Property Buyer's Guide to Ermioni Town

If you are in Ermioni as a house buyer, the information you need to find out is completely different from when you come as a tourist or visitor just for a holiday. This page, addresses some of the points you should consider during your house-hunting in this area of the Peloponnese, and Ermioni itself, to ensure you view not just the right house but the best area for you. For example, if you a looking to buy a family home with young children, you might consider what clubs or activities everyone might want to take part in. Owning a property in Ermioni has responsibilities and costs associated. This page will help you to think about the properties you are looking at from the perspective of being a homeowner in in this lovely Greek town.

Ermioni is a charming coastal town on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese in the Argolis region of Greece, renowned for its picturesque harbour, crystal-clear waters and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Surrounded by olive groves, pine-covered hills and the beautiful Aegean coastline, Ermioni combines the character of a traditional Greek fishing village with an increasingly popular destination for visitors seeking tranquillity, natural beauty and authentic Greek culture. Its attractive waterfront is lined with cafés, tavernas and small shops, while the nearby Bisti peninsula provides scenic walking trails and spectacular sea views. With its historic character, strong connection to the sea, proximity to islands such as Hydra and Spetses, and easy access from Athens, Ermioni offers a distinctive blend of traditional village life and contemporary tourism.

Statistics & Useful Numbers

Population: 2,842

Yes Ermioni qualifies buyers for Greek Golden Visa re size of population.

It is not one of the areas subject to the €800,000 threshold.

National Administration Region: Argolis

Local Administration: Ermionida Municipality

Land Mass: 168.18 m2 (this is for the whole Muncipality including Thermisia and Iiiokastro)

Latitude: 37.386° N - Longitude: 23.247° E

(TK) Post Code: 210 51

Ermioni Regional Medical Centre (State-Run) +30 2754 031224

Health Centre (Kranidi) +30 2754 022222

Police Station +30 2754 440150

Port Authority +30 2754 031243

Post Office (Kranidi) +30 2754 021497

Tourist Police (Napflio) +30 27520 98728

Taxis +30 2754 031060

Bus Service +30 2754 021237 / 2754 021218

National Bank of Greece (Kranidi) +30 2754 027021

Alpha Bank (Kranidi) +30 2754 022251

Ermioni Current Property Market Prices

The Ermioni property market is currently relatively strong, with asking prices around €3,007 per m² on average for residential property as of August 2026. This represents an approximately 4.85% increase compared with August 2025. It is important to note that these are advertised asking prices, not completed sale prices. Current prices for the whole area should be treated with care but are shown as: Ermioni Centre€3,060/m²+3.7% Thermisia€2,926/m²+12.0% Iliokastro€1,345/m²+62.8% Ermioni overall€3,007/m²+4.85% The very large percentage increase shown for Iliokastro should be treated cautiously because the number of properties being advertised there is small. There is a large range of properties and prices in Ermioni and the immediate areas ranging from €75,000 to €2 million. Ermioni, for a property purchase, can make alot of sense for both the second home market, the permenant resident and the buy to let investor. It is in a beautiful part of the Peloponnese and within striking distance of some lovely towns and all this area has to offer but it is also a quick trip to the nearest islands of Hydra, Spetses, Aegina and Poros. It has a good and steady tourist trade but is also a solid working, yet charming, Greek coastal town.

Due Diligence Before You Buy

The biggest issue when buying property on Aegina is legal due diligence. I regard this as more important than finding the prettiest house. Before I commit to listing a property, I do quite a bit of documentation checking. This includes: title and ownership history mortgages, liens and other encumbrances (such as outstanding legal cases with neighbour disputes_ whether the boundaries on the ground match the title whether the house and extensions have the required planning/building approvals whether there are unauthorised structures that need legalization whether the land is legally buildable access rights/rights of way archaeological restrictions forestry-map issues coastline/beach restrictions zoning and future development restrictions whether utilities are legally connected This is particularly important with older island houses and rural plots. A property that looks like a bargain can become very expensive if part of the building isn't legally recognised or the supposed building plot isn't buildable.

Ermioni Property Buying Costs

The purchase price isn't your total acquisition cost. On top of the agreed purchase price, which will be written into the contract of sale by the Public Notary, you need to keep in mind approximately 11% of the contract price to cover your conveyancing costs. This includes: 3.1% Greece real-estate transfer (purchase) tax 2%+VAT agent's commission 1.9% Public Notary Fees 2%+VAT Lawyers Fee 1.5% Cadastre (The online Cadastre replaced the old land registry office on Aegina June 2025) So you will get a little bit of change if you keep 11% in mind during your calculations.

Do Ermioni Properties Qualify For A Greek Golden Visa

Yes. A property in Ermioni can qualify for the Greek Golden Visa, and Ermioni is generally in the €400,000 rather than €800,000 category. The current rules are: Ermioni is in Argolis, Peloponnese, which is outside the €800,000 zones (Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with more than 3,100 inhabitants). The standard threshold is therefore €400,000. For a normal residential purchase at €400,000, it generally must be one single property and have at least 120 m² of main living space The €400,000 is the acquisition value, not simply the property's asking price or valuation. The transaction/payment documentation needs to satisfy the Golden Visa requirements There are important €250,000 exceptions. These include certain properties where the main use is changed to residential, and qualifying listed/historic buildings being restored or reconstructed. The €120 m² requirement does not apply to the change-of-use €250,000 route. A property acquired for the Golden Visa cannot be used for short-term rental/Airbnb under the current rules.

