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Greece Travel Advisories and Warnings

In addition to planning trips and packing, travelers have another item on their to-do list: checking for current travel advisories related to their destination. Travel advisories are complex, and deciding whether or not to travel when there is a travel advisory or warning in place, is not an easy decision. The U.S. Department of State provides up-to-date information that will help a traveler decide whether or not to travel in Greece.

It is recommended that travelers sign up for the U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) which helps the embassy alert you in times of trouble. STEP is a free service allowing U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The program also assists family members in contacting you during your travels should there be an emergency.

About U.S. Travel Advisories

The United States issues two types of advisories, the "Travel Warning" and the "Travel Alert." Though the wording may be a little confusing, The "Travel Warning" is actually the more serious of the two and tends to be put in place when a country is so unstable that travel may be actively dangerous. At any given time, several dozen continuously unstable or dangerous countries may be on the list. There is a general "Worldwide Caution" in effect as of July 2018. When a Worldwide Caution is put in place, the advice from the State Department is, "U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness."

The less-serious "Travel Alert" is usually issued in response to a particular event or condition such as a storm, planned protests, potentially contentious elections, even sporting events with a history of generating violent outbursts among fans. Usually, there are five or six countries listed for various reasons. If there is an expected problem in any country, it would most likely generate a "Travel Alert," usually for a relatively short period of time.

Understanding advisories are made more complicated because some news services, bloggers, or social media outlets may hear of a "Travel Alert" or "Travel Advisory" and rephrase it as a "Travel Warning" when they mention it. So don't assume your trip is at risk until you check the details directly with the State Department.

Travel Alerts and Warnings in Greece

Greece is rarely under a travel alert or travel warning, and in general, it's a very safe country to visit compared with some other nations. Though strikes and protests occur and often garner media attention, for most Greeks it's business as usual. And, there are steps travelers can take in Greece to have a safe trip.

The U.S. State Department is advising citizens to carry their passports with them at all times. It's always good practice to carry your passport and/or a color copy of your main passport pages on you as a proof of your identity and citizenship. And, if it's convenient, add a copy of the page showing your entry stamp into Greece once you are in the country.

Although, as of July 2018, there is no warning or alert listed for Greece , specifically, the U.S. Department of State warns of the potential of transnational terrorist attacks in European countries. The warning indicates that all European countries are potentially vulnerable to terrorist attacks focused on public areas where tourists and locals may gather and provides detailed  safety information  to help tourists avoid becoming an opportunistic target.

If there is a current Travel Warning or Alert for Greece from the U.S., it will be listed on the  Travel Advisory  page of the U.S. State Department website.

You may also want to check the official U.S. Department of State General  Information Sheet on Greece. Aside from providing travel information for those going to Greece, the page links to the American Embassy in Athens and to any special announcements the Embassy releases.

Other nations may issue similar travel warnings and alerts but generally, the U.S. alerts are based on the same information and reflect the situation accurately. Frequently, mild warnings are just included under the general "Travel Advice" pages on the various nations' websites.

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Is it safe to travel to Greece, and does my insurance cover wildfires?

Wildfires on the Greek islands of Rhodes and Corfu have left thousands of travelers stranded.

As of Sunday, about 19,000 people in villages and resorts on Rhodes had been evacuated as wildfires spread across the island. Local news outlet Ellada 24 described the operation as the largest fire evacuation ever carried out in the country. Corfu has seen about 2,400 people evacuated.

It's estimated that about 10,000 British tourists are currently stranded on Rhodes.

The General Secretariat for Civil Protection in Greece has announced a Category 4 alarm (very high risk) for many areas based on its Daily Fire Risk Map . According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Greece , "high risk of fire is expected to continue in the coming days."

Several travel companies and airlines — including Tui and Thomas Cook — have reportedly canceled planned trips to Rhodes, according to The Guardian.

So far, two rescue flights operated by EasyJet have repatriated 421 people back to the U.K., with a third flight scheduled for Tuesday. Three repatriation flights operated by Tui are scheduled for Monday evening.

Despite the current situation on the ground, many airlines continue selling flights with immediate departures as of Monday morning.

Here's what you need to know if you are currently stuck in Rhodes or Corfu, or have plans to visit the Greek islands in the coming days and weeks.

Can I still travel to Rhodes and Corfu?

Airlines are still flying to and from Rhodes and Corfu, and as the situation currently stands, most travel and flights to Greece are going ahead.

The U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has not yet advised people to avoid travel to Rhodes or Corfu, though it does warn of "active wildfires in Greece."

Appearing on BBC Radio 4's "Today" program , Olga Kefalogianni, the tourism minister for Greece, said that tourists can still fly to Rhodes.

"There has been no disruption in the airport and I think it's particularly important to stress that only a small part of the whole island of Rhodes is affected," Kefalogianni said.

What is the current government advice for travel?

Stopping short of advising against travel to the affected Greek islands, the U.K. Foreign Office has urged travelers to check with their travel operator or hotel before traveling.

"If you are planning to travel to Rhodes, please check with your travel operator or hotel, prior to travel, that the area you plan to visit is not impacted by the current wildfires," the FCDO said.

The U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Greece has advised U.S. citizens living in or traveling near the affected area to "exercise extreme caution" and "follow instructions from local authorities and closely monitor the local media and emergency alerts."

What are airlines and travel companies saying?

So far, several airlines have canceled flights to Rhodes; others are offering passengers the opportunity to change their current flights free of charge.

British Airways

The U.K's flag carrier is allowing travelers currently in Rhodes or Corfu to change their flights free of charge if they need to return home early. Any passengers due to fly between now and Sunday can also change their flights to a later date for free.

The popular budget airline has canceled its package holiday bookings in Rhodes until Aug. 1. However, flights to both Rhodes and Corfu are operating as normal. Passengers booked to travel to or from Rhodes between now and Saturday can transfer their flights to a new date or request a flight voucher.

All flights are currently operating as normal.

All flights and holidays to Rhodes have been canceled until July 31. The airline says affected customers have been contacted regarding "refund and rebooking options."

All flights to Rhodes are canceled through Tuesday. Passengers due to fly Wednesday can rebook or cancel their trip without additional charge. Travelers due to visit affected hotels or areas in Corfu have been told they will not be able to on Monday and Tuesday.

Any travelers set to stay at Tui Blue Atlantica Nissaki Beach, Pantokrator, Golden Mare, La Riviera or Nautilus hotels have been advised not to travel Monday or Tuesday.

Thomas Cook

The holiday company has canceled trips to affected areas of Rhodes until July 31. It has contacted its customers to arrange partial and full refunds.

How can I get help if I'm stuck in Rhodes or Corfu?

The Greek government has set up a crisis management unit to help if you are stuck and need assistance.

U.S. and U.K. residents can contact the unit at the numbers below:

• +30 210-368-1730
• +30 210-368-1259
• +30 210-368-1350

"If you are a British national affected by wildfires, please follow the guidance from the emergency services. Call the Greek Emergency Services on 112 if you are in immediate danger," the U.K. Foreign Office also advises.

To contact British consular assistance, call +4420 2008 5000. This line is operated 24/7.

For U.S. consulate or embassy guidance , call +30 210-729-4444.

Does my travel insurance cover wildfires?

In most circumstances, it's unlikely that your insurance coverage will offer a specific clause for wildfires. Additionally, governments have not yet advised people not to travel, so it's unlikely that you'd be able to claim on your insurance without a specific clause.

Insurance claims may be valid if your home government changes its advice and instructs people not to travel.

Related: The best travel insurance policies and providers

That said, it does depend on the insurance policy you have. In some instances, people with declared medical conditions or those who become ill due to the wildfires may be able to put forward a claim regardless of their government's travel advice.

As always, with insurance questions, we recommend reading the fine print of your policy to clearly understand the intricacies of what it may cover.

Can I get a refund on my holiday if I return home early?

Possibly, though this will entirely depend on where you are booked to stay, the conditions under which you leave and how you booked your vacation.

If you are traveling as part of a package deal and are forced to return home early due to the wildfires, you might not be entitled to a full reimbursement but could receive a partial refund. This is because the costs of flights will be taken into account and deducted from any refund, as you would still be traveling on the outbound and inbound flights. However, this could vary among package providers, and you should contact the company you booked with for further clarity.

If you booked directly with your accommodation provider and need to end your stay early, any refund policies will be specific to the individual hotel or rental that you booked with.

Can I still get home if I lost my passport during evacuation?

If you were evacuated from Rhodes or Corfu and could not grab your passport beforehand, don't worry.

In this instance, you should contact the Greek authorities. Or, if you're a U.K. resident, contact British consular assistance at +4420 2008 5000. This line is operated 24/7, and they should be able to help arrange temporary travel documentation, which will be accepted on your flight home.

Can I cancel an upcoming trip?

This will depend on the terms outlined by the company you booked your trip with. If the accommodation you were set to stay in has been affected by the fires, your trip may have already been canceled.

However, you may struggle if you are not due to visit an area affected by wildfires but want to preemptively cancel your holiday. We'd advise contacting your package provider or hotel in both circumstances.

If you have booked your flights and accommodation separately, you should receive a full refund for your airfare if the flight is canceled. However, you will need to reach out to your hotel to find out your options for reimbursement for your accommodation.

If your trip has been canceled due to governing authorities, either local or your home government, restricting travel to the area, you should be entitled to a refund.

Bottom line

Wildfires in Greece have upended vacations for thousands of travelers in Rhodes and Corfu. The most badly affected area right now appears to be Rhodes.

U.K. and Greek authorities are not currently warning people to avoid traveling to these Greek islands but do recommend exercising caution. Some airlines are allowing travelers to rebook upcoming outbound flights for later dates or change to earlier return flights if needed.

If you are currently in Rhodes or Corfu and require assistance , you can reach out to the crisis management unit set up by the Greek government at:

If you urgently require the Greek emergency services , you can reach them on 112.

To reach British consular assistance , call +4420 2008 5000.

For U.S. consulate or embassy guidance , call +(30)(210) 729-4444.

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Greece. 

Greece (PDF 325.12 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Greece.

• Extreme temperatures are affecting many areas of Greece, and more wildfires are possible throughout the summer months. Contact your travel provider and monitor the media for the latest updates. Read our advice on what to do if you're overseas and  there's a bushfire near you . 
• Strikes, protests and demonstrations take place regularly and can turn violent. Rioting can break out with little warning. Violent clashes have occurred between supporters of rival football teams. Avoid affected areas, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Petty crime and theft are serious issues in tourist areas and on buses and trains. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and slashing luggage to steal belongings are common. Pay close attention to your belongings.
• Terrorist attacks have occurred at or near popular tourist areas in central Athens. Always be alert. Take official warnings seriously.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. Drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, stay in air conditioning or shaded areas, and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Medications such as codeine are subject to special rules. Carry a prescription and a letter from your doctor.
• Measles is common in Greece. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.
• The standard of medical care varies. Public hospitals are short on medical supplies and provide limited nursing care. Family or friends usually provide care. 

Full travel advice: Health

• Always carry an ID, such as a photocopy of your passport.
• It's illegal to take photos of military sites and personnel. It's also illegal to smoke indoors.
• You may have to do military service if you're a male dual national. If you're of Greek descent and born outside of Greece, even if you don't think you're a Greek citizen, get advice from the nearest Greek  Embassy or Consulate  before you travel.
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Greece, though attitudes vary throughout the country. Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more accepting on Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Ios.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Greece is a part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  Greek embassy or Consulate  for enquiries about your ability to enter Greece from your departure country.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy  in Athens.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime

Petty crime is a serious issue in tourist areas, including Monastiraki and Syntagma Square in central Athens. It also occurs on public transport and in accommodation, including short-term rentals.

Theft, including pickpocketing, bag snatching and slashing luggage, is common on buses and trains to and from the Athens airport.

Organised groups of thieves often use distraction techniques, such as crowding and pushing at metro stop exits.

To reduce the risk of theft:

• stay in physical contact with your belongings, particularly on public transport and on buses and trains to and from the airport
• be alert at tourist spots in central Athens and on the islands
• don't leave bags on the back of chairs or the floor in cafés or restaurants
• carry your day bag with one strap across your body and carry small backpacks at the front of your body
• if driving on holiday, keep your valuables with you, always lock your vehicle, and park in a well-lit area or a secure car park.

Tourist scams

Tourist scams exist in Greece, including taxis, hotels, restaurants, and vehicle hire services. If you've been the victim of a scam, report your claims to the nearest Police station and be prepared to support your claim with evidence.

Under Greek law, all suppliers of goods and services must issue you a receipt. 

Physical and sexual assault

Serious  physical  and  sexual assaults  occur  in Athens and on islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Ios. There's also a risk of drink spiking with the intention of sexual assault.

Racially motivated and homophobic attacks have occurred.

To protect yourself:

• don't walk alone in isolated areas at night, especially in the Athens suburb of Omonia and at the railway and bus stations of Larissa and Peloponissos
• save the location of your accommodation on the maps app on your phone for easy access
• keep an eye on your drink and don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• create a shared communication chat with your fellow travellers to stay in touch if separated.

Before you travel, read our guidance on  reducing the risk of sexual assault . We also have an  advice page  on what to do immediately after a sexual assault, reporting a sexual assault overseas, and available counselling.

More information:

• Partying safety

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Terrorism occurs in Europe. Targets across Europe have included:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• public places popular with tourists

European security services have disrupted some planned attacks in recent years.

Radical groups have staged attacks, mainly in Athens. Attackers have previously used bombs or guns. People have been injured but rarely killed. Substantial damage to buildings and vehicles can occur.

Terrorist targets have included:

• government institutions
• former government ministers
• the offices of members of parliament
• foreign diplomatic missions

Terrorists haven't targeted tourists. But some attacks have happened near popular tourist areas in central Athens, such as Syntagma Square.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• take care around areas terrorists tend to target
• monitor the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

Report suspicious activity or items to the police.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Civil unrest and political tension

Protests and riots

Public protests, strikes, demonstrations and events that draw large groups of people occur regularly and often with little notice, mainly in central Athens around Syntagma Square, Omonia Square and Exarchia. They can also occur in major cities, including Thessaloniki around Aristotelous Square, Egnatia Street, the Arch of Galerius and the campus of Aristotle University. These protests can disrupt public transport and roads. Protesters and police could also clash. Sometimes petrol bombs and fireworks are thrown by protesters, and police deploy tear gas. 

Civil unrest is more likely on days of national or commemorative significance, including:

• 1 May — Labour Day
• 17 November — the anniversary of the 1973 student riots
• 6 December — the anniversary of the 2008 riots

Violent clashes can occur between supporters of rival football teams. Molotov cocktails and stones have been thrown and people have been killed.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid public protests
• monitor local media for possible unrest or strikes
• keep a low profile
• plan to avoid areas known for unrest on days of national significance
• change your travel plans if disruptions arise

Road closures

Road closures are common in Athens. Officials don't always announce them in advance.

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help with transport disruptions. 

Monitor the media for news on strikes that may cause road closures.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Greece experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

Information on national disaster incidents and severe weather is posted by local authorities and @112Greece (in Greek) on social media. Alert messages (in Greek) may be sent by local authorities to mobile numbers advising of critical incidents. For updated information on natural disasters, see  civilprotection.gov.gr .

Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in some regions, with road closures and interruptions to power and other services. Seek shelter, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Bush and forest fires occur during the summer months, from June to September. Fires can start close to cities and tourist locations with little warning and travel quickly. Fatalities have occurred. 

Expect travel disruptions if you're due to travel to an area that might be affected by wildfires. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest updates. The air quality during these periods may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. Forest fires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. 

• Floods and fires
• There's a bushfire

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Greece is in an active seismic zone and experiences  earthquakes  and  volcanic activity .

Get updates from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Natural disasters

If a natural disaster or severe weather happens:

• monitor local media and other sources
• keep informed about possible safety risks
• Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Greece. Take enough legal medicine for your trip in its original packaging. The name on the prescription should match the name on your passport.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Codeine and other prescription opiates can only be issued with a prescription from an accredited Greek medical professional.

For more information, contact the Greek National Organization of Medicines:

· By telephone: 0030 213 2040 395 / 285 / 225 / 000

· By email:  [email protected]  /  [email protected]  

• Australian Embassy in Athens

Health risks

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. They can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Drink water, wear a hat and light clothing and stay in air conditioned buildings or shaded areas. 

Many major tourist sites have little shade. At peak tourist periods, queues at major attractions can involve waiting over an hour in the sun. Plan your visit to these sites, keep an eye on the weather forecast, and follow the advice of local authorities.  

Measles  is common in Greece. The country is experiencing an increase in measles cases.

Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Outbreaks 2019
• Department of Health and Aged Care Measles Immunisation Service

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of  West Nile virus (WNV)  have been reported in Greece. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• Infectious diseases
• Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Foodborne diseases

Outbreaks of foodborne diseases, including  brucellosis , sometimes happen.

To protect yourself from illness, avoid:

• uncooked and under-cooked food
• unpasteurised dairy products

See a doctor immediately if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Services provided by hospitals and medical centres aren't free, and payment is required before you leave the facility. Sometimes, the medical provider may ask you for payment before you receive treatment.

The standard of medical facilities and care vary in quality. Public hospitals in Greece are below the standard in Australia. Considerable delays may be encountered with non-urgent surgeries and other medical treatments at public hospitals.

Public hospitals can have shortages of medical supplies, including essential medication. They also have limited nursing care. You may be asked to pay a minor fee for medical treatment at a hospital or medical centre. Friends and relatives are usually required to give around-the-clock care.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need evacuation. This is more likely if you're in a remote area or on a Greek island. You might be moved to Athens or another place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Public ambulances can be slow to respond to emergencies and vary in quality. Private hospitals operate their own ambulances and provide better quality service.

Private hospital costs are high.

You're subject to local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

Breaking the law can lead to severe penalties, large fines and jail.

Penalties for drug possession, use or trafficking, even small amounts, include heavy fines and prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Greece.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy

In Greece, it's illegal to:

• not carry a photo ID, such as a clear photocopy of your passport
• carry weapons of any type (including pocketknives and pepper spray) 
• smoke in indoor public places. The penalty is a fine of up to 500 euros.
• engage in sexual conduct with a person aged under 18
• breach customs rules about the export of Greek antiquities

It's also illegal to take photos of:

• military installations
• military personnel
• places with signs banning photography

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated. Drones must be registered for use across the European Union. 

