What is it about Aegina/ Egina/ Aigina which attracts so many people to use their precious holiday to return here year after year?
Why do others dream about living on Aegina all year long and some actually take the plunge and do it by relocating here permanently? Curious?
Once you experience it, you will understand. In the meantime, let us paint a picture of our magical island.
History
Those visitors who are excited by learning about history will not be disappointed by what Aegina has to offer. The island has a special place in Greek mythology and history. The myth has it that the island took its name from the most beautiful of the twenty daughters of Asopos, the river god, who eloped with Zeus to the then deserted island.
In historical terms, there is evidence that the island was inhabited from as early as 3500 B.C. The island enjoyed strong economic and social growth between around 900 B.C. and 480 B.C., including minting the first coins anywhere in Greece during the 7th. Century B.C.
In more modern times, Aegina was briefly the first ‘capital’ of modern Greece from 1827 – 1829.
Aegina island
Location
Our location in the Argo-Saronic gulf is an immediate attraction. Aegina is close to the port of Pireaus on the mainland. Visitors travel by ferry or flying dolphin, but the journey is short (between 40 and 80 minutes) and an enjoyable part of your holiday experience. Enter the bustling port of Aegina town and soak up the view: a moon crescent harbour with fishing boats, fruit filled caiques, and glamorous yachts jostling for position. Once on Aegina you can enjoy island life but easily leave for day trips to Athens, other islands, and the Peloponnese.
Ideal for the independent traveller
Arguably one of the main attractions of Aegina is that it is a real living and working island. Thankfully not a victim of mass tourism, Aegina is the perfect destination for the independent traveller who yearns to experience some reality of the country he is visiting. Those who are well travelled in Greece will note that Aegina is not as ‘manicured’ as some islands popular with foreign tourists. It hosts mainly Greek weekend visitors. This simply adds to the charm. Populair sites to visit are: the temple of Aphaia and the cathedral of Agios Nektarios.
Food and drink
One of the joys of travelling is to experience local food and drink. If you are looking for one of the last remaining places on earth without a McDonald’s fastfood restaurant then come to Aegina island! Unlike many other Greek holiday destinations you will be glad to note the absence of bill-boards advertising ‘full English breakfast’ or ‘chicken schnitzel’. Snack on fresh cheese and spinach pastries from the bakery and fruit from the caiques. A true delight is ouzo with mezes or a cold beer in the sunny afternoon. Finally, finish your day as you started by doing as the Greeks do and enjoy a late dinner in one of the fantastic tavernas. Salad, fresh fish, grilled meat….
Beaches
Of course, many people choose to come to Greece for summer holidays to experience the beach and swimming in the sea. Again, Aegina will not disappoint. There are several nice sandy beaches on the island from which you can delight in the clean and crystal clear waters. Beach life can be simply enjoyed by finding a quiet spot for you, your towel and book. Otherwise, grab a bed with umbrella somewhere more organised where drinks and snacks can be delivered to you whilst you recline.
Aegina Fistiki Fest
The annual Aegina Fistiki Fest takes place during the second half of September. The goal of the Fest is to promote the world famous Aegina Pistachio Nut - The Fistiki. You can visit exhibitions, taste food made with pistachios, buy all kinds of products that have to do with pistachios, visit live concerts and much more. www.aeginafistikifest.gr
When to visit
We recommend Aegina to you out of the holiday season as well. Spring and autumn are excellent times of the year to visit. The weather is sunny, warm and energising. Indeed, Aegina is reputed to have the mildest climate in Greece. Pull on your comfy shoes and explore our natural landscapes. There is some excellent walking to be had on Aegina; ancient abandoned villages on hillsides; awe the inspiring olive tree grove of Eliones; clamber to the top of Mount Oros with its fantastic sea views; pistachio tree orchards (Aegina’s most famous export)
Links
Aegina Promo Video
Aegina's Ultimate Internet Guide
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