athens greece day trip to islands

• Top day trips from Athens to nearby islands

Easy and fun island day trips!

• Ferry Tickets

Athens, the Greek capital, is a wonderful destination that offers amazing experiences and unique attractions. If you’re visiting this summer, you can try out island hopping from Athens !

Whether you’re interested in a one-day island cruise from Athens or you’re looking forward to the ultimate Athens island-hopping adventure, the capital city of Greece is a great starting point for your tour. 

So, where can you go on a day trip from Athens? Find the best Athens island-hopping options below and book your ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper!

View to the port of Piraeus in Athens

Island hopping from Athens: our top suggestions

You can visit many islands close to Athens . The islands of the Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades are the closest to Athens. The 3 ports of Athens serve frequent ferry routes to many destinations. Most ferries to the Greek islands depart from the port of  Piraeus , but there are also year-round routes from Lavrio and Rafina , making island-hopping trips from Athens easier than ever!

So, what islands can you visit from Athens ? You can travel by ferry from Athens to nearby islands such as Aegina, Agistri, Hydra, Kea, Spetses, Poros, and Kythnos, as well as other beautiful islands of the Aegean Sea, such as Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Crete, Lesbos, Kastellorizo, and so many more!

If you’re interested in 2-day trips from Athens to the Greek islands or a multi-day holiday break (on top of your regular holiday break), have a look at the best island day trips from Athens :

• Athens to Hydra
• Athens to Agistri
• Athens to Aegina
• Athens to Spetses
• Athens to Kea
• Athens to Poros
• Athens to Kythnos

Hydra island day trip from Athens

Hydra is a peaceful island in the Saronic Gulf. If you want to spend memorable holidays in a cosmopolitan and idyllic setting, Hydra is an excellent choice. In Hydra , you can visit remote beaches such as Avlaki, walk among important historical sites and impressive mansions, and attend concerts, artistic performances and cultural events.

Day trips to Hydra from Athens are easy to plan, with up to 2 daily ferry crossings  year-round. Ferries to Hydra depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens. If you want to include a road trip in your journey, you can also drive to the ports of Ermioni and Porto Cheli in the Peloponnese and catch the ferry from there.

The  ferry trip from Athens to Hydra lasts only 1.5-2 hours on average, as it is mainly serviced by high-speed ferries . Tickets for the ferry from Athens to Hydra start at €36 .

Tip : bear in mind that cars and motorcycles are not allowed on the island. Discover more Greek islands for car-free holidays here.

The beautiful town of Hydra

A refreshing day trip from Athens to Agistri

Agistri is one of the best islands to visit with friends , as it is an easy-going destination with impressive nature, amazing tavernes and beautiful beaches. In Agistri , you can spend relaxing moments by the sea, visit clothing-optional beaches such as Chalikiada (one of the favorite beaches among camping enthusiasts in Greece) and go hiking, cycling, kayaking and diving!

There are frequent ferries from Athens to Agistri throughout the year. In the summer, there are around 6   daily sailings to Agistri from the port of Piraeus. High-speed ferries to Agistri arrive at the port of Myloi, while standard ferries travel to the port of Skala. The duration of the trip with a high-speed vessel ranges from 50 minutes to 1 5. hours , with ferry tickets costing approximately €13 .

Tip : if you’re thinking of going camping this year, take a look at Ferryhopper’s camping essentials list .

Visit Aegina, the island closest to Athens

A day trip from Athens to Aegina island is a favorite among locals and visitors! In Aegina , you can swim at beaches with plenty of visitor services, such as Agia Marina, or remote coasts, such as Portes. Aegina is also an ideal destination for foodies due to its local products and a great option for history enthusiasts. The sanctuary of Aphaia in Aegina is one of the most impressive ancient monuments in Greece!

The best way to travel to Aegina is by ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens. If you’re visiting in the summer, you can catch the ferry from Athens to Aegina daily. There are up to  30 crossings per day from Athens to Aegina , as it’s one of the most popular island day trips from Athens.

Aegina is just 1hour  from Athens and it’s perfect for weekend breaks, as it is the closest Greek island to Athens. Ferry tickets start at €9  and you can travel from Piraeus with the ferry companies of  Hellenic Seaways , Saronic Ferries , San Lorenzo Ferries , and Aegean Flying Dolphins .

The virgin islet of Moni off the coast of Aegina

Explore the traditional Spetses

Spetses is one of the most cosmopolitan islands in the Saronic Gulf and it’s a top destination for couples. The day trip from Athens to Spetses is perfect if you’re after romantic moments and quaint views.

The island is distinguished by its regal architecture, impressive buildings, crystal-clear waters and off-the-beaten-path activities. While in Spetses, you can explore the town on a horse-drawn carriage, go hiking through the beautiful forest or visit the magical Bekiris cave.

Ferries from Athens to Spetses depart from the port of Piraeus up to 7 times per day . The Athens - Spetses ferry route is mainly operated by high-speed ferries , but there are conventional vessels too.

The ferry crossing duration from the port of Piraeus to the island of Spetses is around 2.5 hours  with a fast ferry. Tickets for this route start at €48 .

Have the best day-trip to Kea

Kea is the closest Cycladic island to Athens and a top destination for relaxing and peaceful vacations. In Kea , you can enjoy local delicacies such as ksinotiri and loza , visit amazing monuments, such as the Lion of Kea, and discover the island’s nightlife in the villages of Ioulis, Vourkari and Gialiskari. As for the best beaches, Ferryhopper suggests that you visit Sikamia and Xyla.

The best way to travel to Kea from Athens is through the port of Lavrio. Ferries from Athens (Lavrio) to Kea are usually daily in the summer months.

Occasionally, there are more ferry crossings from the port of Piraeus, but you may have to change ferries at Syros or Kythnos before reaching the island.

The trip duration from Athens to Kea is just 1 hour , making it one of the top one-day island trips from Athens. Tickets for the crossing are normally around €13 .

Tip : if you’re looking for more easy-going Greek islands to visit this year, have a look at our favorite Greek islands for relaxing holidays .

The lighthouse of Kea

Discover the beauty of Poros

Poros  is a marvelous green island in the Saronic Gulf. It’s a perfect destination for weekend breaks, as it is easily accessible both from Athens and Peloponnese.  The island of Poros is great if you’re looking for an island with a strong traditional character and modern amenities. You can explore the scenic alleys of the island, have fun at the lively bars, take the boat to the beautiful lemon tree forest of Galatas or visit the beautiful Love Bay beach.

Ferries to Poros depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens multiple times per day . Most ferries from Athens to Poros are high-speed, reaching the port in less than 1 hour . The duration of the trip depends on the ferry itinerary.

Tickets for the Athens - Poros ferry crossing cost about €17-€34 , depending on the type of vessel you’ve chosen.

Tip : from Poros, you can also travel directly by ferry to Hydra and Spetses. This way you can have a multi-day trip from Athens to 3 islands!

Hop on the ferry to Kythnos

Kythnos is a beautiful island in the Cyclades with majestic beaches, impressive nature, breathtaking hiking trails and a relaxing atmosphere. Even though the island is close to Athens, it has retained its authenticity and traditional way of life. While in Kythnos , we recommend that you swim at Kolona, explore the cave of Katafyki and admire the view from the Castle of Oria.

You can travel to Kythnos by ferry from the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio in Athens. Taking the ferry from Lavrio to Kythnos is the most popular option, with daily departures in summer. The trip duration is 1.5-2.5 hours , depending on the type of vessel. Tickets for the crossing from Athens (Lavrio) to Kythnos start at around €16 .

The Piraeus - Kythnos ferry route is available with 3-4 weekly ferry crossings in the summer. The journey duration from Athens (Piraeus) to Kythnos is approximately 3 hours , with tickets costing around €30 .

Tip : find the latest Greek ferry schedules and Greek ferry ticket discounts to plan your trip this summer.

View from a ferry departing from the island of Kythnos

You can find more ideas on Greek island day tours from Athens on our Map of ferries . Plan your Athens island-hopping adventure, find travel tips for 3-day island cruises from Athens or island day trips, and book cheap ferry tickets easily!

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7 Best Island Day Trips From Athens, Greece

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With so many islands to choose from, it’s often thought that to enjoy a Greek island experience one has to travel far from Athens by plane. This is not, however, necessarily true.

The Saronic Islands lie in the Aegean Sea, known as the Saronic Gulf, between Athens and the northeast coast of the Peloponnese. A cluster of smaller and lesser-known islands to the international tourist, they’re easily reached by ferry from the Port of Piraeus in sometimes less than an hour, making them perfect as a day trip or even weekend destination, and many Athenians have second homes there. 

Once you’ve experienced the best things to see and do in Athens and the best food to try , come with me as I explore the Saronic Islands and more to showcase the best island day trips for you. Usually the best time to go is in the summer, yet despite the islands not being as touristy as other popular Greek islands, expect them to be busier at this time of year. For good weather that will allow you to take advantage of the variety of things to do, spring and fall are good, too.

If you’re considering a visit to any island that’s recommended for hiking, note that spring and fall are better times for your visit, and hikes on these islands can be quite strenuous. Always seek local advice before setting out.

We start with Salamis, the nearest island to Athens at just 12 miles away from the small Port of Perama, very near the main Athenian Port of Piraeus. 

It’s often overlooked as a destination as it has a heavy shipbuilding industrial past, not a glitzy appeal — but it shouldn’t be. There are many nature walks to be had, and you’re bound to stumble across ancient antiquities, from the signposted monument of Kolones — a circular 4th-century stone funeral monument — to small stones with no indication of what they could be.

The fish market in Salamina, the island’s chief city, is an interesting place to witness local life, whereas the local Archaeological Museum — housed in a beautiful building that was the old elementary school — showcases Salamina’s historical past.

Although much of the island’s architecture has been replaced with new apartment blocks, the blue-framed, whitewashed house belonging to the famous Greek poet Angelos Sikelinos nestled by the sea is indicative of its past, and a great place to watch the sunset.

Pro Tip: Travel by car ferry (which operates every 15 minutes) from Perama on the mainland to Salamis. Journey time is 15 minutes.

Poros’s harbor is what will draw your eye initially to the island as you sail in. Poros Town is built amphitheatrically around the port — curved and rising from the ground up, surrounded by lush green pine forests.

The aesthetically pleasing neoclassical style buildings of the town are an attraction in themselves, as is the Clock Tower sitting atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the town and surrounding Saronic Gulf. It’s the local equivalent of Big Ben and a good place to take sunset pictures. 

Despite its small size (19 square miles), Poros offers several small sandy beaches to relax on, but if history is your thing, you’ll appreciate the smattering of churches across the island, many with ancient frescos and relics, the most visited being the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigis — which also served as an orphanage to children born of men fighting the Greek Revolution of 1821. 

Famed American novelist Henry Miller was moved upon seeing Poros when he visited in 1939, stating, “Coming into Poros gives the illusion of the deep dream. Suddenly the land converges on all sides and the boat is squeezed into a narrow strait from which there is no egress.” One could maintain that not much has changed since then.

Pro Tip: It takes a little longer to reach Poros — 2.5 hours by slow ferry from Port of Piraeus in Athens, or via hydrofoil in roughly an hour.

From pebbly beaches — one at the fishing village of Souvala in the north of the island with thermal hot springs that help rheumatic and dermatological problems — to the 500 B.C. Doric Temple of Aphaia Athena which, along with the Parthenon of Athens and Temple of Apollo at Delphi, makes up part of the Holy Triangle of Antiquity, to the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Nektarios, one of the largest in the Balkan region, much awaits you when you come to the Saronic island of Aegina. 

Greeks and foreign tourists alike come to Aegina for day trips and weekend breaks and its lack of all-inclusive resorts makes it a popular destination for relaxing, sightseeing, and drinking a coffee along the waterfront. 

With ancient sites, relaxing coves, and picturesque seaside villages, Aegina is a good choice for an island day trip from Athens.

Pro Tip: Both slow and fast ferries depart for Aegina almost every hour, and the journey time is between 30 minutes and one hour depending on which one you take.

Aegina’s smaller neighbor, Agistri is only 10 minutes from its big sister, and despite the fact it’s only 5 square miles and has just over 1,100 permanent residents spread out across its four villages, Agistri makes a perfect quiet island day trip.

As you enter the Port of Skala, the small blue-domed church of Agioi Anargyroi sits at the harbor’s edge ready to welcome you — it’s the first thing you’ll notice about Agistri. Skala also has a clean, organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, making it a popular spot to hop off the ferry and spend the day relaxing before taking the evening ferry back to Athens.

If you’re keen to explore more of the island, the beaches are served by a small bus service that regularly circles around. Or walk along the coastal road to find a selection of tavernas and restaurants all serving fresh fish, plus cafes and beach bars. 

Agistri’s allure is the wonderful natural surroundings of pine forests and views of the Peloponnese. For a quiet trip and a chance to spend time on the beach during a day away from the city, you can’t go wrong with this tiny Saronic island.

Pro Tip: There are regular connections from the Port of Piraeus in Athens with journey times of 1 to 2 hours depending on which ferry service you take. 

Known as the Jewel of the Saronics, Hydra is possibly one of the most popular islands to visit on a day trip from Athens. It’s famous for not allowing any motorized vehicles on the island — except the fire and refuse trucks.

It’s not so popular for its beaches, but there are plenty of good swimming platforms and rocks to swim from.

Its main pull is the upmarket harbor with several boutique shops and small hotels, plus a good selection of places to eat and drink. The harbor’s been rebuilt to resemble the architecture of its heyday in the 1800s when it was ruled by the Venetians, and you don’t need to have a vast knowledge of architecture to appreciate the uniqueness of the houses and mansions here.

Due to its relaxed vibe and the fact it’s so aesthetically pleasing, Hydra has attracted many artists, both Greek and international — the most famous being the late Leonard Cohen who bought a home there and penned “Bird on a Wire.”

For a sophisticated Greek island day trip, Hydra is definitely the one you should choose.

Pro Tip: High-speed services to Hydra operate from the Port of Piraeus, and there are about five a day with journey times of just under 2 hours.

With its elegant restored mansions dating to the Venetian era, Spetses has a distinctly vintage feel to it.

The main port of Dapia has several upmarket cafes and bars to relax in, or if it’s swimming you’re after, a visit to the secluded sandy beaches of Agia Marina or Agia Paraskevi is a must. Reach these beaches either by car or by taking the inter-island bus service.

Walking and hiking along the old paths that cut across the island side to side past old chapels and small settlements is another popular activity, especially in the spring and fall when the weather’s cooler.

Spetses is a perfect place for downtime, to come and relax and just be.

Pro Tip: The high-speed ferry from Piraeus takes about 3 hours and about five ferries run each day.

Lastly, we look at the Greek island of Kea. Though not strictly in the Saronic chain of islands, it is still possible to spend a day here.

Also called Tzia, the island is a Cycladic one with houses and churches and traditional farmhouses in earthy tones, not the blue and white of the other Cycladic islands. 

Nature lovers will love it here as there are several rare plant species as well as wild birds and reptiles. 

The capital is Ioulida, a place that bans cars, and the Medieval castle standing guard over the quaint village makes for an interesting visit.

Most of Kea’s beaches are sandy, small, and secluded, so you won‘t have to worry about overcrowding. Fans of walking and hiking will enjoy the inland paths through archaeological ruins such as the Stone Lion, which, according to mythology, was sent down by the jealous gods to ravage the beauty of the island. 

Pro Tip: To get to Kea/Tzia, you take a one-hour ferry from the Port of Lavrion, located just over an hour from the center of Athens. For this reason, an overnight stay is well worth it on this beautiful, verdant island.

If you’re short on time, there is a One Day Cruise that allows you to take in three Greek islands — Hydra, Poros, and Aegina — in one day, and the price includes lunch on board plus Greek music.

She writes for a variety of digital and print travel media including The Telegraph newspaper and various inflight airline magazines including features in European carriers such as Wizz Air and hotel and restaurant reviews for easyJet. Her debut novel, Girl Gone Greek — available from Amazon — has been made into a film script, winning Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2018 London Greek Film Festival and Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2020 Santorini Film Festival.

12 Gorgeous Islands Close to Athens to Visit in 2024

There are dozens of gorgeous islands near Athens that can be reached within just an hour or two’s boat ride from mainland Greece. While places like Santorini and Mykonos are the first islands that pop into people’s minds when they think of Greece, they are far from the only worthy travel destinations. 

Greece is home to literally thousands of islands after all. Many of these, remain relatively unknown to international travellers, and many of them, are conveniently close to Athens. 

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Islands close to Athens are worth considering and reviewing for your Greece itinerary – especially if you are limited on time, or you are basing yourself in the Greek capital and hoping to take short trips out from there.

Islands Close to Athens to Visit in 2024

There are six main island groups in Greece . (The Sporades, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the North Aegean islands, the Ionian islands and the Saronic Gulf). 

The Saronic archipelago is the closest group of islands to Athens and mainland Greece. The closest islands near Athens can be reached in just 45 minutes from here.

The furthest island in this region is Spetses, which can be reached from Athens in 3 hours. Then of course, some of the northern Cyclades islands can be reached easily from Athens, with ferries departing regularly from Athens’ Piraeus and Lavrio ports .  

The 12 stunning islands close to Athens shared here are stunning places that you can sail out to in the morning and then back in Athens for evening drinks.  Of course, if your schedule allows you the time to stay overnight, even better. 

Keep in mind that while the Sporades , the Dodecanese, the North Aegean and the Ionian islands are not difficult to reach from Athens, they require a domestic flight or a long ferry (or both). The Ionian archipelago ( Corfu , Paxos , etc) sits off Greece’s West Coast, just north of the Peloponnese.  

The Sporades and the North Aegean islands sit northeast of the mainland, while the Dodecanese sits to the west, close to Turkey.

Islands less than 3 hours from Athens

The Saronic Gulf islands are less than 3 hours away from Athens and arguably the easiest to reach on a day trip. The great thing about travelling to these islands is that they are wonderful places to visit all year round and are not dependent on the weather being super hot and sunny. 

For instance, Hydra is known for being home to one of the most beautiful ports in all of Greece. Whatever time of year you stop by, you can enjoy eating fresh seafood in a homely, waterfront taverna, visiting the island’s museums, and walking from the port to the local fishing villages. 

Poros is home to an abundance of hiking trails that twist and turn through the natural scenery of the island, leading you past woodlands, remote churches, and fragrant olive groves. A visit here is just as wonderful in spring or autumn as it is during the summer months.

Hydra is a charming Greek island idyll that sits just 90 minutes away from Athens. It is arguably one of the most popular island day trips from Athens but for good reason.

Travelling to Hydra feels like travelling back in time. No vehicles are permitted on the island and people get around on horseback. Hydra port is a labyrinth-like network of narrow, cobbled passageways and gorgeous whitewashed houses and stores. 

Despite the island’s increase in popularity in recent years, Hydra has not become gentrified or overly touristic. Many of the stores around the port sell handmade apparel and stylish resort-wear clothing. 

Most people that visit Hydra do so on a Saronic Gulf day trip. They only stop by the port in the morning for a couple of hours to have breakfast and a coffee, before continuing onwards to the next island. 

This means that if you venture further afield, you can have a lot of beautiful places and hiking trails virtually all to yourself. When it isn’t too hot, you can follow the coastal walking trail that takes you past Hydra port, to the fishing villages of Kamini and Vlychos. 

When you reach Kamini, stop by the lovely family-owned Taverna Christina. This is a farm-to-table concept place whereby the dishes are all prepared using seasonal veggies grown in the tavernas’ own garden, and with fish caught that same day in nearby waters. 

You can also attempt the two-hour roundtrip hike to the 1813 Prophet Elias Monastery. The monastery is perched on the top of Mount Eros, Hydra’s highest peak. From here you can enjoy incredible views across the Saronic.

Spetses 

Elegant Spetses is one of the most upscale islands close to Athens (and arguably in all of Greece). It takes approximately 3 hours to get from Athens to Spetses , which technically sits in the Argolic Gulf. 

4,027 people call Spetses home, with most residents concentrated in the port area. Many jet-set Athenians and affluent international expats have weekend and summer homes in Spetses. 

In Spetses town, you will find many ornate neoclassical mansions and grand stately homes that have been converted into boutique hotels, guesthouses, cocktail bars and restaurants. There are a few points of interest here, such as the old harbour, the Spetses fish market and Bouboulina’s Museum. 

The latter is a grand mansion that once housed Bouboulina, a hero of the Greek war for independence, whose home has been converted into a museum. Spetses, like many other parts of Greece, boasts regional delicacies that cannot really be found elsewhere. 

The local speciality here is the spetsofai – a Greek casserole dish prepared with pork sausages, peppers and tomatoes. Many of the seafront restaurants serve it. 

But for the best of the best, stop by Kapelogiannis mezedopolio – a local institution that has been delighting locals and travellers alike since 1945. By nightfall, go for drinks among a well-heeled crowd at Throubi. 

Renting a moped, a bicycle or an ATV is the best way to get around. (Cars are prohibited here, just like on Hydra, though you will see a few tourist taxis around the port). 

Outside of the town, Spetses is essentially just one big national park, home to many gorgeous secluded beaches, coves and trails.

Aegina 

Aegina is the closest island to Athens and it is just a 40-minute ferry ride away from the Greek mainland. Many Athenians will come here for weekend getaways in the summer when they want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without having to travel too far. 

The island has an interesting and extensive history too. It thrived during the Byzantine era, became a favourite hangout spot for pirates, and was then occupied by the Ottomans. 

In 1821, Aegina became the first temporary capital of Greece, before the honour was moved to Nafplio in 1829 and later, Athens. The mix of architectural styles that you will see on the buildings here points to all of the different civilisations that have occupied the island over the centuries. 

As you can imagine, an island that has passed hands so many times is home to many interesting historical sites and ruins. If you love history, you should not miss the sunbleached remnants of the Temple of Apollo, which is actually much older than the Athens Acropolis. 

Also worthwhile are the Temple of Ellanios Zeus, the ancient city of Paleahora, and the ruins of Kolona.

Agistri 

Agistri is the smallest island in the Saronic archipelago with an area of just 13.4 km². Still, what Agistri lacks in size, it more than makes up for in its natural beauty, hiking trails and coastlines.

The pristine beaches on this little pine-clad island exude desert island vibes. Envisage soft, powdery white sands and crystal-clear aquamarine waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Add Aponissos, Skliri, Chalkiada, Dragonera, Mareza, Skala and Megalochori beaches to your Agistri checklist. You can also consider renting a boat for the day so that you can sail out to some of the lesser-known beaches and coves that cannot be reached on foot.

Poros is one of the nicest islands close to Athens to head to if you are in need of a little rest and relaxation. It is actually made up of two islands that have come together: Sferia and the larger Kalavria.

Poros sits directly across from Lakonia and the Peloponnese region of Greece – separated only by a narrow body of water. For a couple of euros, you can take a wooden boat from the port area and sail across to Galatas on the other side of the bay.

Poros Highlights

• Organise a day trip to Methana and soak in the island’s thermal spas
• Rent a kayak and sail across to the uninhabited island of Daskalio (Teacher’s island)
• Swim off the coast of Monastiri beach
• Visit the clock tower – the most iconic structure in Poros
• Relax at Love Bay and Megalo Neorio

Island hopping tours of islands close to Athens

Saronic Gulf sailing itinerary . If you have a little more time to spare, you can hop from one island to another over the course of a week or so. 

This is easy to do independently (check Ferryscanner to see the latest ferry schedules and prices, and try and book several days before your intended travel dates). If you prefer to do an island-hopping tour that takes a lot of the stress out of figuring out the logistics of how to get from A to B, there are plenty of reputable local companies that offer Saronic Gulf tours.

These tours usually commence from Piraeus port and take you to 3-4 islands in a day. You will typically have an hour or two to explore each island.

While it isn’t enough to get to know anywhere in-depth, it is a nice choice if you are short on time but you want to stop by some Greek islands during your Athens itinerary. A selection of recommended tours is detailed below for your consideration.

Book online in advance to secure your place and avoid disappointment!

Best tours of islands close to Athens

• From Athens: full-day cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra
• Saronic island day cruise with lunch and audio guide
• Argo and Saronic islands cruise with lunch
• Boat tour to Agistri and Aegina with Moni swimming stop

Islands close to Athens that require an overnight stay

The islands below sit a little farther out. Technically you could visit some of them in a day, but it would be a little hurried and not all that pleasant.

The little island of Kea (Tzia in Greek) is the closest island in the Cyclades to Athens. Despite the fact that it is only a couple of hours away from the Greek mainland, it feels a million miles away from the chaos of modern life. 

Few people have heard of Kia on an international scale, and the island remains as one of the last sleepy Greek island idylls. There are just a small handful of settlements on the island, with the capital of Ioulis (Ioulida) being the most lively, as well as arguably the best place to base yourself. 

If you enjoy hiking and the great outdoors, Kea may be a great island getaway destination for you. 

The island has the highest concentration of hiking trails out of all of the Greek islands. There are walking paths here of all kinds of durations and difficulties, to suit travellers of all ages and abilities. 

One popular route is the trail to ancient Karthea, on the southeastern part of the island. From Ioulis, the hike takes about an hour and a half each way.

It leads you past remote woodland churches, farms and coves. When you finally reach Karthea, you are met with the abandoned, overgrown remnants of a town that thrived during the 6th Century BCE. 

Several notable structures await here – including an old amphitheatre, a Temple of Apollo, and a Temple of Athena. If the Karthea hike is a little too challenging for you, you can attempt a shorter walk to Gialiskari beach or Vourkari. 

Kythnos 

Kythnos is a beautiful off the beaten track island in the Cyclades. The island’s name comes from the ancient Greek word “Keftho” which means hidden. 

This is arguably a very fitting name since, well, very few international tourists have even heard of Kythnos! The largest settlement in Kythnos, like the island capitals of many Greek islands, is known as the Chora. 

Kythnos’ Chora is your quintessentially Greek Cycladic town. It is characterised by its whitewashed houses with blue domed roofs, windows and fixtures, and bright pink bougainvillaea flowers that climb up the sides of walls and garden fences. 

With its narrow cobbled streets and passageways that twist and turn to reveal crowded, lively plateias (squares), Kythnos is a photographer’s dream. Since this is one of the least visited islands in the Cyclades, you will see a fraction of the crowds here that you see in nearby Santorini or Mykonos. 

The beaches here are relatively secluded and undisturbed even during the summer. Kolona beach is the most famous on the island and exists in the form of a narrow strip of land that connects Kythnos to the islet of Agios Loukas.

Apokrousi beach is the easiest to reach on foot from the Chora, while Gaidouromantra beach is the most quiet and remote. 

Santorini 

Santorini is one of the most popular islands close to Athens. For a lot of people, it is the entire reason that Greece was on their radar as a travel destination in the first place. 

While Santorini has definitely fallen victim to over-tourism in recent years, you can easily avoid the crowds by travelling here during the shoulder season. You can travel from Athens to Santorini by flight in just 55 minutes, by high-speed boat in 4 hours, or by overnight ferry in 10 hours. 

Fira and Oia are the most popular places to stay on the island and while they both have their charm, Oia has the slight edge. After all, it is here where you can see some of the most spectacular world-famous Santorini sunsets. 

And not to mention, Oia is a little more upscale. You will find the more luxurious hotels and restaurants here, as well as more sophisticated boutique stores, while Fira is a little more casual. 

A must when visiting Santorini for the first time is conquering the Fira to Oia hike. The walking trail takes you past volcanic landscapes that look almost otherworldly.

Along the route, you will pass by the beautiful villages of Fira, Imerovigli, Oia, and Firostefani. You can break up the hike by stopping for coffee, lunch, and snacks at each respective village along the way.  

The ferry route from Athens to Sifnos takes between 2.5 and 5 hours depending on which specific service you choose. If you choose carefully, Sifnos is a perfect place to spend a day or two.

Sifnos is a sleepy, traditional island in the Cyclades that is famous for its whitewashed houses, pristine beaches, friendly locals, and quaint Orthodox chapels.

Not only that but Sifnos is rumoured to boast some of the best gastronomy in the region. Venture here to take cooking classes or sample Greek dishes that are quite unlike anything you will find elsewhere.

Sifnos Highlights

• Visit Kastro village and enjoy the spectacular panoramas it boasts over the Aegean sea
• Enjoy evening cocktails in the charming bars of Apollonia village
• Hike to the 16th-century monastery of Panagia Chrissopigi
• Enjoy a picnic on the shores of Vathi, Platis Gialos, and Kamares beaches
• Learn about the island’s history at the Acropolis of Agios Andreas

The beautiful island of Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades. Unfortunately, Naxos is often overshadowed by the neighbouring islands of Santorini and Mykonos. However, it is just as deserving of your time. Naxos can be reached within 5 hours of sailing from Piraeus port, or 5 hours from Rafina. 

Opportunities for both hiking and historical sightseeing are plentiful at Naxos. Here you also have the added bonus of the fact that there are no crowds and tourists!

Outdoor enthusiasts can try their hand at completing the hiking trails at Mount Zeas – the tallest mountain in the Cyclades. Many interesting ruins are scattered around the island, including an array of excellently-preserved temples that date back to the 6th century BC. 

If you are interested in snorkelling and diving, you will find a paradise in Naxos. The waters that surround the island boast incredible vibrant coral reefs and cerulean waters that conceal fascinating historical remnants beneath the surface.

As an example, diving at Naxos reveals the wrecks of wartime seaplanes and torpedo bombers. 

Naxos Highlights

• Go kitesurfing on the beaches of Plaka, Laguna and Mikri Vigla
• Hike to the peak of Mount Zeas
• Watch an old movie beneath the stars at the Naxos open-air cinema
• Take a tour to Delos and Amorgos islands from Naxos
• Take a cooking workshop and learn to cook like a local

Mykonos 

Mykonos, like Santorini, is one of the most popular Cycladic islands. The island is synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the idea of living the high life. Mykonos is also known for its raucous nightlife scene, and its countless upscale bars and clubs.

