Perfect for romantic travelers, history lovers, and those seeking an upscale island experience near Athens. With neoclassical mansions, horse-drawn carriages, pine-fringed beaches, and the heroic legacy of Bouboulina, the island exudes sophistication. A unique destination where cultural identity meets tranquil island living.
Spetses
Experience Spetses, elegance, history, and sea breeze on the noble island of the Saronic Gulf
Spetses is an island of deep history and tradition, natural beauty, grand captain’s mansions, and elegant monuments reminiscent of a past era. At Poseidonion Square, admire the impressive statue of Laskarina Bouboulina and the island’s landmark, the historic Poseidonion Grand Hotel. The island also offers beautiful beaches like Zogeria and Agioi Anargyroi, a refined culinary scene, and vibrant yet elegant nightlife. With no cars in the center and horse-drawn carriages or bicycles as transport, Spetses remains a timeless and charming destination.
Highlights
The Lighthouse
One of the oldest lighthouses in Greece, operational since 1837, located on the far right edge of the Old Port. A scenic walk through pine woods leads to this historic spot, whose light reaches 18 nautical miles.
Beaches
Spetses offers a variety of beaches: Agios Mamas and Agia Marina near the port, Vrellos, Agioi Anargyroi, Zogeria, and Ligoneri a bit further out, all with turquoise waters and lush surroundings.
The Town of Spetses
From Dapia, walk uphill to Kastelli, the old town with grand houses and stunning island views. Continue west through Kounoupitsa, ending at the historic Anargyrios and Korgialenios School.
Stroll Through Dapia
The harbor square, once a fortification, is now a gathering spot with preserved captain’s mansions, like the Bouboulina Mansion, the Mexis Mansion, and the neoclassical school complex.
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IDEAL DESTINATION
Refined elegance steeped in history and Aegean charm.
Local Delights & Must-Try Flavors
Spetses is famous for its refined cuisine and fresh seafood. At traditional seaside tavernas, try the island’s signature dish “Fish a la Spetsiota”, and kakavia fish soup. Meat dishes often feature lamb or goat seasoned with wild savory. Don’t miss the variety of local pies—zucchini, cheese, and more. Before you leave, be sure to taste the Spetses almond sweets, fragrant with cinnamon and clove.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is perfect for enjoying the crystal-clear turquoise waters. In early September, don’t miss the spectacular Armata Festival, a re-enactment of the famous naval battle with fireworks and cultural events. In April, experience the excitement of Spetsathlon, Greece’s largest triathlon event.
How to Get Around Spetses
Transportation Options to/from the Airport
The nearest airport is Athens International Airport. To reach Spetses, you can travel by ferry from the port of Port of Piraeus (approximately 3 hours).
Alternatively, you can access the island by boat from Porto Heli (around 10 minutes) and Ermioni (around 20 minutes).
Public Transport
Cars are not allowed on Spetses. Getting around the island is mainly done on foot, by bicycle, scooter, local buses, or by small boats that operate as sea taxis.
Questions/Answers
Q&A
By ferry from Piraeus (2–3 hours), or by car to Costa, followed by a short water taxi or ferry crossing.
Not in the town center. Transportation is by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage, scooter, or local taxi.
Zogeria, Agioi Anargyroi, Vrellos, and Kouzounisi (reachable by boat from the port).
Yes, it’s a nearby destination popular for short, romantic getaways.
Absolutely! The Armata Festival in September is the highlight, with parades, naval reenactments, and fireworks.
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