, when the day visitors have left and the harbours quieten down. Organised cruises visiting three islands in one day are available, but they leave little time on each.
Ferry schedules vary by season and operator, so check the latest timetables and book fast boats ahead in summer. When planning, remember that Piraeus is a large port with several gates, and finding the right departure point can take time.
Good to know
- Arrive at Piraeus early and confirm your ferry's departure gate.
- Stay at least one night on Hydra to see it at its calmest.
- Try pistachio sweets and ice cream on Aegina.