However, a holiday in Athens is more than just a city adventure. Just consider how close it is to the gorgeous Saronic Gulf islands, each of which is distinctively unique in terms of beauty, history, architecture and culture. And none more so than the popular islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina.

One of the best ways to experience these three islands is by embarking on an Athens one-day cruise. You’ll get to spend a few hours exploring each Saronic. You will learn a little bit more about authentic Greek island life, and discover parts of this breath-taking region that only a cruise can offer.

Hydra

Let’s begin with beautiful Hydra, one of the few islands in Greece where cars are not allowed and getting to and from anywhere is a matter of a scooter or donkey ride.  This low-key Greek island gem is renowned for its charming architecture, cobbled lanes and vintage backdrop. It’s also been the stomping ground for famous international and Greek artists, writers, singers and poets since the 1950s. These include the likes of Sophia Loren and Leonard Cohen. Greek artists and writers include George Seferis, Nicos Hantzikyriakos-Ghikas, Panagiotis Tetsis, Nicolaos Engonopoulos, and many others. Hydra remains popular among many of today’s European artists. Most of them have even moved to the island to pursue their art.

Aegina

Aegina is as popular for its archaeological landmarks. It is also known for its selection of beautiful golden beaches and is a weekend favorite for many visiting Athenians. What you may not know however is that the island is also world-renowned for it’s delicious pistachio nuts which have been growing on the island since 1896. In fact, Aegina’s pistachios were even declared a PDO (Protected Designation Origin) product by the EU in 1996. This is a testament to their local authenticity and traditional methods used to produce them.

Poros

Picturesque Poros offers an eclectic mix of historical ruins, interesting museums, lovely beaches, delicious traditional Greek cuisine and beautiful citrus forest. Comprised of two connected pieces of land, the beautifully forested Kalavria and the busy town of Sfairia, Poros has something to offer everyone.

It’s clear that an Athens vacation can be something more than just city exploration.  Combine it with an island-hopping cruise, if only for just a day, and enjoy an unforgettable experience!

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Departing from Athens

As you board the ship, you will be welcomed by a live orchestra playing a mix of traditional Greek music and other global hits. A gorgeous breakfast will be served on-deck, consisting of tasty Greek foods, accompanied by fresh fruit, yoghurt and delicious locally made honey. Once you’ve finished your breakfast, take the time to soak up the sun, and take in the sweeping beauty of the Aegean Sea, as you sail onwards to the islands.

 A variety of exciting activities

There is something to do on all three levels of the Platytera ton Ouranon. This includes taking in some live music, participating in Greek dancing and relaxing in one of the ship’s many salons. In addition, you can shop at the onboard tax-free store which carries a wide selection of renowned Greek and other globally renowned brands, and so much more. Once you’ve experienced everything on offer, indulge in a complimentary lunch buffet. It is comprised of a delicious selection of authentic Greek and Mediterranean food, which you can enjoy with some local wine.

Island-hopping across Hydra, Poros and Aegina

Spending some time on these beautiful islands gives you a very good idea of what Greek island living is all about. With Athens Day Cruise

Hydra, Poros and Aegina each have a multitude of archaeological sites to visit. You can explore museums, architectural sights and natural beauties that are spectacular. If you opt for one of Athens Day Cruise special interest tours of Hydra and Aegina, you’ll get to see as much of what each island offers within the time that the Platytera ton Ouranon is docked. With just a few hours to spare, our guides will make sure that you get the most out of every minute.

So, book your Athens day cruise, and make sure you get to experience the islands because you’ll regret it if you don’t! You’ll be creating holiday memories that will last you a lifetime!

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There are several islands close to Athens and all you need is about a day to explore them. Athens Day Cruise for instance offers a one-day 3-island cruise to Hydra, Poros and Aegina that will offer a fantastic respite from your city adventure.

Still not convinced? Then here are our top 5 reasons why you should go on a one-day cruise from Athens!

1. A glimpse into Greek island life

The nearby islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina need just a few hours to get to by boat.  And when you embark on a one-day three island Athens Day Cruise, you’ll get to island hop these beautiful Greek islands in less than 24 hours, and briefly experience what Greek island living is all about.

2. Making friends with global travelers

As you sail from island to island, you’ll get the opportunity to meet other passengers on board, many of whom come from different parts of the world. Strike up conversation, connect with other people as you sail across the gorgeous Aegean Sea, and who knows what unexpected friendships you could establish!

3. A variety of onboard activities

With Athens Day Cruise, you will enjoy a fantastic selection of fun onboard activities such as tax-free shopping, salon treatments, live Greek music, Greek dancing and much more!  And by joining in the fun, chances are you’ll meet other people with similar interests, making an already exciting trip that much more interesting.