Ermioni Property Rental Potential

Whilst the rental market in Ermioni serves as an authentic lower cost alternative to places such as the islands or even Porto Cheli, as usual the location and type of property is of utmost importance You are not simply buying rental income, you are buying an asset in a premium emerging coastal market within a mainland Greek town which has all the Peloponnese has to offer, plus good road links to Athens. The short term/holiday market is very much centred around May to September, and it is always important to calculate a possible 40-50% for your costs to come out of a possible yield. Important characteristics when choosing a property for possible rental when you aren’t using it are; Sea view / proximity to sea Private pool Outdoor entertaining area 2–4+ bedrooms Parking Good internet/Wi-Fi Air conditioning Modern kitchen and bathrooms Traditional Greek character combined with modern standards Entry Prices: Property purchases in Ermioni start around €400,000, making it more accessible than ultra-luxury enclaves nearby where mega-villas reach upwards of €10 million. Long-Term Rentals: Standard apartments or smaller maisonettes in the surrounding area can range from €350 to €400 per month, while larger detached or premium coastal maisonettes and villas, (around 170+ sq. m.) can command up to €2,500 per month. In Ermioni centre, the reported asking rent was about €8.59/m²/month, while Thermisia was about €7.86/m²/month. The data is quite volatile because the number of listings is small. Year-Round Community: Unlike purely seasonal resort islands, Ermioni functions as a working town with over 3,000 permanent residents, meaning local infrastructure, shops, and medical services stay open all year. Investment Potential: Many buyers purchase properties as second homes with the intent to leverage short-term or seasonal holiday rentals during peak summer months when demand from travellers visiting the Saronic Gulf (Hydra, Spetses) spikes. Ermioni - Town Centre and Harbour Best suited to smaller apartments, renovated village houses and two-bedroom properties within walking distance of tavernas, shops and the waterfront. Mandrakia – Southern side of the peninsula Worth investigating for traditional houses, waterfront apartments and properties with terraces or attractive sea views. Kouverta – a short drive to the couth of Ermioni with a pretty bay. Consider detached houses and villas with outdoor space, easy beach access and parking.Potentially suitable for families and groups looking for a quieter coastal holiday. Thermisia – a slightly inland, short drive, to the east of Ermioni. Worth exploring if you want a larger house, a holiday home with outdoor space, or a property away from the busiest part of town.

What To Look For When You View

You don't just buy a house in Ermioni, you are viewing a potential lifestyle change as well as the actual property. You need to consider when you view many extra questions, boring and not very exciting, such as where does the sewage go, can you walk to your favourite taverna or do you have to take a car. And you need to consider how much of your total buying budget is going to have to be reserved for making a property habitable for you to stay in. During my market surveys when I gather information prior to listing, I check a lot more than the items of information that I list for each property. I strongly recommend when viewing, that my potential buyers also check the following: Do the lights work? Does water come out of the taps? Are there signs of damp? Are there cracks? Is there a noisy dog living next door? What sort of condition are the roof and windows in? And so on.

Ermioni: The Port and Surrounding Areas

Whilst the main town and port of Ermioni is a perfect place for you to explore, rest and relax, the areas around the peninsula are also important and definitely worth a closer look. Ermioni town itself - Ermioni is built on a narrow, pine-covered peninsula, so the sea is very much part of the town. The two main sides are: Mandrakia — the picturesque waterfront This is probably the most attractive part of Ermioni for an evening stroll. It's the old fishing-harbour area, with boats, waterfront tavernas, cafés and narrow streets behind the seafront. The harbour is particularly lively in summer. You'll find places such as Tzieris and Mourayio Restaurant & lounge along the waterfront. Atmosphere: traditional Greek seaside village, fishing boats, restaurants, evening drinks. The main harbour / Limani The northern side of the peninsula is centred around the port, where ferries and smaller boats arrive. There are cafés, restaurants, accommodation and everyday shops around here. Ermioni Port is also useful if you're considering boat trips to places such as Hydra. Bisti — the green end of Ermioni At the tip of the peninsula is Bisti, a pine-covered area right beside the sea. It's one of the nicest places for walking in Ermioni, with paths through the trees and archaeological remains, including ancient temple foundations and parts of the ancient settlement. This is particularly good if you want a walk rather than a beach day. Krothi / Agios Gerasimos On the opposite side of town, the hill around Agios Gerasimos gives excellent views back across Ermioni and towards the sea. It's especially attractive around sunset. Thermisia - is about 12 km from Ermioni, and it's one of the more interesting areas if you enjoy scenery and history. The main attraction is Thermisia Castle, dramatically positioned on a rocky summit almost 300 m above the lagoon. The remains date through the Frankish, Byzantine and Venetian periods. The views over the lagoon and Argolic Gulf are one of the major reasons to go. I'd think of Thermisia as quieter, more rural and more scenic than Ermioni itself. Kranidi - is the principal inland town of the Ermionida area and is quite different from Ermioni. It's a working Greek town rather than a seaside resort, with shops, cafés and local services. One of its characteristic features is the collection of old windmills on the surrounding hills. Porto Cheli - larger harbour, yachts, villas, restaurants, beaches and a more upscale summer-resort atmosphere. Koilada - is another interesting village to explore, particularly if you like fishing villages and archaeology.It's north/west of Ermioni and has a more working-harbour feel. Nearby you'll find Lepitsa Beach, which has relatively shallow, warm water and is particularly suitable for families. The interesting attraction nearby is Franchthi Cave, an important prehistoric archaeological site. The archaeological authorities include it as part of a suggested Ermionida archaeological route. Katafiki Gorge - just inland from Ermioni is Katafiki Gorge, approximately 6 km northwest of the town. It's quite a contrast to the coastline: rocks, caves, vegetation and a much more rugged

The Ermioni Municipality

The important thing to understand is that Ermioni is a town within the Municipality of Ermionida. The municipality covers a wider area, including Ermioni, Kranidi, Porto Heli and Kilada. The main municipal administration/Town Hall is in Kranidi, rather than Ermioni itself.

Town Hall / Municipality

The Municipal Community of Ermioni. It is the local municipal office for Ermioni and can deal with matters specific to the town.

The official Municipality of Ermionida administration is based at:

Melinas Merkouri 11, 213 00 Kranidi
Telephone: 27543 60000

The municipality's official website is the best central source for municipal information, announcements, services, council decisions and contacts: ermionida.gr

Services available in Ermioni itself

This is particularly useful because you don't necessarily have to go to Kranidi.

KEP Ermioni – ΚΕΠ Ερμιόνης

This KEP is housed in the old Town Hall building and is recognised as the Local Town Hall. It is the in the Old Village (Palaio Chorio) of Ermioni, positioned on the hillside just above the main Limani harbour. It sits right next to the Ermioni Library.

The KEP (Citizens Service Centre) is usually the first place to try for routine Greek government paperwork and certificates.

The municipality lists:

Phone: 27543 60224

Email: d.ermionis@kep.gov.gr

The KEP system handles many applications and administrative services, and some services can also be initiated online through gov.gr.