That said, you don’t have to be a party animal to enjoy Mykonos. This picturesque little spot has a little something for everyone. 

The windmills at Chora are perhaps the landmark of Mykonos. Perched atop a hill, they offer incredible views over Mykonos island and out to sea.

For dinner and evening cocktails in an elegant setting, head to Little Venice. This area is a promenade of stilted, colourful houses that seemingly float in the waters, just like in Venice. 

It takes approximately four and a half hours to get from Athens to Mykonos. Alternatively, you can fly, and this journey takes just 35 minutes. 

Mykonos Highlights

• Sample the glamorous Mykonos nightlife and party until the early morning
• Visit the Kato Myloi ( Lower Windmills) that overlook the sea
• Stroll around Mykonos old town and the old port area
• Search for the famous churches of Panagia Paraportiani and Agios Nikolaos in Chora
• Stop by the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera

Syros is a breathtaking island in South Aegean. It somehow manages to be simultaneously glamorous and cosmopolitan, and historic and traditional.

Syros is known as the ‘Lady of the Cyclades’ and the ‘Nymph of the Aegean Sea’.The island is small but it is actually home to one of the largest populations in the Cyclades.

Despite that, it exudes a small-town feel and an air of tranquillity. The island remains relatively off the beaten path among international tourists. It takes between 2 and 4 hours to reach Syros from Athens depending on which ferry service you choose.

Syros Highlights

• Visit the gorgeous 13th-century Venetian settlement of Upper Syros
• Admire the views from the hilltop Roman Catholic cathedral of Agios Giorgios
• Check out the stunning neoclassical architecture in Ermoupoli
• Rent a boat, swim and snorkel in the translucent waters of hidden coves
• Relax on the shores of Armeos and Galissas beaches

Understanding Athens’ Ports 

There are only a handful of Greek islands that have airports and unfortunately, most of the islands close to Athens do not. (That is, with the exception of Santorini and Mykonos.)

So, the easiest way to get to most of the islands near Athens is to do so via ferry or as part of an organised day tour. The Greek capital has three ports in total and they all serve the islands close to Athens.

Namely, these are Piraeus , Lavrio and Rafina . Most of the time, it makes sense to travel from Piraeus port, although you may occasionally find services from Lavrio to Kea and some of the smaller Cyclades islands.

Piraeus Port

Piraeus is the city’s main port and the largest passenger port in all of Europe. It is just 90 minutes away from Athens airport and less than an hour away from central Athens and Syntagma Square .

To access most of the islands close to Athens, you will depart from the port at Piraeus. It is the most convenient port for departures to the Dodecanese, the Saronic, the North Aegean, Crete, and Kythira.

From Central Athens and the Airport, you can take the X96 bus which stops right outside the port.

Similarly, Athens metro line 1 (green line) connects Monastiraki with Piraeus. It is important to note that since this is Athens’s main port, Piraeus can get extremely busy and crowded.

This is particularly true during the Greek summer months . You should try to purchase all of your ferry tickets online in advance if you can.

Try to arrive at the port at least an hour before your scheduled departure. There are places to store your luggage at the port if you do so wish.

Check with the port staff to determine which gate your ferry will depart from.

Rafina Port

Athens is also home to Rafina port. This is a little farther out of the city and slightly trickier to get to.

Rafina serves a number of commercial routes, particularly in the Cyclades. However, you will also find quaint Greek fishing boats and private yachts docked in the bay here. 

Rafina is situated on the eastern side of the Attica region some 40km away from central Athens. It is advisable to avoid travelling from this port if you can. The only exception is perhaps if you have a car and you will be driving to Rafina. Similarly, if you are headed straight from Athens airport to the islands, you may find it easier to go directly to Rafina than to trek through the city to get to Piraeus.

Many departures to Mykonos leave from here. Rafina port services routes to Amorgos, Andros, Evia, Ios, Koufounisia, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Syros, and Tinos.

Additional routes may be added or amended each year, dependent on the season. Rafina is much smaller than Piraeus port. However, you should still try and arrive at the port plenty of time before your ferry departs, especially if you need to pick up tickets at the port office. There are several great coffee shops and tavernas by the sea where you can stop for a quick drink/snack before you head off.

A KTEL bus runs from Central Athens to Rafina. It departs regularly from Pedion tou Areos and costs €3.

Lavrio Port

Lavrio is located 60km away from Athens and 30km away from Eleftherios Venizelos airport respectively. It is situated in the southern part of Attica close to Cape Sounion .

For convenience, if you see a ferry service departing from Lavrio, it is worth checking to see if it departs from Piraeus or Rafina first. However, due to Lavrios’s location, some islands in the North Aegean and the Cyclades can be reached from here in the shortest amount of time.

For instance, it takes just one hour to get to Kea, and only 2.5 hours to reach Kythnos from Lavrio. Public transport in Greece is excellent and it is relatively easy (if time-consuming) to get to Lavrio by bus.

KTEL Attikis operate a bus from Pedion tou Areos to Lavrio that departs every 2 hours. The journey takes approximately an hour and 40 minutes and a ticket costs €6.

FAQs about the best islands close to Athens to visit 

Are you still not sure which islands close to Athens to include in your itinerary? Do you still have any more questions or concerns? 

Hopefully, you will find the answers you are looking for below. Otherwise, you are more than welcome to reach out!

What is the best and closest island to Athens?

Aegina is the closest island to Athens. However, it isn’t necessarily the most appealing if you have a limited amount of time and you can only choose one of the islands close to Athens to visit.

Hydra, Agistri, Poros and Spetses are also very easy to get to. Of all of these, your best option would be Hydra, if you are seeking out culture, old-fashioned villages, coastal walking trails and nature. 

If you are looking for luxury and glamour, or simply secluded beaches with no one on them, then the best and closest island to Athens for you would be Spetses. 

What is the easiest island to get to from Athens?

All of the islands in the Saronic Gulf are relatively easy to get to from Athens. You can reach them in between 40-150 minutes, depending on the specific island. 

What islands can you see from Athens?

You can see the Saronic islands from the hills and coastlines of Athens on a clear day. You may see them when you look out across the water from Athenian Riviera beach towns such as Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni .

If you climb up to Mount Lycabettus , Filopappou Hill , or any of the other seven hills of Athens on a clear day, you will be able to see the islands glistening on the horizon from up there too. 

Which Greek island is closest to Athens?

Aegina is the closest island to Athens. It is situated 53km from the Greek capital and is accessible via a 40-minute ferry ride from Piraeus port.

Final thoughts on visiting islands close to Athens

Do you have any further questions about these islands close to Athens? Alternatively, do you need help planning a Greece travel itinerary in general?

I’ve been living in Athens for the last four and a half years. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.

Feel free to reach out and I’ll get back to you ASAP. Safe travels!

Geia sou! Melissa xo

highheelsandabackpack

Hi Melissa, And thanks for all the helpful advice. I am looking for a more local and less touristy island that is accessible by a daily ferry from Piraeus. For my sister and myself. I’m wanting to stay for 5 nights, so an island with different beaches and villages would be good and where I can rent a car possibly. As I have leg issues I don’t want to stay where its all hills and steps in the town. We are happy to spend decent money for a 4 star hotel with pool near the water. I have already looked at Kythnos but the ferry doesn’t run from Piraeus daily. I don’t want to schlep to Rafina. We need to leave Piraeus on a Friday and return there the following Wednesday. Many thanks for any help you can give !

Melissa, My wife and I want to visit both Hydra and Poros, staying a day or so in both. We will be leaving and returning via Athens. Which island is closest to Athens and is there a preferred sequence.

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9 of the best day trips from Athens

Feb 10, 2024 • 7 min read

From Nafplio to Hydra, here are the best day trips from Athens © margouillat photo/ Shutterstock

A world-class city, Athens  is crammed with attractions and entertainment that can fill weeks of any visitor's time.

But a number of other outstanding destinations are located within easy reach of the Greek capital – whether you travel by public transportation , by boat or with your own wheels. From ancient ruins to island beaches, these day trips from Athens are well worth the journey.

1. Visit the picturesque former capital, Nafplio

Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nafplio , the first capital of modern Greece, is one of the prettiest towns in the country, with splendid Venetian and neoclassical architecture and fortresses like the hilltop Palamidi (a famous 999-step climb) or Bourtzi (a small fortified islet in the harbor). Plenty of elegant boutique hotels, tasteful shops and small restaurants hidden in narrow alleys make Nafplio a hugely popular destination for a day hop or a longer stay.

Further south is the posh resort of Porto Heli, where Greek and international jet-setters own luxurious villas and mansions. The region also has some agreeable sandy beaches and numerous local wineries, many open to the public.

How to get to Nafplio from Athens: By car, the journey is around one hour and 45 minutes. The intercity bus from Athens Kifissos station to Nafplio takes two hours and 10 minutes.

2. Aegina is the perfect Greek island getaway

Travel time: 40 minutes / 1 hour 15 minutes

A trip to Aegina is the quickest way to find yourself on an island if you're staying in Athens. The Saronic Gulf island boasts a perfect combination of important ancient ruins, attractive sandy beaches, charming neoclassical architecture and local delicacies like the internationally renowned local pistachio variety.

Outside the picturesque Aegina Town, the Temple of Aphaia , which is among the country's top ancient sites, and the villages of Agia Marina and Perdika are also worth a visit. The huge Orthodox church of Agios Nektarios is a popular pilgrimage destination among both Greek and foreign visitors. Avoid the summer weekends if you can, as the island gets packed with Athenians escaping the city heat.

How to get to Aegina from Athens:  Take the ferry (one hour and 15 minutes) or the hydrofoil (40 minutes) from the harbor of  Piraeus . Departures are frequent, and there's no need to book in advance.

3. Soak up the mythology at Delphi

Travel time: 3 hours

It might be on the long side for a day trip, but spending time in beautiful Delphi  is worth the journey. Myths, history and spectacular mountains combine here – in Greek mythology, the two eagles released by Zeus met there, determining the Navel (or center) of the World. The Sanctuary of Apollo , built in the 7th century BCE, was a revered ancient oracle and home to Pythia, the priestess who mumbled her notoriously ambiguous answers on important or everyday matters to visitors from every walk of life.

A stadium high on the hill, an ancient theater and Tholos (a circular temple, probably the most photographed landmark of the site), together with a small but significant museum , keep attracting modern-day crowds. The idyllic clifftop village on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, overlooking the endless olive groves that surround the sanctuary, is buzzing with taverns and souvenir shops catering to day trippers.

How to get to Delphi from Athens:  Take the KTEL intercity bus  from Athens Liosion station to Delphi. Travel time is around three hours.

4. Walk in the footsteps of ancients in Corinthia

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Within the modern village of Corinthia loom the extensive yet compact ruins of this ancient (mostly Roman) city. Home to legendary Jason of the Argonauts, stealer of the Golden Fleece, the streets of Ancient Corinth were once trodden by the likes of Pausanias, Roman travelers, and St Paul, who taught the gospel of Christ here.

Follow in their footsteps by visiting the Temple of Apollo, the Peribolos of Apollo, the ancient theater and other highlights. The excellent on-site museum puts everything into context.

How to get to Ancient Corinth from Athens: Intercity buses depart hourly from Athens Kifissos station, arriving at the Korinthos bus station in Corinth City, taking about one hour. From here, buses go to Ancient Corinth (20 minutes).

5. Hit the hiking trails of Mt Parnitha National Park

Travel time: 1 hour

Mt Parnitha, about 25km (15.5 miles) north of Athens, comprises a number of smaller peaks, the highest of which is Karavola (1413m/4636ft), tall enough to get snow in winter. There are many caves and much wildlife, including red deer, and the park is crisscrossed by hiking trails, with two large, full-featured hiking lodges. The area is popular for mountain biking as well.

The easiest way to explore is on the path (about a 45-minute walk) through Tatoi, the 40-sq-km (15-sq-mile) grounds of the former summer palace (closed); follow Tatoi Rd out of Varibobi and look for a small trail sign on the right.

How to get to Mt Parnitha National Park from Athens: Take the Metro's Green Line (Line 1) north to Nea Ionia, then take bus 724 to Thrakomakedónes. You can also continue on bus 724 to the Parnitha Funitel, which takes visitors to the top of the mountain.

6. Imagine the sound of Homer at the World Heritage-listed Mycenae

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

On a hilltop backed by powerful mountains stand the somber and mighty ruins of Ancient Mycenae, home of the legendary Agamemnon. For four centuries in the 2nd millennium BCE, this kingdom was the most powerful in Greece, holding sway over the Argolid and influencing other Mycenaean cities.

World Heritage–listed Mycenae is synonymous with the names Homer and Schliemann. In the 9th century BCE, Homer told in his epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey , of "well-built Mycenae, rich in gold." These poems were, until the 19th century, regarded as no more than gripping and beautiful legends. But in the 1870s, the amateur archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann (1822–90), despite derision from professionals, struck gold, first at Troy and then at Mycenae.

Before exploring the archaeological site, head into the Ancient Mycenae Museum for context.

How to get to Ancient Mycenae from Athens: Daily KTEL intercity buses  depart from Athens to Fichti, the nearest town to Ancient Mycenae, on the Nafplio route.

7. Wander the car-free island of Hydra

Travel time: Almost 2 hours

Gorgeous Hydra is a rocky island with a rich history and spectacular, well-preserved stone mansions that once belonged to great naval families and captains of the Greek Revolution. The town is built on the hillside around a stunning harbor; it has a tranquil allure like no other Greek island, as it's completely car-free. Numerous small museums, art galleries and boutique hotels, together with the ever-present yachts docked in the harbor, contribute to its classy aura and more than make up for the lack of beaches.

How to get to Hydra from Athens:  Hydrofoils from the harbor of Piraeus take from one hour and 40 minutes to two hours. Buy tickets online  in advance.

8. Escape to the seaside restaurants of Halkida

Travel time: 30 minutes

Built on the channel that separates the island of Evia from the mainland, and famous for the six-hourly change in the direction of the water's flow, Halkida can't claim the title of tourist magnet by any means. Nevertheless, it's a pleasant seaside town worth visiting to enjoy a relaxing break from a hectic city-sightseeing itinerary and for a taste of Greek small-town life. There are also plenty of good, clean beaches nearby, as well as countless seaside restaurants where you'll enjoy extremely fresh seafood, with far more variety than you'll see in Athens.

How to get to Halkida from Athens:  Halkida is an hour's drive from Athens via the main motorway to Thessaloniki. It's also accessible by intercity bus from Athens terminal station or by train from Athens' central station.

9. Watch the sunset at Cape Sounion

Travel time: 2 hours (Cape Sounion), 45 minutes (Marathon)

You can easily spend a whole day at either of these close-by destinations, but if your schedule is tight, they both make perfect half-day trips. Cape Sounion, at the southernmost tip of Attica, is where the splendid Temple of Poseidon is located – this is one of the best spots around Athens to savor a gorgeous sunset. It can be combined with lunch or dinner at one of the many fish taverns in the nearby working-class town of Lavrio.

Northeast of Athens, Marathon is the site of one of the greatest battles in history and the place where the modern Athens Marathon commences, following the steps of Pheidippides, the legendary ancient courier who first ran the glorious route. The archaeological museum , the tomb of Athenians fallen in the battle, and the lake with its dam are the main attractions of the area.

How to get to Cape Sounion or Marathon from Athens: Cape Sounion is a two-hour bus ride from Athens, and Marathon is a 45-minute drive. Consider taking a taxi if you'd prefer not to drive yourself.

This article was first published Jul 2, 2019 and updated Feb 10, 2024.

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5 Best Greek Islands to visit from Athens

Yippee! The summer season has finally opened up in Greece, which means it’s time to plan your dreamy Greek vacation around the islands. If you haven’t decided which islands you want to visit yet, then I have 5 great ideas for the best Greek islands to visit from Athens !

Don’t know what to choose? You can easily combine a visit to several Greek islands during your vacation in Greece, thanks to the excellent ferry connection between them.

Most likely you will arrive at the international airport of Athens from where your vacation in Greece will begin. There are two options. You can book a connecting flight from Athens airport to one of the islands or relax for a couple of days in Athens and then get the ferry to the islands .

Top 5 Best Greek Islands to Visit from Athens

#1 santorini.

Santorini is one of the most romantic and attractive destinations to spend your holidays. This year you have the opportunity to enjoy your vacation on the island without crowds of tourists and this makes Santorini even more alluring to visit.

Locals consider Santorini the “Greek pearl”. Historians and philosophers claim that Santorini could be the “Lost Atlantis,” which remains a mystery of history. Undoubtedly, the island is very beautiful and mysterious. Fira and Oia are two of the most fabulously beautiful cities in the world located on the top of the crater of the volcano. What will catch your attention here is a picturesque view of the snow-white city of Fira, which opens from the sea. Just imagine this picture: the blue domes of the churches are illuminated by the rays of the sun, and tiny houses and luxury hotels in exclusively white and blue tones are randomly located on the side of a cliff. By the way, traditional transport on the island is a donkey.

Mykonos is no less popular holiday destination than Santorini. Here you will find the endless sandy beaches, bohemian life, and non-stop parties.

The capital of the island – Chora is a stunningly picturesque Cycladic city with labyrinths of small streets and snowy alleys, houses, and churches surrounding the harbor. Despite the fact that here there are a lot of shops, boutiques, art galleries, cafes, stylish bars, and restaurants, the capital has not lost its identity. Also, Mykonos is famous for the large number of gorgeous beaches that receive the EU blue flag every year – the highest award for cleanliness and environmental friendliness. The beaches of Mykonos are covered mainly with pebbles or sand. The best of them are those located on the south coast – less windy part of the island.

Lying between Africa and Europe, Crete is the largest and most southern island of Greece. Crete meets the expectations of all tourists – both those who dream of a quiet, relaxing holiday and those who dream of glamorous vacation.

READ ALSO : “ Top Destinations for Family Vacation in Greece”

The best beaches and resorts of Crete are located on the north coast. There is more greenery, and the climate is milder – unlike the sultry southern coast. One of the most famous resorts in Crete is the romantic Chania with wide sandy beaches. Luxurious yachts are anchored in her harbor, and local fishermen are dry nets nearby. The small fishing village of Bali , famous for its sandy coves of stunning beauty, is ideal for a secluded and family holiday. European beau monde and Hollywood stars prefer Elounda – the most fashionable resort of Crete with golf courses, expensive spas, helipads, and amazing views of the Mirabello Bay.

Paros, the third-largest island of the Cyclades in Greece, in recent years has turned into a modern tourist center. The southern half of the island, which was always uninhabited, is now intensively built up with tourist facilities.

READ ALSO: “ TOP 5 Honeymoon Destinations in Greece “.

The Azure Sea, the Cycladic white houses, fish taverns, and busy nightlife attract tourists from all over the world. Paros, despite its size, is able to offer a whole kaleidoscope of attractions for a rich and unforgettable summer vacation. I recommend starting your vacation in Paros with a visit to Naoussa – one of the most beautiful corners of the island with narrow streets starting from the port, and small snow-white churches with blue-domed roofs.

Naxos is the largest tourist island in the Cycladic group with high mountain peaks, medieval castles, Byzantine churches and spacious sandy beaches.

Recently, the island has experienced a real touristic “boom” – thousands of tourists visit Naxos to relax, try local cheese and wine, look at the mines where marble is mined, and taste the local citrus liqueur based on citron. On Naxos, you will find excellent sandy beaches with taverns, bars, and other amenities, such as Agios Georgios beach , which, incidentally, is very small and perfect for families with children.

If you want to make your holidays in Greece more exciting and unforgettable, combine a visit to several islands with or without Athens. The best Greek Islands Vacation itineraries are:

• Athens – Mykonos – Santorini ( 7 nights)
• Athens – Mykonos – Santorini – Crete ( 10 nights)
• Mykonos – Santorini ( 4 nights)
• Athens – Santorini – Mykonos (6 nights)
• Athens – Crete: Chania & Heraklion (8 nights)
• 3 Day Mykonos Trip ( 2 nights)
• 2 Day Paros Tour ( 1 night)
• 2 Day Naxos Tour (1 night)

Not sure where to start and book your summer vacation in Greek islands? Contact the local tour operator – Antelope Travel . They will not only offer you the most attractive Greece vacation packages but will also develop your Greek holidays to the smallest details .

Rentagile.com provides reliable and highly affordable car rental services throughout Greece. Just select a location and they will find the best car rental deals for you.

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Book Travel Insurance

Booking of travel insurance is the same integral part of every trip, as booking air tickets with accommodation.  You never know when a flight may be canceled or you need medical care in a foreign country. Do you think it is expensive to get travel insurance? Not at all! Just check how affordable this on World Nomads Insurance website…and travel SAFE!

Book Air Tickets

Skyscanner.com   is my leader in finding flights. It compares thousands of routes and providers to find the best deals.  I really love its feature the “cheapest month”, and you can also compare the prices every single day of the month in order to find the cheapest one.

Rentagile.com is reliable and highly affordable car rental services throughout Greece. Just select a location and they will find the best car rental deals for you.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com  is currently the most dynamically developed search engine where you can find not only hotels, but also hostels, apartments, and flats to rent.  According to my personal experience, it has competitive prices and a very convenient search system. I like that on Booking you can find many refundable rates, book your stay without a credit card and even pay on the spot.

Looking for Additional Travel Resources?

Check my Travel Resources page to find the best deals on booking ferries, trains and other companies that will make your travel more comfortable and pleasant.

This is not a sponsored post. All the websites and companies I have included here are based on my personal travel experiences. Please note that some of these links contain my personal affiliate links, and with no extra cost to you.  I may earn a small commission that helps me run this website and helps me share my adventures and travel tips which can help you.

Limitlesstravelling_withK

Hi, I am Katerina, a multinational girl who currently lives in Athens, Greece. From a very young age, I can remember myself involved and surround by tourist activities, and it became a passion of my life.

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I love Greece! Can’t wait to visit, and your blog posts about the best places to visit in Greece are giving me life!

Thank you so much! It is my pleasure! I hope we can safely travel again very soon!

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Island Day Trips From Athens

Athens is the capital of Greece, with many sights to see, places to explore, and a rich history to unravel. However, there are also many islands near the Attica region, ideal for daily trips from Athens.

Travelers and locals prefer hopping on a ferry or small catamaran to enjoy a different atmosphere of the Saronic (but not only) islands with their distinct architecture and wonderful traditions. Daily excursions from Athens to the islands are available all year round and are totally worth it. Easter is also a great holiday to visit them and get a taste of the local Easter culture.

You can find the perfect escapade for a daily island trip or your weekend getaway. Here’s a list of the best island day trips from Athens.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

How to get from Athens to Hydra

How to get to poros, how to get from athens to aegina, how to get to agistri, how to get from athens to spetses, the best island day trips from athens.

Hydra is one of the most popular choices for island day trips from Athens. It has a romantic atmosphere and quietness thanks to the fact that no cars or vehicles are allowed on the island. The island has a rich history dating back from the period of the resistance of 1821 against the Ottoman Empire. It is an island worth visiting!

While in Hydra, you should surely visit the legendary Bastions near the port and take photos of them. Afterward, head to the old neighborhoods in Hydra town and stroll around the alleys to find souvenir shops, local delicacies, and many spots to relax.

To learn more about its rich history, visit the renowned Historical Archive Museum of Hydra alone or on a guided tour, and head toward the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum to get a taste of Christian Orthodox history.

If the weather permits, you can swim at the wonderful pebbly beach of Bísti, which is organized and offers all the amenities possible. Otherwise, go to the historical beach of Mandraki. If you are the adventurous type, swim at Agios Nikolaos, which is a remote sandy beach only accessible by sea.

You can get there from Athens in less than 2 hours by ferry. There are usually seven daily crossings to Hydra from the port of Piraeus, but that depends on the season.  The earliest ferry departs at 8:00 and the latest at 22:00. The line is mostly operated by Blue Star Ferries and Alpha Lines. Ticket prices start at 30.50 Euros.

Click here for more information on the ferry schedule and to book your tickets.

Situated further away, Poros is still on the list of the best island day trips from Athens. It is a green island with pine forests that combines amazing landscapes of untouched nature and a cosmopolitan, ‘outgoing’ character thanks to its nightlife.

Once in Poros, you have a lot of things to tick off your bucket list. First, begin with a stroll around the picturesque ‘sokakia’ alleyways to get to know the island and the local people. You can also go visit the famous Clock of Poros. Catch the sunset at a lovely spot on the island and marvel at the beautiful colors.

If you’re a fan of culture and history, head to the 6th century BC Temple of Poseidon or go to the Archaeological Museum of Poros for ancient history findings and the Folklore Museum for the traditions and customs of Poros. To swim and bask in the sun, head to Askeli Beach, where you can also find watersports, or go to Love Bay, organized heaven among thick pines.

You can hop on a ferry to Poros from the port of Piraeus. There are daily crossings all year round with Blue Star Ferries, Alpha Lines, and Saronic Ferries. The crossing lasts 1 hour and 33 minutes. The earliest ferry departs from the port of Piraeus at 8:00, and the latest at 21:30. Ticket prices start from 10.50 Euros for a single traveler, but there are also options for vehicle transportation. F.

You can also get there by crossing the small sea strip opposite Poros from the port of Galatas. The crossing lasts only 10 minutes. Schedules vary according to season, weather, and availability.

Aegina is another Saronic island, cosmopolitan in character and ideal for a daily trip from Athens. There, you can try the world-famous local nuts and stroll around to marvel at its distinct architecture.

While in Aegina, you can walk around the Old Town, also known as Palaiochora, and discover many hidden gems. To find out more about the island’s history, you can also visit Christos Kapralos Museum. There are also some archaeological sites of great importance, such as the imposing Temple of Aphaia and the prehistoric site of Kolona.

To enjoy the island’s atmosphere, you can also rent a bike and then ride through the port of Perdika with its picturesque maze of alleys, turquoise waters, and beautiful surrounding cliffs.

Don’t forget to head to Agios Nektarios church, dedicated to the patron saint of Aegina, which is another important landmark.

Aegina is just 40 minutes to 1 hour from the port of Piraeus. You can catch a ferry on a daily basis all year round. Some ferries offer vehicle transportation for those who wish to explore more. The earliest ferry departs at 7:20 and the latest at 20:30. The line is mostly operated by Saronic Ferries and Blue Star Ferries, and you can find tickets starting at 9.50 Euros per person.

Agistri is a small islet where stunning hills of pine forests meet the crystal-clear waters. It is an island ideal for naturists and off-the-grid travelers, as it is a famous free camping spot in the community.

To get to know the island, stroll around Skala, the main port town, and eat at traditional taverns. In Angistri, you can also enjoy the tranquility and clear waters. First, don’t forget to dive into the endless turquoise of Chalikiada Beach, totally unorganized and virgin.

Alternatively, go for a drink at Dragonera Beach to lounge on the sunbeds. There’s also the option of Aponnisos, which is a stunning, private beach that has an entrance fee of 5 Euros. There, you can marvel at the seabed with some snorkeling.

It is located less than an hour away from Athens. You can hop on a flying dolphin from the port of Piraeus and reach your destination easily. The line is operated by Aegean Flying Dolphins, Saronic Ferries, and Blue Star Ferries. You can find crossings every day, with the earliest ferry departing at 7:50 and the latest at 22:10.

Another island day trip from Athens not to miss is Spetses Island. You can explore a quaint small island with a long history and contribution to the Greek War of Independence in 1821.

Spetses has a picturesque harbor with its old-fashioned character. You can get a taste by strolling around, marveling at the wonderful sunset from the Lighthouse at the end of the old harbor, or hopping on a horse carriage to go back in time.

You can even see the houses of heroes from the War of Independence, which remain intact, now turned into museums of Greek history. Get to know all about it by visiting the Spetses Museum in the mansion of Chatzigianni-Mexi, and go to Bouboulina Museum, inside the very house of this War of Independence heroine.

If you wish to enjoy nature, head to Agia Paraskevi Beach or Agia Marina Beach for sunbathing and lounging at the beach bars. You can also go to Agioi Anargyroi beach, where there is a boat to take you to the famous Bekiris Cave with its stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

You can get there in about 2 hours from Athens from the port of Piraeus, where you can find up to 5 crossings daily. There are daily crossings operated from the port of Piraeus by Alpha Lines and Blue Star Ferries. The earliest ferry to Spetses departs at 8:00 and the latest at 10:00 p.m. There are tickets to Spetses for 38.50 Euros.

You can even go to Mykonos for an island daily trip from Athens! You heard that right! There is an available guided tour to the most known island in Greece. You get to explore the beauty of the quaint Mykonos town within a day.

The guided tour offers pick-up services from your hotel. From the Port of Rafina, you hop on a fast-speed ferry to reach Mykonos and go on an hour-long walk around Mykonos town with the iconic white-washed houses and cobblestone alleyways.

You also see the famous windmills and take amazing photos. Next, you go to the Matoyiannia neighborhood, where you can find boutiques and high-class shops for shopping. You have a few hours free to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or traditional tavern.

Click here for more information and book your day trip from Athens.

Poros, Hydra Aegina day cruise

You can also go on a guided daily cruise from Athens to Poros, Hydra, and Aegina- all in one! Enjoy the pristine nature of the three islands on a trip that lasts about 11 hours, starting from the old port in Faliro.

You get to explore Hydra first, where you can stroll around the cobblestoned alleys or go swimming if you wish. There, you can also pay an extra fee to go on a guided tour of the most important landmarks, including the traditional houses of Hydra.

The next stop is Poros Island, with its lush vegetation. Here, you can walk around or eat at a traditional tavern. Last but not least comes Aegina, where you can explore on your own or go on an optional bus tour to the stunning Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of Agios Nektarios.

