This Hidden Island Near Athens Is Greece’s Best-Kept Secret – But Not for Long
Looking for a Greek island escape without the crowds of Santorini or the glitz of Mykonos? Meet Egina (Aegina), the charming island just an hour from Athens that’s finally getting the love it deserves.
With its pistachio groves, ancient temples, and seaside tavernas, Egina is the perfect blend of history, flavor, and laid-back island life – and 2025 might just be the year everyone discovers it.
Why Egina Should Be on Your Radar
While most tourists flock to the Cyclades, savvy travelers are hopping on the ferry from Piraeus to explore Egina, a gem in the Saronic Gulf.
The island offers everything you love about Greece: bright blue seas, golden sunsets, and incredible food – but without the tourist chaos.
Egina is famous for its pistachios, often called the best in the world.
The annual Fistiki Fest in September turns the island into a nutty celebration, with local food, music, and culture taking center stage.
It’s a great excuse to visit, snack your way through the markets, and experience local traditions firsthand.
History, Beaches, and Authentic Charm
Egina punches way above its weight when it comes to history. The Temple of Aphaia, perched high on a hill with sweeping views of the sea, is part of an ancient sacred triangle with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.
There’s also the Monastery of Agios Nektarios, one of the most visited religious sites in Greece.
If you’re craving beach time, you’ll find crystal-clear waters and sandy stretches at Agia Marina, Marathonas, and Perdika.
Rent a bike or hop in a car to explore hidden coves and sleepy villages where time seems to slow down.
Foodies, Rejoice
Fresh seafood, traditional meze, and of course, pistachio everything – Egina is a paradise for food lovers.
Seaside tavernas serve up just-caught octopus, grilled fish, and homemade desserts like pistachio ice cream and baklava.
Don’t miss the central market in Egina Town, where local vendors sell olives, cheeses, honey, and handmade goods.
Pair that with a sunset ouzo on the promenade, and you’ll wonder why this place isn’t on every travel list.
Insider Tips and Hidden Gems
- Take the scenic route: Skip the high-speed ferry and opt for the slower boat from Piraeus. It takes a bit longer, but the views of the Saronic Gulf and nearby islands are stunning.
- Visit Paleochora: Often referred to as the ‘Mystras of Egina,’ this hillside ghost village was once the island’s capital. It’s dotted with abandoned stone houses and over 30 tiny Byzantine churches, many with beautiful frescoes still intact.
- Hike to Profitis Ilias: For spectacular panoramic views, take the hike up to the chapel of Profitis Ilias. It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
- Swim like a local: Instead of heading to the main beaches, seek out Kolona Beach near Egina Town or the crystal-clear waters near Vagia and Portes. These are quieter spots loved by locals.
- Day trip to Moni Island: Just a short boat ride from Perdika, this uninhabited island is a nature reserve where peacocks roam freely. It has pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling.
- Stay in a neoclassical villa: Egina has charming guesthouses and boutique hotels in renovated mansions, offering an authentic and romantic experience.
- Don’t skip dessert: Pistachio spoon sweets (“glyko tou koutaliou”) are a local delicacy. You’ll find them in most pastry shops and markets. They’re the perfect souvenir.
- Rent a scooter: The best way to see the island is on two wheels. With little traffic and scenic roads, it’s a fun and efficient way to discover remote corners and cozy tavernas.
- Support local artisans: Check out the shops in Egina Town for hand-painted ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. Many artists live on the island and sell directly to visitors.
- Come during shoulder season: Late spring and early autumn offer warm weather and fewer crowds, ideal for peaceful exploration.
Whether you’re sipping espresso under a pistachio tree or diving into ancient history, Egina has a way of capturing your heart without trying too hard. It’s not flashy, not famous – just wonderfully real.
And that might be the best part of all.
