Island hopping is a way of traveling that more and more people opt for every year for as long as they stay on the Greek islands. It allows people to discover different places, traditions, landscapes and flavors, even if the islands lie very close.
Ferries in Greece make island-hopping a breeze, as both the number and frequency of ferry routes increase during the summer.
Keep reading to find everything you need about the available ferries and island-hopping between the Greek islands (destinations, routes, tickets, etc.)!
HOW TO GET TO THE GREEK ISLANDS
The ferry Thunder of Fast Ferries getting to Naxos
Visitors can reach the Greek islands either by ferry or by plane. In particular:
By Ferry
The ferry is the most common and preferred mode of travel. In fact, for many islands, it is the only choice, as not every island boasts an airport, but all have at least one port. Ferries to the Greek islands offer numerous seats of different types, the possibility of transporting vehicles and an excellent view of the seascape. Moreover, they are the means for island-hopping, thanks to the several and frequent connections between the Greek islands during the summer. Finally, ferry tickets have fixed prices, while some categories of passengers are entitled to a discount (upon presentation of the relevant documents).
By Plane
The most popular Greek islands host international airports to serve tourists coming from abroad more efficiently. These include:
- Santorini and Mykonos (Cyclades)
- Rhodes, Kos and Karpathos (Dodecanese)
- Corfu, Zakynthos and Kefalonia (Ionian Islands)
- Samos and Lesvos (Eastern Aegean Islands)
- Skiathos (Sporades).
As a ferry trip to the Greek islands is an unforgettable experience, many visitors choose to fly to Athens and then board a ferry from the port of Piraeus, Rafina, or Lavrion.
NOTE: Most Greek airports are not connected by direct flights - a stop at the International Airport of Athens is necessary in order to travel from one island to another.
TYPES OF FERRIES
The types of Greek passenger ships are two: high-speed and conventional.
High-speed Ferries
The high-speed ferry WorldChampion Jet of Seajets
High-speed ferries reach higher velocities and get passengers to their destinations faster.
They offer two types of seats - Economy and Business/VIP - both corresponding to numbered seats. In general, their tickets are more expensive compared to those of conventional ferries.
Some vessels have garages for vehicle transport, though with limited parking space.
Their small size helps them sail at higher speeds but, at the same time, makes them more prone to delays when strong winds blow.
Some leading Greek ferry companies that own such crafts are Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Minoan Lines and Hellenic Seaways (appertaining to the Blue Star Ferries company).
Conventional Ferries
The conventional ferry Festos Palace of Minoan Lines
Conventional ferries are the most common way to reach the Greek islands. Their large size allows numerous passengers and vehicles to travel; it also helps them not to be affected by strong winds.
Apart from the standard air and Business/VIP seats, this kind of ship offers another type of ticket called standard/economy ticket. It is the cheapest ticket on Greek ferries and allows passengers to sit on the deck or in an interior lounge.
Blue Star, K/X ANEK-Superfast, Fast Ferries, Zante, Levante Ferries and Saronic Ferries are the main companies to which conventional ferries belong.
BEST GREEK ISLAND-HOPPING ROUTES
Discover the Greek islands by region.
THE CYCLADES
The village of Klima on Milos island
The Cyclades is the optimal region of Greece when it comes to island hopping!
With dozens of islands forming a circle-shaped cluster in the middle of the Aegean Sea and many ferry connections between their ports during the summer, visitors are able to discover the beauty of the Cyclades in different settings effortlessly.
Feel free to include more than one island in your holiday schedule- we are here to guide you to make the most of your vacation on the Greek islands!
➜ Read more about the Cyclades
The Cyclades islands share some characteristics to a large extent, such as the picturesque villages with their cubic whitewashed houses, the clear waters of the enchanting beaches and the traditional tavernas serving delicious dishes made from local products.
Despite their commonalities, other points differentiate the islands and help us separate them into groups, making it easier to plan your island-hopping program.
Have a look at some of our suggestions to get inspired about your Greek island-hopping itinerary based on what you hanker for during your holidays!
