The captivating island of Aegina is located in the Argo-Saronic gulf, close to the port of Pireaus on the mainland and is a part of the Saronic Islands. The moon crescent harbor is filled with fishing boats and glamorous yachts. Sparkling waters of the gulf stand as a perfect background for the archaic ruins and quaint villages.
Explorers can have an interesting time in the emerald valleys and the crumbling ruins of an entire village, which was deserted many centuries ago.
The capital town of this island is full of fine neoclassical buildings and narrow alleys. The beautiful and picturesque island has many traditional villages on the mountains or close to the sea.
Port of Aegina
The island boasts perfect beaches, stunning sunsets and a rich cultural heritage, and the villages have kept their authenticity and unspoiled natural beauty in every corner.
A Little Bit of History
Evidences show that the island of Aegina was inhabited from 3500 B.C. and enjoyed economical and social growth between 900 B.C. and 480 B.C.
The island was the first to mint its coin during the 7th century B.C. Athenians attacked the island in 459 B.C. and then it changed hands between the Egyptians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Turks.
The View of Aegina
For a short period this city was the first capital of modern Greece from 1827 – 1829, and during this period the town flourished and many institutions were built.
Aegina Music Festival is held every summer and the feast day of Agios Nektarios, the patron saint of Aegina, is celebrated with dance, music, food and wine.
The port town is popular for its production of colorful pistachios and it was the first producer of pistachio nuts in Greece. The taverns in the fish market offers fresh fish and excellent appetizers.
Temple of Afea in Aegina
Where is Aegina?
- 33.9 miles/ 54.6 km from Athens, Greece
- 200.7 miles/ 323 km from Santorini, Greece
- 297.6 miles/ 479 km from Bodrum, Turkey
- 38.4 miles/ 61.8 km from Glyfada, Greece
- 56.2 miles/ 90.6 km from Athens International Airport, Greece
Things to See
- Agios Nektarios Monastery
- Temple of Afea
- Paleachora
- Christos Kapralos Museum
- Temple of Apollo
- Folklore Museum
Beaches
- Avra Beach
- Panagitsa Beach
- Marathon Beach
Excursions
- Hill of Kolona
- Perdika
- Moni Island
Aegina still retains its Greek qualities and has not become spoiled by mass tourism. It is a real living and working island, and is the perfect destination for the traveler who wants to experience some reality of the country.
The ancient temples, neoclassical buildings and deserted cities whisper echoes of the past, and it can be both a peaceful, quiet place and the hot spot with endless excitement.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
