One of the three island destination of Athens Day Cruise one-day cruise, is the small island of Poros. Although, some may think that Poros is an underrated island considering the rest of Saronic islands, we know better!

Today we pay Poros a tribute to its beauty and some of its exquisite local products, its lemon sweet spoons.

The origin of the lemon sweet spoons

Poros has a vital connection with lemon trees and its fruit. The reason for that is a great lemon forest, Lemonodasos as Greeks use to call it. This lemon forest is exquisite not only for its products, bt also for the opportunities for great walks within its paths. The lemon forest is consisted by 600 individual properties, separated in gardens. To walk through Lemonodasos will take you about 1 hour. What is more, among the lemon trees, you can also find olive trees, pomegranate trees and cypress trees, creating a beautiful colored canvas.

Lemonodasos used to have 10000 lemon trees, producing about 8 mil. lemons per year, in 1828. Later people of Poros tried to expand its production, adding more trees. Although the lemon forest used to be productive and profitable until 1970, today half of the 25000 lemon trees are abandoned.

Great products from great lemons

Despite its limited production, Lemonodasos still produces great lemons. From these fruit, Poros residents have decided to invest in confectionery. So they started making jams, limoncello, biscuits, condensed lemonades and mixed pastries with lemon and pistachios from Aegina.

But the best confectionery product is by far the lemon sweet spoons. Created by the best, small and aromatic lemons of Lemonodasos, you can taste a this dessert and smell the freshness of the whole lemon forest.

The post What to taste in Poros – Lemon Sweet Spoons appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

Today we are checking the remaining 4 of the 7 worth-visit archaeological museums out of Athens. Are you ready to refresh your knowledge on ancient Greece and its history?

Archaeological Museum of Piraeus

Typically not really out of Athens, you can reach the archaeological of Piraeus with a daily trip in Piraeus and its neighborhoods. The museum is located between the areas of Terpsithea and Pasalimani, and you can combine a visit in the museum and then a lunch in a restaurant of Pasalimani.

Its collection mainly consists of excavations and findings, covering the period from Mycenaen to Roman times. The first version of the museum was founded in 1935, in the in the expropriated area of the ancient theater of Zea. Today, the museum has expanded, as an  extension to the old one.

The museum’s findings underline the importance of Piraeus as a commercial center of eastern Mediterranean and as naval dock of Athenians. Additionally, the museum has a large collection of findings from the cemetary of ancient Piraeus.

Archaeological Museum of Poros

Besides great beaches and an amazing island atmosphere, Poros has a long history too. Don’t miss to visit the archaeological museum of Poros, in the Koryzis Square. The museum is located in a two-floor neoclassical building. The exhibition of the museum covers two rooms, one on the basement and one on the building’s floor. Both rooms include exhibits from all over the territory of Trizinia and some of the area of Ermioni.

The collection also includes excavations of the sanctuary of Poseidon in Calavreia. What is more, you will also see ancient inscriptions and Hellenistic figurines by Saint Constantine at Methana, and objects such as vases and bronze pots from old excavations at Ermioni.

Archaeological Site & Museum of Elefsis

Our next stop is a hidden gem of history and culture. Meet the European Capital of Culture 2021, the city of Elefsina, which hosts the ancient site of Elefsis and its respective museum. During antiquity, the ancient city of Elefsis was of great strategical and religious importance. During the Mycenaean times and beyond, the city developed into a fortified  settlement. At the same time, the cult of Demeter, the deity of nature and cereal crops, began. Finally, the sanctuary of Demeter in Elefsina acquired panhellenic character. It developed to be one of the 5 sacred cities of ancient Greece, and hosted annually the Elefsinia Mysteries.

Walking through the archaeological site of Elefsis, you basically stroll down the ancient sanctuary. You will feel like reviving the ancient rites of Elefsinian Mysteries, o recall the legend of Persephone’s abduction by Hades and her seasonal return from the underworld to be with her mother Demeter. The most important monuments of the site are the Sacred Court, the Lesser & Greater Propylaea, the Ploutoneion and the Callichoron Well. Don’t miss the Telesterion, the large square hall where the mysteric rites were performed by the highest priests.

