Poros is one of the most accessible Greek islands — just two hours from Athens by hydrofoil — yet it retains a genuine island character that makes it feel far removed from the city. The narrow channel between Poros and the Peloponnese coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the Saronic Gulf, and the view from the island's clock tower over the channel and the mountains beyond is one of the great views in Greece.

The Island

Poros is actually two islands connected by a narrow isthmus: the smaller, rocky Sferia, where the main town is located, and the larger, pine-covered Kalavria. The main settlement, Poros Town, climbs the hill of Sferia in a cascade of white and terracotta houses, topped by the famous blue clock tower.

Sights and Attractions

Poros Town is the island's great attraction — a beautiful, lively harbour town with a waterfront of cafes and tavernas, narrow lanes climbing the hill and the iconic Clock Tower at the top, offering panoramic views over the channel to the Peloponnese.

The Temple of Poseidon on Kalavria is one of the most historically significant sites in the Saronic Gulf — the ancient sanctuary where the orator Demosthenes took refuge and died in 322 BC. Little remains above ground, but the setting is beautiful.

The Archaeological Museum in Poros Town holds finds from the Temple of Poseidon and other local sites.

Lemonodasos — the lemon forest — on the Peloponnese coast opposite Poros is a remarkable grove of thousands of lemon trees, easily visited by boat.

Beaches

Poros has several good beaches on Kalavria. Kanali is the most popular — a long, sandy beach with clear water and good facilities. Askeli is a quieter alternative. Russian Bay (Ormos Russou) is a beautiful, sheltered cove named after the Russian fleet that anchored here in the 19th century.

Eating and Drinking

The waterfront in Poros Town has excellent tavernas and cafes. Caravella is the local favourite for fish; Oasis serves good mezedes. The island is lively in summer, with a young, Athenian crowd adding energy to the evenings.

How to Get There

Poros is served by hydrofoil and ferry from Piraeus (around 2 hours by hydrofoil, 3.5 hours by ferry). It also connects to Hydra, Spetses and the other Saronic islands.

Best For

Poros suits travellers who want an easy, beautiful island escape from Athens — those who want to combine it with Hydra and Spetses on a Saronic island-hopping itinerary, or those who want to explore the nearby Peloponnese coast.

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Thinking about Poros? Talk to us — we can build it into a Saronic island itinerary that takes in Hydra, Spetses and Aegina.