Angistri – A small paradise near Athens
Let me guess. You’re in Athens, it’s hotter than a jalapeño’s armpit, and you need a getaway that doesn’t involve 5-hour ferry rides or selling your soul for a fancy island villa. Sound about right?
Well, Angistri is your answer. Tiny. Green. Gorgeous. And best of all? Just one hour from Piraeus by ferry. Yeah, you can literally sip your coffee in central Athens and be swimming in turquoise waters before you finish complaining about traffic.
Wait, Where Even Is Angistri?
You know Aegina, right? The popular, but kinda crowded island near Athens? Angistri is its chill little cousin, just a 10-minute hop from Aegina. It’s part of the Saronic Islands and it’s criminally underrated. I mean, don’t tell too many people or we’ll ruin the secret.
Angistri is a small island in Saronic Gulf with beautiful sandy beaches,crystal-clear waters,and traditional colors, and it is just a short ferry boat trip from Athens It was one of the first islands to have a nudist beach, and it still does. Great tavernas with fresh fish and friendly Hotels and apartments. It can be a favorite island for people want visiting Greece every summer, and also is near Athens for go see the Acropolis and other archeological places. Angistri is mostly agricultural and the inhabitants devote themselves mostly to farming and fishing. These islands near Athens(Angistri, Aegina, Hydra, Poros) are also a good choice for the winter months when weather is unpredictable and you don’t want to be too far from Athens. The island’s four communities (Megalochori – Skala – Limenaria – Metochi) are ideal for wonderful summer holidays and for relaxing, calm weekends.
BEACHES OF AGISTRI ISLAND
Why Angistri Feels Like a Secret Paradise
1. It’s Stupidly Close
Seriously, one hour. That’s it. The ferry from Piraeus to Skala or Megalochori (Angistri’s two main ports) takes less time than scrolling Instagram for “summer bod inspo” you’ll never actually use.
2. You Can Actually Afford Stuff Here
Unlike some Greek islands where you need to sell a kidney for a cocktail, Angistri is super budget-friendly:
- Accommodation: You’ll find cute guesthouses from €40 a night.
- Food: Grab fresh seafood and ouzo for under €15.
- Transport: Rent a bike or scooter. Or just walk. It’s that small.
Pro tip: Skip the car rental. You don’t need it, and parking is a nightmare in summer.
3. Beaches That Make You Forget You’re So Close to a City
Let’s be real, nobody goes to an island for the souvenir shops. Beaches are king, and Angistri delivers:
- Aponisos: Picture a lagoon with pine trees touching the sea. Now add a taverna and cold beer. You’re welcome.
- Dragonera: Wild, pebbly, and surrounded by forest. Go for the sunset.
- Chalikiada: A bit of a hike, and clothing is optional (wink).
Ever swam in crystal-clear water while being shaded by pine trees? No? Fix that.
The Food: Like Your Greek Grandma Made It
Even if you don’t have a Greek grandma, the food on Angistri will make you feel like you do.
Must-Try Dishes
- Grilled Octopus: You haven’t lived until you’ve tried this fresh off the grill.
- Fava: Creamy split peas with lemon and onion. Surprisingly addictive.
- Stuffed tomatoes and peppers: You’ll want to hug the cook.
Where to Eat
- Toxotis Tavern (Skala): Simple, local, delicious.
- Aponisos Tavern: Eat while overlooking the lagoon. Just trust me.
-
Kafenes: Tiny spots where the locals hang. If it looks like grandma’s living room, it’s probably amazing.
Nightlife: Yes, There’s Some (But Keep It Classy)
Don’t expect Mykonos vibes here. Angistri’s nightlife is low-key but fun:
- Beach bars in Skala with cocktails and chill music.
- Live Greek music at local taverns.
- Stargazing on a quiet beach = underrated date idea 😉
You won’t end up dancing on a bar at 4 a.m. (unless you really want to), but you will have a great night.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Angistri (Like, Yesterday)
Look, you don’t need to fly halfway across the world or max out a credit card to find island paradise. Angistri is proof.
It’s got the views, the food, the people, and the chill vibes—all within spitting distance of Athens. Perfect for a weekend escape, a solo recharge, or a low-key romantic trip. And IMO, it’s one of the best-kept secrets in Greece.
So what are you waiting for? Book that ferry. Pack that swimsuit. And get your butt to Angistri.
Some more images of Agistri Island
