Salamina probably isn\u2019t the Greek island that will take your breath away but it might be one of the easiest island escapes you can make from Athens.<\/p>\n
Located in the Saronic Gulf, just off the coast of Attica, Salamina is only around 15 minutes by ferry from Perama, which means you can easily visit for the day without much planning. And I think that\u2019s exactly how Salamina should be experienced. I wouldn\u2019t choose it for a proper Greek island holiday, and it\u2019s definitely not among my favourite islands in Greece. You won\u2019t find the spectacular beaches, charming island towns or postcard-perfect scenery that you might associate with other Greek destinations.<\/p>\n
But for an easy day trip from Athens? It works really well. Take your car on the ferry, drive around the island, discover some of its surprisingly important history, stop for lunch at a traditional taverna, perhaps go for a swim and return to Athens in the evening. Salamina is also closely connected to one of the most important naval battles in ancient history – the Battle of Salamis in 480 BC and has several interesting historical and cultural sites to discover along the way.<\/p>\n
So, if you\u2019re looking for a simple, affordable and easy island day trip from Athens, here\u2019s everything you need to know before visiting Salamina.<\/p>\n
Where is Salamina?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Salamina is located in the Saronic Gulf, very close to Athens and Piraeus. At approximately 93.5 km\u00b2, it is the largest of the Saronic Islands and has around 100 km of coastline. Parts of the island are surprisingly green, particularly around the forests of Faneromeni and Kanakia.<\/p>\n Salamina may be close to modern Athens, but its history goes back thousands of years. The island is internationally famous for the Battle of Salamis in 480 BC, one of the most important naval battles of antiquity. A combined fleet of Greek city-states defeated the much larger Persian fleet of King Xerxes in the narrow waters around Salamina.<\/p>\n The victory became a defining event of the Greco-Persian Wars. The island is also traditionally associated with Ajax, the legendary hero of the Trojan War, and was the birthplace of Euripides, one of the greatest playwrights of ancient Greece. Centuries later, Salamina also became connected with important figures in modern Greek history and culture, including the poet Angelos Sikelianos. So don\u2019t visit Salamina only for the sea – there is a surprising amount of history to discover here.<\/p>\n How to Get to Salamina from Athens<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Getting to Salamina is incredibly easy. The most convenient route is:<\/p>\n Athens \u2192 Perama \u2192 Paloukia port in Salamina<\/p>\n Head to Perama Port, west of Piraeus and take the ferry to Paloukia, the main port of Salamina.<\/p>\n When I visited, we paid approximately \u20ac7-8 one way for the car and two people, but keep in mind that ferry prices can change, so check the current fare before travelling. One of the best things about this route is its frequency. Ferries run throughout the day, making Salamina an exceptionally easy and flexible island trip from Athens.<\/p>\n Do You Need a Car in Salamina?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n I definitely recommend bringing a car. Salamina is larger than you might expect, and many of the places worth visiting are scattered around the island.<\/p>\n Although there are local buses and taxis, having your own car makes a huge difference, particularly if you want to combine the town, historical sights, the southern part of the island and a beach in a single day. And because you can simply drive your car onto the ferry at Perama, it couldn\u2019t be easier.<\/p>\n Best Things to Do in Salamina<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n 1. Explore Salamina Town<\/strong><\/p>\n Start your day by exploring Salamina Town, the island\u2019s main town. This isn\u2019t a polished tourist resort designed specifically for visitors. It is a lively Greek town where people actually live year-round, which gives it a much more local atmosphere. Walk around the streets, browse the shops and stop for a coffee before continuing your day.<\/p>\n 2. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Salamina<\/strong><\/p>\n While you\u2019re in town, visit the Archaeological Museum of Salamina. The museum houses archaeological finds discovered across the island and gives you a much better understanding of Salamina\u2019s long history, from prehistoric and ancient times onwards.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re interested in Greek history, it\u2019s a worthwhile stop before exploring the island\u2019s historical sites.