Greece is known for its many islands and beautiful blue waters, with Santorini and Mykonos being two of the most popular and famous islands. However, if you don’t want to travel too far from the capital or want to avoid the crowds, here are 4 other islands that offer just as many activities and as magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea. They are all within a 2 hour journey from Athens, making them perfect destinations for a quick day trip out of the city.
Aegina
Aegina is an island located only about an hour away from Athens. As your ferry approaches Aegina, you’ll first be greeted by the beautiful harbour of Aegina Town, which you can explore by taking a horse carriage tour. You can explore most of the island by walking, but you can hire a taxi at the harbour, and scooters are also available for rental.
Aegina has its own share of historical sites and monuments. In Aegina Town, you find the Tower of Markellos, a magnificent ancient watchtower with Venetian architecture. Within walking distance from the town is the site of Kolona, where you will find the ruins of a Temple of Apollo, which only has a single column still remaining, and the Archaeological Museum, with a great collection of artefacts. One of the island’s most famous sites is the Temple of Aphaia, its grand ruins standing on the top of a hill, from which you’ll get a great view of the island and the surrounding blue waters.
Greece is a huge producer of pistachios, and Aegina alone contributes more than 600 tonnes of it every year, so be sure to try and purchase some pistachio-based products! Along with the nuts, why not have a seafood meal, freshly caught from the waters of the island. Octopus is highly recommended!
Of course, what is an island without beaches? Marathon Beach, Agia Marina Beach, Souvala Beach, just to name a few of Aegina’s beautiful beaches. Each has its own restaurants, shops, and watersports services, allowing you to spend a great day under the sun.
Poros
Poros is located just an hour’s ferry ride away from Piraeus, the port of Athens. Poros is actually composed of two islands, one covered with a lush pine forest, the other an ancient volcano, which is where Poros Town is located. This beautiful harbour has stunning vistas of Neoclassical architecture, and standing above them is the Clocktower of Poros, located on a hill on which you’ll have fantastic views of the island and surrounding sea, especially stunning during sunset.
Poros’ beaches are just as beautiful and stunning. Askeli beach is the most popular one with a long stretch of sand lined with many taverns and bars, perfect for you to grab a quick drink before taking a dip in the sea. For a different beach experience, visit Love Bay, where pine trees reach the edge of the water, and provide some lovely shade. There is also Vagionia Bay, a beach of pebbles and gravel rather than sand, which you view through its crystal clear waters.
Hydra
Located around an hour away from Piraeus Port, the island of Hydra is perfect for active travellers with its many hiking trails and activities. No cars or vehicles from outside of the island are allowed here, with the most common form of transport being donkeys and horses. Donkey and horseback rides are available for tourists, and you can even take tours of the island riding on the backs of these strong creatures that have become popular icons of this island.
On this island, you can visit important sites like the Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary is the island’s main cathedral, as well as the bastions of the island, built and installed with cannons to protect the island from the Turkish fleet during the 18th century.
Hydra also has its share of beautiful beaches, including Vlychos Beach, Kaminia Beach and Agios Nikolaos, with the clear waters surrounding the islands making these beaches perfect for swimming, snorkelling and even scuba diving. For thrill seekers, visit Spilia, which has many rocky outcrops, making it a perfect spot for diving.
Andros
The island of Andros is further out than the other islands, and it takes about 2 hours to get there. However, the journey is well worth it as this island is unique for its lush greenery and forests. When you first reach the island, take a stroll around the main town of Chora, and make your way to Goulandris Square, a place with fantastic views of the Mediterranean. Across the waters, you will see the remains of the Lower Castle of Andros, connected to the main island by a stone bridge. If the weather is good, the water is not too choppy, and you’re feeling particularly brave, take a trip across the bridge to explore the ruins of the castle.
From the mainland, you will also spot Tourlitis Lighthouse standing proudly in the middle of the water, considered one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world.
The beaches of Andros are just as beautiful as its greenery, each beach offering a unique experience. If you’re willing to drive, Vitali Beach is one worth visiting. Take a scenic 45 minute ride to this beach, where you’ll be greeted with crystal clear waters. There is also a cliff face along one side of the beach, keeping the waters cool from the shade and giving a great place for you to go diving. For something more easily accessible, you can head over to Golden Sand Beach, where you will be welcomed by sand that almost seems to be shining in contrast to the blue of the waters.
If you’re travelling to Athens in the summer, consider one of these islands for a day trip out of the city. With delicious food, beautiful sights, and gorgeous beaches, these islands are a perfect way to spend a great day under the sun.
