Irini & Matt
September 6, 2025
Ermioni, Greece
Matt and Irini were always meant to find each other. While they may have crossed paths before through their mutual friends, the spark truly ignited in March 2020 at Irini's birthday party. (Little did they know, the world was about to change forever just a week later!)
Separated by distance but connected by their friends and a shared love of laughter (and virtual games that Irini learned to love!), Matt slid into Irini's DMs. Their texts flew back and forth, filling the days with anticipation until their first "socially distant" picnic date in June 2020. The connection was undeniable; the virtual sparks were even brighter in person (even though Matt forgot a bottle opener...)
Matt proposed to Irini in Paris during the Summer Olympics in August 2024. When Matt wasn’t working during the games, he would spend his downtime walking all over Paris to find the perfect spot. Several lies about lunches and plans later, Matt asked a VERY surprised Irini the question at the Jardin de Luxembourg. And just like their first date four years prior, their first date engaged was, of course, a picnic in the park. He promised to never forget a bottle opener again.
How to get here
Flying to Greece: Direct flights are available daily from the New York area to Athens via Delta, United and Emirates.
Once you are in Greece, there are several ways to make it from
Athens to Ermioni.
By Boat: Hellenic Seaways runs hydrofoils daily from Pireaus port to Ermioni (www.hellenicseaways.gr). Traveling time is generally two hours.
By Car: Driving time from Athens to Ermioni is about 2 to 2½ hours through lush pine forests with spectacular coastline views but please note - roads are curvy and require caution. Private transfers may also be arranged from Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport or city locations.
If you would like to book a private transfer or van to and from Athens, we have partnered with a transfer company with discounted rates.
Please email info@zafiris-tours.gr, anastasis@zafiris-tours.gr and reference the Stamatiou/Wolfson wedding.
Booking at least two weeks in advance is encouraged.
Prices:
Mercedes E200 taxi (3 people max) 280 euros +tax, per transfer
Mercedes GLC (3 people max) 340 euros +tax, per transfer
Mercedes Sprinter (10 people max) 380 euros +tax, per transfer
Mercedes Sprinter (20 people max) 430 euros +tax, per transfer
*if paying in cash, price is without tax
Reach out to Irini or Matt with any logistical questions
Things to Do
Welcome to Ermioni: Irini's Home & Our Coastal Gem!
Escape the bustling island crowds and discover Ermioni, a charming seaside town nestled on the Greek mainland. This special place holds a dear spot in our hearts, as it's where Irini grew up, graduated high school, and set off on her adventures to the US and eventually New York.
While Ermioni might be gaining recent notoriety for its inclusion on the "Yacht Week" itinerary (a lively sailing cruise!), it boasts a rich and authentic history dating back to at least 3000 BC, with mentions even in Homer's epic works. Its unique geography sets it apart: a slender peninsula culminating in the serene Bisti Forest at its eastern tip.
On the north side, you'll find the main port bustling with local businesses, while the south side reveals the enchanting Mandraki – a picturesque harbor brimming with traditional Greek charm, delightful restaurants, lively bars, and crystal-clear waters perfect for a dip.
Ermioni is the perfect place to unwind, savor the moment, and embrace the relaxed pace of Greek life. Spend hours sipping coffee at a waterfront cafe, or enjoy a refreshing ouzo paired with a delicious octopus "meze" (snack). For those seeking a bit more adventure, we have some fantastic recommendations
Exploring Ermioni & Beyond: Our Top Recommendations Within Ermioni:
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Stroll Through Bisti Forest & Swim: Take a leisurely walk around the verdant Bisti Forest. On its south side, you'll discover steps leading down to the inviting sea – perfect for a refreshing swim! The interior of the forest also holds a fascinating secret: an ancient agora (marketplace). Imagine the echoes of history as people once walked these very grounds in their ancient togas and sandals!
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Panoramic Views from Agios Gerasimos Church: For a breathtaking bird's-eye view of Ermioni's peninsula, walk along the main port (opposite the Bisti Forest, past the schools and soccer field) and ascend the hill to the beautiful Agios Gerasimos Church.
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Rejuvenate at Breathe Pilates Studio: Located on the main port side next to Yacht Cafe, Breathe Pilates Studio offers both mat and reformer sessions.
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Cost: €20 for 2-3 people / €40 for personal sessions.
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To Reserve: Contact Nikos Drouzas via WhatsApp at +30 694 298 3902.
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Rent a Boat from Asterias: Explore the stunning coastline at your own pace! No license is required for these boats, which can accommodate up to 6 passengers. Located on the main port side next to Maria's Restaurant.
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Cost: Full-Day (7 hours): €180 plus fuel. Half-Day (10 am - 2 pm or 2 pm - 6 pm): €100 plus fuel.
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To Reserve: Email asterias.stergiou@gmail.com or call +30 27540 31334.
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Island Hopping Adventures
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Day Trip to Hydra Island: Discover Hydra, often hailed as Greece's most picturesque and "graphic" island, famously free of cars! This beautiful island is just a 20-minute boat ride away on the "Christos Boat" from Ermioni's main port.
