Aegina or Poros: Which Island Should You Visit?
In this post we will compare Aegina to Poros. Both are part of the Saronic Islands, like Hydra and Spetses. The archipelago is pretty close to Athens and the Peloponnese. That’s why we visit every time we want to escape the hassle and bustle of the Greek Capital.
You have nothing to worry about, no matter which one you chose, you’ll have a great time. Though quite different, Aegina and Poros offer splendid beaches, historic architecture, nature and culture. We almost forgot: You will sleep, eat, and drink like a king in both islands!
Accessibility
Aegina is just one hour from Athens, while Poros is about two hours away. That’s why, Aegina is one of the best day trips you can take from Athens. Thus, if you are short on time, go to Aegina, but spend at least one night there.
The best way of reaching both islands is by ferry from Piraeus, the port next to Athens. Metro lines 1 and 3 connect both places in no time. There are also direct trains from Athens airport. Here you’ll find the best ferries at the best prices.
Now, if you don’t like boats, go to Poros with a bus. The journey there takes a bit under 3 hour. It’s a lovely trip next to the sea and across the Peloponnese and a super short ferry ride to the island.
Cities
Aegina’s center is pretty. Its epicenter is Markellos Tower, built by the Venetians in the 17th Century. We love our walks along the wide seaside boulevard admiring the views. The street behind the promenade is pedestrian and takes you to the incredible fish market.
We believe Poros Town is more attractive than Aegina’s. Pastel houses line the town’s streets. There are charming chapels and squares at every corner. Our favorite spot is Sferia Hill, where the Clock Tower is. The Archaeological Museum next to the coast is also worth your time.
Beaches
Beaches in Aegina Town and Poros Town are small and urban, good for a dip and to chill. To experience the best beaches you have to get out of town. We think that Poros has nicer beaches. A huge forest covers most of the island, so beaches tend to be quiet.
In Aegina we always go to Marathonas beach, south of the town. It’s a long sandy beach with two sections, A and B. Marathonas B is better because it’s longer and has just the one tavern.
Our favorite beach in Poros is Vagionia. It’s a deep bay in a protected area with no taverns nor noise. If you like a bit more comfort go to Anasa beach, a beauty pretty close to Poros Town.
Ancient Sites
When it comes to ancient sites, Aegina takes the lead. You have two incredible archaeological remains to explore. The Temple of Apollo is north of Aegina’s port. Only a massive column and walls remain, but the views from there over the sea will take your breath away.
Now, the Temple of Aphaia close to Aegina’s eastern coast, is absolutely amazing. Together with Sounion and the Acropolis, it’s part of the Sacred Temple Triangle. Of the 32 original pillars, 25 are still standing.
In Poros you must visit the Sanctuary of Poseidon, on top of a hill in the center of the island. To be honest, there isn’t much to see but stones. It’s the natural settings that’s stunning. Pines cover the hill and the views are epic.
Churches and Monasteries
Though we are not religious, we have to admit that we love Greek churches and monasteries, not only for their beauty but for their peaceful atmosphere. That’s why we believe Aegina’s Saint Nektarios Temple is more interesting.
The 1910 temple holds the remains of Saint Nektarios. Since people from all over the country visit, feel the country’s soul. It’s magical!
Poros has its own beauty: the Monastery of the life-giving Spring. The 1720 compound is on the slope of a hill covered by pines. The views from there will leave you speechless.
Hotels
When it comes to hotels, it’s a tie. Both Aegina and Poros have a wide range of fantastic properties.
We love staying at the incredible LaLiBay Resort & Spa, some 4 miles (6.5 km) south of Aegina Town. The 5 star uber-luxurious hotel has everything you ever dreamed off at an unbelievable price. In Aegina town we always stay at the Hotel Aegina, set in a lovely garden.
Poros only 5 star hotel is the Sirene Blue Luxury Beach Resort, set in the middle of a pine forest close to the town. It has an awesome pool and a fantastic private beach. Your other option is the Golden View Hotel. It’s a 4 star property directly on the beach.
Bars and Restaurants
Once again, it’s a tie. What can we say? If there’s something that’s consistently great in the whole of Greece, its food and bars. However, our Greek friends swear that Aegina’s spirits are amongst the best in the country. We can’t tell the difference!
In Aegina, we always eat around the fish market. Our favorite places are Ouzeri o Skotadis directly on the seaside promenade and Kriton Gefsis, on nearby P. Irioti street. The latter has live traditional Greek music.
Our favorite restaurant in Poros Old Town is The Old Platanus, on a plaza, next to a huge tree. For cocktails go to the rooftop Oceanis Rooftop Garden Cocktails. Enjoy a killer sunset with your favorite drink in hand.
Day Trips
From Aegina you can take a ferry to Poros, Methana, Agistri, and Piraeus.
Poros is much closer to Hydra, one of Greece’s nicest islands. A ferry from Poros to Hydra takes half an hour and there are several each day. Again, you will regret not spending at least one night in Hydra.
Due to its location, Poros is perfect to continue travelling around the Peloponnese. If you have time, base yourself in Poros and go to Epidaurus and then to Nafplio. The entire ride takes 1.5 hours. However, Nafplio is so beautiful that you have to spend one night there.
Size and Moving Around
Aegina is almost 3 times bigger than Poros. Some 13000 people live in Aegina, while 4000 do so in Poros. The population of both places doubles during the summer. You can walk around Poros Town and Aegina Town in no time. You can also rent a bike in both old towns.
Aegina has 3 public buses that take you to the western coast, the north, and the center of the island. There are no buses along the eastern shore.
There are no public buses that go around the Island. The only public minibus goes around the Old Town and only in the morning. You can take boats that leave from the center to Askeli Beach and Neorio. That said, since Poros is small, taxis are not expensive.
Conclusion
Trust us, you can’t go wrong. No matter which island you choose, you’ll love it. On your next trip to Greece you can try the other one. That said, the following are our conclusions:
Go to Aegina if you are short of time. When friends visit us in Athens for a couple of days, we always take them there. Aegina is perfect if you don’t drive and want to move with public buses. If you are into archaeology you can’t skip Aegina and its Aphaia Temple.
Poros is better if you like nature. The pine forest that covers the island is epic. We like the isolated coves scattered around Poros better than the beaches in Aegina. If you plan on traveling around the Peloponnese go to Poros.