During the cruise, you can enjoy a buffet with full Mediterranean meals or grab a drink at the bar. There is live music on board for relaxing or dancing.

Click here for more information and to book your day cruise to 3 islands.

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8 Best Island Day Trips From Athens In 2024

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 43 mins read
• Post last modified: January 26, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Greek islands are magical . No matter whether you have a day or 2 weeks. When you’re in Greece, I think you have to visit at least one island . It’s the best way to enjoy the beauty and experience Greek traditions.

I visited Greece and many Greek islands several times . Sometimes, I went on a solo trip , and many years, I guided groups of travelers from the US . Everyone always loves the Greek Islands. So, if you’re in Athens and only have a day to visit one, I’ve compiled a list of the best island day trips from my experience so you can visit at least one.

Let’s enjoy the Greek islands together!

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

List Of The Best Island Day Trips From Athens

1. NAXOS 2. MYKONOS 3. POROS 4. HYDRA 5. SYROS 6. SANTORINI 7. SIFNOS 8. MILOS

Map Of The Greek Islands To Visit From Athens

Here is a map of the Greek islands I recommend visiting on a day trip from Athens.

Welcome to Naxos, the  biggest of the Cyclades islands . The  Greek god Zeus  was raised here as a child in a cave below the highest mountain,  Mount Zas , called Mount Zeus, as it’s mentioned in Greek mythology. 

It’s also the greenest  and most fertile island , with growing agriculture producing many local goods. The most popular ones are potatoes, cheese, and  Kitron lemon liqueur .

While visiting, you can enjoy its  beautiful beaches ,  traditional villages , delicious food, kite surfing, hiking, and  archaeological sites . One of the most famous is the  Great Gate , a temple originally built and dedicated to the  Greek god Apolo . Afterward, you can head to the  Portara , the Castle of Naxos.

As for the beaches, I recommend visiting  Plaka, Mikri Vigla, or Agia Anna Beach.

Naxos is as beautiful as Mykonos and Santorini but  less crowded  and  more authentic . So, it’s the place to be if you want to avoid crowds.

Sightseeing In Naxos

🔆 Guided Tour With All Naxos Highlights 🔆 Cooking Class In A Local Tavern 🔆 Chora city 🔆 Portara – Temple of Apolo 🔆 Mount Zas 🔆 Apiranthos (flower village) 🔆 Apano Kastro – ancient castle 🔆 Vallindras distillery – taste Kitron liquer

How To Get To Naxos From Athens

The  fastest ferry  from Athens to Naxos is the Blue Star Ferries, takes about  3 hours and 20 minutes .

The  last ferry from Naxos to Athens  is usually around 6 pm. Alternatively, there is also an  overnight ferry  that leaves around 10:30 pm and is cheaper. You’ll then return to Athens around 5 am the next day.

You can also  fly to Naxos , which will take only  40 minutes . However, it’s slightly more expensive.

PRO TIP: If you don’t mind the price, fly there in the morning, and take a ferry back to Athens in the evening.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Naxos via FerryScanner here.

Mykonos is everything you imagine a Greek island to be.  White buildings  with  blue roofs , tiny pebble streets in the old town,  great beaches , and stunning views. Mykonos has it all.

Any guesses why Mykonos has almost all houses white and blue? It’s not an accident. You might already know that  white houses   remain cool  during  hot summer months . It’s also the reason for  casas blancas  in Spain. But why blue?

Because the island has a set color code, which comes from the past.  Sailors  used to paint their doors and roofs  blue ,  farmers in green , and  everybody else used red .

Mykonos was a rather  poor island , and its only resource was  agriculture . So you’ll also see many  donkeys . It was the  main form of transport  back in those times.

You can explore its  Chora windmills  or local monasteries. Afterward, head to  Elias Beach  and enjoy the vibes.

Mykonos also offers  one of the best nightlife experiences in Greece , so stay for the night if you’re into it.

Sightseeing In Mykonos

🔆 Mykonos Guided Tour 🔆 Little Venice neighborhood 🔆 Chora windmills 🔆 Monastery of Panagia Tourliani 🔆 Panagia Paraportiani Church 🔆 Beaches – Kapari, Agios Sostis, Ornos, Lia, Paradise Beach 🔆 Cape Armenistis with its lighthouse

How To Get To Mykonos From Athens

You can get to Mykonos by  ferry  from Athens within  2 hours & 30 minutes . One of the companies that operate this route is, for example,  Superexpress  or  Worldchampion Jet .

Flights from Athens to Mykonos depart around 6 am, and you’ll be on Mykonos island in  50 minutes .

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Mykonos via FerryScanner here.

Poros is another charming, rather small island close to the  Peloponnese peninsula . It’s a great option if you just want to  chill on a beach  and experience a typical Greek atmosphere with its seaside town center, cafes, and bars. I recommend renting a bike, riding on the island for some  nice views , and getting to nice beaches and the famous  Love Bay .

The island is believed to be the  home of Poseidon , the Greek god of the Sea. You can visit its sanctuary on the hill on foot.

👉 PRO TIP: If you’re a seafood lover like me, have lunch in the Poseidon Restaurant . The food is delicious, and I always come back to enjoy the seafood dishes here.

Sightseeing In Poros

🔆 Poseidon temple 🔆 Love Bay 🔆 Clock Tower in town center 🔆 Monastiri beach – most beautiful one 🔆 Askeli beach

How To Get To Poros From Athens

Poros is  the closest to Athens  on this list. You’ll take the  Flyingcat speed ferry , and just within  55 minutes , you’ll be on Poros island. It’s my favorite day trip from Athens because it’s fast to get there, and the island is small, so you can do many things within a day.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Poros via FerryScanner here.

Guided Tour Of Poros & Hydra & Aegina

Join this guided tour with a local guide , on which you’ll visit 3 beautiful islands on a day trip from Athens: Poros, Hydra, and Aegina.

Hydra Island is mainly famous for its exciting  donkey rides . It’s also called an  ‘unspoiled island’  since there is no other transportation besides donkeys.

Its name translates to English as  ‘water.’  It’s also believed that the island was home to a mean  monster called Hydra .

Hydra has rather  pebble beaches , among which the most popular are  Palamida ,  Molos , and  Kaminia . Besides, it’s also a great place for  water activities  such as snorkeling or scuba diving.

Hydra island belongs to the less visited, yet one of the closest to Athens on this list. It has a special vibe, so if you want to experience another  authentic Greek island  where life stops and you drive on donkeys, Hydra is your choice.

Activities In Hydra

🔆 Donkey Ride 🔆 Pebble beaches 🔆 Prophet Elias Monastery 🔆 Water activities

How  To Get To Hydra Island From Athens

Like Poros, Hydra is very close to Athens, so the best way is to  take a ferry . You can take the  Flyingcat speed ferry , which will get you to Hydra Island in  1 hour and 35 minutes .

It departs in the morning, so you’ll have the entire day to explore the island again.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Hydra via FerryScanner here.

Syros Island is famous for its  numerous churches  and  stunning views  from the main cathedral. From the cathedral, you’ll  see other surrounding Greek islands , such as Mykonos, Paros, Delos, or Naxos, some of which are also on this list.

The island has two other names. So, if you spot the name  Siros or Syra , it all refers to Syros Island.

Enjoy its  center  with cafes and small bars.  Try local specialties  such as salad with capers (Kaparosalata), Frisoura appetizer stuffed grilled squid (calamari Gemalto), or dessert Loukoumi. Then,  get a delicious Greek ice cappuccino  and return to Athens by ferry.

Sightseeing In Syros

🔆 Agios Stefanos Chapel 🔆 Kastri archaeological site 🔆 Ano Meria – best tavernas and calm environment 🔆 Ermoupoli cultural center 🔆 Gria Cave 🔆 Paralia Kini beach

How To Get To Syros From Athens

You can  take a ferry from Piraeus port in Athens , which will get you to Syros  within 2 hours . It’s the best way to get to Syros Island.

There are also  flights  from Athens to Syros, but only once per day. Unfortunately, it usually operates around 10 am or lunchtime , so you would get to the island in the afternoon.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Syros via FerryScanner here.

PRO TIP:  I recommend  taking the first ferry  from Athens to Syros around 7 am. This way, you’ll be on the island around 9 am and have the whole day to explore it.

👉 READ ALSO: 27 Great Places To Visit In Europe In November

6. Santorini

Santorini is slightly further away from Athens, but it’s one of the  most iconic Green islands  that must be on the list. If you wake up early and want to see Santorini in a day, you can manage it. Some ferries take you there  within 4 hours .

Santorini was originally a  volcanic island . Back in 1600 BC, it experienced an  eruption , which is believed to be the biggest one ever in the world. The island was torn down, and only the  caldera , which you can visit today, was left. It’s also the only inhabited caldera worldwide.

The volcanic eruption also contributed to the  extinction of the Minoan civilization  living on Crete island, 110 km from Santorini.

Nowadays, it’s still an  active volcano , and you can  swim in hot springs  in the center.

As with other Greek islands, Santorini hosts beautiful  white and blue houses . In the past, the island experienced  severe cholera , and locals believed the  limestone  in the white color  prevented the disease from spreading  further.

Santorini has  specific beaches  that you won’t find on any other islands. They have particular colors because of their  volcanic origin  as well.

Sightseeing In Santorini

🔆 Fira – capital of Santorini 🔆 Oia – best place for sun set watching 🔆 Hike from Fira to Oia 🔆 Boat trip around the island to the surrounding smaller islands & hot springs 🔆 Sail on a catamaran 🔆 Visit beaches: Vlihada, Red beach, Kamari, Perissa, Agios Georgios 🔆 Do a wine tour 🔆 Amoudi Bay – charming fishing village

How To Get To Santorini From Athens

You can reach Santorini from Athens within  4 hours & 45 minutes , taking a  ferry  from Piraeus port. It’s the fastest way by ferry but also one of the most expensive.

Alternatively, you can  fly , which is a pretty good idea if you want to visit Santorini for a day. The  flight from Athens to Thira , Santorini, takes  50 minutes . So it’s the fastest way. You can  fly for only 15 Euros  if you get a good deal.

PRO TIP:  I suggest booking a  flight from Athens to Santorini early in the morning , around 6 am. That way, you’ll have the  whole day to explore  the island. Then, in the evening, you can take an  overnight ferry back to Athens . This way, you’ll experience even the ferry and maximize your time in Santorini.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Santorini via FerryScanner here.

Santorini: Top Sights, Wine Tasting & Oia Sunset

Join this guided tour of Santorini if you want to see the highlights with a local guide within a day.

Sifnos is  one of the busiest Greek islands  thanks to its commercial activity. It’s also considered a  ‘Green Island’  since agriculture is the main sector contributing to the economy here. Other than that, it’s also famous for  silver and gold mining . Still, you’ll find quiet places to relax and admire beautiful  churches  with stunning  sea views .

The island is mainly popular thanks to its churches. It’s an iconic  Chrisopigi Monastery  with beautiful views on the island’s edge. It has also been associated with many  miracle powers  from the past.

When I visited Sifnos Island , I sat next to the monastery for 4 hours, stared at the sea, and later watched the stars . It was one of the most magical moments of my life . So if you want a less crowded island with a special atmosphere, I’m sure you’ll love it.

Sifnos will also surprise you with its  amazing beaches . It’s believed to have some of the most beautiful ones worldwide. You can visit, for instance,  Kamareras  and  Faros Beach . They also have restaurants and bars on the spot to enjoy delicious  Greek food .

Sightseeing In Sifnos

🔆 Chrisopigi Monastery 🔆 Agios Andreas Acropolis & Museum 🔆 Beaches

How To Get To Sifnos From Athens

You can get to Sifnos island in  2 hours  by taking the  Seajet 2 ferry  from Athens. It’s also the only way to get to the island. There are  no flights . The ferry departs around 7 am, so you’ll again have the whole day to explore its beautiful churches and beaches.

The  last ferry from Sifnos  back to Athens is usually around 6 pm, which is great timing.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Sifnos via FerryScanner here.

Milos Island has been shaped by earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. It’s also a part of the so-called South Aegean Volcanic arc created when the  African tectonic plate  moved under the  Aegean Sea .

Thanks to the volcanic activity, the Milos coastline has  beautiful rock formations . One of the most visited areas is the  Sarakiniko beach , created by  poured and frozen lava  following a volcanic eruption.

You’ve probably heard of or seen the  statue of Aphrodite , also known as the  Venus of Milo . It resembles the Greek goddess of love and beauty and was discovered in Milos in 1820. Nowadays, it’s in  the Louvre in Paris . You can also see its replica in the  Archaeological Museum  on this island.

Another interesting thing you must visit while on the island is  Kleftiko Bay , the  pirates’ paradise  during the Turkish occupation.

Germany invaded Milos island  during WWII . There are still  bomb shelters  below Adamas. It’s a  network of tunnels , which you can still explore nowadays.

Sightseeing In Milos

🔆 Sarakiniko beach 🔆 Speed Boat Cruise To Kleftiko Bay 🔆 Ancient Roman Theater 🔆 Mandrakia fishing village 🔆 Roman catacombs 🔆 Gallery of Adamas – bomb tunnels 🔆 Archaeological Museum 🔆 Milos Mining Museum

How To Get To Milos From Athens

The best way to get to Milos island from Athens is by  ferry . The first one leaves around 7 am. It’ll take you about  2 hours and 30 minutes  to get there. You can also book a flight, which only takes 40 minutes. However, it’s over 100 euros per flight.

In the evening, there are  ferries back to Athens . The last one is after 5 pm.

➡ Book your ferry tickets to Milos via FerryScanner here.

Practical Tips For Visiting The Greek Islands

To help you plan your day trips even more and navigate the ferries in Greece, I’ve go more tips for you. See from which port you’ll have to depart, how the ferries work in Greece, and where to buy your tickets:

How Do Ferries Work In Greece?

Many ferry companies provide transport all over Greece and its islands. Some are fast ferries, so you can get to all these islands within 2 or 3 hours. But these are also going to be  the most expensive .

If you  travel on a budget  and want the  cheapest ferries , getting to these islands will take longer.

Where To Buy Ferry Tickets In Greece?

You can buy ferry tickets on the port, in local ferry agencies (e.g. on the Monastiraki Square), or online . I always buy my tickets online via FerryScanner .

Some ferries might be fully booked , so if you want to be secure, get a ticket online .

When buying a ticket online , you have to make a check-in online and get a confirmation code that a guy will scan when you enter the ferry.

So don’t make the same mistake as me (when traveling on a Greek ferry for the first time), and make the online check-in before traveling. You’ll get an email notification for the check-in a few days before your trip.

Where Do The Ferries To Greek Islands Depart From?

The main port in Athens is Piraeus , where most ferries and boats depart. There are also other ports, but you’ll probably have to go to Piraeus.

You can take a taxi , which is not so expensive in Greece. Or take a local bus/train from the center of Athens ( Monastiraki Square ) directly to the port.

Popular Ferry Companies In Greece

The most popular ferry companies that operate trips from Piraeus port to these Greek islands are:

🚢 Superexpress 🚢 Blue Star Delos 🚢 Worldchampion Jet 🚢 Flyingcat 🚢 Highspeed 🚢 Santorini Palace 🚢 Seajet

BONUS: 10-Day Greek Road Trip Itinerary

If you want to explore more highlights of Greece , check out my Greek itinerary for 10 days . It’s a road trip that will take you through the most beautiful places in inland Greece . At the end, you’ll have an option to visit another beautiful Greek island .

So get my Greek itinerary by clicking on the image below:

I’ve also answered some frequently asked questions about the Greek islands. Check my answers below:

What Is The Best Island To Visit From Athens For One Day?

Poros is the best island to visit from Athens for a day. It’s only 1 hour away from the Piraeus port in Athens by ferry. So it’s very convenient to get there .

The island is beautiful , and you can do many activities , including water sports, biking, relaxing on a beach, eating delicious food, or souvenir shopping.

Can You Do A Day Trip From Athens To The Islands?

Yes , you can make day trips from Athens to the islands. The closest islands to Athens are Poros, Hydra, Sifnos, and Mykonos .

What Is The Easiest Greek Island To Get To From Athens?

Poros is the easiest Greek island to get to from Athens. You can reach it within 1 hour by ferry. The island is small; you can enjoy biking, water sports, beaches, sights, and souvenir shopping. Everything is within one day.

WRAP-UP: Best Island Day Trips From Athens

These are the most beautiful island trips you can make from the Greek capital. Each island is different and offers unique activities and stunning scenery. If you only want to visit a typical Greek island (small in size) without too much traveling , head to Poros or Hydra .

If you want to experience paradise and fewer crowds, I recommend Sifnos . If you’re a party animal and don’t mind the crowds, Mykonos is the perfect island. For all honeymooners , visit Milos or Santorini .

If you have any questions or need help planning your trip , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Greece Travel

Looking to visit more places in Greece? Check out my related articles:

Epic Greece Road Trip Itinerary For 10 Days

27 Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

GREECE : Interested in more articles for Greece? Check out my Greece Travel Page .

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By Marissa Tejada

There are several amazing Greek island day trips from Athens you can plan for.  Greece’s ancient yet modern capital is the primary entry point to Greece, rich with archaeological sites, vibrant nightlife and unique urban flair. Athens is also a launching pad for Greek island excursions that are perfect day trips, each one just about an hour ferry ride away.

Here’s a look at the most popular Greek island day trips from Athens. You can easily organize a taxi from Athens airport to the ferry terminal by pre-booking before arrival.

Just 15 minutes on a ferry departing from the Port of Perama (west of the Athens port city of Piraeus), takes you over the waterway that was once the scene of the most strategic game-changing battles of ancient Greece: Battle of Salamina.

Today, Salamina is a quiet island destination where many working class Athenians head out for the weekend to get away from city life at their summer cottages. If you are looking for stunning waters set in a relaxed, low key atmosphere — this is a day trip for you.

Some of the top beaches include Psili Ammos, Iliakti, Aeanteio, and the southern beaches of Selinia, Saterli and Kaki Vigla. Also worth visiting is the Fanoromeni Monastery and the Archaeological Museum of Salamina.

With one of the most stunning island harbors in all of Greece, Hydra is the gem of the Saronic Gulf . It’s also unique as the only Greek island free of any cars.

Here donkeys do the heavy lifting and transport, adding to the rustic feel of the island. Admire the noble stone architecture and get lost in Hydra Town’s inviting maze of stone paths and bougainvillea drenched lanes.

If you get inspired to be creative, you wouldn’t be alone. Artists and writers including Arthur Miller, Leonard Cohen, Melina Mercouri and Sophia Loren all have visited and stayed for a while.

Just a one hour ferry ride takes you to Poros island, where Poros Town greets visitors at its port and is the main town to explore, lined with stone paths, cobbled lanes and a hilltop clock tower with stunning views.

There are beautiful beaches too including sandy Askeli and Love Bay which is bordered by fragrant pine forests.

Aegina is one of the closest islands to Athens, only 16.5 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus. The ancient Aphea Temple is a must-see site, and forms an equilateral triangle with the Parthenon of Athens and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion in southern Athens; often referred to as the “holy triangle” of the antiquity.

Aegina Town is the main town, lined with historical buildings, museums, shops and cafes. There are many smaller villages including Kypseli, Agii and Vagia and beach resorts like Agia Marina, Perdika and Souvala.

Just under an hour ferry ride from the port of Piraeus is Agistri – often overlooked by international tourists – making it a calm island getaway for a day or a weekend.

The landscape here is strewn with greenery and pine trees that meet aqua blue waters. There are four towns to explore including Megalochori, Skala, Limenaria, and Metochi. The best beaches are Halkiada, Dragonera and the tiny island beach of Aponisos.

For a Day Trip or Weekend

That sums up the best Greek island day trips from Athens, each one is explorable within a day or if you have more time, for a weekend.

During the summer season, frequent ferry connections between many of the islands make it possible to plan a few days of island hopping.

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How to Plan a Budget Trip to Europe

Native New Yorker Marissa Tejada is an author, food and travel writer and freelance journalist living in Greece.

Her work has been featured in CNN Travel, Forbes, Fodor’s Travel, Lonely Planet, Wine Enthusiast, enRoute and other top English language media. She also publishes her food and travel adventures across Greece and Europe on her blog,  Travel Greece, Travel Europe .  Her first novel,  Chasing Athens , has made several top 10 best seller lists on Amazon.

You can find her on  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Google + ,  Instagram  and  Pinterest .

Photo credits:  Travel Greece, Travel Europe . Agistri by  Christian Bélanger .

34 Comments

A day trip is of course better than no trip, but many day-trip destinations are so different (and better) at night, it’s worth considering a stayover.

Very good point too! Especially with these beach destinations, I love walking the beach at night, it’s such a beautiful atmosphere :)

Hopefully when we get to Greece we can spend some proper time instead of jetting off at the end of the day :)

Ah I wish I read this a week ago. I planned my trip to Athens, Santorini and Crete and am flying in between the islands. I love that Piraeus is just under an hour ferry ride! Great information.

Well if you find you have some spare time in Athens perhaps you can jump on a ferry one day! Have an amazing trip!

I love to see coverage on lesser known Greek islands beyond Santorini. I only made it to Mykonos while there, all the more reason to return and check these out!

So glad you enjoyed the post! Yes, there’s so much more to the Greek Islands than the famous spots :)

These are great island choices! I’ve been to Aegina. Hydra, and Poros. They are each unique in their own beautiful way.

Glad you enjoyed the post Karen and have had a chance to explore some of these islands too :) Happy travels!

Oh, Greek I wish that you’re just so near to me and I’ll surely visit you from time to time. Truly, this blog post is really a help for those that are planning to visit Greek Island from Athens. I would really love to take the ferry boat from Perama, it must be really fun and amazing seeing the jaw-dropping view along the way. Thank you so much for sharing!

LaiAriel R. Samangka

So glad you enjoyed the post LaiAriel :) And I hope you have the chance to experience and explore Greece soon!

These are all great day trip ideas, I’d love to use Athens as a base to explore them all. I think Hydra would be my first pick too – just because it’s got a cool name!

It is an awesome name, isn’t it!! Hope you have the chance to hit up Athens soon!

All of this sounds dreamy and looks incredible! No one talks about these lesser known islands, so I’m glad you shared! If I ever make it that way, I’ll be doing a day trip for sure!

So glad we could collaborate with Marissa to cover some of the lesser known islands … so much more to offer beyond the regular tourist traps! Hope you have the chance to travel soon :)

Always wanted to check out the Islands in Greece. It looks so nice and relaxing. Not heard of these ones before, so good to know that they are not too far away from Athens :D

Glad we could introduce you to a couple of islands which are new :) Hope you have the chance to travel soon!

This is a super useful post for me since I’m planning to go to Greece for the first time this summer! I think I’m going to do a sailing trip so this is great for planning. Thanks for sharing!

Awesome Sally! You’ll love Greece, it’s such a great time as a traveler to visit too, they really need the tourism :) Have a great trip!

Greece is one of the countries high on my bucket list of Europe. These islands just look perfect. I mostly want to visit Greece for its history followed by the beaches. Aegina looks appealing with a mix of temples and beach.

Glad to hear that Reshma! It’s an incredible country :) And yes, the Greek Islands are as close to paradise as one could get! Aegina is a great choice if you’re traveling for history :)

These all seem like wonderful day trips! I would definitely like to go there and feel artistically inspired. And the water is so blue! I’m sure Greece is one of the most gorgeous countries on the planet.

I agree with you – Greece is definitely one of the most beautiful countries on the planet! Hope you have the chance to travel soon :)

I really want to explore more of Greece, it is such a picturesque country and has amazing food! I think Hydra would be too of the list for not having any cars!

I agree re Hydra being top of the list for being vehicle free :)

Hi great post. Poros, with it’s stone paths, cobbled lanes, hilltop clock tower, and stunning views, it sounds like a place I would really love to visit when we make it to Greece one day. Thanks for all the great info.

Glad you enjoyed the post Samantha! Hope you have the opportunity to travel to Greece and take in Poros soon :)

Yes, Santorini is gorgeous and worth a trip if you can swing it, but there are so many more beautiful islands worth exploring! If you’re traveling to Athens, at least one of these day trips should be on your agenda.

Absolutely Nick! It’s a much more authentic experience too when you’re exploring islands off the typical tourist track :) Happy travels!

We visited Greece in June and what an amazing place to explore! It was so hard to make our itinerary because there are just soooo many places that look wonderful. Hydra is high on my list!!

Agreed! So many islands, and destinations within Greece to explore, it’s definitely difficult to choose. Hydra is a great choice though :)

Greece is an amazing destination with multifarious tourist attractions. Handpicking a few prime tourist attractions for a short visit is a cumbersome task.

Absolutely, you could spend a lifetime exploring and still want to head back for more! Glad you enjoyed the post John :)

I am headed to Athens in a couple of weeks and plan to do multiple day trips to a few of the islands. What is the best way to find ferry information? Can most of the islands be navigated by walking or will additional transportation need to be accounted for? Thanks! ~Di

Hi Di, so the main port in Athens is Piraeus, though there are two others as well (Rafina and Lavrion). Piraeus has ferries to the majority of islands though.

For finding schedules and booking your ferry tickets online there are a couple of different websites you can use to compare prices and book:

http://www.greekferries.gr http://www.ferriesingreece.com http://www.ferries.gr http://www.letsferry.gr http://www.greeceferries.com http://www.ferryconnection.com

Re navigating each island, most of the options Marissa has detailed here are pretty navigable on foot, though if you’re considering other islands it’ll just depend on your choice, so definitely worthwhile doing a quick check before you book :)

Have an amazing time!

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15 Top-Rated Day Trips from Athens

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 2, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Some of the Greece's top tourist attractions are within easy reach of Athens . Fascinating historical monuments, spectacular natural scenery, and peaceful spiritual retreats can be visited on day trips from Greece's capital city.

Just a short drive or bus ride from the city are the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Daphne, the inspiring Kaisariani Monastery, the hiker's paradise of Mount Parnitha, and the gorgeous Lake Vouliagmeni on the Athens Riviera coastline.

Other destinations are slightly further afield and merit staying overnight, especially Metéora, where amazing monasteries spring forth from a mystical landscape, and Nafplio, a romantic seaside town that is a perfect base for visiting archaeological sites in Mycenae and Epidaurus.

Any of these excursions would make a fantastic addition to your Greece vacation itinerary . Discover the best places to visit and plan your adventures with our list of the best day trips from Athens.

3. Mycenae: The Legendary City of Greek Mythology

4. athens riviera (coast of apollo), 5. the islands of aegina, poros, and hydra, 7. the romantic city of nafplio, 8. the ancient theater of epidaurus, 9. the monastery of daphni, 10. monastery of kaisariani, 11. ancient cult mysteries at eleusis, 12. piraeus: an ancient harbor, modern port, and ferry terminus, 13. lake marathon, 14. mystras, 15. mount parnitha, map of day trips from athens.

In an enchanting natural setting between two craggy peaks of Mount Parnassus , the archaeological ruins of Delphi have a magical quality. At this legendary site during Classical antiquity, an oracle shared advice and prophecies.

This intriguing UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site was one of the most important religious centers in Greece in the 6th century BCE (on par with the Island of Delos). During ancient times, pilgrims came to hear the oracle of Apollo (a prophetess believed to channel the words of the god Apollo) speak at Delphi's Temple of Apollo.

Among the highlights of visiting Delphi is walking along The Sacred Way that leads up to the Temple of Apollo. This route gives visitors a sense of the pilgrimage path once used to enter the hallowed Sanctuary of Apollo , a complex of several monuments.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi displays objects uncovered at the archaeological site and is considered one of the world's best collections of ancient Greek artifacts, dating from the Mycenaean period to Late Antiquity. Highlights include the Classical-era bronze Charioteer of Delphi statue, the 6th-century BCE Sphinx of Naxos (lion's body with bird wings and a woman's head), and sculpted treasuries (reliefs) that reveal mythological scenes. The museum also has a gift shop and a cafeteria.

Delphi is 180 kilometers from Athens, and it's possible to visit it as a day trip, although the drive takes about 2.5 hours. For those who have the time, an overnight trip is more relaxing, but for travelers spending only one day in Delphi, the best way to see all the essential places is by taking an organized excursion.

The Delphi Day Trip from Athens is recommended because it features a walking tour through the archaeological site, led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the ancient monuments and history. This tour also includes a visit to the Archaeological Museum.

Breathtakingly surreal and serenely spiritual, the Metéora monasteries spring forth from a dreamy landscape of rocky cliffs in the Plain of Thessaly.

The first hermits came to this far-removed corner of Greece at least as early as the 9th century to withdraw from the world and contemplate divinity. Christian Orthodox monks began building monasteries here in the 14th century and continued establishing monasteries until the 16th century.

Originally 24 monasteries stood at this astonishing location, built onto the edges of vertiginous cliffs or perched on sheer sandstone formations reaching 300 meters to over 500 meters in elevation. With their exalted heights and almost mystical inaccessibility, the Metéora monasteries seem to soar towards heaven and reflect the human striving for holiness.

Currently only a small group of monks and nuns live and worship at the six remaining Metéora monasteries that are still active. Today, Metéora draws more tourists than spiritual seekers, as this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is an extremely popular travel destination. The six working monasteries (including two convents) at the site are open to the public.

Standing on a high rock formation, the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron (Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ) presides over the landscape and affords phenomenal views. Founded in the 14th century, the Great Meteoron Monastery is the largest monastery at Metéora. Highlights include 16th-century frescoes and a collection of Greek Orthodox religious icons and Byzantine-era manuscripts.

The Monastery of Varlaám , founded in the 14th century and built in the 16th century, is the second largest monastery in Metéora. Accessible by a pedestrian staircase, this monastery has a magnificent domed church decorated with exquisite frescoes. The monastic complex also includes a museum of reliquaries (in the former refectory), dormitory quarters, and a small wood-roofed chapel.

