If you're visiting Greece, you have to go island hopping! Greece has stunning islands and planning ferry tickets for your trip is essential for a seamless experience.
Have you been dreaming about exploring the blue and white paradise of Greece? If you answered “YES”, you've come to the right person because I'm going to tell you EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW for this once (or a few 😉) in a lifetime experience - Island Hopping in Greece! This guide will prepare solo travelers, couples, families, digital nomads, and anyone else you can think of, to book that trip and confidently take on Greece.
Hi I'm Drishti — I work hard (the good ol’ 9-5 grind) and I travel hardest. My days are a blur of emails, engineering stuff, and deadlines, fueled by caffeine. But my passion for luxury travel, fine dining, and unique experiences gets me excited with each rising sun.
Greek Island Hopping | Why is it a “MUST DO”?
We all want to see places that seem unreal - be it for the experience or THE GRAM! But if you are here, you probably LOVEEE to travel and know that the crucial part to any trip is masterful planning.
The volcanic cliffs of Santorini, the beach that teleports you to the moon (you heard it right!) in Milos, the windmills of Mykonos or the ancient ruins of Crete, there's an island to match your mood and interest.
The hospitality in Greece is something I have never experienced anywhere else. Greek people are known for their laid-back attitude and zest for life.
Did you know, Ikaria, an island in Greece is known to have one of the highest life expectancy in the world? |
Greek food is a celebration of local ingredients. It's fresh, flavorful, and made with love. It's the kind of food that doesn't just fill your stomach; it feeds your soul. And the joy of a Greek meal lies in a table full of happy people.
It's about laughter and stories with dishes like moussaka, spanakopita, and those little plates of mezedes that just keep coming. Saganaki quickly became my favorite appetizer and I kid you not, I ate it with every meal.
Now getting around Greece's islands might seem overwhelming at first, but I assure you it’s not. It’s so much better than having to deal with airport security, getting to the airport early, and dealing with luggage weight limitations (yup! That’s pretty standard across Europe).
I quickly got used to the ferries and didn’t face any issues throughout my time there (Unless you have motion sickness, then take your antidote with you).
It’s also a pretty well-developed network, so you can get to anywhere you want, even Turkey or Italy.
Going island hopping will let you experience the best of Greece so let’s get into figuring out how to do this!
Island hopping in Greece is an experience you'll never forget. This is your chance to expand your reality beyond the dreams and create core memories that will last a lifetime.
Notable Greek Island Groups | The Categories
First things first - understanding the type of islands and what each of them offers is the key to selecting which ones you want to go to. The island diversity in Greece is no joke! There are literally 6,000 of them (not kidding!) and you can visit over 200 of these islands. Greek islands are broadly categorized into different groups based on their geographical locations and characteristics.
Cyclades:
Iconic white-washed buildings
Blue-domed churches
Crystal-clear waters
Popular Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros.
Ionian Islands:
Lush greens
Venetian architecture
Vibrant culture
Popular Islands: Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia.
Dodecanese:
Rich history
Medieval architecture
Clear blue waters
Popular Islands: Rhodes, Kos, Patmos.
Saronic Islands:
Proximity to Athens
Historical sites
Traditional villages
Popular Islands: Aegina, Hydra, Poros.
Sporades:
Pine-covered landscapes
Stunning beaches
Beautiful marine life
Popular Islands: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos.
Northeastern Aegean Islands:
Less touristy
Authentic atmosphere
Diverse landscapes
Popular Islands: Samos, Lesbos, Chios.
Let’s Focus | Which Greek Islands Are On Your Bucket List?
Now, I know what you're thinking – "How on earth do I choose?" BUT LET ME TELL YOU - Choosing the islands should be as fun as picking your Netflix binge for the night!
Here are some amazing Greek islands and what they are known for to help you get started and narrow down some options:
Crete - Rich history and mythology, diverse landscapes (mountains, pink sand beach, gorges), ancient sites like Knossos Palace, and Cretan cuisine.
Corfu - Venetian architecture, lush landscapes, historical sites like Achilleion Palace, and its vibrant main town, Kerkyra.
Kefalonia - Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach, Assos village, and the picturesque harbor of Fiskardo.
Milos - Unique landscapes with colorful volcanic rocks, Sarakiniko Beach, catacombs, and the statue of Aphrodite (Venus de Milo) in the Archaeological Museum.
Mykonos - Vibrant nightlife, picturesque windmills, beautiful beaches, and a lively atmosphere. Mykonos Town is famous for its narrow streets and chic boutiques.
Naxos - Long sandy beaches, ancient ruins (Portara), traditional villages, and the scenic Apiranthos mountain village.