Ermioni Electricity Supply

The local electricity distribution network is operated by ΔΕΔΔΗΕ (HEDNO), Greece’s electricity distribution-network operator. In Ermioni you can choose from the main Greek electricity suppliers; you are not restricted to a local provider. Some major options are: PPC (ΔΕΗ) — Greece’s largest electricity supplier Protergia — offers fixed, variable and dynamic electricity tariffs. HERON — offers fixed and variable home tariffs. And others including Volton, Elpedison and others. Once you purchase your property, you, or your lawyer will need to switch over the electricity into your name. This can all be done online. As part of my conveyancing service I ensure you get a copy of the last electricity bill, for the reference numbers, and a photograph taken on the day of completion, so you know exactly what the meter reading units are.

Community Tax and TV License on Your Electricity Bill

Throughout Greece, and Ermioni is no exception, property owners are charged a community tax , a property tax and a TV licence fee (even if they don't have a TV) via their electricity bill. Sometimes, for absent owners who haven't occupied their house for months, they are shocked to find an amount to pay. This is because even if they haven't used any electricity, they still have to pay the Municipal taxes and TV license. The amount of community tax due is based on a calculation using the m2 of the property and run through 3 different calculations. One of the first documents I ask my sellers for when I am doing my due diligence is a copy of their last electricity bill. If the number of m2 on their electricity bill is different from the m2 stated in their ownership title, I know I am going to find problems when I cross-reference their paperwork! Fortunately, any errors or omissions, or under declarations in community tax, stay with the seller and not passed on to the new owner. This is why I work with the buyer's lawyer to make sure that the electricity is switched over to the new owner as soon as possible.

Water Supply in Ermioni

For Ermioni, the water supply is handled by ΔΕΥΑΕΡ (DEYA Ermionidas) — the Municipal Water Supply & Sewerage Company of Ermionida. The Municipality of Ermionida lists DEYAER as the responsible utility. DEYA has a monitoring programme for drinking-water quality, including disinfection and residual chlorine. However, the municipality has acknowledged long-standing water-quality and infrastructure problems in parts of Ermionida. In particular, plans have been prepared to replace the ageing water network in Ermioni and Kranidi. The area has also had water-supply shortages, particularly during periods of drought. The municipality is investing in new treatment/desalination infrastructure, although the recently announced desalination projects are primarily for Kranidi/Koilada and Porto Heli, rather than Ermioni itself. Water bills / payments DEYAER handles: Domestic water supply Water meters and connections Water bills and payments Water-supply faults Sewerage services Their customer-service/payment office is in Kranidi, rather than Ermioni. The published contact number is +30 27540 22945. You can also pay your bill online, at the KEP, at the cash deck in Kranidi or by Direct Debit of course.

Can you drink the tap water in Ermioni

There are historical concerns about water quality in the wider Ermionida municipality, and I found a January 2026 report alleging microbiological contamination at some local sampling points, including E. coli at Didyma and elevated bacteria at Loukaiti. I couldn’t find a current official 2026 notice specifically confirming that Ermioni town’s tap water is safe to drink. Greece’s Health Ministry does maintain official drinking-water quality data, but the readily searchable material I found doesn’t give me a current Ermioni-specific result. So, practically I would use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth for now, unless your hotel/host or the Municipality of Ermionida has specifically confirmed the local supply is safe.

Fresh rainwater cisternas

Ermioni faces significant local water scarcity and brackish or salty municipal and groundwater supplies, making private water storage tanks (cisterna or dekapines) essential. Mains and Wells: Municipal tap water in the Ermioni, Porto Heli, and Kranidi areas is often very salty or non-potable, and local groundwater/wells close to the coast frequently yield brackish or saltwater due to seawater intrusion into the aquifers. Role of Cisternas: Many properties rely on underground or above-ground storage tanks to supplement their supply. While traditional rainwater harvesting fills some private cisterns during wet winter months, low overall annual rainfall in the Argolis region means stored rainwater alone rarely lasts through the dry summer. Water Deliveries: Because rainwater reserves deplete quickly, homeowners routinely purchase truck-delivered bulk water (trucker trucks) to fill their domestic storage tanks. Why Cisterns are Standard in Ermioni Historical Necessity: Before the advent of modern grid infrastructure, traditional stone houses in Ermioni were built with a large underground sterna carved directly beneath the house or the open courtyard. Rainwater was directed from flat roofs into these chambers via clay pipes to sustain families through the dry summer. The Modern Water Crisis: The grid has not replaced the need for cisternas. The Argolida region faces an acute water management crisis, with severe pipeline leaks and heavy seawater intrusion into the local water table. In Ermioni specifically, only 8% of residents have access to safe, potable drinking water all year round from the municipal supply. Plumbing Setup: Because municipal tap water is frequently brackish, salty, or entirely cut off during peak summer tourist spikes, houses route their primary plumbing through these storage systems. Instead of drawing directly from the street mains, the house uses an automated pressure pump (piestiko) to pull water out of the cistern into the home's taps and appliances. Old vs. New Houses 1. Traditional Stone Houses: Feature massive underground chambers carved out of the rock. If you are looking at real estate in the old village or the Limani port area, these historic sternas are often beautifully preserved architectural features. [1, 2] 2. Modern Villas & Holiday Homes: Modern builds in the surrounding Ermionida hills still mandate storage. However, because excavating deep into the local granite and marble foundations is extremely difficult and expensive, newer properties often install massive, heavy-duty above ground plastic or concrete tanks camouflaged by stone walls or landscaping In the current climate, I strongly recommend to anyone buying a property with a cisterna, that they keep it, don't turn it into a pool, but use the water if only to water their plants. And of course, it will help to keep your water bill lower.

What about sewage and brown water

Ermioni does have a municipal sewerage system and a wastewater treatment plant. The municipal utility, DEYA Ermionidas, operates the Ermioni Wastewater Treatment Plant (ΕΕΛ Ερμιόνης). The plant serves Ermioni through the sewer network and pumping stations. DEYA (the utility company) says about 90% of Ermioni's wastewater was collected through the sewer network, with four pumping stations at Mandrakia, Bisti, the Port and the football ground. The municipal strategic plan describes the Ermioni plant as providing secondary treatment. So it isn't simply raw sewage being pumped directly into the sea. However, and this is important for property buyers, not every property in the wider Ermioni area necessarily has a sewer connection. Older properties will have a Vothros or cesspit. The vothros was where wastewater was sent. It is a massive, deep underground, bell shaped construction with an open bottom and was built alongside the propertys construction. Layers of different stones and materials with microbes sit in the bottom, which filters waste coming in from the top. A vothros is self-maintaining, never needs emptying and is a very hygenic and environmentally friendly option. Some properties in Ermioni, however, have a septic tank. These essentially just collect all the wastewater and sewage and do need to be emptied occasionally as they literally just fill up the sealed tank. There are various companies that will come and do this for you. Once you have satified yourself as to which system operates at your property, the septic tank, or vothros, should be inspected and checked for any damage and to make sure it is working correctly.