4. No planning required

Holidays can be stressful when you’re trying to put an itinerary together for a destination you don’t know all that well. This isn’t the case with Athens Day Cruise’ 3-island tour. Eliminate all the hassle by joining one of the special interest group excursions on Hydra and Aegina. Led by multilingual guides, they will make sure that you get to explore as much as possible for the time that you are on each island. You can also get some great advice on what to see on Poros.

5. Family friendly

A cruise is a great way to spend some time together as a family, exploring new places, creating unforgettable memories. Athens Day Cruise are an affordable way to discover three incredible Greek islands, with much fun and excitement to be had, both onboard and off.

So, book your cruise, keep your camera handy, make sure you have a bathing suit, comfortable clothes and walking shoes, and enjoy everything the next 24 hours has to offer!

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Here is a list of our top 5 favourite sites where you can either catch a glimpse into the islands past, or take in the beautiful nature of this Saronic gem.

1. Poros Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is the first thing you will see as you dock in Poros’ harbor. This landmark structure is located on the highest part of the island. A walk to the top offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape and sea that’s well worth witnessing. Definitely a photographer’s dream.

2. Love Bay

Love Bay is one of the island’s most gorgeous beaches located about 4 kilometres north-west of Poros town.  It’s no surprise that Love Bay is incredibly popular among locals and travellers, be they families with children or couples. The nature that surrounds it is stunning, and the beaches white sands, small pebbles and crystal waters are absolutely breath-taking. One cannot help but falling in love with this picturesque setting.

3. Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi

Iakovos the Second found this holy monastery. He was an Athenian Archbishop, in the early 18^th century. Having experienced what many say was a life-saving miracle in this region is what instigated the build of what was to become the monastery.  Zoodohos Pigi once served as a refuge for soldiers who fought in the Greek Liberation War in 1821. It is also where the first Ecclesiastical School was established in 1830.

4. The Temple of Poseidon

Poros is the setting of many mythological tales, such as that of Poseidon’s son, Theseus. He was infamous for having killed the Minotaur of Crete and for whom the Temple of Poseidon was built. Built sometime in the 6^th century, this temple once served as a centre where religious and civic matters of several ancient Greek cities were discussed.  Although very little remains of Poseidon’s temple, some of the statues recovered from the site are at the Poros Archaeological Museum.

5. Archaeological Museum of Poros

For lovers of history, this museum is well worth visiting for the collections that is houses. From Mycenaean relics, geometric amphoras from Troezena, Roman artefacts, figurines, and finds from various excavations at the sanctuary of Aphrodite Akraia and the Temple of Poseidon, there is a lot to see and learn about.

While one hour may not be enough time to visit every single place on our list, it’s certainly enough time to pick even one or two that best cater to your interests and explore them to the fullest.

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Just a few hours from Greece’s capital by boat, each Saronic gem offers something by way of rich culture, local traditions, eclectic architecture and laid-back Greek island living.

Athens Day Cruise’ one-day three-island cruise is an ideal way to experience each of the Saronics.

Departing Athens for Hydra

Leaving Athens in the morning, the first stop is Hydra, loved the world over by celebrities, musicians, artists and writers.

Whilst there, why not partake in one of Athens Day Cruise’ walking tours, during which you will get to see a variety of historical sites and learn more about what draws global travellers to this remarkable destination.

Visit places like the National Merchant Marine Academy, a prestigious naval education centre; the statue of Admiral Miaoulis, infamous for his role leading Hydra in the fight against Ottoman Empire; ‘Rafalia’, one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies; and many more.

Sailing onwards to Poros

After Hydra, you will sail to Poros on which you’ll have one hour to enjoy this picturesque destination.

Visit the Clock Tower, one of the island’s most famous landmarks that comes into view as you enter Poros harbour; or Hatzopoulos Municipal Library which houses a permanent exhibition of shells connected to prehistoric times; or to the Archaeological Museum of Poros, where you will find a collection of Greek sculptures and relics. You could also go past the Archaeological Museum of Poros in which you will find a great selection of Greek artefacts and ancient finds dating back thousands of years.

Landing in Aegina

From Poros, you’ll head to Aegina where you will get the chance to go on a guided Athens Day Cruise’ inland excursion or explore the island on your own for about 2 hours.

Discover historical sites like Nektarios monastery and the ruins of the island’s medieval capital city Paleohora. Take in the infamous pistachio groves which produce some of the world’s best pistachios.

Alternatively, you could also participate in Athens Day Cruise’ beach tour, during which you will take a ride across the beautiful Aegean waters surrounding the nearby islands of Agistri or Moni. Weather permitting, you will also get to take a swim in what is without doubt one of the most beautiful areas in the region.

Heading back to Athens

Sailing back to Athens, you’ll hopefully get to witness a gorgeous Aegean sunset, the perfect ending to an incredible day.

