If you’re looking for a romantic destination in Greece, Aegina island is definitely worth considering. Aegina is a small island in the Saronic Gulf, just a short ferry ride away from Athens. This island is known for its charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches, and stunning sunsets.
Below you will find 2 plans for a long island getaway, various ideas on what you can do on this wonderful island and short day itineraries to visit nearby islands and the Methana peninsula.
** Click here for the part 1 of the Aegina island guide
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7 Romantic Days on Aegina Island
Aegina is a beautiful island with plenty of activities to keep you busy for a week. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit outside of peak season (mid-June to mid-September) when many Athenians flock to the island. Here’s a sample itinerary for a week in Aegina:
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation Arrive on the island and settle into your accommodation. Spend the day exploring the town of Aegina, wandering through the narrow streets and admiring the beautiful neoclassical architecture. In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant overlooking the sea.
Day 2: Beach Day Visit one of the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Marathonas or Agia Marina. Relax on the sand, swim in the clear blue waters, and enjoy a beachside lunch or snack.
Day 3: Temple of Aphaia Take a trip to the Temple of Aphaia, an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Aphaia. The temple is located on a hill overlooking the sea, and offers breathtaking views. You can also enjoy a romantic picnic in the pine forest surrounding the temple.
Day 4: Boat Tour Take a boat tour around the island, exploring hidden coves and swimming in secluded bays. Many boat tours also offer a stop at the nearby island of Moni, which has a beautiful beach and great snorkeling.
Day 5: Horseback Riding Go horseback riding through the countryside and along the beach. Several stables on the island offer guided tours that cater to all levels of experience.
Day 6: Monastery of Saint Nectarios Visit the Monastery of Saint Nectarios, a beautiful Orthodox monastery surrounded by gardens. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and admire the stunning architecture of the monastery.
Day 7: Departure Spend your final day on the island relaxing and soaking up the sun. Take a final stroll through the town of Aegina before catching your ferry back to Athens.
This island is a great choice for a romantic getaway. With its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and charming villages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to avoid peak season if you want to avoid the crowds!
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Romantic places to stay on Aegina Island
There are plenty of romantic places to stay on Aegina Island that offer stunning views, luxurious amenities, and a serene atmosphere. Here are a few recommendations:
Aeginitiko Archontiko: This elegant boutique hotel is located in the heart of Aegina Town and offers spacious, beautifully designed rooms and suites. The hotel also features a lovely rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
Danae Hotel: This family-run hotel is located in the picturesque village of Perdika and offers breathtaking views of the sea. The hotel has a garden and terrace, and is within walking distance of several restaurants and cafes.
Aegina Beach Hotel: This beachfront hotel is located in the village of Agia Marina and offers comfortable rooms with sea views. The hotel has a swimming pool, a beach bar, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
Kavos Bay Seafront Hotel: This hotel is located on a secluded beach in the southern part of the island and is surrounded by lush gardens. The hotel offers a variety of accommodations, including villas and suites, and has a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
Ela Mesa Hotel: This hotel is situated in the hills above Aegina Town and offers panoramic views of the island and the sea. The hotel has a swimming pool, a bar, and a restaurant serving homemade Greek dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or a cozy and intimate stay, Aegina Island offers a range of options for a romantic escape.
1 Romantic Month on Aegina Island
Here’s a special program itinerary for a month-long stay on Aegina, including day trips to nearby islands:
Week 1: Exploring Aegina Town
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation – Settle into your accommodation and explore the town of Aegina. Visit the Archaeological Museum and the Folklore Museum.
Day 2: Temple of Aphaia – Visit the ancient temple of Aphaia, located on a hill overlooking the sea. Enjoy a picnic in the surrounding pine forest.
Day 3: Beach Day – Spend the day relaxing on one of Aegina’s beautiful beaches, such as Marathonas or Agia Marina.
Day 4: Agia Nektarios Monastery – Visit the Monastery of Saint Nektarios, a beautiful Orthodox monastery surrounded by gardens.
Day 5: Explore the Town – Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Aegina Town, admiring the neoclassical architecture and stopping in cafes and shops.
Day 6: Boat Tour – Take a boat tour around the island, exploring hidden coves and swimming in secluded bays.
Day 7: Sunset at Temple of Apollo – Visit the Temple of Apollo and enjoy a romantic sunset over the sea.
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Week 2: Aegina Island Exploration
Day 8-14: Rent a scooter or car and explore the Aegina island’s hidden coves and charming villages. Take a trip to the Monastery of Saint Nectarios, the village of Perdika, and the Temple of Aphaia. Enjoy the island’s beaches and spend time swimming and sunbathing.
Day Trip 1: Hydra – Take a day trip to the island of Hydra, known for its picturesque harbor and charming alleyways. Walk along the seafront promenade and visit the historic clock tower.
Week 3: Cultural Immersion
Day 15-21: Attend a Greek language class or a cooking class to learn about traditional Greek cuisine. Visit the Archaeological Museum and the Folklore Museum. Attend a traditional Greek music concert or dance performance.
Day Trip 2: Poros – Take a day trip to the island of Poros, which offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, including a lively seafront promenade and a historic clock tower.
