What To Do In Spetses Greece

Wondering what to do in Spetses Greece, and if it’s worth a visit?

Spetses is part of the Argo-Saronic islands, which also include Salamina, Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, and Dokos.

Known as the most aristocratic of these islands, Spetses is rich in historical landmarks from the Greek War of Independence (1821) against the Ottomans

Bicycle with a wicker basket parked along a waterfront promenade in Spetses Greece, with boats moored nearby.

Living in Athens makes Spetses one of my favorite weekend getaways, especially since it’s so easy to reach.

There’s always something exciting to do on this charming island, with its unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and old-world charm.

From the impressive neoclassical houses and colorful walls to lush gardens and intricate mosaics along the paved streets, Spetses never fails to enchant me—and I never get tired of exploring it.

So, if you’re curious about what to do in Spetses, Greece, I’ve put together this travel guide covering the best things to see on the island. Read on and get ready to experience the unique charm of Spetses!

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When you’re in Spetses, set aside at least two days to enjoy all the best attractions the island has to offer.

If you take the flying dolphin from Piraeus Port while you are arriving at the Spetses Port, Dapia, you will see that the surrounding low hills are not the usual ragged, dry, rocky Cycladic scenery.

Instead, you will see green hills with mild uphills and large white Greek traditional or neoclassical houses with roof tiles.

1. Stroll by the Canons in Dapia Port

"A historical square featuring two old cannons positioned on either side of a cobblestone path. In the background, there is a large, white building with Greek flags, palm trees, and a small white chapel with a tiled roof. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, including shrubs and trees, under a clear blue sky. The scene captures a mix of historical and architectural elements in a Mediterranean setting."

Dapia, the port of Spetses, was the old artillery station of the island, featuring many cannons that can be seen as you stroll through the area.

This was the location where the captains gathered during the 1821 Greek War of Independence against the Ottomans.

"A bustling waterfront area featuring several small passenger boats docked in a calm, clear harbor. The boats have red and white hulls with enclosed cabins. In the background, two-story buildings with balconies and tiled roofs line the quay, housing shops and a bank. A stone wall runs along the water’s edge on the right, leading to an area with outdoor seating. The scene depicts a lively coastal town with a mix of commercial and maritime activity under a sunny sky." — Dapia Port

One of the best things to do in Spetses town is to enjoy a coffee in one of the various cafes at the old harbor. The cafés behind the cannons are filled day and night.

2. Go to Spetses Museum

"The entrance to the Spetses Museum, featuring an arched doorway with a blue wooden door and a sign in Greek above it. The entrance is set in a weathered, ochre-colored stone wall. Two bicycles, one red and one white, are parked in front of the wall. The surrounding buildings have a rustic, aged appearance, contributing to the historic charm of the location." — Chatziginanni Mexi Museum

I am a history buff, although my studies are in Economics. I love visiting the museums and the archaeological sites of a place, as they give me a sense of the past of a place.

Chatzigianni Mexi or Spetses Museum is a worthwhile museum with rare exhibits of the Mycenaean shipwreck of Iria around 1200 BCE.

On the first floor, the 4,000 exhibits include pottery from the Early Hellenic and Classical periods, sculptures and coins from the Roman and Byzantine periods, and even the remains of Laskarina Bouboulina.

Open daily between 08:30 and 14:00 – Monday closed. General admission: €3

3. Walk to the Spetses Lighthouse

"An aerial view of a picturesque coastal town with a lighthouse on a rocky promontory surrounded by greenery. The lighthouse is white with an attached building and overlooks the turquoise waters of the bay. Several boats, including a large ship, are anchored in the calm harbor. The town in the background has charming white buildings with terracotta roofs, extending along the waterfront. The scene captures a blend of natural beauty and quaint maritime architecture."

This is one of the best things to do in Spetses, Greece: walk to the Lighthouse which is past the old port.

The Lighthouse itself is closed to visitors but it is a beautiful place with endless sea views and a nice spot to admire the sunset.