The list starts with the most preferred island-hopping sequence; that is quite reasonable, considering how it combines the three most renowned Greek destinations. Visiting the monument-filled Athens, then the enchanting little Venice in Mykonos, and finally the world's only inhabited caldera in Santorini, you'll feel free to flaunt how you've visited most of the scenery intertwined with holidays in Greece!
Since the two islands host an International Airport each, it is possible to skip the Greek capital and head directly to the gems of the Aegean. Note that there are no flights between the two islands and taking the ferry is the only way to travel from Santorini to Mykonos and vice versa.
It's party time! Another favorite combination is that of the more lively Cycladic islands. Extremely popular among groups of friends and youth, these three destinations are famous for their vivid nightlife in several bars and clubs that welcome millions of people every year. Mykonos is among the world's top destinations for party animals, while Ios is also praised for wild events in its beach clubs and bars. As for Paros, the fun happens in Naoussa, the most picturesque village on the island, which turns into one big party at night!
Q: How do I get to Mykonos?
A: By ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina)
By plane from Athens and other cities in Europe and the Middle East
Straight out of the most romantic novel, these islands offer everything a couple could ask for from a holiday - glorious sunsets and breathtaking scenery. There's not much to say about Santorini and its romantic sunset from Oia overlooking the volcano and the deep blue Aegean Sea - there is a reason why most hotels offer wedding rooms and honeymoon suites! Milos, although well-known, has managed to maintain an atmosphere that allows lovers to enjoy tranquility outside of their accommodation. The volcanic landscapes and seaside fishing villages with colorful houses draw the visitors’ attention, with lovers taking gorgeous photos with them as a backdrop. Finally, quiet Folegandros offers couples endless moments of relaxation and privacy thanks to its less cosmopolitan atmosphere, pristine landscape and stunning beaches.
Q: How do I get to Santorini?
A: By ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina)
By plane from Athens and other European cities, Turkey (Istanbul) and Israel (Tel Aviv)
For many, holidays are a time to recharge their batteries and, for this reason, they seek off-the-beaten-track destinations away from crowds of people. If you relate to that, this Greek island-hopping itinerary is worth considering! All three islands have a peaceful atmosphere, and the fact that they have remained untouched by tourism is apparent wherever you look. The settlements are traditional and locals follow the time-honored way of life, while hotels, restaurants and shops are far from deluxe. Serifos Town, with its cobbled streets overlooking the Aegean from the top of a hill, the palatable flavors of Sifnos cuisine and the unspoiled and authentic beauty at every corner of Sikinos guarantee the most exhilarating holiday experience!
Q: How do I get to Serifos?
A: By ferry from Athens (Piraeus)
Last but not least, these majestic islands allow nature lovers to admire all faces of the Cycladic geomorphology! Andros and Naxos contradict the classic arid landscape of the Cyclades, featuring dense vegetation with waterfalls and rivers in places. Amorgos, on the other hand, showcases the wild landscape throughout it, with the blue of the sea and sky creating a formidable contrast that gives visitors unforgettable sights. All three islands are endowed with captivating beaches and trails that traverse unique landscapes, ideal for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the Cyclades as much as they can!
Q: How do I get to Andros?
A: By ferry from Athens (Rafina or Lavrion)
THE DODECANESE
The alley of the Knights in the old Town of Rhodes
The Dodecanese is another cluster of islands where you can perform Greek island-hopping. Although with less frequent connections between their ports, accessing them is possible by conventional ferries to the Dodecanese that operate different routes every day of the week. In addition, on some islands, visitors can travel from one island to another by boarding smaller vessels that sail to neighboring destinations.
➜ Read more about the Dodecanese
Like the Cyclades, the islands of the Dodecanese share several features, such as captivating architecture, delicious cuisine and impressive monuments. A large part of their coastlines is jagged, featuring numerous coves and bays with crystalline waters.
On the other hand, the Dodecanese can also be described as a group of contrasts. The authentic white houses of the Aegean coexist with colorful neoclassical houses reminiscent of Italy. At the same time, while some immerse themselves in the peace of the natural landscape, others enjoy the loud music and events in cosmopolitan resorts.
