Port Guide | Greece | Worth a Wander
Spetses
David Nakamura | Editor
Published on 2025-07-04
Congratulations, you've officially landed in Spetses, an island whose determination to stay car-free is either delightfully charming or secretly a conspiracy to sell more sandals-either way, it works. You're now amidst a stunning little Greek paradise famous for pirate-busting heroines (this is where national folk hero Laskarina Bouboulina led revolutionaries, guns blazing, against Ottoman ships), mesmerizingly photogenic mansions, and nightlife that requires stamina rivaling the islanders' resistance to motorized transport. You've got two to five days ashore: enough time to stroll leisurely-yet proudly blister-free, thanks to your sensible footwear-across cobblestone streets, soak up beaches as Instagram-friendly as they come, and spend evenings sipping ouzo or cocktails by the harbor, watching yacht crews try (and spectacularly fail) to out-party locals. Welcome to Spetses; the only car horn you'll hear is the occasional impatient donkey bray.
Greece has 10 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Spetses is famous for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The island is car-free, which adds to its charm. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking around the cobblestone streets.
Where do cruise ships dock in Spetses?
Port Name Spetses
Country Greece
Region Southeast Europe
Ship Terminal Spetses Port
Port Type Tender port
Accessibility The port is located within walking distance (approximately 0.5 km) of the town center, making it easily accessible for travelers.
What's the weather like in Spetses?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes During the peak summer months, temperatures can be high with minimal rainfall; good weather for outdoor activities. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional gusty winds.
Temperature Range 75F to 90F (24C to 32C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 50F
Average Temp 70F
What do I need to know about Spetses?
Language Greek
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 3,000
Timezone EET (UTC+2)
How do I get around Spetses?
Walking is the main mode of transportation, as vehicles are restricted in many areas. There are local buses and horse-drawn carriages available for sightseeing.
What are The Best Things to do in Spetses?
Discover what you should do while you're in Spetses.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Armata Festival Reenactment
Spetses Old Harbor
Witness a vivid reenactment of a historic naval battle, unique to Spetses, complete with fireworks and celebrations.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Spetses Traditional Boat Building
Old Harbor Workshops
Observe the traditional art of wooden boat crafting that flourishes uniquely here.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Handmade Pottery Workshop
Workshop Street, Spetses
Create your own pottery guided by local artists, a unique keepsake opportunity.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Greek Dance Classes
Dance Theatre, Spetses
Participate in traditional Greek dance lessons typical to Southeast Europe.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Fisherman's Boat Trip and Fishing
Harbor Dock, Spetses
Join local fishermen for a unique, authentic fishing experience.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Carriage Ride through Spetses Town
Main Square, Spetses
Traditional horse-drawn carriage ride offering unique views and local culture.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Visit to Bouboulina Museum
Bouboulina Museum, Spetses
Explore the museum dedicated to a Greek heroine, unique in Southeast Europe.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Attend Live Bouzouki Music
Taverna Delphini, Spetses
Enjoy authentic Greek music live, a Southeastern European staple.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Explore the Mansion of Anargyros
Anargyros Mansion, Spetses
Beautiful historic mansion with intriguing local history.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Explore Sea Caves of Spetses
Agioi Anargyroi Beach
Snorkel or swim inside mystical sea caves, an ecstatic experience exclusive to Spetses.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Nighttime Sea Kayaking
Agia Marina Beach
Experience kayaking under moonlight, an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure.
Distance from Terminal: 1.8 miles
Hiking Panagia Armata Monastery
Panagia Armata Monastery, Spetses
A rewarding hike with historical significance and great views.
Distance from Terminal: 1.9 miles
Underwater Antiquities Diving
Dive Center Spetses
Dive to see submerged artifacts, uniquely Southeast European experience.
Distance from Terminal: 2.2 miles
Overnight Trips
Sail to Nearby Hydra Island
N/A
Take a boat tour to the car-free island of Hydra, well known across Southeast Europe.
Distance from Terminal: 22 miles
A Little Extra
Local Olive Oil Tasting
Olive Groves, Spetses Countryside
Taste locally-produced olive oil, a regional specialty.
Distance from Terminal: 3.8 miles
Open-Air Cinema Experience
Cine Titania, Spetses
Watch movies under the stars, a classic summer activity in these islands.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Traditional Loukoumades Tasting
Central Bakery, Spetses
Try traditional Greek donuts, unique Southeast European dessert.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Greece Regional Tip
Entering churches or monasteries in revealing clothing Visitors are often denied entry or asked to leave if dressed improperly (e.g., shorts, sleeveless tops).