"A metallic mermaid statue stands on a rocky shoreline, overlooking calm turquoise waters. The sculpture depicts a mermaid with a scaled tail and outstretched arms, holding a trident in one hand. The mermaid has long, flowing hair made of metal strands. Behind her, a tree-lined shore extends along the water's edge under a clear sky. The scene combines art and nature in a coastal setting." — Spetses Mermaid

Don’t miss visiting the nearby Spetses metallic Mermaid, one of the most prominent Spetses landmarks.

The Mermaid is located at the edge of the Old Port, under the church of Armata, a work of the sculptor Natalia Mela. From this point, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the Old Port of Spetses.

4. Explore the Bouboulina Museum

"An elegant, vintage room featuring ornate wooden furniture and a richly detailed wooden ceiling. The room is decorated with antique pieces, including a central round table surrounded by upholstered chairs, a large wooden cabinet, and a desk. Portraits and framed artworks adorn the walls, while large windows with yellow frames allow natural light to fill the space. The floor is covered with a patterned red carpet, and various decorative objects, such as lamps and vases, are displayed throughout the room. The setting reflects a sophisticated, historical ambiance." — Exhibits of the Bouboulina Museum

Laskarina Bouboulina, born in 1771, came from a wealthy family in Spetses. Greece, back then, was under Ottoman occupation.

Bouboulina used most of her fortune and ships for the Greek Independence War against the Ottomans in 1821.

After her death, Tsar Alexander I of Russia granted Bouboulina the honorary rank of Admiral of the Russian Navy, making her, until recently, the only woman in world naval history to hold this title.

"A historical drawing depicting a scene on a ship. A man in traditional attire is looking through a telescope towards a coastal fortress, while a woman in elaborate clothing, possibly a historical figure, points in the same direction. An elderly man stands beside a cannon on the deck. The background shows a mountainous coastline with a fortified town. The image portrays a moment of navigation or strategy, with detailed period costumes and nautical elements, reflecting a scene from a historical narrative." — Bouboulina in one of her ships

The Museum was Bouboulina’s house, and you can have a live tour of its premises and unique, rare items of Bouboulina’s private life and Greece’s history.

The Museum stays open between the 25th of March and the 28th of October. The museum can be found directly behind Dapia Port and is open between March and October. Tickets €6.

"A grand, historic mansion surrounded by lush palm trees and overgrown vegetation. The two-story building features a neoclassical design with a columned entrance, ornate balconies, and detailed architectural elements. A stone pathway leads up to the wooden front doors, flanked by statues and an intricate mosaic pattern on the ground. The scene evokes a sense of faded opulence and timeless elegance under a cloudy sky." — Anargyros Mansion

Very Close to the Bouboulina Museum stands a uniquely beautiful building, the mansion of Sotirios Anargyros (1849-1918).

Anargyros, one of the island’s great benefactors, built it in 1904 with a varied mix of architectural styles.

The mansion is surrounded by large gardens and the characteristic mosaic that you will see everywhere on Spetses. It’s awaiting the government’s funds to be properly restored.

Korgialenios School of Spetses is a historical and cultural heritage and a fantastic location if you are considering organizing a conference in Spetses. Check for more information on their website here.

5. Enjoy Spetses’ Best Beaches

Spetses has lovely beaches, some of which are surrounded by pine forests, creating a beautiful natural environment to swim and enjoy your summer vacations. Some of the best beaches on Spetses Island are:

Agios Mamas

"An aerial view of a charming coastal town with a sandy beach curving around a clear, turquoise bay. The beach is lined with sunbathers and umbrellas, while swimmers enjoy the water. The town features traditional Mediterranean architecture, with white-washed buildings and terracotta roofs extending along the shoreline. A promenade with cafes and shops runs parallel to the beach, creating a lively waterfront atmosphere under a sunny sky." — Agios Mamas Beach

Agios Mamas is within short walking distance from Spetses town, with sand and a small pebble beach.

It is a large, not organized beach surrounded by cafes and taverns. A very traditional eatery is Roussos Taverna, where you choose your dish from the stew pots and baking pans behind the counter (my favorite type of Greek tavern).

Agia Marina Beach on Spetses Island, Greece, featuring a pebble-stone shore with sunbeds and beachgoers relaxing. The turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea gently lap the beach, and lush green trees surround the area, creating a serene and picturesque coastal scene.

