Poros is a small, charming island in the Saronic Gulf that is separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow channel that’s only about 200 meters (656 feet) wide at its narrowest point.
Ferries travel between Poros and the mainland town of Galatas frequently, with the journey taking just a few minutes.
It is a quiet place, ideal for holidays with the family and one of Athenians’ favorite destinations for a weekend away. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, with lush vegetation, quaint harbor town, and lovely beaches.
The island is actually made up of two smaller islands, Spheria and Kalavria, which are connected by a bridge. Spheria is the volcanic island where the main town, Poros Town, is located.
The town is built on a hillside overlooking the harbor and is full of colorful neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and charming shops and restaurants.
The most remarkable building is the Clock Tower, dating back to 1927. The tower stands at the highest point of the city and very much resembles a lighthouse.
The Archaeological Museum of Poros showcases the most important moments of the history of the island. It also has exhibits from the Temple of Poseidon located in Kalavria.
The exact date of construction is debated by archaeologists, with estimates ranging from the 6th century BC to 520 BC. It was a significant sanctuary in its day, and according to some sources, even formed a religious alliance with other city-states known as an amphictyony.
The temple was built in the Doric architectural style, a simple yet powerful style characterized by fluted columns and a triangular pediment. Its dimensions were substantial, measuring 27.4 meters long by 14.4 meters wide (approximately 90 feet by 47 feet). Some of the columns display influences from the Ionian architectural style, suggesting a blend of influences in its construction.
On the west coast of Poros, the Holy Monastery of Zoodochu Pigis offers stunning views of the sea. The old monastery is an integral part of the story of the island.
It was founded by Ioakovos the II, Archbishop of Athens, after a healing miracle he experienced after drinking water from a spring in the area. The monastery is also home to a church with impressive paintings and a magnificent wooden icon from Cappadocia.
Poros has many beautiful beaches with clear waters and soft sand. Some of the most popular beaches include:
Askeli Beach: A long, sandy beach with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, as well as tavernas serving fresh seafood.
Perivoli Beach: A small, sheltered beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Kanali Beach: A popular beach with water sports facilities, perfect for families and those who enjoy being active.
Poros boasts several excellent waterfront restaurants serving fresh, delicious seafood dishes.
It is possible to reach Poros from Piraeus in about an hour, but also from the nearby town of Galatas, in the Peloponnese, about 400 meters from the island.
This little town, ideal for a day visit, is surrounded by an ancient lemon forest, known as lemondassos, home to over 30,000 fragrant old trees and traditional water mills.
In December 2023 Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that Poros will become the third “green island” in the Aegean following the islands of Astypalaia and Halki.
The transformation of Poros into a green island is based on four key aspects, as conveyed by the Premier, Greek ministers added:
• Building a photovoltaic park to cover a significant part of the island’s annual energy needs;
• Powering the ferry connection between Poros and Galatas on the mainland with electricity, and also developing an e-ship to that effect;
• Boosting overall e-mobility in both public and private transportation;
• Developing a new system of circular economy based on recycling and proper utilization of waste.
Related: International Show on Poros, Greece Attracts Over 100 Yachts