Rubbish and waste disposal

Household rubbish must be separated out and placed in the bins provided by the Municipality. Whilst they do not seem to list a street by street location for them to be found, there are a few places we know about. Road to the Monastery of Agios Anargyros — at the turn towards the monastery. Six green bins plus larger bins for bulky/heavy and garden waste. Road towards Kouverta / Kouverta beach — another collection point with several green bins. Ermioni town itself has additional ordinary household bins distributed around residential areas and the municipality expects household bags to be placed inside the designated bins, not alongside them. If that bin is full, they ask that you find another. There is also an official Recycom recycling-bin listing showing three specific recycling points in Ermioni: Nekrotapheio Street Provincial Road Ermioni–Kranidi Akti Mitsaiοn Street General household rubbish: ordinary waste goes into the municipal general-waste bins. Recycling: Ermionida operates separate collection streams, including the blue recycling bins for packaging and the green bins or recyclable non-packaging materials. Food and garden organic waste: the municipality has brown bins for biodegradable/organic waste, including food waste and small amounts of garden waste. Bulky household waste: furniture, beds, mattresses, garden cuttings and tyres are treated separately. The municipality provides open containers for bulky items and has a collection service. Electrical appliances/electronics: refrigerators, washing machines, cookers, TVs, computers, batteries and lamps are collected through designated arrangements rather than being put in the normal rubbish bins. Building rubble/renovation waste: this should not simply be left beside the household bins. It requires separate disposal arrangements. The Municipality also provides collection for bulky household items such as furniture, mattresses and garden cuttings. Their current cleaning-service page gives 27543 60028 or 693 672 4747 as the contact number, although these might change If you have a large amount of rubbish, garden waste, building waste or a complete house clearance, a private collection/skip service may be more appropriate. There are companies that can organise this for you and should be found in local pages. You can get more information about rubbish from the local KEP office in Ermioni town.

Mobile, Landlines & WiFi

When you buy a home in the Ermionida area, you will find life much easier for yourself if you have a Greek mobile phone number. Even before you buy, if you want to open a local bank account, having a Greek mobile number means you don't have to produce a mobile phone bill for your non-Greek number. When you order something online, if you give a Greek mobile number, the supplier is much more likely to phone you with any queries, and they will send tracking information to a Greek number but not to any number out of Greece. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in the town and around the port offer guest WiFi. Mobile Data Options eSIM: The most convenient way to get online immediately upon arrival without swapping physical cards. Providers offer flexible data-only packages tailored for Greece. Local SIM Cards: Available to purchase from major carrier storefronts or kiosks if you need a physical prepaid local number and data plan. EU Roaming: If you are traveling from an EU country, standard roaming rules typically apply with no extra data surcharges. UK or other international visitors should check carrier-specific roaming terms. Mobile Phones The main Greek mobile networks to consider are: COSMOTE – generally the first network I would check for coverage in the wider Ermioni/Argolis area. Vodafone Nova You can buy a Greek SIM/eSIM, either prepaid or on a monthly contract. If you are using a UK phone, make sure it is unlocked. A Greek SIM is useful if you will spend significant time at the property, particularly for receiving Greek calls, dealing with utilities and having a local number. WiFi For setting up the service itself, rather than simply buying a router, Nova has a shop serving the Municipality of Ermionida in Kranidi, at Pantanas, telephone 27544 00225. There are also very good WiFi and Mobile shops in Ermioni including V Savvas and Sat-Elite (on the Ermioni -Kranidi Road) Nova specifically says its 5G Wi-Fi service can be used for seasonal/holiday homes and Airbnb properties. For a property you're considering buying in Ermioni, I'd ask the shop to check the exact address for fibre availability and 4G/5G signal before deciding which system to install. Nova also provides an address-level availability check. I will be including more details of these outlets in other pages. There are essentially three routes to getting internet at an Ermioni property: Fibre/fixed broadband If fibre or a suitable fixed-line service is available at the particular property, this is usually the conventional solution. Availability needs to be checked against the exact address, rather than simply assuming that because Ermioni has broadband, the property does. The Providers: Cosmote (the state-backed provider with the largest network footprint), Vodafone Greece and Nova. You will need a Greek Tax Number (AFM), a valid passport/ID, and proof of address. Visit a Cosmote/Germanos or Vodafone store, meantioned above, to check your specific address's network availability. It usually takes one to two weeks for a technician to visit and activate the line if the connection infrastructure already exists on your street. 4G/5G home internet This can be particularly useful in Ermioni and surrounding areas where fixed broadband isn't available or isn't attractive. You have a router with a SIM card, and it provides Wi-Fi throughout the house. Starlink Satellite Internet (Best for Remote Areas) For remote houses on the hills around Ermioni, where mobile signal is weak and phone lines are non-existent, Starlink is highly reliable. You must purchase a satellite dish kit online and mount it with a clear view of the sky. It offers the fastest download speeds on the island (frequently between 80–150 Mbps) but carries a higher upfront equipment cost.

Public Transport in Ermioni

Ermioni has a basic but functional public-transport network. KTEL buses provide connections to Kranidi and onward to Athens, Nafplio and Porto Heli, while local taxis provide more flexible transport within Ermioni and the surrounding villages. The port adds an important sea connection to nearby islands such as Hydra and Spetses. However bus frequencies are limited, particularly at weekends, so a car is generally preferable for residents or owners who want to explore the wider area. Bus The local bus network is operated by KTEL Argolidas. Ermioni is connected with Kranidi, which is the main transport hub for the area. There is no specific station for the bus but there is a main stop in the Limani/Mandraki area by the white marble War Memorial. The current published timetable shows: Ermioni → Kranidi: Monday–Friday at 08:30 and 11:40 Kranidi → Ermioni: Monday–Friday at 08:15 and 11:00 There are currently no scheduled Ermioni–Kranidi services on Saturday or Sunday. The published fare between Kranidi and Ermioni is €2.20. Kranidi then provides connections towards Porto Heli, Kosta, Athens and Nafplio, although frequencies vary considerably by day. FERRIES Ermioni is also a port, which gives the area an important alternative form of transport. The port is used for connections to islands including Hydra and Spetses, depending on the season and operator. The main ferry port is Ermioni Port (Λιμάνι Ερμιόνης), on the northern/western side of the Ermioni peninsula, in the Limani harbour area. The port has regular connections with: Hydra – approximately 20 minutes Spetses – approximately 20 minutes Porto Heli – approximately 40 minutes Poros Piraeus (Athens) – around 2 1⁄2 hours This is particularly useful for visitors and holiday-home owners because Ermioni can be reached by sea without driving around the Peloponnese. I do have to mention Taxis. Taxis are useful for airport transfers, trips to Kranidi/Porto Heli, beaches and villages, particularly where buses don't operate. Ermioni Taxi Rank is on Eth. Antistatis right next to the Limani port pontoon. The listed telephone number is +30 27540 31060.