Last but not least, up to the hill of the archaeological site Elefsis, you will find the respective museum. There, you will see the finds from the excavations of the sanctuary. Discover the findings of its main collection that is exhibited in six thematic rooms and the courtyard. Check the top artifact of the museum, the headless marble statue Demeter.

Archaeological Museum of Megara

Heading now to the western Attica, our next destination is Megara and its local archaeological museum. The archaeological museum of Megara opened its gates in 2000, and is located in the old Mayor Manor, a 19th century building. The exhibition covers 2 floors and 4 hallrooms, and its the last of the 7 worth-visit archaeological museums out of Athens.

The museum features marble and terracotta findings  from the area, dating from 8th century BC to 2nd century AD. On the ground floor you will find mostly marble finds, like monumental sculptures and votive reliefs. There is also a reconstruction drawing of the Nike of Megara, a copy from an 1847 engraving. On the first floor, finds from the ancient cemetery and objects of daily life are displayed. Don’t miss the courtyard area exhibition, with inscriptions, statue bases and architectural members.

The post 7 worth-visit archaeological museums out of Athens (Part 2) appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

Sign up for Athens One day cruise, and they will take you to all the three islands in a day.  

Greek Islands

Greece has over 6000 islands and islets. But the famous ones are only a handful, and they are spread across the country. Some islands have exciting historical or contemporary life. However, many others are habited only by sheepherders and/or monks.

There are nine groups of major islands in Greece. Some bigger islands like Crete and Mykonos have direct flights from large European cities. However, others can be visited by air from Athens. The Saronic islands are close enough for a boat trip from Athens’ popular ferry port Piraeus.

Athens One-Day Cruise

Athens one day cruise departs from the port at Marina Flisvos/Marina Kallitheas. You can get to this point by yourself or sign up for the VIP experience, and they will send a car to pick you up from your hotel. They also provide exciting excursions on the island with multilingual tour guides. You can choose between a walking tour, a swimming tour, a classic tour or a panoramic tour in the islands. If you buy the VIP ticket, one tour is included in the ticket price.

The best thing about a one-day cruise is that you get to see all the three islands in a single day without worrying about how to get from one place to another, food, or other logistical problems. You can get into the ship, relax with some Ouzo and enjoy traditional Greek songs and dances while cruising around the Aegean Sea.

A trip to Poros, Hydra & Aegina is a must-add trip to every European holiday bucket list.

The post How to go to Poros, Hydra & Aegina? appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

Clock Tower

The clock tower is the landmark of the island. It was built in 1927 and is an imposing feature. It is the first thing to see when entering the port of Poros. If you want to reach the top you have to climb a stairway, which can be tricky in the midday heat. However, the steps are partly shaded by huge trees. Furthermore, it is the best place for sunset lovers. You can enjoy the sunset over the calm waters in-between Poros Island and the Peloponnese. In other words, make sure you know how to operate your smart phone’s panoramic photography mode!

Archaeological Museum of Poros

Another thing you can do in Poros is to visit the Archaeological Museum. The museum is a museum located on Koryzis Square in Poros. The museum was built in the 1960s on a plot of land donated by the Koryzis family. The exhibition of the museum covers two rooms, one on the basement and one on the building’s floor and includes exhibits from all over the territory of Trizinia and some of the area of Ermioni. In the museum you can find sculpures, inscriptions and architectural parts from Trizina, Kalavreia and Methana.

Beaches of Poros

Saronic Gulf is very famous for its beaches. Poros is a very beautiful island, and that is because of its beaches. The beaches are extremely beautiful and the waters can easily remind you most of the famous exotic islands in the world. The beaches are a blend of sand and pebbles, easing down to waters of startling clarity. Most of the beaches are taken up by sun loungers and palm sun shades in the summer. These fill up quickly so you need to arrive early in the day. To conclude, The sandy beach of Kanali, Askeli and the beach of Monastiri are undoubtedly the top places you must visit in Poros.

The Monastery of Poros

The Holy Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi is located 4km east of the main city of Poros island. It was founded in 1720 after the Metropolitan of Athens, Iakovos II drank from a nearby spring. which supposedly cured his lithiasis. Furthermore, the monastery was invaluable during the Greek Liberation War in 1821. Finally, it offered financial and spiritual assistance to the freedom fighters who were suffering from the mischiefs of the war.

The post Top things to do in Poros appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

Greece’s capital city is one of the most sought-after tourist spots in Europe.

