A one-day trip to Aegina

How to travel to Aegina?

Aegina Island is one of the Saronic Islands, 28 km (15 nautical miles) from Athens, which takes 40 minutes to get there from Piraeus by a high-speed ship; and 1 hour 15 minutes by another ferry.

Because of its proximity to Athens, the island is busy, especially in summer.
Therefore, book your ferry ticket well in advance!
I recommend arriving at the port at least 1,5 hours before departure to arrange everything related to the journey.
Ferry timetables can change due to windy or stormy weather; ferry companies may delete the scheduled journeys.
So, double-check it before departure!

Sailing to the island

Sailing to Aegina is highly enjoyable, surrounded by an endless turquoise sea sparkling in shades of blue. The lonely but lovely tiny islands are queuing proudly amongst the blue-green waves. Hungry seagulls accompany our ship. The luckiest passengers can spot dolphins near the ferry.

Aegina is a perfect place to visit, even if you spend just a one-day getaway on this fabulous island, full of myths, secrets of the past, and amazing beaches.

The Church of Saint Nicolas welcomes us when our ship reaches the port.

My first impression was this is a very inspiring and admirable little island.

I wasn’t surprised that the place was the home of many great artists.

The famous writer Nikos Kazantzakis also lived and created unforgettable masterpieces here, including his version of the Odyssey. The house is standing in Livadi, 2 kilometres of Aegina city.

Aegina Town’s colorful neoclassical buildings give a unique vibe to the city.

Aegina is famous for its pistachios considered to be o the highest quality in the world.

Every year in mid-September, when the harvest is completed, Aegina hosts the “Aegina Fistiki Fest” (Fistiki means Pistachio) with local producers in a vintage atmosphere, gastronomy events, traditional music, and local dance groups.

The local shops offer fresh, delicious pistachios and several top-quality Greek handmade products. Refresh yourself in a great restaurant or cafe with a perfect iced coffee and try the local specialties and mouthwatering sweets.

The Tower of Makrellos

By a short walk from the port of Aegina town, near the centre, you can reach The Tower of Makrellos.

According to tradition, the tower was built around 1802 by Spyros Makrellos, a member of the Greek Parliament and one of Aegina’s leaders during the Greek War of Independence (1821-1829).

However, because the tower’s architectural style has a Venetian influence, it might have been erected during the second occupation of Aegina in the 17th century.
In 1826 and 1827, the tower served as a state building for government meetings.
During the time of Ioannis Kapodistrias, Aegina was the first capital city of modern Greece. The tower became the residence of the Governor, Kapodistrias.

The temple of Aphaia

The Doric-style Temple of Aphaia is a part of the sacred triangle of ancient times. The other two components are The Parthenon on the Acropolis and The Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. Checking the mentioned saint buildings on the map, those form an isosceles triangle. Isn’t it magical? One thing is sure. All these holy places have particular energies.

Where to stay in Aegina?

If you travel to Aegina for a holiday, I recommend an excellent place to stay.

Vrachokipos has a brilliant location for a romantic holiday or a family vacation. The environment is relaxing.

Book this accommodation or choose another one according to your needs in Aegina by Booking. The price range is wide. Every traveller finds the perfect spot for an impeccable holiday.

+1 excursion tip from Aegina for the fans of history and art:

Combine your holiday with another inspiring Saronic island, Hydra! Visit the historical sites of Hydra Town!