Non-compliance may lead to fines and drone confiscation. 

Useful links

• Information for visitors concerning drones  - Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
• Civil drones  - European Union Aviation Safety Agency

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognised in Greece.

Greek males aged 19 and above have military service obligations. You may have to do military service if you're a male Australian-Greek dual national. This can apply if you are of Greek descent and were born outside of Greece, even if you don't think you have Greek citizenship.

There are penalties if you don't comply, and you may be prevented from leaving Greece.

Get advice from the nearest Greek  embassy or consulate  before you travel if you:

• have Greek citizenship
• may be eligible for Greek citizenship

Local customs

Dress codes are relaxed in tourist areas and resorts. Dress modestly in places such as churches and religious buildings.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas.

Same-sex sexual activity is legal but isn't widely accepted.

Advice for LGBTI people

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Greece is a part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, and you'll need a visa in some situations. Contact the nearest Greek  Embassy or Consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

• Visit Greece
• Embassy of Greece

Entry into Greece

Contact the nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate for the latest entry requirements.

Other formalities

Recognition of nationality.

If you were born in Greece, you might have problems entering if the place of birth stated on your Australian passport is no longer officially recognised by Greece.

Officials may deny entry, especially if you're entering Greece from the Republic of North Macedonia.

We can't intervene on your behalf if Greek officials refuse you entry to Greece.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Always carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the Schengen area .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

LGBTI travellers  

The official currency of Greece is the Euro.

You must declare amounts over 10,000 euros or equivalent if you're travelling between Greece and any non-European Union (EU) country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You don't need to declare it if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

You'll be fined if you don't declare it or declare the wrong amount when entering or leaving Greece.

Greece has daily ATM withdrawal limits. However, they don't apply to most major foreign debit and credit cards.

If you have Greek citizenship, you can only take up to 10,000 euros when leaving Greece.

Local travel

Extension of stays

Extension of stays in Greece beyond the allowed 90 days isn't automatic. Requests for extension with the relevant local authority should be lodged at least 4 weeks before your visa-free period expires. Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens issues.

Driving permit

Australian driver's licences are officially recognised as valid for use in Greece. If you plan on driving in Greece, you may not need an International Driving Permit. Contact the  Greek Embassy or Consulate  for more information on your licence type.

Your licence must be valid for the type of vehicle you'll drive, including quad bikes, motorbikes, mopeds, motor scooters and other similar vehicles.

You could face a large fine if you don't have the correct licence. Your insurance won't cover you if you have an accident.

Road travel

Driving is hazardous due to aggressive driving and poor-quality roads and vehicles.

Traffic police sometimes direct traffic at major intersections. If the traffic lights conflict with police directions, follow the directions of the traffic police.

During peak season, severe traffic congestion occurs in the main cities and on the islands. 

Drivers and motorcyclists often ignore traffic signals. They rarely give way to pedestrians.

Take care when crossing the road, including at pedestrian crossings, controlled intersections, and footpaths. Drivers often don't stop at pedestrian crossings.

Footpaths in Greece are very narrow and often blocked.

Check your insurance covers car hire and the use of quad bikes, motorbikes or jet skis. Get advice on any gaps. Your insurance may have conditions such as holding the correct licence for vehicles. Make sure you're covered. Check what additional fees may apply for any damage to hire vehicles.

Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of any illegal substance is illegal. Insurers won't cover accidents when drivers are under the influence of alcohol.

Driving offences may also attract heavy penalties.

• Driving or riding
• Driving in Greece - European Commission

Quad bikes and motorcycles

Quad bike and motorcycle accidents cause serious injuries and deaths every summer on the Greek islands. Operating or riding quad bikes and motorcycles while intoxicated is illegal.

Always wear a helmet. It's illegal not to wear one. It may also invalidate your travel insurance if you have an accident.

If you experience any issues with the operation of the bike, it's recommended that you return the bike as soon as possible to the rental company.

Only use licensed taxis. Always ensure the driver uses the meter. Be careful when using credit cards to pay fares. Ask for and check your receipt.

Ferries and large catamarans carry the bulk of visitors to the Greek islands. Some services do not provide suitable access for people with disabilities.

During the tourist season, from May to October, be prepared for high temperatures and large crowds at popular seaports.

Usually, there are only one or two brief announcements on ferries before arrival or departure.

In most cases, you'll need to carry your luggage up and down stairs. Help with luggage is usually unavailable unless you've booked a private cabin in advance.  

On some Greek islands, such as Santorini, smaller boats or tenders transport cruise ship passengers to and from shore. Passengers using tenders may have difficulty getting up and down stairs.

Arrange for a coach or taxi to collect you in advance, or you may find it difficult to get transport.

Make sure your insurance covers the following:

• any existing health condition
• your planned activities
• travel on ferry and cruise ships

Australian-flagged sailboats or yachts sailing in the Mediterranean may be subject to Greek and EU taxes and duties. Seek advice from the Hellenic Coast Guard or the nearest  embassy or consulate   of Greece before you travel. If you've been involved in a maritime accident, the Greek Coast Guard may request under its regulations to inspect your vessel to confirm it is seaworthy.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

To find out about flight delays at Athens International Airport, check their  website  or phone (+30 210) 353 0000.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Greece's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact local police at the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Tourist police

Are available 24/7 and can be contacted on 171.

The Tourist Police help with non-serious crimes and can provide police reports and certificates for theft of personal items and lost travel documents.

There are tourist police offices across Greece, including on major islands.

The main office is at 4 Dragatsaniou Street, Klafthmonos Square, in Central Athens and is open all year. Call (+30 210) 322 2230 or (+30 210) 322 2232.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact:

Australian Embassy, Athens

5 Hatziyianni Mexi Street

Athens 115 28, Greece

Phone: (+30 210) 870 4000

Website: greece.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Greece

Twitter: @AusAmbAthens

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Greece travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 25, 2024 15:14 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, greece - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Greece.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and luggage theft occurs. Tourists are frequently targeted.

Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:

• at tourist sites and attractions
• in restaurants, patios and bars
• in hotel lobbies
• on public transportation, including metro and trains to and from Athens International Airport
• at airports, bus and railway stations including Larissa and Peloponnese stations in Athens

While you’re in Greece:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
• avoid isolated areas, parks and down-market bars and restaurants, especially after dark

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as attacks committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities are uncommon, but do occur.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Victims of crime

If you are a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station to report it. Keep a copy of your report, as you may need it to make a claim to your insurance provider.

If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

The Greek police has a dedicated unit to assist foreign tourists and offers services in English and other languages.

You can contact the tourism police 24/7 anywhere in Greece by dialling the 1571 or the regular police at 100.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Extremist groups and organizations have used improvised explosive devices, bombs and arson attacks in urban areas to target:

• the Greek State and its institutions
• foreign commercial and diplomatic interests
• ethnic, religious and migrants’ centers and organizations

While tourists are not specifically targeted, you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations.

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. They are usually held on days of social or historical significance, such as:

• Workers' Day on May 1
• the commemoration of the Athens Polytechnic uprising of 1973 on November 17
• the commemoration of the riots of 2008 on December 6

In Athens, demonstrations and marches occur primarily in areas around:

• Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament
• Omonia Square
• the National Technical University complex on Patision Avenue
• Exarchia neighbourhood

In Thessaloniki, they occur primarily in areas around:

• Aristotelous Square
• Egnatia Street
• the Arch of Galerius
• the campus of the Aristotle University

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Demonstrations and strikes can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport and public health services. These strikes can disrupt travel and public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Foreigners have been sexually assaulted, most often on the islands.

Don’t accept rides from strangers or casual acquaintances.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Many beaches in Greece are supervised and enforce excellent safety procedures.

However, tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides.

Coral, urchin, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on.

• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Ask local authorities about the presence of dangerous species and immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt
• Wear reef shoes to protect yourself against stone and coral cuts or urchin stings
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat and don’t exceed it
• know and respect the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water
• keep a safe distance from areas reserved for certain activities such as snorkeling
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or mountaineering:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your hiking companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• be aware of the presence of dangerous species such as snakes
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• dial 112 from a cellphone for any emergency

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Severe traffic congestion and difficult terrain may lead to hazardous driving conditions.

Accidents causing fatalities are common. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and are reckless.

Drivers and speeding motorbikes don’t always yield to pedestrians or bicycles. Exercise caution when walking, crossing streets or biking.

Accidents involving tourists renting motorbikes, scooters or mopeds are common, especially on the islands.

Small, unlicensed rental agencies do not always offer vehicles that comply with up-to-date safety standards.

• Read the rental contract carefully
• Inspect the equipment before renting it
• Never drink and drive
• Reduce your speed on rough and uneven terrain
• In the event of an accident, wait for police to arrive

You may not be able to file an insurance claim without a police report.

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally safe and reliable. The bus network is extensive, and train services connect certain major cities. Athens has a modern metro system. Strikes may sometimes affect transportation services.

Taxis are generally safe. Metered taxis are widely available.

There are fixed rates for transportation to and from Athens International Airport. Confirm the rate before departure.

Ferries between mainland Greece and its islands meet European safety standards.

Weather conditions and strong winds can lead to cancellations or significant delays. Rough sea conditions may cause motion sickness, particularly on high-speed ferries.

• Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
• Always reconfirm departure schedule before heading to the port

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Greek authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Greece is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Work visa: required Student visa: required

If you must stay in Greece longer than 90 days due to serious and unforeseen events, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to seek an extension of your stay as a visitor.

Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens’ issues at least 15 days before your 90-day, visa-free period expires.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is adequate, but varies throughout the country.

Facilities are generally good in cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki and in towns that have large hospitals, such as Heraklion, Ioannina and Patras.

If you’re travelling to smaller islands or to remote areas, you may need a medical evacuation to a central hospital, in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Greece are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Greece to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Greece authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local police may ask to see your identification at any time.

• Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport or residence permit
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or stolen

Photography

There are restrictions on photographing and filming:

• military installations and military personnel
• border areas
• harbours, airports and other transportation hubs
• churches, monasteries and monks

In and around these areas, you should always:

• verify if photography is allowed or if a special permit is required
• request permission if individuals are involved
• refrain from photographing or filming if in doubt
• comply with all requests from local authorities

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.

You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

• Information to visitors concerning drones - Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
• Civil drones - European Union Aviation Safety Agency

Greece has strict laws regarding the possession and use of weapons and items that may be used as weapons, such as:

• knuckledusters
• pocketknife
• pepper spray

Do not buy or travel with these items.

Cultural heritage and antiquities

There are strict laws regarding:

• purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
• excavation and on-site archaeological research
• access to underwater archaeological sites
• filming and photography of archaeological sites for commercial purposes
• protection of archaeological sites and monuments

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

• have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archaeological sites
• obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities

While visiting archaeological sites and monuments:

• don’t film or photograph unless it is clearly allowed
• stay on the dedicated paths and respect off-limits areas
• don’t touch statues and monuments
• don’t pick up rocks or any other artifacts found on site

Greek Cultural Heritage law - Hellenic Society for Law and Archaeology

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Greece.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

National obligations

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, or are eligible for Greek citizenship, you may be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects of Greek law.

Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Greece prior to travel.

• National service - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa
• Greek citizenship - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Greece.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Greece, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Greek court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Greece to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If you plan on entering Greece by sea on your boat or a rented boat of a total length of over 7 metres, you must pay the Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee (TEPAI). This must be done online prior to arrival.

Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee - Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) (in Greek)

As a tourist or temporary resident, you can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence.

You must have valid insurance coverage.

You must wear a helmet when driving or as a passenger of a motorcycle, a scooter or a moped. You may be fined if you fail to comply.

Carrying an individual in an irregular migration situation in your vehicle, even without your knowledge, is a criminal offence. Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

Driving in Greece - European Commission

The currency of Greece is the euro (EUR).

ATMs may not be easily available in remote areas or may be out of cash. Make sure to carry some money if you plan on visiting small islands and remote regions.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Seismic activity

Greece is located in an active seismic zone. Major earthquakes could occur and can cause significant damage.

Santorini and Nisyros islands have active volcanoes.

If you’re travelling near an active volcano or are practising volcano tourism:

• closely monitor volcanic activity levels through local media and official sources
• ensure that you’re well informed about conditions that may pose a hazard
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes - National Observatory of Athens
• Volcanic eruptions - Ministry for climate crisis and civil protections

Seasonal storms and flooding

Seasonal storms and heavy rains can cause severe flooding and landslides particularly during the spring and winter months. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Weather forecast and alerts - Hellenic National Meteorological Service

Meltemi wind

The Meltemi or Etesian is a strong wind that regularly sweeps the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean seas from May to September. It can blow uninterruptedly for several days. This wind may bring high waves, strong currents and may disrupt transportation.

If you travel to Greece during this period:

• expect possible transportation delays or cancellations
• be very cautious if sailing or boating
• avoid swimming during rough sea conditions
• monitor the latest regional weather forecasts

Wildfires are common between July and September, particularly in:

• the Peloponnese
• Central Greece
• Eastern Macedonia and Thrace
• the northern areas of Athens.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local emergency services personnel, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Latest information on fires - General Secretariat for Civil Protection

Local services

• 112 for emergency assistance
• 1571 for tourist police
• 100 for police

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Greece, in Athens, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Greece

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Calling 999 from a UK mobile in Greece will automatically transfer you to the Greek emergency services.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Greece
• dealing with a  death in Greece
• being  arrested in Greece
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

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Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Greece and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British embassy Athens or one of our consulates .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

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The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Expert Greek Islands Travel Guide With Itinerary Routes

So you want to plan a trip to the Greek Islands and have no idea where to start? Luckily you have found an expert who has traveled the islands extensively.

With my guidance and the Greek Island travel guide below, I can ensure you don’t make the same mistakes I made 14 years ago on my first trip to Greece.

Since my maiden voyage to the Isles in 2010, I have visited some of the most famous and lesser-known Greek islands.

Compiling my decade of experience, I’ve put all my tips in one place to help you avoid the usual island-hopping mistakes.

This in-depth guide to the Greek Islands will help you understand the different island groups and how to craft your itinerary.

In case you’re still uncertain about your destination, I’ve put together a handy Greek Island Quiz to assist you in making your decision!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

Understanding The Main Island Groups

It is so important to understand the island groups when planning a Greek Island hopping itinerary.

And that is because some of these islands are extremely far from one another. For example, you are not going to “hop” from Crete to Corfu, you are going to fly.

Some Greek islands although seemingly close together can still be a little challenging to get to.

See the map below that gives you an overview of the Island Group in Greece.

When you are researching from island to island , you can get inspired when using the search feature in Ferry Hopper .

You can see below that I selected my departing port, but left the destination blank. Look to the right and there will be a display of direct routes.

You can play around with ferry schedules here to help you find your next island. It is not a perfect system , but it works very well if you understand these island groups.

Planning your Greek island route takes a little time and patience. But don’t worry, I will share my expertise and suggest Greek island hopping routes.

The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands

Timing your Greek Island getaway is important . Some of the most popular islands are incredibly crowded and overpriced in July in August. And I’m looking at you, Santorini and Mykonos…

If you are deadset on visiting these islands the best time to go would be late September. The crowds will have died down, the weather should still be great, and things will be on sale at the end of the season.

Ideally, you want to visit the Greek Islands between May and October. Many of the small islands are closed altogether during the winter months. Except the bigger islands like Rhodes and Crete that are functional all year round.

Choosing Where to Stay in The Greek Islands

No matter what island you are on, typically I focus on researching two areas, which are the Port and the Chora (the old town). It is especially important if you are traveling solo to the Greek Islands .

In the port and Chora, you will have access to many shops, bars, and restaurants. It is also where you will find the most transit options if you don’t rent a car.

For a more romantic and secluded experience on any island , you will need to rent a car .

Sometimes, off-the-beaten-path hotels will have shuttle buses to and from the old town, but you could be limited to that schedule.

Consider the experience you are looking to have and plan accordingly.

List of Greek Island Groups

Crete (largest greek island).

The largest Greek Island, Crete, is in a group all its own. This island has four regions, but two main cities that attract the majority of tourists. Chania “idyllic village” and Heraklion “historic village”.

Chania is much more delightful to visit if you are looking for a more relaxed chill vibe. Heraklion is BUSY , and in my opinion only worth visiting for the day.

Reymotho is another charming area in Crete to stay. You will find a nice seaside village with cute shops, good restaurants and a fortress high on the hill to explore.

Best Way To Get To Crete

When traveling to Greece’s largest island you have a few options. There are 2 major airports on the island. Heraklion and Chania. The major port is in Heraklion , but other ferry ports around the island exist including Chania.

If you are traveling to Crete after exploring Athens, you can take the overnight ferry to Crete , which is the best way since the ride is around 8 hours.

When I visited Crete I found it more convenient to fly , though the ferry is fun.

Best Areas to Stay in Crete

Where to stay in Crete will depend solely on the type of vacation you are after.

If you are looking to spend a romantic holiday with your partner that would look different than going with a bunch of friends to have a good time.

Since Crete is the biggest Greek Island , you should research where to stay in full.

Read Next: Best Areas to Stay in Crete

Here is a map and mini breakdown of 4 major regions of Crete:

Heraklion (Iraklio):

• Location : Central-eastern part of Crete .
• Key Features : Home to the island’s capital city, also named Heraklion, which is the largest city in Crete. The region is famous for the Palace of Knossos , an important Minoan archaeological site, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , which houses many artifacts from Knossos and other Minoan ruins.
• Tourist Attractions : Heraklion offers a blend of urban and historic attractions, with bustling city life, historical sites, and beautiful beaches like Amoudara.
• Where to Stay : City Lion by Semavi , Casa Al Mare Sea View Heraklion City Center

Chania (Hania):

• Location : Northwestern Crete .
• Key Features : Known for its charming old town with Venetian-era buildings, narrow streets, and a picturesque harbor. The region has a diverse landscape, including the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), Samaria Gorge , and beautiful beaches like Balos and Elafonissi .
• Tourist Attractions : Chania’s old town and harbor, exotic beaches, and hiking opportunities in the gorges and mountains make it a popular destination.
• Where to Stay: Cretan Berry Kondylaki , Nais Apartments & Studios

Rethymno (Rethymnon):

• Location : Central-western Crete .
• Key Features : Characterized by its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and the Fortezza, a large fortress overlooking the city. Rethymno’s old town is a mix of Ottoman and Venetian influences, and the region boasts long sandy beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The old town of Rethymno , the Fortezza, and beaches like Preveli with its unique palm forest are highlights.
• Where to Stay: Kapsaliana Village Hotel , SAVUS Boutique Hotel
• Location : Eastern Crete .
• Key Features : Known for its quieter, less developed atmosphere compared to the other regions. It is famous for the palm beach of Vai, which has one of Europe’s largest natural palm forests, and the Dikteon Cave believed to be the birthplace of Zeus according to Greek mythology.
• Tourist Attractions : Lasithi offers a more relaxed and natural setting, with attractions such as the Lasithi Plateau, traditional villages, and archaeological sites.
• Where to Stay: Aelia Suites , Enorme Santanna Beach

Greek Island Hopping Routes From Crete

As I mentioned before, the major port is in Heraklion , so to easily hop to another island you will have the most options from Heraklion.

