12 Closest Islands To Athens For Your Next Greek Adventure 

Here is a list of the closest islands to Athens you have to visit. We’ve got all of the nearest islands to Athens and how to reach them.

In this guide, we will go through the following islands:

1. Aegina Island – Around 40 minutes to 1 hour by ferry
2. Agistri Island – Approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour by ferry
3. Kea Island (Tzia) – About 1 hour from Lavrio port by ferry
4. Poros Island – Roughly 1 to 2.5 hours by ferry
5. Hydra Island – Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by ferry
6. Andros Island – Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from Rafina port by ferry
7. Spetses Island – About 2 to 3 hours by ferry
8. Syros Island – Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours by ferry
9. Serifos Island – Around 2.5 to 5 hours by ferry
10. Kythnos Island – Roughly 3 hours by ferry
11. Sifnos Island – Roughly 3 to 5 hours by ferry
12. Tinos Island – About 4 hours by ferry

Beautiful Islands From Athens To Visit

Greece is a unique country with many landscapes to discover and enjoy. The Greek Islands are among the most coveted destinations in the Mediterranean… in fact, a holiday in world-famous places such as Mykonos or Santorini is something that many travelers add to their wish list.

However, not everybody has enough time to go Greek island hopping and also take a short break in Athens. Well, we have good news for you: there are many islands you can visit from Athens without spending lots of hours sailing. The islands closest to Athens might not be as famous or glamorous, but they are as beautiful as the best-known Greek Islands.

All you need will be a short ferry ride to discover the Greek island lifestyle, and the unique vibe that is sailing in Greece allows you to experience.

In this article, you will be able to discover which are the best Greek islands close to Athens, what to do on each of the islands, and how to get to them.

After we go through the best islands close to Athens, I’ll then explain which are the most convenient ports for you to get to the islands. Skip ahead if you want to know the ports before you get to know the islands to visit near Athens.

Best Islands Close To Athens – The Famed Greek Capital

This section will discuss the best Greek islands close to Athens. Remember that although a few might seem far from Athens if you depart from the correct port, the sailing times can still be short and convenient.

1. Hydra Island

One of the most beautiful islands close to Athens is the tiny island of Hydra, located on the Saronic Gulf. This island is only about one hour from Piraeus, and it can be a great place to visit whether you have only one day to spend or a whole week.

Hydra is well-known for being a place where wheeled vehicles are banned, so the alternatives to moving around are limited to walking, getting a taxi boat, or riding a donkey.

The island is tiny, and the best can be seen in a day or two. The main attraction in Hydra is the small but picturesque seaside promenade with traditional cafés and tavernas. There are beautiful beaches and a few museums worth a visit as well.

If you plan to stay in Hydra, opting for a rental home to experience Hydra’s lifestyle entirely is a good idea. We recommend checking:

• Douskos Port House right on the waterfront. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Botsis Guest House if you are on a budget. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

2. Spetses Island

Spetses is another Saronic Island close to Athens since the ferry route from Piraeus to Spetses typically takes about 2.5 hours.

With its cosmopolitan vibe and laid-back atmosphere, this is another excellent option if you’re looking for a superb weekend escape not far from the mainland.

The island has gorgeous beaches and excellent shopping options, ideal if you want to combine some quiet time with moments of retail therapy.

If staying on the island, we recommend the following accommodations:

• Kastro Hotel for those who would like to spend the night can experience the thrill of staying in a former mansion. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Porto Vecchio Luxury Suites to enjoy the views of Spetses Old Port district. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

3. Poros Island

Located in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, Poros is easy to reach from Athens and other small islands, such as Aegina and Agistri. Only an hour from Piraeus, Poros has earned the status of a popular destination for a weekend away from Athens.

Once on the island, it’s a good idea to stroll along the alleys of Poros Town to discover the many cafés, shops, and traditional taverns that populate the area. Instead, if you are interested in the island’s history, don’t miss a stop at the Archaeological Museum of Poros or explore the Roloi Tower for an awe-inspiring view of the island.