Clinging to a steep precipice as if suspended in midair, the glorious 15th-century Monastery of Holy Trinity is the most inaccessible; it's reached by a pedestrian pathway that leads to a staircase of 300 steps. This monastery boasts the most spectacular location of Metéora, which was used as a film set in For Your Eyes Only (a 1981 movie) when James Bond scaled the cliffside.

The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas, dating to the 14th century, features a tiny low-domed church decorated with precious murals created in 1527 by Theophanes Strelitzas, a monk from the island of Crete. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of post-Byzantine painting in Greece.

One of the most striking sights in Metéora, the 16th-century Monastery of Roussanou comprises several buildings that crown sheer pinnacles. Now a convent, the Monastery of Roussanou is home to a small community of around 15 nuns. From the Monastery of Roussanou, visitors can take in views of the other Metéora monasteries and the dramatic landscape.

In a vantage point that offers superb panoramas of the valley and the mountains, the Monastery of Saint Stephan (another convent) is the easiest of the monasteries to access because it is reached by a footbridge rather than steps.

Tourists who have enough time can hike from one monastery to the next.

Metéora is a long journey from Athens (about 350 kilometers away) whether traveling by train, bus, or car, so it can be difficult to fit in as a day trip. For the easiest and best experience at Metéora, a guided excursion is the way to go. Travelers get the most out of a well-organized tour, such as the Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens that allows for visits to three monasteries, led by a guide who explains the unique history of each monastery.

The real-life location of the city of Agamemnon in Greek mythology (often mentioned by Homer), the archaeological ruins of Mycenae are 120 kilometers from Athens and about 25 kilometers from Nafplio.

Mycenae dates to the Bronze Age, when the fortified citadel at this hilltop settlement was an important center of ancient Mycenaean civilization , especially in the 14th and 13th century BCE. The earliest archaeological fragments uncovered here date to the 15th century BCE, considered the Prehistoric Period .

Visitors can see remains of ancient palaces, fountains, ramparts, and the famous Lion's Gate and "Tomb of Agamemnon" (also called the "Treasury of Atreus"). Many of the ruins are remarkably well-preserved considering their antiquity.

To get the most out of a visit to this incredible archaeological site, a guided tour is the best option. The full-day Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip departs from Athens, and stops in Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidaurus. The visit to Mycenae includes a walking tour led by an expert in ancient Greek history, who illuminates the significance of the Mycenae ruins and tells interesting stories.

This lovely stretch of coastline begins just a few kilometers outside of Athens and extends for approximately 100 kilometers (a two-hour drive) until reaching Cape Soúnion. This area has many archaeological ruins, as well as pampering spas, five-star hotels, traditional restaurants, golf courses, beach clubs, sailing clubs, and yacht marinas.

During summertime, vacation-goers luxuriate in the balmy weather, go for strolls along palm-fringed seaside esplanades, and bask in the sunshine on well-maintained beaches.

Highlights of the Athens Riviera include the seaport of Lavrio ; the mesmerizing Lake Vouliagmeni , therapeutic natural hot springs with underwater caves; and the impressive Doric-style Temple of Poseidon (dating to the 5th century BCE), which stands majestically on a steep crag at Cape Soúnion overlooking the sparkling emerald-blue waters of the Mediterranean.

It's easy to visit many of the attractions along the Athens Riviera by using public transportation; the tram leaves from Syntagma Square in the Athens city center.

The most delightful way to discover the Athens Riviera is by taking an organized tour. The Cape Soúnion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Trip departs from Athens for a scenic drive along the coastline, winding along the stunning coastal cliffs until arriving at the Temple of Poseidon. At the archaeological site, tourists can explore the ruins, take photos, and admire the ravishing sea view that extends all the way to the Island of Kea on a clear day.

Surrounded by the calm blue waters of the Saronic Gulf , the islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra are easy day-trip destinations for tourists based in Athens. All three islands are accessible by ferry boats from the port at Piraeus (12 kilometers from Athens).

The Island of Aegina, the closest to Athens (a 40-minute ferry ride from Piraeus), is famous for the Temple of Athena Aphaia, which is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. Other must-see attractions include the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the Archaeological Museum with a famous 6th-century BCE sculpture of the Aegina Sphinx.

Known for its beautiful sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters, the Island of Poros (a one-hour ferry ride from Piraeus) is ideal for family summer vacations and weekend trips from Athens. Highlights include the waterfront town of Poros and the seaside village of Askeli with tourist-friendly beaches, cafés, and restaurants.

Slightly farther from Athens but still an easy day trip, the Island of Hydra is an enchanting destination, where donkeys are the only means of public transportation. Narrow cobblestone streets and pedestrian alleyways add to the old-world feel. The island's capital, Hydra Town, features an attractive and bustling harbor. The island also has a small fishing village with good seafood tavernas, a scenic coastal walking path, and calm sheltered beaches.

Each of the islands merits a visit, but because of the limited ferry schedule, it's only logistically feasible to visit one of the islands on a day trip if traveling by ferry.

One way to see all three islands in a day (and much easier than traveling by ferry from Piraeus) is the Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise . This full-day cruise departs in Athens and stops at all three islands. Sufficient time is allowed on each island for taking leisurely strolls, visiting the historic monuments, browsing souvenir shops, and relaxing at outdoor cafés. This cruise also includes lunch and a traditional Greek music and dance performance.

Read More: Top-Rated Greek Islands

About 85 kilometers (a one-hour drive) from Athens and 40 kilometers (a 35-minute drive) from Mycenae, Corinth is a modern port town with a bustling waterfront scene and a wide selection of things to do , including plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés.

For tourists, the main attraction is the Ancient Corinth archaeological site (nine kilometers outside the modern town). Standing on the highest point in Ancient Corinth, the iconic Temple of Apollo (dating to the 5th century BCE) appears from a distance to dominate the landscape. Upon closer observation, the temple's massive Doric columns give a sense of the monument's original scale and grandeur.

Most of the other ruins at the site date to the 1st century CE (during the era of Roman rule), including the forum, bathhouse, theater, the temple of Octavia, and the healing sanctuary of Asklepios.

Many of the objects excavated at the archaeological site are now on display at the nearby Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth . This museum displays an extensive collection of antiquities, including pottery, mosaics, and statues. The ancient Roman mosaic floors and sculpted busts are especially noteworthy.

To truly appreciate the ancient ruins and artifacts, the best option is to go on a guided tour. One recommendation is the Corinth Half-Day Trip from Athens , which begins with a scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf and stops briefly at the Corinth Canal before arriving at Corinth for a tour of the archeological site and the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. The half-day trip concludes by stopping at a seaside village before returning to Athens.

In a sheltered bay on the Argolic Gulf , this picturesque seaport is full of old-world romance. Nafplio exudes lively Mediterranean ambience in every corner of the town, but especially in its waterfront cafés and atmospheric alleyways.

Boasting a rich heritage, Nafplio dates back to the Prehistoric Era with the Argonautic Expedition and the Trojan War. Later, the conquering Romans, Byzantine Empire, Venetians, and Ottoman Turks left their mark in a plethora of ancient monuments: impressive Venetian fortresses, elaborate Ottoman fountains, and domed Turkish mosques.

At the city's center is the Italianate Syntagma Square , lined with historic buildings. Another top attraction is the Palamidi Castle , presiding over a hilltop more than 200 meters above sea level. It's a rewarding trek up to the castle, but it requires a walk of nearly 1,000 steps.

Another castle is even more inaccessible, the Venetian Bourtzi Fortress on the islet of Agioi Theodoroi, which can only be reached by boat during the tourism season, but is still a popular destination and the most-photographed landmark of Nafplio. The Bourtzi Fortress hosts the Summer Music Festival in June.

Nafplio is about 136 kilometers from Athens in Greece's Peloponnese region. It's a great base for spending a few days to visit the archaeological sites in Mycenae (21 kilometers away) and Epidaurus (35 kilometers away).

Another ancient town worthy of a detour is Argos (12 kilometers from Nafplio), which has an excellent Archaeological Museum . Outside of the town are excavated ruins that include ancient Roman baths ( thermae ), a marketplace ( agora ), the Temple of Aphrodite (Venus), and a Hellenistic-era theater with seating for an audience of 20,000 spectators (making it among the largest in ancient Greece).

The Ancient Theater of Argos is still in use today, when it becomes the venue for the Summer Festival of Argos-Mycenae from June through August. Attending a music concert or dance performance under a starry night sky at this spacious and beautifully designed ancient theater is among the most memorable things to do while on vacation in Greece.

This pleasant seaside town on the Saronic Gulf is about a three-hour drive from Athens and a 30-minute drive from Nafplio. The main tourist draw of Epidaurus is the well-preserved Ancient Theater (near the ancient Sanctuary of Asklepios), which dates from the 4th century BCE.

Visitors can easily imagine the Greek dramas that were performed here more than two millennia ago, especially during the Athens Epidaurus Festival (in June, July, and August) when the Ancient Theater is a venue for performances of ancient Greek drama.

The Athens Epidaurus Festival also presents contemporary and avant-garde music; theater and dance performances are held at the Little Theater (also from the 4th-century BCE) of Epidaurus. Other festival events take place at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient theater in Athens.

Those who'd like to learn more about Epidaurus' ancient history will appreciate the Archaeological Museum , located within the Sanctuary of Asklepios archaeological site. The museum displays architectural elements that were discovered at the Sanctuary of Asklepios, as well as pottery, statues, coins, and other objects uncovered at the archaeological site.

For an enjoyable and educational visit to Epidaurus, try an organized excursion such as the Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip . This guided tour departing from Athens features a scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf and visits to the archaeological sites in Mycenae and Epidaurus, where a knowledgeable guide shares historical details that help bring the ancient ruins to life.

The Monastery of Daphni is tucked away in a serene natural setting, only about 10 kilometers from Athens city center . In ancient times, this location was the site of the Temple of Apollo , to whom the laurel ( daphne ) was sacred, explaining the origin of the monastery's name. The pagan shrine was converted to an early Christian monastery, which was replaced by the present monastery in 1080.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monastery is renowned for its gilded 11th-century mosaics adorning the church interior. The glittering sanctuary is considered one of the finest Byzantine churches in Greece, on par with the monasteries of Hosios Loukas near Delphi and Nea Moni of Chios. Next to the monastery's cloister is a pleasant courtyard.

Only eight kilometers from Athens, the Kaisariani Monastery is nestled in a forest at the foot of Mount Hymettos . A parkland surrounds the monastery, providing welcome shade and fragrance with its pine trees, cypresses, Mediterranean shrubs, and aromatic flowers.

Monks once used the monastery's property for beekeeping and growing medicinal herbs. The grounds feature a natural spring that previously channeled water to the ancient Roman Temple of Aphrodite , which stood on this site.

The pure waters of the Kaisariani Spring were (and continue to be) credited with healing powers, particularly for women who wish to bear children. This water flows from a fountain shaped like a ram's head (with its mouth functioning as the spout) in the courtyard of Kaisariani Monastery.

In harmony with the restful surroundings, the monastery's 11th-century Byzantine church features a simple harmonious design. The cross-in-square layout with a central dome is typical of Byzantine architecture. Intricately detailed 17th-century frescoes adorn the interior.

After admiring the church, tourists should spend time wandering the extensive grounds, perhaps sitting under a shady tree in quiet reflection or having lunch at one of the picnic areas. Visitors may also relax at the monastery's small café in the forest or venture out onto the walking trails. The scenic paths afford sweeping panoramas of Athens in the distance and the surrounding countryside.

This archaeological site gives visitors an insight into the famous Eleusinian Mysteries , the secret religious rites of the Mycenaean era (15th-century BCE to 13th century BCE). At Eleusis (21 kilometers from Athens), tourists can see the ruins of the ancient sanctuaries associated with the Eleusinian Mysteries, including the Sanctuary of Demeter that dates back to the 14th century BCE.

The Eleusinian Mysteries cult arose out of the myth of the goddess Demeter , who lamented the loss of her daughter Persephone , abducted by Hades, god of the Underworld. According to the legend, Demeter went to Eleusis where she was reunited with Persephone. Since then, Demeter was venerated here as the Fertility Goddess to ensure bountiful harvests.

The Eleusinian Mysteries ( mystai ) were performed annually around September and October to honor the goddess Demeter for providing fertile crops. These religious rites included a procession from Athens to Eleusis, followed by ritual baths in the sea, three days of fasting, and mysterious (and still unknown) recitations.

Greece's largest modern port, Piraeus boasts more than 2,000 years of history. The fortified port was developed by Themistocles in the 5th century BCE as a commercial harbor for Athens (12 kilometers away).

Piraeus is still Athens' main commercial port and is one of the busiest seaports in the Mediterranean, as the departure point for ships sailing to Europe and the Near East. Travelers embarking on a tour around the Greek Islands will most likely begin at the Central Port in Piraeus, which is the starting point for ferry routes to all of the Aegean Islands.

Although many travelers quickly pass through Piraeus en-route to their next destination, the town does have some tourist appeal. The main attractions are the restaurants and shops at Zea Marina (Pasalimáni Harbor), the Archaeological Museum , the seafood taverns at the Mikrolimano fishing harbor , and the charming hilltop neighborhood of Kastella . During summertime, cultural events and performances are held at an outdoor theater in Kastella.

Amid the olive groves and vine-covered hills outside of Athens (45 kilometers away), this tranquil lake was formed by a dam constructed between 1926 and 1931 to create a reservoir of fresh water.

The reservoir, known as Lake Marathon, is 38 kilometers from Athens and is the city's main source of water supply. Bathing and boating are not allowed, but the area is ideal for taking nature walks, relaxing outdoors, or enjoying picnics on sunny days.

Lake Marathon is eight kilometers west of the Marathon village , on the road to the Church of Ayios Stéfanos . Marathon was celebrated in antiquity as the place where Theseus killed the bull of Marathon and the scene of the first great battle between the Greeks and Persians in 490 BCE.

About 218 kilometers from Athens and 10 kilometers from Sparta, in a striking location jutting from the slopes of the Taygetos mountain range, the ruins of medieval Mystras (Mistra) are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Called the "castle city," this captivating walled town provides a glimpse of life in the late Byzantine period (13th-15th centuries).

The best place to begin a tour is on the hilltop, where the remnants of a Byzantine fortress stand. This medieval castle was constructed in 1249 by Prince William of Villehardouin. From this vantage point, one can admire panoramic views of the countryside.

Other highlights include the Palace of Despots , a complex of (mainly Byzantine-era) buildings that overlook the Valley of Evrotas and the Plain of Sparta; the elegant and vibrantly adorned Pantánassa Monastery (still a working convent); and the more secluded Perívieptos Monastery with its intricate masonry work and delicate Byzantine fresco paintings.

Mystras also has several other Byzantine churches with exceptional frescoes that represent a flourishing of Byzantine religious art from the 13th to early 15th century.

The Archaeological Museum of Mystras presents an extensive collection of Byzantine paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and religious icons. Located in the courtyard of the Saint Demetrius Cathedral, the museum delights visitors with its peaceful setting and splendid views.

While in the area, tourists should visit the Archaeological Museum of Sparta (12 kilometers from Mystras), which displays objects found at nearby archaeological sites. The collection covers a wide range of time periods, from the Neolithic era through Classical antiquity until the late Roman period.

South of Sparta (30 kilometers away) is the village of Krokeés , which in ancient times was important for its quarries of Lapis Lacedaemonius, a dark green volcanic stone used to construct public baths.

Only 40 kilometers (about a one-hour drive) from the Athens city center, Mount Parnitha in Central Greece offers a wonderful escape to nature. This idyllic area attracts visitors who want to breathe in the fresh air and soak up the unspoiled scenery of refreshing pine forests.

To reach the Mount Parnitha National Park , drive from Athens' outlying suburb of Achárnes. The scenic road winds its way up to the mountain with numerous sharp bends. The highest mountain peak in Greece at 900 meters above sea level, Mount Parnitha has sensational hiking trails that traverse a densely wooded landscape.

A convenient base for those spending a few days exploring the National Park is the Mpafi Mountain Refuge . From this secluded spot, adventurous hikers can begin a climb to the summit of Mount Parnitha and then indulge in the refuge's homemade cuisine and rustic overnight accommodations.

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Best Day Trips from Athens: Greek Ruins, Islands, Monasteries, + More

last Updated: October 14, 2022 athens greece

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Greece and looking for the best day trips from Athens?! You’re in luck; keep on reading for some fantastic additions to any Athens itinerary!

After spending about 2 days in Athens or so, it’d be wise to get yourself outta the city! These day tours from Athens are the perfect way to extend any Greece trip, and will surely add to your obsession with the country (it did for me).

I can’t stress this enough – if you don’t have time to make it south to the popular islands ( Santorini , Mykonos , Ios, and Crete ring a bell, correct?), definitely check out a sailing trip or two from Athens. And if you’re looking for some ancient monasteries to explore, Meteora’s   calling your name. Haven’t had enough history just yet? Book yourself a tour to Delphi , Corinth, or the famed Temple of Poseidon (all excellent choices).

Plus, many of these day trips from Athens will be much quieter and less touristy than the city itself, giving you a chance to escape the crowds and observe a more authentic version of local Greek life. Set out on one of the following Athens day trips and I promise you, you won’t regret it. Just promise to bring me back a few pieces of spanakopita and some of that sweet, sweet Aegean sunshine. 🙂

Read Next: The Perfect 2-Day Athens Itinerary for the First Time Visitor

Best Day Trips from Athens

• Distance from Athens: 111 miles/184 km
• Activities You Can’t Miss : Tons of historical ruins and structures, like the Temple of Apollo and the Treasury of Athens

Located about two hours from Athens in the mountains of Central Greece lies Delphi, one of the most important historical areas in all of Greece (yup). If you haven’t already gotten enough of the ancient Greek ruins in the capital city, head on over to Delphi, as it’s by far one of the most amazing day trips from Athens for anyone who geeks out over Greek history!

It’s easiest to book a day tour like this one or this one (straight from Athens), but you can also get to Delphi by bus or car if you’d rather DIY your own trip.

Psst – I like to join organized trips in order to leave the driving to someone else, especially when traveling solo. During my recent trip to Greece, I visited Delphi on a 2-day trip to Northern Greece (which included the monasteries of Meteora as well), so that’s something to keep in mind as well if you’ve got 2 days to spare in Athens.

Here, you’ll find some of Greece’s most jaw-dropping archaeological sites, like the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of Athens, and the Theater of Delphi (all pretty remarkable if you ask me). These massive sites have towering marble ruins that sparkle against the mountainous, green backdrops, perfect for a relaxing day of exploring or, you know, the ‘gram.

If it’s rainy or you’d simply like to learn more, there are also two history museums – the Archaeological Museum of Delphi and the Museum of Delphic Festivals – to learn even more about the history and traditions of the area.

→ Read Next: My (super-informative) Day Trip to Delphi

But if you’re not that into history, Delphi has plenty of other things you can do → The surroundings are full of charming, adorable towns to explore! The village of Chrisso is full of super cute cobblestoned streets to wander, with shops and small cafes you can duck into for a quick bite.

Or, head to Arachova, the hilly little town with red-roofed homes that’s one of the most beloved winter getaways from Athens because of its amazing ski resorts. In either place, you can stop at a locally-owned Greek taverna to sample traditional Greek dishes that will make your mouth water with joy. Book day trip to Delphi here  or check out the additional options below:

2. Hydra, Aegina, and Poros (3 island cruise from Athens)

• Distance from Athens: Tour begins at Marina Flisvus, 6 miles/10 km from Athens
• Activities You Can’t Miss : 3 gorgeous Greek islands to explore, plus a buffet lunch with Greek music on a comfortable, luxurious boat!
• Special Foods to Try: Anything seafood-related! The islands are known for their amazing fish dishes. I also had cantaloupe ice cream (weird, I know) which I loved, as well as pistachios on Aegina (they have some of the best pistachios in the world)

If you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails on the water with the salty sea breezing through your hair, you can take a relaxing 3 island cruise to Hydra, Aegina, and Poros from Athens ! This cruise explores the nearby Saronic Islands, and is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing and adventurous day tours from Athens all in one.

Not only do you get to explore three beautiful islands off the coast of Athens for a whole day, but you’ll get ample time to spend reading, relaxing, and whatever you may please on the way.

Mid trip, a hearty Greek lunch will be provided, so make sure to eat your weight in grape leaves and traditional Greek cake (I sure did). A show of traditional Greek singing and dancing is also found onboard, so be sure not to miss that!

Most day cruises to the Saronic Islands leave from Marina Flisvos, a port just outside of Athens. You’ll board your ship and get sailing! Your first port will be at Hydra, where you’ll have approximately 90 minutes to wander through the streets of the main town or head down to the sparkling beaches, which are perfect for sunbathing or going for a swim.

This idyllic island full of picturesque red tiled houses and narrow stone-paved streets is one I’ll gladly revisit on my next trip to Greece.  

→ Read Next: Sailing to the Saronic Islands from Athens

Next, you’ll head to Poros, which is a quieter island with isolated beaches and some historic buildings that are even visible from the water (!!!). Despite being the smallest of the three, Poros is a volcanic little island filled with great beauty and lush, green vegetation.

Here, you can hang out by the water or explore the town, where you’ll find cobblestoned streets and adorable shops and Greek tavernas. You’ll explore Poros for ~50 minutes before heading back to the boat for your final island of the day.

Your last and longest stop will be at Aegina, where you’ll have a whole 3 hours to wander around on foot. Aegina is one of the most important and famous islands for Greek ruins and history (oh so much history everywhere in this country!). Here, you can find the famous Temple of Aphaia, which was an early rendition of the Parthenon.

There are plenty of historic and natural gems to explore on Aegina, and since it’s the longest stop, you should be able to hit the most iconic spots. Don’t miss out on the pistachos → Up and down the waterfront I found plenty and plenty of pistachio stands, offering loads of samples, which you know I devoured.  

Little did I know, pistachio trees have been cultivated on Aegina Island since the 1860’s! To say they are quite famous here is a massive understatement! Book sailing trip to 3 islands here  or check out the additional options below:

3. Nafplio, Mycenae, + Epidaurus

• Distance from Athens: 83 miles/138 km
• Activities You Can’t Miss : Exploring the ruins at Mycenae, historic castles in Nafplio, and the theater at Epidaurus

As one of the popular Athens day trips, a visit to Nafplio, Mycenae, and Epidaurus (also known as the Argolis) offers a nice mix of history and charming villages. If you’ve never heard of these places, they’re home to some of the most impressive temples in Greece, like the Lionesses Gate and the Ancient Treasure of Atreus.

I know, they sound like amazing, faraway lands from some kind of storybook, but these are actual places that you can visit on a day trip to the Argolis area!

Since you’ll have to move around quite a bit to fit everything in one day, I recommend taking a tour like this one or this one . Both will take you to the main sites in the Argolis area, but the first tour actually comes with an actual archaeologist as your guide, who can tell you all of the cool stories and theories surrounding these ruins.

First, you’ll head to Mycenae, where you’ll see ruins like the Cyclopean Walls, the Lionesses Gate, and the Ancient Treasure of Atreus, which were constructed in the Bronze Age (~1350 BC). You can admire the amazing, ancient structures here, which have really withstood the test of time over thousands of years!

Then, you’ll head to the former capital of Greece, Nafplio, where you’ll get to see the blend of Venetian, Greek, Ottoman, and Byzantine architecture and history. Visit the Castles of Bourtzi and Palamidi in Nafplio, which are two really beautiful examples of the different, unique architecture in the area.

You can head back to Athens early or end your day at Epidaurus, which is a massive, ancient theater near Nafplio. It is still used today occasionally, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a festival or event going on there! Book tour here  or check out the additional options below:

• Distance from Athens: 215 miles/358 km
• Activities You Can’t Miss : Visiting cliff-top monasteries and seeing the entire area from Panorama Rock

Quite possibly one of the most famous sites in Greece (and one of the most popular day trips from Athens), Meteora is an area home to isolated, ancient monasteries that sit atop the most eerie rock formations ever – vertical columns that seem to spring out of nowhere!

Of course, the monasteries are amazing, but it’s really the combination of the strange landscape and the man-made structures on top of it that make Meteora so special.

You can get to Meteora on your own by bus or train, or you can book a day trip like this one or this one . In my opinion, since Meteora is so far from Athens , it’s a LOT easier to book a tour so you don’t have to worry about getting yourself there and back in one day. I’m exhausted just thinking about that.

Once you’re in Meteora, your tour will take you to see the amazing viewpoint from Panorama Rock, visit some of the cliff-top monasteries, and explore the nearby town of Kalambaka. If you’re DIY-ing your trip, you can go hiking as well, provided you have enough time for that (hint, you probably won’t with just one day from Athens).

If you’re interested in visiting both Delphi and Meteora (highly, highly recommended), you can combine the two into one 2-day tour instead of going back and forth on separate day tours from Athens (now that’d just be silly). Delphi is on the way to Meteora, so you’ll save time and money by doing both in one trip.

You can DIY your trip or make it easier on yourself by booking this wonderful 2-day tour , which includes accommodation, all tours, and some meals. Book 1 day tour to Meteora here. Book 2 day tour to both Delphi and Meteora here.  Check out the additional options below:

5. Sailing to Agistri, Moni & Aegina

• Distance from Athens: The tour starts in Piraeus, which is 9 miles/15 km from Athens
• Activities You Can’t Miss : Snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on the seaside (plus beautiful historic sites in Aegina)

I hope you’re not tired of exploring the Greek islands, because this is one of the best Athens day trips for a full day of island hopping! ( Who am I kidding, how could anyone get tired of island hopping in Greece?! ) On this day-long sailing adventure tour , you’ll travel to the islands of Agistri, Moni, and Aegina.

Your first stop is Agistri, which is best known for its beautiful beaches, and you betcha’ll have time to get your tan on in the sparkling waters and golden sands of Megalochori and Skala. Up for something a bit more active? Take a bike tour around some of the beaches on the island (then relax later on).

Next, you’ll head to Moni, an uninhabited nature island where you’ll eat lunch (seafood, anyone?!). This forested island has a ton of wildlife and is perfect for a tranquil, midday siesta. After you eat, you can sunbathe or snorkel in the waters nearby!

Your last stop will be Aegina, that same island we talked about in the other island hopping tour. There’s a reason why Aegina is on the itinerary of many sailing day trips from Athens (psst – it’s gorgeous). I won’t go too far in depth about Aegina, (since it’s covered it in the other section), but basically, it’s home to one of the most famous temples in Greece: the Temple of Aphaia.  Book sailing trip here  or check out the additional options below:

6. Seaside Winery Tour

• Distance from Athens: You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in Athens
• Activities You Can’t Miss : Wine tasting (duh!) and a lunch at an adorable seaside tavern
• Special Foods to Try: Traditional Greek snacks at the wineries and seafood dishes at the tavern!

What’s more dreamy or relaxing than sipping wine by the seaside? Umm…yeah, basically nothing. Luckily, day trips from Athens bring you to do exactly that: tasting delicious Greek wines along the Aegean Sea.

This delicious tour takes you to a few local wineries near Athens, and includes lunch in a delicious seaside tavern. Since you’ll be drinking alllll the wines and enjoying your life to the fullest (it is Greece afterall!), I strongly recommend booking that tour.

Why worry about driving, transportation, or logistics when you don’t have to? Instead, follow along someone else’s itinerary and just drink it all up and soak in that fresh Aegean air.

Greece is home to several unique red and white wine varieties, with names I’ve never heard anywhere else! On the tour , you can try white wines like Assyrtiko, Malagousia, and Savatiano. Savatiano, a white variety that’s native to Greece, is the most famous wine in the wine region near Athens and is produced in high numbers there.

You’ll also get to try some of the local red wines, like Agiorgitiko, as well as international varieties grown in Greece, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Please and thank you!

The tour will end at a locally-owned seafood tavern right on the water , where you can dine on delicious regional specialties and admire the sparkling seaside. Sounds like a relatively perfect day from Athens to me! Book seaside winery tour here.

• Distance from Athens: 50 miles/83 km
• Activities You Can’t Miss : Ancient Corinth, Temple of Apollo, Corinth Canal

Imagine the lavish cities of the ancient Greek civilization and you’ve got Corinth, one of the most rewarding Athens day trips for history and culture lovers! Located at the entrance to the Peloponnese Peninsula, you’ll find ancient marvels located next to the shine and sparkle of modern-day Corinth.

While the city itself has tons of restaurants and shops, your visit will truly feel special because of the ancient history that surrounds you!

Without a visit to the ancient areas of Corinth, it’s hard to understand the fascinating story of this place. Head to Ancient Corinth to catch a breathtaking glimpse of one of the most influential Classical cities, which was taken over by the Romans in 146 BC.

The ruins hold many remains of temples, homes, and government buildings, but quite possibly the most important is the Temple of Apollo, which still has a handful of standing columns.

Arcocorinth is another beautiful structure located on top of a hill in the Corinth area. It’s absolutely worth a visit if you’re in the area, even if you just snap a photo of this majestic fortress. Its walls climb in zig-zags up a hill and measure almost 2 kilometers in length! Quite impressive if you ask me.

While you’re in Corinth, don’t forget to visit the Corinth Canal! It’s one of the most interesting landmarks, and located ~4 kilometers east of the city. This is the canal that separates the Peloponnese Peninsula from the Greek mainland and is an incredibly picturesque spot, where the sparkling blue seawater juts between two vertical cliffs. While there isn’t much to do at the canal itself, it’s definitely worth a stop to see it and take a few photos!