Crete – Santorini – Ios – Naxos – Mykonos:

• Crete : 4 nights.
• Santorini : 3 nights.
• Ios : 2 nights.
• Naxos : 3 nights.
• Mykonos : 2 nights.

The Cyclades Islands (Most Famous Greek Islands)

The Cyclades is an island group home to the most famous Greek Islands, Santorini and Mykonos. Both are worth visiting , but not in the high season for July and August.

Depending on when you visit, Mykonos can be extremely expensive , same with Santorini, and both are largely overcrowded.

While I understand the allure of visiting these islands, I would highly recommend visiting on a day trip and staying on a more affordable nearby island.

List of the Cyclades Islands – Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea (Tzia), Kythnos, Milos , Mykonos , Naxos , Paros, Santorini (Thira), Serifos, Sifnos , Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, Folegandros.

Best Way To Get To The Cyclades

Several of the most popular islands in the Cyclades have airports, such as Naxos, Mykonos, Milos, and Santorini.

The smaller islands like Sifnos and Folegandros do not have an airport.

Depending on your travel plans you could fly into one of these islands and ferry your way around, eventually to Athens if you desire.

It will depend on how many days you have to explore altogether. I recommend 2 nights per island minimum for small islands and 4 nights minimum for larger islands.

The Milos to Athens ferry line is very convenient stopping at Milos, Sifnos, and Serifos.

Expert Tip: Rent a car in Milos . I made the mistake of not having a car and nearly went bankrupt using taxis that were hard to find.

Choosing The Best Island in The Cyclades

Santorini (thira):.

• Key Features : Famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed houses with blue domes, and dramatic caldera views. It’s a popular destination for honeymooners and tourists.
• Tourist Attractions : The towns of Oia and Fira, the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, and the unique black sand beaches.
• Where to Stay : Santorini Sky, Luxury Resort , Voreina Gallery Suites

• Key Features : Known for its exciting nightlife, white-washed villages, luxurious resorts, and iconic windmills. It’s a cosmopolitan island popular with the celebrity crowd.
• Tourist Attractions : The picturesque Mykonos Town , beautiful beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise, and the nearby island of Delos , an important archaeological site.
• Where to Stay: Alissachni Mykonos , Tropicana Hotel, Suites & Villas Mykonos

Read Next: Is Mykonos REALLY that expensive?

• Key Features : The largest island in the Cyclades, known for its impressive mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and long sandy beaches. When visiting Naxos I recommend renting a car to see the whole island.
• Tourist Attractions : The Portara (an ancient marble gateway), traditional villages, and the Temple of Demeter .
• Where to Stay: Naxian Althea , Anapollo Boutique Hotel Adults Only

Read Next: Best Bus Tour in Naxos

• Key Features : Famous for its traditional villages, beautiful beaches, and active windsurfing community.
• Tourist Attractions : The port town of Parikia, the charming village of Naoussa, and the Panagia Ekatontapiliani church .
• Where to Stay: PAREA Paros – Adults Only , Kymo Luxury Suites Paros

• Key Features : Known for its volcanic landscape and unique beaches. The island is where the famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered.
• Tourist Attractions : The picturesque fishing village of Klima, the catacombs, and beaches like Sarakiniko and Tsigrado.
• Where to Stay: Artemis Seaside Resort , Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel

Read Next: 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Milos

• Key Features : The administrative center of the Cyclades, is known for its blend of medieval and neoclassical architecture, especially in the capital, Ermoupoli.
• Tourist Attractions : The Apollo Theater , Ermoupoli’s town square, and Vaporia district.
• Where to Stay: SYROS SOUL LUXURY SUITES , Shapes Luxury Suites
• Key Features : A pilgrimage site for Greek Orthodox Christians, known for its Church of the Annunciation and traditional villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The church and its icon believed to perform miracles, the marble craft villages, and the sculptors’ workshops.
• Where to Stay: Avissalou Apartments , La Vista TINOS
• Key Features : A less touristy island with lush landscapes, numerous springs, and a rich maritime history.
• Tourist Attractions : The Museum of Contemporary Art Andros , the capital Chora with its medieval castle, and beautiful beaches.
• Where to Stay: Blue Bay Resort Village , Krinos Suites Andros

• Key Features : Known for its pottery, incredible restaurants , culinary tradition, and charming villages. You’ll love all the unique areas to stay in Sifnos.
• Tourist Attractions : The picturesque village of Kastro, the church of Seven Martyrs , and traditional pottery workshops. Check out local restaurants such as Omega3 and Cantina.
• Where to Stay: Nival Boutique Hotel , Apsila Pool Suites

Read Next: Guide to Sifnos, Greece

• Key Features : Popular among young tourists, known for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The tomb of Homer , the main village of Chora, and beaches like Mylopotas and Manganari.
• Where to Stay: White Loft , Liostasi
• Key Features : A more remote and tranquil island, known for its dramatic cliffs and the impressive Monastery of Hozoviotissa .
• Tourist Attractions : The monastery, the shipwreck from the film “The Big Blue,” and traditional villages.
• Where to Stay: Pension The Big Blue , Amorgion Hotel

• Key Features: Serifos is a less crowded, peaceful island, famous for its rugged landscape and charming hilltop capital, Chora.
• Tourist Attractions: The striking white-washed village of Chora and its windmills, hiking, and beautiful beaches.
• Where to Stay: Rizes Hotel , Coco-Mat Eco Residences Serifos

Folegandros:

• Key Features : A small, serene island with traditional Cycladic architecture and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Tourist Attractions : The cliffside Chora, Church of Panagia, and secluded beaches.
• Where to Stay: Blue Sand Boutique Hotel & Suites , Polikandia Hotel

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Cyclades

When planning a Greek Island hopping itinerary route in the Cyclades an easy route is to start from Athen Pireaus Port .

Mykonos – Paros – Naxos – Santorini:

• Mykonos : 2 nights
• Paros : 2 nights
• Naxos : 3 nights
• Santorini : 3 nights

Santorini – Amorgos – Naxos:

• Amorgos : 2 nights
• Naxos : 2 nights

Syros – Mykonos – Milos – Sifnos – Serifos

• Syros : 2 nights
• Milos : 3 nights
• Sifnos : 2 nights
• Serifos : 1 night

Saronic Gulf Islands (Closest Islands to Athens)

If you are visiting Greece on a short trip and want to easily combine a visit to Athens as well as the Greek Islands, you want to visit the Saronic Islands !

Of all of the Saronic Islands, I can highly recommend going to Hydra for the day!

These islands include Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, and Dokos. The most popular, and arguably the best, is Hydra.

Hydra is one of the most popular Greek Islands close to Athens. No cars are allowed on the island which I loved.

You will see the locals using donkeys to transport their goods and sometimes themselves to travel from one place to another.

Best Way To Get To The Saronic Gulf

The only way to get to these tiny islands in the Saronic Gulf is by ferry. A popular route is by taking the ferry from Athens to Hydra . Depending on the ferry company, your route may include a stop at Aegina.

One fun way to see three islands in one day from Athens is to book a tour! The full-day tour leaving from Athens leaves early morning and takes you to all 3 islands with short stops for a couple of hours at each.

If you are short on time it’s a terrific way to see the Greek Islands .

Choosing the Best Islands in The Saronic Gulf

• Key Features : Famous for its pistachio orchards, Aegina is a popular destination for day trips from Athens . It has a rich history, evident in its ancient ruins.
• Tourist Attractions : The Temple of Aphaia , one of the most important Doric temples in Greece, the picturesque town of Aegina, and the church of Saint Nectarios.
• Where to Stay: The Beachhouse Apartments , Cruise on Land

• Key Features : Known for its well-preserved architecture, absence of motor vehicles, and art scene. The island has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and is a favorite among artists and celebrities.
• Tourist Attractions : Hydra’s port town with its stone mansions, art galleries, and the historic monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
• Where to Stay: FOS Hydra Residence , Villa Maria- Hydra Dream House

Read Next: Athens to Hydra Ferry

• Key Features : A small, lush island separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow waterway. It’s known for its scenic beauty, historic clock tower, and serene beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The Sanctuary of Poseidon , the picturesque Poros Town, and beautiful beaches like Love Bay.
• Where to Stay: Dimitra Boutique Hotel , Sea view house on Poros
• Key Features : This island has a rich nautical history and is famous for its significant role in the Greek War of Independence. It’s known for its elegant mansions and car-free policy .
• Tourist Attractions : The Museum of Bouboulina , the old harbor, and the annual Armata Festival, which commemorates a naval battle during the War of Independence.
• Where to Stay: Villa Kalomira , Armata Boutique Hotel
• Key Features : A small, pine-covered island known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. It’s less crowded compared to its neighbors, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
• Tourist Attractions : Quiet beaches like Skala and Aponisos, and the opportunity for hiking and biking in a serene environment.
• Where to Stay: Oasis Beach Hotel , Koukounari Apartments
• Key Features : The largest island in the Saronic Gulf, Salamis is historically significant as the site of the famous naval battle in 480 BC. It’s a residential and holiday spot with a mix of sandy beaches and pine forests.
• Tourist Attractions : The Cave of Euripides , where the famous playwright is said to have written some of his plays, and the Monastery of Faneromeni.
• Where to Stay: Salamina’s Apartments
• Key Features : A small, mostly uninhabited island between Hydra and the Peloponnese, known for its archaeological significance, particularly for underwater archaeology.
• Tourist Attractions : The island is mainly a destination for yachting and anchoring in its protected bays, offering a secluded and natural environment.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes-The Saronic Gulf

A great Island hopping itinerary includes a 3 day stay in Hydra with a day trip to and then 2 nights in Aegina.

The Dodecanese Islands (Most Southern Islands)

The island group that is the most southern closest to Turkey is the Dodecanese group of islands. Here you will find that Rhodes is the largest Greek island.

Other islands in this group include Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo, Kos, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos, and Chalki.

Best Way to Get to The Dodecanese Islands

If your first destination is an island in the Dodecanese, the most logical way to get there is to fly. Unless you want to burn a lot of time on ferries.

I recommend flying into Rhodes and beginning your ferry-hopping journey from there.

Other Dodecanese islands that have airports are Kos, Karpthos, Leros, Kalymnos, Kastellorizo, and Astypalaia. Rhodes and Kos likely have the most daily flights .

An easy day trip from Rhodes is by taking the Rhodes to Symi Ferry or a fast boat.

Choosing the Best of The Dodecanese Islands

• Key Features : The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is famous for its ancient ruins, medieval Old Town, and beaches. It’s a blend of historical sites and a bustling tourist resort. When visiting Rhodes, it is ideal to rent a car .
• Tourist Attractions : The medieval Old Town of Rhodes , the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Acropolis of Lindos .
• Where to Stay: Sperveri Boutique Hotel , Evdokia Hotel

Read Next: Rhodes to Symi Island on a Fast Boat

• Key Features : Known for its sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and the Asklepion, an ancient healing center. Kos is the birthplace of Hippocrates , the father of medicine.
• Tourist Attractions : The Asklepion, the Castle of the Knights, and the ancient Agora.
• Where to Stay: Maritina Hotel , OKU Kos
• Key Features : A significant Christian pilgrimage site, Patmos is where St. John is said to have written the Book of Revelation . It has a fortified monastery and a charming old town.
• Tourist Attractions : The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse.
• Where to Stay: 9 Muses Exclusive Apartments , En Patmo Holiday Home
• Key Features : Known for preserving traditional customs and dress, Karpathos offers dramatic landscapes, with rugged mountains and pristine beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The villages of Olympos and Diafani, known for their traditional architecture and customs, and beautiful beaches like Apella.
• Where to Stay: Alisachni Villas , Aeolia Suites
• Key Features : Leros has a relaxed atmosphere with a rich naval history. It features a blend of architectural styles and has a scenic indented coastline.
• Tourist Attractions : The Castle of Leros , the War Museum, and the scenic port of Agia Marina.
• Where to Stay: Alidian Bay Suites Leros
• Key Features : Best known for its sponge diving heritage, Kalymnos is also a world-renowned destination for rock climbing.
• Tourist Attractions : The Sponge Divers Museum in Pothia, climbing spots, and beautiful beaches like Masouri.
• Where to Stay: Petra Boutique Villas , Petra Boutique Homes

Astypalaia:

• Key Features : Astypalaia, shaped like a butterfly, is known for its Venetian castle, traditional white windmills, and tranquil beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The Venetian Castle, Chora with its windmills, and the beaches of Livadi and Vatses.
• Where to Stay: 5 Traditional Suites
• Key Features : A volcanic island famous for its still-active volcano and lunar-like craters. Nisyros offers a unique landscape and tranquil villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The volcano and its accessible crater, the traditional village of Mandraki, and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani .
• Key Features : A small and serene island known for its unspoiled nature, wildlife, and medieval ruins.
• Tourist Attractions : The abandoned medieval village of Mikro Chorio, the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon , and tranquil beaches.
• Where to Stay: Uno Apartment 1st Floor

• Key Features : Famous for its neoclassical architecture with colorful houses, Symi is a picturesque and charming island.
• Tourist Attractions : The port of Gialos, the Monastery of Panormitis , and the scenic bay of Pedi.
• Where to Stay: Odyssia

Kastellorizo (Megisti):

• Key Features : The easternmost Greek island, is known for its rich history, colorful houses, and crystal-clear waters.
• Tourist Attractions : The Blue Cave, the Castle of the Knights, and the Archaeological Museum.
• Key Features : A less-visited island with a strong maritime tradition, Kasos is known for its traditional music and customs.
• Tourist Attractions : The traditional villages, the Church of Agios Spiridon , and the maritime museum.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Dodecanese Islands

Kos – nisyros – tilos – rhodes:.

• Kos : 2 nights.
• Nisyros : 1 night.
• Tilos : 2 nights.
• Rhodes : 3 nights.

Patmos – Leros – Kalymnos – Kos:

• Patmos : 2 nights.
• Leros : 1 night.
• Kalymnos : 2 nights.

The Ionian Greek Islands (The Seven Islands)

The Ionian Greek island group has been referred to as the  Heptanese , which means “Seven Islands”.

These Islands are located in the Ionian Sea on the Eastern side of Greece closer to Italy and Albania.

Best Way To Get To The Ionian Islands

From Athens, the easiest way to get to the Ionian Islands is to fly. Ferries leaving out of Port of Piraeus don’t have a direct link that go there .

In the Ionian Islands, several have international airports which facilitate both domestic and international travel. Corfu, known as Kerkyra in Greek, is served by the Corfu International Airport , also referred to as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport .

This airport is well-equipped for international flights, making Corfu a convenient destination for travelers from abroad.

Kefalonia, or Cephalonia, also hosts an international airport, known as Kefalonia International Airport or Anna Pollatou Airport. This facility connects the island with various international locations.

Similarly, Zakynthos, or Zante, has an international airport named Zakynthos International Airport, also known as Dionysios Solomos Airport, which caters to international passengers, particularly during the tourist season.

Lefkada, or Lefkas, does not have its own airport; however, it is conveniently served by the nearby Aktion National Airport located on the mainland near Preveza.

This airport, which handles international flights, is within a short driving distance from Lefkada, making it relatively easy for visitors to reach the island.

Choosing the Best of The Ionian Islands

Corfu (kerkyra):.

• Key Features : Known for its lush greenery, Venetian-style architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Corfu has a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a blend of Greek, Venetian, French, and British influences.
• Tourist Attractions : The Old Town of Corfu (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Achilleion Palace, the Venetian Fort, and the Paleokastritsa Monastery .
• Where to Stay: Archontiko Petrettini Boutique Hotel

Kefalonia (Cephalonia):

• Key Features : Kefalonia is famous for its beaches & dramatic landscapes, including mountains, caves, and stunning beaches. The island gained fame through the novel and movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.”
• Tourist Attractions : The Melissani Cave , Myrtos Beach, and the picturesque village of Fiscardo.
• If you are looking for Where to Stay in Kefalonia I would suggest as close to ARGOSTOLI.

Zakynthos (Zante):

• Key Features : Known for its swinging nightlife and beautiful beaches, including the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) , one of Greece’s most famous photographic spots.
• Tourist Attractions : Navagio Beach, the Blue Caves, and the endangered loggerhead sea turtles in Laganas Bay.
• Where to Stay: Tsamis Zante Suites

Lefkada (Lefkas):

• Key Features : Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Lefkada is known for its impressive beaches with turquoise waters and its charming mountain villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni, and the windsurfing center at Vassiliki.
• Where to Stay: KN Ionian Suites

Ithaca (Ithaki):

• Key Features : The Greek Island of Ithaca is famed as the homeland of Odysseus in Homer’s epic, Ithaca is a tranquil island with lush landscapes and quaint villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The Cave of the Nymphs , the ruins of the ancient city of Alalcomenae , and the picturesque village of Kioni .

Paxos (Paxi) :

• Key Features : A small and unspoiled island, Paxos is known for its olive groves, crystal-clear waters, and pebble beaches. It has a peaceful and exclusive atmosphere.
• Tourist Attractions : The Blue Caves, the charming port villages of Gaios, Lakka, and Loggos.

Kythira (Cythera):

• Key Features : Although geographically closer to the Peloponnese, Kythira is culturally and administratively part of the Ionian Islands. It’s known for its wild beauty, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The Venetian castle of Chora, the picturesque village of Avlemonas, and the Mylopotamos waterfalls.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Ionian Islands

Corfu – paxos – lefkada:.

