Have you truly experienced the Greek islands? The answer eludes many and with places such as Santorini and Mykonos remaining perennially popular, it’s all too easy to skip some of the lesser-known, more authentic Greek islands.
Enter the Saronic islands. Located part-way between the Greek capital, Athens, and the southern Greek mainland, the Peloponnese, these islands are all under two hours from Athens by ferry and remain somewhat shrouded in obscurity – known only to locals and adventurous travellers seeking a taste of escapism.
Though we’re approaching October, Greece sees an extended summer and it’s still entirely possible – and desirable – to jump into the cooling waters off the coast of the Saronics. These are five of the best Saronic islands to visit; none of them are flashy, nor offer the facilities found at other Greek islands, but that’s all part of their charm. Visit for dinners at authentic tavernas, days spent sunbathing on deserted beaches and for hikes through whispering forests.
Poros
Poros is an ideal weekend getaway from the Greek capital. In just an hour’s sailing time from Athens, find yourself immersed in pine forests and surrounded by beautiful shores. Follow the scents of vegetation along winding pathways towards Love Bay Beach where you’ll be greeted by lapping green waters: this hidden bay is a natural serotonin boost, and the perfect way to kickstart your island adventure. Nearby, you’ll also find the arguably more hidden Russian Bay, or head to the even more secluded still Vayionia Beach on the island’s northern shore; a pristine cove cradled within a lush valley, full of citrus trees. To do so you’ll require either a private car or the convenience of a boat taxi, adding intrigue to the seafaring adventure. After a day spent basking in the sun, the island’s port and charming town beckon. Stop for an Aperol spritz at Oasis Bar, and at Poseidon for an elegant, seafood-heavy, evening meal.
Travel time from Athens: one hour
Best for: beaches, a laidback lifestyle
Spetses
Laid-back and charming, Spetses is the southernmost island on the Saronic Gulf – one where a cosmopolitan atmosphere meets cobbled streets and mansions of neoclassical, Venetian and aristocratic flare. Cycle or rent a scooter and venture to its untouched beaches such as Agia Paraskevi, hugged by a crescent of pine forest, or Paralia Garifalos, with an earthy terrain and sparkling turquoise waters. With just trees to shade you from the sun this is as close to nature as it gets; listen out for the melodic sounds of nature and wildlife. If adventure calls your name, Spetses has an enthusiastic sailing community and, in the port, the one-hundred-year-old Poseidonion Grand Hotel accommodates Athenians on weekend getaways alongside countless luxury yachts. Explore the island by sea before docking for dinner at the finest seafood restaurant on the island, Tarsanas, complemented by a glass or two from their impressive wine list.
Travel time from Athens: one hour and 55 minutes on the Aero Highspeed (other ferries can take up to three hours)
Best for: architecture, sailing, hidden beaches
Hydra
Exclusive, elegant, and unique; Hydra is hip – and so are the people who visit. Hydra has long been one of the most appealing islands in Greece and is the most visited in the Saronics, attracting artists such as Leonard Cohen and John Lennon in the 60s and 70s, with more recent art installations from Jeff Koons. This car-free island is both laid-back and deeply entangled with its traditional roots; if you have an affinity for history, visit The Historical Archive Museum of Hydra where exhibits demonstrate the island’s participation in the Greek War of Independence. Hydra is also rich in religious significance with the resonant tolling of church bells that can be heard from the 300 churches and six monasteries across the island, creating a spiritual ambience for those who listen. After a day of sightseeing, there’s no finer way to unwind than by indulging in a cocktail at the clifftop Sunset Hydra restaurant – the perfect spot for capturing that unforgettable photograph.
Travel time from Athens: one hour and 20 minutes on the Speedcat
Best for: historical Sites, cultural heritage, art
Aegina
Step into the world of the Ancient Greeks on the island of Aegina: the remains of the Temple of Aphaia stand royally atop a hill here, bathed in the Mediterranean sun. Dedicated to Athena, the Greek goddess, this temple was built in 480 BC and 25 of its original 32 Doric columns remain intact and upright. Or, head for the authentic village of Perdika to wander the timeless streets and savour plenty of fresh seafood. Speaking of food, Aegina produces some of the best pistachios in the world, the fistikia aiginis. The pistachio is so important to islanders here that it has its own dedicated festival, the Fistiki Fest organised by traders and producers every September to celebrate the product. In Aegina town, you’ll find an array of bustling cafés, restaurants and tavernas – Avli and Kappos Etsi are great options – and, of course, you must try anything infused with pistachios.
Travel time from Athens: 40 minutes
Best for: pistachios, historical sites
Agistri
A small island located off the coast of Aegina – it’s just a 10-minute ferry ride between the two – Agistri transports visitors back to simpler times. Embodying the essence of slow living, local cuisine and traditional settlements, immerse yourself in this sought-after Greek lifestyle in the small town of Limenaria, adorned with charming stone houses with the aroma of freshly-baked pastries and bread filling the air. Spend your time beach hopping from the peaceful Dragonera, Mariza, to Aponissos beach (an even smaller island in its own right) and swim in magical natural waters. For a livelier atmosphere head to the main town of Skala, located close to the port. Here, you’ll discover two well-maintained beaches, one with soft sandy shores and the other with pebbles. If you’re a seafood enthusiast, clear your diary for dinner at the Alkyoni Rooms-Restaurant. Perched on the edge of a cliff, it offers unparalleled views of the Argosaronic Sea and is a must-visit.
Travel time from Athens: 55 minutes
Best for: natural beauty, authenticity
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