If you’re reading this, you are probably dreaming of your next holiday – that of Greek island hopping, right? Well dream no more, let’s start planning your trip to Greece right here, right now. Planning your dream trip to Greece can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. After spending a summer Greek island-hopping a few years ago and soaking up the Mediterranean sun, I’ll help you plan the perfect Greek Island hopping vacation – read on.

When is the Best Time to Visit Greece and the Greek Islands?

The best weather in Greece is from late April to early November. This is when there is lots of sunshine and little rain. So if you are wanting to spend your time swimming and sunbathing and sight seeing plan to visit during these months. To break this time up even more:

During May and June, which is spring in Greece, you will encounter mild to warm temperatures which is perfect for sightseeing, exploring archaeological sites, enjoying activities outdoors and even swimming if you don’t mind dipping your toes into cool waters. This is shoulder season and so you should get a better deal with accommodation.

July, August and early September are the warmest months in Greece and is the peak tourist season. There will be very hot temperatures, lots of sunny days but large crowds are drawn to Greece during this time. The islands and beaches are often overcrowded and accommodation prices can skyrocket. It can be a little unbearable sightseeing during this time.

If after few crowds, more affordable accommodation but still be treated to warm temperatures, then plan your visit to Greece during September and October.

You can, of course visit Greece and the Greek islands during the colder months from November to April – just bring warmer clothes.

How Long Should You Spend Sailing the Greek Islands?

How long you spend sailing around the Greek islands will depend on how long you’ve got. You could visit one island in a day if that is all the time you have. However, a week or two or longer will give you plenty of time to visit a number of islands, plus mainland Greece if you want. 

Is it Easy to Island Hop in Greece?

Simply put, yet, it is very easy to island hop in Greece and people have been doing it for a long time so there is a very good infrastructure to Greek island hop. The two ways people island hop are to fly or sail on a ferry. Some of the larger islands have airports making them easy to reach. Many of the other islands, large and small are linked by ferry services.

The main things to consider when planning your Greek island hopping holiday are your budget, your timeframe, and where you’re starting from. There is an island-hopping itinerary suitable for every budget and length, making planning a Greek island adventure simple and fun.

Is Island Hopping in Greece Expensive?

Hopping from island to island in Greece can rack up a large bill. There are plenty of options for high-speed ferries, luxury hotels, and fine dining that will cost a pretty penny. However, island hopping doesn’t have to break the bank. There are ways you can cut down costs but still enjoy the luxuries of the Mediterranean islands. The more you hop between islands, the more you will pay as ferry rides tend to be expensive, especially during peak season. If you want to hop between islands every few days, expect your costs to rise. Hotel prices on the islands vary but rise to high levels during the summer. A great option for getting the Greek island hopping experience on a budget is to travel during the off-season. You’ll pay lower prices for ferry tickets and hotels, as wells as benefit from fewer crowds. Some people will take a night sailing to save on accommodation costs. A ticket is just a ticket to ride the ferry, if you want to get some sleep you might want to upgrade to a sleeping seat or cabin.

Best Greek Islands to Visit

Where do you begin when planning your Greek vacation? There are many islands to choose from, so it’s important to consider what is most important to you. There is an island for everyone, from solo travelers to families to couples to party-goers. Now there are some 6,000 islands and islets in Greece with inhabitants on 277 so how do you choose which Greek island to visit? Here’s a quick overview and are just suggestions.

Best Greek Islands for families – Naxos and Corfu
For party goers – Mykonos and Zakynthos
Best islands for nature lovers – Andros and Ikaria
For couples – Santorini and Paros

Where are the Greek Islands

To best see where the Greek Islands are, check out the map.

The Greek islands are categorised into the following main groups. It’s easier to choose islands that belong to the same group for island hopping, particularly if short of time. But some of the larger islands have an airport

1. Argo-Saronic Islands: Salamina, Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, Spetses

2. Ionian Islands: Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Paxos, Ithaca, Lefkada, Kythira 

3. Cyclade Islands: Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, and Santorini

4. Dodecanese Islands: Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kastellorizo, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Symi, Tilos, and Rhodes 

5. Northern Aegean: Chios, Ikaria, Forni, Lesvos, Lemnos, Samos, Samothraki, Thassos, Psara

6. Sporades Islands and Evia: Skiathos, Skyros, Skopelos, Alonnisos, Skyros, Evia

7. Crete Islands: Crete, Gavdos, Spinalonga, Dia, Chrysi, Paximadia

Which Greek Island to Visit?

