SARONIC ISLANDS
The Saronic Islands are the tranquil, artistic heart of the Aegean, offering a mosaic of charming harbors, rich history, and easy-going island life just a short ferry ride from Athens.
This region captures the quintessential Greek island experience. It’s a land of cosmopolitan energy on Hydra, pistachio groves on Aegina, and pine-scented serenity on Poros.
Most Popular Attractions
Aegina Island – History, Art & Beaches:
Temple of Aphaia: A remarkably well-preserved, majestic Doric temple with stunning sea views, forming an “ancient triangle” with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.
Agios Nektarios Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in Greece, a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to the island’s patron saint.
Paleochora: The “Mystras of Aegina,” a ruined medieval town with dozens of small, fascinating Byzantine churches.
Aegina Town Harbor: The picturesque main port, famous for its colorful neoclassical buildings, lively fish market, and countless little boats.
Kolona Hill Archaeological Site: Ruins of an ancient temple to Apollo near the harbor, with a small but rich museum.
Marathonas Beach: A popular, sandy beach with shallow, clear waters, perfect for families.
Moni Islet: A small, beautiful island opposite Perdika, easily reached by water taxi, known for its pristine beaches and friendly wild deer and peacocks.
Perdika Village: A quaint fishing village with traditional seaside tavernas and charming views.
Christos Kapralos Museum: Showcasing the works of one of Greece’s most important 20th-century sculptors.
Pistachio Groves: Explore the fields where the famous Aegina Pistachios (P.D.O.) are grown and taste them at a local shop.
Hydra Island – Cosmopolitan Charm & Artistic Heritage:
Hydra Town Harbor: A protected, striking crescent harbor surrounded by grand stone mansions, instantly recognizable and famously car-free.
Historical Archive Museum of Hydra: Houses significant relics, manuscripts, and nautical artifacts from the island’s rich maritime history.
Sunset Walk to the Cannons: A classic island experience, walking along the coastal path past the historic defense cannons for a spectacular view.
The Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion: A beautifully restored historical mansion offering a glimpse into the island’s past, now a branch of the National Historical Museum.
Miaoulis Monument: Statue dedicated to Admiral Andreas Miaoulis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence, overlooking the harbor.
Kaminia Village: A small, quiet port west of Hydra Town, a perfect spot for swimming and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Mount Eros Hike: A challenging hike to the island’s highest point, offering unparalleled panoramic views.
Vlychos Beach: A popular, pebbled beach accessible by foot or water taxi, known for its clear waters and relaxed vibe.
Agios Nikolaos Beach: A secluded, beautiful beach accessible primarily by boat, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Poros Island – Pine Forests & Tranquil Beauty:
Poros Town Clock Tower: The island’s iconic landmark, perched high on the hill above the harbor, offering beautiful views.
Archaeological Museum of Poros: Features finds from the sanctuary of Poseidon in Kalaureia and other ancient sites on the island.
Ruins of the Sanctuary of Poseidon: Located in Kalaureia, the ancient religious center of the island, a peaceful and historic site.
Lemon Forest: A densely-planted valley of lemon and orange trees on the Peloponnese mainland (easily reached by a small ferry) known for its fragrant scent and beautiful setting.
Bourtzi Castle: A small, picturesque Venetian-style fortress built on an islet at the entrance of Poros harbor.
Love Bay (Neorio): A small, enchanting cove known for its clear turquoise waters and surrounding pine trees.
Askeli Beach: A long, popular, organized beach with water sports and seaside tavernas.
Activities & Experiences
Hike to Profitis Ilias Monastery (Hydra): Tackle the most popular hike on Hydra, ascending the slopes of Mount Eros for incredible views of the harbor and the surrounding sea.
Explore Aegina’s Ancient History: Visit the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Aphaia and the ruins of the Temple of Apollo (Kolona) near Aegina Town.
Wander the Car-Free Streets of Hydra Town: Get lost in the narrow, cobblestone backstreets, discovering beautiful neoclassical mansions, small art galleries, and hidden squares, experiencing the island’s tranquil pace.
Climb Poros’ Clock Tower: Ascend the hill in Poros Town to the iconic Clock Tower for stunning, panoramic sunset views over the harbor and the Peloponnese mainland (Galatas).
Take a Boat Trip to Moni Island (from Aegina): Catch a short water taxi to the uninhabited Moni Island for pristine beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and seeing the free-roaming peacocks and deer.
