If you’re planning a quick island break from Athens right now, Aegina and Agistri are the two Saronic go-tos for short ferry rides, easy logistics, and a slower pace than the city. I’ve stayed long enough on Aegina to learn what actually stays open beyond peak season, how ferry timings shift by boat type and port, and what each island is realistically best for when you only have a day or two.
This guide compares Aegina vs Agistri by ferry time, atmosphere, beaches, transport, and what you can reasonably fit into your trip—so you can pick the island that matches your priorities without overplanning.
Things to know before you choose
- Ferries depart from Piraeus (Athens), and sailing times vary depending on whether they use high-speed or conventional boats.
- Aegina has multiple ports (Aegina Town, Souvala, Agia Marina), which can change your arrival time and where you’ll stay.
- Agistri usually docks at Skala and/or Myli (Megalochori); choose the port that matches your accommodations.
- Winter timetables are reduced, and sailings can be cancelled during bad weather.
- Beach umbrellas/sunbeds are mostly seasonal (late spring to early autumn).
Early verdict: Choose Aegina if you want one of the closest Saronic islands to Athens with year-round ferries, historical sites, and the widest choice of restaurants and services; choose Agistri if you want a quieter, greener island with very light traffic, fewer visitors, and a pure beach-and-nature focus.
| Category | Aegina | Agistri |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Athens | One of the closest Saronic islands to Athens, around 40–85 minutes by ferry from Piraeus. | Also very close to Athens, reached by direct ferries from Piraeus in roughly 55–100 minutes (or via Aegina). |
| Ferry Frequency | Multiple daily ferries year-round (timetables are reduced in winter and during bad weather). | Regular ferries year-round (timetables are reduced in winter and during bad weather). |
| Atmosphere | Relaxed but lively, with a working island feel and local weekend crowds. | Very quiet and slow-paced, with a focus on rest and nature. |
| Beaches | Family-friendly beaches with sand or pebbles and easy access. | Small, clear-water beaches surrounded by pine forest. |
| Restaurants & Facilities | Wide choice of tavernas, cafes, shops, and services. | Limited but good tavernas and beach cafes, fewer services overall. |
| Traffic & Transport | Cars and scooters are present, easy to get around. | Very light traffic (some cars/scooters), and the main areas are easy to cover on foot or by bike. |
| Best For | Short breaks, day trips, history lovers, and travelers wanting convenience. | Couples, slow travel, swimming, and visitors seeking minimal noise. |
If you’re in Athens and want a quick escape from the city, you can do so very easily. The Saronic Gulf Islands are close to the capital and can be reached by ferry from Piraeus in 30–55 minutes, depending on the route and vessel type.
You can even do a day trip—this guide shows you how to choose the best island for your timeframe.
Keep reading below for our in-depth analysis on weighing up Aegina vs. Agistri.
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Aegina: Best For Day Trips, History, And Dining
Conclusion: Aegina wins for convenience, variety, and year-round accessibility from Athens.
Aegina is one of the closest islands to Athens, and the ferry typically takes about 40–85 minutes from Piraeus, with year-round service. It’s a popular destination for local tourists seeking a day at the beach, and its main town is the island’s namesake – Aegina.
Aegina town is relatively small, and it’s easy to walk around on your own steam. There are winding cobbled streets and plenty of small cafes and tavernas to sit and watch the world go by.
Other notable points of interest are the Hill of Kolona and its museum, the Doric Temple of Apollo, and the Markellos Tower. Beaches on Aegina range from organized sandy stretches to pebbly coves, with clear water and plenty of family-friendly swimming spots.
The island is also famous for cycling, with several trails available. Be sure to visit the beach town of Agia Marina for one of Aegina’s best-known sandy beaches and views across to the mainland.
Aegina wins for convenience, variety, and year-round accessibility from Athens. If you’re visiting then, you don’t need to base yourself there entirely; a stay in Aegina is a great option and available year-round.
Agistri: Best For Quiet Beaches And Pine Forest Swims
Conclusion: Agistri wins for silence, greenery, and a low-traffic island experience.
Agistri is the quieter alternative to Aegina, prioritizing nature and minimal development, and is about 10–25 minutes from Aegina by ferry, depending on the boat and port. As soon as you see the island, you’ll notice that it’s very green, covered in deliciously-scented pine trees.
Ferries arrive at Skala and/or Myli (Megalochori), where you’ll find small beaches and waterfront cafés; sun loungers and parasols are typically seasonal (mainly late spring to early autumn). This is the ideal spot for those seeking complete rest and relaxation.
Because Agistri is smaller and tends to attract fewer visitors than Aegina, it usually feels quieter—and that’s not a bad thing.
Agistri has very light traffic compared with Athens, which is a real break from the norm. Be sure to visit the village of Milos, with its typically Greek architecture and delicious food at the many tavernas – try the seafood!
Agistri is also known for naturism at Chalikiada (Halikiada) Beach.
Aegina Vs Agistri: Which Island Fits Your Trip Style?
There is a clear use-case winner for each island.
Both islands are an antidote to Athens; however, if you want very light traffic and very little noise, then Agistri wins very slightly. Yet Aegina has more facilities and restaurants.
Neither island is known for a big party scene, which makes them both laid-back places to visit in any season. Ferries run between these islands and Piraeus all year round, with reduced winter timetables and occasional last-minute cancellations during bad weather.
Which island is better for a short trip from Athens, Aegina or Agistri?
Aegina is better for a short trip from Athens because it has more frequent ferries, more attractions, and full services year-round.
Is Agistri quieter than Aegina?
Yes, Agistri is significantly quieter than Aegina due to fewer visitors, very light traffic, and limited development.
Can you visit Agistri as a day trip from Athens?
Yes, Agistri can be visited as a day trip from Athens on direct ferries (or via Aegina), but it’s calmer and more rewarding with an overnight stay.
Does Aegina have more things to do than Agistri?
Yes, Aegina has more historical sites, towns, restaurants, and activities than Agistri.
Which island is better for beaches, Aegina or Agistri?
Agistri is better for swimming and nature-backed beaches, while Aegina offers more accessible family-friendly beaches.
Is there traffic on Agistri?
Agistri has very light traffic; many visitors walk or cycle in the main areas, and scooters are common.
Can you stay on Aegina year-round?
Yes, Aegina operates year-round, with permanent residents, winter ferry service, and open services.
Which island should I choose if I want restaurants and nightlife?
Aegina is the better choice for dining variety and evening atmosphere, although neither island has a party scene.
Aegina is the better base and day-trip island from Athens, while Agistri is the better choice for travelers who want maximum quiet and minimal movement.
How long would it take to walk or bicycle from Aegina Town to Agia Marina on Aegina? How long would it take to ride a bike all the way around the island near the shore (as much as that is possible, I mean)? And same question between the towns and around near the shore of Agistri?
Sorry, we have no clue. I suggest you as Google, maybe a bike blog has done that.