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Planning a trip to the Saronic Gulf islands

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kcixcy

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The Saronic Gulf is home to a handful of islands, each distinct in character. Aegina, the closest to Athens, charms visitors with its pistachio groves and neoclassical capital; Agistri, the smallest, lures with its crystal-clear waters and untouched serenity; Hydra captivates with its unique no-cars policy and stately mansions; Spetses beckons with its maritime history and elegant atmosphere; while Poros, the greenest, offers a haven of pine forests and quaint villages. When deciding which islands to visit, consider the pace of your trip, your interests, and the ease of travel between them.

For an optimal experience, crafting a well-thought-out island-hopping itinerary is crucial. A suggested route could encompass Aegina for history, Agistri for relaxation, Hydra for picturesque beauty, Spetses for adventure, and Poros for a tranquil farewell. The duration of your stay on each island should be balanced, allowing enough time to explore but also remain flexible for spontaneous discoveries.

These are so accessible to Athens, it's worth considering them. You can visit them as day trips or you can spend the trip island hopping, staying a night or two in each place.

aegina-greece.jpg
 
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This is one of my favorite places to visit. It's a physically beautiful island and has a lovely scene with tavernas all up the coast as you arrive by ferry. It's also filled with little churches and other religious sites. My favorite was visiting the relics of Saint Nektarios.
 
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