As part of our team here in Aegina, I often get asked: “Is it worth staying more than a day?” And my answer is always the same—absolutely.

Aegina may be close to Athens, but it offers a completely different pace of life. With a few unhurried days, you get to slip into the island’s rhythm: swimming in quiet coves, exploring ancient sites, and sharing long seaside lunches under the shade of tamarisk trees.

I recently spent three days exploring the island from the eyes of a visitor, and here’s how I made the most of it.

Day 1: Settling Into the Island Pace

Arriving by ferry just before midday, I started with a walk along the port. Aegina Town always feels welcoming—pastel neoclassical buildings, fishing boats unloading their catch, and café tables already filling with locals.

The first order of business: lunch by the sea. Grilled fish, chilled white wine, and the sound of the water just a few metres away. It’s a scene you’ll see again and again on Aegina—and it never gets old.

As the afternoon sun softened, I wandered through the back streets of the town. Local artisan shops, tucked-away bakeries, and families chatting in doorways reminded me how rooted and genuine life here still is.

Day 2: History and Hidden Corners

I dedicated the second day to some of Aegina’s historical treasures. The Temple of Aphaia, dating back to the 6th century BC, sits proudly on a hilltop, surrounded by pine trees and sea views. It’s remarkably well-preserved and often quiet—ideal for soaking in its presence without the crowds.

Not far away is the Monastery of Agios Nektarios, a significant pilgrimage site and one of the largest churches in the Balkans. Its scale is impressive, but the peaceful courtyard and tiny upper chapel were what stayed with me.

Later, I explored Paleochora, the island’s medieval village scattered with centuries-old chapels and ruins. You can walk for an hour without seeing another soul, discovering frescoes behind half-open doors and glimpses of the sea between the trees.

Day 3: Sea, Sun, and Pistachios

The third day was all about slowing down. I headed toward the beaches on the southwestern coast, near Aeginitissa. These are some of the calmest spots on the island—pebbled coves, clear blue waters, and long swims with the occasional sailboat drifting past in the distance.

In the afternoon, I returned to Aegina Town to browse the famous pistachio stalls near the port. Whether you prefer them raw, roasted, or coated in honey, they’re hard to resist—and one of the island’s most beloved products.

I ended the day with a leisurely walk along the harbor promenade, as the sun dipped low and the town took on that golden glow that seems to slow everything down even further.

Why It’s Worth Staying Longer

Aegina has plenty to offer on a quick day trip—but it really opens up when you give it time. With two or three days, there’s room to relax and explore. You can visit ancient temples in the morning, swim in quiet bays by afternoon, and enjoy long, conversation-filled dinners in the evening.

And the best part? It’s all so accessible, yet still feels a world away.

If you’re planning a visit, I truly recommend giving yourself a few full days. The island has a way of rewarding those who linger.

Written by a member of our local team