Where to stay in Agistri: The best areas and 16 accommodations

Agistri is the closest forested island to Athens, just 45 minutes by high-speed ferry from Piraeus. Although small in area, it has four distinct settlements and plenty of accommodation options, from simple rooms to boutique hotels with private beaches.

The choice of area mainly depends on whether you prefer bustle and tavernas nearby or peace and quiet amidst the pine trees. Skala attracts the most activity, while Megalochori is quieter and more family-friendly. Skliri and the area towards Dragonera offer accommodation closer to nature.

In this guide, you'll find 16 accommodations divided into four areas, with indicative prices, advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as practical tips before booking your trip.

What to see and do in Agistri

Agistri is located in the Saronic Gulf, between Aegina and Poros, approximately 37 km from Piraeus. Its area is small, around 13 square kilometres, which means you can traverse it on foot or by bike in a few hours. The largest part of the island is covered by dense pine forest, which is why it is often called the green island of the Saronic Gulf.

Access is exclusively by boat, as there is no airport. From Piraeus, Flying Dolphin high-speed ferries take 45 to 55 minutes, while conventional ferries take about one hour and forty minutes and usually make an intermediate stop in Aegina. During the summer, services are quite frequent, but they decrease significantly in winter, so if you are travelling outside of summer, it's a good idea to check the ferry schedule in advance.

The island's four main settlements are Skala, Megalochori (also known as Mylos), Metochi, and Skliri. Skala is the main port and commercial centre, with the most tavernas, bars, and shops. Megalochori has its own small harbour, an organised beach, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Between the two, a path through the pine forest connects the two settlements and is one of the island's most popular strolls.

Agistri's beaches are mainly sandy with shallow waters, making them ideal for families with young children. Dragonera is considered the most photographed beach, with white sand and turquoise waters, although access is mainly by bike, scooter, or on foot through the forest. Halikiada and Aponisos are also popular choices, while the main beaches of Skala and Megalochori cater to those who want organised sun loungers and nearby access to food.

Local cuisine is based on fresh fish, seafood, and simple meze dishes, with many tavernas serving dishes based on local produce. In Skala, you'll find the widest variety of restaurants, while in Megalochori, options are fewer but equally good quality, usually with sea views.

The best time to visit is from mid-May to the end of September, with July and August being the busiest months, mainly due to its proximity to Athens and the island's popularity for day trips. In May, June, and September, you'll find quieter beaches and lower accommodation prices, while many accommodations close completely in winter.

Agistri was formerly known as Kyra or Kekryfaleia, a name found in ancient sources, while its current name is believed to come from the shape of its coastline, which resembles a fishing hook (agistri). The permanent residents number a few hundred, but in August, the population multiplies, mainly with visitors from Athens who come for one or two days. Geologically, the island is hilly, with its highest point not exceeding 175 metres, which makes walking routes easy even for those who are not particularly fit.

A path approximately 6 km long encircles the southern part of the island, starting from Skala and passing through dense pine forest to Dragonera and Aponisos, with views towards Aegina and Methana. The route takes about two hours at a leisurely pace and is shaded for almost its entire length, which is rare for an island in the Cyclades or Saronic Gulf. Many visitors combine the walk with a stop for a swim in one of the small coves they encounter along the way.

Those arriving first in Aegina can continue to Agistri by local caique, a journey of about 20 minutes, an alternative to direct routes from Piraeus which sell out quickly in the summer.

The best areas to stay in Agistri

Skala

Skala is the arrival point for most ferries and the commercial centre of the island. Here you will find the largest concentration of accommodations, tavernas, mini-markets, and bicycle and scooter rentals.

Advantages:

• Close to the port, ideal if you don't have your own transport
• Many dining and entertainment options
• Organised beach with sun loungers

Disadvantages:

• More traffic and noise in the evenings during July and August
• Less peaceful compared to other areas

Recommended accommodations:

1. Saronis Hotel Agistri
An adults-only hotel just a few steps from Skala beach, with well-kept rooms and family hospitality.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

2. Agistri Hotel
A classic hotel in the centre of Skala with direct access to the beach and good guest ratings.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

3. Hotel Abatis
A two-star hotel with balconies and a terrace, popular for its location near the centre of Skala.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

4. Aktaion Beach Boutique Hotel & Spa
A boutique hotel with a private beach, spa, and swimming pool, one of the most upgraded accommodation options on the island.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

5. Anagennisi Hotel
A renovated hotel next to Skala port, with marina views and affordable prices.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

6. Artemis Hotel Agistri
A hotel on the best corner of Skala beach, with rooms offering sea views.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

7. Green Island
Accommodation with simple and clean rooms, near the centre of Skala, suitable for budget holidays.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

8. Oasis Skala Beach
Accommodation next to Skala beach with comfortable rooms and easy access to tavernas and shops.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

Megalochori (Mylos)

Megalochori, also known as Mylos, is the second largest settlement on the island. It has a more relaxed pace than Skala, an organised sandy beach, and several family-run hospitality businesses.