Agia Marina is a popular beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, in an impressive environment just 2 km from the Spetses port.

On top of the hill behind the beach stands the impressive 19th-century Monastery of Agioi Pantes, which is worth visiting for the top view.

"A secluded, crescent-shaped beach nestled between green, tree-covered hills and the clear blue sea. The pebbly shore is lined with rows of sun loungers and thatched umbrellas. A few people are relaxing under the umbrellas and swimming in the calm waters. The beach is surrounded by natural vegetation, including pine trees, which frame the idyllic scene under a partly cloudy sky." — Vrelos Beach

My favorite beach on Spetses island is Vrelos beach, on the north, surrounded by a pine forest.

A mixture of sand and pebbles, with a rocky seabed (bring your mask), and crystal clear waters, organized with sunbeds, is an idyllic place.

Xylokeriza Beach on Spetses Island, Greece, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters and a pebble-stone beach with a few visitors enjoying the tranquil environment. The scenic background includes lush green hills and a white building on the cliffside. — Xilokeriza Beach

Xilokeriza beach is 8 km away from Spetses town in the south, set on a bay with pebbles and sea rocks, with a small kiosk that serves cafes and snacks.

After Xilokeriza Beach, a tiny, remote, sandy, and beautiful beach is located within walking distance, called Eleni’s Beach.

Agioi Anargyroi Beach and Bekiris or Fairy Tale Cave

"Clear, turquoise waters of a rocky coastal area, with sunlight illuminating the underwater features and creating a gradient from deep blue to emerald green. The rocky shoreline is characterized by rugged, weathered rocks with visible strata and pebble-covered surfaces. The tranquil water contrasts with the rough texture of the rocks, creating a striking natural scene." — Bekiris Cave

Beautiful Agioi Anargyroi beach is 12 km from Spetses town, has pebbles, is organized with a tavern and you can also do sea sports.

But the most impressive site in Agioi Anargyroi is the Bekiris or Fairy Cave, with a small sandy beach and stalagmites that create a beautiful setting.

The cave has an entrance both from the land and from the sea, and is very well hidden, which is why in the past it was a hiding place for the Greeks, especially during the Ottoman occupation.

The best time to visit the cave is late afternoon when most people have left.

Note: A very romantic scene was filmed in the Greek film ‘Tzeni Tzeni’ of 1966.

"A scenic view of a sheltered bay with calm, turquoise waters surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense, green vegetation. The coastline is rugged, with a mix of rock formations and small patches of sandy beach. Tall pine trees line the foreground, leading to a white building nestled among the trees on the right side. Distant hills and a serene sea stretch out towards the horizon, with a clear sky overhead. The landscape creates a peaceful and natural coastal vista." — Agia Paraskevi Beach

I couldn’t skip including in this Spetses Greece Travel Guide the beautiful beaches of Kounoupitsa, Agia Paraskevi, and Zogeria beaches.

In Kounoupitsa, you should try the famous Patralis Fish Tavern & The Water of Love restaurant for fine fish cuisine.

6. Indulge in Fine Spetses Eateries

Great places to eat in Dapia:

Argyris restaurant, at Clock Square, is a real traditional Greek taverna. Everything is fresh and they offer a free dessert or fruit at the end of your meal.
Bouboulina restaurant is near the port and specializes in fresh fish and seafood.
Clock Eatery, for pizzas and Greek dishes.
Tarsanas restaurant, a traditional fish tavern. Do try their taramosalata and their fish in salt.

Old Port specializes in fresh fish and you can find some of the best restaurants here:

Spetsiotiko has tables at the waterfront, and the Greek food is absolutely delicious.
The Orloff restaurant serves exceptional traditional Greek food. One of its best attributes is its amazing location and terrace with beautiful sea views. Try the shrimp with pasta. Nearby is the impressive Agios Nikolaos Church from the 18th century, and a nun monastery today. It stands out because of its lovely location and the stunning bell tower made of marble.

7. Bike all around Spetses

If you are a keen cyclist, then you will love Spetses! I do because I get easily tired with the uphills (see my biking day in Agistri island) so Spetses is great for easy biking.

In the absence of cars, dirt roads, or steep hills, you have the absolute freedom to pedal through the beautiful alleys and discover all the secret places that cars can’t find!

