
Poros is one of the most underrated gems of the Saronic Islands, a verdant little paradise located just 200 metres off the Peloponnese coast. The very name of the island, which means ‘strip of sea’ in Greek, derives from the narrow channel that separates it from the mainland town of Galatas, creating a unique geographical scenery reminiscent of Venice due to the constant dance of ferries and small boats connecting the two shores.
The island is actually made up of two islets connected by a bridge: Sferia, where the charming main town of Poros is located, and Kalavria, the larger, wilder part covered in dense pine forests that reach down to the sea. This special geographical feature, coupled with its strategic proximity to Athens (just 55 kilometres), has made Poros a favoured destination for Athenians seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city, while maintaining an authentic and relaxed atmosphere.
Poros’ location in the Saronic Gulf offers the best of two worlds: the convenience of an easily accessible island and the beauty of unspoilt natural landscapes. The fragrant pine forests that characterise the island create a spectacular contrast with the turquoise waters of the sea, while the archaeological heritage testifies to a glorious past rooted in ancient Greece.

The main town of Poros is a small jewel of Cycladic architecture that climbs the hills of Sferia. The typical white houses with red tiled roofs create a fascinating colour contrast with the deep blue of the sea, while the picturesque harbour pulses with life with its traditional taverns and the constant coming and going of boats. The symbol of the city is the Clock Tower, built in 1927, which dominates the cityscape from the top of the hill. The climb up to the tower is particularly impressive at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the old town below and the channel separating the island from the Peloponnese.
The Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi (‘Spring of Life’) is the most important religious site on the island, nestled in a dense pine forest about 4 kilometres from the centre. Founded in 1720, the monastery holds artistic treasures of great value, including a magnificent 5-metre high iconostasis made in Asia Minor and the icon of the Panagia of Zoodochos Pigi, painted around 1650. Legend has it that it was built after a healing miracle occurred at a local sacred spring.
The remains of the ancient Temple of Poseidon are located in the northern part of the island, in a dominant position offering spectacular views of the bay of Vagionia. Built at the end of the 6th century B.C., this Doric sanctuary represents one of the most significant archaeological sites on the Saronic Islands. The Archaeological Museum in the town centre houses a collection of artefacts illustrating the thousand-year history of the island, from the Mycenaean period to Roman times.
The beaches of Poros are characterised by their variety and the unique contrast between the golden sand, the pebbles polished by the sea and the lush Mediterranean vegetation that reaches the shoreline. Askeli is the largest and busiest beach on the island, a paradise of fine sand embraced by a thick, fragrant pine forest. It is home to the island’s main hotels and numerous taverns serving fresh fish right on the sand, with the soothing background of the sea waves.
Love Bay is one of Poros’ hidden gems, a small cove of extraordinary beauty surrounded by centuries-old pine trees that provide natural shade during the hottest hours. Its crystal-clear waters and white sand make it perfect for moments of absolute relaxation. Monastiri is another particularly attractive beach, named after the ancient monastery nearby. This bay of white sand and emerald sea offers a tranquil ambience ideal for those seeking peace and authenticity.
Russian Bay is considered one of the best beaches on the island, characterised by large pebbles and crystal-clear waters sheltered from the wind. The name comes from an old Russian fortification built at the end of the 19th century, the remains of which are still visible. Megalo Neorio and Mikro Neorio are two wide sandy beaches on the north coast, where pine trees literally bathe in the clear sea, creating picture-postcard scenery. Maritime connections from Poros town make it easy to reach all the main beaches, allowing one to comfortably discover the different corners of paradise that the island has to offer.
Poros’ accommodation offer is mainly concentrated in the main town and the Askeli Beach area, providing accommodation for every budget and type of travel. In the historic centre of Poros town, one can find charming boutique hotels in renovated traditional buildings, offering rooms with views of the harbour and the canal that separates the island from the Peloponnese. These establishments, often family-run, allow one to experience the authentic island atmosphere and walk to taverns, cafes and shops.
The Askeli area is home to the largest hotel facilities, including hotels with swimming pools and spa facilities that overlook the island’s most famous beach. Many of these hotels also offer flats and studios ideal for families or extended stays, with fully equipped kitchens and panoramic balconies. For those seeking peace and quiet, a number of private villas and holiday homes are available in the wilder part of Kalavria, nestled in the pine forest and just a short walk from the more private coves.
A special option is accommodation in Galatas, on the mainland of the Peloponnese, connected to Poros by frequent ferries. This option offers lower prices and the possibility to explore the Peloponnesian hinterland as well, while maintaining Poros as a base for bathing activities and relaxation.
We offer a selection of hotels at Poros to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Poros, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Poros. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Poros are in high demand.
Poros does not have an airport, but its proximity to Athens and strategic location in the Saronic Gulf make it extremely easy to reach. From the Port of Piraeus there are frequent ferry connections with Hellenic Seaways (5 daily runs, duration 1 hour) and Saronic Ferries (2 daily runs, duration 2 hours 35 minutes). Tickets cost an average of 50-60 euros and ferries operate all year round with more frequency during the summer season.
A particularly interesting alternative is to reach Poros by land via the Peloponnese. From Athens airport, one can take a bus to Kifissos station, then a direct connection to Galatas (about 150 kilometres, 2 hours 30 minutes travel time). From Galatas, small ferries cross the channel every 15 minutes with a crossing of only 10 minutes, allowing you to bring your car to the island as well.
The most convenient route involves a flight to Athens and subsequent transfer to Piraeus. From Eleftherios Venizelos airport, the blue metro (line 3) connects directly to the Port of Piraeus in about 1 hour. During the summer season, some shipping companies also offer day trips that include Poros along with other Saronic islands such as Aegina and Hydra.
What's the weather at Poros? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Poros for the next few days.