Athens is amazing, but let’s be honest: in summer, the city can get very hot. The crowds, the traffic and the warm pavements can make you want just one thing: to head for the sea.
Luckily, you don’t have to travel far. From the port of Piraeus, you can easily take a ferry to several islands in the Saronic Gulf. Perfect for a day of cooling off, swimming and relaxing.
Agistri: small but wonderful
Agistri may be small, but it has a true holiday feeling. Think pine forests, crystal-clear blue water and quiet little bays where you’ll want to spread out your towel straight away.
The island is ideal to explore by bike or e-bike. Along the way, you can stop at beaches, small villages and beautiful viewpoints. And the best part? You really feel like you’ve escaped the city for a while.
Aegina: lively and easy to reach
Aegina is one of the best-known islands close to Athens. The ferry ride is quick, and you arrive in a lively harbour filled with terraces, fishing boats and small shops.
The island is famous for its pistachios, so make sure to try some pistachio ice cream or take a bag home with you. You can also visit the Temple of Aphaia or simply enjoy a swim in the sea.
Poros: charming and relaxed
Poros is green, atmospheric and perfect for anyone who wants to take things slow. Wander through the town, climb up to the clock tower for a beautiful view or find a spot by the water.
Also worth knowing: on Poros, you can experience Greek cuisine in a special way during a cooking workshop. It’s a lovely way to combine island life with local flavours.
Hydra: car-free and photogenic
Hydra may be a little more elegant and well-known, but it’s absolutely worth visiting. The island is car-free, which immediately gives it a relaxed atmosphere.
The harbour is beautiful, with stone houses, boats and terraces by the water. You can wander around, drink coffee, swim from the rocks and enjoy the slower pace of island life.
Why an island day is so lovely
It’s exactly the combination of city and island that makes Athens so special. One day you visit the Acropolis and wander through Plaka, the next day you swim in clear blue water and have lunch by the sea.
Especially on hot days, an island trip is ideal. The sea breeze, the water and the slower rhythm help you fully recharge.
Practical tips
Leave early, especially in summer. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat or cap and plenty of water. Also check the ferry times in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
Ferry tickets can be booked online in advance, for example via Ferryhopper or directly through the ferry company. You can also buy tickets at the ticket offices in the port of Piraeus. Prices vary depending on the island, season and type of ferry, so always check this beforehand.
And perhaps the most important tip: don’t plan your day too tightly. On an island, it’s all about taking it easy.
A short escape from Athens
Whether you choose Agistri, Aegina, Poros or Hydra, a day on an island feels like a little holiday within your holiday.
You step onto the ferry, leave the heat of the city behind and before you know it, you’re sitting with your feet in the water.