Aegina Island is one of the nearest islands to Athens and for this reason, is often overlooked as a place to visit. But it's a wonderful place to come to escape the traffic and bustle of Athens or Pireaus, either for a day out or for much longer.
I visited for a day back in 1988, to get some fresh air, after a stressful visit to Athens to set up student exchanges. And I have been going back almost every year since. Always a great welcome and a feeling of coming home.
Arriving into the port of
Aegina is like entering another world. The setting is spectaular, with the mountains of Methana and the Peloponnese providing a wonderful backing for the Saronic Gulf. And the port is pretty, with neo-classical buildings showing the island's history as the first capital of modern Greece.
There are many cafenions and tavernas along the harbour front. Our favourite is Pelaisos, not far from the fish market. It's run now by Vangelis, who took over from his father Costas, recently. Costas still cooks a great dish of fish! They are friendly and helpful, and the food is simple, well cooked and reasonable in price.
Swimming is best in Marathonas, which has two great sandy beaches, very safe for children and by June, the water is warm. Our favourite taverna there is Tassos, right on the beach and the best vegetables and octopus on the island!
There are many places to see, probably the most dramatic the Temple of Aphaia, which is one of the best preserved ancient temples in Greece.
Getting to Aegina is really easy, with ferries and dolphins departing all day from Pireaus. Ferries are cheaper and more pleasant, and take only an hour and 10-15 minutes, just enough time for a relaxing coffee, ouzo or beer.
Enjoy!
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