🌅 What to do in the Saronic Gulf on extra days
Personalized ideas for every type of traveler
The Saronic Gulf is a more intimate and closer Greece, where time slows down among elegant villages, pine-scented islands, and calm waters. If you have one or more extra days, you can explore gems like Hydra, Poros, Aegina, and Spetses, experience authentic moments, and breathe in the discreet beauty of the quieter Aegean.
🧗♂️ For sports enthusiasts and outdoor lovers
The islands of the Saronic Gulf are perfect for those who love walking, rowing, or exploring nature at a leisurely pace.
Hiking along the scenic trails of Hydra and Poros
On foot along ancient mule tracks, pines, and sea: from Hydra Town to the Profitis Elias monastery or along the ridges of Poros with views of the Peloponnese coast.
Kayaking along the coasts of Spetses or Aegina
Rent a kayak or SUP to explore sea caves, cliffs, and secluded coves, especially at Zogeria (Spetses) or Perdika (Aegina).
Cycling on the island of Spetses (car-free!)
A complete tour of the island (about 25 km) on coastal roads and dirt paths, among solitary beaches and pine scents.
🌸 For those seeking tranquility and relaxation
The Saronic Gulf is ideal for those seeking silence, calm seas, and timeless atmospheres, even just a stone's throw from Athens.
Day on a secluded beach (like Agia Marina or Love Bay)
Between Aegina and Poros, you can find quiet bays, accessible on foot or by boat, perfect for reading, swimming, and not thinking about anything.
Leisurely stroll in Hydra Town or Dapia (Spetses)
No traffic or noise: just the sound of mule hooves, white alleys, and small ports from which to watch the sunset.
Wellness treatments and yoga with a sea view
Many boutique hotels offer massages, natural treatments, and open-air yoga classes, often with views of the calm waters of the gulf.
🖼️ For art, history, and culture enthusiasts
Ancient history and neoclassical elegance intertwine on these islands, which have seen merchants, poets, revolutionaries, and artists pass through.
Temple of Aphaia in Aegina
One of the most beautiful Doric temples in Greece, in a panoramic position on the island. Perfect at sunset, with views of Athens and Cape Sounion.
Maritime museums and historic houses in Hydra and Spetses
Small but charming museums, dedicated to naval history, the war of independence, and the ship-owning families of the 19th century.
Hidden churches and monasteries inland
Explore medieval chapels and silent monasteries immersed in greenery, like the Zoodochos Pigi monastery in Poros.
🍷 For those who love food and authentic experiences
The Saronic Gulf has a cuisine rich in influences: fresh fish, almond sweets, PDO pistachios, and flavors of land and sea.
Seaside dinner in Perdika, Spetses, or Hydra Town
Tables by the water, simple and tasty dishes (like grilled octopus, fried calamari, Greek salad, and chilled ouzo).
Tasting pistachios and local products in Aegina
The island is famous for its pistachios: visit farms or artisan shops to also try jams, sweets, and pistachio liqueurs.
Evening stroll among shops and patisseries
In Poros, Spetses, and Hydra, you will find historic patisseries with traditional sweets like amygdalota (almond treats) or loukoumades.
🛥️ For those who want to explore the surroundings
The Saronic Gulf is perfect for short crossings between islands, coastal villages, and lesser-known glimpses of the most authentic Greece.
Mini cruise between Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses
Even in just one day, you can visit multiple islands, each with a distinct identity: sacred and agricultural Aegina, refined Hydra, green Poros, and chic Spetses.
Boat trip to Moni or the islets of Dorousa and Kyra
Moni, near Aegina, is a nature reserve with deer, peacocks, and virgin beaches. Ideal for a day of sea and nature.
Excursion to the mainland: Epidaurus or Nafplio
If you depart from Poros or Spetses, you can easily reach the theater of Epidaurus or the elegant city of Nafplio, one of the most beautiful in mainland Greece.