Paros - Charming villages like Naoussa and Parikia, beautiful beaches (Golden Beach), and traditional Cycladic architecture.
Rhodes - Medieval Old Town, Palace of the Grand Master, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches. Lindos Acropolis is a must-visit.
Samos - Beautiful beaches, ancient ruins (Heraion), Pythagoreion, and sweet Muscat wine.
Santorini - Iconic white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, breathtaking sunsets, and volcanic landscapes. Oia and Fira offer some of the best views.
Skiathos - Lush green landscapes, stunning beaches (Koukounaries), and the lively atmosphere of Skiathos Town.
Zakynthos - Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), Blue Caves, loggerhead sea turtles (caretta-caretta), and vibrant nightlife in Laganas.
Reality Check | How Many Greek Islands Should You Actually Visit?
First things first, how many of the 6,000 (over 200 inhabited) islands are we talkin' about? Remember, quality over quantity is key. Do you want to see little of everything or truly explore each island you visit?
My advice - Don't try to pack too many islands into a short trip (even though you might be a fast traveler like me) – you'll be rushing and miss the chance to truly connect with each place.
Short Trip (5-7 days)
Explore 2-3 islands within close proximity, like Santorini, Ios, and Naxos or venture out to less touristy islands such as Andros and Syros in the Cyclades.
OR
Choose two contrasting islands for a diverse experience, like Santorini and Mykonos OR Crete and Milos.
Medium Trip (10-12 days)
Explore 4-5 islands in a group like the Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos, Patmos) or the Ionian Islands (Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos). This offers variety while keeping travel logistics manageable.
OR
Choose 2-3 islands from different groups connected by convenient ferry routes, like Mykonos in the Cyclades, Crete, and Rhodes in the Dodecanese. This allows you to experience different island vibes and landscapes.
Longer Trip (14+ days)
Explore 5+ islands from various groups based on your interests. Combine historical Crete with Santorini's romance, the party scene of Mykonos with the laid-back charm of Paros, and so on.
OR
Spend a few days exploring Athens and mainland Greece before island hopping for a richer cultural experience. Visit Delphi, Olympia, or Meteora for a taste of historical wonders.
Timing is Everything | How Many Days Should You Spend on Each Island?
The ideal number of days to spend on each island depends on your personal preferences, the size of the island, and the activities you plan to do.
As a general rule, smaller islands can be seen in a day or two while larger islands like Crete will need about 3-4 or 7 days.
Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that allows you to enjoy each island without feeling rushed.
All You Need to Know About the Greek Ferries
Passes and Discounts
Greece doesn't have a comprehensive ferry pass that covers all routes and islands. BUT, I have got some secret approaches for you that I don’t hear about often!
1. Point-to-Point Ferry Tickets:
This is the most common and flexible option, because you can customize your itinerary. Meaning you can buy separate tickets for each route for the islands and dates you have selected. Purchase tickets directly from ferry companies' websites or authorized agents like Ferryhopper.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Choose specific routes and dates that fit your plan. | Requires booking each leg separately. |
Access various ferry types, speeds, and companies. | Might not be as economical for frequent travel. |
Compare prices across providers for best deals. |
You can also book each separate leg using the same tool and pay it all together as a one time payment.
Pro tip - Remember to use a card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee (like amex or any other you may have) even when booking online. My bank charged me $25 and that was not fun. Well I learned my lesson and you learn from mine.
2. Eurail or Interrail Greek Islands Pass:
If you are exploring mainland Greece and hopping through several islands, these passes offer discounted ferry travel within a specific timeframe (4 or 6 days).
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Can be cheaper than individual tickets for frequent island hopping. | Only covers specific duration and routes. |
Covers ferry travel within the validity period. | Only valid for Eurail/Interrail pass holders. |
3. Island-Specific Passes:
Some islands offer local passes like the "Blue Star Ferries Cyclades Pass" or the "Minoan Lines Crete Pass," providing travel between specific islands at a discounted rate.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Can save money if hopping within specific island groups. | Only valid for specific islands and routes. |
Covers multiple journeys within the pass's validity. | Less flexibility compared to point-to-point tickets. |
Remember...
Book in advance: Ferry tickets, especially during peak season, they get snagged up quickly.
Compare prices and options: Choose the approach that best suits your itinerary and budget. |
Greek Ferries | How Much Do They Cost?
The cost of ferry tickets in Greece is quite variable depending on numerous factors, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Here's a breakdown of how different factors affect the price:
Route: The distance and popularity of the route significantly impact prices. Short hops between nearby islands are cheaper than longer journeys or routes serving popular destinations like Santorini or Mykonos.
Season: Peak season (July-August) sees inflaaaaaaated prices compared to shoulder seasons (April-June, Sept-Oct) and the off-season (Nov-March).