While you can DIY this trip, there are also many agencies that offer day tours from Athens to Corinth. We recommend booking this day tour to save the hassle of getting back and forth from Athens. It also includes a local guide who can tell you all about the history of the places you’re seeing (better than any guidebook or travel blog can, I promise!) Book tour to Corinth here  or check out the additional options below:

8. Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon

• Distance from Athens: 46 miles/76 km

There are few things more relaxing than being by the seaside, and a day trip to Cape Sounio is no different. During a trip to Cape Sounio, you can lounge by the beach and frolic in the water, and also make a stop at the famed Temple of Poseidon, which is one of the most well-known temples in all of Greece.

Cape Sounio is also known for epic sunsets (which, not gonna lie, is what sold me on adding the cape to my never-ending bucket list!).

You can get to the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounio by bus fairly easily from Athens, which will give you the flexibility to travel at your own pace. However, if you’d rather have your transportation organized or go with a local driver/guide, you can book this half-day sunset tour from Athens , which is reasonably priced and organizes everything for you (and lets you have a glimpse of the gorgeous sunsets I mentioned before!).

During your visit to Cape Sounio, you can stop at the nearby Temple of Poseidon, which is still fairly intact even though it was built in 444-440 BC. Here, you’ll see tons of marble columns that made up the once lavish, extravagant temple. Even though the temple is the main thing to see here, there are ruins that extend down the hill — don’t miss out on the chance to explore further!

Once you get to Cape Sounio, it’s all sun and sand! Lined with high-end resorts, Cape Sounio is a hotspot for vacationers looking for a break from Athens. On the tour I recommended before , the guide will take you to a dedicated swimming spot where you can watch the sunset (swoooooon x 23436234).

If you DIY this trip, you may have a harder time finding a spot to swim, but there are plenty of seaside restaurants where you can take in the sunset views! Book half day sunset tour to Cape Sounio here  or check out the additional options below:

Are you headed to Greece soon? Which of these day trips from Athens are on your list to visit?

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Best Day Trips From Athens To: Ancient Sites – Islands – Towns

• Last Updated on: Jan 25, 2024
• Read Time 18 mins
• Published: Jun 2, 2020

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Are there any day trips from Athens worth taking during my vacation? That’s one of travelers’ most common questions before visiting the Greek capital. The answer is a resounding yes. The charms of Athens are not limited to the inner city’s borders.

Numerous thrilling locations lie just beyond the city limits, as well as other famous destinations that are easily within reach and waiting to be explored.

Tips and Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Day Trip From Athens

From graceful tiny islands and majestic ancient ruins to beautiful seaside landscapes and grandiose monasteries, here are some tips and answers to frequently asked questions for planning the most exciting day trips from Athens on your next vacation.

What Is The Best Day Trip From Athens?

Athens is conveniently located in the center of Greece, and countless locations near the city are great for city breaks and short excursions.

The most popular day trips from Athens are the following:

• Mycenae and Epidaurus
• Ancient Olympia
• Ancient Corinth
• The Saronic Gulf Islands of Hydra, Poros, Aegina, and Agistri
• Cape Sounion

This abundance of choices makes the question of the best day trip from Athens very difficult to answer.

It all comes down to your interests and how you would like to spend your time on your Athens vacation.

If you are a history buff looking for insight into the country’s culture, then you should choose one of the destinations that feature archaeological sites and museums like Delphi, Ancient Olympia, Ancient Corinth, and Mycenae.

If you’re longing to relax in a sunny place and enjoy a day sunbathing and swimming, then head for one of the islands close to Athens, like Agistri, Hydra, Aegina, and Poros, or the charming little seaside town of Nafplio.

Finally, for those of you who want to combine sightseeing with natural beauty, Meteora and Cape Sounion are the safest bets.

Apart from your interests, your choice should also depend on how long you are planning to stay in Athens, which brings us to the next question.

How Many Days Do You Need in Athens?

Most visitors tend to spend an average of three to four days in Athens before considering going on a day trip or embarking on a trip to a different destination in Greece.

A span of three or four days in Athens is ideal if you want to get a taste of life in the Greek capital and visit the most famous attractions like the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon .

Still, the city offers numerous attractions and unique experiences that can’t fit into such a short itinerary.

If you really want to explore Athens and all its charms, then we recommend you plan for a visit of about a week. This way, you’ll also be able to go on a day trip from Athens without missing out on anything it offers.

Which Greek Islands Do Day Trips From Athens?

This is another topic that frequently arises when planning a holiday to Athens. Who wouldn’t like to visit a Greek island while on holiday in Athens after all?

Most visitors ask if there are any islands close to Athens and what is the easiest way to get from Athens to the islands.

Luckily for you, we have all the answers. There are indeed several alluring islands that are close to Athens (within only two hours from the city center), which make perfect destinations for a day trip.

The most famous among them are:

• Kea (or Tzia)

All of the above islands are close to the city, but the island closest to Athens is Aegina , a charming islet with lovely architecture and picturesque harbors in the Saronic Gulf only 40 minutes away from the port of Piraeus .

In a small distance from Aegina, you’ll find the rest of the Saronic Gulf islands, namely Hydra, Spetses, Poros, and Agkistri. These are the closest and easiest islands to visit on a day trip from Athens.

As for the rest, the journey might take a little longer, but they are definitely worth a visit if you have enough time.

As for the best island for a day trip from Athens, we recommend that you visit more than one with a cruise in the Saronic Gulf.

Our tips for planning a day trip to the Saronic Gulf islands are below.

Day Trip from Athens to Delphi

A day trip from Athens to Delphi is beyond question one of the most popular tours in Greece.

In ancient times, Delphi was such a respected and important city that it was named the “center of the world” by ancient Greeks.

Its most prominent monument is the Temple of Apollo where citizens and oracles communicated with the Greek Gods and received messages and omens that defined the course of the region’s history.

Today, Delphi is a UNESCO-protected archaeological site with abundant sights and attractions, making it perfect for a refreshing day trip from Athens.

Things to see and do in Delphi

While visiting Delphi, you’ll get the chance to marvel at the famous archaeological site and the Temple of Apollo as well as several other important monuments including the ancient treasury of the Athenians, the Polygonal Wall, the Athenian Stoa, and the monument of Platea.

In addition, do not omit to pay a visit to the Delphi museum to get a glimpse of what life in ancient times looked like through intriguing exhibits like the Sphinx of Naxos, the famous bronze Charioteer of Delphi, and the statue of Antinoos.

How far is Delphi from Athens?

The small town of Delphi is approximately 160 kilometers (around 100 miles ) away from the Greek capital. Even though not one of the nearest destinations to Athens on this list, it’s just close enough for a day trip from Athens.

Traveling to Delphi from Athens by car would take around 2,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Delphi

The cheapest way to get from Athens to Delphi is by public bus (known as “KTEL” in Greece), and the most convenient is by private transfer or taxi. If you want to know more about getting around Athens, please read our detailed guide here.

The town of Delphi is not connected with the Greek capital via train or airplane, but for those of you who wouldn’t mind, private helicopter tours depart from Athens.

On the other hand, why waste your time planning? Check out some options for a guided tour from Athens to Delphi we found for you.

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to Delphi, please read the article below.

Unlocking Delphi: Your Ultimate Guide on How to Get from Athens to Delphi and Discover Hidden Treasures

Day trip from athens to cape sounion and the temple of poseidon.

When you travel to Athens, make sure to spend some time on a day trip to Cape Sounion.

Cape Sounion is one of the most fascinating locations you can find near the city center, offering a great opportunity for a short day trip from Athens. It is a beautiful peninsula on the southwestern coast of Athens that protrudes into the aquamarine waters of the Saronic Gulf.

Cape Sounion features the world-famous Poseidon Temple, astonishing sunset views, magnificent sandy beaches, and local taverns that serve mouthwatering fresh sea-to-table seafood.

Things to do and see in Cape Sounion

Start your visit by walking up to the famous Temple of Poseidon at the archaeological site of Sounion.

The temple is an ancient site of religious worship nestled on the top of a steep 65-meter (about 213 feet) tall cliff. Apart from its stunning architecture, the monument is also famous for its magical views while the sun sets in the sea. Dubbed as one of the most Instagrammable spots in Athens, Cape Sounion offers impeccable opportunities for some truly breathtaking photographs.

Moreover, Cape Sounion is an exceptional place to go swimming as several secluded sandy bays are near the archaeological site.

To finish off the perfect day trip to Sounio, head for one of the traditional taverns for a taste of local Greek cuisine.

How far is Cape Sounion from Athens?

Cape Sounion lies on the famous Athenian Riviera , approximately 77 kilometers (around 48 miles ) away from Athens. Its proximity to the city, especially the southern suburbs, makes it perfect for a day trip. Traveling to Cape Sounion from Athens by car would take a little over one hour .

How to get from Athens to Cape Sounion

You can visit Cape Sounion via bus (KTEL) or tram from the city center but there is no train connection from Athens.

In any case, it is highly recommended that you visit Cape Sounion with a guided tour, not only because your guide will provide valuable insight into the site’s history but also because the beautiful scenic route from Athens to Cape Sounion will be much more enjoyable with a private transfer.

Check out some options for a guided tour from Athens to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon.

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to the Temple of Poseidon, please read the article below.

How to Organize a Day Trip from Athens to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Day trip from athens to meteora.

Located in central Greece, Meteora has rightfully gained the reputation of one of the most unique destinations in Europe, a site that blends stunning mountainous landscapes, natural beauty, Byzantine architecture, and a rich cultural and religious heritage.

As a cultural site, Meteora and its six main active monasteries have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

A day trip from Athens to Meteora is a must for your itinerary on your trip to the Greek capital.

Things to do and see in Meteora

Unquestionably, no day trip to Meteora could ever be complete without a climb up the steep rock where the monasteries are standing. There are six different Byzantine monasteries atop the rock, all of which are open to the public.

A stroll through the monasteries’ interior and their wide terraces that offer unprecedented views over the valley below will make for an unforgettable experience.

Meteora is also one of the most popular outdoor adventure destinations in Greece. It offers numerous mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking opportunities with several exciting trails running through the rough landscape winding around abandoned monasteries and decades-old hermit caves.

Lastly, when visiting Meteora make sure to spend some time in the town of Kalambaka to visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora and the Mushroom Museum.

How far is Meteora from Athens?

The distance from Athens to Meteora is approximately 360 kilometers (around 224 miles ). Getting to Meteora from Athens by car would take about 4,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Meteora

The nearest town to Meteora that is connected to Athens is Kalambaka.

A public bus (KTEL) departs from Athens city center and arrives in the nearby town of Trikala. From there, there is another bus route reaching Kalambaka. Alternatively, you can hop on a train from the central train station of Athens (Larissa Station) and reach Kalambaka directly.

Finally, if you value convenience over budget, you can always book a guided tour to Meteora including a private transfer. If you’re looking for a guided tour with a private transfer from Athens to Meteora, we highly recommend this one from GetYourGuide.com .

And it gets better: We have screened the best options for a guided tour to Meteora. See all 6 monasteries of the Meteora rock formations.

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to Meteora, please read the article below.

How To Organize the Perfect Trip From Athens to Meteora

Day trip from athens to olympia.

Located in western Peloponnese, Olympia is one of the most famous locations in Greece for day trips from Athens for locals and tourists alike.

Olympia is so special -besides its astonishing natural beauty that is representative of southern Greece- that it was the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

In ancient times, Olympia was renowned as a place of profound religious and cultural importance.

Today, Olympia still attracts countless visitors looking for a glimpse of what life in ancient Greece was like during the event that would come to be a universal celebration of nobleness and sportsmanship.

Things to do and see in Olympia

The ancient stadium where the Olympic Games used to take place in ancient Greece should, of course, be on the very top of your bucket list when visiting Olympia. Still, there are many more attractions in this small charming town for you to explore.

Start off by strolling by the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera, two of the oldest remaining monuments in Greece.

Then head over to the neoclassical building that houses the Museum of the Ancient Olympic Games and finish off your visit by marveling at the exhibits of the Archaeological Museum of Olympia and the fascinating, visually rich Archimedes Museum.

On the way from Athens to Olympia, you’ll pass several popular spots of the Isthmus of Corinth, ancient Corinth, and Mycenae. Make sure to make short pit stops if you have enough time to explore what these sites offer.

How far is Olympia from Athens?

The distance between Athens and Olympia is approximately 250 kilometers (around 155 miles ). A one-way trip between Athens and Olympia by car lasts around 3,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Olympia

You can reach Olympia from Athens by bus (KTEL).

There are daily departures from Athens to the town of Pyrgos. You can hop on a local bus to get to Olympia from there. Alternatively, you can opt for a private transfer, making the drive significantly shorter.

There is no train or plane connection between Athens and Olympia.

Looking for a guided tour to Ancient Olympia? Check some options we found for you !

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to Ancient Olympia, please read the article below.

How to Go From Athens to Ancient Olympia On a Perfect Day Trip

Day trip from athens to saronic gulf islands.

One of the most frequently asked questions that visitors of Athens have for locals can be summed up to this: How near is the closest island to Athens and how can I get there?

Most of them are delighted to hear that it’s indeed possible to visit several islands from the city center of Athens. And here is the best news: It can take less than a couple of hours to transport from the hustle and bustle of downtown Athens to a charming little island with crystal-clear azure waters and sandy shores.

The Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf, encompassing the southern coasts of Attica, are famous for their aquamarine waters and beautiful islands.

The most popular among them are Salamina, Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Agistri.

Things to see and do in the Saronic Gulf Islands

Even though they are only a few minutes away, each of the islands close to Athens has a very distinct character, and hence, they attract different types of visitors.

Stunning neoclassical architecture, boutique shops, and a strict car-free policy make glamorous Hydra look like it’s frozen in time.

Lush pine tree forests and golden-sand beaches make Poros ideal for nature lovers.

Featuring ancient temples, pristine beaches, and a vivid culinary scene, Aegina island is your best bet if you’re looking for a combination of history, gastronomy, and beauty.

Spetses is a local favorite for city breaks, featuring secluded beaches and vibrant nightlife during summertime.

Finally, the tiny island of Agistri is great for swimming in crystal-clear waters, watersports, and long hikes in the green surroundings.

If you want to visit more than one island in a single day, it is highly recommended that you book a Saronic Gulf cruise!

How far are the Saronic Gulf Islands from Athens?

The trip duration between Athens and the islands of the Saronic Gulf can range from 45 minutes to two hours depending on your destination.

The island closest to Athens is Aegina, 45 minutes away, and the one farthest away from Athens is Spetses, approximately 2 hours away by ferry .

How to get from Athens to the Saronic Gulf Islands

Located very near the city center, all the islands of the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf present perfect opportunities for day trips from Athens.

None of the islands have an airport; they are accessible exclusively via boat.

The easiest way to get to the islands is by boarding a ferry at Piraeus port. You can easily reach the Piraeus port via the metro from the city center of Athens (green and blue line) and the Athens International Airport (blue line). After you get off at the Piraeus metro station, you only have to walk a few meters until you reach the port’s entrance.

Apart from ferries, there are also hydrofoil boats departing from Piraeus to some of the islands.

Tickets for both the ferries and the hydrofoils can be booked in advance.

The Ideal Day Trip From Athens to Saronic Gulf Islands

Day trip from athens to epidaurus, mycenae, and nafplio.

For those among you who consider yourself to be history buffs and are looking for ancient sites to explore out of the ordinary, a day trip to Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio is a must.

All of these exciting locations are located on the Argolis peninsula, one of the oldest inhabited regions in Greece that boasts an abundance of archaeological sites and -of course- amazing ocean views.

The Argolis region is just a few hours away from Athens in the southern part of the country called the Peloponnese, which is split from the mainland by the famous Corinth Canal.

Things to do in Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio

On this day trip, you’ll have the chance to visit two world-class UNESCO sites in a matter of just a few hours.

The first one is the Great Theater of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the country, an ancient theater known worldwide for its incredible acoustics.

The second is the historical archaeological site of Mycenae where you will find numerous monuments, including the Royal Tomb of King Agamemnon, the Treasury of Atreus, the Cyclopean Walls, and the Lion’s Gate.

On the way between the two sites, you can make a short stop at Nafplio, the original capital city of the modern Greek state.

There, you can marvel at the astonishing views of the fortress island of Bourtzi and the beautiful Venetian castle of Palamidi or even rest for a while for a refreshing lunch at a seafront restaurant.

On your way back to Athens, you’ll pass over the Corinth Canal which is an incredible attraction in its own right.

How far are Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio from Athens?

The distance from Athens to Epidaurus is approximately 125 kilometers (or about 77 miles ) and then you’ll need around 35 kilometers (or 21 miles ) to reach Nafplio and a final 23 kilometers ( or 14 miles ) to reach Mycenae.

A one-way trip to all of these destinations by car would last about 3,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio

You can get to the wider Argolis region with a public bus (KTEL Argolidas) or a public train (OSE) from downtown Athens. Both run a few times every day year-round.

You can also rent a car from Rentalcars.com or hire a taxi service to depart from the city center of Athens or even get to the small town of Kiato with the suburban railway (Proastiakos) and then continue with a taxi.

If you’re looking for the best and fastest way to get to these sites and depart on an incredible day trip from Athens to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio, we strongly recommend you take a look at this tour: Argolis – Full-Day Tour in Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio.

To sum it up, whether you can afford to spend several days away from the city center or even just a few hours, one thing is for certain: by choosing one of these best day trips from Athens, you are guaranteed to spruce up your holiday with an extraordinary experience.

Stay on the lookout for our extended guides on what to see and do in each destination and our tips for the best itineraries in and around Athens.

A Quick Reminder:

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Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Best Islands Near Athens Greece For Summer 2024

There are many beautiful Greek islands near Athens that you can easily visit on a day trip or a longer vacation. This guide lists some of the best island destinations close to Athens, and explains what to do and how to get there.

Best Greek islands close to Athens

Some Greek islands are very close to Athens, the Greek capital. You can get there in about an hour or two on the ferry from one of the ports in Athens.

These include the Saronic islands, like Aegina and Hydra, and a few of the Cyclades islands, like Andros and Tinos.

You can book your ferry tickets online on Ferryscanner , a search engine where you can easily compare routes, timetables and prices.

Other islands are further out, but are easily accessible on a quick domestic flight from the Athens airport. This includes the two most cosmopolitan islands, Santorini and Mykonos, but also Milos, Crete, Rhodes , Skiathos and a few more.

A few of these islands close to Athens are suitable to visit on a day trip. Most of them deserve more time, as there is lots to see and do. Here is some more information.

1. Aegina island, Saronic Gulf

Aegina is the island closest to Athens. The sea dolphin from Piraeus port only takes 40 minutes to get to Aegina.

The island offers a good mix of history and nature. It’s a popular weekend destination with Athenians, and many of them own summer houses there.

Some of the highlights in Aegina include:

• The ancient sanctuary of Aphaia, built around 500-490 BC
• Agios Nektarios monastery, one of the biggest in Greece
• The historic Paleochora, a medieval city with 40 Byzantine churches where you can see well preserved frescoes and icons
• Aegina town, with its narrow streets, colourful houses, traditional taverns and horse-drawn carriages
• Perdika, a small village with whitewashed houses and amazing sunset views
• Moni, an uninhabited islet just across Perdika village, where you can enjoy nature at its best.

Most of the beaches in Aegina, like Agia Marina or Klima, have tourist facilities. Still, you can also find a few secluded coves and natural beaches, like Kolona beach.

Overall, Aegina is an ideal destination for a day trip, but there’s enough to keep you occupied for a few days.

2. Agistri island, Saronic Gulf

Agistri is a tiny island a short ferry ride from Aegina. Sea dolphins from the port of Piraeus take about an hour to get to Agistri.

Despite its proximity to Athens, Agistri is more relaxed than many other Greek islands. It’s a great destination if you’re looking for peace and quiet, combined with some of the best beaches in the Saronic Gulf.

Here is a selection of the best things to do in Agistri:

• Explore the idyllic beaches with crystal-clear waters, such as Mariza, Aponisos, Halikiada and Dragonera beach
• Rent a bicycle and cycle around the island
• Enjoy a hike through the dense pine forests
• Have a coffee or meal at one of the waterfront tavernas in Scala and Megalochori ports

Among the islands close to Athens, Agistri is probably the best if you want to escape the city life and spend time in nature. It’s suitable for a day trip, though people who like sandy beaches can easily spend a few days here.

There are also day trips to Aegina, Agistri and the uninhabited Moni island .

3. Poros, Saronic islands

Poros, another Saronic island, is located just off the coast of the Peloponnese. It is 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Piraeus port on the flying dolphin.

Along with the nearby islands of Aegina and Hydra, Poros is often included in island hopping day trips from Athens . This is an alternative way to travel if you don’t want to rely on Greek ferries.

Here are a few of the best things to do in Poros:

• Walk around the bustling port town and check out the elegant mansions and century-old clock tower
• Visit the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon
• Stop by the Archeological Museum and explore the history of Poros
• Admire the frescoes in St George’s Cathedral
• Pass by the impressive Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

Poros is one of the greenest Saronic islands and many of the beaches have natural shade. Visitors who like nature can explore the island on foot or by bicycle, and swim in the crystal clear waters.

4. Hydra, Saronic islands

Hydra is one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands. At only an hour and a half on the flying dolphin from Piraeus, it’s a popular weekend destination for Athenians.

Known for its rich history and traditional architecture, Hydra is also an ideal destination for people who want to relax. The lack of motor vehicles on the island will make you think you’ve travelled back in time.

Here are some of the highlights of Hydra:

• The main town, with the impressive mansions and historical museums
• DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art, which hosts temporary art exhibitions
• The hiking paths, leading to quiet nature and various beaches
• The monastery of Prophet Elias and the nearby convent of Saint Eupraxia
• A half-day trip to the nearby islet of Dokos.

5. Spetses, Saronic islands

Spetses is another one of the Saronic islands. It’s the furthest one from Piraeus port, as it takes 2 hours and 15 minutes to get there on the sea dolphin.

The island is famous for its rich naval history, related to the Greek Independence Day , and it cosmopolitan culture. Ιt’s a popular island near Athens, not least due to its developed tourist infrastructure and the lack of motor vehicles.

Here are the best things to do in Spetses:

• Walk around the port town, and enjoy its vintage charm and beautifully restored mansions
• Visit the Laskarina Bouboulina museum, dedicated to the inspiring woman who was the first female admiral in the world
• Visit the quaint churches at Kasteli, the oldest neighbourhood in the town
• Sit at a cafe or taverna at the cosmopolitan Dapia quarter
• Enjoy activities like horse riding, cycling and swimming

6. Andros island, Cyclades

Andros is the closest island to Athens from Rafina port, which is located an hour out of the city center. Fast ferries from Rafina to Andros take one hour, while conventional ferries take two hours.

Andros is the second largest island in the Cyclades, after Naxos. It’s a wild, mountainous island with over 170 beautiful beaches, lovely small villages and many things to do.

Here are a few of the highlights in Andros:

• The Venetian castle in Chora, the capital town of Andros
• The Archaeological museum and Contemporary art museum in Chora
• A museum dedicated to olives and olive oil production, the Cyclades Olive Museum, in Ano Pitrofos
• The amazing Panachrantou Monastery
• The long hiking trails
• All the stunning beaches and beautiful coves on the island.

You can easily spend a week in Andros, and not run out of things to do. For more information, check this article on the best things to do in Andros Greece .

Also, check out our book on Andros and Tinos in Greece !

7. Tinos island, Cyclades

Tinos is another beautiful island in the Cyclades. It only takes a couple of hours to get there on the ferry from the port of Rafina, which is an hour out of central Athens.

Tinos is best known as a religious destination, and an island with dozens of quaint traditional villages. Add to this several stunning beaches, a unique marble crafting heritage and local culinary traditions, and Tinos can easily become your next favourite Greek island.

Here are a few of the best things to do in Tinos:

• Spend some time in the iconic Lady of Tinos church, located in the island’s capital city
• Rent a car and tour the amazing villages, like Pyrgos, Ysternia, Kardiani, Agapi and Volax
• Stop by the Marble Crafts Museum at Pyrgos, and learn more about this unique art
• Visit the Kechrovouniou monastery, and the Ursulines convent at Loutra village
• Enjoy the incredible secluded beaches
• Attend the masses and Greek panigiria on 15th August , one of the most important day of the year for Greek celebrations

Overall, Tinos is a wonderful place to explore and absorb the local culture. Here is more information on what to do in Tinos Greece . 

Note: Andros, Tinos and Mykonos are on the same ferry line, so you can easily combine them on an island hopping trip .

8. Kea / Tzia island, Cyclades

Kea, also known as Tzia, is the closest Cycladic island to Athens. The ferry from Lavrio port, which is located close to Cape Sounion , only takes one hour to get to Kea.

Kea doesn’t look like most of the other Cycladic islands. Instead of the iconic white-washed houses and blue-domed churches, you will see buildings made of stone, painted in earthy colours.

Here are a few of the highlights of Kea:

• The beautiful main town of Ioulida, where you can visit the castle and archaeological museum
• The archaeological site of Ancient Karthea
• Small, picturesque villages like Otzias, Korissia and Vourkari
• Lovely beaches like Korrisia, Koundouros and Gialiskari

Despite the fact that Kea is so close to Athens, it has kept its traditional character. This makes it an interesting place to visit, either for a day trip or for longer.

9. Milos, Cyclades 

If you are familiar with the geography of Greece, you may be surprised to find Milos in the list of islands near Athens. Yet, the beautiful island is only a short 40-minute flight from the Athens airport.

Milos offers a great mix of activities. Here are the best things to do in Milos:

• Take an amazing sailing tour to Kleftiko Bay
• Swim and sunbathe at some of the most spectacular beaches in Greece
• Hike up the Venetian castle in Plaka , the capital town
• See the catacombs and the ancient Roman theatre
• Explore the various quaint villages in Milos
• See the replica of the ancient sculpture of Venus de Milo, in the local Archeological Museum
• Learn about the island’s history in the Milos Mining Museum
• Hike to the iconic Kleftiko beach – only for active travellers!

Here are a couple of Milos guides that you’ll find useful:

• Reasons to visit Milos
• How to get around Milos

Also, you can check out our book on Milos and Kimolos , available on Amazon!

10. Santorini, Cyclades 

Santorini is one of the most iconic Greek islands, and one of the most popular tourist destinations year round. Located in the Cyclades islands, it’s only a short 45-50 minute flight from the Athens airport.

Santorini offers a mix of activities, from beaches and relaxed nightlife to history and culture. Here are just a few of the best things to do in Santorini:

• Hike from Fira to Oia village and take in the magnificent views
• Take a sailing cruise around the island
• Visit the archaeological site of ancient Akrotiri
• Climb the impressive volcano
• Visit one or more of the wineries in Santorini
• Hire a car and stop at the quaint villages in Santorini

For more tips on Santorini, have a look at these other guides:

• What to do in Santorini in 4 days
• How many days do you need in Santorini

11. Mykonos, Cyclades

Mykonos is one of the most popular islands in Greece, and for good reason. It’s well known for its wild nightlife, stunning sandy beaches and sprawling capital town.

There are several ways to get to Mykonos from Athens. These include a 50-minute flight from the Athens airport, and a 2.5-hour fast ferry from the port at Rafina.

Here are the best things to do in Mykonos:

• Stroll around the beautiful town of Mykonos, with its maze of narrow streets
• Explore all the stunning sandy beaches around the island, like Paradise, Super Paradise, Platis Gialos, Agia Anna, Elia and Lia
• Experience the lively nightlife in the town of Mykonos
• …or escape the party crowds by taking a kayaking trip around the coast – I loved it!!
• Take a half-day trip to Ancient Delos , an amazing archaeological site

For more information on Mykonos and Delos, check out these articles:

• Mykonos without the crowds
• An amazing tour of Ancient Delos

Finally, here is a 7-day itinerary for Athens, Santorini and Mykonos .

How to get to the ports in Athens

As mentioned earlier, Athens has three main ferry ports: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrion. Here is a map showing the ports in Athens in relation to the airport and the city center.

Piraeus port

Piraeus port is the main port in Athens. It is located about 10 kms south-west from Syntagma Square in central Athens.

Piraeus is a big, chaotic port with several gates that are quite spread out. You will need to check which gate your ferry is departing from – this information should be on your ferry ticket.

This map of Piraeus port shows all the gates. E5, E6 and E7 are very close to Piraeus metro station, while other gates are further away.

You can get to Piraeus on the Athens metro , the Athens airport bus , or on a pre-booked taxi . The taxi will drop you off near your departure gate, so it’s much better if you have lots of luggage.

The blue metro line takes about an hour to get to Piraeus metro station from the Athens Airport , passing by Syntagma and Monastiraki on the way. Depending on which gate you are departing from, allow at least twenty minutes to get to your ferry from the metro station.

Rafina port

Rafina is the second largest port in Athens. It is located about 32 kms from the centre of the city. It’s a small port, that is a lot more user friendly than the bustling Piraeus.

To get to Rafina, you will need to take a KTEL bus from Nomismatokopio metro station, on the blue line. Alternatively you can pre-book a taxi. This should take an hour or a little longer from central Athens, and would cost about 30-40 euro.

If you are catching a ferry right after you’ve landed at the Athens airport, you’ll be pleased to know that Rafina is much closer than Piraeus. A taxi from the airport would take around 20 minutes.

Lavrio port

Lavrio port is located about 60 kms south of Athens. It’s the most remote port in Athens, and getting there from the city centre can take you well over an hour, depending on traffic.

You can get to Lavrio on a KTEL bus, which departs from Nomismatokopio metro station, on the blue line. The easiest way is to book a taxi, which would usually cost about 50-60 euro. 

Allow at least an hour to get to Lavrio on a taxi, or longer if you are going by bus.

FAQs about islands near Athens

Here are a few questions visitors often ask:

What islands are nearest to Athens?

The islands that are geographically closest to Athens are the Saronic islands, especially Aegina and Agistri.

