Syros island

The weather in Syros

Syros is the capital of Cyclades complex. This island combines the culture: modern & retro, entertainment: Greek & European, religion: Orthodox & Catholic in the most harmonious way.

Ermoupoli is the capital city of Syros, a jewel of neoclassical architecture with grand public buildings and dazzling cultural monuments.

The must sightseeing of Syros are:

• The Apollon Theater, Greece’s first ever opera house, was designed by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo. The two-storey building opened its doors in 1864 with a performance of Verdi’s Rigoletto. Nowadays it hosts the annual event of “Ermoupolia” as well as a variety of theatrical performances.
  

Apollon Theater

Apollon Theater

• The church of Dormition, where you can admire the small painting of  Virgin Mary (1562-1562), one of the first masterpieces of El Greco (Dominikos Theotokopoulos).

• In Syros there are so many festivals that are being held during all months of the year. Some of the most popular are the following: The International Film Festival, Kids Festival, Animasyros: International Animation Festival, Tango Festival, Jazz Festival, Guitar Festival.

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  Syros has a ferry connection with the following ports: Piraeus, Rafina, Lavrio, Thessaloniki, Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Astypalaia, Chios, Donoussa, Folegandros, Ikaria, Ios, Kavala, Iraklia, Kea (Tzia), Kimolos, Kos, Koufonisia, Kythnos, Limnos, Leros, Lesvos (Mytilini), Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Patmos, Rhodes, Santorini, Schinousa, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Fournoi, Tinos.
  

One of the most impressive spots of Syros is the old shipowners’ neighborhood of Vaporia, where you can stroll round a refined setting of neoclassical mansions, palm trees and gorgeous terraces that once hosted the island’s most exclusive parties and receptions.

Vaporia

Vaporia

Vaporia

In Syros you will discover cosmopolitan beaches, organized ones, remote and quiet beaches, with sand or pebbles and beaches where you can do numerous sea sports. Some of the most known are: Agathopes, Galissas, Achladi and Megas Gialos, Delfini, Kini, Vari, Azolimnos, Posidonia. 

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 During sunset, you can stroll around the narrow, cobbled streets of Ano Syros (“Upper Syros), built on a hill, with the cathedral of Agios Georgios, or Saint George, on its top. It is a medieval settlement that is still inhabited mainly by Catholics. Some of the main attractions of the settlement are the Capuchin Monastery with the church of Agios Ioannis, the church of Agia Triada and Agios Nikolaos the Poor – which are in fact the only Orthodox churches in Upper Syros – the Jesuit Monastery with the church of Virgin Mary of Carmel and of course the Museum of Markos Vamvakaris which is connected to the area due to his origin.

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The weather in Kythnos

Such a wonderful island is only less than two hours journey from the port of Lavrio, with many sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting coves, picturesque paths, traditional little taverns, restaurants and cafes.

Kythnos has all those characteristics that make it unique and suitable for hiking. Through the paths of Kythnos, a visitor has the opportunity to get in touch with the  roots, history, natural beauty and culture of this distinguishable island.

Kythnos offers the most isolated beaches than almost any other island. As a whole, for such a small island, there is an incredible number of beaches. Both small and large sandy beaches ring the whole island, creating a delicate lace of coves and beaches.

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Explore Katafyki Cave, with its fantastic rock formations and spectacular stalactites. This unique geological monument was once a mine and during the 2nd World War was used as a shelter. Longer ago, the islanders would gather in the main chamber at Easter to celebrate the Resurrection.

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While being in Kythnos, do not miss to participate on a boat trip around the island and exploring the neighbouring island of Agios Loukas, with its church, ancient ruins, and wonderful caves.

Kythnos has a ferry connection with the following ports: Piraeus (Athens), Lavrio, Andros, Ios, Kea (Tzia), Kimolos, Milos, Naxos, Paros, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Syros, Folegandros.

Some of the high lights of Kythnos are the following:

• The historic monastery of  Virgin Mary of Nikous (“Nikous” is meaning the one who brings the victory). Legend has it, that the miraculous icon of Virgin Mary was brought here after the Fall of Constantinople and then spirited away to Venice, where it is now held in Saint Mark’s Basilica.

Virgin Mary of Nikous

Monastery of Nikous

Monastery of Nikous

• One of the hidden treasures of Kythnos is the castle of Oria. This legendary Castle was the medeival capital of Kythnos during the period of Venetian rule. It is an evocative location, with some centuries-old murals and the churches of the Holy Trinity and Divine Mercy, two of the hundred or so that once stood here.

Oria Castle of Kythnos

• Loutra (baths) area, have been a touristic attraction with two hot springs: The first is the one of Agioi Anargyroi and it is saline. It is located within a hydrotherapy facility (bath spa) that has been operating for many years attracting a large number of visitors. The second which is called the spring of Kakavos, is 50 meters away from the first one, containing iodine, bromide and sodium chloride while its temperature reaches 52 degrees Celsius. It has been scientifically proven that the waters of the springs are indicated for the treatment of rheumatic, arthritic and gynecological diseases.

