Poros: recommendations, beaches and how to get there from Athens
A small green island facing the Peloponnese, about an hour from Piraeus: what to see, where to swim and how to get there.
- Fast boat from Piraeus: about 55 minutes. By car: via Galatas and a short boat.
- See: the clock tower, the hillside town, Zoodochos Pigi monastery.
- Best beach: Love Bay. Also Askeli and Neorio.
Poros works as a long day trip from Athens, but one night is easier. There is no kosher food on the island, so bring food from Athens.
Where is Poros?
Poros is a small island in the Saronic Gulf, right off the Peloponnese coast, facing the town of Galatas. According to Greeka, it is about an hour by boat from Piraeus. Poros is green, with pine forests, and works as a day trip from Athens or a quiet weekend.
How to get to Poros from Athens
- From Piraeus: a fast boat takes about 55 minutes, a conventional ferry up to about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- By car: drive to Galatas in the Peloponnese, then cross by small boat to Poros Town.
- Island hopping: you can combine Poros with Hydra and Spetses. See ferries from Athens to the nearby islands and Athens to Hydra.
Things to do in Poros: our recommendations
- Poros Town: a hillside town above the harbour, with a promenade, tavernas and shops.
- The clock tower: the island's landmark, visible from the boat. Walk up through the lanes for a view over the bay.
- Zoodochos Pigi monastery: on a hill above Askeli beach, among pine trees.
- The Temple of Poseidon: only remains survive in the centre of the island, but it was once the centre of an ancient league of cities.
- The lemon forest: on the Peloponnese shore, across from the harbour.
The best beaches in Poros
- Love Bay: a small cove with blue-green water. Greeka calls it the island's most beautiful beach.
- Askeli: a popular organised beach.
- Neorio: an organised beach close to town.
You reach the beaches by bus, car or small boats from the harbour.
Tips for Poros
- Day trip: possible, but it is a long day. One night gives you a quiet evening on the promenade.
- Kosher: there is no kosher food on the island. Bring food from Athens. See kosher food in Athens.
- Season: May to October. In winter some restaurants close.
More on the site: the Athens guide and day trips from Athens.
FAQ
How long does it take to get to Poros from Athens? About 55 minutes by fast boat from Piraeus, and up to about 2 hours 45 minutes by conventional ferry.
What is the most beautiful beach in Poros? Love Bay, a small cove with blue-green water.
Can you do Poros as a day trip? Yes, but it is a long day. One night on the island is easier.
What is there to see in Poros? The clock tower, the hillside town, Zoodochos Pigi monastery and the remains of the Temple of Poseidon.