As you can see from the map, there are many islands to visit – how will you choose which island or islands to visit? As I’ve only managed so far to visit 6 of the islands myself I have enlisted the help of other travel bloggers to explain about their favourite Greek island.

Ionian Sea Islands

Corfu

Favourite Greek Island of Jo @ World Wild Schooling

Sailing Corfu waters

Corfu, situated in the Ionian Sea, stands out as an epitome of Greek island charm with a unique twist. What sets it apart is its historical background that’s been influenced by various European cultures – a consequence of its past rulers.

Reaching Corfu is hassle-free. While ferries offer a scenic journey from the mainland, direct flights to the island’s international airport provide a faster alternative. We have visited Corfu several times and we love discovering the history and the natural beauty of the island. First of all, we cannot discuss Corfu without mentioning its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Roaming its alleys feels like a journey through time, with architecture echoing Venetian, French, and British eras.

There are also two Venetian castles in the Old Town, the Old and the New one, and several castles scattered around the island worth exploring, such as Aggelokastro. One of the most iconic views you can get in Corfu is the Pontikonisi Islet. Hop on a boat at Panagia Vlacherna Monastery and then explore the tiny islet itself.

But beyond its historical allure, Corfu is just beautiful with the lush greenery and the amazing beaches. Beaches like Paleokastritsa, with their crystal-clear waters, are nothing short of paradise. We also like the long sandy beach of Agios Gordios, and Sidari is famous for Canal d’Amour, the most unique beach cove on Corfu among rock formations.

And of course, the essence of any place lies in its people. The Corfiots, with their innate warmth and hospitality, have often become the highlight of our trip. Engaging in conversations, you might even be introduced to local traditions and the spirit of ouzo.

A trip to Corfu promises a blend of history, pristine landscapes, and an authentic cultural experience. It’s a destination that offers both exploration and relaxation, making it a top choice for anyone visiting Greece. Definitely put this Greek island on any Greek island hopping holiday.

Lefkada

Favourite Greek Island of Jolene @ Wanderlust Storytellers.

Sit in a water-side restaurant at Sivota on Lefkada

Lefkada is a breathtaking Greek island known for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. It is one of the islands in the Ionian Sea. We visited Lefkada on a family trip with our 6 year old daughter. The reason why we loved Lefkada so much is because it has a much more local feel in comparison to other islands in Greece (which has more tourists than locals!). It was also a bit quieter in comparison to the other more popular Islands.

One of the best spots on the island is Porto Katsiki. To reach the beach you will need to walk down the 100 or so steps, but trust me it’s totally worth the effort! This stunning beach is surrounded by steep, white cliffs and has clear, blue waters for a refreshing dip. Remember to pack everything you need, as going back up the steps for food might not be appealing.

A few more great spots that we loved and that you should not miss out on are Sivota and Nydri Waterfalls. Sivota is a charming village with a rich history and stunning architecture. Nydri Waterfalls is reached via a short walk through lush greenery and citrus trees that leads to the magnificent 40-foot waterfalls, encircled by unique rock formations. When we visited it was a warm day, and enjoyed the refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water below the falls.

Lefkada Island is easily accessible from the mainland by car, ferry, or flight from international and Greek cities. It’s a perfect must-see destination and even makes a great island for a day trip.

Zakynthos or Zante

Favourite Greek island of Anja @ Anja on Adventure

Navigatio Beach – secluded and beautiful but way overcrowded

Why is Zakynthos, or Zante, one of my favorite Greek islands? It is close to Athens, has an airport and good plane connections. Here I was able to find white sandy beaches and sea turtles, which I love. And if you are into partying, you should definitely visit the south of the Island.

I came to Zante from Athens. The 6-hour bus ride and a short ferry ride were manageable and the buses were in good condition. Plus the fare was cheap and I paid for my ticket online. If you are short on time, you can also fly to Zante from Athens, which will take less than an hour. After my visit, I was flying to Venice. It also has routes to other Greek Islands and European countries.

The main reason for my visit were sea turtles. I joined a tour that departed from the south of the island, to see the endangered Caretta caretta turtle. But to be fair, after the tour, I was able to spot them on most beaches surrounding Zakynthos. Second reason were of course beaches and visiting the most famous one – Navagio Beach. When I visited Zante island, the lookout was closed but in I was able to go on a boat tour. It is beautiful but also extremely crowded, so I can understand the Greek government, why they closed the beach for summer 2023. It was too many tourists and not enjoyable at all.