• Corfu: 3 nights
• Paxos: 2 nights
• Lefkada: 3 nights

Kefalonia – Ithaca – Zakynthos:

• Kefalonia: 3 nights
• Ithaca: 2 nights
• Zakynthos: 3 nights

The Northern Aegean Islands

The Northern Aegean Islands, a beautiful group of islands, are located in the northeastern Aegean Sea, between Turkey and Greece.

These islands are known for their interesting history, varied landscapes, and unique culture.

They are less visited than other more popular Greek islands, which makes them a quieter but still very charming place to visit.

Best Way To Get To The Northern Aegean Islands

Reaching the Northern Aegean Islands typically involves a combination of air and sea travel, depending on your starting point.

From Athens, the most efficient way to reach these islands is usually by flying.

Lesbos, Chios, Samos, and Ikaria have airports with domestic connections to Athens and, in some cases, direct international flights, particularly during the tourist season.

Lesbos is served by Mytilene International Airport “Odysseas Elytis,” offering both domestic and international flights.

Chios Island National Airport “Omiros” and Samos International Airport “Aristarchos of Samos” also connect these islands to various destinations.

For Ikaria, the Ikaria Island National Airport caters mostly to domestic flights but may have some international charters.

Alternatively, ferry services from the mainland and other Greek islands provide a scenic route to the Northern Aegean Islands.

These ferries frequently depart from ports such as Piraeus in Athens, offering a more leisurely but equally enjoyable journey to these storied isles.

Whether by air or sea, the journey to the Northern Aegean Islands promises a gateway to an array of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and enjoying unspoiled natural beauty to immersing oneself in the rich cultural traditions of this distinctive Greek island group.

Choosing the Best Northern Aegean Island

Lesbos (mytilene):.

• Key Features : Lesbos, also known by the name of its capital, Mytilene, is the third-largest Greek island. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Petrified Forest, and production of ouzo, a famous Greek liquor.
• Tourist Attractions : The Petrified Forest , a UNESCO Global Geopark ; the historic Castle of Mytilene; and beautiful beach towns like Molyvos and Skala Eressou.
• Where to Stay: Luxury Apartment with balcony, The Beehive

• Key Features : Famous for its medieval villages and mastic production, Chios has a unique identity. The island is dotted with distinctive stone houses and has a rich medieval history.
• Tourist Attractions : The Nea Moni , an 11th-century monastery and UNESCO World Heritage site; the mastic villages like Pyrgi and Mesta; and beautiful beaches such as Vroulidia and Mavra Volia.
• Where to Stay: Ostria Seaside Studios and Apartments, Almiriki Hotel
• Key Features : Known for its wine production and rich ancient history, Samos is an island with lush greenery, mountainous landscapes, and significant archaeological sites.
• Tourist Attractions : The Temple of Hera , a UNESCO World Heritage site; the Tunnel of Eupalinos, an ancient engineering marvel; and beaches like Tsamadou and Kokkari.
• Where to Stay: SeaView Apartment & Studios, Casa Cook Samos – Adults only
• Key Features : Famous for its longevity among inhabitants, Ikaria is a mountainous island with a relaxed pace of life. It’s known for its thermal springs and wild, untamed nature.
• Tourist Attractions : The Radioactive Thermal Springs of Ikaria, the scenic village of Armenistis, and the Seychelles beach.
• Where to Stay: Archipelagos Hotel, Patras Apartments

Limnos (Lemnos):

• Key Features : An island with volcanic origins, Limnos offers vast sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and a tranquil environment. It’s known for its traditional villages and local wine.
• Tourist Attractions : The ancient city of Hephaestia, the Castle of Myrina , and the unique landscapes of the Aliki wetland.
• Where to Stay: Arxontiko Hotel, Grand Patelli

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Northern Aegean Islands

Lesbos – chios – samos:.

• Lesbos: 3 nights
• Chios: 2 nights
• Samos: 3 nights

Thassos – Lemnos – Samothraki:

• Thassos: 3 nights
• Lemnos: 2 nights
• Samothraki: 2 nights

The Sporades Island Group

The Sporades Islands, an enchanting archipelago, are nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, off the coast of mainland Greece.

This cluster of islands is celebrated for insane greenery, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

They offer a more tranquil and unspoiled alternative to the busier Greek islands, providing an idyllic retreat for those seeking a serene yet captivating Greek island experience.

The Best Way to Get The Sporades Islands

The most common entry point to visit Sporades is via the city of Volos on the Greek mainland , which is well-connected by road and rail to major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

From Volos, you have the option to take a ferry or a high-speed catamaran to reach the islands.

The ferry service is more frequent during the summer months, catering to both passengers and vehicles.

Skiathos, the closest and most popular among the Sporades , serves as a gateway to the other islands in the archipelago, including Skopelos and Alonissos.

Alternatively, for those seeking a quicker route, Skiathos also has an airport that accommodates domestic flights, primarily from Athens.

The flight from Athens to Skiathos is short , taking about 30 to 45 minutes, and from there, visitors can easily hop onto a ferry to explore the neighboring islands.

Choosing the Best Sporades Island

• Key Features: Skiathos, the most accessible of the Sporades islands, is known for its nightlife and stunning beaches. It boasts over 60 sandy beaches, including the famous Koukounaries , and has a bustling town filled with charming shops and restaurants.
• Tourist Attractions: The Lalaria Beach , accessible only by boat, with its striking blue waters; the medieval ruins of Kastro; and the Skiathos Town with its lively harborside and nightlife.
• Where to Stay: Skopelos Village Hotel
• Key Features: Skopelos is celebrated for its lush green landscapes, traditional architecture, and being a filming location for the movie “Mamma Mia!” It’s a quieter, more authentic experience compared to Skiathos, with beautiful monasteries and churches.
• Tourist Attractions: The iconic cliffside Agios Ioannis Chapel , made famous by “ Mamma Mia !” ; the scenic Skopelos Town with its winding streets and charming buildings; and serene beaches like Stafilos and Panormos.
• Where to Stay: ELIVI Skiathos
• Key Features: Known for its natural beauty and marine park, Alonissos is the most remote of the inhabited Sporades islands. It’s a haven for nature lovers, with rich biodiversity both on land and in the surrounding waters.
• Tourist Attractions: The National Marine Park of Alonissos , a protected area offering superb opportunities for snorkeling and seeing marine life; the charming Old Town of Alonissos ; and secluded beaches like Chrisi Milia and Agios Dimitrios.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Sporades

Skiathos- skopelos-alonissos.

• Skiathos: 2 Nights
• Skopelos: 2 Nights
• Alonissos: 2 Nights

Greek Island Cheatsheet

If you’re familiar with the unique vibes of Greek islands and seeking the perfect one to match your interests, here’s a guide to some of the most common island themes:

Best Greek Islands for a Party

If you are looking for the Greek Islands known for a good time check out:

Best Greek Islands for Families

Traveling to the Greek Islands with the whole family? You want to check out these islands:

• Serifos, Greece

Best Greek Islands for Solo Travelers

When going to the Greek Islands alone you should consider these to be ideal:

Best Greek Islands for Foodies

Fancier yourself a foodie? These Greek Islands are KNOWN for their incredible cuisine:

Read Next: Best Greek Islands for Food Lovers

Which Greek Island Should You Visit? Take The Quiz!

Still not sure where to go? Take the quiz and find out what Greek Island is right for you based on your personality!

Ready to Explore

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

Getty Images

Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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E verything you need from a guide to the Greek islands. How many Greek islands are there? More than 6,000 but only a couple of hundred are inhabited.

What are the best Greek islands to visit in the winter?

Islands in the south of Greece for better weather and with a large permanent population for easy accessibility.

Is April a good time to visit the Greek islands?

Yes, April is a great time to visit the Greek islands. The best weather is in the southern Aegean like Crete, Kos, Karpathos and Rhodes. There are less crowds but more Greek tourists due to the Easter celebrations.

The number of inhabited Greek islands varies between 150ish to 220ish depending on what size you consider an island to be. While all of them are stunning, some of them will fit your style of travelling more than others.

This guide was created to help you pick which of the Greek islands most suits your preferences, so let’s begin. We suggest grabbing a pen and paper to note down the islands that sound most like you as you go through the article.

What Complex of Greek Islands To Pick or How To Combine Them

When you begin researching what island you want to visit in Greece, the easiest way to proceed is to narrow down which complex or cluster of islands you prefer. While there is no reason you can’t combine islands from different clusters, to do so you may need to add extra dates just for travelling to and from a location, which increases the cost and cuts down on the actual holiday time. There are 6 different complexes of Greek islands and some that belong to no category.

1. Eptanisa

The Ionian Sea is home to the first cluster which is also called Eptanisa, or 7 islands. This includes Corfu , Paxos & Antipaxos , Ithaka , Lefkada , Kefalonia and Kythira . Kythira is located under the Peloponnese Peninsula and while it is grouped together with the 7 islands it is under the administration of Athens . These islands share a lot of characteristics, like the Venetian architecture seen in houses, castles and churches, the lush greenery and turquoise waters.

2. Cyclades

The Cyclades is another complex of Greek islands which translates to circle due to the way the islands form a protective barrier around the sacred island of Delos. While the Cyclades counts more than 220 islands, only a handful are inhabited. The primary island list includes Amorgos , Anafi, Andros, Paros , Antiparos, Koufonisia , Milos , Naxos , Mykonos , Santorini or Thira, Kythnos, Kimolos , Kea, Ios, Folegandros, Serifos, Sithnos, Sikinos, Syros, and Tinos.

The Cyclades are famous for their distinctive architecture, the whitewashed cube shaped houses that are built close to each other usually at a high point for protection against intruders and the windmills which once were used to mill grains but now are mostly a tourist attraction.

3. Dodecanese

The Dodecanese complex of islands is another number-name, but while it translates to “twelve islands” there are fifteen major islands of the more than 100 in the area, that are included in the list. The location of the islands is between the Cyclades and the coast of Turkey. The largest of all the islands is Rhodes . There is also Symi, Tilos, Astypalaia , Kalymnos, Karpathos , Kasos, Kos, Leros, Nisyros, and Patmos. As well as the smaller Kastellorizo, Lipsi, Halki and Agathonisi. As the largest and most popular island, Rhodes is a good option to fly into and then set out to explore the other islands if you so choose. For off season travel, options may be limited so you need to give yourself more time to reach from one island to another.

4. Northern Aegean

The Northern Aegean islands are as the name states further up the north Aegean coast. They are Thasos, Samothraki, Lemnos , Lesvos, Chios , Ikaria and Samos. As well as the much smaller Psara, Fournoi, Agios Efstratios and Oinnousses. Most of the islands in the North Aegean are bigger in size but less popular holiday destinations with the exception of Ikaria that has become a mecca for “panigyria” the Greek religious festivals where people dance until the early hours of the morning. Island hopping between these islands is not easy and ferries to these islands are often slower and travel during the night.

5. Sporades

The name of the next group of islands is Sporades meaning “scatterred”. It is often used to describe four islands located close to the east coast of mainland Greece, however, the name applies to a lot of other islands outside of the Cyclades. The four islands that are inhabited are Allonisos, Skopelos , Skiathos and Skyros. During the summer high season there are regular ferries departing from the mainland. Flights can be organized for Skiathos Airport that receives both domestic and charter flights from some European countries. A much smaller airport operates in Skyros island that is located a fair distance away from the other three. You can only find domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki here.

6. Saronic Gulf

The Saronic Gulf islands are the ones located closest to Athens. They are Aegina, Salamina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, Agistri, and Dokos. These islands are ideally located very close to the mainland and can be reached from Athens with high speed ferries, that often take less than 1 hour of travel. The gulf offers protection from the wind and so these islands also make ideal options for off season or winter destinations, even if the sea is not warm enough to swim in. There are plenty of day cruises leaving Piraeus port that visit Hydra, Poros and Aegina which is an ideal option if you have extra days in Athens .

7. Crete and Euboea

Two islands that don’t really fall under one category are Crete and Euboea. Crete is the largest island in Greece and it could be a separate country all together with its distinctive accent and traditional mantinades (a short of limerick with 15 syllables that locals can expertly whip up within seconds, either accompanied with music or when communicating with each other), the diverse natural scenery, with gorges, lakes, some of the best beaches in Greece and strong local flavours that make it a favourite destination for all. Euboea or Evia as is pronounced in Greek is the second largest island, however, it is seldom thought of as one, due to the two bridges that link it to the mainland.

Best Greek Islands To Visit In The Winter

Dodecanese: Rhodes

Cyclades: Mykonos, Santorini

Saronic: Hydra, Poros, Aegina, Salamina

Other: Crete, Euboea

Greece has long marvelous summers and sunny winters but the temperature can still plunge to freezing temperatures especially on the northern part and high altitude cities like Thessaloniki and Kastoria . While less common, we have seen plenty of Greek islands and beaches covered with a dusting of snow throughout recent years.

That is because you are more likely to find restaurants and attractions open, there is a lower chance to be stuck on the island due to rough seas (if you were taking a ferry) and there is a large medical center in case of accidents.

• Tip: The best Greek islands then to visit in winter would be the one’s that have an airport, are considerably big and that have a steady amount of permanent residents throughout the year.

Best Greek Islands To Visit In April or May

Dodecanese: Rhodes, Kos, Karpathos, Patmos, Kalymnos

Cyclades: Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Tinos, Milos, Syros, Sifnos, Folegandros

Eptanisa: Corfu

Other: Crete

The months of April and May are when spring starts to make its presence known. The temperature is mostly mellow and ideal for outdoor activities and excursions and there is a lesser chance of a crowd wherever you go. They also tend to be some of the cheapest months to travel in! In addition, travelling to Greece in April is special due to the number of festivities and events that surround Easter. The island of Chios hosts the Easter Rocket Wars, where two churches compete for the most impressive fireworks of the night. Mykonos and Santorini lack the summer crowds so you are more likely to run into locals and see the everyday rhythm of Greek people. While most Greeks don’t venture into the sea until June, plenty of visitors will find the waters pleasant and refreshing.

• Tip: The dates for Orthodox Easter change slightly every year so plan ahead if you want to combine your trip with some cultural experiences.

Best Greek Islands To Visit In September or October

Saronic: All of them

Cyclades: Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Syros

Eptanisa: Corfu, Kefalonia

• Tip: If you wish to combine multiple islands on your visit to Greece in September or October make sure to pay close attention to ferry schedules since a lot of the routes are cut down substantially.

Best Greek Islands To Visit Close To Athens

Other: Euboea

The Saronic islands are the best option for visitors that can’t venture too far away from Athens. Whether you are short on time or just prefer to spend more of your holiday at the beach rather than on a plane or boat, the Saronic Gulf islands offer glamour, tradition, aesthetics and unique experiences that are sure to captivate you. An island-hopping tour can also be a good option to see more islands within a short period of time, like the popular Aegina, Poros and Hydra tours. However, fast ferries departing from Piraeus port, can also take you to the ever popular Mykonos and Santorini. SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries offer the fastest option from Piraeus to Santorini, that take approximately 5 hours. The slower and less bumpy ride for those prone to sea sickness takes approximately 8 hours. There are usually more than 3 ferries leaving Piraeus towards Mykonos during the summer and at least 1 during the winter.

Euboea, the second largest island that you can reach by car, is only one hour from Athens and has incredible beaches, fantastic fish taverns and a rich history. Due to its size it may not feel like an island but you should dedicate at least 3 days to exploring this area.

• Tip: The port of Rafina is another excellent option for those travelling to Mykonos.

Best Greek Islands To Visit For Nature Lovers

Dodecanese: Nisyros, Rhodes, Kalymnos

Eptanisa: Corfu, Cephalonia, Lefkada, Kithyra

Cyclades: Andros, Sifnos, Tilos, Milos

Other: Euboea, Crete

Sporades: Skyros, Allonisos

Northern Aegean: Samothraki, Chios

• Tip: If you want to explore nature consider travelling outside of July or August because the temperature can reach more than 40 Celsius making it uncomfortable and even dangerous to be under the sun the whole day.

11 Smallest Greek Islands To Visit

Dodecanese: Patmos, Nisyros, Kastelorizo, Halki, Lipsi

Eptanisa: Paxos Antipaxos

Cyclades: Koufonisia, Anafi, Folegandros

Saronic: Agistri

Northern Aegean: Fournoi, Psara

Visiting some of the smaller islands has both advantages and disadvantages. Almost all of the smaller islands lack airports and as such you will need to travel to a bigger island and then catch a ferry or else take a longer journey on the ferry from Piraeus. Some may take more than 15hours but they almost always travel over night and you can book a cabin. However, once you get there, smaller islands will reward you with their lack of tourists and authentic representation of life. You may be able to witness customs and traditions that you wouldn’t be exposed to elsewhere and taste local flavours that are truly homemade.

• Tip: If you have booked an international flight from Athens airport always plan to be back in the capital a few days in advance to avoid delays or strikes on the smaller island ferries.

11 Biggest Greek Islands To Visit

Eptanisa: Zakynthos, Cephalonia, Corfu

Cyclades: Naxos

Northern Aegean: Lesvos, Chios, Lemnos, Samos

The biggest island by far is Crete island. It is twice as big as the second largest island Euboia. Most of the other big islands can be found in the Ionian Sea. If you want to travel to one of the bigger islands of Greece you will be rewarded with more options for accomodation and activities and most of the times a smoother and more comprehensive infastructure for tourism compared to the tiny Greek islands. Most of the islands with a static population all-year-around will have a medical centre, but if you have specific health problems, it pays to inquire ahead of time.

• Tip: The biggest of the Greek islands like Crete and Euboia will certainly require for you to have a car. So, plan for that within your budget.

7 Most Popular Greek Islands To Visit

Cyclades: Mykonos, Santorini, Milos

Eptanisa: Zakynthos, Corfu

What suits one traveller will not suit another, so don’t rely only on the Greek islands that first come to mind. While undoubtedly beautiful and amazing destinations that we would always recommend, the most famous islands of Greece tend to get a bit overcrowded. If your heart is set on one of these islands and you are not a fan of crowds try to plan for late spring or early autumn. Your wallet will also thank you. The sweet-smelling Mykonian nights through cobblestoned labyrinths and stupendous sunsets of Santorini, will be there waiting for you!

• Tip: Because Crete is twice as large as the second largest island, Euboia, it is possible to visit in peak season and still find quiet beaches. To do that, head out of Chania and Rethymno and choose smaller towns on the east side of the island.