Visit a Pistachio Farm and Taste the Delicacies (Aegina): Tour a local pistachio orchard or shop, as Aegina is famed for producing some of the world’s best pistachios. Sample pistachio ice cream, paste, and sweets.
Visit the Zoodochos Pigi Monastery (Poros): Explore this beautiful 18th-century monastery in the pine forest, which played a historical role in the Greek War of Independence, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Go Horse Riding on Hydra: Since cars are banned, experience the island on horseback, following the coastal path from the harbor to beautiful villages like Kamini.
Go Sea Kayaking or SUP (Poros): Rent a sea kayak or stand-up paddleboard in Poros to explore the coastline and hidden coves, such as the heart-shaped Eros Island.
Discover Hydra’s Maritime History: Visit the Historical Archive Museum and the Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion in Hydra Town to learn about the island’s powerful naval and commercial past.
Enjoy a Beach Day at Love Bay (Poros): Relax at one of Poros’ most picturesque beaches, famous for its turquoise water and the shade provided by surrounding pine trees.
Find Leonard Cohen’s House (Hydra): Seek out the home of the legendary singer-songwriter, who lived on the island for many years and helped cement its reputation as an artistic haven.
Local Tips & Transport
Ferry is the Link: The islands are primarily accessed by ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens. High-speed hydrofoils (Flying Dolphins/Cats) are the fastest, while conventional car ferries are slower but cheaper, essential if you plan to bring a car to Aegina or Poros.
Hydra: The Car-Free Gem
No Cars or Scooters: Hydra is famously car-free. All transport is by foot, donkey/mule, or sea taxi. Be prepared to walk everywhere, and bring comfortable shoes for the cobblestones and hills.
Water Taxis: These are the essential local transport, connecting Hydra Town to the various beaches and villages along the coast. It’s the fastest and most scenic way to cover distance.
Aegina: The More Accessible Island
Bus Network: Aegina has a public bus network that connects Aegina Town (the main port) with the Temple of Aphaia, the Monastery of St. Nektarios, and the popular beaches and villages (like Agia Marina and Perdika).
Taxis/Car/Scooter Rental: Taxis are available, and you can rent a car or scooter to explore the island at your own pace, especially if you want to reach the highest points or more remote areas.
Poros: Compact and Walkable
Foot and Bike: Poros Town is compact and highly walkable. You can easily rent bicycles or e-bikes to explore the length of the island (Kalaureia) and its many beaches.
Free Municipal Bus & Water Taxis: A free municipal bus runs a circular route around Poros Town. Water taxis are widely used for the short, 5-minute crossing to the mainland village of Galatas.
The Rhythm of Island Life: The Saronic Islands offer a more relaxed, authentic pace compared to the Cyclades. They are perfect for walking, sitting in harbourside cafes for hours, and enjoying the simple beauty of Greece.
Hydra’s Artistic Heritage: Hydra has long been a magnet for artists and writers, most famously Leonard Cohen. Seek out the small art studios, galleries, and boutique shops that reflect this bohemian past.
Aegina’s Pistachios (Fistiki): Don’t leave Aegina without trying the local pistachios, which have a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. The annual Aegina Fistiki Fest in September is a major cultural event celebrating the harvest.
The Greek Coffee Ritual: Embrace the slow-paced tradition of having a Greek coffee (a strong, unfiltered brew). Order a Sketo (plain), Metrio (medium sugar), or Glyko (sweet), and enjoy a long session of people-watching at the harbor kafenia (cafes).
Hidden Gems:
Paleochora (Aegina): The abandoned medieval capital of Aegina, a “Mystras of the Saronic Gulf.” Wander through the ruins and the dozens of tiny churches nestled into the hillside.
Kamini and Vlychos (Hydra): Take the coastal walk west from Hydra Town to the peaceful, picturesque fishing villages of Kamini and Vlychos for quieter swimming spots and charming seaside tavernas.
Metropolitan Church of Saint George (Poros): Located in Poros Town, this church features stunning frescoes by the famous 20th-century Greek painter, Constantine Parthenis.
Rafalia’s Pharmacy (Hydra): A historic, beautiful 19th-century pharmacy in Hydra Town that looks like a museum, still operating today.
Dining Times: Just like on the mainland, dinner is eaten late in Greece, usually starting around 9:00 PM. Lunch is typically between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Dining early may mean you’re in a restaurant alone.
