While Europeans typically flock to islands in Greece like Santorini and Mykonos, Greeks opt for a relaxing stay on Agistri.

The tiny Aegean island, with a population of just 1,131 inhabitants, has developed into one of the most popular weekend getaways for Greeks. Less than an hour away from Athens, it is particularly loved among those in the capital. 

However, it is not just the short distance that draws Greeks to the beautiful island, which remains largely a hidden gem for those outside Greece.

Agistri is one of the Saronic group of islands, along with Poros, Aegina, Spetses, and Hydra, and many visitors take the chance to use it as a base for island-hopping. 

There are only three villages on the island – Milos, Skala and Limenaria. Many holidaymakers choose to set up camp in Skala, home to many of the island’s hotels as well as the main port. Meanwhile, the majority of the locals stick to Milos, a short 20-minute walk away. 

Visitors walking along the coastal road of Agistri will find a selection of restaurants, cafes, beach bars, and traditional taverns, with fresh fish and seafood, along with local delicacies on offer.

The small island is also among Greece’s greenest. Agistri is blanketed in pine trees, providing some shade along the popular hiking trails. It is an ideal destination for tourists who want to hike through picturesque scenes before cooling off in the water. 

Agistri is also famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, and there are countless beaches for visitors to choose from.

This includes Aponissos, which features a huge natural pool, and Dragonera on the western coast, the beaches of Megalochori and Skala in the north, Mariza in the south, and Skliri and Halikiada in the east.

There is also a reliable bus network to the beaches on the island, with regular buses from Skala to Dragonera and Aponissos, while Halikiada is only a short walk away from Skala.

Many Greeks who holiday on the island take the chance to try out the outdoor sports on offer also to foreign tourists, including hiking, cycling, sailing, kayaking or horse riding.