The hydrofoils arrive at the capital of Aigina, Aigina City. Also known as Aigina Town, or simply as "Hora", the Greek word for capital, the clean, inviting streets and sidewalk tavernas offer a wide selection of Greek food.
There's an easy local bus to take to the interior of the island which you can pick up by the Temple of Apollo just off the port. On the way, you'll pass by the largest church in Greece, Agios Nektorios.
The crowning jewel of Aigina is the splendid temple of Aphaea (Efea), which is a well-preserved example of Doric architecture. Aphaea is a mermaid goddess, transplanted from Crete, where she was known as Britomartis and inhabited, among other places, the lovely lagoon of Elounda. This temple is reached by an inexpensive public bus from the west side of Aigina Town. Also associated with the divine huntress Artemis, the rich forest surrounding the Aphaea's temple keeps it relatively cool, even in summer.
Skip the overpriced cafe directly across from the temple, and instead, wander into any of the restaurants along Dimokratias street, bordering the port. Venture a block inland beyond Dimokratias to discover a variety of boutiques and get a closer look at the ornate ironwork decorating many Aeginian houses.
Aegina has a number of pleasant hotels and pensions.
One of the don't-miss purchases on Aigina are the wonderful, cheap pistachios. They make great treats to share with fellow travelers on the hydrofoils.