Which is the best island near Athens?

Some of the best islands near Athens include Aegina, Hydra, Spetses, Andros, Tinos and Santorini. It depends what you are looking for!

What islands are a day trip from Athens?

The best islands for a day trip from Athens are the Saronic islands, Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses, and the Cycladic island of Kea or Tzia.

Which Greek island is easiest to get to?

Many islands in Greece are easy to get to. Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Kos and Zakynthos are among the easiest islands to get to. There are international flights from several European airports, and domestic flights from the airport in Athens.

What is the best time to visit Greek islands?

The weather in Greece is warmer between Greek Easter, which is in April or May, and late October. July and August are the warmest months, but also the most crowded and expensive. Overall, if you are interested in spending time on the beach but don’t want the crowds, the best months to visit the Greek islands are June and September.

Have a look at this detailed article: Best time to visit the Greek islands .

How many Greek islands are there?

Greece has 119 inhabited islands , which are located east, south and west of mainland Greece. Here is an introduction to the different Greek island groups .

More Greece travel guides

• Day trips from Athens
• Athens to Thessaloniki by train
• How to take the Athens airport metro
• What to pack for Greece
• Driving in Greece
• Best Greek islands in October
• Things to do on a Sunday in Athens
• Shopping in Athens

Hi! I’m Vanessa from Athens and I love travelling around the Greek islands. If you only have a few days in Greece, these islands close to Athens are great destinations to visit. For more information and news about Greece, follow my FB page and FB group .

4 thoughts on “Best Islands Near Athens Greece For Summer 2024”

We are 80 and active and spent two wonderful weeks at the old town in Chania and are seeking a similar experience on another Greek island. We loved the food and shopping and the time flew bye . There are so many islands so we need your input. Enjoy September and two weeks is all the dog sitter can take our 4 dogs. Help!

Hi and thanks so much for your question! I believe you would love Rhodes town with the impressive medieval castle, there’s lots to do there. You can also take day trips to the south of the island, and spend a few days in Symi (or at least take a day trip) Symi town is very hilly, lots of stairs, but the area around the port is lovely, especially in the evening when the daytrippers have left. Another option would be Naxos , you can stay in Naxos town and take buses to many parts of the island. The town is probably not as impressive as Rhodes old town, but in my experience the food is some of the best in Greece 🙂 Feel free to get back to me if you want to discuss further!

Hi, Hope your well. I’m planning a week long trip to Athens and neighbouring islands in summer July- august. I will be travelling with my husband and kids 11,6 and 3. I’d be very grateful for recommendations- I’d like to visit all the historical sites and spend some time shopping! Look forward to hearing from you Many thanks Rohina

I’ll send you a pm!

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Editor's Pick

All within an hour or two from Athens, these five Argosaronic destinations will offer you a rich cultural, culinary and seaside experience.

© SHUTTERSTOCK

5 Charming Island Day Trips from Athens

Pack your sun lotion, throw on a hat and skip onto a boat for a refreshing, technicoloured escape from urbanity..

Alexia Amvrazi | June 2nd, 2022

Where else can you take a short taxi or metro ride to a port and within just an hour or two , hop out and get a lung-full of the invigorating sea air on an island with a plethora of things to see and do? The Argosaronic islands are easy (and affordable) to reach and each one has its own singular history, rich culture, culinary style and plenty of varied landscapes to explore.

Here we guide you to Poros, Aegina, Spetses, Agistri and Hydra and suggest the best places to visit for a swim, food, nature and culture.

© Shutterstock

Often described as picturesque because of its quaint neoclassical and Venetian architecture , tall clock tower and lush greenery, amphitheatrically-shaped Poros was once made up of the islands Spheria and Kalavria. The bustling port is lined with cafes, tavernas and shops, its promenade overlooking the Peloponnesian mountains, and a main town that’s ideal for long strolls along pretty cobblestone alleyways.

For a refreshing swim in crystalline waters and a pine tree backdrop, go to Love Bay . At the larger, serviced Askeli Beach you’ll find watersports and sun loungers as well as a few tavernas for a hearty lunch. A little further on, traverse the forest to reach Monastiri Beach . If you prefer pebble beaches, visit Vagionia , with cool, clear waters.

Vassilis , at Megalo Neoriou Beach, is an old fashioned, classic taverna from 1939 serving tasty, home-cooked traditional fare. For more local dishes visit Platanos in the chora, known for its roast lamb and kokkoretsi (lamb intestines on a spit). For a more contemporary menu and cosmopolitan vibe head to Askeli all-day restaurant, which serves classic Greek and Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.

Visit the northern part of Poros to see the site of the Temple of Poseidon (520 BC). At the Archaeological Museum in Koritzi Square in the chora see the finds from this site as well as items from Trizina, Kalavreia and Methana. Grab a pedalo or a boat and visit heart-shaped Daskalio island, or view it at a distance from the Russian Dockyard , built in 1834 and declared a historical monument in 1989.

Read more about Poros here.

Vassilis: Neorio Beach, Tel. (+30) 22980.239.24. Platanos: Iroon Square, Tel. (+30) 22980.266.61. Askeli: Askeli Beach, Tel. (+30) 22980.262.85.

Archaeological Museum of Poros: Korizi Square, Tel. (+30) 22980.232.76. Closed Tuesdays .

Known for its delicious pistachios (and the pistachio ice cream you can try at stores around the island), wonderful archaeological monuments and close proximity to Athens (less than one hour), Aegina is an ideal stop for a swim, sightseeing and a fresh fish lunch.

Families often prefer Marathonas for its clear, shallow waters and being nearby to the main town. If you’d like to combine your swim with a seafood lunch, head to Perdika , which is lined with fish tavernas, while silence-seekers should visit the pebble beach in the village of Portes , which has a small marina and refreshing pine trees.

Kriton Gefseis in the main town serves home-cooked classics, while NOA restaurant on the pier, run by the island’s nautical club, has since the 1960s served Greek-Mediterranean food in beautiful seaside surroundings. For Greek cuisine with modern and creative touches, visit Kappos Etsi in the backstreets of the main town, and don’t miss out on Skotadis , a taverna-ouzerie that has been the favorite hangout of many artists since the post-war years and overlooks the water across the road.

There is much to see on Aegina but by far the most famous site is at the Temple of Aphaia , which, together with the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio and the Parthenon in Athens is said to be one of the three points of a perfect isosceles triangle. Another ancient site to visit is the Temple of Apollo , also known for the single column that remains standing as “kolona.” For a more in-depth study of the island’s history, visit the Archaeological Museum on the site where you can see finds from the above-mentioned sites as well as items from the Neolithic era. Another museum well worth a visit for art lovers is the Christos Kapralos Museum , once the workshop of the renowned Greek sculptor.

To get a feeling of the island’s cultural character and history, go to the Folklore Museum where traditional costumes and the household items and furnishings, books and maps of Aegina’s inhabitants through the ages are housed. Nature lovers can hop onto a boat and visit Moni islet right across Perdika fishing village, inhabited by peacocks, deer and wild birds, and is ideal for snorkeling.

Read more about Aegina here.

Kriton Gefseis: Ireioti Panagi & Damonos, Tel. (+30) 2297.0262.55. NOA restaurant: Aegina harbour, Tel. (+30) 22970.244.88. Kappos Etsi: : 9 Ireioti Panagi, Tel. (+30) 22970.272.19. Skotadis: 46 Dimikratias Avenue, Tel. (+30) 22970.24.014.

Archaeological Museum of Aegina: 1 Patriarchou Grigoriou, Tel. (+30) 22970.222.48. Christos Kapralos Museum: northwest side of Chora, Tel. (+30) 22970.220.01 Folklore Museum of Aegina: 16 Spyrou Rodi, Chora, Tel. (+30) 22970.264.01

Notably developed and modernised for tourism over the past few decades but still sweet, authentic and down-to-earth. Situated between Aegina and Methana (which is near Poros), the small island can be reached by boats arriving either at the touristy, bustling town of Skala, or at Megalochori, which is the main town. Culture vultures won’t find much to do on Agistri but if you’re looking for a pretty place to camp out on a beach for the day, this is just the ticket.

If you really want to take it easy, just rent a sun lounger at Skala , where you can order food from the hotels there straight to the beach or visit one of the nearby tavernas. For a less busy ambience, visit Dragonera , a quiet coastline surrounded by pine trees and favored by campers, or Halkida , which is a little harder to reach and thus popular among nudists who enjoy the large white rocks and clear waters. Meanwhile at Aponissos you’ll have to pay a low fee to enter but can enjoy soaking up the rays on large rocks with ladders leading into the cool water.

For a tasty fish dinner head to Alkyoni on the road to Halkida and dine on a terrace surrounded by lush greenery right on the sea. For traditional Greek foods like ladera (oil based dishes), moussaka, fish and meat stews, go to Toxotis in Skala. Oasis Seaside Club is for those who’d like to switch things up a bit by indulging in some modern Greek-Mediterranean fine dining, while Quattro Beach Bar will make your kids happy with its burgers, nuggets, sandwiches and sumptuous desserts. Talking of desserts, Copa Cabana is known for its delicious waffles, cakes and pies.

A lovely way to end your day on Agistri is by sipping a cocktail at a beach bar or taking a horse and carriage ride in Skala while enjoying the sunset; or you can visit Limenaria village nearby for particularly rewarding panoramic views of the nearby islands. If you’re in Agistri on July 7th, this village comes to life with the Agia Kyriaki folk festival. For more spectacular views, head to the northern part of the island and trek up to Metochi where you’ll see traditional Cycladic style whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows, and splashes of colourful flowers.

Read more about Agistri here.

Alkyoni: Sklyri, Skala, Tel. (+30) 22970.913.77. Toxotis: Skala, Tel. (+30) 22970.912.83. Oasis Sea Club: Skala, Tel. (+30) 22970.910.85. Quattro: Beach road, Skala, Tel. (+30) 22970.914.47. Copa Cabana: Ioannou Metaxa, Skala, Tel. (+30) 22970.914.56.

Cosmopolitan, picturesque and romantic, it’s no surprise that Hydra has seduced writers, musicians, poets and artists with its singular allure for decades, and continues to do so today (check out Hydra Direct ). Indeed, Henry Miller wrote: “Hydra is a rock which rises out of the sea like a huge loaf of petrified bread. It is the bread turned to stone which the artist receives as reward for his labour when he fist catches sight of the promised land.” 

Despite its many charms, the car-free island is not famous for its beaches, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a gratifying swimming destination. Visitors on Hydra commonly relax on the rocks, lying out at Hydronetta and Spilia or in the bay in front of Castello bar-restaurant, while Vlychos fishing village near Hydra town has a sandy serviced beach with straw umbrellas. On the western side of the town is Molos beach. Water taxis and caiques leaving from Roloi in the centre of the port can transport you to various sandy coves. For watersports, visit Bisti or Agios Nikolaos pebbled beach, both of which also offer sun loungers and umbrellas for rent.

For traditional Greek classics, visit Xeri Elia, To Paradosiakon  or Taverna Christina, while seafood lovers should visit Psaropoula . For a sunset cocktail overlooking the sea visit Omilos (the yacht club) and sit on the seafront terrace that was a diving spot for party-animal artists in the 1960s. For true romance and elegant dining visit Sunset, where you can savour an aperitif at glow-time and modern Greek-Mediterranean cuisine, while for Greek as well as ethnic and vegan food visit Manna , a “new age cookhouse.”

Start at the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra to discover the important role the island played in the Greek War of Independence. Art lovers should visit the School of Fine Arts on Hydra, located in the manor of Admiral Emmanoiul Tompatzis and Xanthi Sachini since 1936. Also interesting is the large yellow Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum , a neoclassical mansion-turned-museum, once the home of a prominent politician where visitors can get a glimpse of the island’s 19th century society and history. For a scenic view over the port and a connection to Hydra’s history, walk up to the cannons on the bastions of Hydra , positioned on a high rock at the entrance of the island in the 18th century to protect it from the Ottomans.

Read more about Hydra here.

Xeri Elia: Douskos, Hydra town, Tel. (+30) 22980.528.86. Psaropoula: 237 Sokratous, Tel. (+30) 22980.525.73. To Paradosiakon: 8 Tompatzi, Tel. (+30) 22980.541.55. Taverna Christina: Kamini, Hydra town, Tel. (+30) 22980.535.16. Omilos: Hydra port, Tel. (+30) 22980.538.00. Sunset: Tel. (+30) 22980.520.67. Manna: 8 Tompatzi, Hydra town, Tel. (+30) 22980.537.75.

Historical Archives Museum of Hydra, Hydra town, Tel. (+30) 22980.523.55. Tombatzis Mansion, Hydra town, Tel. (+30) 22983.202.00. Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum, Hydra town, Tel. (+30) 22980.524.21.

Historic, elegant and scenic, Spetses played a leading role in the Greek War of Independence and was the favourite summer playground for Greece’s aristocracy during the early 20th century. Like Hydra and Poros, the island’s allure has inspired artists and writers over the decades and even today the island is a favourite among the high-brow crowd. Enjoy exploring the narrow streets in Dapia, sit at the marina or the terrace of the luxurious Grand Poseidon Hotel to sip coffee looking out to the sea, and visit its many beaches and museums for a rewarding cultural experience.

For a swim near the picturesque port, swim at Agiou Mamma , a sandy serviced beach close to several cafes and tavernas, while left of the port is Kounoupitsa , in the island’s historic district. On the southeast side of Spetses is Agia Marina , one of the island’s most popular and lively swimming spots. Outside of the town is the quieter pebbled beach of Ligorneri , while for those seeking a more natural (non-serviced) and peaceful swim, there’s Zogeria Bay , which is surrounded by a pine forest and olive groves. Vrelos and Kaiki beaches attract a more youthful crowd.

Many of Spetses’ best restaurants are in the main town and old town, which are reachable by foot (or you can visit by taking a horse and carriage ride, one of the most enjoyable experiences to have on the island, especially around sunset). With tables set out on a concrete deck over the water, Mourayio is a favourite classic among returning visitors old and new and serves traditional Greek food. Tarsanas too, has quite the fanbase for its delicious and fresh range of seafood and local specialties, as do Patralis and Pachni .

On The Veranda at the Grand Poseidon Hotel, try modern and sophisticated Greek-Mediterranean cuisine and if you’d like to splash out visit Liotrivi for classic as well as modern renditions of Greek cooking using fresh local ingredients.

Spetses is very much represented by a fierce feminist icon, the Greek naval commander Laskarina Bouboulina, who was a leading figure in the fight against the Ottomans during the Greek War of Independence. Visit the Bouboulina Museum to see her own and her family’s home and belongings, as well as maps, documents and other historical items. Also visit her statue, standing tall on the seafront promenade at Dapia. At the Spetses Museum , also known as the Hatzigianni Mexi Mansion , see an exhibition of items such as ceramics, furnishings, paintings and more that relate the culture, traditions and 4000 years of history of the island.

Read more about Spetses here.

Mourayio: Old Town, Tel. (+30) 22980.737.00. Tarsanas: Old harbour, Tel. (+30) 22980.744.90. Patralis: Kounoupitsa, Tel. (+30) 22980.753.80. To Pachni: Kokkinaria, Tel. (+30) 22980.752.99. On the Veranda: Dapia, Grand Poseidon Hotel, Tel. (+30) 22980.745.53. Liotrivi: Old harbour, Tel. (+30) 22980.722.69.

Bouboulina Museum: Pefkakia, Tel. (+30) 22980.720.77. Spetses Museum: Dapia, Tel. (+30) 22980.720.77. Hatzigianni Mexi Mansion: Dapia, Tel. (+30) 22980.729.94.

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One of the beauties of traveling to Athens is a captivating cruise to the magical islands of the Saronic Gulf. Athens Day Cruises offers you the beauty of a day cruise to three islands, Hydra, Poros and Aegina with the promise of a world of pleasures on board. Your Greek island cruise from Athens begins with the colors of the sea, fresh salt air and the gentle breeze of the Saronic Gulf to heighten your senses. Imagine a day filled with golden moments on a day cruise from Athens, island hopping from Hydra, Poros and Aegina, aboard Athens Day Cruises, spacious, 3-deck cruise ships with every comfort and convenience to meet your expectations.

Our live orchestra welcomes you on board with traditional Greek music and international favourites. You’ll enjoy an optional breakfast on deck and delight in our well-balanced menu with Greek local products, including fresh fruit, yogurt and local honey. Lounging on our decks is an exceptional experience surrounded by the legendary blue waters of the Saronic Gulf. You’ll appreciate many activities on board, such as listening to music while sipping your special cocktail, dancing and the fun of taking a Greek dance lesson. Our lunch buffet offers you an exceptional culinary experience featuring a variety of authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine accompanied by local wines (optional).

You can shop in our Tax Free store with a wide selection of prestigious Greek and international brands. If a day trip from Athens to the Greek islands is top on your wishlist, Athens Day Cruises 3 island tour is the perfect match for your cruising enjoyment.

Our special interest tours led by multilingual guides introduce you to the history and culture of Hydra and Aegina, with all the fun to suit your mood. We welcome you to join us for a unique journey of the senses on Athens Day Cruises one day cruise to three Saronic Islands for a full day of fun, culture and culinary discovery.

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4 Greek Island Hopping Routes From Athens

Hopping from one Greek island to the next is the most quintessential way of discovering Greece’s overwhelming charm. The country is blessed with so much sea; more than any other country in the Mediterranean. It has a massive coastline with over 200 inhabited Greek islands, and the total of all islands and isles that make up the entire Greek Archipelago is a mind-blowing 6000. These statistics are excluding the countless coastal spots that share similar attributes with the islands, some of which harbour striking remnants of a diverse cultural heritage as well as fabulous beaches. It, therefore, goes without saying that Greek island hopping is a must. However, for someone unfamiliar with Greece, organising Greek island hopping routes can be confusing. So, if you are looking for Greek island hopping routes from Athens, here are 4 proposed itineraries that will reveal the full magnitude of Greece’s unfathomable natural and cultural wealth.

Saronic islands - Poros | Aegina | Hydra | Spetses

The closest island cluster to Athens is the Saronic, and it includes the islands of Salamina, Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses. Being so close to Athens, ranging from less than an hour to up to two hours by ferry, these islands are, on the one hand, overlooked by foreigners who will tend to choose the more high profile Greek islands, yet often frequented by Athenians, seeking a short escape from the city. 

Donkeys are still the main way of transport on the island of Hydra

Autumn colours in Hydra, October is a great time to visit

Poros is known for its Lemon Forest while Aegina, which is renowned for its pistachio production, is a must-visit although one could argue it is not one of the more beautiful islands to behold. The most picturesque of the islands mentioned above are definitely Hydra and Spetses, with their colourful array of beautiful, traditional mansions. Getting to the Saronic islands is an easy feat from Athens. You can opt for a  one-day sailing trip to the Saronic islands  and include up to three islands in a single excursion, or you can island hop at your own leisure and pace since most of these islands have excellent connections between them. What you will find these islands have in common is a rustic, vintage air about them; don't expect opulence or over the top luxury. Instead, you will experience a most refreshing flashback to Greece of the 1960s. 

Cycladic islands - Santorini | Mykonos | Paros | Folegandros | Koufonisia

Oia, Santorini is a magical place with its windmills and whitewashed buildings

The famous blue domes of Santorini

The most famous island cluster in Greece, home to the glamorous Mykonos, the dreamy Santorini, the laid-back Paros and the demure Folegandros, the no man’s island of Poliegos or the secluded Koufonisia, among many others. The Cyclades have a healthy mix between cosmopolitan destinations and others that are more authentic, where life has been mostly unaffected by mass appeal. Twenty major islands and nearly as many minor or secondary islands make up the sensational Cyclades that are aggregately responsible for the typical white & blue colour palette that most people often associate the Greek islands with. Cubist buildings, dome churches, quaint fishing villages and largely barren, wind-swept, rocky terrains are prevalent in the Cyclades. And although the islands of this cluster share these structural characteristics, each place exudes a unique aura of its own that defines it beyond its overarching Cycladic traits. 

Relatively easy to reach from Athens due to their popularity, connections from the main port of Athens, Piraeus, to the Cyclades are frequent, however, can take up to 4 hours or more. The most convenient alternative is to fly to each island that has an airport (Santorini, Mykonos, Paros & Naxos) which will save you valuable transfer time. However, the best way to island-hop in the Cyclades is to either reach your preferred island and book a  multi-day Cyclades island charter  or book your  Cyclades island cruise from Athens . This will depend on how many days you can spend island hopping, how comfortable you are continually being on the move as well as your budget. However, there is one thing that these types of island hopping routes by sea have as a distinct advantage; it is a convenience of boarding just once while being able to visit a handful of destinations.   

The small and picturesque fishing village of Naoussa in Paros

Drying the octopus in the picturesque fishing village of Naousa in Paros

Ionian islands - Corfu | Paxoi | Zakynthos | Kefalonia

Corfu has some stunningly beautiful scenario

Mouse Island, Corfu

Church located inside Old Venetian Fortress

Onto the other side of Greece that is graced by the tropical-esque Ionian sea and its exotic-looking shores. Fine white and dusky pink sands that are lapped by the smooth waves of crystalline waters create staggering visuals that are simply awe-inspiring. Swimming in the Ionian waters is like swimming in a turquoise pool, and that is no exaggeration, while the coastline is full of secret coves and water caves. Your Greek island hopping route itinerary in the Ionian should cover at least two significant islands (Corfu, Lefkada, Zakynthos & Kefalonia) and definitely the twin isles of Paxoi (Paxos & Antipaxos). The fastest way to reach one of the major Ionian islands from Athens is by flight and takes around an hour. The alternative is to drive 6 hours to Igoumenitsa and then a 1- 2 hour ferry ride, which is perhaps not the best use of your time unless you really enjoy road trips. 

From your chosen major island, you can then make arrangements to hop over to the others. For example, a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos from Corfu takes about 1-1.5 hours after which you will arrive at a liquid, azure oasis that will instantly beckon you to dive into its transparent depths. But these kinds of waters are not unique to the Paxoi isles. Among the many shimmering shores that the Ionian can boast about, Zakynthos’ (or Zante’s) top highlight is the shipwreck beach while Kefalonia is home to some of the most stunning beaches, Myrtos, as well as having the astonishing, natural dome-shaped, Melissani sea cave.  

Aerial view of Zakynthos Shipwreck or Navagio Bay, close to Anafotiria village

Northern Aegean islands - Thassos | Samothrace | Icaria

Sunset view to Chalkidiki from Thassos Island

Mediterranean touches in every home in Thassos Island

One of the least known clusters, the North Aegean islands are most suited to those who prefer to leave the world behind and reset in a setting where time runs slowly. In this corner of Greece, you can expect unspoiled, pristine scenery, an abundance of nature and cute little settlements mostly frequented by locals of Greek nationals who want to steer clear of tourist-packed places. Thassos is an island for all ages since it is an all-rounder. Quiet, low-key and delightful, there you can recharge and set your own pace, especially if you choose  self-catered apartments in Thassos . Home to the incredible natural lagoon of Giola, you will find the island is full of beautiful surprises. Now, Samothrace used to be the most alternative Greek destination for nature slash party lovers, hosting summer rave festivals amidst the immaculate natural beauty. Waterfalls, canyons, ponds and forests are aplenty in Samothrace, and that hasn’t changed, although the rave mentality has gradually subsided. Samothrace has perennially been a place charged with energy, being the home of the temple complex known as the Sanctuary of the Great Gods. Icaria is a famous island that attracts young, active crowds, mostly Greeks. A popular destination for surfers, Messakti beach is known for being one of the top body surf spots in Greece. Fantastic food, laid back and super fun at 'panigiria' (village festivals) are guaranteed here.    

However, these islands are not very well connected, and so the general concept of Greek island hopping may not fit this island group. The best way to visit these islands is to fly to Kavala from Athens and drive to Keramoti port, from where you take a short ferry ride to Thassos’ harbour, Limenas. You would imagine that you could be able to reach Samothrace from Thassos, but there is no direct connection. Occasionally, there are some ferries during the peak summer season, but you should not rely on it. You’ll have to get to Alexandroupoli by air from Athens, then cross to Samothrace by ferry. Each is accessible from Athens too; however, it may be tricky visiting them all in one go. Icaria has a direct air route from Athens also, or the alternative is a ferry from Athens, which takes up to 7 hours. 

This article has been produced in collaboration with Helen-Marie Joyce. 

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A Perfect 14-day Itinerary to the Greek Islands From a T+L Travel Expert

Pack your bags, you're off to Greece.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Petros G. Zissimos is a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List , a collection of the top travel advisors in the world, and can help plan your perfect getaway. He is the founder of Hellenic Holidays , which specializes in the best of the best Greece has to offer. Below is an example of the type of itineraries he creates.

To work with Petros, you can contact him directly at pzissimos@hellenicholidays.com

Day 1 – USA — Athens

Day 2 – athens.

Welcome to Athens. Upon arrival at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, you will be greeted by your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative, who will drive you to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of your day exploring Athens. You might stroll the old neighborhoods of Plaka, which mingle old and new Athens, or explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Kolonaki.

Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure

Day 3 – Athens

After breakfast, your day will begin with your private half-day walking tour. Along with your English-speaking licensed guide, you will visit the Acropolis and the awesome temples of the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Athena Nike. Your walk will continue to the Areopagus, or Hill of Mars. Finally, you pass the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, where you can still enjoy concerts and theatrical performances in the summer months. The tour will conclude with a visit to the Acropolis Museum exhibiting the glory of Ancient Athens.

Day 4 – Athens — Milos

After breakfast, your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the airport or ferry to Milos. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and driven to the hotel. Milos is known as the discovery place of the famous Venus de Milo statue, which is now displayed at the Louvre. Milos has dozens of beaches and picturesque villages that create its dramatic landscapes and charm.

Day 5 – Milos

Milos has beaches and landscapes for all tastes and possesses a relaxing atmosphere that allows you to explore scenic villages like Klima and Plaka while savoring the local color of the island. Pair this experience with visits to great beaches like Sarakiniko for a wonderful day. There are dozens of beaches to visit, all different colors and all different combinations of sand, stone, and shell, hence the nickname for Milos as the "Island of Colors." In the evening, visit the port of Adamantas. Adamantas has a lively waterfront scene with quaint shops and wonderful tavernas.

Day 6 – Milos

Today is your last day in Milos. A must experience while in Milos is to take a sailing trip to Kleftiko, a region on the southern side of the island with azure waters and amazing volcanic rock formations. While in Milos, you might consider visiting Plaka, another charming village that will lead you to the village of Trypiti with its famous windmills. Plaka is the place to visit a truly cinematic sunset but try to get there early as many people try to find the perfect spot for the sunset. Enjoy a wonderful dinner from one of our restaurant recommendations in town.

Day 7 – Milos — Naxos

After breakfast, your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative, will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the port of Milos for your short ferry to Naxos. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and driven to your hotel. Naxos is and always has been a crossroad, where archaeologists, historians, and scholars of all kinds can meet, drawn by the importance of the culture which has flourished on the island down the centuries. Naxos is also known for its sandy beaches and spectacular cuisine.

Day 8 – Naxos

Entice your senses by swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a range of water sports at some of Naxos' most beautiful beaches. Naxos has a beach for all activities and tastes. Visit Agios Georgios for windsurfing, Mikri Viglia for kite surfing, or Agiassos for a quiet and relaxed beach atmosphere. In the afternoon, consider strolling into Portara, on the islet in front of the harbor which you spot as soon as you arrive in Naxos, as the huge marble gate captures your eye. Enjoy a meal in Chora or at a little seaside taverna where you can enjoy a magnificent sunset and an authentic meal.

Day 9 – Naxos

Today is your last day in Naxos. Explore the beautiful villages of Apeiranthos and Halki and enjoy the local color of these villages. There you can even try the local drink, a liquor named Kitron with a greenish tint. There is the Temple of Demetra that should be visited. Enjoy a final swim after your day of village exploration and enjoy a relaxing sunset view and meal from Chora or one of our restaurant recommendations.

Day 10 – Naxos — Santorini

Goodbye Naxos, hello Santorini. After breakfast, your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will drive you to the port of Naxos where you embark on a one-and-half-hour sail aboard a high-speed ferry to Santorini. Santorini is most known for its breathtaking views of the red and brown layers of volcanic ash that makes its famous cliffside. You will be driven to your hotel overlooking the majestic caldera. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the romantic atmosphere of the island. Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the sunsets and the sea below creates the perfect setting for the next few days.

Day 11 – Santorini

After breakfast enjoying caldera views, your morning is at leisure. In the early afternoon, you will be driven to the port of Vlichada or Ammoudi where you will embark on the sailing trip that we have arranged. You will sail to the Red and White beaches, the Venetian Lighthouse, and the Sulphur Springs. During these visits, you will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel. You will then sail to a secluded bay where while you swim or relax, a lavish steak and seafood barbecue with many appetizers and salads is being prepared for you to enjoy.

Day 12 – Santorini

While in Santorini, consider hiking along the cobblestone pathway from Fira to Imerovigli and then on to Oia. You can also take a short ride and visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri, seeing the remnants of this village in its beautiful museum. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy a journey down the Santorini wine circuit through the inland villages of Karterados, Monolithos, and Emporio.

Day 13 – Santorini

Your last day in Santorini. You might consider visiting the famous village of Oia. Some enjoy the day by taking a donkey ride down from Oia to Ammoudi where they swim, eat, and then return to Oia to take in one of the world's famous sunsets. Others explore Oia's local souvenir shops or visit some of the local artists who display their work of the landscape. What better way to end your stay in Greece, by dining at one of the local restaurants we recommend with those majestic views.

Day 14 – Santorini — Athens — Home

Your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will drive you to the airport for your short flight to Athens connecting to your flight home.

