I didn’t plan to fall in love with Aegina. Honestly, I just needed a quick break from the Athens buzz—something close, easy, and coastal. What I got was a full-on Greek island experience packed into a single day that felt like a mini vacation.

If you’re thinking about a day trip from Athens, here’s how I spent mine in Aegina—and how you can too.

08:00 – Catching the Ferry from Piraeus

I hopped on the early morning Flying Dolphin from Piraeus. It took about 40 minutes and cost less than a fancy coffee in London. The sea was calm, the sun was rising over the Saronic Gulf, and by the time I stepped off the boat, I already felt lighter.

09:00 – Coffee with a View

First stop: coffee, of course. I grabbed a freddo espresso at a little waterfront café, right near the port. Locals were chatting over pastries, fishing boats bobbed in the marina, and cats were already beginning their morning shift (i.e., lounging in the sun and begging for food).

10:00 – Temple of Aphaia

Next, I grabbed a taxi up to the Temple of Aphaia, about 20 minutes away. I wasn’t expecting to be this impressed, but wow. The temple is over 2,500 years old and stands on a hill with stunning views over the Saronic Gulf. If you squint, you can imagine what it must’ve looked like in its prime.

There were only a handful of other visitors, so it felt peaceful.

11:30 – Agios Nektarios Monastery

On the way back down, I stopped at the Monastery of Agios Nektarios. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth visiting for the architecture and the sense of calm that just hangs in the air. It’s one of the most important religious sites in Greece, and the interior is as beautiful as the setting.

13:00 – Beach Break at Marathonas

By early afternoon, the sun was high, and it was time to unwind. I headed to Marathonas Beach, a short ride from the main town. There are a couple of relaxed beach tavernas here where you can grab a sunbed and order cold drinks straight to your lounger. I swam, read a few pages of my book, and forgot what time it was.

14:30 – Lunch by the Sea

Lunch was at a taverna right on the beach: fresh grilled octopus, Greek salad, and of course, some of Aegina’s famous pistachios sprinkled over everything from salads to dessert. I tried a local pistachio liqueur too—definitely worth a sip.

16:00 – Strolling the Harbour + Pistachio Shopping

Back in Aegina Town, I wandered the little shops along the harbor. The pistachio stalls were my favorite—sweet, salty, honey-glazed, raw… I bought way too many and have zero regrets. There’s a small but charming fish market nearby too, and colorful neoclassical buildings everywhere you look.

17:00 – Gelato and Goodbyes

Before catching the ferry back, I treated myself to a scoop of pistachio gelato (yes, again). I sat on a bench, watched the ferries glide in, and let the breeze cool me down. It was hard to believe I was just an hour away from Athens.

18:00 – Back to Athens, Recharged

As I boarded the ferry back to the mainland, I felt something I hadn’t expected: genuinely refreshed. In just one day, Aegina gave me everything I’d hoped for—history, sun, amazing food, and that slow Greek island rhythm that reminds you to just breathe and enjoy the moment.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re in Athens and want a taste of island life without the hassle of long travel, Aegina is the answer. One day is enough to fall in love. Just don’t be surprised if you start planning your next trip before you even leave the port.

Written by a member of our local team