Greek Islands That Have Airports

Dodecanese: Rhodes, Kos, Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Leros

Cyclades: Mykonos, Santorini, Milos, Paros, Naxos, Syros[

Sporades: Skyros, Skiathos

Northern Aegean: Samos, Lemnos, Lesvos, Chios, Ikaria

Eptanisa: Zakynthos, Corfu, Cephalonia, Kythira

All of the “biggest islands” you can find in the above section have airports. The bigger islands will also have more frequent routes, especially during the off season, and you can often find good deals. In comparison, the smaller and less popular islands have charter flights that may only operate during the busiest months and even then come with a hefty price tag. There is always one airport per complex of islands, however, with the exception of the Saronic Gulf islands. These islands are served by Athens International Airport and Piraeus port, from which they are only a couple of hours or less away.

• Disclaimer: Due to tourism and changes in the economy of Greece, information in this section may change. If you have information regarding an airport in the Greek islands or have spotted a mistake please contact us so we can make the necessary amendments.

Best Greek Islands For Party Lovers

Sporades: Skiathos

Cyclades: Mykonos, Ios, Paros

Eptanisa: Zakynthos

Some of the Greek islands feature prominently on the radar of party lovers! Mykonos and Crete in particular have long been favourites for people that prefer to sleep during the day and party all night. Every island attracts a different crowd as though people organically started to favour one over the other and a niche market was created. In Crete you will find all-inclusive resorts that are a favourite package holiday for Brits in the summer. Mykonos was once called the Ibiza of the Aegean but now has achieved a spot of its own on the throne of nightlife entertainment and is LGBTQ+ friendly. Skiathos and Paros is where a lot of Greek students have their first away from home adventures.

• Tip: Even the above mentioned “party-islands” have a lot to offer for people that do not enjoy all-night outings. Try to stay away from the “Chora” or main village of the island or visit during the off season.

Best Greek Islands For Families

Sporades: Skyros

Dodecanese: Symi, Kos, Rhodes

Cyclades: Naxos, Sifnos, Syros, Andros, Paros

Other: Crete, Euboia

Eptanisa: All of them

For family friendly Greek island destinations location might be the biggest determining factor depending on how many kids or families are travelling, their ages and for how long. The biggest islands on the list like Rhodes, Crete, Cephalonia, Corfu and Lefkada (in the Eptanisa) have more options for family resorts and are better connected with flights. If you don’t want to spend more than a couple of hours in a ferry to reach an island and would rather fly, then the list above is a very good starting point. The complex of Eptanisa is another ideal choice, with lots of green and shade, adequate size to offer options for all and great accomodation options and well connected to the rest of Greece.

• Tip: Kythira island is technically part of the Eptanisa complex but you will find it under the Peloponnese peninsula away from the Ionian Sea. You can read more about family travel in Kythira here .

Best Greek Islands For Couples & Romantic Holidays

Dodecanese: Symi, Astypalaia

Cyclades: Santorini, Naxos, Milos, Amorgos, Folegandros, Mykonos, Koufonisia, Paros,

Saronic: Aegina,Hydra, Spetses

Eptanisa: Paxos Antipaxos, Corfu

Most destinations can become romantic if you visit them with the person that makes your heart flutter! Even so, some places seem to have a bit of extra magic in the air. The way the dark purple light hits the sea and the colour palette of the architecture join together to create a veil of romance that is hard to resist. Santorini is undoubtedly one of these places; a unique destination that is ideal for couples. If you are a fan of the sugar cube houses and colourful bougainvilleas then the Cyclades are a great option. Mykonos, Santorini, Naxos and Paros will be the busiest during peak summer season so if that is something you wish to avoid Folegandros and Amorgos or Astypalaia in the Dodecanese are exceptionally beautiful spots.

• Tip: Folegandros and Amorgos are great options if you also want to see Santorini for a few days. Ferry tickets are frequent during summer and only last 1 to 3 hours depending on the vessel.

Most Expensive Greek Islands

Cyclades: Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos

Eptanisa: Cephalonia, Zakynthos, Corfu

It is hard to answer this question without knowing the travel style of each visitor. But since people tend to ask for the “most expensive Greek islands” we will try our best to answer it. The most popular and biggest islands tend to also be the most expensive. Santorini and Mykonos are definitely at the top of the list. The demand is high, supplies, food are brought in from the mainland and drinking water from the tap is not possible. One exception in regards to size are the islands of the North Aegean that see far fewer international visitors than the Cyclades or the Ionian islands.

• Tip: Popular islands may have higher costs in accomodation but are easier and cheaper to reach than others. Smaller far away islands may have no airport and require more than 12hours in a ferry to reach. You should pick whatever sounds best for you!

The Inexpensive Greek Islands

Dodecanese: Nisyros, Symi, Karpathos

Cyclades: Kythnos, Sifnos, Kea, Kimolos, Serifos, Andros,

Northern Aegean: Ikaria, Thassos, Lemnos, Lesvos, Samothrace

Eptanisa: Ithaka

Other: Euboea, Aegina

Greece is in general a very affordable destination for international visitors. Mykonos and Santorini can still be visited on a budget but if you want the most bang for your buck and are not after fine dining or luxury accomodation there are a lot of options for you. One general advice is to look at the “ Greek Islands With Airports ” list above, and remove them from your list. Smaller, harder to reach islands will be more traditional, authentic and representative of the pace and lifestyle of Greek people. Reaching these islands, however, may require more planning especially if you want to island-hop.

• Tip: In the most popular islands, locals that work in tourism work long hours from the start of the season in April till late October. If you want to meet and chat to locals try visiting smaller islands that are not dependant on tourism or come during the off-season.

Best Greek Islands For History Lovers

Dodecanese: Patmos, Kos, Rhodes

Cyclades: Naxos, Santorini, Delos

Northern Aegean: Lemnos, Chios

Eptanisa: Kythira, Corfu

Other Crete

For history lovers, Greece, in general, is full of traces of its ancient past. While most people know of the Parthenon in Athens and maybe the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, some of the Greek islands are home to imposing castles, ancient ruins and impressive monuments from different periods. Rhodes is home to the second most visited ancient site after the Acropolis in Athens. In Santorini, you can see the excavations that have been taking place at the Akrotiri peninsula that date back to the Minoan period. While in Crete, you will find the grand palace of Knossos that could very well be one of the earliest European cities.

• Tip: Delos is an island that has been uninhabited since the 7th century AD. To explore this archaeological place you need to travel from one of the neighborhing islands, like Mykonos, Naxos, Paros or Tinos.

Best Greek Islands To Visit If You Love Watersports

Dodecanese: Karpathos, Rhodes

Cyclades: Naxos, Paros, Antiparos

Northern Aegean: Lemnos

Eptanisa Lefkada

Naxos is arguably the most well known destination in Greece for windsurfing and kitesurfing. If you want to get amongst the action, the nearby Paros and Antiparos also offer ideal wind conditions and organized clubs whether you are an expert or a new fan that requires a few lessons. In the Northern Aegean, the vast Keros Beach in Lemnos is a favourite for locals and visitors. The beach is on the east coast of the island and is always windy, so if you are not planning to kite or surf, this might not be for you.

• Tip: If you want to experience the verdant landscape of the Ionian islands you should consider Lefkada. In addition to having some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece, Lefkada’s sandy Vassiliki Beach on the south coast, is the perfect spot for windsurfing enthusiasts.

Best Greek Islands To Visit If You Don’t Have a Car

Cyclades : Santorini, Anafi, Naxos, Koufonisia

Saronic : Hydra, Spetses

There are two reasons why you travel somewhere without a car. The first is that cars are strictly not allowed on the island, just like in the case of Hydra and Spetses. Alternatively you may wish to spend your holidays free of cars because you have no drivers licence or would rather skip the cost of hiring a car. If that sounds like you, the smallest islands of the list like Koufonisia, Anafi or bigger islands like Naxos that has good public transport is ideal.

• Tip: Driving in Santorini is a good option for those that want the flexibility of exploring the whole island and are not scared to share the narrow alleyways with big tour buses. By not renting a vehicle you may need to stay around certain locations like Oia or Fira, or spend a bit extra on taxis and skip the hassle of finding a parking spot.

Most Insta-Worthy Greek Islands To Visit

Cyclades: Santorini, Mykonos, Milos

Eptanisa: Kefalonia, Zakynthos

All of the Greek islands are incredibly beautiful! But it would hard to deny that some of them feature more prominently on Instagram feeds. As a result, there are certain images that have become iconic of these islands. In Mykonos, you think of the colourful houses of Little Venice getting bashed by the waves and that “alleyway” shot with the crisp white walls and Pinterest worthy cushions that look out to sea. Try to search for Santorini and we will be surprised if you don’t instantly spot a sea of blue church domes looking out at sunset light. And as far as Milos goes, the moon like reflections of the rocks around Sarakiniko beach are front and centre every time.

• Tip: One of the most famous beaches in Crete is Elafonisi with its unique pink-hued sand. The up and coming competitor is Seitan Limania. A small beach that until recently was inaccessible, now is there to reward visitors that brave the steep and windy ride.

*Disclaimer: This page includes affiliate links. If you decide to book something through one of them, I might get a little bonus, but it won't cost you anything extra.*

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Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

From choosing the right hotel to getting around, here's how to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in Greece.

Planning a trip to the Greek islands can be intimidating, even for the most seasoned travelers. With more than 200 inhabited isles (and about 6,000 islands and islets in total), the magnitude of the archipelagos is astounding. Each has its own character and aesthetic, from Cyclades islands dotted with white-and-blue houses to the lush and green Ionian Islands to the castle-lined Dodecanese.

Overall, Greece has six main island groups, plus a significant stand-alone: Crete. It's generally easiest to travel between islands within one group than to hop between archipelagos. In this guide, we'll break down the best Greek islands to visit, including what each island group is known for, and how to travel within each archipelago.

Getting Around the Greek Islands

While many of the Greek islands have airports, not all of them have international terminals. Many are serviced solely by domestic carriers like Aegean Airlines , and you can only fly from neighboring islands or Athens. However, some of the most popular islands (including Crete and Santorini) have international airports, where you can fly directly from cities in Europe or the Middle East.

Traveling by ferry simplifies island hopping, especially if you're just exploring one archipelago. In the Cyclades, Seajets is the high-speed ferry, though travelers can find all options (including less expensive ferries) via Greek Ferries . It is possible, of course, to rent a car in Athens — or on one of the islands — and drive it onto the ferry, essentially turning your island-hopping excursion into a seafaring road trip. However, it's easy to rent a car on the islands, too, provided you have an international driver's license with you.

When to Visit the Greek Isles

May, June, and late September are great times to travel if you're looking for nice weather but still hoping to avoid the crowds. The high season (mid-June to mid-September) offers more ferry routes, flight options, and open restaurants and beach bars, but it also means more tourists and higher prices. Each island group has its own weather to look into — Crete is warmest year-round, making it a great choice for late fall or winter. And while some Greek islands, such as Hydra, are full of locals and see tourists year-round, others, such as Santorini, get very quiet in the off-season (November to March). Here, we've put together an overview of each group of islands (and the highlights of each archipelago) to help you plan your next Grecian adventure.

The Cyclades Islands

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

This archipelago is the most common first stop for American travelers in Greece, with two of the most-visited islands: Mykonos and Santorini. A group of about two dozen inhabited islands (and 220 total isles), this bunch looks like all the postcards of Greece you've seen: white churches with blue domes and pink bougainvillea vines shading secluded side streets.

Mykonos is known for its nightlife and see-and-be-seen beaches, but it also has a gorgeous Cycladic village in its center, with windmills and winding lanes designed to confuse pirates centuries ago. Santorini is romantic and luxurious, beloved by honeymooners lounging in their private pools overlooking the caldera. For those looking for alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini, options abound. Up-and-coming Milos has otherworldly beaches and the famed sea caves, Tinos is the site of a famous Church of the Virgin Mary, and the rustic Lesser Cyclades (Koufonisia, Donousa, Schinoussa, and Iraklia) are great for camping. There are large islands, like Naxos and Syros, the archipelago's capital, and tiny ones with very little tourism, like Sikinos.

How to Travel the Cyclades Islands

The tourist season on the Cycladic islands runs from mid-April to mid-October (peaking in June, July, and August). If it's your first time in the area, you'll want to start by visiting Mykonos or Santorini. On Santorini, you'll find great wineries, like Venetsanos and Santo , while on Mykonos, it's the nightlife that will keep you coming back, with iconic clubs like Scorpios and Super Paradise Beach Club . When exploring some of the smaller islands, like Ios, Folegandros, and Milos, swim, snorkel, and wander the fortress-like capital of each island. The cobbled alleyways are home to shops, galleries, bars, and tavernas (on most islands the main town is called "Chora"; on Milos, it's "Plaka"). And don't miss sailing adventures around the Cycladic islands — look into companies like Polco Sailing on Milos and Sunset Oia Cruises on Santorini.

Where to Stay

On Santorini, start your trip by staying amid the iconic white-and-blue cliffside houses of Oia at Andronis Luxury Suites . Next, move along the caldera to the village of Imerovigli, where you'll find some of the most over-the-top and romantic hotels, including Andronis Concept Wellness Resort and Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection . Finally, stay a night in the old town of Pyrgos at Santorini Sky .

On Mykonos, start your vacation at The Wild Hotel by Interni , which has a luxurious boutique atmosphere and a private beach for guests. For an ideal honeymoon in Greece , spend a few exceptionally romantic nights at Kalesma Mykonos , where each suite has its own infinity-edge pool.

Elsewhere in the Cyclades, look for luxury boutique hotels (many, like The Wild and Kalesma, are family owned). Try Milos Breeze on Milos, Coco-Mat Eco Residences on Serifos, Calilo on Ios, and the Naxian Collection Luxury Villas & Suites on Naxos.

The largest Greek island (and the southernmost, roughly halfway between Europe and Africa), Crete could be its own country. Because there's so much to explore, many travelers focus their energy on the 160-mile-long island rather than straying to other archipelagos.

How to Travel on Crete

The island has two main airports, making Crete very easy to get to from Athens. Once you're on the island, it's a good idea to rent a car; it takes about six hours to drive from one end of Crete to the other.

The island boasts some of the best beaches in Greece , including Elafonissi, with its unparalleled pink sand, and Elounda, known for its five-star beach clubs. Hike the Samaria Gorge (which takes five to seven hours through streams and between cliffs), or walk through wildflowers along paths in the mountain villages. Visit the ruins of the Knossos Palace, home of the Minoan empire (and the dreaded Minotaur monster), and the Boutari Winery if you're interested in sampling Cretan wines. Finally, if you have time for a day trip, the isle of Spinalonga, off the coast of Elounda, is worth visiting for its wild beauty and tragic history — it was home to a colony of people affected by leprosy until 1957.

Where to Stay on Crete

With picturesque olive groves sloping down to sandy beaches, Elounda has become something of a Cretan Riviera. This stretch along the island's northeast coast is lined with swanky resorts including Crete's only Relais & Chateaux property, the Elounda Mare , and the contemporary Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa .

Outside the island's capital city of Heraklion is the family-friendly five-star beachfront resort Amirandes , part of the national Grecotel chain (take a detour to have dinner on their farm, Agreco ). Moving west, you'll find the well-preserved Venetian town of Rethymno, and more historic boutique hotel options like Kapsaliana Village Hotel , built around an 18th-century olive oil mill, and Casa Delfino , a renovated 17th-century mansion inside the walled old town of Chania.

Saronic Gulf Islands

The closest island group to Athens is also home to some of the most scenic, under-the-radar isles. Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, and little Agistri are popular with Greek weekenders and European visitors but are less known to Americans.

How to Travel the Saronic Gulf Islands

The Nantucket of Greece, car-free Hydra is tiny but mighty. Spetses has green pine trees, yachts parked in the harbor, and traditional horse-drawn carriages along its waterfronts. Family-friendly Poros, with tree-shaded beaches and a charming town dominated by a clock tower, is popular among sailing aficionados. Aegina, the closest island to Athens, has a large port town, sandy beaches, and the ancient Temple of Aphaia dedicated to the goddess of Athena. Because the Saronic Gulf islands are so close to Athens, getting here is simple — a hydrofoil from the port of Piraeus ferries you from Athens to each of these destinations.

Hydra and Spetses are brimming with converted captains' homes (we like the Cotommatae on Hydra and Orloff Resort on Spetses). On Poros, Sto Roloi is a collection of traditional island houses turned into holiday villas, while Sirene Blue Luxury Beach Resort offers plush suites and villas with access to swimming pools and a private beach. Renting a villa through Five Star Greece is also an option, especially on Aegina where weekend homes outshine the hotels. The crown jewel of the Saronic Gulf is Spetses' harborfront Poseidonion Grand Hotel, established in 1914, which is just as lavish as its name suggests.

The Ionian Islands

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Lush and green, the Ionian Islands (also known as "Eptanissia" or the "seven islands") offer unique local culture, music, art, cuisine, and architecture. While the Ionians are known, first and foremost, for Corfu, the six other main islands hold their own and attract their fair share of tourists, too.

How to Travel the Ionian Islands

On Corfu, you'll want to wander the streets of the island's UNESCO-protected Old Town . Near Corfu, tiny Paxos is covered in olive trees, with three charming bays and a satellite island, Antipaxos, known for its translucent waters. The largest of the Ionian Islands in size, Kefalonia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece and has semi-wild horses running around Mount Ainos in its center. Zakynthos is home to Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach), accessible only by sea, and iconic blue caves you can swim through. Lefkada, connected to the mainland by a bridge, has woodland villages and some of Greece's best beaches along its shores. Small Ithaka, known to Homer fans as the home of Odysseus, is still relatively undiscovered. Finally, Kythera is the outlier — it looks more Cycladic than Ionian and is more easily reached from the Peloponnese.

Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Kythera all have airports, which receive domestic flights from Athens as well as international charters and airlines.

On Corfu, options range from stylish seaside resorts like the Grecotel Corfu Imperial to historic 18th-century estates in the Tuscan-like interior such as the Pelecas Country Club . Near the Old Town, the first Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts property in Europe, Angsana Corfu , offers a gorgeous seaside enclave with 159 rooms and lavish pool villas.