Besides delicious greek food, and cute villages, this is a perfect destination for a vibrant nightlife. I haven’t tried it though. I wanted to relax. Which I did since this island is less crowded than some more popular ones like Santorini, Paros or Mykonos. It is also small enough to see it all in a relaxed pace during a 7 day holiday.

Saronic Islands

Agistri

Favourite Greek Island of Rai @ A Rai of Light

Agistri Island, Greece

For the most authentic and undisturbed experience, you can’t beat the island of Agistri. Located in the Saronic Gulf, this hidden gem can be reached by ferry in under an hour from the capital. Despite its easy accessibility, this small pine-clad island boasts pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters and offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I found that the tranquil atmosphere and its natural beauty creates an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

My favorite spot on the island is Skala Beach, followed closely by Dragonera Beach that offers seclusion and tranquility. The church of Agioi Anargyroi and the beach promenade are also worth seeing. Don’t miss the chance to explore the whitewashed houses and local shops of Megalochori. The best way to see the island is by renting a bike. I also enjoyed taking relaxed walks along one of the many scenic trails that crisscross through nature. It is possible to enjoy the island and its authentic Greek charm without the hoards of crowds that is often associated with many of the other islands in this region. As one of the cheapest islands in Greece, Agistri is an ideal destination for both day-trippers and those seeking a longer getaway.

Cyclades Islands

Ios

Favourite Greek Island of Valentina of Valentinas Travel Guide

Enjoy the sandy beaches on Ios

If you are looking for a Greek island vacation that involves relaxing on the beach during the day and dining on traditional Greek cuisine in the evening, then Ios may be the perfect destination for you. Ios Island is a small island that can be comfortably explored daily. During the months of July and August, it is popular as a party destination, but if you visit during June or September, it transforms into one of the most peaceful islands in Greece.

During my Greek island hopping trip in September, I visited Ios, which quickly became my favorite destination. Ios can be easily reached by ferry from Athens and the nearby islands, as there is no airport on the island. If you plan on island hopping, I recommend visiting Ios after Paros and before heading to Santorini.

Most of the hotels on Ios Island are located on the hill surrounding the main village of Chora or along the coast. Therefore, you will need transportation to reach your accommodation from the port. However, many accommodations offer a free port pick-up service. You can either use the local buses or rent a car to move around the island. If you choose to stay in Chora, you will enjoy a lovely view, especially at sunset. To reach the most famous beach on the island, Paralia Milopotas, you can take the local buses that will get you there in just 5 minutes. Paralia Milopotas offers gold sand, and for 2 sunbeds & a beach umbrella, I paid € 20. The restaurants nearby deliver breakfast, lunch, and dinner straight to your sunbed.

A shop you must take advantage of on Ios Island is Mosenta Traditional Products of Ios, in the town of Chora. There, you can find all the local souvenirs (mostly food), like Greek cookies, local thyme honey, olive oil soap, and much more.

Milos

Favourite Greek Island of Haley @ Haley Blackall Travel

Sarakiniko Beach in Milos

Unlike some of the more commercialised Greek islands, Milos offers an authentic raw, untamed beauty. It’s a paradise for those who, like me, love to explore unique geological formations, quaint fishing villages, and some of the most stunning beaches in the Aegean.

Getting to Milos is a breeze. You have options: a quick 40-minute flight from Athens or a 2.5-7-hour direct ferry ride if you’re in the mood for a scenic journey. I’ve done both, and honestly, the ferry is a great way to kick off your vacation.

Now, why choose Milos for your next Greek holiday? First off, Sarakiniko Beach is a must-see. Imagine walking on the moon but with the luxury of dipping into azure waters. The white volcanic rocks create a surreal, lunar landscape, especially at dawn and dusk. Then there are the colourful fishing villages like Klima and Mandrakia. These are places where time seems to stand still. The houses, called “sirmata,” are painted in vibrant hues and offer a picturesque contrast to the blue sea. For the perfect sundowner, take in the sweeping views of the entire island from the castle ruins atop the charming hilltop town of Plaka, one of the best places to stay in Milos.

