The See Greece guide to the island of Poros with a brief history and travel information on how to get there by ferry or by air and what to see and do.
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, the picturesque island of Poros is a tranquil paradise just a short distance from Athens. With its lush pine forests, charming neoclassical architecture, and crystal-clear waters, Poros offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this guide will help you discover everything this enchanting island has to offer.
Where is Poros Located?
Poros is part of the Saronic Islands, located in the southern part of the Saronic Gulf, between the Peloponnese peninsula and mainland Attica. Despite its small size (covering just 31 square kilometers), Poros is easily accessible from Athens, making it a popular weekend escape for locals and tourists alike.
The island is actually made up of two smaller islands connected by a narrow bridge: Sferia, a volcanic rock formation where the main town is located, and Kalavria, a larger, greener area filled with pine forests and secluded beaches.
A Brief History of Poros
Poros has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The island was originally called Kalavria and was considered sacred to the god Poseidon. According to mythology, it was here that Theseus, the legendary king of Athens, sought refuge.
In the 6th century BC, the island became home to an important sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon, which served as a religious and political center for the surrounding region. During the Byzantine era, Poros was used as a strategic naval base, and later, during the Greek War of Independence in the 19th century, it played a crucial role as a harbor for the Greek fleet.
Today, Poros retains its maritime charm, with a bustling waterfront, historic landmarks, and a relaxed island atmosphere.
What to See and Do on Poros
1. Explore Poros Town
The island’s main town is a postcard-perfect destination with pastel-colored houses, narrow cobbled streets, and a lively waterfront lined with tavernas and cafes. Highlights include:
– The Clock Tower – A landmark offering panoramic views of the town and the sea.
– The Archaeological Museum – Showcasing artifacts from the Temple of Poseidon and other ancient sites.
– The Lemon Forest (Lemonodasos) – A vast grove of lemon trees located on the mainland, a brief boat ride away, perfect for a scenic stroll and a glass of fresh lemonade.
2. Visit the Temple of Poseidon
Located in Kalavria, the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon date back to the 6th century BC. This was once a major religious site where city-states formed alliances. Though only a few columns remain, the site offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Relax on Poros’ Best Beaches
Poros boasts several beautiful beaches, ranging from organized resorts to secluded coves:
– Love Bay (Kanali Beach) – A romantic, sandy beach with calm waters.
– Russian Bay – A historic beach with crystal-clear waters, named after a Russian naval base established here in the 19th century.
– Neorion Beach – A family-friendly beach with sunbeds and watersports.
– Askeli Beach – A long sandy beach with beach bars and tavernas.
4. Discover the Poros Naval Base & Historical Sites
Poros has strong ties to Greece’s maritime history. Key sites include:
– The Russian Dockyard – Built in the 1830s, this historic shipyard is an intriguing relic of Poros’ naval past.
– The Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi – A serene 18th-century monastery surrounded by cypress trees, offering breathtaking views.
5. Take a Boat Trip to Nearby Islands
Poros is an excellent base for exploring other Saronic Islands like Aegina, Hydra, and Spetses. Day trips by boat are readily available, allowing you to experience more of Greece’s island beauty.
6. Enjoy Water Sports & Outdoor Activities
From kayaking and paddleboarding to hiking through pine forests, Poros is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The island’s trails lead to hidden beaches and scenic viewpoints.
7. Experience Poros’ Nightlife & Cuisine
While Poros is quieter than Mykonos or Santorini, it has a vibrant nightlife scene with beach bars and live music. Don’t miss trying local specialties like:
– Fresh seafood (grilled octopus, calamari)
– Souvlaki & gyros
– Local wines & ouzo
How to Get to Poros
By Ferry
The most common way to reach Poros is by ferry from Piraeus (Athens’ main port). Ferries run daily, with multiple departures, and the journey takes about 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of vessel (high-speed or conventional).
– Hellenic Seaways & Saronic Ferries operate regular routes.
– Tickets cost between €15-€35 one-way.
You can also reach Poros from other Saronic Islands (Hydra, Spetses, Aegina) or from the Peloponnese (Galatas, just a 5-minute boat ride away).
By Air
Since Poros doesn’t have its own airport, the closest option is Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). From here, take a taxi, bus or the metro to Piraeus port (about 1 hour) and then a ferry to Poros.
By Car & Boat
If driving from Athens, head to Galatas (a coastal town opposite Poros) and take a 5-minute ferry ride (costs around €2 per person).
Final Tips for Visiting Poros
– Best Time to Visit: May-June & September-October (fewer crowds, pleasant weather).
– Getting Around: Rent a scooter, ATV, or bicycle to explore the island easily.
– Day Trips: Consider visiting nearby Hydra or the ancient theater of Epidaurus.