On Kefalonia, the ultra-modern Tesoro Blu is an adults-only oasis just outside the village of Skala, and the Emelisse Nature Resort is a gem outside the picture-perfect town of Fiscardo. Its sister property on Ithaka, the Perantzada , is a contemporary hotel within a 19th-century mansion on the harbor in Vathy. Little Paxos is all villa rentals and rooms to rent except for a few intimate hotels, like Agali Hotel Paxos and Paxos Club Resort & Spa . On Zakynthos, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is a swanky oasis on the busy eastern coast, and in the quiet north of the island, near the blue caves, Nobelos is a four-suite, family-run hotel beloved for its organic restaurant.

The Sporades Islands

There are 24 of these green islands off of the northeastern coast of mainland Greece, but only four are inhabited — and if you've seen "Mamma Mia , " you know what they look like. Dark green pine trees, white churches, and lots of sand, rocks, and singing. It's all part of the Sporades experience.

How to Travel the Sporades Islands

Buzzy Skiathos is famous for its gold-sand beaches and nightlife, while low-key Skopelos is a natural paradise of white pebble coves, oak forests, monasteries, traditional villages, and lots of shipwrecks off the coast in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades . Alonissos is at the center of the National Marine Park, a great base for fishing, bird-watching, and spotting the protected Mediterranean monk seal. Finally, Skyros is known for its ceramics and local crafts, churches, and gorgeous Chora, a mountaintop capital crowned by a Venetian castle.

To get to the Sporades, you can fly directly from Athens to Skiathos and Skyros. Skiathos is also served by a ferry from Thessaloniki. In summer, hydrofoils sail to all four islands from the port of Agios Konstantinos on the mainland. You can travel between the islands by ferry or private boat.

On these four islands, tourism is all about sailing, swimming, mountain biking, sea kayaking, and hiking. Hit the beaches — Skiathos's swanky Ambelakia to see and be seen, Skyros's Kalamitsa for wind-surfing, Skopelos's Hovolo for pine-scented breezes. Above all, do not miss sailing, swimming, or scuba diving in the marine park.

There are villas to rent all over the islands (like the ones with private pools run by Poikilma Villas on Alonissos). For a more full-service hotel, try the family-run Atrium Hotel above Agia Paraskevi beach in Skiathos, or the Adrina Resort & Spa on the beach in Skopelos.

The Northeast Aegean Islands

This collection of more than a dozen islands (the five most notable being Ikaria, Samos, Lemnos, Lesvos, and Chios) is the area of Greece closest to Turkey. For your journey here, you'll be richly rewarded with incredible beaches and natural wonders (a petrified forest on Lesvos, volcanic rocks and sand dunes on Limnos, and thermal springs on Ikaria).

How to Travel the Northeast Aegean Islands

Lemnos, Lesvos (also known as Mytilene), and Samos all have international airports, and Chios and Ikaria have domestic ones. There are several ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens that can take you to these islands as well.

Visit the archaeological sites of the Temple of Hera on Samos, the acropolis on Thassos, the ancient city of Ifestia on Lemnos, and the magnificent castle atop Lesvos. While these islands are famous for their history, they're also known for their water sports. Keros Beach on Lemnos is one of the best places to kite- or windsurf in Europe. As for swimming, it's hard to beat the Seitani coves on Samos, Kipos beach on Samothrace, white-sand Seychelles on Ikaria, and Vatera on Lesvos.

Time-travel back to when Genovese nobility ruled Chios and stay at the majestic Argentikon Luxury Suites in a 16th-century estate. Sleep above popular Tsamadou beach at the Armonia Bay Hotel on Samos, overlooking the sea at Toxotis Villas on Ikaria, or on the beach in a luxury safari tent through Surf Club Limnos .

The Dodecanese Islands

This archipelago gets its name from the Greek number 12 (dodeca) because it contains — you guessed it — a dozen main islands and multiple smaller ones. Rhodes and Kos are the two largest islands, while the smaller 10 are quieter and less discovered.

How to Travel the Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes and Kos have international airports (making them popular among travelers who fly in from England and Germany), and Astypalaia, Kalymnos, and Karpathos receive domestic flights. All 12 main islands are served by ferries from the port of Athens, Piraeus.

Rhodes is known for its beautifully preserved walled city with Crusader castles and an ancient synagogue. And in the town of Lindos, there's an ancient Greek acropolis at the top of the hill, a medieval village in the middle, and a modern town on the beach at the bottom. Highlights on adjacent islands include the mansions of Kasos, the brightly painted houses of Kastellorizo, and the hilltop Chora (historic center) of Astypalea, one of the prettiest fortified villages in all of Greece. For a more active Greek isles experience, retreat to Karpathos to hike or windsurf, or scuba dive amid the World War II wrecks on Leros.

On Rhodes, soak in the atmosphere at Melenos Lindos , a 17th-century building with a pebbled mosaic roof deck offering sea views, set into the hill just under the acropolis. On Astypalaia, the island's breathtaking Chora is both the inspiration for, and the location of, Pylaia Boutique Hotel & Spa , which has a pool, spa, and ocean views from the Plori restaurant at its peak. And finally, on Patmos, overlooking the sea (and the famous Kalikatsou rock), The Petra offers luxurious suites equally convenient for the beach and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian .

Travelling Without a Passport

How to Travel Between the Greek Islands (Reliably and Affordably)

There is something completely magical about the Greek Islands and there are so many to choose from, you are almost spoilt for choice! The Greek Islands are divided into groups, with some islands more popular with travellers than others. While each island shares similar traits with others of the same group by way of culture, climate and historical backgrounds, it’s still a great idea to travel between a few of the different groups to ensure you get a well-rounded experience.

Travel to: Greek Islands

So what’s the best way to get around and how much will it cost to travel between your islands of choice? The first step of your trip will be deciding which of the Greek Islands you consider “must-see,” after that, everything will start to fall into place.

We’re breaking down the list of islands by their groups: 

•        Cyclades

o    Mykonos, Tinos, Sifnos, Syros, Serifos, Paros, Antiparos, Santorini, Kea, Andros, Koufonisia, Milos, Naxos, Amorgos, Ios, Folegandros and others

•        Dodecanese and Samos

o    Patmos, Kos, Tilos, Symi, Rhodes, Kalymnos, Leros

•        Argo-Saronic 

o    Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, Kilada, Salamina and Agkistri

•        Ionian Islands

o    Corfu, Paxos, Levkada, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Zakinthos, Kythira

•        Evia (Euboia); the second biggest island in all of Greece!
•        Sporades

o    Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonnissos & Skyros

• Crete; the biggest island in Greece

o   The Northeastern Aegean Islands

• Lesbos (Mitilini), Chios, Samos, Limnos, Ikaria, Samothrace, Fournoi, Inouses, Psara, Agios Efstratios, Thasos

Most Popular Greek Islands

It’s incredibly difficult to decide which islands to visit, so we think it’s always a great idea to go on personal recommendations from like-minded people. Most often people name islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete, Kefalonia, Hydra and Skiathos as being amongst their favourites.

Santorini and Mykonos are a part of the Cyclades islands, Kefalonia is part of the Ionian islands, Hydra calls into the Argo-Saronic islands and Skiathos is a part of the Sporades islands. These should all be considered a wonderful mixture of different island groups and by extension, divine and unique experiences with each one!

For anyone travelling to the Greek Islands for the first time, I would highly recommend taking the ferry between the islands. On my very first trip to the Greek Islands, we took the ferry to Mykonos, Paros and Santorini which was fantastic! The ferries are very affordable and you are able to book your journey online! Payment per trip is up to 15 euros as a foot passenger where you can sit anywhere on the boat, and slightly more if you would like to have a specified seat on the ship with a little more comfort! The ferries are comfortable and well equipped with everything you need for your Greek Islands journey. – Rebecca, The World As Bec Sees It

Getting to the Greek Islands

There are flights to some of the main Greek Islands, with international flights arriving and departing from Crete, Corfu and Rhodes, but for local flights from the mainland, you can fly into most islands on discounted flights through airlines like Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air.

Sometimes flights will be seasonal or chartered, so it’s best to check this in advance, and you’ll also have to keep an eye on their newsfeeds for updates about discounted flights so you never miss a deal. Inter-island flights are hard to come by, so it’s best to fly into your first port of call and then opt for alternative travel between the rest of the islands. Consulting Sky Express is probably your best bet for any available inter-island flights that can also be really reasonably priced.

There are so many incredible islands of Greece, some hidden treasures and some quickly becoming the new tourist hotspots. When planning to travel the islands, my advice is to see as many as possible on your first visit to get a greater understanding of the ones you love – and then visit those again and again whilst adding new ones to discover to the plans each time. There are a few ways to travel the islands – you can hire a private yacht, take the ferries, go with a tour boat or fly. Ensure you research which islands have airports and which you’ll need to travel by boat. If there are both options, I would jump on a plane from the mainland and then opt for a ferry in between islands for a very comfortable and cost effective option. If you want to do things a little more luxurious, you can hire a yacht and cruise from island to island, and if you want a taste of luxury but it isn’t in the budget to hire a personal one, a lot of tour companies do island hops or day trips. Either way, boats are the way to go as you will have to worry about your luggage allowance by plane and distribute your weight between check in and carry on which can be difficult when you’ve packed more than 20kg! A flight is great for getting to your first island, but once you’re there you won’t want to worry about distributing luggage/checking in and getting to and from the airports, which can sometimes be further out. You can take as much as you like on the ferries which leave from the main ports, and you can even take a hire car on board and drive straight off when you dock (at an extra cost of course!) If you are staying at a hotel, request a transfer from the port so you won’t have to wait around in queues. Tips: If flying on the small Greek airlines ensure you check in a couple of hours before the flight or you could be fined. With ferries, it’s best to price check and book in advance as sometimes morning can be more expensive than afternoon and vice versa. You can also upgrade for a small price difference to business class which is higher above sea level (recommended if you have troubles with sea sickness!) Sometimes even the days of the week can vary with the ferries, so although it’s nice to be spontaneous, a planned trip for the islands will save you time, money and frustration. – Olivia, Olympia

See Also: Greek Islands vs Croatia

Ferrying to and Around the Greek Islands

Flights can add a hefty price tag to your travel plans if you don’t manage to get the discounted deals, so it’s good to have different options. The ferries from Athens to the Greek Islands and from island to island are really affordable, but the tickets sell out quickly so you have to book in advance.

Ferry timetables and routes can change so make sure you check up on your timetable (available online) prior to your date of travel. The only downside to ferrying is that the trips can be cancelled due to very bad weather conditions with no indication of when they will resume. This is a rarity with the standard ferries as they are quite robust and fit to challenge swells.

One of the most important planning steps for your trip to the Greek Islands determining how you will travel among them. Here are our recommendations: Ferries –  Enjoy shared and private accommodations, luxury cabins, and more depending on your comfort level. Enjoy cafes and bars open all hours of the day to accommodate all appetites and lots of entertainment options. Usually booked with tours, Island-Hopping Cruises are highly recommended. Enjoy booze, fishing, sailing, and other cruise styles. Accommodations are available, though with limited facilities. Depending on your travel style, this would be the best choice for those wishing a more scenic adventure than simply convenience. – Janine, Fill My Passport The fastest and most comfortable transportation between the Greek Islands would be by flying. The views from the window seat will also blow you away… But another good and also cheaper option is by boat/ferry. It does take longer but can be comfortable as well. You can walk around the deck, drinking frape,  have a tzatziki snack and enjoy the cool sea breeze in your hair. And ports are normally in the town’s center so as soon as you embark you are ready for exploration. – Nina and Simon, Nina Travels

Inter-Island Travel By Catamaran Or Hydrofoil

If you want to get on your adventure quicker, then catamarans and hydrofoils are your best bet, although they are definitely subject to more frequent cancellations as they don’t operate well in bad weather conditions. These are also not advisable for people who are prone to seasickness, as the ride can be very bumpy, and the rates are also more expensive than the standard ferries. But if speed is your number one priority, catamaran or hydrofoil is your best bet.

Regardless of which islands and transportation you’ve chosen, we wish you safe travels!

Antonia is a passionate writer and an avid reader. Eat well, travel often - are some of the words she lives by. When she's not writing or reading, she loves getting out in nature, hiking or losing herself in unknown cities.

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Which Greek Island Should You Visit in 2024?

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with recommendations on where to stay chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveler .

Here, we've also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1 to 29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list—and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can—we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-traveled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotel options, and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best of the Greek islands for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of Milos, the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colorful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth–obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Milos Cove
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

Best of the Greek islands for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Big, fat Greek feasts

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

4. Santorini

Best of the Greek islands for: Honeymooners and first-timers

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind Santorini's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumors about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smoldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerizing views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For romance: Andronis Boutique Hotel
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

Best of the Greek islands for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colorful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks–one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid—with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Villa Syros sleeps 12 people

6. Folegandros

Best of the Greek islands for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favorite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at diminutive Astarti bar).

Folegandros–which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek–is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand Hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best of the Greek islands for: Antiquities, active adventures and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8 ); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda–a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs–the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the best beaches in Crete–try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat , a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: Domes Zeen Chania and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acros Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British, and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls Tuscany—but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s–now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specializes in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos–unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots–useless for farming–to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

10. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best of the Greek islands for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages–Assos and Fiskardo–didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkeling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

Best of the Greek islands for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

12. Serifos

Best of the Greek islands for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in August, you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbor, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

13. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

14. Zakynthos / Zante

Best of the Greek islands for: Seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

15. Amorgos

Best of the Greek islands for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from Athens. When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbor lined with great little fish tavernas (our favorites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers, and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best of the Greek islands for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbor towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favorite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their yachts. Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterized by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

17. Lefkada

Best of the Greek islands for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favorite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best of the Greek islands for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available–maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat—straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbor town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelized in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbor is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor

Best of the Greek islands for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi–an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favorite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best of the Greek islands for: Traveling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues, and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views–and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy–a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore–it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis–but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamor, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbor views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

23. Astypalea

Best of the Greek islands for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

24. Skiathos

Best of the Greek islands for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic–emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centered around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewelery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in Athens, Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner cocktails and The Windmill a favorite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best of the Greek islands for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harborfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches—perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

26. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci…the number of artists, designers, and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than five square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colorful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkeling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

27. Antiparos

Best of the Greek islands for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its checkered history—this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912–1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum—Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbor of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colorful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favorites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

29. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:  Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbor, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write The Magus , and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbor-front hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction), and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.

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The Best Greek Islands Travel Guide – The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping The Greek Islands

Last Updated March 28, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Guides » The Best Greek Islands Travel Guide – The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping The Greek Islands

The beautiful sandy beaches, coastal coves, and white-washed villages are what make legendary vacations. If it’s your first time here, it can be overwhelming. Covering multiple seas and thousands of islands, planning a Greek island hopping trip isn’t as straightforward without some research, especially if you plan on island hopping. This Greek Islands travel guide is a must-read for anyone heading there soon, there is also useful information that will be helpful to discover the best Greek Islands to visit for the first time

Let’s dig into the practical things you might already be making plans for, suggest a few things you may not have already thought of, and let’s delve deeper.

Read more about Greece

• 14 day itinerary Greek Island hopping in the Western Cyclades
• Athens 2 day itinerary
• How to get from Athens to Santorini
• Is Santorini worth it?
• Read more Greece travel tips

TOP TIPS FOR THE GREEK ISLANDS

• Where to stay – Our two favorite properties on our island hopping adventure were Prekas Apartments in Santorini and Giannoulis Hotel in Milos where one had epic views and the other just blew our expectations in terms of comfort and space. We used Booking.com for all of our stays. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Car rentals – Rent a car to get around the Greek Islands. Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
• Ferries – You will need to use ferries for island hopping. Get your tickets and check ferry schedules using Ferries in Greece .
• Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to Greece!
• Insurance – Make sure you’re covered for all of your adventure activities with the best travel insurance .
• Hottest deals – Never be without our frequently updated travel deals page .

In This Article

Greek Islands geography

Which islands to visit, getting there, getting around the greek islands, where to stay in the greek islands, what to pack, when to visit the greek islands, how much does a trip to the greek islands cost, 5 main takeaways , frequently asked questions, travel resources for your next trip, the best greek islands travel guide.

This Greek Islands travel guide will primarily focus on The Cyclades Islands, but it will also have information relevant for those planning trips to the whole Greek Archipelago, which spans 6,000 islands and takes up 7,500 km of the country’s 16,000 km coastline.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• 1€ EUR = $1.11 USD = $1.45 CAD
• ATMs can be found all over and the credit cards are widely accepted
• SIM card – The three main companies in Greece are COSMOTE ,  Vodafone, and WIND .  All companies have some sort of pre-paid package available.  Some are more aggressive about promoting in Athens with street stands but others you have to visit a shop for.  As an example, Vodafone offers 9.2GB for 20 EUR or 4GB for 10 EUR on top of minutes.
• Alternative data options – Airalo is what we used in Greece because eSIMs are so easy nowadays.  Make sure to use our code WILLIA9500 to save $3 USD.
• Measurement system  – Metric
• Tipping – Not a strong culture of tipping but is expected in the service industry. In general 10% is the rule of thumb.
• L anguage – The official language is Greek .

Back to the top

There are at least 6,000 islands in Greece scattered throughout two different seas. To grasp how wide it spans, you need to know the breakdown of these islands and the clusters that form this stunning archipelago.

In this free Greece travel guide we break it down between the two seas that are involved: Aegean and Ionian.

In the image below the boxes give you an idea of some of a few of the clusters of islands that you can visit in Greece.

The Northeastern Aegean Islands – Agios Efstratios, Thasos, Ikaria, Lesbos, Limnos, Inouses, Samos, Samothrace, Chios, Psara.

The Sporades Islands – Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros.

Evia – The island of Evia is the second largest Greek island after Crete and is also known by its ancient name of Euboea. Its close proximity to Athens on mainland Greece makes it a popular destination for the residents of Athens. It is bordered by the region of Viotia, (latinized as Boeotia or Beotia) to the east, with the south touching the Aegean Sea, before spreading into the Evian Gulf.

Islands of Argosaronic – Angistri, Aegena, Methana, Poros, Salamina, Spetses, Hydra.

The Cyclades – By far the largest island group with a total of 56 islands, the most important ones being Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Syros, Folegandros and several others, as well as the ‘Minor Cyclades’ comprising Donousa, Irakleia, Koufonisia and Schinousa.

The Dodecanese – Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos, Chalki.

Crete – Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is divided into four prefectures: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi.

