The best Greek islands accessible from Athens

Athens is full of wonders – from the Acropolis standing proud above the city to lively neighbourhoods where history meets modern Greek life. But did you know it’s also the gateway to some of Greece’s most beautiful islands?

With ferries and flights connecting the capital to nearby gems, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – mornings exploring ancient ruins and afternoons sipping something cold on a beach. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape, a cultural adventure or the trip of a lifetime, here are the very best Greek islands you can reach from Athens.

The Saronic Gems: Quick & Easy Getaways

These islands are so close you can even do them as a day trip, but they're also great for a longer stay. Perfect if you want that island feeling without long travel times.

Aegina – The Pistachio Paradise

Only 40 minutes away, Aegina is the closest island to Athens and a favourite for both locals and visitors. It’s famous for pistachios – you’ll find them in everything from ice cream to honey-coated snacks and even liqueurs.

Wander through the colourful neoclassical streets of Aegina Town, or head to the fishing village of Perdika, where you can enjoy freshly grilled octopus by the harbour.

History lovers will enjoy the Temple of Aphaia, perched on a hill with stunning sea views, and forming a “sacred triangle” with the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.

Tip: Visit in September during the Pistachio Festival for a lively taste of local culture.

Hydra – The Car-Free Aristocrat

Hydra feels like stepping into another era. With no cars allowed, the only way to get around is by foot, donkey or water taxi. The harbour town is stunning, with 18th-century stone mansions, marble-paved streets and a vibrant artistic vibe.

Hydra has long attracted painters, writers and musicians – Leonard Cohen once lived here, and today you’ll find art galleries and cultural festivals throughout the year. For a dip, head to Vlychos or Kamini Beach, both within walking distance of the port.

Tip: Stay overnight if you can – once the day-trippers leave, Hydra becomes peaceful, romantic, and full of atmosphere.

Spetses – Sea Captains’ Island

Elegant and sophisticated, Spetses is where old-world glamour meets seaside charm. Known for its role in Greece’s naval history, it is dotted with grand mansions, boutique shops and horse-drawn carriages that add to the atmosphere.

The Old Harbour is the place to be in the evening, with excellent seafood restaurants and lively cafés. Beaches like Zogeria and Agia Marina are perfect for swimming and snorkelling in turquoise waters. If you visit in September, don’t miss the Armata Festival, with boat parades and fireworks.

Tip: Rent a bike or scooter to explore the island’s pine-covered trails and secluded coves.

Poros – Vintage Charm

Poros is actually two islands joined by a bridge, offering a mix of lively waterfront life and pine-covered hillsides. Poros Town is perfect for strolling, with its clock tower watching over the harbour and ferries coming and going.

For a beach day, head to Love Bay or Russian Bay – both offer crystal-clear waters and relaxed vibes. Poros is also great for boat trips, taking you to tiny coves or across to the Peloponnese.

Tip: Grab a table at a waterfront taverna at sunset – the views are unforgettable.

Agistri – Natural & Budget-Friendly

Tiny but beautiful, Agistri is perfect if you want unspoilt nature and clear seas without the crowds. The island is covered in pine forests and has some of the clearest waters in the Saronic Gulf.

Skala is the main village, with sandy beaches and tavernas serving fresh fish. For something quieter, walk through the forest to Chalikiada Beach, a pebbly cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Water sports fans can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling.

Tip: Combine a trip to Agistri with nearby Aegina – ferries run regularly between the two.

Cycladic Charms & Beyond: Worth the Journey

These islands take longer to reach but are iconic and unforgettable – ideal if you’ve got a little more time.

Santorini – The Showstopper

Famous around the world, Santorini is the picture-postcard island with whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and dramatic cliffs. The views over the volcanic caldera are simply breathtaking.

Visit Oia for that world-famous sunset, wander Fira’s lively streets, or explore the quieter villages of Pyrgos and Megalochori. The island also has unique beaches, like the Red Beach with its rust-coloured cliffs and the black sands of Perissa.

Tip: Don’t miss a boat trip to the volcanic hot springs, followed by a glass of local Assyrtiko wine.

Mykonos – Glamour & Nightlife

Mykonos is chic, lively and bursting with energy. Famous for its nightlife, it’s also home to Little Venice, where colourful houses sit right on the water, and iconic windmills overlooking the sea.

Spend your days at beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise for the party scene, or head to Agios Sostis and Panormos for something quieter. You can also hop across to the nearby island of Delos, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.

Tip: Visit in late spring or early autumn for all the beauty without the peak-season crowds.

Syros – The Undiscovered Queen

Syros offers a more authentic, less touristy Greek experience. Ermoupoli, the capital, is full of neoclassical buildings, marble squares, and even a mini opera house. The island is also known for its cultural festivals and artistic vibe.

Beaches here are more low-key but beautiful, from family-friendly Galissas to the hidden cove of Grammata. Syros also has a thriving food scene, with sweet treats like loukoumia (Greek Turkish delight) and halvadopita (nougat pie).

Tip: Visit Ano Syros, a hillside medieval settlement with winding alleys and incredible views over the Aegean.

Andros – The Green Heart of the Cyclades

Andros is lush and perfect for hiking, with over 170 beaches to choose from. Walk the Menites Springs trail, visit waterfalls or explore the Venetian fortress in Chora.

Beaches range from sandy family favourites to wild, windswept coves perfect for surfing. The island also has fascinating museums, including one dedicated to its olive-growing heritage.

Tip: Take the ferry from Rafina – it’s quicker than Piraeus and makes Andros an easy weekend getaway.

Tinos – Scenic & Spiritual

Tinos is both spiritual and beautiful. Pilgrims visit the Panagia Evangelistria Church, but the island is also home to over 40 marble villages, traditional dovecotes, and some truly spectacular hiking trails.

The beaches here are varied – some wide and sandy, others secluded and peaceful. The island also has a thriving art scene, with marble carving being a long-standing tradition.

Tip: Explore Pyrgos village, home to marble workshops and a wonderful open-air museum feel.

Kea (Tzia) & Kythnos – Hidden Beauties

Just an hour from Lavrio port, Kea (also called Tzia) is cosmopolitan yet peaceful, with excellent walking trails, charming villages, and underwater shipwrecks that attract divers.

Kythnos is quieter still, known for its cobbled lanes, flower-filled courtyards, and thermal springs. It’s modest, hospitable, and full of hidden charm – perfect for slowing down.

Tip: Both islands are ideal if you’ve already seen the famous names and want somewhere more authentic.

Planning Your Perfect Escape

As you can see, Athens is so much more than a city break. With the islands so close, it’s easy to add on a few days of sun, sea and relaxation – or go all out and plan a multi-island hopping holiday.

I’ll take care of all the details – from ferry tickets and flights to hotels and transfers – so you can relax and just enjoy. Whether you want a quick getaway to Aegina, a romantic escape to Hydra or that bucket-list trip to Santorini, I’ll make it happen.