Top Restaurants
Xeri Elia Douskos [$20-$35] – Hydra. A bustling, century-old taverna in a square with a large plane tree, famous for its simple, satisfying traditional Greek staples and grilled meats.
Nontas Fish Restaurant [$25-$45] – Aegina (Perdika). A long-running family-run tavern in the picturesque fishing village of Perdika, known for its excellent grilled fish and classic Greek dishes.
Apagio Family Taverna [$25-$40] – Poros (Punta). Located in the fishermen’s neighborhood, this taverna offers a traditional Greek menu with daily fresh fish, stews, and a lovely view of the channel.
Karavolos [$20-$35] – Poros Town. A well-known traditional taverna located a few meters from the coastal road, famous with locals and tourists alike for its quality food and wine.
Kodylenia’s Taverna [$25-$40] – Hydra (Kamini). A classic, authentic seaside taverna overlooking Kamini harbor, famous for its fresh fish, seafood, and quintessential Greek island atmosphere.
Taverna Grill Oasis [$15-$30] – Poros Town. An old favorite since the mid-1960s with a harborside location, known for its traditional Greek recipes, grilled meat, and wide variety of appetizers.
Ouzeri o Skotadis [$25-$45] – Aegina Town. One of the top fish taverns on Aegina, offering super-fresh local fish and seafood, with a lovely waterfront setting on the port.
Kryfo Limani (Secret Port) [$20-$35] – Hydra Town. A tiny, much-appreciated spot by locals, tucked away up from the port in a lovely garden setting, known for tasty Greek home-cooking.
White Cat Restaurant (Aspros Gatos) [$25-$45] – Poros (Micro Neorio). A traditional taverna with a long history since 1909, known for ouzo meze, grilled octopus, and a romantic evening view of the town.
Petra (Edesmatopolio Petras) [$20-$35] – Aegina Town. Offers traditional Greek dishes and meze inside a long-standing mansion with a view of the Saronic Gulf.
Lefteraki’s Taverna [$20-$35] – Hydra (Mandraki Bay). Located in the quiet cove of Mandraki Bay, offering low-key, authentic, and well-executed simple Greek food right by the sea.
Dimitris Family Butcher Shop Taverna [$25-$40] – Poros Town. A traditional taverna near the church of Ayios Yeorgios, known for its excellent grilled meats and chops, and popular with a Greek crowd.
Psinesai Grill House [$15-$30] – Hydra Town. A traditional Greek restaurant near the port specializing in meat and fish cooked over charcoal, such as souvlaki and grilled squid, with low prices.
Tholos [$20-$35] – Aegina (near Agia Marina). Nestled in the pine forest with wonderful sea views, this is a go-to taverna for islanders, serving authentic Greek village fare.
Vatzoulias [$20-$35] – Aegina Town. A long-time local favorite for expertly prepared taverna classics, offering a pleasant garden oasis for summer dining.
To Gitonikon (Christina & Manoli’s) [$20-$35] – Hydra Town. An established, multi-generational spot in a beautiful cobbled path, known for traditional Greek fare like fresh swordfish.
Meze Meze [$20-$35] – Poros Harbor. Located on the quieter end of the harbor, this spot focuses entirely on meze (small plates) and often features live bouzouki music.
Aeginitissa Fish Tavern [$25-$40] – Aegina (Aeginitissa). A long-standing, legendary fish tavern situated by the sea, serving fresh catches in a relaxed environment.
Remetzo [$20-$35] – Aegina (Perdika). Offers generous portions of fresh, well-cooked seafood with an amazing view in a friendly environment.
Kavourina [$20-$35] – Aegina Town. Located near the archaeological site of Kolona, famous for its beautiful sea view, Greek flavors, and family atmosphere.
Mikra Agglia [$25-$45] – Hydra Town. A modern-Greek lifestyle restaurant and bar near the harbor, upscale yet approachable, delivering consistently strong Greek flavors.
Bakalogatos [$20-$35] – Aegina Town. An authentic hangout behind the fish market of Aegina, offering traditional Greek meze and flavors.
Paradisos Tavern [$25-$40] – Poros (near Temple of Poseidon). A traditional tavern surrounded by nature (olive/lemon trees) offering homemade plates and traditional Greek cuisine with a sunset view.