Furniture Movers

When transporting all large household goods from your country of origin, you will usually use a large shipping company, of which there are many. Check that your delivery will be ‘door to door’ or if, once it all arrives in Piraeus, you need to organise onward transport. Local movers serving Ermioni Nikolaos & Ilias Katsavelas Transport (ΜΕΤΑΦΟΡΙΚΗ ΝΙΚΟΛΑΟΣ & ΗΛΙΑΣ ΚΑΤΣΑΒΕΛΑΣ Ο.Ε.) are based in Ermioni, and listed as a local road-transport business. Phone +30 27540 31730. Ermionida Transport Logistics are based in nearby Kranidi and specifically offers house/vacation-home moves, furniture dismantling and assembly, packing, appliance disconnection and crane/lifting equipment for large or heavy items. Phone +30 27540 21121 / +30 697 727 1690. For one or two large items rather than a complete house move, the Kranidi/Ermioni transport companies may also be able to provide a smaller vehicle and labour. There are also other road-transport operators. IKEA is another possibility. Its published delivery information specifically includes Ermioni on its delivery-area map. Its services can also include delivery of large items and crane/lift arrangements where required. When buying large household furniture or white goods within Greece, many retailers deliver, often for a small fee. It is important to ask if they will bring the goods into the house, or even upstairs, and also if they assemble in place. This IS important because delivery to the Ermioni area isn't necessarily the same as delivery into the property. For a fridge, washing machine, sofa or large wardrobe, you should also check whether there is a surcharge for stairs, difficult access or a maybe even a crane needed. Local handymen/delivery drivers also operate in all Greek towns and asking around locally, or in local pages, can sometimes find you a real gem who will sort all your deliveries efficiently.

Postal and Courier Deliveries

The former ELTA post-office branch in Ermioni closed in October 2023. The local service was transferred to Kranidi, about 10 km away. Hellenic Post (ELTA) is the main ELTA office serving the area: Address: Trias 1, Kranidi 213 00 Telephone: +30 27540 21497 Opening: Monday–Friday, approximately 07:30–14:00 You can send and collect all normal post and parcels there. Parcels and Courier services For parcels, ELTA Courier also serves the Ermioni postcode 21051, through its Kranidi service network. ELTA Courier shop is in Pantanassis Street in Kranidi and is an ELTA Courier/shipping point and may be particularly useful for sending or receiving packages. ELTA Courier offers door-to-door domestic delivery, so for larger parcels you can arrange delivery directly to an Ermioni property rather than necessarily collecting them in Kranidi. Apart from ELTA Courier, the main courier options relevant to Ermioni are: ACS Courier — Kranidi Agiou Charalampous 2, Kranidi 213 00. Tel. +30 27540 29377. This is probably the most useful alternative for ordinary parcels going to an Ermioni property. It also has a DHL Service Point at the same address. Easymail Kranidi — Kranidi. Agii Anargiri 18, Kranidi 213 00. Tel. +30 27540 22957. This is another local parcel/shipping service worth checking for delivery to Ermioni. Geniki Taxydromiki — a major Greek courier network. It provides nationwide parcel delivery, including mainland and remote destinations. DHL — there is a DHL Service Point through ACS in Kranidi, at Agiou Charalampous 2. This is particularly useful for international parcels, including shipments from the UK.

Key-holders for absent house owners

While everyone's ideal is for a lockup and leave property, the reality of owning a house in Greece means that if you are not in residence full time, you really need to have a key holder full-time on hand in case of emergencies. You can even instal a Key Safe box with a spare key that can be used by someone for this. As a minimum, most absent home-owners have an agreement with a neighbour or friend to keep a spare key in case of fire, flooding or collapse. It may be necessary for the emergency services to gain access quickly in order to prevent further damage for example. Most neighbours and friends are happy to do this for free, simply because it's a neighbourly thing to do. However, if you want someone to regularly visit the house in your absence, for example to check the meters, look around the house and clean up any mess, pay bills, do any maintenance work, etc., then you are going to need a house manager. There is a couple of companies and ‘one man bands’ who make their livelihood as House Managers. They charge anything from €100 - €350 per month, sometimes with extras especially if they are also your rental manager if you holiday let in your absence. Of course, for my buyers, I provide a list of contacts for you to meet and find your best match, once the property is yours.

House Mainenance

For non full time residents I would almost always advise that you have a key holding/property maintenance person or company involved. This would be crucial, of course, if you are planning to rent your house in your absence, and most Holiday Rental companies will offer this service automatically for a charge. However, some people do like this service, even if the house is going to be empty for much of the year. To enable you to relax knowing your property is safe a good arrangement would ideally include in any sort of contract would include; Keep a spare set of keys securely. Visit the property periodically and send photos/report. Check for water leaks, damp, storm damage and electrical problems. Open the property before your arrival. Let in plumbers, electricians, cleaners, internet installers and furniture deliveries. Deal with urgent problems when you are not in Greece. Arrange garden/pool maintenance if applicable. Collect post and parcels. Check the property after bad weather. Provide a 24-hour emergency contact. Keep a record of contractors and work carried out. In the least case someone to check for any leaks, missed or missing tiles, cracks in the exterior etc, during the winter months is very important. To organise and repairs to follow might mean a huge saving of time and money later. The Pool and garden also need to be checked and kept under control. There are a couple of Estate Agents in the town who can do property management and also companies specifically listed as House Managers. I provide a comprehensive list to all my new buyers to help them find a good match for their needs.

