The islands of the Saronic Gulf and several from the Cyclades are just a breath away from Athens. By taking a ferry from the ports of Piraeus, Lavrio, or Rafina, you leave behind the chaos of the city and within a few hours, you can immerse yourself in clean air. Beaches, quaint taverns, natural landscapes, and historic sites beckon you to explore.
10 Nearby Islands to Athens
These islands, whether in the Saronic Gulf or the Cyclades, and let’s not forget Evia, are each worth a detailed visit. Let’s take a closer look:
1. Aegina
Situated in the Saronic Gulf, Aegina is lively and close enough to Athens to attract many visitors, even just for the weekend. It hosts several beautiful settlements to stay in such as the town itself, Vathy, Souvala, Agia Marina, Perdika, and Vagia.
Aegina boasts lovely beaches like Agia Marina and Marathona, as well as attractions such as the Temple of Aphaia and the Archaeological Museum of Aegina. Souvala is known for its therapeutic hot springs, and the nightlife here is vibrant.
Ferries depart daily from Piraeus to Aegina, with numerous schedules throughout the day, taking from 40 minutes to an hour and ten minutes. It’s one of the most budget-friendly islands close to Athens.
Recommended Accommodations in Aegina:
2. Agistri
Just west of Aegina, Agistri is a verdant island covered in pine trees that draws visitors during the summer months. It offers numerous accommodation options and is also a popular spot for free camping.
Agistri features two ports, one in Skala and the other in Megalochori (the island’s capital). Booking a holiday here promises relaxation, tranquility, and the enjoyment of pristine landscapes.
Ferries run daily from Piraeus to either of Agistri’s ports, often stopping first at Aegina. The journey lasts between 55 minutes to an hour and a half.
Recommended Accommodations in Agistri:
- (€€) Dionysos Hotel
- (€) Agistri Apartments
- (€) Akrogiali
- 👉 Find hotel deals in Agistri
3. Salamina
Also known as Kulouri, Salamina is the largest island in the Saronic Gulf. Located to the north, it is washed by the Gulf of Eleusis and is exceptionally close to mainland Greece.
The island hosts significant historical sites, which are well worth exploring, and also offers some beautiful beaches such as Kakí Vigla, Kolones, Satirli, and Psili Ammos.
To get to Salamina, you’ll need to catch a ferry from Perama, with continuous service throughout the day, and the trip only takes about 15 minutes.
Recommended Accommodations in Salamina:
4. Poros
Poros, known for its cosmopolitan flair, is a premier destination for a quick getaway from Athens. Located in the Saronic Gulf, directly opposite Galatas and east of Methana, it attracts boat owners and visitors alike.
The island’s manageable size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with areas like the harbor, Kiani Akti, and Love Bay ideal for accommodations.
Recommended Accommodations in Poros:
- (€€) Poros Mood
- (€€) Dionysos Hotel
- (€) 7 Brothers Hotel
- 👉 Find hotel deals in Poros
5. Hydra
Hydra is one of the most famous islands of the Saronic Gulf, renowned for its rich history, including its significant contribution to the Greek Revolution of 1821.
The island boasts over 300 churches and offers a picturesque setting with no cars—only sea taxis, fishing boats, and donkeys.
The main settlement, also named Hydra, is where most visitors choose to stay. A visit to Hydra is like stepping back in time, offering tranquil and relaxing moments.
Recommended Accommodations in Hydra:
- (€€) Delfini Hotel
- (€€) Achilleas Pension
- (€) Tramontana
- 👉 Find hotel deals in Hydra
6. Spetses
Like Hydra, Spetses played a significant role in the Greek War of Independence and remains a charming destination.
Upon arriving at Dapia port, you’re greeted by Bouboulina’s Square, the statue of Bouboulina, and the iconic Poseidonion Hotel.
Vehicles are banned here, making walking and sea transport the norm. Some beautiful beaches include Agia Paraskevi and Vrellos.
Spetses is a bit pricey, so it’s wise to book accommodations early. Ferry times from Piraeus average 2-3 hours, with a stop at Hydra.
Recommended Accommodations in Spetses:
- (€€) Oltremare Inn
- (€€) 7 Islands
- (€) Bay’s
- 👉 Find hotel deals in Spetses
7. Kea (Tzia)
Kea, or Tzia, is the closest Cycladic island to Athens, which has made it a cosmopolitan destination. Its capital, Ioulida, is charming, and ferries dock at the port of Korissia.
The island boasts other noteworthy settlements and stunning beaches like Otzias and Koundouros. Be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Kea.
Only an hour by ferry from Lavrio, with at least four daily sailings, Kea offers both convenience and beauty, though accommodation should be booked ahead.
Recommended Accommodations in Kea:
- (€€) Kea Village
- (€) Serie
- (€) Karthea Hotel
- 👉 Find hotel deals in Kea
8. Andros
The second largest island in the Cyclades, Andros is renowned for its maritime prowess dating back to the 18th century and retains its traditional character despite its popularity. The main town, Chora, and the Tourlitis Lighthouse are must-sees.
Popular settlements for visitors include Chora, Batsi, and Gavrio. Beaches like Grias Pidima and Chrisi Ammos are breathtaking. Ferries from Rafina reach Gavrio in just 2 hours.
Recommended Accommodations in Andros:
9. Kythnos
Southeast of Tzia, Kythnos is famed for its extensive coastline and approximately 92 beaches. Ferries arrive at Merichas port, with the capital Chora only 8 km away. Accommodation prices vary widely, so early booking is advisable.
Don’t miss the thermal springs at Loutra and the famous Kolona beach. Kythnos is accessible by ferry from both Lavrio and Piraeus, with shorter travel times from Lavrio.
Recommended Accommodations in Kythnos:
10. Evia
Often overlooked, Evia is Greece’s second-largest island after Crete and offers numerous accommodation options. It’s unique because you can drive there from Athens, but ferries also run to Marmari from Rafina.
Marmari and the neighboring Karystos are excellent choices for summer vacations. For beach enthusiasts, the eastern coastal areas like Agia Anna and Kymi offer superb options.
Recommended Accommodations in Evia:
- Marmari: (€) Marmari Bay Hotel
- Agia Anna: (€) Attic Apartments
- Karistos: (€) Zefis Villas
