Spetses Island Day Private Trip From Athens

A day trip to Spetses offers a perfect escape from Athens, especially for those looking for a mix of culture, seaside relaxation, and charming architecture. Priced at $169 per person, this 10-hour private tour starts with pickup from one of 19 Athens locations, making it flexible and convenient. The journey covers Corinth Canal, Porto Cheli, and a ferry ride to the island, culminating in a full exploration of Spetses’ picturesque streets, beaches, and museums.

What makes this tour stand out is its private nature, with air-conditioned transportation and a professional driver who has a deep knowledge of the area, although not licensed as a tour guide. The 3.05 hours of free time in Spetses allow visitors to explore at their own pace, shop, dine, or simply relax on the crystal-clear beaches. The inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and WiFi onboard adds value to this well-rounded day trip, ideal for those seeking an intimate experience.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the 10-hour tour.
• The cost of $169 covers pick-up and drop-off from multiple Athens locations, making logistics simple.
• Highlights include walking along the waterfront, visiting the Bouboulina Museum, and exploring cobbled streets filled with fragrant gardens.
• You’ll have over 3 hours of free time on Spetses to enjoy beaches, shopping, and local food.
• The ferry transfer to the island takes 15 minutes, offering scenic views en route.
• Note that museum tickets and boat tickets (if needed) are not included, so plan accordingly.

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Pickup and Transportation Details from Athens to Spetses

The tour departs from 19 different pickup points across Athens, including popular neighborhoods like Kallithea, Glyfada, and Nea Smyrni. The driver arrives in an air-conditioned vehicle, such as a MiniVan, Mercedes Benz, or New Skoda Fabia (2023 model), with WiFi and bottled water provided on board. This makes early morning pickups and the entire day’s transit smooth and comfortable.

The journey to Corinth Canal lasts about 15 minutes, where a quick stop allows for photos and sightseeing. From there, travelers pass by Porto Cheli, and then take a 15-minute ferry across to Spetses. The transportation arrangement ensures that guests have a seamless transfer from Athens to the island, with hotel, Airbnb, port, cruise terminal, or airport pickups included.

Exploring the Highlights of Spetses

Upon arriving in Spetses, visitors are encouraged to enjoy a walking tour of the town’s distinctive architecture and fragrant gardens filled with jasmine and bougainvillaea. The waterfront is particularly charming, offering beautiful views and a chance to see the exotic mansion of Sotirios Anargyros, built in 1904 and guarded by Egyptian sphinxes.

The Bouboulina Museum is a key stop, commemorating Lascarina Bouboulina, a formidable female hero of the Greek Revolution. The museum provides insight into her role in Greek history and her prominence among the island’s historical figures. The church of Panagia Armata also features during the tour, offering a glimpse into the island’s spiritual sites.

Free Time and Beach Options in Spetses

The tour provides over 3 hours of free time for personal exploration. Visitors often use this to stroll along the promenade, shop for local crafts, or sample regional cuisine. Many choose to swim at the beaches, where crystal waters invite relaxing dips. The beaches are known for their gorgeous settings, perfect for lounging or taking photographs.

During this time, exploring the cobblestone streets reveals hidden boutiques and cafes. The fragrant gardens, filled with jasmine and bougainvillaea, offer a sensory delight as visitors amble through the town. Be aware that lunch is not included, so planning ahead for a meal is advisable.

Visiting the Iconic House of Sotirios Anargyros

A highlight of the trip is seeing the 1904 mansion of Sotirios Anargyros, located just a few minutes from the main town. The exotic sphinxes guarding the property add a touch of mystery and elegance to the visit. This site provides a glimpse into the island’s historical wealth and notable residents.

While guided commentary is not provided for every site, the driver’s knowledge of the area helps enrich the experience. The tour’s focus on walking and free time allows for personal exploration at each stop.

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The Scenic Ferry Ride to Spetses

The 15-minute ferry crossing from Porto Cheli to Spetses offers a scenic view of the sea and surrounding landscape. Passengers can enjoy the fresh air and take photos of the gorgeous coastline. The ferry is an efficient way to reach the island, contributing to the relaxed pace of the day.

The ferry transfer is included in the schedule, but boat tickets for additional trips or private water taxis are not included and cost around €8.50 per person for one way or €150 per group for a private water taxi.

The Flexibility of a Private Tour in Spetses

This private tour allows guests to customize their experience within the allocated free time. Whether visiting local museums, shopping, or just relaxing at the beach, each traveler can tailor their day. The driver remains available for transfers but is not licensed to guide at sites, so independent exploration is encouraged.

The comfort and convenience of private transportation, combined with the scenic itinerary, make this tour a valuable option for those wanting a hassle-free day trip with personalized freedom.

Practicalities and Additional Costs

While the tour includes transport, snacks, bottled water, and WiFi, museum and archaeological site tickets are not included. Tour participants should budget for these separately. Also, lunch is self-paid, giving flexibility to dine where and when guests prefer.

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if plans change. Booking is simple, with the option to reserve now and pay later, making this a flexible choice for spontaneous plans or detailed trip planning.

Who Will Appreciate This Trip Most?

This trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day. It suits visitors who enjoy strolling through charming streets, visiting museums, and relaxing on scenic beaches. The private nature of the tour makes it perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a more personal experience. Travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of walking and some travel time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time in Spetses.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, giving flexibility to choose your preferred dining options.

Is the guide with me during site visits?
No, the driver is not licensed to guide at the sites. They provide local knowledge during transfers, but sightseeing is self-guided.

What are the pickup locations?
There are 19 pickup points across Athens, including neighborhoods like Kallithea, Glyfada, and Nea Smyrni.

How do I get to Spetses from Athens?
You are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Corinth Canal, then cross 15 minutes by ferry to the island.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if you plan to swim, and cash or cards for personal expenses like museum or boat tickets.

Are the transportation arrangements flexible?
Yes, the private transportation and pickup/drop-off options provide convenience and flexibility.

Can I customize the free time in Spetses?
Yes, the over 3 hours of free time allows for personal exploration, shopping, or relaxing on the beaches.

Are there any hidden costs?
Additional costs include museum tickets and boat tickets if you choose to visit other sites or take extra boat trips.

What is the rating of this tour?
This experience holds a rating of 4.6, reflecting its popularity and positive feedback for comfort and scenery.

This private trip to Spetses from Athens offers a well-balanced mix of cultural exploration, seaside relaxation, and scenic scenery. Its private setup ensures comfort and flexibility, making it suitable for those who prefer a personalized experience without the pressure of large group tours. With scenic stops, museum visits, and free time on the island, it provides a comprehensive taste of Spetses’ charm in just a single day.

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