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Schedule: While the current daily schedule is typically 10 am, 12 pm, and 4 pm departures from Ermioni, and 3 pm and 6 pm returns from Hydra, it's always best to confirm on the street corner wall next to Maria's Restaurant.
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Tickets: Purchase on board. €10 per person (one way).
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Our Favorite Vibe on Hydra: Don't miss Hydronetta All-Day Bar for a fantastic atmosphere.
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Day Trip to Spetses Island: Spetses is another stunning island, renowned for its grand historic aristocratic houses, charming art, gift, and clothing shops, and fantastic organized beaches.
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Getting There: The port for Spetses, Kosta, is a 20-30 minute drive from Ermioni. You can take a taxi from Ermioni's port (we recommend arranging a return pick-up with the same taxi) or rent a car from Pop's Cars (Fun In the Sun) on the main port side: https://funinthesun.gr/en/location-de-voitures/
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From Kosta to Spetses: Take a ferry boat or a water taxi across. Once on the Spetses side, you'll find signs directing you to various beaches. Alternatively, spend your day exploring the charming Old Harbor, Browse shops, and enjoying the cafes.
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Our Favorite Beaches on Spetses:
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Vrelos: For a quiet, zen-like experience.
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Zogeria: Offers a great restaurant.
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Kaiki: Perfect for a lively beach party atmosphere.
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Farther Afield (For History Buffs!)
If you're an ancient history enthusiast, these fascinating locations are easily accessible by rental car or taxi:
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Nafplio: A beautiful port town featuring a charming Old Town and the impressive Palamidi Fortress.
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Epidavros: Home to an ancient amphitheater where plays are still performed today – a truly magical experience!
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Mykines (Mycenae): Explore this significant ancient archaeological site.
Our Favorite Ermioni Eateries
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Maria's Restaurant: Open all day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Maria's serves up authentic Greek taverna cooking. It's the perfect spot to savor all of Greece's specialties!
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Reservations: Recommended for dinner. Contact Maria on WhatsApp at +30 697 959 4062.
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Please Note: Closed on Thursday evening for Irini and Matt's Rehearsal Dinner.
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Mourayio: Open only for dinner, Mourayio is Irini's family's charming bed and breakfast, run by Hector. This is our go-to "foodie" spot, specializing in delicious fish-based dishes.
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Reservations: Strongly recommended. Contact Hector at +30 697 924 8649 by call or text.
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Maryvonne's (15-minute taxi ride up in the hills): Open only for dinner, this delightful restaurant is run by Hector's mother, Maryvonne, with Irini's dear friend and Hector's sister, Matina Laura, as the talented chef. Expect incredible steak-oriented dishes, the best French fries on the planet, and amazing salads and sides. And whatever you do, don't leave without trying the "Dame Blanche" (an ice cream sundae to die for!) for dessert.
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Reservations are a must! Contact Maryvonne at +30 697 6642468 by call or text.
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Cafes & Bars with a View:
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Thanos: Find Thanos by taking the stairs down on either side of Kavos Taverna. This is a fantastic spot for coffee, delicious grilled cheese sandwiches, and super cocktails. Open all day with easy beach access for swimming (water shoes recommended as it's a bit rocky). Also incredibly beautiful at sunset!
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Yacht Cafe: A great seaside cafe and bar, open all day, offering a relaxing atmosphere with lovely views.
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En Lefko: Another wonderful seaside cafe and bar on the Mandraki side, open all day for your enjoyment.
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Casa Dei: Open all day for coffee and the best cocktail spot in town for a night out
FAQ
Here are some helpful tips to make your trip as smooth as possible
Cell Phone service
If you have an international plan with your carrier, your cell phone should connect to one of three major carriers in Greece (Cosmote, Nova, and Vodafone) once you land. You can also buy an eSim if you would prefer not to use a phone plan/roaming charges. There are plenty of options available at different rates (Saily, Airalo, Vodafone, etc). iMessage and FaceTime should work without any issue, but we suggest downloading WhatsApp just in case to make calls.
Outlets and Converters
Greece uses the standard European two-prong outlets (Type C and Type F). The voltage is 230V, which is different from the 120V used in the US. This means you will need a power adapter (for the different plug shape) . Please don't bring your own hair dryers as that won't work with an adaptor and can blow out fuzes.
Getting around Ermioni
Please be aware that ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not available in Ermioni. We will provide transportation for all wedding events throughout the weekend. Should you need any transportation assistance, we have included some taxi numbers below and have also listed on our website under the FAQ tab. We recommend calling at least 30 mins before your estimated trip time.
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Kostas Lazarou: +30 6932490501
Tap Water
The tap water in Ermioni is not drinkable (unless filtered) so we highly suggest drinking bottled water.
Weather
September is still very much summer in Greece so expect a high of 90s and low of 80s in the evening. This may change in the next month so please keep an eye out as we get closer to the wedding weekend.
Currency and Cash
Greece's official currency is the Euro (€). While most major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards (amex cards are less preferred), it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, markets, or tipping. You can exchange currency at the airport or use an ATM to withdraw Euros. Just be sure to let your bank know you'll be traveling so they don't flag your card for suspicious activity.
If you still have any questions, feel free to contact us directly 🥰