The Ionian Sea is to the west of mainland Greece, and while they may not be as famous as the ones in the Aegean Sea, they are equally beautiful and are often visited more by the local Greeks.

The Ionian Islands – Zakynthos, Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxi, and Kythira

From here, it breaks down into smaller islands – Antipaxi, Ereikoussa, Kalamos, Kastos, Mathraki, Meganissi, Othoni, Skorpios, and Strofades.

There are a few groups of smaller islands that don’t really belong anywhere, including the islands of Gavdos (situated south of Crete), Elafonissos (in the Gulf of Laconia), and Trizonis (in the Gulf of Corinth).

How do you choose which is the “best Greek island to visit”?  We wanted to start with a few baseline itineraries.  First we checked out the Greece travel itineraries of G Adventures and Intrepid Travel to get a few ideas to form our own Greek Islands travel guide.

To help you through that thought process we broke down how we ended up here in our 14 day Greece island hopping itinerary :

• Decide which sea you want to do – Ionian or Aegean?
• For a trip spanning 2 weeks, pick a cluster to focus on. Jumping between island groups makes ferries complicated, distances long, and time wasted. You want to optimize the time you have with minimal transport so you can spend precious time exploring and soaking up the islands.
• If there’s a specific island you want to visit, for instance Santorini, skip steps #1 and #2. It also helps to know whether Santorini is worth visiting , read that alongside this Greek Islands travel guide.
• Divide your number of trip days by 3. That’s how many islands to visit without rushing your way through. For example on our 14 day trip we could only fit in 4 islands comfortably. You could try to fit in more if you were really ambitious. Our guide how many days in Santorini you need should help give you an idea of how to gauge your time in each place.
• Research blog posts and look at photos. Here, we committed to visiting 2 popular islands and 2 lesser known ones of Greece .

With this guide and content created for your Greece travel, we hope it’ll make your trip planning easier.

BEFORE YOU CONTINUE 

You need to read the the full 14 day Greek island hopping itinerary to get an idea of how to plan and choose the right islands in the Western Cyclades. Read that after this Greek Islands travel guide.

2 Week Greek Islands Itinerary

For our trip, we focused on how to get from Athens to Santorini , but for a more general look, you should learn about flying vs. ferry.

Greece’s primary international airport is Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH). It’s your main way in and out of the country coming from an international destination.

As the capital of Greece, flying into Athens makes sense. If it’s your first time you should make some time to explore the city.  It is also home to the ports that will take you down to the Western Cyclades area of the Greek Islands.

Not all islands have airports, but the larger ones do, including Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos and a few more. So if you can fly into these airports easily you can start your trip from one of these before moving onto your next destination.

There are direct flights to Santorini!   From Europe you can grab one from Thessaloniki, Naples, Rome, Venice, Milan, Barcelona, Prague, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, and London.

Once in Greece, the main national carriers are Aegean and Olympic Air. RyanAir is a discount carrier that also services Athens and Santorini. We recommend using Skyscanner or the Skyscanner app to find the best prices on flight tickets.

When visiting the Greek Islands, you’ll likely fly in via Athens. If time is tight and cost is no issue, fly into Santorini and then fly out of another island with an airport. Then you’ll likely be taking ferries in between the islands.

The primary way to get around to the Greek Islands is by ferry. It’s not the fastest, but they run frequently, and they hit islands you can’t fly to. They also do run somewhat on time so you can plan your travel between islands fairly accurately.

Traditionally, visiting the Greek Islands means starting in Athens and island hopping with ferries exclusively. This is the most cost-effective method but takes time because the trip from Athens to any island is usually going to be your longest leg. Ferries function like buses and stop at multiple islands, they’re usually on time but delays and cancellations can sometimes happen.

Ferry companies

There are a number of ferry companies out there that operate between the islands and the mainland.  The main ones that are relevant for The Cyclades are Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, Golden Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways and Aegean Speedlines. For the rest you can find out more information here .

Ferry itinerary

When planning your island hopping itinerary, using a tool like Ferries in Greece makes things easier.  We dub this tool the “Skyscanner of ferries.” You can basically enter in the itinerary as you would a flight search tool, and it’ll give options and prices to choose from.

Use this Ferry Planning Tool

FerryHopper allows you to find out what ferry companies are operating to and from Santorini. We recommend using this to help with trip planning.

• Are there any discounts? – We found that if you aren’t a local or able to take advantage of a large pass, there weren’t any codes or promotions to take advantage of but it never hurts to check.
• Can you save money staying with one ferry line? – Even if you do a multi-leg journey, there are no discounts or reasons to use one particular line but you can also jump around between different companies. You don’t need to stick to one.
• Is there a point in waiting to book ferries? – Only if you’re still unsure of your plan. Once you have that there’s no point in waiting. Ferry prices don’t drop if you book last minute and you don’t want your specific route to sell out, which in peak seasons can easily happen well in advance. Make sure to use Ferries in Greece to get organized as soon as you have your plans confirmed.

Getting the ferry from Athens: Piraeus vs. Rafina

In Athens there are two ports:

• Located to the east of Athens
• Closest to the city center of the two ports
• There is a convenient direct bus from Athens Airport
• Takes 30-40 minutes to get here from Athens Airport by bus
• No metro options to get to Rafina
• Fewer ferries run from this port
• Bus from the airport costs 4 EUR
• Located to the south west of Athens
• Primary port from Athens
• There are more ferry route options that operate from here
• Various different options to get to Piraeus (bus, bus + metro, metro)
• Takes one to 1.5 hours to get here from Athens Airport by bus
• Bus from the airport costs 6 EUR

Taking the bus from Rafina

The Rafina bus is privately-run and the location isn’t where you may expect compared to the bus to Piraeus.  The bus is located right across from the Mitsis Hotel at the airport, between Exits 2 and 3 where you’ll first cross the street. 

The bus schedule can be found here .  Note that this bus is not 24 hours, so check the schedule based on your flights. Credit card is accepted for booking.

Taking the bus from Piraeus

If you’re headed to Piraeus, look for public bus number X96.  The ride is about an hour and the full schedule is here .  This bus runs 24 hours.

Note that public buses on the arrival level are easy to find because all signs for public transportation will point you that way.

You can purchase your tickets at the booth and you are also able to pay by credit card.

Boarding and disembarking ferries

Every ferry company is slightly different because each ship is constructed and run differently. But there are general similarities that you can expect from boarding to disembarking.

On most islands there is a waiting area at the port where they have divided columns.  Sometimes they’re labeled with the right ferry route and times but usually it’s not that organized . If in doubt, ask other people if you’re in the right place.  Some waiting areas are just an open lounge and someone will yell out the next ferry when it comes in.  Sometimes there’s no covered waiting area at all and you just find a random place to sit. This is all part of the charm of Greek island hopping!

As the boat arrives, everyone seems to automatically know to start a queue and the attendant lets you know when it is your turn to board.

Boarding – Once the ramp is down, cars and passengers that are arriving at the port exit first. Then they’ll call everyone waiting to board to walk up the ramp and put your luggage on the racks available in the cargo/car hold.  There’ll be stairs on the left and right heading up to the main deck of the ship and there’ll be someone scanning tickets there.  After that, head up and grab a seat or watch the action from the open rear of the ship.

Disembarking – When the ferry is close to the destination port, they’ll make an announcement for everyone to gather in the cargo hold.  You’ll then head back downstairs and grab your luggage.  Once the ramp drops down, the crew will be yelling and ushering for everyone to quickly get off.  So make sure you are organized and move fast!

About Piraeus

The boarding process is a little different in Piraeus because of its massive size and all of the unloading is done on arrival so they’re waiting for you to board.  There’s no luggage held down below.  Instead, you bring your luggage to the cabin and store it in shelving areas.  These are relatively safe but we recommend dropping by your cabin when the boats start docking to make sure nobody takes their chances during disembarking.

Your ferry ticket will have a specific gate you need to go to so account for time to figure out where that is.   If you take a look at the map below, the subway is closest to E5 and E6.

• Gate E1 – Ferries for Dodecanese Islands (Rhodes, Kos, Kastelorizo, Kos etc) – Blue Star Ferries / Superfast Ferries
• Gate E2 – Ferries for North Aegean Islands (Lesvos, Chios, Samos) (Blue Star Ferries & Hellenic Seaways)
• Gate E3 – Ferries for Crete. (Minoan, Anek, and Blue Star Ferries)
• Gate E4 – Ferries for Crete and other small islands such as V.Kornaros and Prevelis
• Gate E5-E6 – Blue Star Ferries for Cyclades
• Gate E7 – Speedrunner, Highspeed 4& 6, and Nissos Mykonos
• Gate E8 – Ferries for Saronic Islands, catamarans and hydrofoils
• Gate E9 – SeaJets and Zante Ferries (E10 is the exit, E9 is the entrance)
• Gate E11 & Gate E12 – Cruise ships gates, only for passengers of the cruise ships.

Onboard experience

• Bringing food onboard – They didn’t seem strict on outside food at all so feel free to bring your own picnic.
• Assigned seats – Seats are automatically assigned with ticket purchase.  For the less-crowded inter-island ferries, nobody checks your tickets for your assigned seats.  They usually don’t care if you move somewhere else within the same class.
• Electrical outlets – There weren’t any by our seats.
• Bathrooms – Several onboard and we found all of them to be pretty clean.

• Announcing stops – There are announcements made in Greek and English so it’s clear what the next port is even if your Greek isn’t quite up to scratch.
• WiFi –  Many offer paid wifi.  On Golden Star Ferries it’s 3.50 EUR for 3 hours.
• Those that get sea sick easily –  My wife gets sea-sick quite easily and she did okay for most ferries because the water was relatively calm.  If this is an issue, sit on the outside rear deck for fresh air and the ability to focus on the horizon. You can also prepare with dramamine and sea sickness bands if you tend to suffer.
• Upgrading classes –  The business-class section always had their own deck or closed off area but all we saw was that they had access to somewhat larger seats, maybe a window and a table if that’s important to you.  For the longer distance ferries, some have cabins. This might be worth booking to get some sleep if your ferry is overnight.

Ferry Travel Tips:

• They run the AC pretty high inside the boat so make sure you have a jacket or sweater on-hand. Something light and packable like this is good to always have in your backpack .
• There is no access to the front of the ships, so you can only be outdoors if you stand on the rear deck.
• Set an alarm on your phone if you think you’re going to sleep.  The disembarking process is very swift and you don’t want to miss it or be in a rush and forget to grab all your belongings.
• Make sure the phone number you put on your booking is the actual phone number you’re going to have when you are in Greece.  We know that’s hard for those wanting to pick up a local SIM, which is why something like Airalo actually makes more sense because you know your number when you land.  Ferry companies do send out SMS to let people know about delays, changes in schedule, and cancellations so it is really helpful to make sure your phone number is correct.
• Ferries are sometimes on time but not always.  For us, some ferries were pretty on the dot, and others showed up 15 minutes late. Make sure you don’t plan your schedule to be so tight that you can’t absorb any delays.

Checking in online vs printing your tickets

What you’ll find different from flying versus taking a ferry is that the technology hasn’t advanced very far in Greece.

You can purchase all of your ferry tickets online, but only a few companies have a way of checking in online.  One of them is Golden Star Ferries .  This was a pleasant surprise because we were able to check in weeks in advance and have tickets with a QR code printed.

Other companies use old-fashioned printed tickets which need to be picked up.  You have to go to very specific offices to have these tickets printed.  Plan around visiting the designated offices for the ferry tickets you don’t have.  They usually have one by the port but don’t expect it to be the official ferry company.  Instead, they partner with third-party travel agencies so make sure to read the instructions to collect your tickets.

As an example, we took Blue Star Ferries to Paros and Golden Star Ferries to Santorini. Our last set of ferries was with SeaJets and we didn’t get a chance to go to one of their offices to have physical tickets printed.  In Santorini, the SeaJets partner is Nomikos Travel in Fira so we made sure to drop by our first day.  Note that these offices charge 0.50 EUR per ticket .  We aren’t sure if all agencies have this extra surcharge but it is something to keep in mind.

All of this is to say that you need to have physical ferry tickets in hand, whether they be digital or physical. When you book your ferry tickets with Ferries in Greece you can then arrange where to pick up each set of tickets you need.

BOOK YOUR FERRIES

Getting from Athens to Santorini

We found there to be a lot of intricacies when it came to our trip from Athens to Santorini . Be sure to read our full guide if this is part of your itinerary.

The main question you’ll have is – is it better to fly or take the ferry? All of that gets answered here .

You need to read the 14 day Greek island hopping itinerary if you’re having trouble figuring out which islands you should visit and honest feedback on how it all went.

When visiting the Greek Islands, you’ll want to explore.  Luckily most islands aren’t overwhelmingly large, however, you can’t walk everywhere you might want to.

Unless you plan on exclusively staying at your resort, you’ll need to plan on which days you need a vehicle and note what type .

The challenge you’ll face is deciding whether you should rent a traditional car or an ATV.  Scooters are also available but we wouldn’t recommend them unless you ride them frequently or have a ton of experience. Some of the roads are pretty basic and other drivers are likely more comfortable with the terrain and route, making it a hotspot for inexperienced riders having accidents.

The tried and true method of getting around the island.  Car rental companies are everywhere and the process to rent them is simple.

Depending on your requirements (having a larger group of people, moving luggage, comfort, experience, etc.), the car may be your only choice.  With a car, you know what you’re getting and on most islands, all the places you’ll go are paved so there’s no issues getting around.

If Santorini is in your plans, check out this guide on where and how to rent a car in Santorini .

Pro:  Fits more than 2 people, protects from the sun, stays cool with air condition, spacious and can transport more things.

Con:   May not be as capable, or even possible, when it comes to off-road, uses slightly more gas and is less exciting than the alternative of an ATV. If you’re staying in old town areas the roads may not be accessible for cars.

Tips:  

• You need an international driver’s license .  Yes, this is an absolute must.
• Ask about insurance and know your coverage.
• When renting a car, make sure to ask for your transmission of preference because they will assume manual if you don’t say anything.
• Ask for recommendations on how much gasoline you should fill in the tank based on where you’re going and how many days.
• Most cars you will rent in Greece are never full so there’s always the worry about whether you’ll have enough and how much to fill off the bat.  You will need a lot less than you think.   As an example, in Paros we filled up to the max from 3 ticks down on the gauge and after 2 days we barely used one tick.  Filling up 48 EUR was a big mistake because 10 EUR would’ve been enough.
• What you see listed by a car rental company isn’t always the price they offer.  There’s always an element of negotiation or they would just offer up automatic discounts.  Yes, this may have been because we were in Greece during low-season but never be shy about asking for a discount.  The fluidity of the price is why some car rental companies didn’t even allow me to take photos of their pricing sheet.
• Discounts can only be had if you pay by cash.
• During low season, reservations don’t seem to be necessary but would recommend it during high season.
• With a car, you can take advantage of the extra storage by loading up on supplies at the grocery store.
• You might not need the car every day so plan your itinerary in a way where you only need it for a grouping of days to save money.
• Think about whether it makes sense to rent from the port or not.  It’s advantageous for those wanting a round trip rental from the point you get off the ferry to when you need to get on it again.  Alternatively, some car rental companies allow you to pick up a car from one place and drop it off at the port.  These are called one-way rentals and some have a minimal charge for it and others might add a significant fee.

We don’t know any other place in the world where ATVs are this prevalent but it’s totally a “thing” on the Greek Islands.  You’ll see them everywhere and be tempted to try it.

If there are two of you, and at least one is comfortable with driving an ATV, it’s a fun way to get around any island.  They are incredibly handy when it comes to going off-road and in tight spaces because they are much smaller and more capable of handling all types of terrain.

The disadvantage is storage space.  You’ll need to make sure your items can be strapped onto the vehicle or fit inside the storage compartment.  We had lots of camera gear and things were tight but we managed to fit it.

If you’re not totally confident in driving an ATV on your own but still want to try the thrill of it, try this guided ATV tour through Santorini to get the hang of it while enjoying sights, local foods and wines along the way

We recommend trying the ATV on an island that has less traffic and large roads, such as Santorini, Milos or Paros, so you can get comfortable with driving around, especially if it’s your first time.

Pros:  Off-road capabilities, great on tight turns (a factor in Milos ), uses less gasoline and loads of fun!

Cons:   Minimal storage space, no cover from the sun, learning curve to learn how to drive, not as safe as a car and no AC.

ATV Travel Tips:

• You need an international driver’s license !
• Test the ATV and make sure that brakes work well before you leave the lot.
• Ask for a bungee cord if one isn’t provided to strap things to the front of the ATV.
• Similar to the car, most rental companies will offer discounts, especially during low season.
• The rear passenger on the ATV will be responsible for navigating by your phone’s GPS.
• Bring a sun hat and plenty of sun protection if you are visiting in the summer months. It is really easy to burn while cruising around in your ATV and you won’t feel it until you stop.
• Are ATVs easy to drive?  It’s quite easy to drive because it’s automatic.  You’ll just have to get used to making sure you hold the brake handle down when changing from Park to Drive and getting out of the habit of having your right foot rest on the secondary brake.
• Do you need more power than 170CC?   We drove all over the island with our 170CC ATV and had no issues when off-road and climbing hills.
• How much fuel should I fill up for 2 days?   On an island like Folegandros , we only used a fifth tank of fuel in two days.

Local buses

Every island has their own bus system – some better than others.  It’s an economical option and possible to travel exclusively by bus.

The challenge you’ll face is you’ll be at the whim of their schedules and routes.  It’ll get you to most places but some spots on the island you won’t reach.

Cost of the bus ranges from island to island but we’ve only seen it go as high as 3 EUR.

Where the bus works really well is in Santorini.  There are multiple routes, they’re comfortable coach buses and they only cost 1.80 EUR .

Pros:   Prices and one of the few options for those who don’t have a driver’s license.

Cons:  Most buses don’t run 24/7, you are limited to their route schedule.

Bus Travel Tips:

• Cash only. Try to have smaller change or notes available.
• Payment is taken on the bus.  You either pay the driver or the ticket attendant who goes around once the bus starts moving.

Taxis are the least cost effective way of getting around but may be necessary sometimes.  Where it makes sense to take a taxi is when needing transport from your airport or ferry port to your hotel and you’re not renting a car right away.

