Spetses Greece: A 2024 guide with 17 memorable activities

Last Updated on June 9, 2024 by Tia

Things of visiting Spetses Greece this year? Then you are in the right place!

From the moment you step off the ferry and onto its shores, you’ll be enchanted by the island’s timeless beauty and laid-back vibe.

Picture cobblestone streets lined with bougainvillea-clad villas, horse-drawn carriages trotting along the waterfront, and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting from local bakeries. That is the island of Spetses, Greece.

Spetses History

Known as Isola di Spezie under Venetian rule and Pityoussa (pine-clad) in ancient times, Spetses is a picturesque, car-free island with unique architecture, naval history, and culture.

The island boasts a rich and storied history that spans centuries. Originally inhabited by the ancient Greeks, Spetses played a significant role in maritime trade and naval warfare.

During the Byzantine era, the island flourished as a center of commerce and culture, attracting merchants and artisans from across the Mediterranean. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Spetses became known for its formidable fleet of merchant ships and naval prowess, earning it the nickname “Island of Captains.”

The island’s residents played a pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule, with notable figures such as Laskarina Bouboulina and Andreas Miaoulis leading the charge for freedom.

Today, Spetses remains a testament to its rich heritage, with its historic mansions, museums, and monuments preserving the island’s illustrious past for future generations to admire and appreciate.

The Best things to do in Spetses, Greece

Nestled in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, Spetses beckons travelers with its idyllic landscapes and myriad of experiences.

So pack your bags, slip on your sandals, and I’ll take care of the rest! A Greek island paradise awaits, and I have much to tell you!

So without further ado, here’s a rundown of the 17 best things to do in Spetses, Greece

1. Explore the Historic Town

Begin your Spetses Greece adventure by wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets of the historic town.

Admire the neoclassical architecture, visit charming boutiques and art galleries, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the bustling harbor.

2. Visit Bouboulina’s Museum

Dive into the island’s rich maritime history with a visit to Bouboulina’s Mansion.

This iconic landmark, once home to the legendary Greek heroine, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past through its well-preserved artifacts and exhibits.

3. Cruise Around the Island

Hop aboard a traditional kaiki boat and set sail for a leisurely cruise around Spetses Greece. You can visit locations like Porto Heli, Ermioni, or even Monemvasia.

The argolic and laconic Peloponnese surrounds Spetses, with endless excursion opportunities!

Marvel at the rugged coastline, hidden coves, and secluded beaches as you explore the island’s pristine shores from the water.

4. Indulge in Watersports

For thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts, Spetses offers a variety of watersports activities to enjoy.

From snorkeling and scuba diving to jet skiing and paddleboarding, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping adventures to be had.

5. Attend the Armata Festival

Experience the island’s vibrant culture and traditions by attending the annual Armata Festival.

Held in September, this lively event commemorates the historic naval battle of Spetses with colorful parades, fireworks, and traditional music and dance performances.

Hundreds of people gather to witness the spectacle, and it is a real feast for the eyes!

6. Visit Restaurants in Spetses

Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Spetses Greece with a culinary journey through the island’s diverse gastronomic scene.

Sample fresh seafood dishes, traditional Greek mezes, and homemade desserts at the island’s cozy tavernas and seaside restaurants.

Restaurants in Spetses recommendations:

• Mourayo Spetses. Open all day long, for food, drinks, and excellent nightlife.
• To nero tis agapis. Family taverna serving fresh fish caught by the family and produce from their garden.
• Tarsanas. Exceptional Seafood tavern
• On the Verandah (Posidonion Hotel) – For exquisite Fine dining and wine.
• Patralis – famous taverna for both fish and meat dishes since 1935. Excellent desserts too
• Clock Earery – casual Italian. And for days when you just want a burger!
• Liotrivi. Outstanding seafood and wine list, Liotrivi has been a favorite in Spetses for the past 20 years.

7. Beach Hop your way around Spetses Greece

No visit to Spetses is complete without a day spent relaxing on its pristine beaches. Whether you prefer secluded coves or bustling waterfronts, the island offers a variety of sandy shores to suit every traveler’s taste.

My article on the best 12 beaches in Spetses will give you plenty to choose from!

8. Cycle Around the Island

Explore the island at your own pace by renting a bicycle and pedaling along Spetses’ scenic coastal roads and winding trails.

Discover hidden gems, picturesque villages, and panoramic viewpoints along the way.

9. Hike to the Lighthouse

Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a scenic trek to the Lighthouse of Spetses Greece.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the island’s coastline and the sparkling Aegean Sea from this iconic vantage point.

10. Savor Sunset Views

As the day draws to a close, head to one of Spetses’ waterfront cafes or bars to savor the stunning sunset views over the horizon.

Toast to another day in paradise as the sky is painted in hues of pink, orange, and gold.

11. Go on a day trip to a nearby island

What better way to spend a day than by exploring a nearby island? Luckily, Spetses can easily be combined with islands like Hydra (30mins), and Poros (1hr) via ferry.