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Home > Greek Islands: Local’s Guide To Island-Hopping Greece

Greek Islands: Local’s Guide To Island-Hopping Greece

Written by our local expert Gabi

Gabi is an award-winning writer who lives on the Island of Crete in Greece. She is an expert in Greek travel and writes guides for the everyday traveler.

Although most of us close our eyes and dream about the enchanting images of white Santorini, there are so many more Greek islands to choose from that you never know exactly where to start island-hopping in Greece..or where to finish!

So, please let me help you island-hop Greece like a local, using my own travel experience of living in Greece for many years. 

There is nothing more magical, romantic, and adventurous than boarding a Greek ferry and sailing the sea to explore the beautiful beaches of Greece. The Greek islands are blessed with stunning landscapes and feel like an authentic slice of paradise.

You must first know that the Greek islands are divided into different island groups. As well as that, some islands are extremely popular among Greek island-hopping tourists, while others, equally enchanting, are almost unknown and offer a great vacation spot for those looking for less crowded places… which often come with much lower price tags too!

So, let’s get started and show you the best way to island hop in Greece;

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

The Greek Islands Groups

Let’s take a look at the islands of Greece and what groups they belong to.

These are the most popular islands in Greece . When you go island-hopping in the Cyclades, you can visit gorgeous beaches and places like Santorini , Mykonos , Sifnos, Syros, Serifos, Paros, Milos, Naxos, Amorgos, Ios , Tinos, and Folegandros.

This beautiful slice of Greece includes islands such as Patmos , Samos, Kos, Tilos, Symi, Kalymnos , Leros, and Rhodes. The latter is one of the most popular destinations and often features on Greece island-hopping itineraries .

Ionian Islands

These islands are easy to visit when visiting Greece from Italy , one of the many popular Greek island hopping routes. Corfu , Lefkada , Kefalonia , Zakynthos , and Ithaka are some of the best-known Ionian Islands.

Argo-Saronic Gulf Islands

Easy to reach as they are relatively close to Athens , the most popular Saronic Islands include  Aegina, Poros, Hydra , Spetses, Salamina, and Agistri.

Crete is Greece’s biggest island. It’s a major destination on its own, a place where you could spend a week or more exploring amazing beaches and ancient sites.

However, Crete is also a much-visited destination among people who are island-hopping in Greece . It is, for example, a great base from which to visit Santorini on a day trip .

Evia is the second biggest island in the country, and it is also easy to reach from Athens .

Northeastern Aegean Sea Islands

Some of the islands in this group are Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Ikaria , and Thasos.

These beautiful green Greek islands include Alonissos, Skyros, Skiathos, and Skopelos.

As you can already see, there is no one best Greek island for island-hopping – you have to see a few. Let us show you how many islands you can see on your island-hopping around Greece adventure with the ferry routes below.

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Ferry routes to the most popular greek islands .

When planning those unforgettable Greek island-hopping adventures, deciding where to go first or how long to stay is a decision that will be subject to the Greek islands’ ferry routes, ferry schedules, and your Greek budget .

Are you ready to start planning your Greek island-hopping vacation? Let’s go! This article gives you a sweeping panorama of how to island-hop in Greece. But, first things first, are you starting on the mainland? If so read this section:

From Athens To The Main Greek Islands

Athens, the capital of Greece, offers access to all the islands, either by plane or by ferry routes to the Greek islands . Popular islands, including Rhodes, Corfu, Crete , Mykonos, and Santorini, can be reached by flying out from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport.

The most popular tours from Athens:

• 🏝️ Book this 13-day Greek islands tour in Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes and admire the beauty of each island!
• 🏞️ Grab the opportunity to visit the most cosmopolitan destination in Greece – Mykonos Island – on this day trip from Athens
• 🚢 Visit the most famous Greek islands – Santorini and Mykonos on a 2-day trip from Athens
• 🛥️ Spend four days traveling around some of Greece’s island hotspots by joining this trip with ferries, flights, and accommodations included
• 🚢  Book your ferries with Ferryhopper in advance

Athens Ferry Ports

It’s also a popular choice to travel by sea. You can reach most Greek islands from the main Port of Piraeus, about 30 minutes from the center of Athens. However, it would help if you also kept in mind that there are other ports from which you can depart, too. Lavrio and Rafina are two smaller island ports in Athens with regular ferry services to different Greek islands.

• From Lavrio: you can reach the islands of Chios, Lemnos, Andros, Folegandros, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos , Paros, Sikinos, Syros, and Tinos.
• From Rafina: instead, it’s possible to visit the islands of Crete, Andros, Folegandros, Ios, Amorgos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, and Santorini.

You can choose between fast ferries to the Greek islands that carry boat cargo on this route. These are ideal if you want to take a rented  car or motorbike with you. 

For the best flight deals, book your ticket here .

Corfu to santorini, crete, and mykonos.

There are no direct flights from Corfu to Santorini, Mykonos, or Crete. Therefore, if flying is a must, the best way to get there is to fly to Athens and then take another flight to the island of your choice.

Other alternatives include taking the ferry from Corfu to the mainland and, from there, boarding a bus to Athens. Once in the capital, you can choose either a ferry or a plane to reach Crete, Santorini , or Mykonos.

Another alternative is to reach Larissa from Corfu and take a train trip to Athens.

Crete To Santorini

There are no direct flights from Crete to Santorini , but a ferry route connects both islands during the high season with at least 2-3 daily ferry crossings.

The ferry times between these Greek islands range between 2 and 4 hours, depending on whether you take a fast or regular ferry. The cost of the ferry trip between Heraklion and Santorini is about 50 euros, and it can be a great day trip if you’re staying in Crete. This is one of the most popular ferry travel routes on the Greek islands.

Rhodes To Crete

The trip from Rhodes to Crete can be quite long on a ferry. That’s why most travelers choose to fly from Heraklion, Crete’s capital. The flying time is about 50 minutes, and prices tend to be considerably high, so booking in advance is a good idea.

The ferry route connecting Rhodes to Crete is covered by the sailing company Aegeon Pelagos. There are four weekly connections and the traveling times range between 11 and 15 hours.

It’s possible to board the ferry with a car, a motorbike, or a camper van. Since it’s such a long trip, the vessel offers facilities, including restaurants, bars, and shops , to make the journey more pleasant.

I highly recommend this full-day land rover tour.  

Mykonos to santorini.

The only way to travel between Mykonos and Santorini is by boarding a ferry since no direct flights connect the Aegean Islands .

You can save some money traveling with regular service (about 4 hours), pay more, and cut off your traveling time by at least two good hours.

Since this is probably the most famous sea route during summer, it’s a better idea to book your ferry tickets well in advance – we suggest Ferryhopper for that here. The trip from M ykonos to Santorini is among the best Greek island hopping experiences you can have.

Book your Santorini Day Trip From Mykonos here

Naxos, Paros, Ios To Santorini

The three islands are connected by ferry routes all year round, with a considerable increase in services during the high season .

The best way to travel among these islands is by boarding a fast ferry. The ferry travel times between these Greek islands vary from 2 hours to 45 minutes (Paros-Naxos).

The three islands can also make an excellent escape from the bustle of Santorini and are the perfect destination for a one-day trip or a weekend away.

Here is how to island hop between Mykonos and Ios.

Rhodes to santorini, mykonos, and other cyclades.

The best way to travel between the Greek Cycladic Islands and Rhodes is by boarding a ferry to Athens and, from there, boarding another ferry to any of the Cyclades Islands (or Rhodes).

It’s not common to find ferries departing from Rhodes with a stop on the Cyclades , but if you manage to book a vessel making a stop either in Naxos or Paros, it would unquestionably be a winning choice. Check with your ferry operator to find the best Greek island-hopping route for your trip.

Here is how to island hop between Mykonos and Paros.

Italy to greece.

As we mentioned  in this post about traveling from Italy to Greece , there are comfortable ways to connect both countries by plane or ferry. Ferries depart from Italy’s main ports , and it’s possible to board most vessels with a rental car or a motorbike.

Some of the ports are Bari, Ancona, and Venice, and they usually connect Italy to the Greek ports in the Ionian Sea , including Corfu, Igoumenitsa, and Patras.

Of course, routes (and prices) increase during the high season, which in Europe goes from June to September.

We recommend you book your ferries with Ferryhopper in advance here.

Which greek islands have airports.

Let’s go island-by-island.

What Greek Islands Have Domestic Airports

• Chios Island
• Ikaria Island
• Kalymnos Island
• Kythira Island
• Milos Island
• Naxos Island
• Paros Island
• Skyros Island
• Syros Island

What Greek Islands Have International Airports

• Astypalea Island
• Corfu Island
• Crete Island
• Kefalonia Island
• Lemnos Island
• Lesvos Island
• Rhodes Island
• Samos Island
• Santorini Island
• Skiathos Island

Best Greek Islands For Island-hopping

Deciding which Greek islands to include in your Greek island-hopping itinerary can be difficult. It depends on what activities you love doing and how you prefer to spend your vacation time.

Do you love sunbathing and swimming on sandy beaches ? Do you dream of soaking in the whitewashed landscapes of Greece? Are you eager to climb mountains and fill your trip with incredible adventures? Do you want epic Greek nightlife ?

There’s an island for every taste and every traveler… People usually choose to visit the most popular places either because they heard about them or because some other travelers suggested so.

Here are our ideas for the lesser-known Greek Islands.

People often flock to places such as Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Hydra , and Crete, for the best beaches, totally unaware there are hundreds of other islands worth visiting in Greece.

If you’re visiting Greece for the first time and eager to discover some of the best islands, the best thing to do is travel around on a ferry. You can get to even some of the less-visited islands with ease.As you can see above, tons of ferries connect the Greece islands, making it super easy to have an unforgettable Greece island-hopping experience.

This is not only the most good option when it comes to ticket prices, but it is also the favorite way to travel for locals. You will immerse yourself in the right atmosphere that will set the pace for a relaxing trip.

One of the best Greek island-hopping tips we can give you is: don’t run against the clock. The most enjoyable way to visit Greece and the islands is to take one place at a time and enjoy it to the fullest. When it comes to island-hopping the Greek Islands, I think that less is definitely more.

What is the best time to go Greek island-hopping?

The best months to enjoy a Greek isle adventure has to be when it’s warm, but the hordes of vacationers have left – making that May, June, and September. Of course, the summer months of June, July, and August are the most popular as that is when people have summer break – but that is also when the prices are higher and crowds bigger

Is it easy to island hop in Greece?

YES! With hundreds of islands and decades of tourism experience, Greece has an excellent, well run and efficient ferry network, making hopping from island to island easy and cheap 

How to island hop Greece?

We have provided you with many tips; plan in advance and don’t rush from place to place for the best experience

Can I take a self-guided Greek island-hopping trip?

Is it expensive to island hop in greece.

Yes, and no. Budget travelers can find low-cost accommodations, or you can also stay in 5-star resorts. Just as you can enjoy low-cost street food or eat in the finest restaurants. Greece offers something for all budgets

How long do you need when island-hopping in Greece?

You can rush, but then you would not get to fully immerse yourself in the authentic way of Greek life. At a minimum, we recommend that you spend three nights on each island. So if you have just 10 days in Greece, do not island-hop more than three islands, and spend at least one day in Athens or Thessonaliki 

What is the cheapest way to island-hop in Greece?

The cheapest – and easiest way to get around the Greek Islands is by jumping on the Greek ferry system. With several ferry companies offering ferries to and from all of the islands all year, you do not need to spend much

Which Greek island should I visit first?

We hope that island-hopping Greece has been made easier with this guide on planning a Greek island-hopping holiday adventure.

• Best Things To Do In Greece With Kids
• How To Tip In Greece
• Car Rental And Driving Tips For Greece
• Where To Stay In Crete
• What To Do In Greece 
• What To Expect & Do In September In Greece

Comments (10)

Very nice blog on Island Hop Greece, Here Is How To Travel Between Greek Islands

Hi SJ, I was thrilled to find your blog. Croatia was my last vacation (before Covid) and I finally booked a “post Covid” vacation for April 2023, We will be taking a Windstar cruise from Barcelona, thru a few ports in Italy and ending in Athens. My plan is to add a few days in Greece after the 8 day cruise. We will sightsee in Athens for 2 days and then I would like to see one (or two) of the Greek Islands. Can you recommend which island we should go for the best overview of Greece. We are 60+ years old so I don’t car about the nightlife of dancing and partying. I want culture and food! Thanks Gail G

Hi Gail, the trip sounds amazing! I would look at these islands for what you describe: Kefalonia: https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/things-to-do-in-kefalonia-greece-guide/ Lefkada: https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/things-to-do-in-lefkada-island-greece/ Milos: https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/things-to-do-in-milos-island-greece/ Aegina : https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/things-to-do-in-aegina-greece-guide/

Enjoy your vacation!

I am planning a trip to Greece to Island Hop in July. Please advise on the best way to travel between (Athens, Mykonos, Naxos and Crete). I was thinking; Atlanta to Athens (flight) with first island Mykonos (High Speed Ferry or flight) then Naxos (High Speed Ferry) and then Crete (flight) and back to Athens (flight) then fly back to the USA. While in Crete we will likely do a day trip to Santorini.

I have visited Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini in 2017. How many days should I plan for in Naxos and Crete? Please recommend hotels in Mykonos, Naxos and Crete.

Hello.What island to choosef rom September 15 to30 so that it is possible to swit. Thank you Edvardas.

Possible to “Swit” what does that mean?

Hi, Great reading your site. We have 21 days to explore the Cyclades Islands starting in Santorini and ending in Athens, we want to do this leisurely using Ferries. We like the thought that less is more but we have a nice length of time. What route would you suggest ?

Best wishes, Jim

For a leisurely 21-day exploration of the Cyclades Islands starting from Santorini and ending in Athens, you can enjoy a wonderful island-hopping experience. Here’s a suggested route that balances relaxation with exploration:

Day 1-4: Santorini Day 1-2: Arrive in Santorini. Spend your first two days exploring Fira and Oia, enjoying the sunset views, and perhaps a wine tour. Day 3: Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site and relax on the Red Beach. Day 4: Take a boat tour of the caldera, including the hot springs and Thirassia. Day 5-7: Ios Day 5: Take a ferry to Ios. Enjoy the beaches like Mylopotas and relax. Day 6: Explore Ios Town (Chora), visit the windmills, and enjoy the local cuisine. Day 7: Spend a day on a secluded beach or partake in water sports. Day 8-10: Paros Day 8: Ferry to Paros. Explore Parikia and visit the Panagia Ekatontapiliani church. Day 9: Day trip to the picturesque village of Naoussa. Enjoy the beaches. Day 10: Explore the interior of the island or take a short boat trip to Antiparos. Day 11-13: Naxos Day 11: Ferry to Naxos. Visit the Portara and explore Naxos Town. Day 12: Explore the inland villages like Apiranthos and Filoti. Visit the Temple of Demeter. Day 13: Relax on beaches like Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna. Day 14-16: Amorgos Day 14: Ferry to Amorgos. Visit the Monastery of Hozoviotissa and the Chora. Day 15: Enjoy the serene beaches and explore the island’s hiking trails. Day 16: Relax and soak in the traditional island life. Day 17-19: Syros Day 17: Ferry to Syros. Explore Ermoupoli and its neoclassical architecture. Day 18: Visit the Ano Syros, and enjoy the panoramic views. Day 19: Relax on the beaches or visit the local museums. Day 20-21: Athens Day 20: Ferry to Athens. Explore the historic sites like the Acropolis and Plaka. Day 21: Visit the National Archaeological Museum and spend your last evening in a nice Athenian restaurant. This itinerary gives you a mix of popular and lesser-known islands, each with its unique charm, allowing for a well-rounded experience of the Cyclades. Remember to check the ferry schedules in advance as they can vary, especially outside of the peak summer months. Enjoy your trip!

Hi, I love reading all of your information but hoping for suggestions on the next part of our holiday. My husband & I will have 12 days to get from Istanbul to Athens in April-May. Hoping to go via some Greek islands. I am having trouble with ferry schedules at the moment. Could you suggest a route that would work? We are not fussed which islands we go to. We do not have a car. Many thanks in advance

Here is a list of Greek Islands you can get to from Türkiye https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/how-to-visit-the-greek-islands-close-to-turkey/ the obvious place to start from Istanbul woul dbe to go to Izmir and go Cesme to Chios. Then the world is your oyster. Suggestions here: https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/island-hop-greece-travel-between-greek-islands/ Use FerryHppper to buy your tickets. https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/?aff_uid=chsgdnk

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Island Hopping Tours & Trips from Athens

See the best Island Hopping trips from Athens, Greece. We have 77 adventures that range from 3 days up to 16 days in length. The most popular time for tours leaving Athens is May.

77 Island Hopping tour packages from Athens with 532 reviews

• Island Hopping

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos Tour - 7 Days - Premium

Chosing this tour was an excelent option, we experienced the best of the Greek islands in luxury and the best thing is that Travel Zone customized the itinerary according to our prererences.

• Sightseeing

3 Day Island Tour: Santorini, Mykonos to Explore the Best of Cyclades

All of the tour operators weee extremely nice. However, the sunset cruise was not what we expected. It was much longer than it needed to be, and took up time we could have spent exploring other areas of Santorini. Mykonos was amazing and very laid back and we loved having time on our own to do what we wanted to do.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Athens, Paros & Santorini - 7 Days - Standard

This package allows you to experience the bustling city life in Athens, the serene beaches the traditional atmosphere of Paros, and the enchanting beauty of Santorini. Also Travel Zone have booked a hotel in a great location. The Astor in Athens is an old historical building close to the most important thing to do in Athens. Pyrgaki Hotel had a warm and cozy atmosphere that made us feel at home. Finally the Aegean Plaza in Santorini offered one ofyhd friendly and attentive service we have experienced. A big thanks goes to our operator Dilimar for making our trip a great.

9 Day Private Tour in Santorini & Mykonos from Athens

Everything went very smoothly and communication with Private Tours of Greece was great.

Athens - Mykonos - Santorini - Crete

The entire trip went pretty smoothly and all transportation provided via ferry or driver was spot on.

Cycladic Explorer: Athens - Mykonos - Santorini

Amazing experience! The island hopping package we booked was absolutely perfect! We chose to visit Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. we are really happy with the customer service, especially with ALEX, who responded and provided timely responses when any questions were raised. The transfers were on time waiting for us and the hotels were great, with only one exception. Titania hotel did not accommodate us according to our arrival at 8am after a long overnight flight, having young children, which really impacted us. The islands were absolutely amazing. Overall, everything was great. I wouldn’t change anything! Thank you very much Eskapas for this amazing experience!

• Christmas & New Year

Discovery of Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 8 Days

My husband and I booked through tour radar for our Greece trip. My husband was a bit hesitant, as he travels all over the world for work, but I said let’s try it. We could not have been more pleased. Everything was done professionally and with knowledge. Our drivers we wonderful. We will definitely use your radar again for our next trip, in fact, we are talking of where we want to go to next! Thank you for a great experience! Best Regards, Sam and Ann Stanchak.

Greece Highlights: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

FANTASTIC!!! Very organized!

Athens, Mykonos, Delos, Santorini & Heraklion(Crete), 11-Day tour

Overall I had a very good experience with Mazi Travel from beginning to end. Mazi’s reprensentative was very prompt to respond. All hotels were well located and clean. Two things that matters to me when I travel. I have also been provided a chauffeur for every transit which was very practical. Except for one time, the chauffeur did not show up and I had to take a cab, all other times they were punctual. The acropolis and Parthenon visit included was good as well as the Delos tour. I would have loved to stay one more night in Santorini instead of Mykonos since there was so much to see in Santorini. An included tour of Santorini would have been appreciated. I had to buy one myself and did’t regret it. I recommend none the less this Trip with Mazi Travel. I travelled alone and had lots of time on my own to do whatever I wanted. I think that kind of tour is well balanced were some things are taken care of(ship transfer, hotel, some inclusions) so you don’t have to worry. TourRadar is also easy to use with lots of options and tour companies I will use this site for my next trip.

Athens, Delphi & Greek Islands By Cruise - 5 Days

Yes tour was excellent only minor problems regarding crowding not able to get into Delphi museum . Whilst tour guides were proficient in detail of explanation there was too much detail and too much time spent explaing superfluous information ... this could have been better used viewing more items ... A little more time in Hydra as thus was too quick I recall only 30 minutes ...an hour would have been better and not delayed arrival back to Athens .only 30 minutes more. Overall excellent organisation pick ups drop off's and transfers were appreciated. Thankyou so muck for arranging all professionally. Edward Cioffi.

Athens and Cyclades: Paros, Santorini and Mykonos, 8-Day tour

Santorini & Mykonos

Cultural Athens & Island Hopping Mykonos - Santorini (Self-guided)

I am glad that I took this package. It helped us have a stress free trip. Transfer from day 1 was seamless. I want to mention Kristos, the driver that picked us up from the airport who gave us a lot of useful information that kicked our trip to a good start. He served as a tour guide from the airport to the hotel. The hotels we stayed in were located near the must see places, especially our hotel in Athens. The person at the reception in all the hotels we stayed in was very helpful. George of Dot Travel was very prompt in answering my queries before our trip. It was a good package to take. We were satisfied.

• $65 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Athens - Naxos - Santorini - Crete ( Aegean Gems )

Greek Island Hopping (Plus, 11 Days)

Phenomenal time with a great group. It was a real party! And with a large group, you are sure to find your people.

What people love about Island Hopping Tours from Athens

El mejor viaje y el mejor tour con Elias ? muchísimas gracias!!!!

The overall experience was nice with having private drivers, however a few things could have been explained a bit better. When arriving at the port, a gate assignment would have helped for the ferry. Maybe a link to the Sea Jet website? The motel in Mykonos was vary dated, with broken furniture, and light fixtures in the room. It was also a very long way from anything if you were walking. It was quite remote, and probably one I would have never considered as the port and restaurants/ shops were all 2.5 miles away.

While this tour want not I expected (my mistake, not theirs), everything was really well organized and communicated. While the tour guides were great, Effie was especially amazing (I can only imagine my look of horror upon realizing my mistake that this was not a group tour I had envisioned), and checked in with me, even after I left Athens, answered questions and shared recommendations. I couldn't have been more grateful! The hotels were lovely and when one the boat tours got cancelled because of the weather, they seamlessly for me into a bus tour instead. Highly recommend and suggest taking the expedited ferries when possible.

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Island hopping from athens.

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Day Trips From Athens: Discover the Most Magical Destinations Near the Capital

• May 8, 2024
• Destination

Are you planning your trip to the Greek capital and searching for the best nearby destinations for day trips from Athens? You’ll be happy to know that numerous beautiful towns and islands close to Athens will make you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle, revealing the essence of Greece. So, we have compiled a list of the best day trips from Athens that will enchant every type of traveler. Let’s discover them!

This island is alluring and boasts a unique retro charm, making it one of the best islands for day trips from Athens. Despite being close to the Greek capital (just over an hour away), Aegina offers many things to see and do. Wander the picturesque main town, dive deeper into the island’s history in the Archaeological Museum, and learn everything about its traditions in the Folklore Museum.

If you love archaeology, you should also visit the imposing ancient temple of Aphaia, which will captivate you with its unique beauty. Apart from being beautiful, this temple is also intriguing, as it forms an imaginary equilateral triangle with the Temple of Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio. For the ultimate sightseeing experience, we recommend staying in a hotel in Athens and going on trips to Aegina and Sounio. This way, you will discover three of Greece’s most important ancient temples while on vacation!

Trikala Korinthias

If you prefer mountain destinations, then Trikala Korinthias is your best bet! A patchwork of untouched landscapes, unparalleled views, and a scenic atmosphere, this village is great for thrill-seeking getaways or romantic day trips from Athens. It consists of three parts: Ano (Upper) Trikala, Kato (Lower) Trikala, and Mesea (Middle) Trikala, each of which has a unique beauty and offers many opportunities for exploration!

One of the best things about Trikala Korinthias is that it has managed to keep its authentic character and unspoiled charm despite touristic development. This means you can still immerse yourself in the authenticity of this traditional village. A great way to do so is to stay in one of its stone-made inns that draw you into another era. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the Saint Vlasios Monastery, Dasios Lake, Mikri and Megali Ziria, and Flambouritsa Valley!

Among the most beautiful towns on the Greek mainland, Livadia is one of those places that have managed to stay untouched by mass tourism and keep their authentic charm. Additionally, thanks to its proximity to the Greek capital (less than two hours away), Livadia is one of the top destinations for day trips from Athens!

Standing out for its traditional character, legendary taverns, and natural beauty, Livadia enchants visitors willing to explore it! One of the best spots in the town is arguably Kria Springs, formed by the Erkyna River. If you want to truly immerse yourself in Livadia’s natural beauty, we recommend first exploring the gorge located behind the springs and then relaxing at the café situated right above them to take in the scenery. Other things you should do while in Livadia include trying its souvlaki, visiting the Byzantine Castle of Livadia, and taking a stroll through the market!

Galaxidi, one of the country’s lesser-known coastal villages, is a top destination for day trips from Athens, as it lies just two and a half hours from the Greek capital. Standing out for its retro charm, picturesque port, and traditional taverns, this postcard-perfect village will charm you with its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful architecture. One of the best things to do is meander through the streets of Galaxidi; you will come across some stone-made villas that will fascinate you -especially if you love retro architecture.

Besides admiring the village’s architecture, you should also visit Agios Nikolaos church, Agia Paraskevi church, Mamas Square, and Ksirolakas, take a stroll at the Hill of the School of Tourism Professions, and explore the fascinating exhibits of the Nautical Museum. After exploring the village and taking in the scenery, sit at one of the traditional seaside taverns to savor dishes that highlight local ingredients. It’s the best way to end your day trip!

Although tiny, Poros is an island brimming with beautiful places to visit and things to do! Thanks to its proximity to the Greek capital, this Saronic island is one of the best islands for day trips from Athens. But this is not the only reason you should visit Poros; its cute little taverns, beautiful beaches, neoclassical buildings, and picturesque port, where yachts from all over the world moor, are extra reasons why this island is so appealing to travelers!

From the moment you disembark from the ferry, you will realize that the time in Poros slows down, allowing you to adjust to the rhythms of the island. To immerse yourself in the magic of Poros, you should visit its beaches, stroll along the narrow streets of its main town, savor the panoramic sea view from the clock of Poros, which stands on a hill above the town, and try the local delicacies at seaside taverns. The beauty of this little Greek island will blow you away!

Whether you prefer islands or mainland towns, there are so many top destinations for day trips from Athens to choose from. But why limit yourself to just one destination when you can organize several getaways during your stay in the Greek capital?

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Greece 10 Days Itinerary: Islands & Athens

This Greece 10 days itinerary covers everything you need to know on your trip to popular Greek islands such as Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos, and Athens.

Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos islands belong to the most popular group of Greek islands, the Cyclades . They are frequently interconnected during summer and there are 3-4 daily ferries from Athens and Rafina (a smaller port in Athens). You can also fly to Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos from Athens or some of the European cities.

This is a suggestion for a Greece 10-day itinerary with 3 nights in Santorini, 2 nights in Naxos, 2 nights in Mykonos, and 2 nights in Athens. Sometimes, you have to play it by ear, you may stay more on one island and less on another and you figure this out while you are on the islands. It all comes down to how a place makes you feel or how exhausting/exciting you find it to check in and out as frequently and take the ferries/airplanes.

Logistics of the Greece 10 Days Itinerary

This 10-day itinerary in Greece can work both ways: You can land in Santorini and end up in Athens or start at Athens, take the ferry, or fly to Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini. From Santorini, you can fly either to Athens and from there fly back home or fly straight home from Santorini.

If you travel during summer, there will be at least 3 to 4 ferry connections between the islands.

In winter, there might be 1 or 2 ferry connections but not to all islands and not even every day. I checked the 11th of January (a random date) for ferries from Santorini to Naxos and there were 2 ferry connections, which was good. So if you are traveling off-season the ferries must be carefully selected.

Tip: I would keep Athens for last, to minimize the risks of losing the flight and stay at a hotel near the Athens Airport.

Some of the links below are affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you click and buy. The commission comes at no additional cost to you.

Greece 10 Days Itinerary – Greek Islands & Athens

Day 1: santorini.

I suggest you arrange in advance with your hotel to pick you up from the Santorini airport or port. Most of the hotels in Santorini have their vehicles to transport their guests. If they haven’t got one, they collaborate with local taxis. In any case, they should be able to pick you up.

Depending on the time you arrive and after you have settled in the hotel you may have time to do sightseeing around the town you are staying in Santorini. As a top site, go to Oia, find a nice spot, and enjoy your first sunset in Santorini.

The shops stay open until late, so go around and explore, and enjoy your evening. If it is July or August you may find it difficult to get a table at any caldera view restaurant. For the other evenings in Santorini, I suggest you book your table in advance.

Budget Tip: The further from the caldera you book, the cheaper everything is.

Best Oia Sunset View Restaurants

Kastro Oia Restaurant and Lycabettus Restaurant will leave you breathless with their awesome views and their excellent cuisine. But you do need to book your table in advance. Check out here my post on the 6 best diners in Santorini for your anniversary.

Where to Stay in Oia Santorini

Andronis Boutique Hotel : The hotel has spectacular views over the Caldera, spa, swimming pool, organic restaurant, and amicable staff. They also provide free pick-up from the airport. The famous Lycabettus restaurant belongs to the Andronis Hotel chain in Santorini.

Canaves Oia Suites and Spa: If this trip to Greece is your honeymoon, consider staying at the best Suites in Santorini for newlyweds.

For budget hotels in Santorini, read my recommendations on the Best Santorini Budget Hotels .

Day 2: Santorini – How to get around the Island

For your second day of your Greece 10 days itinerary, you can rent a car but keep in mind that the roads are narrow, there is going to be some traffic, and parking can be challenging at times. The local public buses (Central station is at Fira) go around the island but not to the remote areas, they can be packed with people, and be slow in the summer.