These and many more prove that Island hopping in the Dodecanese is well worth it for all types of travelers!
Below are some suggestions for Greek island-hopping in the Dodecanese based on the type of holiday you want to enjoy this year!
Encompassing three places that are permanently at the top of the list of favorite Greek destinations, this route allows you to visit the Greek capital as well as two of the country’s most touristic islands. The three have in common that they combine the cosmopolitan element and vibrancy with a rich historical background and an abundance of points of interest.
Rhodes and Kos boast an international airport each, so going directly to one of the two islands without visiting Athens is possible.
This Greek island-hopping proposal includes two of the most preferred destinations among lovers of alternative tourism. Two islands that keep a low profile despite having so many breathtaking places to flaunt! Patmos is intertwined with religion, as it is the island where Saint John wrote the Apocalypse. It hosts countless points of interest, while its Town is an exceptionally well-preserved medieval settlement protected by UNESCO. Beyond its connection to religion, however, the island boasts pristine beaches, rugged peaks and excellent food. Another non-touristy place that certainly cannot be labeled as unknown, Kalymnos is famous for its long tradition of fishing and sponge processing. Its landscape allows visitors to go rock climbing, visit caves and explore the island’s beauties through the regional trails.
Q: How do I get to Patmos?
A: By ferry from Athens (Piraeus)
Kasos and Karpathos are two neighboring islands that share their love for authenticity. More specifically, both have natural beauty, enchanting beaches with crystal clear waters, and traditional houses owned by hospitable locals who love to keep the customs. In Karpathos, one can even visit Olympos, the most untouched-by-time settlement in Greece, where people still wear traditional costumes and speak a local dialect only they can understand!
Q: How do I get to Kasos?
A: By ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina)
By plane from Athens and other cities in Europe and the Middle East
Our last suggestion features three pristine Greek islands far from the tourist crowds where tranquility prevails. Guests can admire the unique natural landscape of each of them and blend in with the locals and their laid-back attitude. Nisyros, a volcanic island with wild beauty, is an excellent destination for lovers of alternative tourism, as it has many geomorphological, historical and religious points of interest. One of its greatest assets is its colorful seabed, home to plentiful marine fauna and flora species. Tilos, an island unknown to many, is one of the most sustainable destinations in Europe, as it is almost energy-independent thanks to the ecological approach it has adopted. In fact, hundreds of plants (flowers and herbs) as well as rare species of birds, have made Tilos their refuge. In addition to its natural splendors, it also has points of historical interest. Finally, Kastellorizo is the definition of isolation. More than 70 nautical miles from Rhodes, the easternmost tip of Greece will enchant you with its picturesqueness from the moment you lay eyes on it, making you forget about your long crossing.
Q: How do I get to Nisyros?
A: By ferry from Athens (Piraeus)
IONIAN ISLANDS
The beach of Myrtos in Kefalonia
Boarding a ferry to one (or more) of the Ionian Islands will gift you unparalleled memories of breathtaking scenery thanks to the verdant vegetation of the islands and the crystal-clear azure and teal waters that surround them!
Full of landscapes reminiscent of heaven and with a rich historical background, the Ionian Islands are an equally popular destination for both Greek and foreign tourists. Ferry connections between them are limited, as most are large islands that visitors need days to explore, so people avoid adding extra destinations to their holiday schedules. However, some islands are connected to each other either by ferry or by seasonal boats that run routes to nearby destinations.
➜ Read more about the Ionian Islands
Check out a few recommendations for Greek island-hopping in the Ionian Sea!
The two main ports of Kefalonia are connected to the port of Pisaetos in Ithaca daily during the summer months, with the journey lasting only 20 minutes from the port of Sami and 40 minutes from the port of Poros. Both islands are renowned for their captivating natural beauty and sparkling blue waters, with the most striking example being Myrtos in Kefalonia.
Q: How do I get to Kefalonia?
