Escape to the Argo-Saronic Islands and discover lively towns, sun-drenched beaches and delicious seafood a stone’s throw from Athens. Take your pick of seven postcard-perfect islands - Aegina, Agistri, Dokos, Poros, Salamina, Spetses and Ydhra. The Argo-Saronic Islands aren’t just beautiful - they’re alive with history and culture. Visit an ancient Greek temple, explore Byzantine ruins and admire grand Neoclassical buildings.
Things to do in Argo-Saronic Islands
Aegina is beautiful, but it’s the Temple of Aphaea that sets it apart from other islands in the archipelago. The ancient temple dates to the 5th century and commands spectacular views over the Saronic Gulf. Aegina is famous for pistachios, which can be purchased from stalls in Egina Town. The town is a great base to explore the island and features a picturesque harbour framed by grand Neoclassical buildings.
Paleohora cascades down a wildflower-strewn hillside and recalls the archipelago’s ancient past. The Byzantine village is on the island of Aegina and features dozens of ruined houses and churches. Narrow paths wind between the structures and make it easy to explore Paleohora.
Walking is the only way to get around car-free Ydhra. The island feels frozen in time and features a lively town centre crisscrossed with narrow stone streets. Stroll around the bustling harbour and admire beautifully restored 18th-century mansions. Trails wind through the mountainous interior and take you through sun-dappled pine forests and past ancient monasteries. Stop to feed friendly donkeys grazing in the fields.
Spetses has an upmarket vibe and is popular with well-heeled holidaymakers. Boat tours are the best way to visit the island’s picturesque beaches, which range from sandy bays to pebble-strewn coves. Ayii Anaryiri is the most popular beach and features a water sports centre where you can rent kayaks, catamarans and pedalboats.
Getting around Argo-Saronic Islands
Local buses are a fast and easy way to get around most of the Argo-Saronic Islands, except Ýdhra, which is traffic-free. Regular ferries run between Athens and most Argo-Saronic Islands in under one hour. You’ll need to take a hydrofoil boat or catamaran to access Ýdhra and Spétses.