Lastly, don’t miss Fyriplaka and Tsigrado Beaches. Fyriplaka has this massive orange rock that provides natural shade and Tsigrado is a hidden gem you reach by a rope ladder. Both offer crystal-clear waters and an escape from the crowds.

Naxos

Favourite Greek Island of Martin @ Places of Juma

White washed buildings on the seaside on Naxos

The island of Naxos is definitely one of my favorite islands in Greece and an excellent suggestion for an unforgettable vacation when Greek island hopping. This idyllic island is located in the Cyclades. It is easily accessible from Athens by plane or ferry. Naxos Island is a true sandy beach paradise and has some of the absolute most beautiful sandy beaches. The crystal clear, turquoise waters and the velvety soft sand create a picture postcard atmosphere on this island.

But there is more! The coastal town of Naxos, with its whitewashed old town and fascinating Kastro fortress, is a gem. You’ll also find the island’s emblem, the Apollonian Gate. Located on a nearby peninsula, it is the most popular photo opportunity on the island. A visit to the famous Portara at sunset is an experience not to be missed.

In the mountainous hinterland of the island there are charming villages to discover. Halki, Filoti and the marble village of Apeiranthos are particularly charming, immersing visitors in the authentic island atmosphere. For those who like it a little more adventurous, you can take a tour by quad bike or by rental car to the remote north of the island or to the quiet east coast of the island.

Santorini

Favourite Greek Island of Shweta Singhal @ Zest in a Tote

Oia town on Santorini is peaceful during early morning hours

When you think of a quintessential greek island, chances are that images of white walls with blue roofs overlooking a deep blue caldera come to mind. Crowded and touristy inn parts, Santorini lives up to its hype! Santorini is part of Cyclades group and lies halfway between Athens and Crete. You can take a flight from Athens to reach Santorini, or a ferry would be more economical (ferry trip of about 5 hours).

Santorini has unique geology with volcanic sand beaches and a vast caldera. Seeing a spectacular sunset over this caldera is one of the best sights in this island. You can take a sunset boat ride in the caldera for a unique experience. There are many lovely beaches here – Persia, Kamari and the Red Beach. Relax at one of these beaches, eat fresh seafood and see the waves rolling over the ocean. Santorini should feature on any Greek itinerary, whether it is for couples or a family vacation with kids.

Oia is the most popular town on this island. But do remember that Oia gets super crowded during the summer months of July and August, especially when large cruise ships visit the island. Still, Santorini is a must include on any Greek island hopping holiday.

Antiparos

Favourite Greek Island of Paulina @ Paulina on the Road

Antiparos, a small island in Greece, holds a special place in my heart.

Its tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming locals make it my favourite vacation spot. Getting to Antiparos is relatively easy, as you can take a ferry from Paros, a larger nearby island easily accessible by either plane or boat. Once on Antiparos, the island’s charm is immediately felt.

This island has everything from stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters to old traditional houses and secluded alleyways. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with your family, you’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy the island’s beauty. As for accommodation, plenty of options are available in Paros, which you can easily access by ferry.

You won’t have problems where to stay in Paros because whether you prefer a cozy and traditional cottage, a luxurious sea-view villa, or a hotel with all the amenities, there’s something for everyone. I recommend staying close to the main village, where you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visiting Antiparos is an experience like no other, and I can’t wait to go back and explore more of its hidden gems.

Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds or want to experience a different side of the Greek islands, Antiparos is definitely worth a visit while Greek Island hopping.

Crete and Surrounding Islands

Crete

Favourite Greek Island of Peta and Jonas @ Exit45Travels

Old Town Chania, Crete

Crete, Greece’s largest island, holds a special place in our hearts for numerous reasons. First and foremost, it is a living tapestry of history and culture. As the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete’s historical significance is palpable, with the iconic Palace of Knossos offering a captivating glimpse into this ancient world. But it’s not just the rich history that sets Crete apart. Its landscapes are equally enchanting, ranging from the dramatic Samaria Gorge, to the idyllic beaches that fringe its coastline. This diversity ensures there’s something for every type of traveller and adventurer.

Cretan cuisine is a true revelation for foodies. With a focus on freshly pressed olive oil, aromatic herbs, and locally sourced ingredients, dining here is a sensory journey that defines Mediterranean culinary excellence.