And if you are in Spetses in October, then you should participate in the Tweed Run Spetses, a run with English-inspired attire. The event is organized by Poseidonion Grand Hotel Spetses,

8. Taste the Local Delicacies of Spetses

"A quaint display of traditional sweets and preserves in a pastel-colored shop. Shelves against a turquoise wall are lined with small jars of jam and various confections in glass containers. The counter features glass jars filled with colorful candies, marshmallows, and cookies. Decorative elements, such as a small ceramic boat and playful figurines, add charm to the arrangement. The scene captures the nostalgic and inviting atmosphere of a vintage sweet shop."

Amygdalota are made of almonds, cinnamon, honey, and cloves and is the local traditional sweet that you are going to love!

Great sweet shops to buy them from are the Vanilia Shop and the Politis in Dapia.

9. Explore the Hiking Trails in Spetses

The landscape of Spetses is mostly green hills with no dramatic high mountains, nothing like Anafi island in the Cyclades.

The Prophet Elias is the highest point on the island at 291 m. Spetses trails are inside the beautiful pine forest with thyme bushes and wonderful views of the island. In fall the whole island is filled with a carpet of cyclamen.

"A detailed topographic map of Spetses Island, highlighting various hiking paths and cultural sites. The map features contour lines indicating elevation changes, along with a network of colored trails and roads. Key locations, such as towns, beaches, and points of interest, are marked with symbols and labels. A legend on the left provides information about the different types of paths and routes. The map is set against a blue background, representing the surrounding sea." — Paper Hiking Map of Spetses Trails

There are 12 signposted trails, most of them quite easy, or ending in the sea for a well-deserved dive. It is very doable to just walk around the whole island and I’d suggest you give it a try.

One of my favorite trails is trail number E, which starts from Vrelos and makes a round of Prophetis Elias Mt, a 5km length.

My favorite months to hike in Greece are October (warm but not too much) and April, when everything has blossomed.

10. Island Hopping from Spetses

You can very easily take the ferries from Spetses to the other Argosaronic islands and specifically to:

Hydra is about a 45-minute trip by ferry
Poros is about a 1.5-hour trip
Porto Heli is just 10 minutes away.

Where Best to Stay on Spetses Island

Poseidonion Grand Hotel Spetses, built in 1914, has offered hospitality to royalties, cosmopolitans, VIPs from all over the world, and rich Greeks alike. An eclectic luxury hotel, surrounded by palm trees and Mediterranean herbs, a real delight to stay in. You can visit its 5-star fine cuisine restaurant or have a drink on its picturesque veranda.

Armata Boutique Hotel Spetses Greece (mid-range, family-friendly): A lovely Boutique Hotel with a beautiful garden full of flowers and a pool, centrally located in Spetses and close to everything.

Villa Margarita is a fabulous budget, self-catering property with a lovely swimming pool and beautiful views from the balcony.

Best Cafes and Bars in Spetses Greece

"An aerial view of a swimming marathon in the open sea. Hundreds of swimmers are moving through the clear blue water, creating a long, continuous line stretching towards the horizon. Support boats and a sailboat with a blue canopy are positioned alongside the swimmers. In the distance, a coastal town with hills and scattered buildings can be seen under a cloudy sky. The image captures the dynamic and communal spirit of a large-scale aquatic event." — Bikini Cocktails and Snacks in Spetses

I can’t imagine going to an island, enjoying its attractions and the sea, going to a local tavern, and not going to a bar for a drink afterward!

So this is my short list of some of the cafes and bars in Spetses that I believe you will have a fantastic time:

Hono & Lulu, in Old Port of Spetses, is a popular seafront tiki bar, specializing in Caribbean cocktails
Jinx is also in the Old Port of Spetses with funk and ethnic music, cocktails with fresh fruits, and sugary syrups – including zombies and Mai Tais and a selection of beers
If you love 90s music Bikini Cocktails and Snacks is another gorgeous seafront bar (and excellent cuisine) in Old Port
La Luz Spetses is the only bar in Spetses where you can find live Greek music during the weekends. It is a wonderful stone and wood building with a terrace overlooking the Old Port.

