Spetses is a beautiful, chic Greek island located in the Saronic Gulf, southwest of Athens known for its charming and vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. It is very popular for Athenian due to its proximity to Athens! Angel’s tip: private vehicles are not allowed on the island!
It is part of the Saronic Islands group (close to Athens) along with the below main ones:
- Salamina island
- Aegina island
- Hydra island
- Poros island. Angel’s tip: You can read more for Poros island on my other blog post, here.
- Agistri island. Angel’s tip: You can read more for Agistri island on my other blog post, here.
ACCESS TO THE ISLAND
By Sea
From the port of Piraeus, with the flying dolphins, the trip lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. You can book your tickets here (and help me keep this blog active!)
By Land
- By Bus: From Athens to Kranidi through Epidavros, Ermioni, Porto Heli and then Costa- Spetses island.
- By Car: Via the Athens-Corinth National Road, towards Epidaurus and Spetses. After going through Porto Heli, you can arrive at the small port of Kosta and park there. The trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
From the port of Kosta, 3 options are available for crossing over to Spetses:
- By boat, 15-minute trip and the cost is €3.5 per person.
- By water taxi, 5-minute trip (cost €29 per route, up to 8 persons per route)
- By ferry boat, route costs €3.5 per person.
SPETSES TOWN
Spetses has mainly 1 settlement: Spetses town. And it is divided to 2 main parts:
- The main & new port known as Dapia where the ferry stops & you can find many shops & water taxis.
- The old port of Spetses called Baltiza, located 1.5 km away from Dapia and full of yachts/boats and great bars & restaurants!
TRANSPORTATION ON THE ISLAND
Transportation on Spetses Island in Greece primarily relies on walking, cycling, and limited motorized vehicles. Here are the main modes of transportation on Spetses:
- Walking: Spetses Town and its surrounding areas are pedestrian-friendly, making walking an enjoyable way to explore the island. You can stroll through the narrow streets of the town, visit shops, restaurants, and cafes, and take in the scenic views.
- Bicycles: Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation on Spetses. You can rent bicycles from various shops and rental agencies in Spetses Town and use them to explore the island at your own pace. The flat terrain and relatively small size of the island make cycling a convenient and eco-friendly option.
- Horse Carriages: Horse-drawn carriages are a traditional mode of transportation on Spetses. They operate primarily in Spetses Town and are a charming way to tour the town’s historic streets and waterfront. You can hire a horse carriage for sightseeing or transportation to nearby beaches and attractions.
- Water Taxis: Water taxis provide transportation between Spetses and nearby beaches, coves, and islands. You can catch a water taxi from the main port in Spetses Town to popular beach destinations like Agios Mamas, Agia Marina, and Zogeria Beach. Water taxis offer a convenient way to access remote beaches and explore the island’s coastline.
- Public Bus: Spetses has a limited public bus service that operates between Spetses Town and some of the island’s beaches and settlements mainly during the tourist season . The bus service is infrequent and may not cover all areas of the island, so it’s essential to check the schedule and routes in advance.
- Taxi: Taxis in Spetses are limited since their number corresponds to the number of permanent residents. For that reason, it is recommended to book a taxi in advance is you plan on using one during your stay.
You can call in these numbers: +30 693 2200240, +30 697 1717660, or +30 694 2635656.
THINGS TO DO IN SPETSES:
- Walk at the main town of the island, Dapia. A picturesque settlement on the main port of the island where water taxis mainly bring you, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, neoclassical mansions, and charming waterfront cafes and restaurants. Visitors can wander through the town’s historic neighborhoods, browse boutique shops, and soak in the laid-back island atmosphere.
- Visit the beaches of the island for a swim: Kaiki with its famous beach bar, close to town, Vrellos, Agia Paraskeui, Zogeria, Agioi Anargyri, Agios Mamas, Agia Marina….
- In addition to beach activities, Spetses offers outdoor opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring its scenic landscapes. Visitors can rent bicycles or hike along scenic trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the island.
- Go for walks & drinks in the old port of Spetses called Baltiza. Some famous bars for the night are: Bikini, Hono & Lulu, Booze, Throubi (Greek music), Cielo Mar, Guzel (for late drinks around 3:00)
Outside Guzel 6:00 in the morning
- Spetses is known for its delicious cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy dining at waterfront tavernas and seaside restaurants, where they can savor the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine. Have amazing local food in Tarsanas, Kapelogiannis, Orloff, Mourayo, Portes, Nero tis agapis, Patralis restaurants. Choose Il Padrino for italian.
Tarsanas restaurant
- If you love museums, don’t miss the “Spetses” and “Bouboulina” museums. Spetses has a rich history dating back to ancient times. During the Greek War of Independence in the 19th century, Spetses played a significant role in the fight against Ottoman rule. The island is known for its maritime tradition and was once home to wealthy shipowners and captains.
- Island has many beautiful Christian churches: Agios Nikolaos, Panagia Armata, Agia Paraskeui, Agioi Pantes monastery.
- Spetses is well know for its Traditional Festivals throughout the year. Spetses hosts traditional festivals and cultural events that celebrate the island’s history, culture, and maritime heritage. One of the most famous events is the Armata Festival, which commemorates the naval battle of Spetses during the War of Independence.
- Have a perfect day trip around the island in its magnificent waters. Angel’s tip: I booked with a company called Spetses Maritime and it was awesome! You can check more here and tell them my name to help you!
Angel’s tip: If you have time or on the way back, visit Porto Cheli opposite in the mainland!
ON THE MAINLAND OPPOSITE SPETSES: PORTO CHELI
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐝𝐨 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐢:
- Stroll around the small port in Porto Cheli & have a coffee/food next to the sea
- Visit the beaches of the area like Ververoda, Kounoupi, Hinitsa, Porto Cheli, Lepitsa…
- Have an amazing lunch in “Taverna tis giagias” next to the sea in Hinitsa .
- Enjoy the nightlife in Salazar and Sokaki bars
- Go for brunch in Drougas Bakery.
- Have a day trip with a boat to places close by or as I did, a day tour around Spetses island. It was wonderful!
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