Excellent places to stay in Poros are:

• Villa Dolphins for excellent family-friendly choice, only 180 meters from Askeli Beach. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Dionysos Hotel a good alternative, facing the new port and Mount Kimomeni. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

Thanks to this abundance of attractions, cultural landmarks, and family-friendly activities, this is easily one of the best islands near Athens for a short getaway.

4. Aegina Island

One of our favorite islands off Athens is Aegina, which is located just an easy 45-minute ride from Piraeus. This is a bigger island that can be perfect for a four-day vacation. This is the closest Greek island to Athens, making it a popular destination.

There’s plenty to do in Aegina, such as visiting the Temple of Aphaia, Greece’s best-preserved Classical temple, or sampling top-quality pistachios, a trademark on this nearest island to Athens.

Aegina also boasts some unique, pristine beaches and beautiful fishing villages where it is possible to feast on fresh fish and stunning seaside views.

Consider staying a night at these great accommodations on the island:

• Ulrika Hotel is a convenient place to stay in Aegina Town. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Panorama Hotel for those looking to stay close to the beach, in the center of Agia Marina. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

5. Agistri Island

One more Saronic island that you can easily visit from Athens is Agistri. Travelers need 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to get there and enjoy all the beautiful things the destination offers. Agistri is also well connected to Aegina, making it easier for visitors to explore both islands during the same trip.

Agistri is home to the best of everything featured on the most famous Greek Islands, including fantastic beaches, a delicious gastronomic panorama, and unique natural landscapes. Hiking, cycling, and trekking are some of the popular sports in Agistri, while those into nightlife can easily have a great time in some of the bars at Skala.

Staying in Agistri can be pretty cheap if you book accommodation in advance. We recommend checking the following:

• Aktaion Beach Boutique Hotel in Skala. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Meltemi Studios in the village of Megalochori. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

6. Kea Island

Also known as Tzia, this is the closest Cycladic island to Athens. The best way to reach Kea is to travel from Athens to Kea departing from the Port of Athens; the travel time is about an hour.

A perfect destination for a relaxing holiday or a weekend escape, the island features impressive beaches where you can unwind and relax, admiring the unique views of the island. Among the best beaches, travelers can choose between Sikamia, Xyla, or the lesser-known Spathi.

The island boasts a super laid-back vibe. On Kea, it’s possible to hike through ancient forests, explore remote coves, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of different festivals during the high summer season.

Are you planning to stay in Kea? Then don’t book before you have checked some of the most convenient places to stay on the island, including:

• Kea Village for a the superb stay in Ioulida. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Anemousa Studios for a more convenient in the village of Otzias. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

7. Kythnos Island

Kythnos is a rather unusual destination not far from Athens; the best way to get there is by traveling the ferry route Lavrio – Kythnos, which usually takes about 2 hours. Therefore, the island is a convenient and nearby destination for a weekend or a short escape from Athens.

The coast of Kythnos boasts over 70 different beaches, so there’s no shortage of magnificent places to swim and sunbathe on the Aegean. The island offers many outdoor activities and unique spots, such as hot springs and caves.

The best area to stay on the island is the capital, Kythnos Chora, especially if you are not renting a car to move around.

• Helichrysum Kythnos is a top-rated hotel with fantastic reviews. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Nefeli Suites Kythnos for a more intimate and private stay, in the pristine village of Loutra. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

8. Andros Island

The northernmost island of the Cycladic cluster, Andros, is a mountainous island with fertile valleys and magnificent coasts. Andros can be reached from the Port of Rafina, while the ferry takes only 2 hours.

The island features gorgeous traditional villages where travelers can get in touch with locals and discover the authentic Greek traditions that still live on Andros. A visit during the high season guarantees the possibility of experiencing summer festivals to sample the delicious local cuisine, dance, and have fun.

If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay in Andros, check for accommodation in the main town and port of Gavrio and Andros Chora.

• Ostria Hotel & Apartments is a suitable family accommodation in the center of Gavrio. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Anemomiloi Andros is a lovely, pet-friendly place, just steps from the old town of Andros, close to museums and other attractions in the Chora. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

9. Tinos Island

Tinos is another marvelous Cycladic Island that can be easily reached from Athens, departing from the port of Rafina. The trip lasts from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the ferry you choose for the ride. Tinos is one of Greece’s most beloved destinations and one of the best islands close to Athens. Moreover, since it’s close to Andros and Mykonos, it can easily be included in an island-hopping itinerary.

