Discover our curated guide to where to eat, drink, swim, and stay on Poros, an island where elegance meets ease.
Tucked into the heart of the Saronic Gulf, Poros is a quietly enchanting escape- graceful, nostalgic, and surprisingly under the radar. Formed by the volcanic eruption of nearby Methana, its singular landscape blends natural drama with small-island charm.
The main town unfolds across a hillside, a cascade of neoclassical facades, overgrown gardens, and narrow lanes bursting with bougainvillea. Here, time slows: cats lounge in the sun, locals chat in leafy courtyards, and golden-hour light spills across the masts of anchored sailboats.
Romantic without being precious, cultured without trying too hard- Poros is the insider’s choice. The kind of place Athenians retreat to when they want to disappear- not far, just far enough.
Perfect for…
A great weekend escape, thanks to its proximity to Athens. Ideal for sailing lovers, sunset chasers, and those who crave Greek island charm minus the crowds.
See + Do
Poros Town is the island vibrant heart. With its picturesque architecture, traditional charm, cobblestone streets, and lovely sea views, it’s a wonderful place to explore on foot. Wander through Poros’s marble alleys- they truly glow at sunset.
Stroll to the imposing bell tower that dominates the area- a striking landmark visible from afar, embodying the region’s history and cultural heritage.
Discover the Ancient Temple of Poseidon, located at the heart of the island. Once a significant site, it served as the center of an important ancient amphictyony.
Visit the Monastiri, which is located on a hill above Askeli Beach. Surrounded by pine trees, it holds historical significance for the island.
Head over to the remains at Russian Bay, the site of the early 19th-century Russian Dockyard. This historic area was declared a monument in 1989.
For a classic summer night, catch a movie under the stars at Cine Diana- Poros’ open-air cinema, where you can catch current films in a magical setting.
Sail around Bourtzi islet, the old Venetian fortress.
Experience Greece’s famous lemon forest, located just opposite the port of Poros on the Peloponnese shore– the only one of its kind in the country.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Poros, located in Korizi Square, close to the port. It houses findings from the Temple of Poseidon and excavations from neighbouring areas of the Peloponnese, such as Methana, Galatas, and Ancient Troezen.
Explore the Hatzopoulios Municipal Library, inspired by Ekaterini Hatzopoulou. Housed in a charming neoclassical building, it features a small cinema and regularly hosts exhibitions.
Eat & Drink
Breakfast + Brunch…
La Frianderie: Considered the best breakfast and coffee spot in Galatas, it sits right on the water’s edge- offering scenic views, freshly baked croissants (to die for) from their workshop, savoury sandwiches (made with local vegetables and cheeses), omelettes and more.
Lunch + Dinner…
Serenità: A modern restaurant serving a refined blend of traditional Greek flavours and inventive culinary techniques. Located on Dimitriou Douzeni Street, it offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and lovely views of the harbour.
Apagio: A family-run taverna where the owners serve fresh fish caught daily. Set along the harbour front, it offers beautiful views of the sea and the Peloponnese to enjoy as you eat and drink.
Karavolos: A beloved traditional Greek taverna, tucked just behind Cine Diana and only metres from the coastal road. Unpretentious, yet full of exquisite flavour.
White Cat: A historic, family-run restaurant by the water, serving classic Greek and island cuisine since 1909. Nestled along the shoreline, it offers panoramic sunset views and a romantic, timeless ambience.
Poseidon: Set right on the seafront with spectacular sunset views of the famed ‘Sleeping Lady’ mountain range, this spot offers a dining experience centred on the freshest ingredients.
Spiliada Tavern: Tucked into the picturesque Punta area of Poros, this beloved meze spot has been serving authentic Greek flavours since 2007, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
To Sokaki: Tucked away in the picturesque alleyways near Town Hall Square, this charming Greek taverna serves a variety of homemade dishes and offers an authentic dining experience that feels lifted from a classic Greek film.
Coffee + Sweets…
Glykisma: The go-to spot for traditional Greek “siropiasta” (syrupy sweets)—all homemade and utterly delicious. Known for its white almond baklava, ravani, galaktoboureko, rice pudding, and all the classic favourites.
Daglis: A legendary almond sweet shop on Karamanou Square, crafting the island’s most beloved treats since 1976. Steeped in old-school charm, it offers liquors, spoon sweets, pasteli, and homemade ice cream– all in a delightfully nostalgic ’60s setting.
