AEGINA FROM ATHENS

Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your accommodation and escort you to Piraeus Port. Your assistant will give you the necessary information about the excursion and answer any questions you may have. At Piraeus port, you will board the Fast Ferry that will take you directly to the island of Aegina.

Chora means "capital" and is the name given to the main village, where the majority of the population of the island is concentrated, to differentiate it from the rest of the island. This town, with a history of 5500 years, its twisted alleys and major streets dotted with neoclassical mansions, is arranged in the form of an amphitheater facing the sea. At the harbor dominates the church of Agios Nikolaos, protector of the sailors.

The monastery of Saint Nectarius was built in the center of the island by the saint himself when he retired to monastic life. He was buried in this same place, and years later he was canonized.  Ceremonies take place in his honor every year on November 9th. This monastery is following the architectural model of Saint Sophia of Constantinople.

Perhaps the most characteristic monument of Aegina is the Temple of Afea Athena dating back to the 5th century BC. It is a great example of the Doric style although it has two levels. It was built in commemoration of the battle of Salamis and is located 11 km east of Chora.

Examples of the medieval era can be seen in the village of Paleochora, where constructions of the XIII century are still conserved for the contemporary visitor.

A nice excursion can be to the resort of Santa Marina, about 3.5 kilometers to the northeast of the island, built next to a pine-bordered 500 meters beautiful beach.

In the afternoon, you will return to the port where you will catch the Fast Ferry back to the port of Piraeus. And this will be the end of your day tour.

Greca Tip: Stroll through Aegina Town, its neoclassical buildings, and narrow alleys, and enjoy your drink at a cafe along the bustling waterfront.