Building Permits

If you want to build, extend, renovate or make certain structural changes to a property in Ermioni, the building-permit process is handled through the Municipality of Ermionida's Building Department (ΥΔΟΜ), which is located in Kranidi, rather than in Ermioni itself. Municipality of Ermionida – Building Department (Τμήμα Δόμησης) Kranidi 213 00, Greece Telephone: +30 27540 22506 Email: ydom@ermionida.gr The municipality currently lists Laura Virgili as responsible for the department. The wider Technical Works & Building Directorate is also in Kranidi, with telephone numbers +30 27543 60018 / 60019. You normally do not apply for the permit yourself at the council office. You appoint a Greek civil engineer/architect (μηχανικός) who prepares the application and submits it electronically through Greece's e-Adeies system. Building permits are issued electronically through the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) system. They check the property's title deeds, cadastral information, planning status and existing building legality. They establish what you are actually allowed to build or alter and prepare the required drawings and technical studies. They also obtain any necessary approvals, potentially including archaeology, forestry, cadastral and architectural approvals, depending on the property and proposed work. Once approved, the building permit is issued electronically. Not every job requires a full-scale permit. Small outdoor projects such as pergolas and small walls, and non-structural changes within the property might only require permission but are still dealt with electronically. Particularly important in Ermioni Before buying a property with the intention of extending it, adding a pool, enclosing a terrace, converting an outbuilding or undertaking a major renovation, I would have a local engineer check what is legally buildable on that particular plot. The Greek government's Unified Digital Map (Ενιαίος Ψηφιακός Χάρτης) provides public information on planning restrictions, land uses, building conditions and publicly available building permits. This matters in the Ermioni area because planning restrictions can vary considerably according to the exact location, plot,settlement boundaries and applicable planning regime.

Builders & Trades

The size of the population in the Ermioni area is such that in addition to obvious tourism employment, many of the residents are fully employed in the building industry and associated trades. Depending on whether you are thinking of buying a plot to build your dream home, taking on a large renovation job, or simply want reassurance as to the structural integrity of a property, most buyers initially ask to bring a builder. Personally, I can supply a list of builders, but in the first instance, I strongly recommend you bring an architect/engineer (preferably one qualified to issue a Digital ID in their own right) to tell you what needs to be done and give you approximate costs. Then, would be the time to bring in a builder (or three) for quotes etc. I can of course provide contact details for reputable architect/engineers when needed. There are many local trades people including plumbers, electricians and carpenters that can all be employed within one project. This whole area relies on dozens of independent, small-scale local contractors and family-run masonry teams. They are spread across towns like Ermioni, Kranidi and Porto Cheli Developers and Architects: Large-scale commercial developments or modern residential villas often utilize regional firms or hybrid studios that operate between Athens, Piraeus, and the Peloponnese. While Greece has tens of thousands of registered corporate technical firms nationally, many local tradespeople typically work via word-of-mouth or local registry listings rather than large corporate developer entities.

Shopping in Ermioni

Ermioni has a good range of everyday shops for a small coastal town, so you can manage most day-to-day requirements locally without going to Kranidi. The main shopping area is concentrated along the waterfront/port and Ethnikis Antistaseos, with additional shops on the roads leading into town. For an overseas owner or someone furnishing a holiday rental, Ermioni is particularly convenient for food, cleaning products, basic household goods, clothes, pharmacy items and everyday shopping. For larger furniture, appliances, DIY materials and specialist goods, I would generally look at Kranidi/Porto Heli as well. Groceries and household essentials AB Vassilopoulos — supermarket at the main entrance to Ermioni just up from the Port oposite Latsou Street. Masoutis Super market — supermarket in Almyries neighbourhood Kritikos Supermarket— supermarket by the port. There are also many smaller grocery/mini-market shops, bakeries, fruit and vegetable shops, butchers and fish shops around the town. Fresh food Karagiannis Bakery — bakery. Christos Papamichail and butcher Zavalaris — local butchers. This list is certainly not exhaustive. There are many great local food shops and a good browse around town when you arrive will show you that for most needs, you won’t have to travel far. There is also a great weekly farmers' market every Thursday morning, selling fruit, vegetables, fish, honey, olive oil, clothing, footwear and household goods. It is located in the large open car park behind the harbour, just next to the harbourmasters office. Clothes, shoes and gifts Secrets - Concept Store — shoes/fashion. Word of Honor — clothing. Blossom store — clothing. Souvenir Shop "Greek Art" — gifts and souvenirs. Ermioni also has jewellery and speciality shops, including Dimarakis Jewellery and local-produce shops. Furniture and household items There are some furniture/home-related businesses locally, but for a larger furnishing project you will find considerably more choice in Kranidi and Porto Cheli. Indoor and Outdoor Furniture and Decor/Zogas Linens This is probably the most directly relevant local shop for your larger household requirements. It is in Kranidi and covers furniture, interior and exterior decoration and “λευκά είδη” (home textiles/linens). It is therefore worth considering for beds, furniture, curtains, bedding and other items for a rental or holiday home. It is on Michail Chaspari in Kranidi.

Deliveries: Local Food & Daily Essentials

Ermioni, as with most Greek towns, does have facilities for food and daily essentials delivery. It must be stressed, however, that this is not Athens and services are not always widespread. Masoutis - Super market in Ermioni. It is worth asking locally whether they offer their own delivery to your address, particularly for larger grocery orders. Kritikos - another convenient supermarket near the port; local supermarket delivery is worth checking for larger or heavier orders. Heilari Dimitra — supermarket on the Ermioni–Kranidi road. Mini Market -Kava — useful for smaller urgent deliveries. efood is also worth checking by entering the exact Ermioni property address. Its service includes restaurant food as well as groceries, fruit and vegetables, bakeries, butchers, fishmongers and other everyday purchases. efood's coverage varies by location, so I would enter the specific Ermioni address rather than assume every shop delivers there. This is an important point and if you are needing regular provision delivery, I would always suggest going into your chosen supplier/supermarket and having a word with them. Give them your exact address and be very clear about what you need. You will find that once they get used to you and your property this usually works really well! Takeaway and food delivery in Ermioni Ermioni has a reasonable takeaway and local food-delivery service, although it is more a small-town/local than the extensive app-based delivery. Some of the businesses currently listed as offering delivery include: Karavaki Taverna - Greek food and seafood; listed by Tripadvisor among Ermioni's delivery restaurants. To Paradosiako Grill Restaurant -particularly useful for gyros, souvlaki and grilled food; listed as a delivery option. Taverna Michalis - local Greek restaurant with takeaway. Cookoida - pizza and seafood, with takeaway available. Drougas Bakery - useful for bread, pastries, breakfast and bakery items.

