The islands of the Saronic Gulf and the nearby Argolic Gulf are the closest to Athens. They are Athenians' favourite weekend escape and, for visitors, an easy day trip. Their atmosphere differs from the Cyclades: pastel neoclassical houses, pine woods and elegant harbours.
The islands
| Island | From Piraeus | Character | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salamis | 15 minutes from Perama | Almost an Athens suburb | Sites of the 480 BC battle, Faneromeni monastery |
| Aegina | 40-75 minutes | Lively island famous for pistachios | Temple of Aphaia, Paleochora, the town |
| Agistri | about 1 hour | Small, pine woods and clear sea | Dragonera and Chalikiada beaches |
| Poros | 1-2 hours | Separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow channel | Hillside town, clock tower, Galatas |
| Hydra | about 1.5-2 hours | Car-free, captains' mansions and donkeys | The harbour, historic houses, trails |
| Spetses | about 2-2.5 hours | Pine woods, villas, sailing | Bouboulina's house, Dapia, the Armata in September |
Getting there
Ferries and hydrofoils leave Piraeus for all the islands, frequently in summer. Many agencies sell a one-day cruise calling at Aegina, Poros and Hydra. Poros and Spetses can also be reached from the Peloponnese, from Galatas and Kosta respectively, by short crossings.
See also Athens and all the islands.