<\/p>\n 3. Visit the Monastery of Faneromeni<\/strong><\/p>\n Next, drive towards the Monastery of Faneromeni, one of Salamina\u2019s most important religious and historical landmarks. The monastery dates in its present form largely to the 17th century and is known for its beautiful religious art and peaceful surroundings. It also played an important role during the Greek War of Independence, providing refuge and care for wounded fighters.<\/p>\n The surrounding landscape, with pine trees and views towards the sea, makes the drive here worthwhile even if religious sites aren\u2019t normally at the top of your list.<\/p>\n 4. See the House of Angelos Sikelianos<\/strong><\/p>\n Across from the monastery, don\u2019t miss the House of Angelos Sikelianos. The famous Greek poet lived here for a period of his life, and the small white house sits right beside the sea.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a beautiful and peaceful spot and an easy addition to your visit to Faneromeni.<\/p>\n 5. Discover the Cave of Euripides<\/strong><\/p>\n Continue towards the southern part of Salamina and the area of Peristeria, where you\u2019ll find the Cave of Euripides. According to tradition, the ancient Greek playwright Euripides used the cave as a retreat where he could escape everyday life and write. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of human activity in the cave spanning different historical periods.<\/p>\n Even beyond its connection to Euripides, exploring this quieter side of Salamina gives you a completely different perspective on the island.<\/p>\n 6. Explore Kanakia & relax at Kanakia beach<\/strong><\/p>\n This is one of my favourite areas to include when exploring Salamina. The southern part of the island becomes much greener, with pine-covered landscapes and the Kanakia Forest stretching towards the coast. There are walking and cycling routes in the wider area as well as historical and archaeological points of interest. It\u2019s one of those places that reminds you how different parts of Salamina can feel from the busy coast facing Athens.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re visiting during the warmer months, don’t miss Kanakia Beach. Surrounded by greenery, it is a lovely place to stop for a swim and relax before continuing your road trip. The clear water and more natural surroundings make Kanakia one of my favourite choices for combining sightseeing with some beach time.<\/p>\n Depending on which part of the island you\u2019re exploring, you can also look for the other beaches of the island:<\/p>\n Angel\u2019s tip<\/strong><\/span>: I wouldn\u2019t choose Salamina specifically for a luxury beach holiday. There are other Greek islands with much more spectacular beaches for sure. What makes Salamina interesting is the combination of beaches, nature, history and local life – particularly considering how incredibly close it is to Athens.<\/span><\/p>\n 7. Visit the Battle of Salamis Monument<\/strong><\/p>\n Before leaving the island, learn a little more about the event that made Salamina famous around the world. The Battle of Salamis Monument commemorates the Greeks who fought in the historic naval battle of 480 BC. The wider Kynosoura area is closely associated with the ancient battle and is an interesting stop if you\u2019re interested in history.<\/p>\n Every September, Salamina also hosts Salaminia, a series of cultural events commemorating the Battle of Salamis.<\/p>\n Where to Eat in Salamina\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n And, of course, no Greek island day trip is complete without a long lunch! Salamina has plenty of traditional tavernas and seafood restaurants, and these are a few options I recommend:<\/p>\n Salamina is known for fresh fish and seafood, but also keep an eye out for some of its traditional local recipes. One of them is platetsi, a traditional olive-oil pie associated with the island.<\/p>\n Best Time to Visit Salamina<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Salamina can be visited throughout the year because, unlike many smaller Greek islands, it has a large permanent population and doesn\u2019t completely shut down outside summer.For swimming, May to September is the best period. However, I also really like the idea of visiting during spring or early autumn, when the weather is pleasant enough to explore the archaeological sites, forests and villages without the intense summer heat. If beaches aren\u2019t your priority, Salamina can make an easy escape from Athens almost any time of year.<\/p>\n How Long Do You Need in Salamina?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n For a first visit, one full day is enough to see many of the main highlights, particularly if you have a car. However, staying one night allows you to slow things down, spend more time at the beach and enjoy dinner on the island without thinking about your return to Athens.