The city is just a few hours away from eight charming Saronic Islands. These islands have persevered the traditional look and feel of the Greek lifestyle. So, by making Athens your base, you can explore the nearby islands at leisure. Have you never dreamt of visiting an idyllic Greek island? If so, Poros is just a couple of hours away. You can have a short cruise to explore it in less than one day.

Why take a one day cruise to Poros

By taking a day cruise to Poros, you can actually visit three islands, Hydra, Poros and Aegina, in a relaxed atmosphere. You get on the guided Athens Day Cruise inland excursions in all three islands. By the same day, you can cover all the important attractions in a short time, with expert commentary.

The cruise makes a stop at Poros for an hour. That gives you enough time to visit the historical Clock Tower. After that, if you love sand beaches the weather will mostly be by your side, head to the Love Bay. Οne of the most popular spots on the island. Another option would be to visit the historical sites like the Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi or the world-famous Temple of Poseidon.

When choosing a longer holiday

In conclusion, there is just so much to see. If you are staying in Athens for a while, take Athens’ one day cruise as a way to map out the three very beautiful and very close to Athens Saronic islands. This way, you can return to the ones you like the most and spend more time there. A day cruise to Poros from Athens is a great way to cover a lot of ground in a single day.

Tip: Don’t forget to book a VIP experience. This way you give yourself a treat and don’t even have to worry about the transfers.

The post Is there a day trip to Poros from Athens? appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

There is a lot to do when you’re holidaying in Athens, not least of all taking an Athens one day cruise to three of the most beautiful Greek islands in the region, namely Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Day trips from Athens to the islands are a perfectly quick way of discovering more of Greece, especially if you’re an avid history buff with very little time on your hands to explore.

24 hours on Poros

Poros is culturally rich and has many places to visit if you’re a history lover. From its infamous Clock Tower, the Temple of Poseidon, the Holy Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, the Russian Naval Base (declared a historical monument in 1989), and more, there is much to explore and learn.

The Archaeological Museum of Poros

A very interesting must-see on the island is also the Archaeological Museum of Poros. Built in the late 1960s, the museum can be found in Korizi Square, in a restored property that was once the residence of Alexandros Koryzis, Greece’s Prime Minister in 1941.

Many of the exhibits housed at the Museum are there thanks to the tireless work of Christos Fourniades, an archaeological enthusiast who spent many years collecting ancient relics from the region that went on to become the foundation of Museum’s numerous collections.

A wide range of historical finds

The Archaeological Museum of Poros consists of two floors, with exhibitions on both. Many items on display date from the Mycenaean period to Roman times. There are artefacts from all over the Trizina region and some from excavations in Hermione. There are also important displays from the areas Kalavreia and Methana, such as a large anaglyph with a dog representation, various ancient inscriptions with one dating back to 600 BC, a variety of statues including a statuette of Asklipios from Kalavreia, and several tomb steles, among others.

The Museum’s collection also includes Hellenistic figurines from Methana’s Agios Konstatinos, as well as other pieces such as bronze vessels, pottery and more from Hermione. You will find relics from several excavations at the sanctuary of Aphrodite Akraia; from excavations at the nearby Temple of Poseidon which was reportedly built in honour of Theseus, Poseidon’s son, after killing the Minotaur of Crete; and from excavations in Argolida Peloponnese. There are also pieces of old-Christian origin from the wider Trizina area which are considered an important part of the Museum’s collection.

So if you happen to be in Poros for even an hour or two, the Museum is definitely worth a visit!

Enjoy!

The post An overview of the Archaeological Museum of Poros appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

Zoodochos Pigi founded in the early 1700’s. This renowned Monastery is about 4 kilometres east of Poros town, in a gorgeously forested area of this picturesque island.

The foundation of Poros’ Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

Historical records tell us that the Monastery was founded by Archbishop Iacovos the 2^nd . He was reportedly cured of lithiasis after drinking holy water from a nearby spring. Profoundly impacted by this life-saving miracle, the Archbishop proceeded to build the Monastery in the area where the miracle took place.

In 1733 a.d., this religious house was officially recognised as a Monastery under the jurisdiction of the Patriarch of Constantinopolis Paisios the 2^nd. This was further ratified in 1778 a.d. by Patriarch Grigorios the 5^th. The official document, duly sealed, evidencing this ratification is housed inside the Monastery.

