Aegina for everyone
Although relatively small in size, Aegina, the most popular island of the Saronic Gulf, leaves no visitor complaining. So Aegina is for everyone!
Transition
Regular ferries and flying dolphins depart from the port of Piraeus. The journey takes one hour and 35 minutes respectively, depending on the means you choose.
Travel on the island
In Aegina you can move with your own vehicle, take taxis or the line buses that run regularly. Alternatively, you can tour the island by bike.
Civilization
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Aegina at the archaeological site of Kolona. It is the first "National Museum" of Greece, whose founder was Ioannis Kapodistrias with exhibits from prehistoric times to Roman times. You can also make a pass from the Historical and Folklore Museum, in a neoclassical building of 1828 in the city center. This represents the traditional Aegean houses. The Pistachio Festival at the beginning of September is of great cultural interest every year.
History
Start from the Temple of Aphaia which is dedicated to the homonymous deity of antiquity. It is located in the northeast of the island above Agia Marina. This is one of the most famous archeological sites in Greece. It is a great opportunity for an excursion, as the location is on a pine-covered hill that is flooded with aromas of nature. Do not leave the island without seeing Paleochora with its 365 churches. Finally, the archeological site of Kolona, the historic hill that was the Acropolis of the island, is worth your visit and can compensate you with a swim on its beach.
Religion
The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada with the church of Agios Nektarios is one of the top attractions of religious interest. The miraculous patron and protector of the island is Saint Dionysios. Pass by the nunnery of Agia Aikaterini which is located before the entrance of the monastery of Agios Nektarios. Finally, a visit to the Monastery of Panagia Chrysoleontissa, the patron saint of the island, can complete a first tour of the places of religious interest of Aegina.
Nature
The "Paths of Culture" program marks a series of routes for locals and visitors to discover the landscape and unspoiled nature. Take the tour of Mount Hellaniou, follow the route Sfentouri-Eleonas, wander circularly of the Monastery of Chrysoleontissa or follow any other route you want to spend a day in the pure oxygen. Aegina, however, has another hidden ace for nature lovers. The island of Moni is located just ten minutes by boat from the cape of Perdika. It is an uninhabited island, with huge geophysical interest and rich fauna. There you can enjoy your hike among the wild animals and return in the evening to Aegina.
Sports
The road race "Ioannis Kapodistrias" is an institution and takes place every year in January. The main route is 10 km. The starting and finishing point is the Statue of Ioannis Kapodistrias. There is also a 5 km route for runners and walkers, while there are also children's races for infants and older children.
Gastronomy
Pistachio dominates the Aegean cuisine: Local pastries and jams, cookies, rusks, syrups, cookies, chocolate chip cookies, pastels, pistachios and more. Pistachio is also included in the dishes of traditional cuisine. The gastronomic wealth of Aegina also includes mountain greens, such as kalakarbouna, zohoi, cardamides and pourychia, cigarettes, a distillate of milk butter and goat cheese. Katsoula is a fish of the Saronic Gulf that is found mainly in Aegina. Finally, you will find a small local production of olive oil and the Aegean retsina, the Rhodes and the Sabbatians.
Tags: Aegina, Family, Religious Tourism, Pistachio