Taxis work just like every other country.  They normally run on a fixed fare system but we didn’t find this to be consisten t.  In most cases, you’ll hop in one and hope for the best.  If you read any of our individual island guides , you’ll see we’ve shared some of the rates we paid but keep in mind that rates can change over time so don’t take our rates as the set price for you to expect. Use them as a rough guideline.

There was no Uber coverage anywhere.  This may change in the future but we wouldn’t plan on using Uber on the islands.

Pros:  Door to door service and convenience.

Cons:   Expensive, at the mercy of their rates, may require some pre-planning in terms of booking particularly in less built-up places.

Taxi Travel Tips:

• In some instances, it’ll be smart to book a shuttle service in advance.  This can be done through your hotel or online .  You can save money and you won’t have to deal with the chaos that ensues when you arrive. We find that GetYourGuide has plenty of shuttle service options for most of the destinations you will arrive at on your Greek island trip.

Where to book your hotels, car rental, ferries, flights, activities

• Hotels – Booking.com has the best inventory of properties and with their Genius tier, you can save even more money.
• Car Rental – If you’ve read our guide, you can book with the big brands combined with car rental coupon codes or you can use RentalCars to do a search of most companies. Make sure to also read the guide on how to rent a car in Santorini .
• Ferries – My go-to booking platform is FerryHopper .
• Flights – Use Skyscanner to look for cheap flights using the Everywhere feature and also setting price alerts.
• Activities – Always compare between Viator and GetYourGuide to get the best price.

Depending on the island, you’ll have too many choices (Santorini, Mykonos, Milos), few choices (Folegandros, Sifnos, Serifos), or somewhere in between (Naxos, Paros).

Where You Should Stay in Santorini?

Where is the best area in Santorini to stay? Is Fira and Oia worth it? Read on to find out an honest look at each of the major towns and why you should consider each.

Where To Stay in Santorini

Instead of specific recommendations in this Greek Islands travel guide, we’ll share what we learned from planning our island hopping trip:

• Large chain hotels aren’t easy to find on the Greek Islands.  Santorini and Crete are the exceptions. Everywhere else will be family-run hotels, villas, guest homes, B&Bs and budget-friendly hostels.
• There are Airbnb properties but many are the same listings you’ll find on Booking.com .  We recommend Booking.com over Airbnb because there are better cancellation policies.
• We use Booking.com to book all of our accommodations.  Getting up to Genius level only requires 2 bookings. Once you’re at that level many properties offer 10% (level 1 Genius) and 15% off (level 2 Genius).
• Book at least 8-12 months in advance in busier islands such as Santorini if you want something that has a view.
• For accommodation recommendations read our individual guides for each island we visited ( Paros , Santorini , Folegandros ,  and Milos ).

Traveling to the Greek Islands doesn’t require a highly technical packing list.

A few things to consider specific to the Greek Islands:

• Beach towels – accommodation owners don’t like when guests use their towels at the beach.  Ask for a beach-friendly one or pack your own.
• International Driver’s License – Hopefully we’ve got this drilled into your head.  Make sure to get one before you go.
• Sunscreen – You can buy this there if you want to save on packing space. Between two people over 14 days, we’d recommend two full-sized bottles.
• Sunglasses – An obvious one, don’t forget these!
• Non-drowsy Gravol  – If you get motion sickness pack this.
• Exchange Euros – It’s always a good idea to have Euros with you immediately after you land. Don’t leave the airport without at least some Euros otherwise you might find yourself scrambling around to find exchange offices and be at the mercy of their rates.
• Europe plug adapters – Easy to forget but make sure to have a few with you.
• Bring layers – Whether it be on the ferries or windy up on the caldera of Santorini, you never know when you might need that extra layer.

Low-season (November – March)

Let’s start with when not to go to the Greek Islands.  Winters are pretty mild compared to other parts of Europe, but it’s quite variable with high chances of rain and dreary days.

In the low season the ferry and flight schedules are also reduced so your options are limited.  Most of the islands are populated by seasonal workers, so you’ll have to contend with skeletal services, facilities and closures.  Count on many hotels, restaurants, and activities (especially water-based ones) being closed.

The advantage is not many people travel to the islands in the winter so you won’t see many tourists.  Things won’t be as lively as they normally are in other parts of the year, which if this is the kind of trip you are looking for, the low season is perfect.

Spring to Summer (April – Mid-June) 

One of the best times to come.  Flowers are blooming, the weather is warming and the large tourist hordes haven’t quite arrived yet.

Shoulder season means better prices and vacancies for hotels.

At this time of the year, flights and ferries switch to their full capacity schedule or close to it.  Restaurants typically don’t need reservations and car rental companies are willing to offer additional discounts.

This applies even more for popular islands like Santorini.  Make sure to read the best time to go to Santorini .

High-season (Mid-June – Mid-September)

This is the height of travel. Expect every aspect to be more challenging whether it’s hotels, car rentals, restaurants, ferries, flights or activities. You can also expect for prices to skyrocket for everything, this is the least economical time to travel and prices can get wild.

Not only are you contending with massive crowds, but the temperature is the hottest if that is a consideration for your trip to the Greek islands.

The only exception to this is in the north with islands like Samothraki and Thassos.  They’re only super busy between July and August so you can get the summer heat with less of the volume of people.  Some of the more popular islands are super busy and not as enjoyable in the summer so if tranquility is the aim of your trip add Mykonos, Crete, Kos, and Zakynthos to a list of Greek islands to avoid.

Summer to Fall (Mid-September – October) 

The transition to Autumn is a great time to visit the Greek Islands.  Similar to Spring, the weather is more temperate with the sea balmier than the air.  Green lends its way to subtle Fall colors and that has its own beauty well worth experiencing while Greek island hopping.

If you’ve come from our Greek Island Hopping in the Western Cyclades itinerary , you’ll see the full breakdown of costs from that trip.  Flights are excluded because they vary drastically from person to person depending on your starting point.

The category breakdown of our spending looked like this:

$2318.82/person or $165.63/person/day .  Backpackers will look at this and say that’s too much and those looking for a luxury trip will think it’s too little.  We’d say that we were pretty moderate when it came to making decisions on our trip.

Where we splurged:

• Getting a nicer hotel in Santorini
• Nicer dinners where it made sense

Where we saved money:

• Finding affordable properties outside of Santorini thanks to Booking.com .
• Avoided excursions and activities.

Cutting costs:

• Don’t rent a car/ATV – rely on buses or stay in an area where you can walk everywhere.
• Hop to fewer islands.
• Avoid big islands and focus on lesser-known ones.
• Find cheaper hostel accommodations through Hostelworld .
• Buy your own groceries to save money on meals where it makes sense (breakfast especially).  There is something lovely about picking up pastries from a local bakery and enjoying it on a morning walk or sitting by the beach.

In short, this is what to know when planning a trip without reading this entire Greek Islands travel guide:

• You should have booked your Santorini hotel yesterday!  This is the most popular island and gets booked up fast.
• Pick a good balance of popular and small islands – don’t be afraid to try the unknown ones like Folegandros .
• Always break change – you never know when you’ll need it.
• Fill no more than 5 EUR at a time with your car rental or ATV.
• It’s easy to let your guard down when you go back to Athens after spending time in the Greek Islands.  Stay vigilant and beware of pick-pocketers immediately (read my story in the Athens 2 day itinerary ).

Santorini is the safest Greek Island to travel to, as it is one of the more popular islands, so there are always other tourists around. Here, locals are known to be very friendly and helpful to tourists, crime rates are low, and the transportation systems are highly rated as being reliable and safe to use.

The more affordable islands are Crete, Andros, Tinos, Corfu and Naxos, as they are less popular islands than some of the other well-known. Therefore, they are less travelled so prices on these islands are much cheaper than ones like Santorini.

Well you read this guide of course! Ultimately it depends on the type of experience you are looking for and the amount of time you are working with. For instance, if you don’t have much time during your travels the Saronic Islands are recommended since they are all close to Athens. If you are looking for the islands with the best nightlife, the Cyclades are for you. If you’re a foodie, you want to visit Crete! All islands offer something unique, so determining your visit will be unique to you!

Have specific questions about your upcoming trip to the Greek Islands?  Drop a comment below in this Greek Islands travel guide!

What you should read next

• Best Places To Stay In Crete – A Guide Of The Best Towns And Areas!
• Best Area To Stay in Santorini Guide
• Best Places To Stay In Corfu – Top Areas And What To See When There
• How To Backpack Europe On A Budget
• Cheapest Way To Travel Europe – Getting Around On A Budget

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Teresa says

January 22, 2024 at 10:41 PM

My paternal grandmother was from Chios. I want to visit. Is there any tourist activity there? Do you have any suggestions or advice?

Thank you, Teresa

William Tang says

January 24, 2024 at 11:02 AM

Hi Teresa! We haven’t been to Chios personally but from what we’ve heard there’s an incredible sunset hiking tour , and sailing experiences . On the island, there’s the Chios Mastic Museum, Mavra Voila Beach, the pretty Pyrgi church, Anavatos, and Nea Moni Monastery that are probably the most popular spots. I’d probably also seek out the smaller beaches as well such as Vroulidia and Agia Dinami Beach. Overall, there are many interesting historic relics that show its Turkish history from the Ottoman period. Hope that helps!

Hayley says

August 9, 2022 at 2:48 PM

First time traveller to greece, can you tell me how the ferry systems work? Is there a ticket booth you go to? if you’ve prepaid tickets online, is there a waiting area, etc?

August 10, 2022 at 12:34 AM

Hi Hayley! There’s quite a bit to unpack here so feel free to contact us . That said, you can definitely walk up to the ferry ticket booth at say Pireaus but we would not recommend this as tickets do sell out. There are also ticket offices in the city, but again, we suggest booking online in advance . With tickets pre-booked, you still need to convert your bookings to paper tickets (some are starting to upgrade to e-tickets but not all). You either do these at designated tour company offices or at the ferry company booth at port. Depending on the port, there are open waiting areas or lines specifically for the ferry you’re taking. Sometimes it’s not super clear where to go but it’s just a matter of asking around as you might’ve missed a sign.

Nick @ WorldWideGreeks.com says

June 16, 2021 at 4:55 PM

The Greek Islands are great to visit. There are so many and they are all so different! This is a nice guide, and it breaks everything down in a helpful way.

Nick @ WorldwideGreeks.com says

May 12, 2021 at 11:46 AM

The Greek islands are fantastic places to visit. There are so many islands, and so many things to do once you are at the island, it can be overwhelming. This is some great advice!

November 1, 2020 at 2:12 AM

Hi, Nice work . I have just one question, we intend to go on the island “Kythira” with are car , is there a ferry going to Greetings from Belgium

Will Tang says

November 2, 2020 at 10:50 AM

I just did a quick search for you on FerriesInGreece , they do but it depends on where you’re coming from. I presume the easiest for you will be from Pireaus in Athens. This is run by SeaJets and their ship Aqua Jewel. If you do a sample search on Nov 10 – Nov 22, you’ll see they are running. I believe this route runs twice a week. Ferries from Neapolis runs 6 times a week but obviously super far from Athens.

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My family’s from the Greek island of longevity, where people often live to 100: The 12 foods we always eat

On Ikaria, the Greek island where people "forget to die," as one centenarian told longevity expert Dan Buettner , is one of a handful of Blue Zones around the globe where people live an inordinately long time. 

In 2009, Greek physicians and researchers found that 13% of Ikarians in their study were over 80, compared to about 1.5% of the global population and about 4% in North America and Europe. People on the island were 10 times more likely to live to 100 than Americans .

I have deep family roots on Ikaria, and for almost two decades, I've been running a cooking school out of the kitchen and garden of my village home. My pantry is culled from the traditions of the Mediterranean: chock-full of all the things that have long given food its flavor in this part of the world.

Here's what's in an Ikaria-inspired pantry:

Beans and legumes

These are among the seminal ingredients of the Ikarian way of eating. Adding them to your everyday meal plan is proven to increase longevity and can help you phase meat out of your diet. Try:

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I couldn't imagine my life or kitchen without garlic! It's the ultimate flavor-packing, health - providing natural ingredient. There's a virtual pharmacopeia of goodness in every clove.

Modern-day Ikarians swear by it. My daughter makes a preventive infusion of raw garlic, mountain or sage tea, ginger, and honey, which she consumes when the temperature drops or she feels a cold coming on — advice taken from our friend, Yiorgos Stenos, 91.

Garlic makes almost everything taste better. It sweetens up as it softens and cooks, lending an almost caramelized flavor to so many different foods.

Whole grains are an integral part of the Ikaria diet. Here are a few different types to keep on hand:

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On Ikaria, myriad herbs grow wild and most of us can grow a few pots of fresh herbs at home, even if it's just on the windowsill. I use herbs with abandon in many of my recipes.

Most families have a cupboard packed with dried herbs, the therapeutic qualities of which are contained in the knowledge passed down from generation to generation. Basic dried herbs include: 

Nuts are an important ingredient in many of my plant-based recipes and traditionally are an important ingredient in Greek regional cooking. They grow abundantly throughout the country.

Here are a few of the most popular — and healthiest:

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Olives have been a staple in the Greek diet since prehistoric times, and they're one of the many preserves I always keep stocked.

In Greece, they're traditionally eaten on their own or in salads. I love to pair them with pantry staples like beans or pasta and other grains.

Olive oil is the defining food of the Mediterranean diet and an absolute must in the pantry. 

Many of the health benefits associated with the Mediterranean diet, and, by extension, the Ikaria diet, are attributed to the health properties of olive oil . I only use extra virgin oil, which simply means the oil is unrefined.

On Ikaria, many people, myself included, use sea salt that collects in the small natural salt basins that have formed along the island's rocky coastline over eons. It tastes better than regular table salt, which comes from mines and is heavily processed.  

This is one of my personal favorites. Consuming honey daily is one of the longevity secrets of the islanders. Honey is antibacterial , rich in antioxidants including flavonoids , and — unlike white sugar or artificial sweeteners — helps the body to regulate blood sugar levels . Many people here eat a spoonful every morning . 

You can add a liberal drizzle to your tea or a breakfast smoothie bowl, or whisk it into dressings.

Dried fruits

Figs and raisins are two dried fruits I always have on hand to use in all sorts of savory dishes, especially in salads and rice dishes.

Yogurt is a fermented food that has been part of the culinary tapestry of the Eastern Mediterranean for thousands of years. The traditional yogurt on Ikaria is produced with goat's milk and has a delicious sour flavor and creamy texture.

If goat's milk yogurt isn't to your liking, you might prefer the Greek yogurt commonly found in American supermarkets, which is similarly rich in probiotics.

Feta and similar cheeses

Almost all the cheese Ikarians make and eat is produced with goat's milk or sheep's milk, like feta. Much of it is naturally fermented.

Over the years of teaching mostly Americans who come to my classes, I've had many guests who are lactose intolerant but are able to enjoy the island's traditional goat's milk cheeses and even a glass or two of fresh goat's milk without a problem.

Diane Kochilas is the host and co-executive producer of " My Greek Table ," runs the Glorious Greek Cooking School on her native island Ikaria, and is the author of 18 books on Greek cuisine, including most recently, " The Ikaria Way: 100 Delicious Plant-Based Recipes Inspired by My Homeland, the Greek Island of Longevity ."

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From " The Ikaria Way: 100 Delicious Plant-Based Recipes Inspired By My Homeland, the Greek Island of Longevity ," by Diane Kochilas, Copyright © 2024 by the author, and reprinted with permission of St. Martin's Publishing Group.

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The U.S. issues new travel guidelines, warning that Iran will avenge the killings of senior commanders.

The State Department has barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel. Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back over the deadly bombing this month of an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria.

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By Liam Stack and Eric Schmitt

• April 12, 2024

Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were “highly alert” for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

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On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice,” while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.

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“For years, and even more so during the war, Iran has been financing, directing and arming its proxies — in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen — to attack the state of Israel,” he said. “An attack from Iranian territory would be clear evidence of Iran’s intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.”

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Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

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A 53-year-old tourist died in Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife after he was swept out to sea while trying to take a selfie

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A huge rescue operation was quickly launched which included a helicopter, ambulances, SUC medical personnel, as well as Maritime Rescue boats and agents from the Local Police, National Police, Guardia Civil, and the Fire Brigade. The Czech national was rescued by a helicopter which dragged him out of the sea.

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Canary Islands holiday warning: UK tourists issued travel warning as Morocco sends 'warships'

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The Canary Islands are bracing for potential disruptions to their peace and tourism due to Morocco's military offensive.

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In a recent speech to the Spanish Senate, Albares stressed the importance of maintaining Spain’s relationship with Morocco as a top priority in its foreign and state policies.

The manoeuvres come in the context of escalating regional tensions and increasing interest in maritime security, especially in areas of strategic importance such as the Strait of Gibraltar and the Canary Islands.

Lanzarote, Tenerife and other island holidaymakers have been warned over the military activities.

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He said: "The area of northwest Africa and the Canary Islands in particular need actions of peace and to flee from any message of militarisation”.

Yellow fever vaccine: Holidaymakers issued travel warning as fatal disease surges - symptoms and how to reduce risk

UK holidaymakers are being warned of a potentially fatal disease that is hitting some popular tourist hotspots.

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The Foreign Office has added eight countries to its “do not travel” warning list.

The government urges UK holidaymakers not to travel to the eight new countries added to the list as they have been declared “too dangerous”.

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issues advice to holidaymakers and regularly updates its travel advisories based on how dangerous countries are perceived to be and what particularly to look out for when visiting them. In total, 66 countries - or parts of countries - have been declared "too dangerous" for British tourists by the FCDO.

Eight nations have been added to the list by FCDO, these are Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Sudan, Lebanon, Israel, Belarus and the Palestinian territories.

These nations are categorised as either on the 'red list' or 'black list' by experts in the UK Foreign Office.

The FCDO does not ban UK citizens from travelling to these countries but it says they may find themselves without any government support if something were to go wrong.

The advice given for each country is slightly different but the same warning is given that help may not be offered to those who travel.

The Belarus warning from the FCDO reads: "Russian military operations are taking place in Belarus.

"There is some risk that direct conflict linked to the war in Ukraine may spread to Belarus. If conflict starts, FCDO’s ability to offer consular assistance will be severely limited. Routes out of the country are limited, particularly by air."

Currently the Foreign Office is sternly advising against travel, or all but essential travel, to 24 destinations on the 'black list'.

These destinations are: Afghanistan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Niger, North Korea, Palestinian territories, Russia, Somalia, Somaliland, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen.

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