A refuge during the 1821 Greek Liberation War

The Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi once served as a refuge for soldiers fighting in Greece’s war for independence. Many of the country’s great heroes arrived in the Monastery to pray and find spiritual solace there.

Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first Governor of an independent Greece, also founded the country’s first orphanage for children of soldiers who had served during the war. You could find  the orphanage within the confines of the Monastery, where 180 orphans reportedly lived.

The first Ecclesiastical School was founded in the Monastery in 1830

The first Ecclesiastical School was established at the Monastery by Governor Kapodistrias and had 15 students. Over time, the Monastery went on to draw many people of faith seeking spiritual comfort and solace in prayer. This included several monks who visited and took refuge here.

What you will find at the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

The main church of the Monastery is a basilica comprised of a dome and tower (belfry). The tombs of war heroes Manolis Tombazis and Nikolaos Apostolis are kept aside the churches vestibule. The church also houses a beautiful 5-meter-high iconostasis. The iconostasis have been crafted in Asia Minor. Moreover, other exquisite religious icons can be found inside the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi.

There is a silver oil lamp in front of the icon of the Panagia that is on the right of the iconostasis. According to locals, the lamp burns in vigil as thanks for the miracle that the Panagia supposedly performed in 1990. The miracle happened, when after a long drought spell, Mother Mary listened to the prayers of the church’s religious figures for the rain to return.

Attached to the outer south wall of the church there is a sundial. Galaction Galatis created it, a priest-monk who was once a prior of the Monastery.

Poros is an incredible island with plenty of interesting places to visit, with the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi just one of many. So book your Athens day cruise and get exploring!

The post The History of Poros’ Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

So, book an Athens one-day cruise and experience some of the best trails that these two gorgeous Greek islands have to offer:

Hydra

From Kamini to Episkopi

Leave Hydra town and head west to Kamini, taking the coastal road. This popular fishing village is where sailors have been coming for some 300 hundred years to fix their boats or store them if need be.  Once you leave Kamini, continue to Vlihos. For the history lovers, visit the church of John the Baptist as well. From Vlihos, keep walking until you cross a 17^th century bridge to Palamida. This charming seaside village is renowned for its beauty. From Palamida, move on to Episkopi, reportedly the site of a Byzantine village. Of course, each hike from village to village can be enjoyed on its own, especially if time is of the essence.

Kiafa and Agios Athanasios

Kiafa is one of the oldest towns in Hydra located high above the island’s port and a great place to explore. From Kiafa, head to the seven windmills situated on the hill of Agios Athanasios. The view here is spectacular!

Zourvas Monastery

Start by taking a water taxi to the steps leading up to the monastery. Although a challenging hike, the panoramic views once you’ve walked the steps to reach the monastery make it well worth the effort. At the top, take some time to take in the scenery, before walking back to Hydra town. As you head back, explore some of the historical sites along the way, such as the Profitou iliou chapel and the St. Nicholaos, St. Matronis and St. Triada monasteries.

Poros

Poros Town to the church of Ag. Anargyroi

Take a walk up through Poros Town, taking in the wonderfully coloured houses along the way, leading to the ruins of an old windmill. From there, walk to the church of Ag. Anargyroi where you will get to experience the breath-taking sweeping views of the island.

Temple of Poseidon

The walk to this 6^th century BC temple is beautiful.  Located on the northern part of Poros, walk from the Sinikismos (once inhabited by refugees from Asia Minor) and follow the road to the Chapel of Our Lady Agia Zoni. As you keep walking, you will encounter the Chapel of the Prophet Elias, and finally you will reach the Temple of Poseidon nearby. This Doric styled temple was once the epicentre for addressing civil and religious matters for many of Greece’s city states. Although now in ruins, one can almost imagine what this sanctuary once was.

As always, be sun conscious! Take bottled water and some snacks with you, and wear sunscreen. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and lose fitting clothing to protect you from the sun. If hiking on Hydra and Poros gets you tired, take a break!

The post Go Hiking on Hydra and Poros appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

1. Soak in the architecture

Hydra is one of those places that you can get lost in and not want to find your way out. Its exquisite architectural charm draws you in. The cobbled lanes and alleyways, the beautiful three and four storeyed stone manors. Thirdly, the brightly coloured shutters, windows and doorways. Take the time to explore this captivating hillside town, it’s well worth exploring.

