Salamine, or Salamis, is the closest island of the Saronic Islands to Athens, separated from the mainland of Attica by a channel of just 2 kilometres. This extraordinary proximity to the Greek capital (only 16 kilometres from the centre of Athens) makes Salamis more a natural extension of the metropolis than a true island destination, so much so that many consider it almost a maritime suburb of the big city.
The island is world-famous for having been the scene of the legendary naval battle of Salamis in 480 BC, when the Greek fleet commanded by Themistocles defeated the mighty Persian army of Xerxes I, changing the course of Western history forever. But Salamis is more than just historical memory: with its 95 square kilometres of surface area and almost 104 kilometres of coastline, it is the largest of the Saronic Islands and offers a variety of landscapes, beaches and traditions that make it a fascinating destination for those seeking authenticity away from the international tourist circuits.
The population of around 40,000 makes Salamine one of the most populated Greek islands, distributed mainly in the capital Salamine (also called Koulouri) and the village of Ambelakia. This demographic reality ensures a high level of services and infrastructure, while preserving the authentic atmosphere of an island community where maritime and agricultural traditions are still alive and rooted in everyday life.
The historic centre of Salamine retains the charm of a traditional Greek town, with the picturesque harbour representing the beating heart of local life. This is where the main fish taverns, historic cafés and shops selling typical products are concentrated, while the waterfront offers splendid views of the Saronic Gulf and the Attica coastline. The Archaeological Museum houses important artefacts illustrating the thousand-year history of the island, from prehistoric finds to the remains of the famous naval battle, offering an in-depth understanding of Salamis’ strategic role in the ancient world.
Ambelakia represents the site of greatest historical interest on the island, being the place where the 480 BC naval battle physically took place. Here stands the iconic monument to the Battle of Salamis, a memorial commemorating Themistocles’ victory over the Persians. The remains of the ancient acropolis and the vestiges of the classical harbour allow visitors to literally walk on the spot where the fate of the West was decided. The site still retains an atmosphere of great fascination, amplified by the panorama over the strait where the momentous clash took place.
Other sites of interest include the 17th century Agios Nikolaos Lemonion Monastery, surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation, and the house of Angelos Sikelianos, the famous Greek poet who composed some of his most famous works here. This elegant white mansion, now a museum and national monument, testifies to the deep connection between the island and modern Greek culture.
Salamine’s beaches offer a surprising variety of landscapes and features, from wide sandy expanses to pebbly coves hidden among Mediterranean vegetation. Eantio is the longest and most organised beach on the island, a family-friendly stretch of sand that offers all bathing facilities and easy accessibility. Its location on the south coast guarantees calm waters and a gradual seabed, perfect for children and those seeking comfort.
Kanakia is one of the island’s hidden gems, a white pebble beach surrounded by dense vegetation that provides natural shade even in the hottest hours of summer. Its crystal-clear waters take on shades of green water reminiscent of the most famous Cycladic destinations, while its sheltered location makes it ideal for relaxation and snorkelling. Iliakti is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach on the island, characterised by sand alternating with white pebbles and framed by a very atmospheric natural setting reminiscent of the Saronic Islands.
Psili Ammos is distinguished by its shallow and transparent waters, perfect for families with small children, while Vasilika is frequented mainly by young people due to its lively atmosphere and proximity to the town. Agios Nikolaos is a true ‘secret beach’ that resembles a natural swimming pool, located near the village of Peristeria and characterised by pebbles and crystal-clear waters. Selinia beach combines pebbles and sand with good facilities, while Kolones offers natural shade and a panoramic position on the south coast.
The accommodation offer of Salamine is characterised by the predominance of private houses, bed & breakfasts and family-run Greek studios, rather than large hotels. This peculiarity makes for a very authentic stay experience and allows direct contact with the local culture. The centre of Salamine (Koulouri) concentrates most of the accommodation and offers the best accessibility to services, restaurants and maritime connections.
Many of the homes available for tourism are second homes of Athenians converted into holiday accommodation, often ensuring high standards and particularly competitive prices compared to other Greek destinations. The Faneromeni area offers quieter accommodation surrounded by nature, ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation away from the urban pace.
We offer a selection of hotels at Salamine 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 Salamine, 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 Salamine. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Salamine are in high demand.
Salamine enjoys excellent maritime connections due to its proximity to Athens, with ferries operating 24 hours a day for maximum flexibility of movement. The main connection runs from the port of Perama (a suburb of Piraeus) to Paloukia, the island’s main port: ferries depart every 15-30 minutes with a journey time of only 15 minutes. This continuous connection makes Salamis practically an extension of the Attic mainland.
What's the weather at Salamine? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Salamine for the next few days.
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