Hydra island

The weather in Hydra

Hydra island is the cosmopolitan and artistic “Lady of the Argosaronic Gulf” with its romantic atmosphere and so many incomparably beautiful villas and picturesque alleys, deserves this title. Being only less than 2 hours away from Piraeus by ferry, it makes this destination very accessible for weekend and day trips.

This island feels unspoiled due to the absence of any motorized vehicle. You’ll be able to spend time strolling about on foot, soaking up every minute of the Hydra experience.

There are quiet and crowded beaches, great entertainment opportunities and a superb service, that meets even the most fussy demands. Some of the unique beaches are: Mandraki, Aghios Nikolas, Bisti, Kaminia, Vlychos. 

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Do not miss the experience to participate on a boat trip to the island of Dokos (or else Aperopia) in the straits between Hydra and the Peloponnese. Swim in its crystal-clear waters, where the world’s oldest shipwreck (dating from the 3rd millennium BC) was discovered in 1975.

Dokos islet

Dokos islet

Dokos islet

Hydra has a ferry connection with the following ports: Piraeus, Spetses, Poros, Porto Heli, Ermioni, Metohi (Peloponnese).

Hydra has inspired dozens of intellectuals and artists and you can go on a literary pilgrimage to the house of the famous Canadian poet and songwriter Leonard Cohen (he lived there for 6 years in the 1960s).

Cohen’s house, Hydra island

Cohen’s house, Hydra island

Cohen’s house, Hydra island

While being in Hydra:

• You can watch the sunset from the Bastions with their cannons to the right and left of the Hydra’s port.

• You can experience the spectacle of the “Miaoulia Festival” in June. The highlight of the celebrations is a re-enactment of the 1821 Battle of Hydra, at which a replica Turkish frigate is burnt to the sound of classical music followed by a firework display.

In Hydra you can move by scooters, by donkeys, by bicycles or just walk.

Spetses island

The weather in Spetses

Spetses Island is lying in Argosaronikos’ Gulf along with Hydra Island. It is known by the Venetians as the “Izola di Spezzie” (the island of scents) a place that stands against time’s velocity and modern trends.

Spetses is the land of many great captains back that fought in 1821 Greek Revolution, a shelter for many celebrities and “primes”, that choose this island for their relaxation and vacations.

The only means of transportation in Spetses are bicycles and horse carriages-a remembrance of the island’s glorious past! Do not miss the chance to go for a romantic evening ride in a horse-drawn carriage along the coastal road that connects the port of Dapia with the old harbor.

Small boats, sea taxis, and summer free-buses, will take you to the secluded beaches of Agia Paraskevi and Xilokeriza. The popular beach of Agioi Anargiri is organized with sunbeds and beach bars. You can also enjoy water sports like water ski, kayak, banana boat ride and windsurf. Another astonished beaches are: Zogeria & Agia Marina.

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Accross Spetses Island there is Spetsopoula Island, another small paradise, very close to Agia Marina Bay. The island belongs to the family of shipowner Stavros Niarchos. You can approach the island by sea-taxi.

Spetsopoula island

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Spetses has two cinemas: Cine Titania (covered one, open during winter months) and Cine Marina (open-air summer cinema).

Spetses port is connected to Hydra, Aegina and Poros, as sea-taxis and boats carry visitors during summertime and Piraeus, Porto Heli & Ermioni as well.

Spetses is also the island of the legendary female naval commander, Laskarina Bouboulina. One of the most important sites to visit is the marvelous “Bouboulina Museum“. There you can learn all about the legendary naval commander of the Greek War of Independence, the only woman ever to have held the title of Admiral.  Housed in the family mansion, the museum displays relics of the 1821 uprising (including collections of weapons, old books, paintings, letters, and models of ships), personal belongings and old furniture.

Bouboulina Museum

Bouboulina Museum

Bouboulina Museum

While being in Spetses:

• You can explore the Old Port, the center of the island’s nightlife.  Make a stop to admire the magnificent Poseidonion Grand Hotel, an architectural jewel and a favorite destination for high society.

Poseidonion Grand Hotel

• For those who love walking or riding a bicycle, Spetses offer many paths around the city. The most popular is the one leading to Profitis Ilias church, the island’s highest spot, where you can have a panoramic view of Argosaronikos Gulf and East Peloponnese’s mountains. Another beautiful trail is the one from Ntapia Square to Kasteli. Kasteli is Spetses’ old city, built on the Middle Age. As you reach the town, you’ll have the chance to see the old wall’s ruins. In Kasteli you can visit Agios Vasileios church, built where the city’s acropolis was, and Agia Triada church.

Kasteli

• You can participate to the celebration of Armata. It is being held in September and the visitors can revive the re-enactment of the famous battle of Spetses, during which a replica Turkish flagship is burnt in the island’s harbor with spectacular fireworks.

The weather in Poros

Poros is known as the “Bosporus of the Argosaronic Gulf” because it is separated from the coast of Peloponnese (Galatas village) by a channel that is only 350m wide at its narrowest point. Galatas lemon forest with lemon and orange trees, old watermills and streams, is just a 10-minute boat ride from Poros.