Crete’s accessibility is another advantage, with easy access via Heraklion or Chania airports and picturesque ferry rides from Athens and other nearby islands. It also serves as an ideal launching pad for island-hopping adventures, connecting you to other Greek destinations. From historical exploration to hiking, water sports, and beach relaxation, the island offers a plethora of activities. Quaint villages like the old town in Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos provide authentic glimpses into traditional Greek life.

Moreover, Crete manages to offer upscale resorts and boutique hotels at a fraction of the cost compared to some other European destinations. It’s affordable luxury at its finest.

Lastly, visiting Crete during a Greek holiday allows you to immerse yourself in the very soul of Greece, where the spirit of hospitality and the beauty of the country converge. It’s an experience you will remember long after you leave this enchanting island.

Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes

Favourite Island of Josh @ A Backpacker’s World

Rhodes

My favourite Greek island is Rhodes. It’s a really special island, and even after visiting after the 2023 summer wildfires, it’s still a popular destination and I love it there. Just like many of the other Greek islands, Rhodes is filled with history. There are plenty of ancient ruins scattered all across the island.

The most popular is, of course, the Lindos Acropolis, which in my opinion, isn’t far short of The Acropolis in Athens. You also have the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes which is a 7th century. I visit the castle every time I visit Rhodes, it’s a must-do. Another prime example of how incredible Rhodes is, is that the Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO Site, or at least part of it. The “Medieval City of Rhodes” is absolutely beautiful, and simply walking the streets feels like you are stepping back in time.

It’s also really easy to get to Rhodes. The airport is well-connected and you can get flights from pretty much anywhere in Europe. And getting around Rhodes is easy too, public transport is reliable across the island and destinations like Rhodes Old Town or Faliraki are walkable, which I love as walking is my favourite way to get around on a trip.

All in all, Rhodes is incredible, and it’s by far my favourite Greek island.

How to Island hop in the Greek Islands

Once you have decided on the islands you want to visit you will need to organise how you will get to them. There are three ways to Greek island hop.

Greek Island Hop by Air

Many of the larger Greek islands have an airport so one way to island hop around the Greek islands is to fly. Fly can be faster than sailing and will allow you to spend more time on a particular island. The main Greek airlines, Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air and SKY Express, operate flights to and from the Greek islands throughout the year. There are other airlines including charter companies that fly to the Greek islands. Check out Skyscanner as well to find the right flight to and around Greece.

Greek Island Hop on a Cruise Ship

Fancy living in luxury while stopping at a Greek island or two for the day! Well you can if you go on a Greek island cruise. There are a number of cruise ship companies that cruise around the Greek islands including Azamara Greek Island Cruises, Star Clippers Greek Island Cruises and Windstar Greek Island Cruises. There are others so I suggest you do an internet search for them or go into a travel agency and pick up a brochure on Greek island sailing.

Greek Island Hop by Ferry

The Greek ferry system has been the lifeline of the Aegean for many years. It connects the mainland Greece with dozens of the inhabited islands. Many Greeks use the system as a regular commute while travelers use it to explore and discover many of the Greek islands. It is easy to hop on a ferry and arrive on a different island within a few hours or overnight.

Me in my sleeping bag catching an overnight ferry

Greek ferries do not run between every island. They generally run between Athens and every island and then to nearby islands. There are two ferry ports that serve Athens – Piraeus closer to the city, and Rafina is closer to the airport. Most travelers use Piraeus, as it is easy to access via central Athens and serves the most ferry routes to the islands. There is a direct train from downtown Athens (Monastiraki station) to the Piraeus ferry port that takes about 20 minutes.

The main ferry companies in Greece include Blue Star Ferries offering frequent connections between the mainland and islands such as Cyclades, Rhodes and Crete. While Hellenic Seaways cover numerous routes throughout the Aegean. Other operators include SeaJets, Minoan Lines and ANEK Lines. You can book tickets at Piraeus port or check out a ferry booking service such as FerryHopper.com.

Where Will You Stay on Your Greek Island Hopping Holiday?

The Greek islands have a variety of accommodation options available. From budget hostels to villas with every other type of accommodation in between. Once you have chosen your islands to island hop to it is wise to book some accommodation ahead of your arrival. Sometimes you can get an all-inclusive package of airfare, hotel and meals but I always use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

Are You Ready to Greek Island Hop?

Greece is such an interesting and beautiful place to visit. It has unique buildings, fascinating history, culture and food for you to experience on each island. Are you ready to discover some of the best places to visit in Greece? I’d love to hear about your Greek adventures in the comments below.