AgistriArgo-Saronic Islands · Greece

All About Agistri

Agistri is an unassuming little island just one hour away from Athens that attracts both day-trippers, island-hoppers, and weekend escapists. Its proximity to the capital city and other islands in the Saronic Gulf such as Poros, Aegina, Spetses, and Hydra makes it an adorable destination to explore. Taking a ferry to Agistri is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets.

The pine-covered island exudes a natural beauty that will lull you into a state of total relaxation, with glistening beaches, traditional taverns, and minuscule villages. You will be amazed at its untouched landscape and secluded beaches, as well as the choice of activities on the island such as hiking, diving, and even horse riding. Known as ‘Kekrifalia’ or ‘Embellished Head’ in ancient times and even mentioned in Homer’s The Iliad, Agistri is truly a shimmering jewel just a stone’s throw away from Athens.
 

Routes and Ferries to Agistri

You can book your ferry tickets to Agistri with Ferryscanner and leave from the port of Piraeus, with Aegean Flying Dolphins or Blue Star Ferries making the trip in just one hour. The hydrofoil takes you to the small island port of Megalochori (Myli), while the regular ferries take approximately 1.5 hours and sail to the port of Skala. Ferries also regularly cross over to Agistri from the surrounding islands of Aegina, Poros, and the coastal town of Methana on a daily basis.

If you are arriving at Athens International Airport, the easiest way to reach the port of Piraeus is by shuttle bus, with the X96 leaving around every 20 minutes during the day and at half-hour intervals at night. When arriving with ferry tickets to Agistri, make your way to Gate E8, which is where the ferries and hydrofoils depart for the Argo-Saronic Islands. You can also take a taxi from the airport. Although the trip is much quicker than with the bus, it can be quite expensive.

Alternatively, trains run from the airport to Piraeus and take about 60 minutes. The blue line will take you to Monastiraki in the city center where you need to change to the suburban green line to the port, which is just a five-minute walk from the train station in Piraeus.
 

Ports of Agistri

There are two small ports on Agistri within close proximity to each other that are used by boats and ferries. If you travel from Piraeus by ferry boat, it will dock at Skala, while the faster flying dolphins arrive at Megalochori, or Myli, as it is also known.

Megalochori is actually the administrative capital of the island and you will find many tourist shops, hotels, and taverns here, as well as supermarkets, bakeries, retail shops, a bank, a pharmacy, and a regional health center. There are also a number of tourist shops, hotels, and taverns at Skala for you to discover. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Agistri.
 

Capital & Villages

Megalochori or Myli, is actually no more than a small village and its population is estimated at around 560 permanent residents. A naval base in ancient times, it is a natural port that is now used as the docking area for the flying dolphins all year round, as well as serving as a refueling point for boats and yachts.

There is also a small beach of pebbles and sand with emerald green waters just perfect for swimming. The town’s quaint stone-built houses with terracotta rooftops and paved alleys give you a lovely retro feel as you wander around and you will definitely come across the landmark windmill from 1812 on your way.

Skala

Skala, on the northeastern coast, is also a natural port that serves the ferry-boats arriving from Piraeus or Aegina and is only 1 kilometer from Megalochori. It’s a busy little settlement with hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars catering to visitors, as well as offering lively nightlife in the form of a few clubs.

Skala has a wonderful family beach with calm, shallow shores, making it ideal for a day of relaxation with children, while the blue-domed, white-washed church of Agioi Anargyroi dominates the town.

Limenaria

Limenaria village lies 5km northeast of Megalochori and the ten-minute drive there affords stunning panoramic views of the nearby islands. Resting in a tranquil valley, the settlement has retained all of its traditional charisma, with the small church of Agia Kyriaki being a focal point for village life.

Taste some of the best food on the island at the local taverna after a leisurely stroll around this idyllic hamlet and check out the old school before heading to the small bay of Mareza, known for its deep blue waters.

Metochi

Get a bird’s-eye view of Agistri from the village of Metochi, which sits on a slope between Megalochori and Skala. Although not accessible by public transport, it is worth taking a trip there either on foot or by taxi to enjoy its winding streets lined by aromatic pine trees. A residential area with pretty, traditional houses, Metochi is the perfect place to set off for some hiking before tucking into the delicious dishes served in its family-run tavern. It also boasts stunning views across the Saronic Gulf to Aegina, the Peloponnese, and neighboring islands.
 

Best Beaches

Agistri is home to a handful of small beaches which each have their own charm. From sandy bays to more secluded coves around the coastline, you can opt for family-friendly organized beaches or more off-the-beaten-track sunspots, all offering unparalleled pristine waters.

Chalikiada Beach

You will find the pebbled beach of Chalikiada near Limenaria village or by driving through the pine forest from Skliri. Access to the beach is difficult as it requires climbing a cliff so its secluded nature has also made it a favorite with nudists. The deep blue waters make a stunning contrast with the surrounding greenery, creating a sense of pure paradise.

Aponisos Beach

Aponisos beach is actually a tiny island on the west coast of Agistri reached by a rocky causeway close to Limenaria. Possibly one of the most beautiful swimming spots on the island, it is surrounded by greenery with incredibly clear water. Enjoy some delightful seafood delicacies accompanied by ouzo on the rocks in the waterfront tavern as you watch the small yachts sailing in and out of this heavenly haven.

Dragonera Beach

Take the coastal road after Megalochori to Dragonera beach as you pass through a dense pine forest. The brightness of its emerald waters is truly breathtaking. Escape the busy bars of the main town and succumb to the laid-back vibes of this unspoiled beach, where a small bar playing chillout music provides the perfect background noise as you soak up the misty views of tiny distant islands on the horizon.

Skliri Beach

Skliri beach boasts an impressive location which can be quite steep and rocky to get to, making it ideal for those seeking a small adventure. It is very close to Skala so a full range of facilities is available nearby although the beach itself has retained its peaceful aura and offers crystalline waters, just perfect for scuba-diving.
 

Transportation Around Agistri

Transportation around this small island is fairly straightforward, with the local bus service carrying out daily routes from Skala to Megalochori, Aponiso, Dragonera, and Limenaria. If you prefer to follow your own itinerary, you can rent a car or motorbike, while taxis are also available to get you to your preferred destination. Taking a ferry to Agistri is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare ferry companies and book ferry tickets.

Enjoy a fun ride on Agistri’s tourist train, which departs from Skala, or take one of the regular water taxis that will drop you off at the beach of your choice.