Kappos Etsi [$25-$45] – Aegina Town. Blends traditional Greek ingredients with a modern culinary approach, in a picturesque stone building in the heart of the island.
Téchnē Restaurant & Social [$35-$55] – Hydra (Avlaki Beach). Set in a converted 19th-century boatyard with stunning views, offering upscale yet unfussy modern Mediterranean cuisine, leaning Greek.
Manna [$30-$50] – Hydra Town. Set on a calm pedestrian street, it has a modern bistro vibe with a tight, seasonal menu, offering well-presented Mediterranean dishes.
Apagio (Poros) [$25-$45] – Poros Harbor. Beyond traditional fare, this harborside spot also focuses on postmodern Greek cuisine, using high-quality raw materials.
Il Posto [$25-$40] – Aegina (Kypseli). An authentic Italian restaurant with a beautiful hidden garden setting, serving handmade, freshly cooked Italian dishes like pasta and pizza.
La Palma Beach Bar Restaurant [$25-$45] – Aegina (Marathonas Beach). A beach bar/restaurant offering Mediterranean, Greek, and seafood dishes in a great setting.
Omilos [$45-$80] – Hydra Town. An upscale bistro in a former fuel depot near the port entrance, popular with yacht owners for its high-end Mediterranean cuisine and exquisite sea view with waves crashing below.
Sunset Restaurant [$40-$70] – Hydra Town. Romantically lit with tables along the waterfront, offering sophisticated seafood dishes like ceviche and octopus carpaccio, known for its sunset views.
Veranda Restaurant [$35-$60] – Hydra Town. Located high up with stunning panoramic views, serving a menu rooted in modern Greek flavors with well-executed seafood dishes.
Il Casta [$30-$50] – Hydra Town. Italian-owned restaurant tucked away in a secluded courtyard, serving Neapolitan cuisine with homemade pasta and Italian wines. A great change from Greek food.
Tsagkaris Hydriot Macaroons [$5-$15] – Hydra Town. Not a full restaurant, but an institution for traditional Greek sweets, specializing in the famous local almond macaroons.
Isalos Cafe [$15-$30] – Hydra Town. A favorite spot on the harbor with prime people-watching, serving great coffee, delicious smoothies, light meals, and homemade ice cream.
Kai Kremmidi (And Onion) [$10-$20] – Hydra Town. Located a couple of blocks up from the harbor, this is the best spot for a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal like a traditional gyro pita or lahmacun (Arabic-style mini-pizza).
Venus Pizza [$15-$30] – Aegina Town. Offers authentic Italian crunchy pizzas, tasteful pasta, and fresh salads in a multi-venue setting.
Avli [$15-$30] – Aegina Town. A pleasant, laid-back place in an attractive courtyard, serving breakfast, snacks, and a limited menu of simple Greek dishes, pasta, and salads.
Caprice Restaurant-Bar [$25-$45] – Hydra Town. Located on a beautiful cobbled path behind the port, offering a cuisine that combines genuine Italian recipes with Greek traditional products, known for its handmade thin-dough pizza and fresh pasta.
Mourtzoukos Restaurant [$20-$35] – Poros (Neorio). A simple, good spot near the beach, offering a variety of oven dishes, grilled meats, and fish, often featuring traditional retsina wine.
Lulus Tavern (Kalamara Bros) [$15-$30] – Hydra Town. One of the oldest taverns on the island, offering typical traditional Greek cuisine like ladera (oily dishes) and classic oven-baked meals.
Pirofani [$20-$35] – Hydra (Kamini). A small taverna in the quiet village of Kamini offering a range of eclectic Greek dishes, known for its authentic, local feel.
Four Seasons Hydra [$30-$55] – Hydra (Vlychos). Part of a seaside hotel, this spot is known for its quality Greek and Mediterranean cuisine right by the water.
Restaurant on Vlychos Beach (Marina Vlychos) [$25-$40] – Hydra (Vlychos). A hidden-gem taverna by the waterfront, serving classic Greek dishes and fresh seafood.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Hydronetta Cocktail Bar: Perched on the rocks above the sea on the way to Kamini from Hydra Port, this quintessential Hydra spot offers stylish drinks, a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, and is famous for its legendary sunset views.
Amalour Bar: Found just off the harbor in Hydra Town, this popular bar attracts a lively crowd. It is known for its excellent cocktails and its music selection, which includes funk, soul, Latin, and jazz, often leading to dancing as the night progresses.