The island is famous for the many religious festivals and cultural events hosted all year round, including the imposing feast held on August 15, the feast day of the Virgin Mary, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors for centuries. Tinos’ most important church, Panagia Megalochari, is the central focus of the celebration.

Hiking and cycling are some of the popular activities you can enjoy on the island, as well as some of the most relaxing and stunning beaches in the Aegean.

When visiting Tinos, booking a hotel in Tinos Town is a good idea if you plan to walk or use public transport.

• Golden Beach Hotel & Apartments is located near Agios Fokas Beach and offers the best of the city center in a waterfront property. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Living Theros Luxury Suites for a romantic setting. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Villa Cybele in Kardiani for a dreamy seaside stay. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

10. Sifnos Island

Sifnos can be close and far from Athens; it depends on what kind of ferry you choose. The crossing to Sifnos can last 2.5 hours with a fast ferry or 5 hours with regular service.

Sifnos can be an incredible travel experience and the perfect destination to marvel at the beautiful traditional Cycladic architecture of whitewashed houses and chapels in solitary spots close to the sea.

Among the many things to do on the island, do not miss a stroll around the old Kastro of Sifnos, an ancient Venetian citadel dating back to the fourteenth century, or explore some of the most beautiful photogenic monasteries in Greece.

Accommodation is available all over the island; it all depends on what kind of traveler you are. Go for the villages of Faros or Vathi if you prefer peace and a bit of isolation. Book a stay in Kamari, Agia Marina, or Apollonia if entertainment is crucial work during your holidays.

• Nival Boutique Hotel is a top choice in Apollonia. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Aerides Boutique Rooms is a very convenient and classy place to stay in Vathi, with very affordable prices. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳

11. Serifos Island

Like reaching Sifnos, traveling to Serifos can be convenient depending on the vessel you choose to get to the island. Ferry crossings from Piraeus to Serifos can take 2.5 to 5 hours, so getting on the fastest ferry can make all the difference.

Often considered the best starting point to venture on an island-hopping holiday, trips to Serifos can be crowded, and it is often challenging to get tickets during the busiest months of the season; booking in advance is always a good idea.

When exploring this tiny island, keep in mind that the landscape is not flat, so hiking, walking, or driving are necessary to reach the idyllic beaches of the beautiful Chora of Sifnos, on top of a hill not far from the main port.

Remember that staying close to the port makes exploring and moving around easier when considering where to stay.

• Alexandros Resort Serifos, on the enchanting beach of Livadakia, for those in Serifos to swim and enjoy its pristine shores. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳
• Astrio Studios is a luxurious but affordable place to stay in a very central position yet offers private and secluded accommodation. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳ 

12. Syros Island

Another island that could not miss from this list is Syros, probably the most elegant destination in the Aegean. Although Syros is the capital of the Cyclades and an essential place in Greece, it is pretty off the beaten track and free from mass tourism, making it a desirable location for those searching for extreme relaxation and tranquility.

The journey from Athens to Syros can take 2 to 4 hours, departing from the Port of Lavrio (the routes from Piraeus can take longer). Syros is famous for its gastronomy, traditional music, and Neoclassical mansions in the capital, Ermoupolis, with imposing and colorful facades.

Are you traveling to Syros soon?

• Faros Resort is a comfortable Syros hotel for families right by the sea; it overlooks a private natural bay and boasts stunning views over the Aegean, only 3.5 km from Ermoupolis. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳ 
• Aegean Paradiso Vacation Club, which is particularly good for families and is only steps from the beach. Check out the hotel & prices here ↳ 

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Athens Main Ports & How To Get The Greek Islands Near Athens 

The first thing to know when planning a trip to one (or more) of the Greek islands near Athens is that most of them don’t have an airport, so the ideal way to get there is by jumping on a ferry. There are three ports in Athens, each serving different islands.

The port of Piraeus is the biggest and best-known one, with ships sailing to hundreds of islands; both the ports of Lavrio and Rafina can be less crowded and easier to reach. They connect the capital to nearby islands and can be a good alternative if you reach them directly from the Athens International Airport.

