Aegina is just an hour away from Athens and awaits you in the center of the Saronic Gulf. You can visit it even for just one day. Archaeological sites, beaches, museums, fresh fish, and above all its famous pistachios guarantee to make your stay on the island unforgettable. Let’s see in detail how you can spend a wonderful one-day trip to the first albeit temporary capital of the Greek state.
The legend of the 365 churches in the unknown castle town of Aegina island
Aegina: Glimpse into history
Begin your exploration of the island’s hidden gems without delay. Within a short ten-minute walk, you’ll arrive at your first destination: the Temple of Apollo. Known as the Column, it is the sole remaining structure after an earthquake and its rich history predates even the construction of the famed Parthenon. The wider archaeological site also houses the Archaeological Museum of Aegina, where you can admire unique vases and sculptures. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the island’s fascinating past.
Before heading to Aegina’s stunning beaches, make a stop at the Tower of Markellos, a Venetian-era structure that now serves as a cultural center for the municipality. Check if there are any interesting exhibitions on display on the ground floor. The island is also home to many historical monuments, such as the Temple of Aphaia, located at the highest point of the island. This temple played a crucial role in defending ancient Athens and is part of an ancient triangle with the Acropolis. The sanctuary was dedicated to the goddess Aphaia, whom Pausanias identified as the Cretan goddess Vritomartis-Diktynna, daughter of Zeus and Karme, in the 2nd century AD.
Aegina Beaches: Time to dive
The island boasts an array of stunning beaches, perfect for indulging in refreshing swims. For a day trip, consider visiting one of the nearby beaches to ensure you’re not too far from the port when it’s time to head back.
Aegina Beaches: Avra Beach
Avra is the beach you will dive in just a few meters away from the coveted port. Its landscape will surely leave you fully excited since in its waters you will find remnants of its ancient harbor. You will find it covered with sand combined with pebbles while its coast is fully organized. Diving overlooking the ships coming and going is fully enjoyable for the whole family.
Aegina Beaches: Kolona Beach
The coast of Kolona extends below the homonymous archaeological site at 500 meters of tangible port. You will find it dressed with fine sand and crystal clear blue waters to swim. There are no amenities along it, but the pine-covered vegetation of the hill generously offers its own natural shading. Don’t forget to bring your water and hat with you.
Aegina Beaches: Plakakia Beach
Plakakia Beach is still a coast close to the port since you will need just 1.5 km and about ten minutes walk to reach it. Its sandy beach is located just after the lighthouse of the homonymous cape. You will find it unorganized with tamarisk trees planted in its environment in which tranquility reigns par excellence.
Food and shopping
After your refreshing swims in the sea, head back to the coastal road to savor delicious fish and seafood at the taverns lining the street. The presence of the municipal fish market ensures that whatever you choose to eat will not only be delectable but also freshly caught.
Aegina, the idyllic island that even renowned writer Nikos Kazantzakis selected as his home, is a must-visit destination that should be on your travel list when visiting Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Aegina is located just one hour away from Athens in the center of the Saronic Gulf. It is easily accessible by ferry from the port of Athens, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from the capital.
The main attractions include the Temple of Apollo (known as the Column), the Archaeological Museum of Aegina, the Tower of Markellos, the Temple of Aphaia, several stunning beaches (Avra, Kolona, and Plakakia), and the charming neoclassical port town. The island is also famous for its pistachio production.
The Temple of Apollo, also known as the Column, is the sole surviving structure from an ancient temple that predates even the construction of the Parthenon. Located a short ten-minute walk from the port, it stands as one of Aegina's most significant archaeological sites and provides insight into the island's rich ancient history.
The best beaches for a day trip are Avra Beach (just meters from the port with organized facilities), Kolona Beach (500 meters away with fine sand and natural pine shade), and Plakakia Beach (1.5 km from the port with a sandy, unorganized shoreline). These beaches are all close to the port, ensuring convenient access for day visitors.
The Temple of Aphaia is located at the highest point of Aegina and was dedicated to the goddess Aphaia. It played a crucial role in defending ancient Athens and is part of an ancient triangle with the Acropolis. According to Pausanias, Aphaia was identified as the Cretan goddess Vritomartis-Diktynna, daughter of Zeus and Karme.
When visiting Aegina's beaches, especially the less developed ones like Kolona and Plakakia, you should bring water and a hat for sun protection. Some beaches like Avra are fully organized with amenities, while others lack facilities, so it's important to plan accordingly.
Aegina is special for its combination of archaeological significance, beautiful beaches, and charming neoclassical architecture. The island is particularly famous for its pistachios, fresh fish, and its role as the first temporary capital of the Greek state. Its proximity to Athens and variety of attractions make it an unforgettable day trip destination.
