Discover our complete travel guide to Spetses – a two-hour catamaran ride from Athens, this pine-scented island is home to white-sand beaches, authentic dining, and waterfront bars where you can elegantly drink the night away.
Known for its old-world charm, sophistication, tranquillity, stunning beaches, and sprawling pine and citrus trees – Spetses is unique as it is one of very few Greek islands where cars are prohibited – creating a serene and nostalgic ambiance.
Offering a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation, this all-year-round destination invites visitors to explore its old-school dining spots, cobblestone alleyways, majestic mansions, and secluded swimming coves.
Eat + Drink
Lunch + Dinner
Mourayo- Housed in a 19th-century farmhouse, this awarded restaurant’s outdoor terrace offers front-row sunset seats and classic Mediterranean dishes that pair perfectly with a glass of rosé.
Bostani- This farm-to-table open-air restaurant serves fresh dishes using ingredients handpicked straight from the earth.
On the Veranda- For a fine dining experience, head to this seaside restaurant at the Poseidonion Hotel and choose from a delightful menu featuring dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Tarsanas- For freshly caught seafood turned into classics such as octopus marinated in olive oil and vinegar, lobster pasta, and an unmissable kakavia (fisherman’s soup.)
Patralis- For more great seafood, this seaside tavern that’s been here since 1935, is the perfect spot to taste sea urchin salad followed by their signature squid pasta.
Agios- Serving modern cuisine, this spot is ideal for a long lazy lunch.
Coffee + Sweets
Vanilia- Located in the centre of town, just behind the church of Agios Antonios, make sure to try the island’s famous amigdalota (almond sweet).
Klimis- This long-running family shop is famous for its sokolatina (chocolate pie), galaktoboureko (custard pie), ekmek (cream and kataifi pie) and voutiki (serano dipped in chocolate.)
Tiramisu- For a delicious mille-feuille, decadent tiramisu and fantastic sweet vegan options, this is the place!
Drinks
Bikini Bar- A hot spot thanks to a lush cocktail menu, cool lounge music, and all-round great vibes.
Mayo Café Bar- Fabulous all-day drinking spot set on a stunning terrace.
Spetsa Bar- This classic bar is where you’ll find locals having a pre or post-dinner drink.
Insider tip: This year will see the opening of two amazing new drinking spots in Spetses, where visitors can enjoy an aperitivo all day long! Taratsa and Spetses All Day Wine and Deli are set to open their doors in the upcoming weeks, and we can’t wait to have our first glass (or two) at both!
See + Do
– Spetses is the home of War of Greek Independence heroine Laskarina Bouboulina, whose statue stands outside Poseidonion Hotel, and also to the Bouboulina Museum where you can discover over three centuries of history and cultural heritage.
-We also recommend visiting the Museum of Spetses. Housed in the mansion of Chatzigiannis-Mexis, you will find exhibits that cover 4000 years of the island’s cultural history.
-Get your hands on a bicycle and peddle around the cobblestone streets and then explore the Palio Limani by horse and carriage.
-Visit Panagia Armata, a historic church situated on a picturesque hill overlooking Palio Limani.
– If you are in Spetses during Spring or Autumn, we recommend hiking the lovely green hills or cycling the coastal road that takes you around the entire island.
– Stroll around the cobblestone alleyways featuring mosaic designs and discover magnificent mansions and classy yachts along the way.
-Take a boat tour or rent a sailing boat and dive into the clear waters. Tip: make sure to sail over to Bekiris Cave for an unforgettable swim.
-Catch a film at one of the island’s open-air cinemas.
-Swim at one of the many beautiful beaches including Palaia Garifalos, Paralia Agioi Anargyroi, Agia Marina, or Agia Paraskevi. We also suggest a dip in the bay of Zogeria and then head straight to the seaside tavern next door for some lunch.
Shop
Spetses has some beautiful boutique stores that stock international brands and local designers. For some stunning pieces of jewellery, summer sandals and resort wear head to White Boutique, Soho Soho, Sea + Sun, and Mageia Boutique.
Stay
Poseidonion Grand Hotel- For a glamorous and stylish stay at Spetses’ iconic hotel, that’s been open since 1914.
Orloff Resort– This boutique hotel with a rustic chic vibe is great for families.
Yayaki- If you are looking for the perfect blend between a luxury boutique and a family guest house – this one is for you.
Essentials
Getting there: From the port of Piraeus in Athens, the trip to Spetses is about two hours with the flying dolphin and 2.5 hours with the flying cat.
Best time to go: Any time of the year- but if you are keen on a getaway that allows you to take part in a triathlon, check out the Spetses Mini Marathon, for those who love cycling head over during “A Weekend in Tweed” and for yachting enthusiasts, there is the annual Classic Regatta.
Ideal time to stay: Perfect place for a weekend getaway – but you can easily spend 3 – 4 days exploring the island.
Getting around: As mentioned, no cars are allowed however you can rent a bike or see parts of the island on a horse carriage.
What to pack: Swimmers, a linen scarf for the night breeze, and comfortable (needless to say stylish) footwear to walk and cycle.
