Overview
Timeless, elegant, and effortlessly close — the Saronic Islands are where heritage meets convenience. This group of islands, also known as Argosaronic Islands, are a small, strategically located island group just off the coast of Athens in the Saronic Gulf.
Known for their proximity to the capital, rich maritime heritage, and accessible elegance, they are ideal for buyers seeking weekend retreats, year-round homes, or low-profile luxury.
The main islands in the Saronic group include:
- Hydra
- Spetses
- Aegina
- Poros
- Salamina
- Agistri
- Dokos
Most are accessible within 30–90 minutes from Piraeus Port (Athens) by high-speed ferry or private yacht, making them the closest island destinations to the mainland.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
The Saronic Islands offer a refined, understated version of Greek island life — calm, elegant, and culturally rich. They are favored by Athenian elites, artists, writers, and low-key international buyers.
Highlights include:
- Neoclassical mansions, pine forests, and scenic harbors
- Year-round local communities and seasonal privacy
- Charming waterfront promenades, cafes, and markets
- Limited car use on islands like Hydra and Spetses, preserving their tranquil character
Property Market & Investment Appeal
The Saronic Islands offer one of Greece’s most consistent, exclusive, and low-turnover property markets. With strict architectural controls, limited land availability, and proximity to Athens, values remain resilient and demand steady — especially on Hydra and Spetses.
Average Prices Across the Saronic Islands:
- €3,500–€5,000 per sqm in Aegina, Poros, and Agistri
- €6,000–€10,000+ per sqm in prime Hydra and Spetses locations
- €12,000+ per sqm for heritage mansions or waterfront estates
Buyers typically include wealthy Athenians, European families, and expats seeking relaxed but cultured island living.
Spotlight: Hydra
Hydra is one of Greece’s most distinctive and protected markets.
- Car-free and preserved by law, all transport is on foot, donkey, or boat.
- Architecture is regulated — only traditional stone mansions or restorations are allowed.
- Properties are concentrated around Hydra Town, Kamini, and Vlychos.
Average Prices Hydra:
- €6,000–€9,000 per sqm for traditional homes inland
- €10,000–€14,000+ per sqm for sea-facing neoclassical mansions or rare estate homes
Hydra appeals to artists, academics, collectors, and those who value quiet prestige over flashy tourism. The low supply and strong emotional appeal make it one of Greece’s most exclusive real estate destinations.
Spotlight: Spetses
Spetses is elegant, green, and favored by Greek and international elites.
- Car-free in summer, accessible year-round by water taxi or ferry
- Features luxury villas, captain’s homes, and historic mansions
- High-profile marina and easy sailing access from Athens
Average Prices Spetses:
€6,000–€9,000 per sqm in areas like Dapia, Kounoupitsa, and Old Port- €10,000–€13,000+ per sqm for renovated mansions with sea views or prime locations
Spetses is prized for its cosmopolitan aura, secure environment, and event calendar (e.g. Spetsathlon, Armata Festival), making it ideal for both lifestyle buyers and strategic investors.
Notable Islands in the Saronic Gulf
- Hydra – Car-free, artistic, and exclusive; known for neoclassical captains’ mansions
- Spetses – Cosmopolitan, pine-covered, and elegant; elite summer destination with excellent marina
- Aegina – Vibrant year-round island with good infrastructure and affordability
- Poros – Family-friendly, with naval heritage and quiet charm
- Agistri – Small, green, and ideal for tranquil retreats
- Salamina – Largest and closest to Athens, mostly local market
Why Consider Buying Property in the Saronic Islands?
- Easy access from Athens — ideal for weekend homes or commuting
- Low-key luxury and privacy without long travel times
- Strong demand for boutique hotels and luxury rentals
- Unique heritage architecture and limited new development
- Ideal for retirees, creatives, and lifestyle investors
