Aegina is a peaceful island with the typical Cycladic white houses with blue domes on the roofs. Aegina has one of the most beautiful active monasteries in Greece, a lovely port with lots of restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, a fish market and of course wonderfully hot beaches and crystal clear waters. Aegina is also known for its pistachios, and pistachio trees can be found all over the island.
Location
Aegina is located in the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea, approximately halfway between the Peloponnese and the Attica Peninsula. Aegina, island, one of the largest in the Saronic group of Greece, about 16 miles (26 km) south-southwest of Piraeus. Precisely because of its proximity to Athens, it is frequently visited by residents and guests of the capital.
Best Beaches:
- Agia Marina Beach
Agia Marina Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Aegina. The long stretch of golden sand attracts tourists who love the warm beaches and crystal clear waters, as well as the lively beach bars. Whether you want to laze around in the sun or indulge in some water sports, Agia Marina Beach has it all.
- Marathonas Beach
This beach offers peace and quiet, away from the crowds. Surrounded by pine trees and crystal clear waters, it is the perfect place for a romantic date or to relax in silence and admire the picturesque landscapes. Marathonas Beach reveals a rich underwater world full of colorful marine life. Scuba diving enthusiasts can dive into the clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish beneath the surface, a truly unique experience.
- Souvala Beach
This sandy beach with shallow waters is perfect for little ones to splash around in. It offers a variety of facilities, including sun loungers, parasols and tavernas serving delicious local dishes. A short walk from Souvala Beach leads to charming traditional villages where visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the island. The beach is a gateway to cultural exploration, offering a well-rounded experience.
- Vagia Beach
Vagia Beach is a hidden gem secluded haven nestled on the northeastern coast of Aegina. Surrounded by lush greenery and featuring crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking lazly relaxation. As you bask in the peaceful ambiance of Vagia Beach, you may spot local fishermen the tranquil scene. The olive groves combined with the roaring waves of the sea add charm to this place.
Aegina Town
Aegina Town is the capital and the main port of the island where small colorful fishing boats are moored. Charming buildings of different bright colors, narrow streets, picturesque cafes, nice squares invite tourists to explore.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Aegina Town:
- Archaeological Museum of Aegina
- Temple of Apollo
- Ekklisia Isodia Theotokou Church
- Christos Kapralos Museum
- Mourtzis Traditional Sweets
- Fish Market.
Temple of Aphaia
The Temple of Aphaia, one of the most beautiful and best preserved in Greece, was built around 500 BCE and is an outstanding example of late archaic architecture. It now stands amidst dense pines on the summit of an old terrace overlooking the Athenian peninsula, a most haunting reminder of the wealth and power of the island.
Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo (or Kolona) is the first monument you see as soon as you reach the port of Aegina and one of the most important sites from an archaeological and historical point of view. The construction of the Temple was completed before the construction of the famous temple of the Parthenon (6th century BC).
Of this former religious and political center of the island, now survives, among other things, a column (height 8m) belonging to the temple of Apollo from which the attraction took its name. They say that the Venetian sailors used the columns of the Temple of Apollo for orientation.
Monastery of the Holy Trinity of Aegina
Saint Nektarios, the patron saint of Aegina, was recognized as a saint in 1961. Until his death in 1920, Saint Nektarios lived in the Holy Trinity Monastery, which he established, and where many nuns continue to reside today. The monastery sits high on a hill, overlooking the more modern Saint Nektarios church at the base of that hill. The panoramic views from Holy Trinity Monastery stretch all the way to the sea.
Holy Church of Saint Nectarios of Aegina
The Monastery of Agios Nektarios in Aegina is one of the largest Monasteries of Greece and one of the largest orthodox churches in the Balkans. Saint Nektarios of Aegina was one of the most revered modern saints of the Greek Orthodox Church, known for his piety, miracles, and deep theological knowledge.
Pistachios in Aegina
Pistachios arrived in Aegina only a hundred years ago, but on the Saronic island they found the perfect environment to take root. The climate and soil have given and given one of the most beloved nuts. Pistachios have already been inscribed on the national list of intangible cultural heritage.
The Aegina Fistiki Fest, which starts on Thursday, includes a series of events such as culinary presentations, exhibitions of local products featuring local pistachios, cultural events, concerts, activities for children. These are events aimed at promoting pistachios and highlighting cultural identity.