Medical Facilities

The medical clinic in Ermioni is not open 24 hours and does not have an Accident & Emergency (A&E) department. The Ermioni Regional Clinic is a small public outpatient unit that only operates on Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 13:30. It is meant for basic medical needs and walk-in consultations rather than critical care. Regional Clinic of Ermioni (Περιφερειακό Ιατρείο Ερμιόνης) Eparchiaki Ermionis Kranidiou 123, Ermioni 210 51. Phone: 27540 31224. This is the main public primary-care facility in Ermioni. It is located in the road just behind the northern pontoon of the Port. Cardiology practice (Καρδιολογικό Ιατρείο - Μαρία Λολακά) Eparchiaki Ermionis Kranidiou, Ermioni 210 51. Phone: 694 229 3600. Therapeia Microbiology Laboratory / diagnostic laboratory Melinas Merkouri 2, Ermioni 210 51. Phone: 27540 31555. Dental clinic Troulakis Nikolaos Kolokotroni 101, Ermioni 210 51. Pharmacy PHARMACY NIKOLAOS GANOSIS — Pharmacy Limani, Ermioni 210 51. Phone: 27540 31590. There are also other pharmacies and private doctors/dentists in Ermioni. These can be checked in local pages and vrisko.gr Where to go for 24/7 Emergency Care If you require immediate medical assistance, an A&E setup, or need treatment outside of daytime hours, you should head to the neighboring town: Kranidi Health Centre (Κέντρο Υγείας Κρανιδίου): Located in Kranidi, roughly 10 km (about a 10–15 minute drive) from Ermioni. Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It acts as the primary regional emergency and trauma responder for the Ermionida area. They handle urgent care, minor injuries, and have English-speaking staff on duty. Phone +30 27540 22222 or +30 27543 60100. [1, 2]

Schools & Language Training

Ermioni has a good range of state schools for children living in the town, covering nursery/kindergarten through secondary school. The Municipality of Ermionida lists the following schools in Ermioni itself. 1ο Νηπιαγωγείο Ερμιόνης (Kindergarten)Ermioni, 210 51, Greece 27540 31622 Δημοτικό Σχολείο Ερμιόνης (Primary) Ermioni, 210 51, Greece 27540 31239 Γυμνάσιο Ερμιόνης (Junior Secondary) Municipal Community of Ermioni, 27540 31190 Γενικό Λύκειο Ερμιόνης (Senior Secondary) Epar. Od. Kranidiou–Ermionis, 2754033255 The Primary School is a public, all-day school and is officially registered as a 12-class primary school. The Ermionida municipality reports that the Ermioni Primary School was substantially upgraded in 2026 through the Marietta Giannakou school-building programme, with the renovated school ready for the 2026–27 school year. The Gymnasium (ages approximately 12–15) is also operating in Ermioni. Its 2026 school information confirms that it serves pupils travelling in from surrounding areas such as Thermisia, Iliokastro, Loukaiti and Metochi, with school transport arrangements. The important point is that children can attend nursery, primary, Gymnasium and Lykeio without having to move to Kranidi. Kranidi does, however, provide additional educational facilities, including another Gymnasium, Lykeio and vocational schools. English language school in Ermioni Roots Language School - Φροντιστήριο Αγγλικών - Ελένη Πάλλη Address: Ermou, Ermioni 210 51, Greece Telephone: +30 693 202 4136 As this seems to be the only option for a language school in Ermioni itself, from experience you should be able to find foreign language tutors locally and also in Kranidi. Ask around and look in local pages. There is also a Facebook page for 'Foreigners living in Ermioni, Kranidi and Porto Heli' which could help with info.

Community Clubs

Ermioni has a surprisingly active network of community, cultural, social and sporting clubs, which is useful when assessing the town as a year-round place to live rather than simply a holiday destination. Community and cultural clubs Music Association of Ermioni (Μουσικός Σύλλογος Ερμιόνης) – choir, music education and performances. It is particularly associated with the annual summer music/choir festival in Ermioni. Historical & Folklore Museum Association (ΙΛΜΕ) – promotes Ermioni's history, traditions and folklore and operates the local museum. The association includes both permanent and non-permanent residents. Ermionikos Association (Ερμιονικός Σύνδεσμος) – a long-established organisation promoting Ermioni's history, culture and heritage, including support for museums and restoration projects. Ermioni Dance Group – traditional Greek dance and cultural activities. The group has been active in local celebrations and events, including the annual Carnival celebrations. Ermioni Cantadores (Οι Κανταδόροι Ερμιόνης) – local singing group preserving the tradition of Greek cantada singing, with performances particularly during the summer and Christmas period. Ahladitsa Environmental & Beautification Association – involved in environmental protection, beach cleaning, tree planting and improvement of communal areas. Ermioni Fishermen's Association – represents local fishermen and also participates in community traditions and celebrations such as Giala-Giala. Sports and outdoor clubs Nautical & Sports Club of Ermioni (Ναυταθλητικός Όμιλος Ερμιόνης) is particularly relevant for families. It offers sailing for children, including Optimist and Laser, an offshore sailing school and rowing. Athletic Club of Ermioni (Αθλητικός Όμιλος Ερμιόνης) – basketball, with children's, junior, women's and men's sections. It uses the Georgios & Evangelia Bournaki indoor sports centre. Ermioni Tennis Club (Αθλητικός Όμιλος Αντισφαίρισης Ερμιόνης) – tennis for children and adults, using the municipal tennis courts. Ermis / Ermionida football – football activities and youth academies have historically been an important part of the local sporting community, with children training at the Ermioni football ground. Ermionida Nature Group (Φυσιολατρική Ομάδα Ερμιονίδας) – hiking, mountaineering, cycling, kayaking and other outdoor activities, together with environmental and educational activities. There is also evidence of newer community sporting initiatives: in January 2026 the Ermioni Cultural Association Porfyra and the Ermionida Gymnastics & Athletic Association Dryopes organised a cross-country running event in Ermioni, involving adults, schoolchildren and children with disabilities Getting involved in the community in Ermioni will depend on you searching out events, themed evenings and activities in the local bars and cafes, and restaurants, of which there are many, along the Port and surrounding streets.