A: By ferry from Western Greece (Kyllini, Patra, or Astakos)
By plane from Athens and other European cities
Combine the multicultural and aristocratic Corfu with the peace and quiet of Paxi. Corfu is a large island with many points of interest of various kinds - what better after exploring them than escaping to a small island with fantastic waters and a relaxed atmosphere?
Q: How do I get to Corfu?
A: By ferry from Epirus (Igoumenitsa)
By plane from Athens and other European cities
Meganisi is a relatively unknown place; one may even expect to see a deserted land deprived of life. On the contrary, the island boasts a unique atmosphere, beautiful settlements, dense vegetation and crystal-clear waters. It is located only four nautical miles from Nydri, with ferry boats to Meganisi departing daily in summer. After visiting the wonders of Lefkada, such as the revered Porto Katsiki Beach and the Castle of Agia Mavra, don't hesitate to board one!
Q: How do I get to Lefkada?
A: By plane from Athens and other European cities (Aktio Airport in Preveza - a 20-minute drive from the island)
By car from the Greek mainland
SARONIC ISLANDS
The town of Aegina
The Saronic Islands are the island group closest to Attica. Conveniently located in the Argosaronic Gulf, they are the most preferred islands to visit from Athens for day trips, weekends and holidays. Taking a Greek ferry to the Saronic Islands is simple, as ferry departures from Piraeus are frequent, with more than ten itineraries scheduled daily during the high season. No route connects all the islands, but you can combine 2 or 3 destinations on your island-hopping itinerary! Vacationers can start or end their Greek island-hopping journey from one of the Peloponnese’s coastal areas that are connected by ferry to the islands of the Saronic Gulf - particularly Ermioni, Porto Heli, or Methana.
➜ Read more about the Saronic Islands
Have a look at our Greek island-hopping recommendations featuring the Saronic Islands!
After boarding a ferry from Athens, the first stop is Aegina, the native soil of thousands of pistachio trees with many points of interest, for which most ferries depart from Piraeus. Next is Agistri, the smallest of the Saronic Gulf islands with a tranquil atmosphere and untouched natural beauty, which is a meeting point for nature lovers and fans of alternative tourism. The picturesque Poros, with its lovely mansions and clean beaches, is considered a romantic Greek island suitable for people looking for a place to relax. Those who want to continue exploring can add a visit to Methana to their Greek island-hopping itinerary. It is a seaside town known for its thermal baths and historical sites.
Q: How do I get to Aegina?
A: By ferry from Piraeus
Taking the ferry to those Greek islands is like time-traveling in the past! Poros is quaint, yet Hydra is perhaps the most picturesque place in Greece, as it has left its neoclassical architecture untouched, and a car ban is in effect on the island. In cosmopolitan Spetses, you will find a similar situation, with carriages still roaming the pebbled streets. Finally, the charming areas of Porto Heli and Ermioni in the Peloponnese are close to these islands and rated as two of the top destinations of the cream of the crop.
Q: How do I get to Poros?
A: By ferry from Piraeus
SPORADES
The town of Skopelos
The last group of islands suitable for Greek island-hopping is the Sporades. They stand out for their dense, lush green vegetation and stunning, clear waters that are among the cleanest in Greece. No ferries depart for them from any of Athens’ ports. Instead, ferries to the Sporades depart from Thessaloniki, Volos, Evia (Mantoudi) and Agios Konstantinos (Fthiotida).
➜ Read more about the Sporades
Our Greek island-hopping proposal regarding the Sporades is visiting Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos. Skiathos is the closest island to mainland Greece and the liveliest in the archipelago, with thousands of visitors every year visiting for a swim at Koukounaries beach, watersports, hiking and dancing in the bars of Chora. Next in line is Skopelos, world-famous for the hit movie "Mamma Mia!". The landscape and turquoise waters of the island's beaches are reminiscent of the Ionian Sea. Finally, the heavenly Alonissos, apart from boasting beguiling greenery and crystal clear waters, is a safe haven for the Monachus Monachus seal. The island is also home to a national marine park.
