Spetses

Spetses, a charming Greek island known for its rich history, pine-covered hills, elegant architecture, and car-free streets.

📍 Overview

Spetses is a small, upscale island in the Saronic Gulf, about 2.5 hours from Athens by ferry. It’s famous for its role in the Greek War of Independence, maritime heritage, beautiful neoclassical buildings, and romantic atmosphere.

🚢 How to Get to Spetses

  • By Ferry: Daily ferries from Piraeus (Athens) take about 2–3 hours (via Flying Dolphins or high-speed catamarans).
  • By Car + Boat: Drive to Kosta (Peloponnese) and take a 10-minute water taxi or ferry.
  • No Cars Allowed: The town is car-free — transport is by foot, bicycle, horse carriage, or scooter.

🏨 Where to Stay

  • Luxury:
    • Poseidonion Grand Hotel – Iconic, historic hotel with seaside views.
    • Nissia Traditional Residences – Elegant suites in a perfect location.
  • Mid-Range:
    • Mare Monte Boutique Hotel – Stylish and central.
  • Budget:
    • Armata Boutique Hotel – Affordable yet charming.

🌟 Top Things to Do

🏛️ 1. Dapia (Main Port)

  • Lined with stylish cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.
  • Great for people-watching and evening strolls.

🏰 2. Bouboulina Museum

  • A mansion-turned-museum dedicated to the heroine Laskarina Bouboulina, a naval commander in the 1821 revolution.

⚓ 3. Spetses Museum (House of Hatzigiannis Mexis)

  • Dive into the island’s rich maritime and revolutionary history.

🏖️ 4. Beaches

  • Agia Marina – Lively beach with bars, ideal for young travelers.
  • Agioi Anargyroi – Large beach with caves nearby (Bekiris Cave).
  • Zogeria – Peaceful, pine-shaded beach with turquoise water.
  • Kaiki Beach – Organized with sunbeds, music, and drinks.

🛶 5. Boat Tour Around the Island

  • Visit hidden beaches, caves, and scenic spots only accessible by sea.

🐴 6. Horse Carriage Ride

  • A romantic way to see the old harbor and admire neoclassical mansions.

🚲 7. Cycling Around the Island

  • The 26 km perimeter road is ideal for a scenic bike ride.

🍽️ Where to Eat

  • Orloff – Upscale dining by the sea.
  • Tarsanas – Excellent seafood at the old harbor.
  • Liotrivi – Cozy restaurant housed in an old olive press.
  • Clock Eatery – Great brunch and casual fare.
  • To Pachni – A hidden local favorite for traditional Greek food.

🛍️ What to Buy

  • Local olive oil and honey.
  • Handmade sandals and jewelry.
  • Nautical-themed souvenirs.
  • Spetses-style almond sweets (amygdalota).

🎉 Best Time to Visit

  • May to October: Pleasant weather, with peak season in July–August.
  • September: Ideal month — warm sea, fewer crowds.
  • Don’t Miss: Armata Festival (first weekend of September) – Reenactment of a naval battle with fireworks, parades, and music.

🧳 Travel Tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Book accommodations early in summer.
  • ATMs are available, but bring some cash for small purchases.
  • Respect quiet hours (afternoon siesta and late-night peace).