Travel to Aegina:
10 Things Not to Miss

Aegina is the largest of the Saronic Gulf islands and is situated in the centre of the archipelago. Its easy access from Athens, along with its proximity to the coasts of the Peloponnese, makes it a particularly popular destination for weekends visitors, both Greek and foreign. It is also an ideal base from which to explore the other islands of the Saronic Gulf.

In ancient times, the port of Aegina was important for trade, while in 1828 and 1829, the island was briefly the seat of government of the newly independent Greek state. Its history is long and rich, and is reflected in its magnificent monuments of classical antiquity, countless Byzantine churches, and elegant neoclassical buildings of the 19th century. Aegina is also internationally renowned for its pistachios and its pottery.

Over the years, the island’s rare natural beauty and idyllic landscapes have inspired a number of Greece’s greatest artists, who have chosen to live there permanently.

1. If you choose one of the itineraries to Aegina, don’t miss the opportunity to take a tour of the pottery workshops in Mesagros. Aegina has been famed since antiquity for the quality of its ceramic ware; its jugs were renowned throughout the ancient world for their unique ability to keep water cool.
2. A trip to the picturesque island of Agistri, just 10 minutes from Aegina.
3. A morning stroll in the port to stock up on fruit and vegetables from the floating waterfront stalls there, which make for a picture closer to Venice than a Greek island.
4. A romantic ride in an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage along the seafront in Aegina Town.
5. A visit to the “House of Kazantzakis”. The permanent residence of the world-renowned Greek author between 1936 and 1944, known as the “Cocoon”, is located in the coastal area of Livadi.
6. The famous Aegina Fistiki Fest, a celebration of the island’s pistachios. Held every September, it is one of Greece’s most important culinary and cultural festivals.
7. Hike or bike? Aegina has a wealth of beautiful mountain and coastal trails for hikers and cyclists. Follow the footpath from Marathonas Beach to the Ancient Olive Grove and then to the village of Pachia Rachi, or cycle along the coastline from Aegina Town to the village of Perdika.

Aegina has some of the loveliest beaches in the Saronic Gulf: some are cosmopolitan, with a range of amenities including water sports, while others are more secluded and unspoiled, ideal for those who prefer to go exploring off the beaten track. Some appeal mainly to young people, others to families. Discover:

• The popular Agia Marina for lovers of water sports, all-day beach parties, and a family atmosphere.
• The exotic Moni Beach, a wonderful stretch of sand for those seeking seclusion and underwater adventures.
• Aeginitissa, a favourite of young people, with tall eucalyptus trees and yoga classes next to the blue-green sea.
• The idyllic Klima Bay, with a sheltered beach of white sand.
• Marathonas Beach, surrounded by lush vegetation, for beach games and multiple food options, making it ideal for families.

You can enjoy them by choosing one of the ferry tickets to Aegina.

The Temple of Aphaia
Built in 490 BC at the top of a pine-covered hill, this iconic temple is a unique work of art. According to legend, the isosceles triangle that it forms with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is charged with a mystic energy. The views across the sea from here extend as far as Sounion and Piraeus.

Kolona Archaeological Site
On a hill next to the port, on the site of one of the most important prehistoric settlements in Greece, is the Acropolis of ancient Aegina. All that remains of the Doric Temple of Apollo that once stood here is a single column, the famous “Colonna”, which for many years was a landmark for Venetian sailors, giving the area its current name.

The Monastery of Saint Nektarios
Built in 1904 near the village of Kontos, this celebrated monastery is one of the most important places of pilgrimage in the Christian world and has one of the largest churches in the Balkans.

Paleochora
Also known as the “Mystras of Aegina”, after the fortified town in the Peloponnese, the old capital of the island stands on a hill that offered the islanders protection from pirate raids. Discover the 38 stone Byzantine chapels that remain of the 365 – one for every day of the year – that once existed here, climbing up to the top of the fortress, which is now dominated by the twin church of Saint George and Saint Demetrius.

The Ancient Olive Grove
With its wild beauty and mysteriously atmospheric landscape, the Ancient Olive Grove in the heart of the mountain region of Aegina never fails to impress. Some of the trees here, in the valley at the foot of Mount Ellanio, are ten metres in circumference and more than 1500 years old!

Mount Ellanio
Aegina’s highest peak, at 532 metres, with the Church of the Prophet Elijah at the top, offers stunning views of the entire island. The climb is worth it to see one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Saronic Gulf.

The Christos Kapralos Museum
An important representative of modernism and Greek 20^th-century art, the sculptor Christos Kapralos set up his studio in the area of ​​Plakakia in 1963. Today, it houses an extraordinary collection of sculptures, ceramics, engravings, and paintings.

Markellos Tower
Built in 1802, this striking red building played an important role in the establishment of the modern Greek state. It was the meeting-place of the committee that governed the country in 1826, and later housed the state treasury. It is now a venue for cultural events.

Moni Island
A unique natural paradise of pine trees, crystal-clear waters and wildlife, just 10 minutes by boat from Perdika harbour. The only inhabitants of the island are deer, peacocks, wild rabbits and miniature horses.

Perdika
This charming Cycladic-style fishing village stands out for its narrow cobbled streets, tiny whitewashed houses, and flower-filled courtyards. Every summer, people flock here to enjoy the famous fish tavernas in its delightful harbour.

If there is one thing not to be missed, it is Aegina’s internationally renowned pistachios, whose taste makes them unique throughout the world. Sample delicious pistachio pate, honey and pistachio preserve, as well as pasteli (candy bars made with honey and pistachios instead of the usual sesame seeds).

A special traditional food of the island is roast lamb or goat with a pistachio crust. Aegina also has excellent seafood and fresh fish. Try octopus with pasta, swordfish in wine, and tiganosoupa (fish soup). Perdika harbour and the municipal fish market are well-known for their seafood delicacies.