SIGHTSEEING

Aegina offers a great “sample palette” of Greece

The ancient temple of the Aphaia. The church and monestary of Saint Nectarios. A hillside with dozens of old churches as remains of a medieval village Palaiochora. A hidden valley with huge and thousand year old olive trees. Hike up Mount Oros to get a spectacular 360 degree view of the Saronic. A trip to the island of Moni to swim in a crystal clear bay and be surrounded by wildlife. Stroll through the small streets of Aegina Town, or enjoy a wonderful lunch or dinner at the picturesque fishing village of Perdika.

Scroll further down for more elaborate descriptions.

Day trips: You can also hop on a ferry or water taxi to visit some of the amazing nearby islands (e.g. Agistri, Poros, Hydra)

Aegina Town

Aegina Town is the capital and main port of the island. It has beautiful neoclassical buildings. The small and narrow back streets offer a wide variety of shops. You will find picturesque tavernas and cafes at the boulevard.

Harbor

Enjoy the liveliness… all year round, Aegina is visited by seafaring travelers from all over the world.

Shopping

Stroll through the small streets and visit the fish market or boutique shops.

Boulevard

There are dozens of places to hang out for ice creams, pastries, cocktails, lunch of dinner.

Moni island

Moni island is a 10-minute caique ride (water taxi) from Perdika (9 euro round trip). These local boats will typically wait until they’re full before departing. You can also take an all-day boat cruise that typically stops at other beaches in Aegina and Agistri.

Snorkling

Swim or snorkel through the crystal clear waters in the secluded bay.

Animal life

Moni island is home to many peacocks and deers, who freely wander around.

Beach club

You can rent a sun lounger and enjoy ice cold beverages, wines and beers.

Perdika

Don’t forget to visit Perdika. It is a little gem on Aegina. An old fishing village, with dozens of tavernas to enjoy amazing Greek food while overlooking the Saronic Gulf.

Fresh seafood

Perdika is know for fresh seafood. Be invited into the kitchen to select and order your “catch of the day”.

Moni island

From Perdika harbor you can take a 10-minute caique (water taxi) ride to go for a swim. When returning, have lunch or dinner at some of the best tavernas in Aegina.

Perdika at night

Visit Perdika at night and enjoy a cocktail at one of the many bars.

Ancient olive trees

Walk amongst some of the largest and oldest olive trees on the earth in this “hidden” valley of the Giants. You can follow the paths that descend from the surrounding mountain villages (Pachiorachi, Kapotides, Marathonas). <add link>

Note: In the middle of the summer, be prepared for the heat and bring water!

Mount Oros

This hike should not be underestimated… and is best done before or after summer. You can park your car here <link> and follow the road for about 1 km, after which you will find trail signs up the mountain. Once on the top, you will be rewarded by some of the most spectacular 360 degrees views.

Note: In the middle of the summer you will be fully exposed to the sun, and this can become dangerous if not in good health and not well prepared.

Temple of Aphaia

The temple was built between 500-490 BC on top of the previous temple, which suffered damages after a fire in 510 BC. The Aegineans therefore decided to tear it down- while keeping the gate and the large altar – and rebuild a new one that would display the works of the “Aeginean” School of sculpture. The new temple took its final form in 500 BC and is an excellent sample of archaic architecture.

Agios Nektarios | Monastery & church

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.