Galatas port, Peloponnese

When you land, you find quaint tavernas, yacht marinas, neoclassical buildings, a clock tower, pine-tree forests reaching the sea, serenity and relaxation.

Among the pine trees in the middle of Poros, you’ll come across the ruins of a Doric temple dedicated to Poseidon, built in the 6th century BC out of blue limestone. Demosthenes, the orator, arrived here as a fugitive and ended his life by drinking hemlock.

Temple of Poseidon, Poros

Poros has a ferry connection with the following ports: Piraeus, Aegina, Spetses, Hydra, Ermioni, Methana, Porto Heli.

There are a lot of beaches, organized or not, popular or less known, suitable for every taste: Askeli, Love Bay, Russian Naval Bay, Kanali, Monastiri, Plaka, Mikro & Megalo Neorio.

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Poros has a ferry connection with Methana (Peloponnese). The healing power of the Methana Volcanic Spa is famous since ancient times, when the Roman writer Pausanias visited the area. Some ancient baths can still be visited in the bay of Thiafi. Sfagia springs are located at the entrance to the city of Methana. They are open all year round, free of charge. The healing springs of Methana are therapeutic for many diseases such as: Arthropathy, spondylitis, rheumatism, fractures, gynecological diseases, infertility, respiratory system diseases, bronchitis, skin diseases.

The weather in Aegina

Aegina Island is the most popular weekend destination from Athens and definitely a place with endless beauty and interest, that can’t be explored in two days. The island is famous for its pistachios the “Aegina peanut” as well as other local products such as peanut butter, peanut nutella, peanut pastel sweets.

One of the most important places of interest in Aegina is the site of Palaiochora. It represents Aegina, during Byzantine times. This area is known as the “Mystras of Aegina” because it once had 565 churches, 28 out of them (with exceptional wall paintings) have withstood the ravages of time, just like the ruins of a medieval castle and two incredible monasteries.

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Aegina is also known for the Monastery of Agios Nektarios (1907) near the village of Kontos, one of the largest places of pilgrimage in the Orthodox Christian world. 

Do not miss the opportunity for a boat trip to magnificent  islet of Moni, opposite the harbor of Perdika. Board a boat and in 10 minutes you will find yourself amidst idyllic natural surroundings full of pine trees, deer, wild goats, peacocks, pheasants, squirrels and miniature horses waiting to be fed by you. Moni has wonderful crystal clear turquoise waters and due to its pine wood you can explore the island through trails.

Moni took its name from the Monastery of Virgin Mary Chrisoleontisa (in Aegina) because the island belongs to this Monastery. Monastery word in Greek, is called “Moni”. The Monastery of Virgin Mary Chrisoleontisa is dedicated to the Assumption of Virgin Mary (15th of August) and the island is honoring the Mother with cultural and traditional events during these days of summer. We call these musical events panigiria.

In Aegina, if you feel romantic, you can take a tour in a horse-drawn carriage and be transported to the old town, the imposing neoclassical buildings and other monuments.

Above the bay of Agia Marina, you can  admire the imposing architecture of the Temple of Aphea Αthina (490 BC) on top of a pine-covered hill with breathtaking views of the Argosaronic Gulf. Older than the Parthenon by 60 years, it is an elegant Doric structure with marble pediments from Paros island and impressive sculptures. When the sky is clear, it is possible to see as far as Cape Sounion and Piraeus.

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Some of the picturesque beaches of the island are: Perdika, Souvala, Agia Marina, Vagia.

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Aegina has a ferry connection with the following ports: Piraeus, Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Agistri, Methana.

The weather in Agistri

Agistri island is blessed with abundant greenery –  that it resembles a floating pine forest – and pristine beaches with exotic turquoise and emerald waters, this welcoming island is a haven of tranquillity for romantics and nature lovers.

This tiny island has four villages and it is  a wonderful gem of Argosaronic Gulf. In Agistri you can enjoy endless hours of walking, read a book under a pine-tree’s shadow, taste the locals’ dishes, along with a glass of ouzo and dream…

From Agistri you can participate on a boat trip to the exotic wonderful islands of Dorousa, Kira, Metopi and the rocky islet of Spalathronisi.

Metopi island

Kira island

Spalathronisi islet

If you stay in Agistri during July or August you can visit (on a boat excursion) the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, where popular performances and theatrical events take place.

Agistri has a ferry connection with the following ports: Piraeus, Aegina. 

Some of the beautiful coast of Agistri are: Mareza, Halikiada, Skala, Megalochori, Skliri. Dragonera and Aponisos are backed by lush nature and they offer the perfect ambiance for relaxing days at the beach!

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Crossing the island on foot from one edge to the other takes only 20 minutes and you will surely find many excuses to stop counting time. Furthermore, in the southern part of Agistri, to the west, lies the famous Lake of Agistri – also known as “Basin-Lekani salt lake” for the locals, ideal for trekking (you can follow the path that passes through this point on the map) or by bike, which is the most common way of transportation on Agistri.