Animal Welfare

If you are bringing your own pet, or end up adopting one of the strays in the area, there are a few facilities to help with their care. GreekStrays is the main animal welfare organization operating in Ermioni, Greece, focusing on stray rescue, rehoming, cat neutering, and adoptions. Local Animal Welfare Efforts GreekStrays: Active in the Ermioni and Ermionida region for over 18 years, helping manage the local stray population through feeding, medical care, and sterilization programs. You can reach them via email at greekstrays@gmail.com. Municipal Facilities: The Municipality of Ermionida approved a project at the Diskouri site (an old landfill area spanning 7,100 square meters) with a budget of 372,000 euros to construct a dedicated stray animal shelter featuring veterinary, isolation, and administration spaces. Local Municipality Vet: Zoi operates out of the old Town Hall in Ermioni. Office phone: 2754360214, Mobile: 6977230834, Email: protokolo.ermionida@gmail.com. Veterinary Contacts and Resources Ermioni / Kranidi / Porto Heli Vets: Yorgos (2754022348, Mobile: 6946413865) Nikos (Mobile: 6977585596) [1] Medical Supplies: Most local pharmacies in the area stock over-the-counter animal medications.

How To Get To Ermioni

Ermioni is on the Southern portion of the Peloponnese and can be reached either by road or boat. Most people will arrive via Athens and if you are expecting to travel on by ferry from Athens international airport (AIA} take a taxi, the Metro or X96 bus to Piraeus. Then either a Cat or ferry. A taxi from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Port takes around an hour depending on traffic. The yellow taxi lines can be found outside arrivals. The Athens Metro Blue Line runs directly from under the Airport to Piraeus Station. Alternatively, you can always hop on the X96 Express Bus which leaves from outside the arrivals terminal and drops off at Gate E8.

Car Ferries To Ermioni

Unfortunately at this moment in time, there are no direct car ferry operators running between Athens (Piaeus) and Ermioni. The drive from Athens to Ermioni takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes over a distance of roughly 105–166 km, depending on your exact starting point and route. Whether in your own car, or hiring a car in Athens, you will head west onto the A8/E94 and pass the Corinth Canal, then on towards Porto Cheli and then Ermioni. It is a very scenic drive.

Bringing A Car Permanently To Ermioni

To bring a car permanently to Ermioni, you must import and register the vehicle in Greece. The main competent public authority for vehicle and car customs clearance in the Athens metropolitan area is the Athinon Customs Office (Telonio Athinon) Athinon Customs Office Details Address: 12 Klm Ethnikis Odoy Athinon-Lamias, 144 10 Metamorphosi, Athens, Greece Phone: +30 213 2109710 Email: tel.athinon@aade.gr Hours: Monday to Friday, 07:30 AM – 15:30 PM If you are shipping your car to Greece it will again, usually, arrive in Piraeus. Shipping companies from the Country of origin will take you through the process and explain what you must do once you collect your car from the main port Import and Customs Clearance Greek Tax Number (AFM): You must obtain an AFM from the local Greek tax office (DOY) before starting any official registration process. You must have an AFM anyway before you can buy property in Greece so you might already have it. Transfer of Residence (ToR): If you are permanently relocating to Greece and have owned and used the car for at least six months, you may apply to Hellenic Customs (AADE) for a tax and duty exemption. Declaration of Arrival (DVA): Submit a DVA to the Greek customs authority within 15 days of the vehicle arriving on the mainland. Standard imports without a ToR relief will face import duties, VAT, and registration taxes based on the car's value and emissions Paperwork and Inspection Required Documents: Prepare your proof of ownership (V5C logbook or title deed), purchase invoice, proof of insurance, and the Certificate of Conformity (CoC). Technical Inspection (KTEO): Your vehicle must pass a Greek technical inspection (KTEO) to receive its local roadworthiness certificate before final registration. The KETO is a crucial step and you can find local (to you) an authorized Vehicle Technical Control Centre online or at vrisko.gr You can choose between a public (Δημόσιο) or a private (Ιδιωτικό) KTEO centre. Most expats prefer private KTEO networks because they generally offer online booking platforms in English, faster service, and more flexible appointment slots Permanent Export: If coming from the UK or another non-Greek EU country, remember to complete the permanent export section of your home country's vehicle registration paperwork. Please note: The tax implications for importing a car to Greece are different if importing from an EU or Non-EU country.

To Ermioni As A Foot Passenger

Once you have arrived in Athens you can decide whether you want to travel on to Ermioni by Public Transport or by ferry boat. You can access Gate E8 in the Port of Pireaus using either the X96 Bus, the Metro Blue Line train or a taxi. These are all easily accessable at the Airport. By Ferry Actually you could have a bit of an island hop on the way to Ermioni if the mood takes you. Apart from the direct ferry to Ermioni from Piraeus, which takes from 1.5 - 2.5 hours, depending on which ferry you take, the ferries to Hydra, Spetses, Poros and Porto Cheli also operate from Gate E8 and you could travel via one of these places. Blue Star Ferries/Hellenic Seaways operate from Gate E8. Tickets can be purchased online, or at the Port itself in one of the kiosks, and you are recommended to arrive at least 20 minutes before scheduled departure. This is the main company for a direct ferry to Ermioni. During the peak season there are 3/4 crossings per day but in the off season probably only 1 or 2. The duration of the trip also depends on which islands the boat calls at on the way. By Public Transport The main bus operator is KTEL Argolidas. It serves Ermioni and connects the area with Athens, Nafplio, Argos, Kranidi and other parts of Argolida. The usual route from Athens is: Athens Kifisos Bus Station → Kranidi → Ermioni There are also services that operate directly through to Ermioni, although the timetable varies. Current published information indicates that Athens–Ermioni journeys take roughly 2½–3 hours. The KTEL Argolidas information numbers are: Athens: +30 210 513 4588 Nafplio: +30 27520 27323 KTEL Argolidas: +30 27520 27423

Meaning in the Flag

The historical flag used by the fighters of Ermioni during the 1821 Greek War of Independence features two highly symbolic phrases: "Victory or Death" (Νίκη ή Θάνατος): The central rallying cry used by local revolutionary fighters, declaring their absolute refusal to live under Ottoman occupation. "With it or upon it" (Ή τάν ή επί τάς): This is the famous ancient Spartan motto. Historically, Spartan mothers would utter this phrase to their sons when handing them their hoplon (shield) before going to war. It meant the warrior must return either holding his shield in victory, or dead, carried upon it.