Ideal for quick weekend getaways, these islands near Athens will whisk you away to an entirely different setting.
Fancy hopping over to a nearby island from Athens to savor the sea breeze and the magic of nature? Plan a short getaway to the following islands of the Argosaronic and the Cycladesto discover their authentic characterwithout the summer crowds. Spring is the ideal time for leisurely strolls through picturesque villages, hikes along flower-filled trails, and the first swims of the season on quiet beaches.
Tzia
TheTziaalso known asKea is the island next door, a whirlwind getaway in the Cyclades to feel the Aegean breeze. A getaway at this time of year to the Cycladic island closest to Attica (just one hour by ferry from Lavrio) is just the thing to enjoy your strolls in amphitheatrically built Ioulida, one of the most beautiful Choras of the Cyclades, visit Ancient Karthea, and explore the stone-paved trails that traverse the entire island. Exploring the islands trails is enchanting, as following them you pass through oak forests and come across traditional stone-built springs and picturesque chapels, ending in small coves and on wonderful beaches perfect for spring dips.
Andros
If you love the sea but also want picturesque villages and walks in nature, to breathe in salty air along with blooming flowers, then Andros is your island. Its just two hours from the port of Rafina and has everything you need to enjoy a spring escape. An aristocratic Chora with splendid captains mansions, Venetian castles, old monasteries, waterfalls, caves, hiking trails, and golden beaches for the first dips of the season. On this distinctive Cycladic island, lush vegetation and abundant waters coexist harmoniously with the dry Cycladic landscape. If you like hiking, youll be thrilled by the many ancient footpaths that crisscross almost the entire length and breadth of the island. Dont forget to stop in Menites, a village in the heart of the island with many springs, and to visit the wonderful Pythara waterfalls near Apoikia.
Aegina
TheAeginais one of the most classic and beloved choices for express getaways. With a romantic atmosphere that transports you to another era, picturesque fishing villages, important sights, archaeological monuments, and a pine-covered interior ideal for hiking and strolls, the second-largest island of the Argosaronic offers plenty of variety. Strolls along the harborfront promenade with stops for ouzo meze and pistachio ice cream, excursions into the pine-covered interior toward Agia Marina, walks in Palaiochora, the islands medieval capital, a visit to the Temple of Aphaia (the view from this spot is mesmerizing), and relaxing over coffee and food in the traditional fishing village of Perdika will fill your itinerary.
Poros
If youre looking for destinations for an express escape from Athens, to enjoy romantic strolls and swims on turquoise beaches and coves with pines down to the sea, then Poros is one of the best choices. The small island of the Argosaronichas a charm of bygone eras. Poros essentially consists of two small islands, Sfairia and Kalavria, separated by a very narrow channel just after the Naval Base. Stroll along the harbor and the picturesque island lanes and make your way up to the historic Clock Tower to enjoy the view of the channel that separates the island from the opposite Peloponnese coast. If the weather permits, take your first swims of the year at Askeli, Monastiri, Russian Bayor at Love Bay.
Hydra
A stones throw from Athens, the stately island of the Argosaronic is an ideal destination for romantic strolls with a scent of History. In springHydra is a true feast for the eyes. Bursting with color and scent, it invites you to discover its cosmopolitan aura, walk its cobbled alleys, admire the captains houses and well-preserved mansions with austere, clean lines, and wander its blossoming trails. The walk along the seafront path that links the harbor with Kamini and Vlychos, with views of the sea, will remain unforgettable. On warm spring days, dive from the rocks at Hydroneta, beneath the famous cannons. If you find yourself on Hydra at Easter, youll have the chance to witness one of Greeces most beautiful and picturesque religious customs: the Epitaphios procession in the Kamini neighborhood, in the sea.
Spetses
Carriages, captains mansions, pine-fringed beaches with turquoise waters, a cosmopolitan air, and interesting events blend uniquely on Spetses, the small Argosaronic island with a big history. The island of aromas, as the Venetians called it, lies just two hours from Piraeus (by hydrofoil) and 10 minutes from the little harbor of Kosta in Argolida. A romantic carriage ride from Dapia to the Old Harbor is a classic choice on Spetses, where cars are prohibited. If youre the sporty type, you can cycle around the island or walk the trails that lead inland. Panoramic views await at the chapel of Prophet Elias on the highest peak of Spetses. When the weather warms and youre ready for the first swims, note the "back" beaches of the island, Agioi Anargyroi, Agia Paraskevi, and Zogeria, or Agia Marina and Kaiki if you want something closer to town.
