InterContinental Hotels & Resorts

If you’re travelling to Athens and want to stray a bit off the tourist path, catch a “hydrofoil” ferry over to Aegina Island. In less than an hour’s boat ride, you’ll experience local life, sample the local Mediterranean fare, stumble unto ancient ruins, and of course, hit the beach.

Afea Athena Sanctuary
See the ancient sights and avoid the crowds by heading over to the Afea Athena Sanctuary.

Sandy Beaches
Walk in any direction on Aegina, you’re bound to find white sand and crystal-blue waters lined with eucalyptus trees. The stretches of beach that are most popular with visitors to the island are Aiginitissa, Marathonas, and Sarpa.

Restaurants
For such a small island, the array of restaurants is astonishing. Stop by Kiriakakis for some fresh-caught fish, crisp salads, and the perfect view of the Saronic Gulf. Don’t forget to enjoy dinner late, just as the locals do.

Although many of Athen’s restaurateurs speak very good English, you’ll find a more authentic dining experience if you know the ingredients of a dish and can order in Greek. Here’s the scoop in some local fare:

Tzatziki is a delicious spread comprised of yogurt, cucumber and garlic, and salt.

Try Tiro Salata and you’ll find a flavourful, fresh, and sometimes spicy cheese salad.

Psito is a famed Greek lamb dishes: roasted leg which is generally served with potatoes.

For a great pork dish, have a taste of Kontosouvli, which is choice cuts roasted rotisserie-style.

Midia is fresh mussels steamed in white wine and generally served with lemon.

Rega is not to be missed, but is an acquired taste: strong smoked herring drenched in olive oil.