Port of Piraeus

Piraeus is the chief port of Athens and the largest passenger port in Europe. And despite being such a huge place where getting lost could seem feasible, it is well organized and easy to navigate from one terminal to another. The port even offers a free shuttle bus service to take passengers from one terminal to the other.

If you’re planning trips to islands in the Saronic Gulf, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, Rhodes, Crete, Kythira, and the islands on the Northern Aegean Sea, and Rhodes, you will undoubtedly depart from here.

Piraeus is located about 13 km from the center of Athens and can be easily reached from the center of town. Bus 049 departs every 20 minutes from Omonia, while Bus 040 departs every 15720 minutes from Syntagma Square. It’s also possible to get to Piraeus by train and — the most convenient means — by metro. You have to board your subway either at Monastiraki or Omonia stations. It will take a little more than 15 minutes to reach Piraeus metro station, just across the street from the port.

Athens International Airport is 35 km from Piraeus, so the trip takes longer, sometimes more than an hour. Although the bus’s cheapest option (Bus X96 departs every 15 minutes, the ticket costs 6 euros), the most comfortable way to travel is with the suburban train (10 euros).

A taxi or transfer service is more expensive (from 40 to 80 euros), but it’s ideal if you do not have so much time to spare.

Port of Rafina

It’s Athens’ second-busiest port and is located 33 km east of the center of Athens. Since it is very close to Athens International Airport, it can be a great place to start your island journey. It is also possible to travel to some Greek Islands leaving from the Port of Rafina.

Due to its location, most travelers choose Rafina to travel from Athens to the northwestern Cyclades, including nearby Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos. Other island destinations reachable from this Athens port include Milos and Santorini, and there’s also a seasonal ferry to Crete.

The trip to Andros from Rafina takes only 1-2 hours, while Tinos can be reached in 2-3 hours. So, although Tinos is not the closest island to Athens, the location of this port puts Tinos among some of the closest islands to visit from Athens.

A taxi ride from the center of Athens takes approximately an hour, and the trip can cost up to 60 euros. The ride to Rafina Port from the city center takes about 90 minutes. An intercity bus departs from Pedion tou Aeros, and the ticket is 3 euro.

Port of Lavrio

The third port in importance, Lavrio, serves the routes connecting Athens to the Cyclades and the islands of the Northeast Aegean. Departing from the port of Lavrio works excellent for those traveling to some of the Cyclades, mainly Kea (Tzia) and Kythnos. The trip to Kea takes only an hour while reaching Kythnos can take up to 2.5 hours.

Since it is located about 60 km from the center of Athens, it might not be the most comfortable port for your departure. However, Lavrio is just 30 km from Athens International Airport.

The main ways to reach the port of Lavrio from the center of Athens are by taxi (from 60 to 80 euros) or with the intercity bus departing from Pedion tou Areos (departure is hourly, and the trip can take up to 2 hours, the ticket is 6 euro).

Getting to Lavrio from Athens Airport costs about 60 euros by taxi or bus (the ticket costs 5 euros and the journey is about an hour).

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Best Islands Near Athens FAQs

Final Word On Close Islands To Athens

Starting in Athens, a treasure trove of islands awaits just an hour or two away, offering an escape from the concrete jungle of the capital of Greece. Aegina, the closest at just 16 nautical miles, is perfect for day trips from Athens. But there’s plenty more to explore: the tiny island of Agistri, with its ports of Scala and Megalochori, is minutes away, offering a quaint retreat.

The Cycladic island of Kea, close to Cape Sounion, and the historical island of Hydra, where cars give way to horse-drawn carriages and sites like the Bouboulina Museum echo the Greek War of Independence, are also worth a visit.

Whether you’re looking for stunning islands or traditional Greek charm, you’ll find that these five islands, including two within an hour and 15 minutes via ferry, are among the nicest islands to spend a day or more exploring historic homes and clock towers or relaxing on many of the beaches.

As you can see, the nearest Greek islands to Athens all have short sailing times, so all you have to decide is which ones you will enjoy.

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