Aegina Island Short Break
Aegina Island Ideal Short Break destinations combined with Athens
During our stay in Aegina town we decided to discover some other areas of the Island. We were lucky the weather (October could be a bit iffy) was perfect for driving and exploring. Aegina is a popular destination for visitors from the mainland Greece, especially from Athens, looking for a close by destination for holiday or as we did, a short break ideally combined with a few days in Athens.
Picture from one of our Harbour walk a magnificent view Galileo 3 mast schooner this was the 2nd time we “meet” Galileo, first time anchoted in Paris a few days ago. Read more Galileo by Greek Yachts Charter
Aegina Island in the middle of October
a tranquil time, not too crowded. To get around the island, the bus service is good but limited. Buses from Aegina town, opposite the (north) end of the carparking area in the port. Rent a car, motorcycle or bicycle is available in Aegina Town. We rented a car for a few days. There is also taxi service.
Rent a car
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Perdika a small village
our first stop was a small fishing village once, now serves as a tourist destination with its picturesque harbour with leisure boats mooring along the quay side. From the quayside, 5-6 steps up from the waterfront to the many taverna's, with shaded balcony/terrace with great views.
Perdike is located on the southwest coast, 9-10km from Aegina town. .
Not surprisingly it was quiet during our visit (middle of thr week) in October, still fairly busy during weekends. July and August are very busy. we spent our Perdika break at the cafe with a large Bouganvilla shaded terrace with sea view and Moni Island in the distance.
We tried the recommended speciality Pistachio cake.
Moni Island
From Perdika port in the summer, boats to Moni Island, around 10 minutes crossing. Official nature reserve since 1962, peacocks, deer and wild goats live freely on the Island. You will arrive at the organised sandy beach with a beach taverna. Sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.
Souvala village and port
the Islands 3rd port. The port is more used by landing craft ferries, carrying commercial larger vehicles and lorries.
Less than 20 minutes drive (7-8km) from Aegina town to Souvala, Picturesque harbour, a few fishing boats, and tavernas lined along the waters edge with tables and chairs. Reasonable good sandy beach. Busy and very popular holiday spot in the summer.
Therma
Just outside Souvala village, beach location are the old hot springs of Therma. According to history the spring has been known since ancient times. The long existing building look a bit tired today, We did not visit the springs.
Temple of Aphaia
Located just under 12km east of Aegina town.
This is one of the best preserved Doric temples in Greece.
The present temple dates from around 500 BC. However, worship of the sanctuary dates back to the prehistoric period (13th century BC) and was connected with a female fertility goddess. The temple was built with a unique 2-storey inner colonnade.
In 1811 the temple was excavated by German archaeologists and many well preserved sculpture was uncovered. 17 figures was shipped to Munich where they remain.
Named Aphaia after a minor dauughter goddess of Zeus.
We enjoy a nice break at the popular kiosk opposite the site entrance serving refreshments and a souvenir shop is also available.
The temple is located on a pine-covered hill with a panoramic sea view and a splendid vista down the coast to the resort of Agia Marina. We did not visit the resort, (October most is closed) Agia Marina is also a port (the islands 2nd or 3rd port) with ferry service to/from Piraeus.
Vagias village and a Taverna named Aerides
Vagias, Aegina's best secret
Vagias (Vagia) is a spread out area with summer residence. Families with children appreciate Vagias its tranquillity and relaxed atmosphere. Located on the north side of the island. Aegina town about 12 km.
A small village/hamlet centre where the church is the focal point and the flat area around the church in the village square. Hotel and restaurants located around the square.
We missed the turning the first time. Reversed and tried again, found the small pretty port next to the attractive sandy beach, with sunbeds and umbrellas. Empty!
We parked under the tree shadow and decided to have lunch on the first taverna named Aerides, (only two beach tavernas 2019). Stay in Apartment Adam House located on the beach
Aerides Taverna
Aerides Taverna lunch the best food experience we had on Aegina Island. Aerides taverna's setting, the total tranquil ambiance, only disturbed by the sound of the small waves rolling in, Aris and Petro’s friendliness and their wonderful food made our day.
Aegina Island
just proved to us that if you like to explore and are keen to discover Greek Islands or mainland Greece, choose the low and middle season, not too crowded, temperature perfect, the local people find time to genuinely smile and talk to you.
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