Oceanis Rooftop Garden – Cocktail Restaurant: Located on the 3rd floor of a hotel in the center of Poros Town, this rooftop bar provides a stunning vantage point for enjoying refreshing cocktails while watching the sunset and the illuminated night view of the port.
Speak Low Bar: An alternative bar in the heart of Aegina Town, found on the vibrant pedestrian street of P. Irioti. It features a retro, American-bar aesthetic and is known for its skillful mixologists and energetic house, electronic, or rock music.
Inn on the Beach: A lively, all-day seafront spot near Aegina Town, offering picturesque views of the Panagitsa basilica across the water, perfect for sunset cocktails and chilled vibes.
Spilia Beach Bar – Hydra: Tucked onto a rocky platform just steps from Hydra Town, this popular spot offers drinks and nibbles with an impressive view toward the port. It’s a great spot for a swim and a drink during the day, which transforms into a popular nocturnal haunt.
Joy Cocktail Bar – Night Club: A premier cocktail spot located right on the water in Poros Town, offering refreshing drinks and stunning sea views from its ground floor, transitioning to disco, house, and mainstream beats later in the night.
Ellinikon Seaside: A long-standing music club and bar operating in Aegina Town since 1992. Situated along the T. Chatzi Coast, it is known for its musical tours and is a reliable spot for evening drinks and music.
Windmill Hydra Bar: Offering some of the most breathtaking views, this bar is located near a historic windmill on a hill in Hydra, perfect for chill evenings and cocktails during the golden hour.
TORTUGA ArtCafè Winebar Gallery: A charming spot in Aegina Town, it is a blend of a café, art gallery, and wine bar, offering a unique setting to enjoy local and international wines and drinks.
Fotis All Day Bar: A small seafront bar in Poros, next to the Old Port, with a stylish vibe and a beautiful setting where you can enjoy drinks with a view.
OINOH Social Bar: A centrally located all-day bar in Aegina Town, offering great views of the picturesque port, known for its interesting cocktails and convivial atmosphere.
Cielo Sea Lounge Sports Bar: Situated on the coastal road in the center of Poros, this all-day establishment is open until the early hours, offering a place to relax and enjoy drinks in a central spot.
Flotter Bar: Found while strolling through the picturesque narrow streets of Poros, in the unique location of Agios Georgios, behind the old Dexameni. This bar offers a distinctive and atmospheric setting for drinks.
Crescendo: Located in Megalo Neorio on Poros, this bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a quiet evening drink near the beach.
The Pirate Bar: One of Hydra’s most historic bars, located right on the corner of the main harbor. It’s a go-to spot for cocktails, people-watching, and a lively party atmosphere in summer with loud music and themed parties.
Joy Cocktail Bar – Night Club (Upper Floor): The first floor of this Poros Town venue converts into a dedicated club late at night, with a focus on powerful Greek and international hits, offering a full-on party with breathtaking views over Poros port.
Ellinikon Vintage: A bar and club located in a historic building in the Perdikiotika area of Aegina Town, it provides an energetic environment for dancing and a taste of the island’s more dedicated club scene.
Pueblo Rock Bar: A popular and neat bar in Poros Town known for its special style and friendly atmosphere. It is the ideal place for music lovers, offering a good selection of drinks and rock-focused music by the DJ.
Muzik (Perdika, Aegina): Located in Perdika, this spot acts as a bar and restaurant but is also known as a great nightlife option, suggesting it ramps up the volume and energy later on for dancing.
Kanji Bar: Situated in the Pounta area of Poros, this bar is known for providing a vibrant atmosphere and is a good option for those looking for a late-night venue.
Malibu Bar: A legendary bar in Poros that brings back the golden days of the 80s, known for playing hits from that era in a tropical environment, perfect for a nostalgic dance party.
Crystal Pool Bar: Found in Agia Marina, Aegina, this spot offers a combination of relaxation during the day and a vibrant nightlife scene, likely transforming into a party venue in the evenings, particularly around the pool.
La Madriguera Craft Beer (Aegina): While primarily a craft beer bar located centrally in Aegina Town, its lively atmosphere and popular local following make it a great option for a more casual club-like feel or a pre-party gathering.
Sativa music bar: Found in the heart of Paros, the outside seating of this venue is mentioned as a good spot to observe the nightlife, implying it’s a central location with a vibrant, music-focused atmosphere.