Spetses In a Nutshell

A classy island.. one of the closest to Athens..ideal for a short visit or a longer stay. Spetses combines well with Hydra or the Peloponnese

About Spetses

This cosmopolitan island near Athens will make you want to return again and again. It’s an ideal destination for a quick retreat all year round and never fails to make you feel special – whether you are enjoying a leisurely coffee in Dapia with a view of Kosta and Porto Heli on the mainland opposite or taking a romantic stroll along the Old Harbour.

Horse-drawn carriages, bicycle and walking will be your only modes of transport - all the better to enjoy the well-kept captains’ mansions below Agios Nikolaos Monastery, the boatyards and Bouboulina’s Museum. And of course the ambience of the legendary Poseidonian Hotel near the port, which has hosted royalty, politicians and dignitaries. Spetses has long been a favourite escape for high society, as reflected in the smart cafes, art stores and stylish boutiques.

Since the use of cars is restricted, horse and carriage or walking remain the preferred means of getting around. So be sure to take a romantic evening ride in any of the horse and buggies that operate on the island, passing the picturesque Old Harbour, Agios Nikolaos and back to the main town, Dapia.
It's easy to spend a day circumnavigating the island (23km) by bike or e-bike (approx. 25 euros rental) and stopping off for a swim at one of the two beaches on the opposite side before having a late lunch at the marina.

Spetses attracts wealthy Athenians so there’s no end to the festivities in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of the Old Harbour. Candlelit tables, jetties and romantic terraces, gourmet dining and fine wine, soft music and lively conversation. You get the scene. And as the evening progresses, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.

Thousands of visitors descend upon the island to experience the annual Armata – a week-long celebration in September in honour of the naval victories of Spetses, Hydra and Psara against the Turks in 1822. In addition to the impressive fireworks and religious rituals, it’s a week filled to the brim with cultural happenings, feasting and festivities.

Some of the most picturesque bays, pebble and sand beaches you could visit during your holidays in Spetses are Agioi Anargiri, Agia Paraskevi, Zogeria, Vrelos, Ksilokeriza and more.
Notable sights in Spetses are Bouboulina Museum, Spetses Museum, the Mansion of Hatzigianni Meksi, Anargyrios - Korgalenios School, the Abbey of Saint Pantes, the Lighthouse of Spetses with the church of Panagia Armata, the cave of Bekiri and many other remarkable attractions giving astonishing views.

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN SPETSES

Cycle around the island by E-Bike
September Armata naval Festival
Day trip to Hydra

Getting to Spetses

Fly to Athens - TRANSFER BY FERRY
Early flights may offer same day ferry connection
Approx. 2.5hr from Piraeus by hydrofoil