Island Escape, One Hour Away: Day Trips from Piraeus

Slow beaches, seaside lunches, and pine-scented paths—no overnight bag required.

Staying in an apartment in Piraeus puts you in the perfect spot for a quick island fix. Just steps from the port, ferries to Aegina and Agistri run throughout the day, offering a relaxed alternative to the more crowded Cycladic destinations. Here’s your guide to two of the easiest—and most rewarding—day trips from the city.

🏝️ Aegina: Temples, Pistachios & Seaside Strolls

Only 40 minutes from Piraeus, Aegina blends ancient ruins, pistachio groves, and a breezy, lived-in charm. As you disembark, the harbor greets you with neoclassical facades and pistachio stalls. This is the island’s star product—found in everything from ice cream to pesto and liqueur. Don’t miss the pistachio butter, honey-coated nuts, and sweet koulourakia, all made with local varieties. For coffee or a light bite, stop at Tortuga Art Café for its courtyard atmosphere, or Panta Rei for brunch with a view.

After a walk through the shaded streets of the town, head to one of the nearby beaches. Swim at Kolona (just a short walk from town), or take a quick taxi to Marathonas, a sandy beach with sunbeds and tavernas like Babis—a solid local choice for grilled sardines and ouzo.

If you’re in the mood for exploring, visit the Temple of Aphaia, high above the sea in a forested area. Built in the 6th century BC, it’s part of the “sacred triangle” of the Parthenon and Sounion. On the way back, stop at Perdika, a tiny fishing village perfect for a late lunch by the water. Remetzo is a great bet for fresh catch and house wine.

Aegina is a perfect complement to your city break, especially for travelers booking accommodation in Athens who want to mix culture with calm.

🛍️ What to try: Pistachio liqueur, local ceramics, almond sweets
🌊 Where to swim: Kolona (near the port), Marathonas, or Sarpa near Perdika
⛪ Culture stop: Temple of Aphaia – serene, elevated, and often quiet

🌿 Agistri: Small-Scale Paradise

Roughly an hour from Piraeus by express ferry (or 10 minutes from Aegina), Agistri is compact, lush, and easy to explore. Skala and Megalochori are the island’s two main villages, with low-key tavernas, scooter rentals, and a gentle, walkable pace.

To swim, head to Dragonera, a pine-fringed pebble beach popular for its quiet beauty and clear waters. For lunch with a breeze, try Mandraki Taverna in Megalochori or grab a seat at To Agistri, a local favourite near Skala.

One of the island’s most photographed spots is Aponisos Beach, a small rocky islet linked to Agistri by a wooden bridge. The turquoise water is postcard-perfect, and the nearby taverna serves up simple grilled fish and cold beers. The beach is small and fills up quickly—ideal for a few hours rather than a full day. You might even spot swans gliding through the bay, a surprising sight on such a tiny island.

Agistri makes a laid-back escape for those staying in apartments in Athens or Piraeus, especially in the warmer months.

🚲 Tip: Rent a bike or e-bike for a breezy, car-free day
🍽️ Lunch idea: Taverna Aponisos, or seafood in Skala with a sea view
📸 Don’t miss: The bridge to Aponisos and the view from the pine trails above

📍 Getting There

Ferries depart from Piraeus throughout the day. Conventional ferries take about an hour to Aegina; high-speed options are faster but often cost more. Agistri can be reached directly or via a short hop from Aegina.

🎫 Check ferry routes and timetables: sf.gr