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1. An easy-to-carry bag

You don’t want to be travelling with a bag that’s too heavy or too bulky, especially on a cruise that lasts only one day. Keep it light and pack the essentials only. Convenience is what you’re after, rather than breaking your back with heavy gear. You’ll be island hopping after all. A backpack is probably the easiest to carry, just don’t fill it with unnecessary stuff.

2. A camera

This is a definite essential, because how else will you be able to capture the breath-taking scenery of each of the Saronics? Hydra, Aegina and Poros offer something distinctively unique, be it their natural rugged landscape, panoramic sea views, historical sites, or eclectic architecture. There is a myriad of places that you will get to see, so make sure you have your camera handy to take pictures to remember this incredible holiday experience.

3. Beachwear (and accessories)

You’re going to be island hopping and chances are, swimming will be on the agenda (weather permitting). Even if swimming isn’t your thing, you may just want the chance to relax on a beach, soaking up some island sun. So, make sure to pack a bathing suit, and don’t forget a towel, sunglasses, some sunscreen and a hat. Sun protection is key!

4. Suitable clothes and shoes

You’ll be onboard and off. You may go on an Aegina swimming tour or decide to do a Hydra walking tour. You basically want to be prepared for any activity. This means ensuring that you are dressed in suitable clothing (preferably light and airy) and comfortable shoes. And as a precaution, pack an extra set of each for the unexpected mishaps.

5. Local currency

While exploring the islands, you’ll probably want to purchase some snacks or souvenirs, or stop at a local restaurant to try some traditional Greek cuisine, so make sure to bring some local currency with you.

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A swimming excursion

Aegina has a selection of beaches to enjoy and what better way to experience some of the best than with an organised beach tour by Athens Day Cruise.

Aboard a speedboat, you’ll be taken on a quick ride across the beautiful Aegean waters. On the surroundings you can see the nearby islands of Agistri or Moni. Depending on the weather, you will get to enjoy a swim in one of the most beautiful areas in the region.

Both Agistri and Moni possess an exquisite natural landscape overlooking the sea. Both islands allow you to truly immerse yourself in the spectacular beauty that characterises the area. And you may even get to spot some wildlife in the distance as you’re taking your swim.

Only a 12 minutes ride to Agistri and just 7 minutes to Moni, will get you to make the most of your time on this picturesque Athens Day Cruise excursion. Lasting about 1 and half hours, take advantage of the opportunity to relax on a beach bed, on the sandy white beach.

An inland adventure in Aegina on your Athens Day Cruise tour

If a beach outing isn’t what you’re after, then how about a panoramic tour of Aegina. One that will be sure to leave you with some lasting holiday memories.

About 1 hour and 15 minutes in duration, this carefully thought out tour will enable you to experience the inland beauty and tranquillity of the island.

A car will drive you around Aegina, taking in the sites such as the islands infamous pistachio groves which produce some of the best pistachios in the world. Moreover you will be able to chack religious landmarks such as the Nektarios monastery, and also Paleohora, the island’s medieval capital city where only ruins remain today.

After the sightseeing, you will try some of the island’s gastronomy at a traditional taverna. Indulge in some delicious local flavours and savour the taste of delicious Greek food.

It’s worthwhile noting that any Athens Day Cruise tour can be combined with other tours to form a combo-style package. While tickets can be purchased on board, you are also able to contact us directly prior to purchase to discuss the different tour options available.

So pick your tour and have fun!!

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But visiting Athens only isn’t enough, particularly when hopping to one or all of the nearby Saronic islands on a budget is so easy, and doesn’t have to break the bank either.

Island hopping doesn’t have to be an expensive undertaking. Especially with destinations like Hydra, Poros and Aegina that offer  gorgeous architecture, exquisite scenery and a wealth of historical landmarks. All it takes is simply a pair of good walking shoes to enjoy.

So what should you take into consideration when visiting these Saronic Gulf islands on a budget? 

It’s all about comfortable shoes

Walking is a great inexpensive way to discover a place. For somewhere like Hydra, where cars aren’t even permitted, walking is pretty much your only option. Only exception of a water taxi ride here and there. Arriving at the gorgeous port of Hydra, you’ll quickly find out that you can check the majority of sightseeing on foot. Walk the town’s winding cobblestone streets and admire 18^th century stone villas. The unspoiled architecture, several museums and a selection of churches will amaze you. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, there are a number of trails to follow as you leave Hydra town. Take the coastal route to the fishing village of Kamini, or hike up to the highest point of the island, to Profitis Ilias Monastery, both definite must-sees for breath-taking scenery.

Eat local

Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive, just follow the locals. Find out where they eat and indulge in authentic cuisine. In Aegina, you will find a variety of foods to try, from gorgeous fresh fish and shellfish, to mouth-watering meat dishes and locally grown vegetables. During your staying in Aegina, you also have to try the local pistachios. Aegina’s pistachios are considered some of the best in the world. You can also taste the nuts in a variety of gorgeous desserts, including the local pasteli made from honey and pistachios – little nuggets of must-have delicacy!