Vessala Patisserie: Set in a beautiful building with red doors in the most elegant stretch of the promenade, I had one of the best ice creams of my life here. Don’t leave without trying one (the salted butter caramel is a must—thank me later!), or without picking up their incredible organic fruit jams and traditional spoon sweets.
Drinks…
Oceania: A rooftop cocktail bar with stunning sunset views over the port- perfect for golden hour drinks with a view.
Ampelos Wine Bar: Feels like a charming old wine cellar, tucked away in one of Poros’ most picturesque narrow streets. With its authentic, cozy atmosphere and carefully curated selection of wines from both Greek and international vineyards, it’s a hidden gem for wine lovers.
Sail Cocktail Bar: A lively local hotspot where visitors and residents gather for waterfront views, great music from talented DJs, expertly mixed cocktails, and an electric atmosphere that turns into dancing and unforgettable summer nights.
Local flavours…
Try the amygdalopita and local citrus liqueurs- they’re a true taste of the island!
Discover
Best beaches…
Love Bay: A small, picturesque cove with emerald waters framed by pine trees, widely regarded as the island’s most beautiful beach. Easily accessible by bus from town.
Megalo Neorio: One of Poros island’s most enchanting beaches, it’s a peaceful, pine-fringed bay where the forest meets the sea. Nestled on its golden sands is Seen.Poros, an upscale all-day destination that blends natural elegance with relaxed luxury. Surrounded by lush pine trees, it offers a serene yet stylish escape. From morning swims to sunset lounging, guests can enjoy spacious sunbeds, curated cocktails, Mediterranean flavours, and warm hospitality- all in a laid-back, family-friendly setting.
Kanali Beach: Close to town and perfect for families, this beach features shallow, clear waters, soft sand, and nearby tavernas.
Russian Bay: A peaceful beach steeped in history, where the ruins of an old Russian dockyard line the shore.
Monastiri Beach: Nestled below the Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, this spot offers a calm, spiritual atmosphere surrounded by lush pine trees– and a casual beach bar to unwind at.
Askeli Beach: Is the largest and most organised beach on the island, featuring sunbeds, beach bars, and water sports.
Vayionia: Is a quieter beach with crystal waters and a sunken ancient city beneath the surface, making it perfect for snorkelling.
Best view…
The clock tower is the defining landmark of Poros Town, perched on its highest point. From here, you’re treated to sweeping views of the sea and the surrounding rooftops.
Local gem…
Monastery Beach, which is more secluded and loved by locals for its peaceful vibe and crystal-clear waters.
Where to stay…
Poros Town (Limani): Stay near the port for walkable access to cafés, shops and nightlife.
Askeli: Peaceful beachside area with resort vibes.
Neorio: For forest-meets-sea serenity and luxurious villas.
Where to sleep…
Sirene Blue Resort Hotel: Perched on a cliff above the sea and surrounded by a lush pine forest, this chic hotel features a private beach, a seafront restaurant, and a laid-back beach bar.
Hotel Dionysios: Nestled in one of Poros’s most picturesque spots, this traditional hotel provides the perfect setting- complete with stunning views of the Sleeping Beauty mountain.
Ultimate day trip…
Hop on the water taxi to Hydra or Spetses for a taste of island-hopping elegance. Or cross over to Galatas and hike to Lemonodasos, where nature and the scent of citrus fill the air.
Best shopping experiences…
Swan Gallery: Explore fine art, ceramics, and handmade jewellery- an inspiring spot for art lovers.
Artichaut Boutique:Where Bohemian flair meets elegant style, featuring artistic jewellery and light, flowy clothing with a modern Greek touch.
Pelagos Gift Shop: Tiny and picturesque, it’s a delightful gift store filled with charming souvenirs and artisanal finds.
Tres Chic: This store lives up to its name with delicate jewellery and ethereal clothing- perfect for island days and nights.
Ωψ Studio: A stunning boutique showcasing modern design clothing and handcrafted pieces- definitely worth a visit if you’re after something truly unique.
Make sure you take home…
A bottle of local lemon liqueur, some handmade ceramics, or a piece of jewellery from a local designer.
Essentials
Getting there: There are ferries from Piraeus port in Athens, and also from other islands of the Saronic islands (Spetses, Aegina).
Best time to go: Late spring to early autumn. June and September are ideal for fewer crowds.
Ideal time to stay: 3 -5 days.
Getting around: Walk, rent a scooter or take a small boat- everything’s close by, so there’s no need for a car.
What to pack: Swimsuit, sandals, linen for sunset dinners and a light jacket to ward off the sea breeze.
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