Ferry type: High-speed ferries are generally more expensive than conventional ferries but offer faster travel times.
Seat type: Deck seats are the most affordable, while cabin or business class seats come at a premium.
Booking time: Booking in advance, especially during peak season, will get you a better deal as compared to last-minute.
If you're looking to limit your spend, consider avoiding the more expensive islands like Mykonos and Santorini.
Navigating the Greek Waters
Ferry system in Greece is very efficient and part of the island hopping experience. You will be in and out of the ferry very quickly (5-10) mins!
Arrive an hour early to find your spot. Some ferries have assigned seating 💺 and some don’t.
You can also board the ferry along with your rental car 🚙 ! Make sure to book the right option.
Some ferries are HUGE! With shopping 🛍️, arcade, restaurants, bars, etc onboard.
There are fast and slow ferries. Something to keep in mind if you have motion sickness 🤒.
You can track your ferry on the ferryhopper app and don’t need to print the physical tickets 🎟️. Just use the QR code and you are good to go.
Planning | Where to Start?
Plan your Greek island adventure wisely. July and August are super hot, hitting 100 F. If you like cooler weather and fewer people, go in May, June, September, or early October.
So let’s narrow it down step-by-step:
Figure out the number of days you can travel for
Narrow the islands with what appeals you the most
Select the number of islands you want to visit
Select the number of days you want to spend on each island
Go on ferryhopper and map out your itinerary
Book the tickets (No procrastination!)
Download the ferryhopper app (You won’t have to print your tickets 😀)
Pro tip: Tickets can disappear faster than a gyro disappears at a Greek feast. Book in advance and don’t wait for the last minute, especially for summer travel!
Island Activities | What to Book
Greece's diverse islands offer something for everyone, so let's take a look at what you can do as you spend time on each of the islands:
Beaches
Snorkeling & Water Sports
Elafonissi Beach (Crete) for turquoise waters and pink sand
Balos Lagoon (Crete) for exotic reefs and windsurfing
Mikri Vigla on Naxos for windsurfing lessons
Crete's Water Planet for scuba diving excursions
Relaxation
Mylopotas Beach (Mykonos) for sunbeds and cocktails
Falasarna Beach (Crete) for a calm day
Agios Sostis Beach (Mykonos) for a peaceful cove
Water Adventures
Cultural Experiences
Hiking & Nature Trails
Culinary Tours
Nightlife & Entertainment
Wellness & Relaxation
Family-Friendly Activities
Here Are Some Island Hopping Itineraries To Get You Started:
Day 1-2: Athens
Day 3-4: Santorini
Day 5-7: A second, lesser-known Greek island
Long Trip:
Day 1-3: Athens 🏛️
Day 4-6: Milos 🏖️
Day 7-9: Santorini 🌅
Day 10-15: Crete 🏛️
Day 16-17: Mykonos 🎉
Resources
Ferry Company Websites
Each ferry company lists fares on their official website. Compare prices across companies for specific routes and dates.
Ferryhopper: This popular platform offers fares from various companies and allows filtering by route, date, and other preferences.
Direct Ferries: This aggregator provides fare comparisons across multiple ferry companies.
Car Rentals
Credit Cards
Useful Apps
Google Maps (iOS/Android) - Download offline maps! That comes in handy when you don't have internet access. Download maps of the islands you plan to visit, so you can navigate without racking up data roaming charges.
Airalo (iOS/Android) - Still want to use data? Purchase affordable eSIM data packs to avoid roaming charges. Instantly access data upon landing in Greece.
Google Translate (iOS/Android) - While English is widely spoken, this can help you navigate menus, signs and basic conversations.
Ferryhopper (iOS/Android) - A must-have for island hopping in Greece. It allows you to search routes, compare ferry times and prices, and book tickets with just a few taps. You can track your ferry's location and get updates on any delays or changes.
Free Now (iOS/Android) - A popular taxi booking app that operates in many Greek cities and islands like Athens, Thessaloniki, Rhodes and Crete. Hail a cab with a tap.
InDriver (iOS/Android) - This ride-hailing app is also available in Greek destinations and allows you to negotiate fares with nearby drivers before booking.
Thanks for reading!
Disclosure: Some of the links provided on this website are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Please note that I only recommend products or services that I have personally used and genuinely believe will be valuable to my readers. The commissions earned through affiliate links help support the maintenance of this blog and allow me to continue providing quality content for you.
Your trust and satisfaction are of utmost importance to me, and I assure you that I will always strive to maintain the integrity and honesty of this blog. If you have any questions or concerns regarding affiliate links or anything else, please feel free to reach out to me. |