Aegina
A perfect day trip from Athens — the harbour town, the Temple of Aphaea and a swim at Marathonas beach.
Aegina is the nearest significant island to Athens — just 40 minutes by hydrofoil from Piraeus. Its capital was briefly the first capital of modern Greece (1828-29). The Temple of Aphaea is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece, forming a 'sacred triangle' with the Parthenon and Sounio. And the pistachios grown here are protected by PDO status and exported across the world. An easy day trip or a peaceful 1-2 night stay.
1-day itinerary for Aegina
Day 1: Aegina Town, Temple & Beach
- 09:30 · Aegina Town
Arrive by ferry from Piraeus (40 min hydrofoil). The harbour is lined with painted fishing boats and pistachio sellers. The Tower of Markellos in the old town is worth a walk. - 10:00 · Temple of Apollo (Kolona)
A single standing column marks the temple of Apollo on a low hill overlooking the harbour. Small but atmospheric site with an excellent museum. - 11:30 · Temple of Aphaea
One of the three temples forming the 'sacred triangle' with the Parthenon and Poseidon at Sounio. 5th century BC, outstandingly preserved, on a pine-covered hilltop with sea views on every side. Unmissable. - 13:30 · Lunch — Agora Fish Market
Aegina's fish market is the best in the Saronic — come at lunchtime when the tavernas serve what the fishermen landed that morning. Try the pistachios afterwards from any harbour stall. - 15:30 · Marathonas Beach
The best beach near the town — sandy, shallow and well-organised. 10-minute drive or bus from the harbour. - 18:30 · Aegina — Departure
Ferry back to Piraeus — frequent departures until late evening.
Top beaches of Aegina
Marathonas Beach
The best beach near Aegina Town — sandy, shallow and calm. 10 minutes from the harbour. Good facilities and the most convenient swim on the island.
- Type
- Fine sand
- Length
- 500 m
- Depth
- Shallow — family-friendly
- Facing
- Southwest-facing — sheltered, calm water
- Facilities
- Good: sunbeds, tavernas, easy access by bus or car from town.
Agia Marina Beach
The largest resort beach on Aegina — long sandy stretch on the east coast, near the Temple of Aphaea. Good for combining sightseeing with swimming. Busier than Marathonas but more extensive.
- Type
- Fine sand
- Length
- 600 m
- Depth
- Shallow — gentle slope
- Facing
- East-facing — sheltered bay
- Facilities
- Fully organised: sunbeds, beach bars, water sports, tavernas. Near the Temple of Aphaea.