When is Best to Go to Spetses?

Anytime throughout the year is a good time to visit Spetses. July and August are the busiest months so if you are planning to visit during those months, book your accommodation in advance.

Every May, Spetses authorities organize the Spetsathlon Triathlon, where athletes from all over the world participate.

This year the festival runs Aug 27–Sept 14, with the big highlight on Sept 13 — a battle reenactment, the burning of an Ottoman flagship, and fireworks to top it off!

Book your hotel in advance as you will not find anything available easily.

Participants gearing up for a triathlon at Spetses Island, Greece. The event takes place on a sunny beach with clear waters and a crowd of supporters and athletes preparing for the race.

If you are a marathon fan, participate in the Spetses Mini Marathon every 4-6th of October with runs of 5, 10, and 25 km.

If you are a Marathon fan, you will also enjoy my post on Marathon Athens.

FAQs for Spetses

What’s the nightlife like on Spetses?

If you’re in the mood for a laid-back night out, Spetses is a great place to kick back. You’ll find relaxed bars, lively tavernas, and charming cafes with live music—especially during the busy summer season.

Is Spetses a good destination for families?

The island’s super chill and perfect for families—think safe beaches, cozy tavernas, and fun boat trips to keep everyone happy.

How to Get to Spetses

You can not fly to Spetses from Athens as there is no airport on the island. The fastest and easiest way to get to Spetses Island is by ferry (catamaran).
The trip lasts around 2-3 hours from Piraeus Port, depending on the vessel you take.
The catamarans from Piraeus depart daily, a few times per day, and take only passengers.
You can also go to Spetses island by driving from Athens to the Peloponnese, all the way to Kosta small port, leave your car at the large municipal parking (cost is €5 per day) and take the ferry to Spetses, which is minutes away.
That way you can also visit Corinth and Argolis which house some magnificent archaeological sites and beautiful medieval towns like Nafplion. Some of the best sites in the Peloponnese are:
Corinth Canal and Ancient Corinth.
Mycenae and The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.
Nafplion, Porto Heli & Ermioni summer seaside villages.

The Saronics are the easiest islands to reach from Athens, but should you stick to the boat for these short trips? See my comparison of Greek island transport for the full scoop.

This image captures a charming seaside village on Spetses Island. The scene features a row of elegant, pastel-colored houses with red-tiled roofs and balconies overlooking the calm, blue water. The houses are situated along a waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, giving the area a tranquil and picturesque Mediterranean atmosphere. The crystal-clear water reflects the buildings and the bright, sunny sky, enhancing the idyllic setting. The overall composition highlights the serene beauty and historic architecture of this coastal community.

Getting Around Spetses

If you are going to need any transportation, you will find it at Spetses’ main town and harbor, Dapia.

Private cars are not allowed on the island but there are rentals in Dapia for scooters or bicycles and as Spetses is a small island, you will have no problem going almost everywhere.

There are a few taxis but as they can be busy during the peak season, it is best if you book them in advance. Phone numbers and price lists can be found in the main square of Dapia.

There are also 2 public buses running Spetses during the summer, leaving every half an hour and going to different destinations on the island.

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Evgenia

Athens Airport to Piraeus Port

Bus: If you are arriving at Athens International Airport you can travel straight to the port by taking the X96 express bus (€5.5, children <6 yo, free entrance), which departs every 40 minutes and the average trip lasts 1 hour – runs 24/7. X93 will take you to Athens center.
Metro: (€9) is easily found across airport arrivals (blue line – M3) going directly to Piraeus port. The average trip to Piraeus lasts 1 hour.
Taxis are available in front of the airport (around €45 to Athens, €55 to Piraeus (depending on the traffic in Kifisos), and take up to 3 or 4 people with small luggage)
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You don’t like driving but love hassle-free solutions? Book a Private transfer with an English-speaking driver from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Ferries, or anywhere else in Greece.

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About the author

Evgenia Mataragka

Hi there! I’m Evgenia, a local Athenian and the creator of Travel the Greek Way. I’m obsessed with uncovering the real side of my home country—from the historic corners of the mainland to the sun-drenched paths of the Greek islands. Check out my latest videos on YouTube and follow the community on Facebook.