For more ideas for island hopping in Greece, and island combinations read my viral article here

12. Go hiking

With its network of scenic trails, Spetses boasts many hiking options suitable for all levels of experience.

One popular route is the path that leads from the historic town of Spetses to the picturesque Old Harbor, passing through olive groves, pine forests, and ancient ruins along the way.

For a more challenging hike, adventurers can tackle the trail that ascends to the summit of Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Along the way, hikers can discover hidden gems such as secluded beaches, natural springs, and traditional villages.

13. Participate in the Spetses Mini Marathon

The Spetses Mini Marathon is an annual sporting event that attracts athletes and participants from all over the world. Established in 2011, the event celebrates the island’s rich maritime history and promotes sportsmanship, camaraderie, and healthy living.

The main highlight of the Spetses Mini Marathon is the 25-kilometer race! This takes participants on a scenic route around the island, passing through charming villages, coastal roads, and lush landscapes.

In addition to the main race, the event also features shorter-distance races, including a 10-kilometer race and a 5-kilometer fun run, catering to runners of all ages and abilities.

Participants can expect a festive atmosphere, with live music, entertainment, and cultural activities held throughout the weekend.

The Spetses Mini Marathon is as much a sporting event as it is a celebration of the island’s natural beauty, culture, and community spirit.

The marathon in 2024 is being held in October ( 04/10-06/10) but keep an eye out on this page for official updates

14. Observe an open-air sculpture exhibition

Natalia Mela – the famous sculptress used to spend her summers in Spetses Greece. Thus, she was inspired to create several sculptures and statues that decorate the island, including the famous Bouboulina statue on Poseidonio Square.

The open-air exhibition is available for everyone to see in the forest area of the Lighthouse, in the Old Harbour. Animals, like goats, bulls, and mythical creatures, like this mermaid welcome boats into the harbor, and await visitors to marvel at them.

Tia’s Tip: the visit is even more magical during sunset!

15. Open Air Cinema at Cine Titania

Cine Titania is a beautiful “open air” old cinema – recently restored – in the middle of the town, showing all new releases.

Sitting on comfortable garden-style furniture with tables for snacks and wine, this is a great way to spend a warm summer evening. The cinema has some wonderfully restored cine cameras in the venue and somewhere to buy popcorn, beer, and wine.

Open from May to the end of September, I’m sure you will enjoy this family pastime under the night sky of Spetses!

16. A drink with a view at Balconi

A very popular bar right on the seafront with a great atmosphere.

Established in 2014, Balconi is a fantastic place for dinner and drinks with a view of the bustling life around Spetses harbor.

The food is tasty, and the cocktails and coffee are excellent!

17. Spetses Stargazing

An outdoor activity not to be missed! If you are interested in astrology, you will love this unique stargazing experience – offered exclusively by AAC members certified in Astronomy.

In this memorable cosmic journey, you will hear about the history of astronomy, modern astronomy, philosophical astronomy, and ancient Greek mythology (and its relationship to different plants, galaxies, and constellations).

This experience has a 2-hour duration and aims to bend over Cosmos’ biggest mysteries.

You can read more information or book here

Ferries to Spetses

Spetses is one of the Saronic Greek islands that are located southwest of Athens. The Saronic islands are quite popular because of their proximity to the capital of Greece, Athens. This makes them ideal for shorter excursions and weekends away.

The island in particular is a 2-hour ferry ride from the capital.

Getting to Spetses is relatively easy, with several transportation options available:

1. Ferry: The most common way to reach Spetses is by ferry. Ferries depart regularly from the port of Piraeus in Athens and usually stop at the nearby island of Hydra before continuing to Spetses. The ferry ride takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the route and ferry schedule.
2. Hydrofoil: For a faster option, travelers can take a hydrofoil or flying dolphin from Piraeus to Spetses. Hydrofoils are high-speed vessels that make the journey in about 2 hours, offering a quicker alternative to traditional ferries.

You can find more specifics – like gates and such – here

Transportation in Spetses

Once on Spetses, visitors can explore the island on foot, by bicycle, or by renting a scooter or ATV.

Horse-drawn carriages are also a popular mode of transportation for getting around the picturesque harbor town. I am personally very against that and I urge you to think twice before putting such strain on a horse, especially under the extreme heat!

Spetses Greece Hotels

if you have the budget, then look no further than the 5* Posidonion Hotel which is nestled along the picturesque waterfront of the island’s main town.

The hotel offers stunning views of the azure waters of the Saronic Gulf and the bustling harbor.

With its traditional whitewashed architecture and elegant interiors, the Posidonion Hotel exudes timeless charm and sophistication.

The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, while the bar offers a tempting selection of cocktails to enjoy on the terrace overlooking the sea.

There are of course, more affordable accommodation options, which you can find here!

Spetses Island Epilogue

In conclusion, Spetses Greece offers many experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, indulging in watersports, or simply soaking in the island’s natural beauty, Spetses Greece promises an unforgettable journey filled with memories to last a lifetime.

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Tia x

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