<\/p>\n I\u2019d suggest:<\/p>\n Day trip: Perfect for the main highlights. The Perfect Salamina Day Trip Itinerary<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n If you only have one day in Salamina, this is the route I recommend:<\/p>\n Is Salamina Worth Visiting?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Salamina is not one of my favourite Greek islands, nor is it an island that particularly impressed me in terms of beauty and I think it\u2019s important to be honest about that.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t visit expecting a picture-perfect Greek island, an especially beautiful main town or spectacular beaches. Greece has countless islands that I would choose over Salamina if I were planning a proper island holiday. But that\u2019s not really why I would recommend visiting Salamina. Its biggest advantage is how incredibly easy it is to reach from Athens. In just around 15 minutes by ferry from Perama, you can leave the city behind and spend a relaxed day on an island.<\/p>\n Come for a simple day trip: drive around, discover a little of its fascinating history, stop for a swim if the weather is nice, enjoy fresh seafood at a local taverna and head back to Athens in the evening. For me, one day is enough and I personally wouldn\u2019t choose Salamina for a longer Greek island holiday. But if you live in Athens or have some extra time in the city and fancy an easy change of scenery without the planning, expense or long ferry journey, Salamina does the job perfectly.<\/p>\n Just come with the right expectations: an easy local escape from Athens rather than one of Greece\u2019s must-see islands.<\/p>\n Salamina at a Glance<\/p>\n \ud83d\udccd Where: Saronic Gulf, Attica, Greece Planning a trip to Athens? Save Salamina for an easy Greek island escape just outside the city!<\/p>\n Check my hightlight on Instagram and posts for more FLORINA & other content!<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n IG: explorewith.angel<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u03a3\u03b7\u03bc\u03b5\u03af\u03c9\u03c3\u03b7:<\/strong> \u039c\u03b5\u03c1\u03b9\u03ba\u03bf\u03af \u03b1\u03c0\u03cc \u03c4\u03bf\u03c5\u03c2 \u03c3\u03c5\u03bd\u03b4\u03ad\u03c3\u03bc\u03bf\u03c5\u03c2 \u03c3\u03b5 \u03b1\u03c5\u03c4\u03ae\u03bd \u03c4\u03b7 \u03c3\u03b5\u03bb\u03af\u03b4\u03b1 \u03b5\u03af\u03bd\u03b1\u03b9 \u03c3\u03cd\u03bd\u03b4\u03b5\u03c3\u03bc\u03bf\u03b9 \u03c3\u03c5\u03bd\u03b5\u03c1\u03b3\u03b1\u03c4\u03ce\u03bd. \u0391\u03bd \u03ba\u03ac\u03bd\u03b5\u03c4\u03b5 \u03ba\u03c1\u03ac\u03c4\u03b7\u03c3\u03b7 \u03bc\u03ad\u03c3\u03c9 \u03b1\u03c5\u03c4\u03ce\u03bd, \u03b5\u03bd\u03b4\u03ad\u03c7\u03b5\u03c4\u03b1\u03b9 \u03bd\u03b1 \u03ba\u03b5\u03c1\u03b4\u03af\u03c3\u03c9 \u03bc\u03b9\u03b1 \u03bc\u03b9\u03ba\u03c1\u03ae \u03c0\u03c1\u03bf\u03bc\u03ae\u03b8\u03b5\u03b9\u03b1 \u03c7\u03c9\u03c1\u03af\u03c2 \u03b5\u03c0\u03b9\u03c0\u03bb\u03ad\u03bf\u03bd \u03ba\u03cc\u03c3\u03c4\u03bf\u03c2 \u03b3\u03b9\u03b1 \u03b5\u03c3\u03ac\u03c2 \u2014 \u03bc\u03b5 \u03b2\u03bf\u03b7\u03b8\u03ac \u03bd\u03b1 \u03c3\u03c5\u03bd\u03b5\u03c7\u03af\u03c3\u03c9 \u03bd\u03b1 \u03b4\u03b7\u03bc\u03b9\u03bf\u03c5\u03c1\u03b3\u03ce \u03b4\u03c9\u03c1\u03b5\u03ac\u03bd \u03c4\u03b1\u03be\u03b9\u03b4\u03b9\u03c9\u03c4\u03b9\u03ba\u03bf\u03cd\u03c2 \u03bf\u03b4\u03b7\u03b3\u03bf\u03cd\u03c2 \u03b3\u03b9\u03b1 \u03b5\u03c3\u03ac\u03c2. \u03a3\u03b1\u03c2 \u03b5\u03c5\u03c7\u03b1\u03c1\u03b9\u03c3\u03c4\u03ce \u03b3\u03b9\u03b1 \u03c4\u03b7\u03bd \u03c5\u03c0\u03bf\u03c3\u03c4\u03ae\u03c1\u03b9\u03be\u03ae \u03c3\u03b1\u03c2!<\/em><\/span><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Salamina probably isn\u2019t the Greek island that will take your breath away but it might be one of the easiest island escapes you can make from Athens. Located in the Saronic Gulf, just off the… <\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1230],"tags":[313,1226,1227,1228,1229,1225],"class_list":["post-14641","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-salamina","tag-argosaronikos","tag-battle-of-salamis","tag-kakias","tag-paloukia","tag-perama","tag-salamina"],"yoast_head":"\n\n
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\n1 night: Better if you want sightseeing + beaches at a relaxed pace.
\n2 nights – weekend: Plenty of time to explore different parts of the island and relax.<\/p>\n\n
\n\u26f4\ufe0f Ferry: Perama \u2192 Paloukia
\n\u23f1\ufe0f Crossing: Around 15 minutes
\n\ud83d\ude97 Car: Highly recommended
\n\u23f3 How long: 1 day or 1-2 nights
\n\u2600\ufe0f Best time: Spring to early autumn, although it can be visited year-round
\n\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Don\u2019t miss: Faneromeni Monastery, Euripides Cave & Salamis history
\n\ud83c\udf32 Nature: Kanakia Forest
\n\ud83c\udfd6\ufe0f Beach: Kanakia
\n\ud83c\udf7d\ufe0f Food: Ouzeri O Kakias, Bakothanasis & Kohyli<\/p>\n