Spetses

Spetses is an affluent historical island situated near the eastern Peloponnese, boasting an aristocratic flair defined by its neoclassical sea-captain mansions. The main town, Dapia, is the center of island life, where horse-drawn carriages replace cars, which are heavily restricted on the island. The Old Harbor (Palaio Limani) area is famous for its traditional wooden boatyards, high-end restaurants, and lively nightlife. The island played a pivotal role during the 1821 War of Independence, most notably under the command of local heroine Laskarina Bouboulina. Visitors can easily access a variety of beautiful beaches either by water taxi, bicycle, or bus. Near the town, Agios Mamas and Kaiki Beach offer convenience, sunbeds, and beach bars. Further along the coastline, Agia Paraskevi and Agioi Anargyroi are impressive pine-fringed bays with crystal waters, the latter home to the famous Bekiris Cave. Other notable swimming spots include Vrellos, Paradise Beach, Xylokeriza, Kamares, Ligoneri, Kouzounos, and Megali Zogeria. The scent of pine combined with the sea breeze characterizes these beaches. Gastronomy in Spetses blends fresh Aegean seafood with refined culinary techniques, and a trip is incomplete without tasting the local almond sweets called 'amigdalota'. The island hosts significant cultural and sporting events annually, such as the Armata festival in September, which commemorates a historic naval battle with impressive fireworks, and the Spetses Mini Marathon. Spetses is highly accessible from the port of Piraeus or via water taxi from the Peloponnesian coast of Kosta.

Nearby cities

South Athens

The Athens Riviera offers vibrant beaches and elegant marinas just a short distance from the historic city center.

Megara

An ancient city west of Athens, famous in antiquity for its colonies and its school of philosophy.

Keratea

A charming town in East Attica, known for its picturesque coastline and ancient history.

Anavissos

A prominent coastal town on the Athens Riviera, famous for its salt pans, windsurfing beaches, and seafood tavernas.

Vilia

A picturesque town offering a blend of mountain charm and access to the stunning beaches of the Corinthian Gulf.

Hydra

Hydra is a car-free island in the Saronic Gulf, characterized by its well-preserved stone architecture and rocky coves.

Angistri

A beautiful, pine-covered island in the Saronic Gulf known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere.

Kythira

Kythira is a mythical island between the Peloponnese and Crete, known as the birthplace of Aphrodite and for its Venetian castles.

Spetses Town

Spetses Town is the main town of the island of Spetses.

Porto Heli

An upscale port town in Argolis, famous for luxury villas, yachts, and crystal-clear bays.

Kilada

Kilada is a picturesque fishing village in the Peloponnese, renowned for its traditional boatyards and fresh seafood.

Pragmateftis

A traditional mountain village in the Peloponnese overlooking the sparkling Myrtoan Sea.

Tyros Beach

Tyros Beach is a deeply historic and scenic coastal town in the Peloponnese, known for its pristine waters and authentic Greek culture.

Poulithra

Poulithra is a picturesque coastal village in the Peloponnese, offering a perfect blend of lush mountains, traditional architecture, and …

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Karnezeika

Karnezeika is a tranquil coastal area in the Argolis region of the Peloponnese, Greece.

History & landmarks

Nafplio

The first capital of modern Greece, featuring elegant Venetian architecture and imposing fortresses by the Argolic Gulf.

Bourtzi Castle

A Venetian castle located on the islet of Agioi Theodoroi in the harbor of Nafplio.

More places

Theater of Epidaurus

This ancient theater is famous for its perfect acoustics and symmetrical design.

Mount Parnon

Mount Parnon extends across the eastern Peloponnese between Laconia and Arcadia.

Tiryns

This Mycenaean hill fort is famous for its massive walls of multi-ton stones, known as Cyclopean walls.