Get to the beach

Island-hopping in Greece can’t miss swimming in idyllic beaches. In Poros, this means enjoying the crystal clear waters of Love’s Bay, the white sands of Megalo Neorio, the vibrant Askeli beach, or the Monastiri for snorkelling enthusiasts. Just grab a towel and enjoy the bliss of seaside relaxation! If you’re really careful about your spending, there isn’t much need for an umbrella or beach chair. Just remember our beach towel and sunscreen!

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1. Dine with others

Once you’ve boarded Athens Day Cruise’s Platytera ton Ouranon, our spacious 3-deck cruise ship with all the amenities, you will be served a delicious traditional breakfast on-deck, comprising a variety of local tasty foods. This is the perfect opportunity for you to not sit alone! Join a table, meet other guests, and get some conversation going. Who knows what wonderful people you’ll get to meet!

2. Join onboard activities

Departing from Athens, the one-day Athens Day Cruise offers a great selection of fun activities for you to enjoy including live traditional Greek music, Greek dancing, salon treatments, tax-free shopping, and other entertainment options. Sign up for those activities you know you’ll like and meet other like-minded people. It’s easier making conversation with people who share similar interests with you so partake in the fun!

3. Mingle with guests

As you hop between the islands, you’ll definitely get the chance to enjoy some relaxing downtime. Join other passengers for a cocktail on deck, start a conversation and together experience the unique beauty of the Aegean Sea as you sail from island to island. Above all, there couldn’t be a more spectacular setting for creating unforgettable memories or finding unexpected friendships.

4. Take a guided group tour

Travelling through the Saronic Gulf is a journey that offers you a glimpse into some of Greece’s incredible history, culture, gastronomy, and traditional island living. Hydra, Poros and Aegina provide lovers of ancient Greece with a multitude of ancient sites, historical monuments and architectural charisma to see and visit over the course of one day.

So why not join other guests on Athens Day Cruise’ special interest group tours of Hydra and Aegina, which are led by multilingual guides. With limited time on each island, the guides will make sure that you get to discover as much as possible. Touring with a group also makes it easier to meet other people and strike up conversation. Who knows what brilliant friends you might make!

5. Don’t forget to smile

Meeting new people for the first time can sometimes feel a little nerve-wracking, and it’s okay if you’re shy. Just be friendly and be yourself. If you’re approachable, others will naturally be inclined to want to chat. And just think of all the potential new friends you’ll be making with people from all over of the world! Sounds pretty amazing!

A Athens Day Cruise is a wonderful way to meet a wide variety of travellers from across the globe, people – like you – looking to experience as much of Greece as possible! Many a great friendship has been struck on holiday so make the most of your time on-board and who knows who you’ll get to meet!

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There is something about Greece’s capital city that’s sometimes hard to articulate, a pulsating urban energy that’s almost tangible. A visit to one of the world’s oldest cities is more than just an archaeological crusade through history. Among the prominent landmarks reminisce of a 2,500 year history, lie neighbourhoods bustling with edgy galleries, artists, museums, eateries, bars and restaurants. A contemporary scene that blends effortlessly with the antiquities surrounding it.

No trip to Athens is complete unless you’re taking advantage of the city’s close proximity to the gorgeous islands of the Saronic Gulf. Hydra, Aegina and Poros. Each island is just a few hours by boat from Athens’ coastline. They offer a unique glimpse into authentic Greek island life. Definitely a worthy escape from the Athenian urban landscape, if only for a day or two.

Hydra

Beautiful low-key Hydra for instance, is the only island in Greece with no cars, just scooters. This Saronic jewel is famous for its cobbled streets, vintage architecture, donkey transport and a step-back-in-time façade. It’s no wonder why myriad of actors and musicians visit it, including the likes of Sophia Loren and Leonard Cohen.

Aegina

Just an hour from Athens, Aegina is another Saronic gem that’s as famous for its ancient sites and golden beaches. It is also known for pistachio nut treats and fresh local seafood. This laid-back island, the largest of the Saronics, is also a popular weekend retreat for Athenians seeking a short respite from city living.

Poros

In conclusion, Scenic Poros comprises two distinct islands. There is the largely forested Kalavria and the lively town of Sfairia. Ideal for a relaxing one day getaway, Poros has something for everyone to enjoy. Spectacular sandy beaches, delicious local gastronomy, historical ruins and artefacts, or its lush citrus forest. Creating an unforgettable holiday experience means immersing yourself in as much of the adventure that comes with travelling to different destinations.

If you’re in Athens, this definitely means an island-hopping cruise of the idyllic Saronic Gulf islands, even if all you have is just a few days

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