Advantages:

• Quieter atmosphere than Skala
• Good beach with shallow waters, ideal for families
• Picturesque small harbour with tavernas

Disadvantages:

• Fewer evening entertainment options
• Requires a short journey to reach Skala

Recommended accommodations:

9. Sunrise Studios
Family-run studios in traditional style, with sea views and comfortable verandas, located within the settlement of Megalochori.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

10. Studio Mare
An apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, suitable for couples or small families who want independence.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

11. The Milos
One of the oldest accommodations on the island, with a swimming pool and family management for over 50 years.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

12. Hotel Theris
A hotel a few metres from Megalochori beach, with a restaurant and panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

13. Flisvos Hotel Agistri
A traditional two-star hotel, about 40 metres from the sandy beach of Megalochori.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

Skliri

Skliri is a small location within the pine forest, about a ten-minute walk from Skala port. It combines the tranquillity of nature with direct access to the sea.

Advantages:

• Peaceful environment amidst pine trees
• Close to the sea with rocky and sandy spots for swimming
• Short walking distance from Skala

Disadvantages:

• Fewer dining options in the area
• Requires walking or transport to shops

Recommended accommodations:

14. Alkyoni
A complex of rooms at the edge of the forest, with private beach access and an on-site taverna.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

15. Rosys Little Village
A family-run complex of rooms built like a small village, by the sea and amidst pine trees.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

Metochi and surrounding areas

Metochi is located inland, between Skala and Dragonera, with fewer accommodations but more tranquillity. It is a good base for those who want to explore the island's paths.

Advantages:

• Absolute tranquillity, away from the bustle of Skala
• Close to natural paths and Dragonera
• An option for those seeking a true escape

Disadvantages:

• Requires transport for getting around
• Much fewer accommodation and dining options

Recommended accommodations:

16. Agistri Apartments
Apartments with verandas and views, in a quiet location in Skala near the road to Metochi.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book ferry tickets early in July and August. High-speed ferries from Piraeus fill up quickly during the summer months, especially on weekends. Book tickets at least two weeks in advance if you're travelling then.
• Rent a bicycle or scooter. The island does not have organised public transport apart from a few taxis. A bicycle or scooter gives you the freedom to visit all the beaches.
• Go to Dragonera early in the morning. It is the most popular beach and fills up quickly. If you want to enjoy it more peacefully, go before ten in the morning.
• Prefer May, June, or September for tranquillity. Outside of July and August, the island is much calmer, with lower accommodation prices and less crowded beaches.
• Ask if the accommodation operates all year round. Many smaller accommodations in Agistri close from October to April, so confirm availability before booking outside of summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Agistri from Piraeus?

Approximately 37 km, with the high-speed ferry taking 45 to 55 minutes, while with a conventional ferry it takes about one hour and forty minutes, usually with an intermediate stop in Aegina.

Do you need a car in Agistri?

Not necessarily. The island is small and you can explore it on foot, by bicycle, or scooter. Cars are not commonly rented due to the island's size.

Which is the best area for families with children?

Megalochori and Skala, as they have organised sandy beaches with shallow waters and easy access to food and shops.

Are accommodations open all year round?

Not all of them. Many smaller accommodations operate only from May to October, while larger hotels often remain open for more months.

What is the most famous beach on the island?

Dragonera, with white sand and turquoise waters, is considered Agistri's most photographed beach.

How many days are enough to see Agistri?

Two to three days are enough to visit the main beaches and settlements, although many visitors also choose it for short weekend getaways.

Conclusion

Agistri is ideal for those seeking a quick escape from Athens without a long journey, offering nature, quiet beaches, and simple, hospitable accommodation. The choice of area mainly depends on how close you want to be to the bustle of Skala or the tranquillity of the pine trees.

Whichever area you choose, book your accommodation early during the summer months, as available places are limited due to the island's small size.

See also our guides on where to stay in Anafi and where to stay in Areopoli.