2. Take in a museum or two

Hydra has a fascinating history, much of which is evidenced in the collections housed by several museums on the island. For instance, Hydra’s Ecclesiastical Museum is in the Church of Assumption. Therefore, is located at the port contains several Byzantine icons, jewellery, manuscripts, and other historical relics. The Historical Archives Museum is located in a beautifully renovated stone mansion and keeps many religious, educational and cultural archives from the early 1700s to 1865.

3. Go on a walking tour

Go on a walking excursion organised by Athens Day Cruise. You will visit a number of the island’s historical landmarks such as the National Merchant Marine Academy established in the 18th century. In addition, the statue of Admiral Miaoulis is located at the entrance of Hydra’s harbour, famed for his role leading Hydra in the fight against the Ottoman Empire at the start of the Greek War of Independence. Furthermore, a traditional patisserie founded in 1930 and which is famous for its delicious macaroons. In conclusion, the family run Rafalia’s Pharmacy which opened its doors in 1890, and is today still regarded as one of the most beautiful pharmacies across the globe.

4. Visit some beaches

You can’t visit Hydra and not explore at least some of its beaches. About 2km west of Hydra town is Vlychos Beach, a lovely pebbled beach that’s perfect to go to if quiet is what you’re after. Near Vlychos village is the charming Kaminia Beach which is popular among families with children. The gorgeous Agios Nikolaos beach, a sheltered sandy beach located in a cove, is within walking distance. Similarly is Spilia, not so much a beach but rather a rocky area with rocks from which people can jump into the dazzling water below.

5. Try the local cuisine

Hydra has a great selection of tavernas serving up traditional Greek dishes that you must try at least once!  From gorgeous fresh fish grilled to perfection, to decadent appetizers like tzatziki. You can taste stuffed peppers or vegetables wrapped in airy, crispy puff pastry and other plates like moussaka, fried calamari, and so much more.

While this list doesn’t contain everything one can do on beautiful Hydra, it should make it easier to decide what to see if your stay on the island is a relatively short one.

The post 5 Things to do on Hydra appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.

It’s also a remarkably beautiful destination comprised of two main parts. The largely forested Kalavria, and Sferia where Poros town is located.

With Athens Day Cruise, you will have one hour to explore this picturesque island. So we’ve put together a list of 4 of the most popular places to visit, giving you the opportunity to discover some of the history that abounds here.

1. The Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi

The monastery was reportedly founded in the early 18^th century by the Athenian Archbishop, Iakovos the Second. It is said that he experienced a life-saving miracle in the area which served as the instigator to construct what eventually became the Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi. The Monastery has served as a refuge for soldiers who fought in the Greek Liberation War in 1821. Moreover, it is also where the first Ecclesiastical School was created in 1830.

2. Poros Clock Tower

As you enter Poros by boat, the first thing you will see is the island’s iconic Clock Tower, built in in 1927. It is situated on the highest part of the island. A hike to this site is well worth the effort for the incredible view that it offers. In conclusion, you don’t want to miss this Instagram worthy spot, with its panoramic sea views!

3. The beaches at Love Bay & Russian Bay

These two beaches pretty much go hand in hand, considering how close they are too each other. Love Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on Poros. Consists of gorgeous pine trees and stunning nature surrounding it, enhancing what is an already stunning location.  Just 1km from Love Bay is the lovely Russian Bay, which has been declared an historical monument because of its rich history and unique architecture. The beach here is one of the most popular for its white sand, sparkling waters and tranquillity.

4. Archaeological Museum of Poros

This museum is certainly one for the history buffs. It houses an extensive collection of historical finds, including, amongst others, Roman and Mycenaean artefacts, geometric amphoras from Troezena, and relics from several excavations at the sanctuary of Aphrodite Akraia, as well as the nearby Temple of Poseidon, said to have been built in honor of Poseidon’s son, Theseus, after he apparently killed the Minotaur of Crete.

As you can tell, there is much to be discovered on Poros. So, book your Athens one day cruise with Athens Day Cruise and experience the island, along with Hydra and Aegina – and build unforgettable holiday memories!

The post Top 4 Places to See on Poros appeared first on Athens Day Cruise.