How long is the drive from Athens to Kosta port?

The journey follows the scenic Saronic Gulf coastline; exact drive time depends on traffic, but the experience is designed to be a relaxed part of the excursion, not a rushed transfer.

Is the ferry crossing included, or do I pay separately?

The supplier description indicates the ferry to Spetses is part of the excursion; confirm ferry costs with your tour operator at booking.

Can I explore Spetses on my own, or is it a guided tour?

The itinerary includes a horse-drawn carriage ride and access to Dapia harbour; you have freedom to walk, swim, and dine independently, with your guide available for local recommendations.

Are meals and drinks included in the EUR 498 price?

The price is per-person for the private excursion; meals at tavernas and café drinks are payable locally unless otherwise specified. Confirm inclusions at booking.

What if I want to visit Spetses by ferry on a different day?

This is a full-day private tour combining transport and exploration; you can alternatively take a public ferry from Piraeus or Kosta if you prefer flexibility, though you'll miss the scenic private drive.

Is swimming/snorkelling possible, and are there facilities?

Yes—Spetses has secluded beaches accessible on foot and by water taxi. Beach bars and tavernas provide basic facilities; bring your own snorkel gear or rent locally.

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Private Excursion at Spetses Island

(5)

Athens, Greece

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About this activity

Escape Athens for a full-day private excursion to Spetses, a car-free island famous for its role in the 1821 Greek War of Independence. Explore neoclassical architecture, hidden beaches, and waterfront tavernas on a scenic drive through the Saronic Gulf to the port of Kosta, followed by ferry passage to this serene, French Riviera–style destination.

Instead of just transferring you to Piraeus Port to catch the ferry, you will have the chance to kick back and enjoy the drive along the Saronic Gulf to the edge of Argolic region. We will catch the ferry to cosmopolitan Spetses from the port of Kosta.

Boasting a naval tradition, SPETSES is known for her significant contribution during the 1821 War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire!

A serene idyllic spice island, feeling like the French Riviera, you will be enchanted by the neoclassical houses and villas, doomed churches fringed by cafes, traditional tavernas lining the road and stylish boutiques!

Take a romantic trip around the island on a horse-drawn carriage admiring the grand mansions adoring the narrow cobbled streets. Dapia,the main port is surrounded by cannons and provides a romantic place for a day coffee or an evening drink. You will enjoy long promenades both in the sea and country side.

The smell of the sea and the secluded beaches will therapeutically captivate you!

Highlights

✓Scenic coastal drive from Athens through the Saronic Gulf to Kosta port
✓Ferry crossing to car-free Spetses Island with minimal tourist crowds
✓Horse-drawn carriage ride through cobbled streets lined with historic neoclassical mansions
✓Dapia harbour with cannons, waterfront cafés, and tavernas for lunch or drinks
✓Freedom to explore secluded beaches and take long coastal and countryside walks
✓Rich naval and independence-war heritage with period architecture and local storytelling

Insider tips

★Pack a light scarf or cardigan—the sea breeze can cool quickly, especially during ferry crossings and waterfront time
★Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes for uneven cobbled streets and beach exploration; heels are impractical on Spetses
★Arrive early at Dapia for the best light and smallest crowds; locals favour late-afternoon coffee before evening drinks
★Ask your guide for lesser-known beach coves accessible by foot—they're typically quieter than the main shores

Good to know

•12-hour duration includes drive time to/from Kosta port, ferry crossing, and island exploration; plan accordingly for photo stops
•No cars allowed on the island—all transport is by foot, horse carriage, or water taxi; the private car picks you up only for the mainland portion
•Bring sunscreen, hat, and water; sunbeds and tavernas are available but not pre-booked
•Ferry schedules from Kosta are seasonal; departure times may shift in low season—confirm with your guide the day before
•Accessible for moderate fitness levels; cobbled streets and beach walks require steady footing rather than strenuous climbing

Who it's for

Couples seeking romantic, quieter Mediterranean islands away from Mykonos and SantoriniHistory enthusiasts interested in Greek War of Independence heritage and neoclassical architecturePhotography and culture lovers wanting charming streets, coastal light, and authentic taverna mealsTravellers preferring private transport and flexible pacing over crowded group tours

Best time to visit

Visit April–June or September–October for warm, calm seas and pleasant temperatures without summer crowds. Arrive at Dapia mid-morning to secure good beach time and lunch spots before afternoon rush; late-day returns offer golden-hour photography and quieter taverna experiences.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Anya T.

Apr 2026

our guide Pedro really knew their stuff and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight. Used it for our summer trip so it wasnt too busy. First thing in the morning, and came away with 200+ photos. Would book again no question, no joke

Adam V.

Nov 2025

our guide Jonas couldnt do enough for us and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight, and honestly better than the tour we did in Bangkok last year.

Mark P.

Aug 2025

a stop the guide added on the fly ok but rushed, not as good as the one we did in Dubrovnik tbh

Megan R.

Jul 2025

Diego our guide was class, blew our Seville one out of the water

Zoe V.

Jul 2025

our guide Noa sorted everything for us and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight, and honestly better than the tour we did in Bali last year.

from€498/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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