Looking for an Island, available via not too long ferry ride, from Athens, to spend 3 days. Want to relax, meander through village shops, eat yummy food, sip wine, beach, nice sunset. Any suggestions appreciated.
Posted by
France Southwest - Occitanie
4089 posts
Since you can "relax, meander through village shops, eat yummy food, sip wine, beach, nice sunset" on the vast majority of the islands, it all depends on what you mean by "not too long", if it’s 2h or less, that limits your choice to about five islands, depending partly on the time of year and the types of ferries operating during that period.
Ultimately, a difference of an hour or two in the ferry journey shouldn’t be the deciding factor when picking your destination.
Posted by
10326 posts
There are three islands not far from Athens, in fact there is a three island tour that takes a full day that is nice.
https://www.athensdaycruise.gr
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3815 posts
that 3 island tour will just be mostly at sea, with a b rief time walking up and down a harbor ... a real no-no. We can give better suggestions IFyou will tell us exactly when you plan to be in Athens. NOte; if visiting nearby islands, it's usuallly better to tme it for weekdays, because Athenians flood into isles on weekends. And as others sid, important to know what is "not too long" -- 3 hours?
Posted by
NH (USA) aka crazyh
1504 posts
Agree with Janet about the three island tour as it's mostly on a boat and less time on the island(s)
Your best option for a close island is one of the Saronic Islands.
Aegina would be your best choice as it has everything one would want in an island. One of the best preserved temples, abandoned Byzantine Village, seaside villages and nice beaches.
Poros is wonderful with a long waterfront and uphill away from the harbor is classic Cyclades character with white washed house with colorful trim, narrow lanes and views. Has lovely beaches, some historic sites and good choice for tavernas. A bit more upscale than Aegina but not over the top.
Hydra is very pretty but with limited things to do and not famous for it's beaches but does attract jet setters, famous people with lots of money.
More research on these island could help select which one is best for you.
Posted by
10326 posts
While I took the three island tour over 40 years ago, we did spend good time on the islands. Still, I can see you just want one island.