Week 4: Adventure
Day 22-28: Go hiking in the hills and explore the island’s natural beauty. Take a horseback riding tour through the countryside and along the beach. Learn to scuba dive or snorkel and explore the underwater world around the island.
Day Trip 3: Agistri – Take a day trip to the nearby island of Agistri, known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beach or go hiking through the pine forests.
Throughout the month, take time to relax and enjoy the island’s laid-back lifestyle. Enjoy the local food and wine, watch the sunset over the sea, and take in the beauty of Aegina island’s natural surroundings.
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Aegina Island – Long-Term Rental
When it comes to accommodation, consider a long-term rental such as an apartment or villa, which can be more affordable than staying in a hotel. Costs for long-term rentals on Aegina can vary, but expect to pay around €300 to €1,500 per month depending on the size, location, and amenities of the rental. Be sure to factor in additional costs such as utilities and internet when considering long-term rentals on the island.
Here are some recommendations for an ideal location for a long-term stay on Aegina island that is affordable, located on the sea, and provides easy access to other parts of the island:
- Agia Marina – This village is located on the east coast of the island, and offers a beautiful sandy beach, restaurants, cafes, and shops. It is well-connected to other parts of the island by bus, making it easy to explore Aegina without a car.
- Souvala – This small seaside village is located on the north coast of the island, and offers a relaxing atmosphere and easy access to the beach. It is well-connected to other parts of the island by bus, and has several restaurants and shops.
- Perdika – This picturesque fishing village is located on the southern coast of the island, and offers a beautiful harbor, traditional tavernas, and charming streets to explore. It is connected to other parts of the island by bus, and has a small beach for swimming.
Overall, these locations offer affordable long-term rental options, as well as beautiful beaches, restaurants, and easy access to other parts of the island by public transportation. Be sure to check rental listings in these areas to find the best option for your needs and budget.
Day Trips and Nearby Islands
Day trip to Agistri
Embark on a peaceful one-day escape from Aegina to the serene island of Agistri. Immerse yourself in the island’s lush nature with a leisurely hike or bike ride through the pine forests. Bask in the crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches of Aponisos, Dragonera, or Skala.
For an unforgettable experience, join a horseback riding tour through the picturesque landscape, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Day trip to Poros
Embark on a delightful one-day journey from Aegina to the enchanting island of Poros. Upon arrival, head to the town’s highest point, the Clock Tower, for a breathtaking panoramic view. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, admiring the neoclassical architecture and quaint shops. For a revitalizing swim, visit the idyllic Love Bay or Monastery beach, and soak up the sun on their golden sands.
Ferry Schedule and Cost: Direct ferry connections between Aegina and Poros are available, primarily during the summer season. The journey between the two islands typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from €8 to €12, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel. It is advisable to confirm the timetable in advance, as schedules may vary depending on the season. Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during the high season, to ensure availability and preferred departure times.
Day trip to Hydra
Set off on a captivating one-day journey from Aegina to the sophisticated island of Hydra. As you arrive, be charmed by the island’s unique character, as no cars are allowed, and donkeys serve as the main mode of transportation. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, admiring the elegant mansions and historic landmarks.
Visit the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion, a museum that showcases the island’s rich history and culture. Finally, unwind at one of Hydra’s pebble beaches, such as Vlychos or Kaminia, and watch the sun setting on the horizon.
Ferry Schedule and Cost: Direct ferry connections between Aegina and Hydra are available, primarily during the summer season. The journey between the two islands typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from €15 to €25, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel. It is advisable to confirm the timetable in advance, as schedules may vary depending on the season. Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during the high season, to ensure availability and preferred departure times.
Day trip to Spetses
Spetses, an elegant and historical island, is a perfect destination for a day trip from Aegina. The island boasts stunning mansions, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of luxury and culture.
Ferry Schedule and Cost: Direct ferry connections between Aegina and Spetses are available, primarily during the summer season. The journey between the two islands typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from €20 to €35, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel. It is advisable to confirm the timetable in advance, as schedules may vary depending on the season. Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during the high season, to ensure availability and preferred departure times.
Day trip to Methana
Set sail from Aegina to the volcanic peninsula of Methana for a day of adventure and relaxation. Once there, explore the captivating volcanic landscapes and hike to the Great Volcano Crater for a spectacular view.
Afterward, rejuvenate in the healing thermal springs at Vromolimni or Agioi Anargyroi. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic Kameni Chora village, where you can marvel at the ruins of a medieval fortress.
Ferry Schedule and Cost
Ferry connections between Aegina and Methana are not direct; instead, you will need to take a ferry from Aegina to the nearby island of Poros or to the mainland at Piraeus and then continue to Methana. Keep in mind that schedules may vary depending on the season, and it is advisable to confirm the timetable in advance.
- Aegina to Poros: The journey from Aegina to Poros typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from €8 to €12, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel.
- Poros to Methana: From Poros, it’s a short trip to Methana, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Ticket prices usually range from €5 to €8.
Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Aegina back to Piraeus and then catch a ferry to Methana. The journey from Piraeus to Methana takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, with ticket prices varying from €10 to €15.
Remember to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the high season, to ensure availability and preferred departure times.