Cable Car in Fira: This is your alternative to donkeys (please don’t use the donkeys!) and steps if you want to visit Mesa Gialos, the old port of Fira, where a lot of caldera cruises start.  

For the second day, you can go to Fira, Santorini’s capital, and Firostefani village, which are very close to each other, stroll the picturesque alleys, take photos of the blue-domed churches, and enjoy your day in Santorini.

Swim on the eastern side of Santorini, the black beaches of Perissa and Kamari.

Explore the stunning ancient Thera between Perissa and Kamari’s black beaches. Go to the impressive Vlichada, my favorite beach in Santorini.

In the evening dine at the beautiful Esperisma Bar-Restaurant in Fira.

For the full list of the things to do in Santorini, check out the 12 Best Things to Do in Santorini !

Day 3: Santorini

Explore the southwest part of Santorini. Go to the Akrotiri Bronze Age Site and visit the nearby impressive Red Beach.

A note of caution about Red Beach: The Municipality of Thira (Official name of Santorini) has put up warning signs against visiting it as the beach is prone to landslides.

I recommend you visit Red Beach on Catamaran Cruise , with stops at the Volcano Hot Springs, Vlichada, Mesa Pigadia, and Red Beach.

Day 4 of Greece Itinerary: Santorini and Naxos

The ferry to Naxos leaves at around 3:45 pm so you have plenty of time to experience a bit more of Santorini.

The port in Santorini is southwest of Megalohori, the capital village of wine production in Santorini. This is the perfect place to experience the authentic Santorini, which is less touristically developed and has amazing wine tasting . And buy a few bottles for Naxos nights as well!

Then off to your ferry to your next adventure, Naxos. Ferries take from 1 to 3 hours to reach Naxos, depending on the type of boat you have booked.

Where to Stay in Naxos

Naxos Greece is very different from Santorini. It is the biggest and greenest island in the Cyclades, less touristically advanced, and much closer to the authentic idea of Greece.

I suggest you stay in Chora (or Hora) Naxos, the capital town and port, a beautiful place with a maze of whitewashed houses and centuries-old Greek Churches.

One of the best and most reasonably priced hotels is Hora Seaside Suites , built very close to the Naxos landmark: the Ancient Portara or Temple of Apollo, and the best place in Naxos to see the stunning sunset.

The beautiful Suites are next to the sea, just a 5min walk from Chora shopping center and the port, and neatly tucked away from the busy main road. Both a gorgeous and convenient hotels to stay in Naxos.

After you have settled in your hotel, stroll the iconic alleys of Naxos and start feeling the vibe of the island. I suggest you try some traditional Greek taverns such as Apostolis Restaurant for your dinner.

Apostolis restaurant has a fantastic Cycladic yard and is a few streets off the main seaside road, a 5-minute walk from your hotel. Try his mixed salads with the local but Greekwide famous Graviera yummy cheese and pick a local dish of the day.

Greece 10 days Itinerary

Day 5: naxos – how to get around the island.

Naxos island is famous in Greece for its delicious cheese and potatoes, the endless golden sand azure-colored beaches, the picturesque villages scattered around the island, and fantastic hiking opportunities in its mountains.

There are public buses on Naxos but I got around the island with a rental car . The private car offered the freedom to explore the island in-depth and save time, especially when you only have 2 days to explore a large island.

The best sandy beaches in Naxos are the ones on the west side of the island: Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Maragas, and Plaka are all beaches one after another in a big bay.

Alternatively, explore mainland Naxos with its beautiful and traditional villages.

Day 6: Naxos and Mykonos

The ferries to Mykonos leave around 15.30 every afternoon and the trip lasts between 40 to 80 minutes, again depending on how fast is the boat you have booked.

You will have plenty of time to have a fast swim around Portara or explore a bit further Chora Naxos. You can visit th e Venetian Castle on top of Chora and the medieval Catholic Metropolis Church with graves of the most essential catholic families that lived on the island.

Another landmark is the Archaeological Museum with exhibits from the Cycladic and Mycenean times.

Where to Stay in Mykonos

If you take the fast ferry then around 4.30 or 5 pm at the latest you should be at your Mykonos hotel. This time I would advise against staying very close to Chora Mykonos because in the summer it can get very noisy, the hotel prices are high and the beaches are either not so great or just too busy.

As with Santorini, you can again organize with your hotel to pick you up from Mykonos main port. The Kensho Ornos hotel is 6.5 km from Mykonos Chora and port, situated on the beautiful beach of Ornos village. The hotel is simply stunning and offers 5-star service .

Ornos Beach is a popular beach in Mykonos, dotted with bars and taverns and many things to do. As soon as you have settled into your room you can go straight for a swim on Ornos beach or have a cocktail and seafood in one of the best restaurants in Ornos: The Buddha-Bar Beach .

Alternatively, go to Chora and wander one of the most beautiful Cycladic villages but be prepared: if you are visiting Mykonos in July and August, it is going to be very crowded and noisy. Walk around the centuries-old windmills, go to Paraportiani Church , and take a photo with the notorious Mykonos Pelikan (there are currently 3 on Mykonos).

Find Scarpa bar in Little Venice , get a table, and enjoy your first breathtaking sunset in Mykonos.

For a detailed list of things to do read my post on How Best to Spend 3 Days on Mykonos Island .

Day 7: Mykonos (Greece 10 days itinerary)

On your full day in Mykonos, you can explore the super cosmopolitan and party beaches of Super Paradise, Paraga, Kalo Livadi, Elia, and Agios Stefanos .

If you love archaeological sites then a trip to Delos Island, a UNESCO-listed site is a must. Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites and one of the five Sacred Ancient Cities in Greece along with Athens , Eleusis, Olympia, and Delphi . Boats are leaving from Ornos to Delos every day.

A very nice bar in Mykonos Chora is Jackie O’ Club , by the seaside where you can enjoy another beautiful sunset.

Day 8: Mykonos and Athens

Your ferry from Mykonos to Athens leaves around 17.00 (always check with FerryScanner or FerryHopper ) and the trip will last 3.5 hours to Athens port Piraeus. From the port, the Athens center is about 20-25 minutes away and you can take a taxi from the port or book a private transfer to your hotel.

You can also fly to Athens from Mykonos . The flight will be about 45 minutes but you have to add the extra hour that you will have to wait at the airport and 45 min to an hour to get to Athens city from the airport.

Where to Stay in Athens

I suggest you stay near the Acropolis in Athens so that you are central to all the sites and just walk around the city. The most luxurious hotel to stay in Athens is Grande Bretagne situated right across from the Greek Parliament on Syntagma Square. Grande Bretagne is a 15-minute walk away from the Acropolis entrance.

Another option is Ava Hotel and Suites , a small luxury hotel, on a tiny Plaka (Old Athens where Acropolis is) street with its balconies overlooking Adrian’s Arch and its terrace towards the Acropolis Hill.

My related post on Acropolis View Hotels and Apartments will offer many choices to choose from. Alternatively, check out my best Athens Budget Hotels and Apartments here.

Day 9: Athens

The good news with most of Athens’ Best Landmarks and Monuments is that they are more or less in the same area, in the Athens Historical Triangle, so you can walk almost everywhere. If you take the metro be careful of your belongings, there is a petty theft issue.

Essential Things to Have for Athens Metro: An anti-theft design Backpack

Purchase your Acropolis ticket – the lines can be crazy – from Official Acropolis Tickets here . The only catch here is that if you change your mind you can’t change dates or cancel them. The usual ticket for Acropolis in the high season is €20 pp.

There is the €30 option that allows you entrance to:

• Acropolis Hill and Slopes
• Ancient Agora of Athens and its Museum
• Roman Agora
• Kerameikos, Athens’ Ancient Cemetery
• Hadrian’s Library
• The Lyceum o f Aristotle and
• Olympieio (Temple of Olympian Zeus)

If you prefer the freedom of changing dates or free cancellation then you better book your ticket through GetYourGuide .

Other significant sites in Athens are:

• Panathenaic Stadium
• Zappeion Park and Mansion
• Athens Trilogy
• Acropolis Museum, National Archaeological Museum, Benaki Museum, Byzantine Museum
• Lycabettus Hill

Related Posts for Athens:

• 16 Things to Know before you visit the Acropolis of Athens
• Best Athens Beach Hotels
• Best Seaside Fish Restaurants in Athens

Possible Issues with the Itinerary

• This Greece 10 days itinerary is a packed travel plan, great if you have limited time and want to see as much as possible. However, you need to take into consideration the following:
• There is a mandatory check out at 11 am so you may have to wander around with suitcases after breakfast and kill time in 90 degrees heat waiting for the next ferry
• The ferries can be delayed!
• The check-in at the hotels can be at 14.00, meaning if you have arrived early at a destination you will have again to kill time until 14.00
• This itinerary is great if you just want to scratch the surface of each island
• Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos have significant archaeological sites that you may be interested in but the time will be limited to visit them
• Ideally, you spend your Greek 10-day itinerary on two islands or extend your itinerary to 15 days

Suggested Athens Guided Tours

Day 10: athens, cape sounion, and flying back home.

Depending on the time your flight is, and if you have 4 free hours then I highly recommend you visit Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon through the Athens Riviera. Cape Sounion from the Athens airport is 45 km away and easily connected with excellent roads.

The Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion, built between 444–440 BCE is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece . It was strategically built so that Athenians had control over the sea and most importantly over the silver mines next door to Lavrion town.

Check out my dedicated post on the Best Day Trips from Athens!

When is Best to Go to Greece

Greece has 4 distinct seasons with considerable temperature differences if you are in Thessaloniki in the north or Crete in the south. The islands never close, they have permanent residents but they are at their liveliest between May , June, and September .

The peak season in Greece is from June to September, and the islands can get very busy and crowded, especially in August. The sea water is at its warmest (25-28 C) in August and September. I love exploring the islands in the off-season, and that means that there will be hotels, cafes, and taverns working, but it will be quiet with just the permanent residents.

If you’re looking to escape the colder weather in your country, celebrate Christmas, enjoy hiking, and explore archaeological sites with fewer crowds and at half the price, I recommend visiting Greece between December, January, and February. Discover what to do in one of Greece’s warmest winter destinations, Crete Island, by checking out the details here .

You may also enjoy:

• Greece in March
• Greece in April
• Greece in May
• Greece in September
• Greece in October
• Greece in November

What to Wear on Greek Islands

This depends on the season you are visiting but anytime between May and October, essential things to have in Greece are:

• comfortable walking shoes as Greece is mountainous and archaeological sites with their marble floors can be slippery
• organic sunscreen to apply as often as possible
• UPF sun hat for all day out
• white linen shirt to cover up if you get very easily sunburned. I wear a linen shirt when I hike in Greece during the summer
• a CUPSHE Bikini for impressive beach appearances
• cotton beach towe l
• and a beautiful dress for dining out on the Greek islands

What Difficulties you may Encounter in Greek Islands?

There are a few things that a first-time visitor should keep in mind while visiting the Cyclades Islands:

• The roads are not always in good condition or they may be too narrow for what you are used to. You need to be careful especially if you are driving at night, as the islands tend to have their main town built on top of their mountains and there are limited to no road lights.
• If a beach is not organized, it will probably have no trees or other shade available, water, or food supply. You should always carry your supplies if you are visiting a remote beach
• When it gets windy (June – August meltemia), it just won’t stop. It can also get a bit chilly in the evening. Get a light jacket with you just in case
• If you go hiking in summer on an island with no trees, you can get very easily heat stroke and get disorientated. If you go hiking, go with a group so that they can help you if you feel unwell.
• For more info on travel dangers and precautions in Greece, read my post on hiking safely in Greece

Plan My Trip to Greece

Do you need a custom travel itinerary or a transfer within Greece ? Are you traveling solo, with your family or friends and need a tailor-made multi-day tour or a transfer?

If yes, please visit my dedicated Plan My Trip Page for a free itinerary!

Athens Airport to Piraeus Port

• Bus: If you are arriving at Athens International Airport you can travel straight to the port by taking the X96 express bus (€5.5, children <6 yo, free entrance) , which departs every 40 minutes and the average trip lasts 1 hour – runs 24/7.
• Metro : (€9) is easily found across airport arrivals (blue line – M3) going directly to Piraeus port. The average trip to Piraeus lasts 1 hour.
• Taxis are available in front of the airport (around €40 to Athens, €55-60 to Piraeus (depending on the traffic in Kifisos), and take up to 3 or 4 people with small luggage)
• Rent a car with Discover Cars for reliable, new cars at affordable prices
• You don’t like driving but love hassle-free solutions? Book a Private transfer with an English-speaking driver from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Ferries, or anywhere else in Greece
• Are you looking for domestic flights in Greece ? Check out the official Aegean Airlines Website.

Did you visit the Greek Islands? Let me know what you think about visiting Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos in the comments, I’d love to hear whether I managed to get it onto your bucket list! Till next time, Evgenia❤️

My Most Popular Posts

• Greece Packing List – What to pack for a 10-day trip to Greece
• First Time to Greece – Most Important FAQ
• Mamma Mia Greece Locations – All the mainland and island shooting areas in Greece
• Athens Hotels Near Acropolis
• Apartments Near Acropolis

Some of my Favorite Travel Resources for Greece

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
• Booking.com : I use Booking.com mostly for Europe. It has over 1 Million properties to choose from, including everything from hotels to apartments and even hostels. And free cancellation!
• Expedia : I use Expedia for the best hotel descriptions and amenities and a rewards points system for the rest of the world.
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece
• FerryScanner to book f erries to the Greek Islands
• Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
• Athens Metro Website (timetables and ticket info)
• Map of Athens Metro
• Trains (Hellenic Train)
• Public Buses KTEL
• Get Your Guide : For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
• Emergency Numbers Anywhere in Greece: AMBULANCE 166 – FIRE 199 – POLICE 100 – EMERGENCY NUMBER 112

Evgenia Mataragka

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The one that conquers Greece’s 3 best islands in just over a week, kicking off in the historic capital  

8 days, 1 country

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3 nights in Hotels, 2 nights in Special Stay, 2 nights in Hostel

7 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

Average 30 people

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Hit up magical Mykonos, perky Paros and saucy Santorini in this sun-soaked 8-day Greek island extravaganza. Marvel at the natural and human-made architecture, from coves to cobblestones. Feast on feta and perfect your moves as you experience the legendary local nightlife. Villages and volcanoes await, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore Greece’s most famous islands. 

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What kind of seat will I have on the ferry?

You’ll find a standard seat reserved for you while you’re sailing between the mainland and islands. (Mhm, travelling just like the locals!)

Will the ferries have Wi-Fi?

Looking to disconnect from the world (and connect with your new travel pals)? Ferries are the place to be. The Wi-Fi and phone signal when sailing between islands (understandably) tends to be weak. That’s why we always recommend using an e-SIM or getting a local SIM so you can have continued connectivity. But there’s no need to worry if you don’t have one. All accommodations throughout the trip will have Wi-Fi available - so you can keep your Insta followers updated on all the fun!

Do all of the hotels have pools?

Almost every time. Most of our accommodations tend to have pool facilities. But hey, you’ve got the sparkling Aegean waters of Greece by your side. So if you wanna take a swim, you’ve got the entire sea to explore.

Can I know what time the ferry will depart & arrive?

Ferry departure & arrival timings tend to change for every trip. So if you’d like to know the exact time, you can contact our 24/7 customer service centre.

General FAQs

What is contiki.

Contiki are the world leaders in organized youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?

Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our two values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re About People’. We don’t just talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘ Travel.Together. ’ which means to travel with one another, with the destinations we visit, the people and cultures we enjoy and the environment.

You’ve never experienced travel like this.

Why only 18-35?

Focusing on 18-35 year olds allows us to tailor a dramatically more powerful travel experience and an itinerary so fun it feels like all of your best Friday nights combined.

Tailoring to select ages brings together like minded, likeable people, and allows us to use Social Travel planning to build great groups of people so fast you’ll wonder if you’ve been friends forever.

What destinations can I go to with Contiki?

A sunrise, shoreline or bright light for every whim. We are proud to offer more than 350 Global trips, intelligently designed for a seamless and simple social travel experience. Visit our search page to discover your perfect travel destination.

How does it work?

We’re reinventing hassle free travel. Whether you are a solo traveller or group you can be rest assured that there has been tonnes of planning behind every trip.

Booking with Contiki means you are saying yes to a smile inducing trip where the typically stressful elements just seem to magically happen.

No one does trips like Contiki, essential accommodation, transport, reservations and so much more is all taken care of. You can multiply the magic with trip add ons and numerous customisations for your free time.

Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment.

From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.

How many other travellers are on each trip?

Group sizes are completely dependent on where and how you choose to travel with Contiki. 

In Europe and in most of North America and New Zealand, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers. 

In regions like Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, and on some North America and New Zealand trips, our group sizes are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 30 travellers max.

Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

Wondering what is so great about travelling together? Check out the Contiki Social travel page.

Each group is administered according to our strict Covid policies which can be viewed here.

What’s included?

All essential trip elements have been catered to ensure a great time, with great people in great places. But you mean more specifically right?

Your accommodation, essential trip transport, and a good handful of meals are included in the cost of your Contiki trip (on most trips we offer breakfast every day, plus a hand-picked selection of authentic and tasty meals). 

To fill your days and Insta feeds we have Included Experiences, which are basically the sights and activities we think you just can’t afford to miss. Of course you also get our expert and highly trained team of Contiki staff to support throughout.

A day by day breakdown of inclusions and Free Time Add-Ons are available on the trip specific pages. 

We always try to accommodate special requests such as birthdays, proposals etc. Please chat to our team and we can explore how we may support the request.

What’s not included?

Contiki social travel trips have a large degree of flexibility built into them to enable you to truly own your experience. This means that some trip elements are not included in the initial cost and may require additional budgeting. 

Flights to and from your starting and ending points are not included in the cost of your trip. These can be added on during the booking process either online or via our contact center or booked independently by you.

Each trip contains the right amount of free time for you to explore or indulge your travel desires. We offer Free Time Add-Ons, which are additional experiences that are not included in the overall price. These add ons are highlighted on the specific trip page. Your Trip Manager will highlight these to you and organise their booking on trip. Exceptions may apply where pre booking is required but this will be made known to you in your pre departure information.

A number of meal times are left open for you to explore a region and its foodie offerings in greater detail, so budgeting for your taste in non-catered meals is important. 

Travel insurance and visas are also not included in the cost of your trip, and should be booked separately.

What are Contiki's sustainability credentials?

Travel comes with responsibilities. That’s why we’re determined to travel sustainably and consciously, and that’s why we’re willing to take a stand on issues closest to our hearts. Find out more details here . With the help of our four-point Climate Action Plan, we're now on a journey to Net Zero - committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a low-carbon future. Find out more details here .

Do I need to purchase travel insurance for this trip?

Yes! It’s a requirement of traveling with Contiki that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, personal liability & loss of personal property and Covid related expenses before you travel with us. It’s also super important to check that your insurance covers all of the activities you’ll be trying out, particularly any adventure activities (for all you adrenaline junkies). For more information check out our full travel insurance FAQs.

Can I stay in my destination a few days before/after the trip starts/ends? And can Contiki help me arrange this?

Yes and yes! You can add pre- and post-trip accommodation to your booking in one of three ways:

When booking your trip online

In the 'My Travel Portal' after you've made your booking

By calling us any time on 0808 281 1120

In certain cities, you may even be able to secure a preferential rate for you pre- or post-trip accommodation.

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Tips for planning a trip to Greece: Islands and archaeological sites of interest

Greece attracts visitors from all over the world ready to recognize landscapes, read and recreated before in their imagination, with heavenly beaches and dreamy islands.

But a trip to Greece has a lot to offer. Cradle of history and mythology, the Hellenic country offers endless options of beautiful islands with their respective archaeological sites, mostly UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here we detail some of them.

The Acropolis of Athens

Those who have never traveled to the Hellenic country cannot escape the magic of Athens , the land where western civilization was born. The Acropolis was inhabited since the end of the Neolithic era (2800 B.C. - 2500 B.C.), as evidenced by the ceramic remains found in the area, and for a long time it was used as a refuge for the inhabitants of its surroundings. The oldest buildings date back to the 14th century B.C. The Acropolis is a genuine testament to the golden age of Greece, between 461 and 429 B.C., the magical period displaying the height of Pericles' influence, in which the intellectual and artistic life of Athens flourished. It is believed to have been inhabited without interruption throughout the Bronze Age and the following times.

There is the temple of Athena Nike, built between 488 and 427 B.C. The Parthenon is a masterpiece of architecture conceived by Pericles and executed between 447 and 438 B.C. by the brilliant sculptor Phidias, who was also responsible for building the Erechtheum, located on top of the Acropolis (famous for the six maiden-shaped columns that support one of the doors: the caryatids), another masterpiece that you will find there.

The Acropolis is open every day from 08:00 to 17:00, and in spring and summer, it remains open until 19:00. The closing days of the archaeological site are January 1, March 25, May 1, Easter Sunday and December 25 and 26. Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket offices located at the entrance of the venue, and you can also buy your tickets online without lines. Both are valid to visit the entire archaeological site.

Minoan ruins on the island of Crete

Crete 's appearance in history is linked to the development of the Minoan civilization. When the first Achaean invaders (Indo-European Bronze Age people) arrived on the Cretan coast, during the 15th-13th century BC, the island had long enjoyed an advanced civilization: Homer called it "the island of one hundred cities”. Excavations begun in the 19th century have brought to light the impressive remains of one of the brightest civilizations of all time: in 1878, Minos Kalokairinos carried out the excavations of Knossos and its palace, belonging to King Minos. The hill of Knossos had been inhabited since the Neolithic, and the population spread over the surrounding terrain. Around 1900 BC, the top was leveled and the first palace was built; two centuries later, after an earthquake, the new palace was erected.

Knossos is 5 km from Heraklion, the capital of Crete, a hectic city with a lot of movement, typical of coastal cities. We recommend a walk through the Venetian port area and the streets of the center that will make you discover several interesting monuments, as well as being ideal for those who want to shop.

Delphi Ruins

On a trip to the city Delphi , you can visit The Temple of Apollo. The temple visible today (there were six others successively built on the site) dates back to the 4th century BC Above the temple is the theater, very well preserved, where 5,000 spectators could sit; the works, which started in the 3rd century BC, were not completed until 160 BC, and it was later restored by the Romans. The view from the theater is worth the climb, as is the view from the stadium, which is up the mountain, and represents the highest point of the old city. Embraced by a pine forest, this is a quiet refuge with the resounding majesty of the mountain as the background.

The Archaeological site of Olympia

Olympia is the ancient sanctuary of Zeus, one of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece. Located on the Peloponnese peninsula in mainland Greece, this is the place where the original Olympic Games were held in ancient times. Its extensive ruins encompass sports training areas, a stadium and temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus. Although the first Olympiad is believed to have taken place in 776 B.C., the bronze figures from the geometric period (10th-8th centuries) reveal that the sanctuary was already in use before then.

Although the visit could last a day, since there are many places to see in Olympia, a tourist visit will take approximately two and a half or three hours to see everything with ease and taking photographs. As in the rest of the archaeological sites of Greece, as in most places to visit in Olympia there is not much shade, so it is advisable to come with sunscreen, hat and water. ( See packages to Olympia in Travel to Greece ).

Delos Archaeological Site

Although Delos is a small islet, with hardly any natural resources, it was able to become the religious and political center of the Aegean. In 1000 BC, the Ionians, who inhabited the Cyclades, had made Delos their religious capital and introduced the cult of Apollo. Delos was excavated in 1873 by the French school of archeology in Athens and its main buildings are: The agora of the Competaliasts, a market next to the sacred port, built in the 2nd century BC. The temple of Delos or great temple, one of the three dedicated to Apollo, built from 478 BC, but whose works stopped in the middle of the century and were not restarted until the 3rd century BC.; the fountain of Minos, the terrace of the lions, the theater of the 3rd century BC, initially of marble and later of wood.

But this island is not only focused on its history and we must focus on the typical food of this island, which is one of the so-called Cyclades. The special geomorphology of these islands, together with the sea, the wind and the sun, determine the special characteristics and quality of the products produced on their land. Grapes, olives, legumes and vegetables that do not need too much water, tomato varieties, wild vegetables, wild artichokes, wild asparagus, capers, kritamo, among others, are the main raw materials of the islands in terms of food . Fishing, of course, is also an important element, while meat is scarcer and mainly used for celebrations. The Cycladic cheese is an incredible synthesis of flavors and aromas. ( See Delos packages in Trips to Greece ).

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Athens to Crete: Your Ideal 7-Day Itinerary

G reece, a land of captivating landscapes, rich history, and cultural treasures, is an ideal destination for a 7-day getaway. I highly recommend spending your 7-day itinerary investing your time going from Athens to Crete. In this way you’ll get the best of Greece in a short amount of time.

The different regions of Greece offer much art, culture, and architecture to experience but are spread out enough that you will need to decide on a general area of the country to visit. This sample itinerary shows you how you could experience a great first trip to Greece with a focus on the major historical sites around Athens and a bit of island time.

Athens: Day 1

Your seven-day adventure starts in Athens, the capital city of Greece. Arrive in Athens (If flying in from the United States do not go to bed. Stay up to get acclimated to the time zone difference). Catch your pre-arranged ground transportation service and drop your bags at your hotel.

Athens is known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture. I always start my Athens visits off at the Acropolis, an ancient citadel situated atop a rocky hill. Take in the picturesque views and marvel at the Parthenon, the crown jewel of Athens.

Then explore the ancient Agora, which was the heart of the city in the 5th century BC. End your day by dining at a local taverna and trying some authentic Greek cuisine such as tzatziki, moussaka, or souvlaki. You can read about Greek food here.

Athens: Day 2

There aren’t too many all-inclusive options in Greece, so make sure that you are booking a hotel that offers free breakfast. Take in history today with a visit to the Acropolis and Parthenon. I recommend watching the changing of the Greek Presidential Guard. I also recommend a visit to the Temple of Apollo and Temple of Zeus.

Acropolis – Where Legends Stand Tall

First, visit the Acropolis, an ancient citadel towering above the city. At its heart lies the iconic Parthenon, a marvel of classical architecture that has endured for centuries. Walking through these hallowed grounds, you’ll be transported to the height of ancient Greek civilization, surrounded by the remnants of temples and theaters that once echoed with the voices of philosophers and poets.

Sunset at Lycabettus Hill – A Captivating Panorama

Then, as the day draws to a close, ascend Lycabettus Hill to witness a breathtaking sunset over Athens. The panoramic view showcases the city’s sprawl against a backdrop of the setting sun. The magical transition from daylight to twilight offers a moment of reflection and appreciation for the vibrant history and culture that Greece exudes.

Athens: Day 3

Again, after breakfast and some fabulous Greek coffee, check out the Panathenaic Stadium which is where the first Olympics were held. Most importantly, head over to the Plaka to explore this historic city center and to grab lunch and enjoy the shops. Tonight is a perfect time to take a walking food tour.

Greek Coffee

From my experience, Greek coffee is not for everyone. Moreover, this cherished morning ritual holds more than just a caffeine fix. It’s a sensory journey into Greek history and flavors. Greek coffee, known as “ellinikos kafes,” is distinct from its global counterparts.

It’s made by slowly boiling finely ground coffee beans, water, and sugar in a small pot called a “briki.” What you get is a concentrated and strong brew that packs a punch of robust flavor. The method of preparation is as important as the coffee itself. The mixture is heated gradually, allowing the foam to rise. This foam, called “kaimaki,” is the hallmark of a well-made Greek coffee.

When it comes to enjoying Greek coffee, you have options that cater to varying tastes. For a traditional experience, opt for “sketos,” which is unsweetened. “Metrios” indicates a moderate amount of sugar, while “glykos” translates to sweet.

The amount of sugar can be customized to your preference, ensuring a personalized cup of coffee that suits your taste buds. Don’t discount it until you savor this rich elixir. It might take a moment to appreciate its cultural significance. Again, for more about Greek food, check out my post here!

Plaka – A Taste of Old Athens

Finally, venture into the charming Plaka neighborhood. Cobbled streets wind through a maze of shops, cafes, and tavernas, inviting you to explore. You’ll discover an array of traditional crafts, local delicacies, and picturesque corners perfect for leisurely strolls.

Crete: Day 4

Travel to crete.

Welcome to Crete, Greece’s magnificent island where history and myths intertwine with the present. Curious about the ferry ride duration from Athens? Get ready for a 7 to 9-hour journey that will have you on the edge of your seat with anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. Or, if you’re eager to embrace the island’s allure sooner, opt for a swift flight from Athens to Crete and save time.

Choosing Your Route: Fly or Ferry?

Now, the ultimate question is whether to fly or ferry from Athens to Crete. Let’s consider your travel preferences and style! If you’re all about speed and convenience, go for the thrilling flight, whisking you across the breathtaking Aegean Sea in a matter of hours.

On the other hand, if you crave a leisurely voyage, hop on the ferry and indulge in gazing at the mesmerizing endless blue waters while possibly making friends with fellow travelers along the way. No matter your choice, Crete awaits with its enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures, eager to captivate you.

Crete: Day 5

First, as you step onto the shores of Crete, a world of mythical landscapes and cultural treasures unfolds before you. The largest Greek island offers an array of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. This part of the itinerary begins by visiting the Palace of Knossos, a window into the fascinating Minoan civilization.

Next, walk through the labyrinthine corridors and chambers that are rich with history and myths. The vibrant frescoes and intricate architecture offer insights into the ancient way of life that once thrived here. The Palace of Knossos is a historical and archaeological marvel dating back to the Bronze Age.

Additionally, the site is located in the city of Heraklion and is considered to be the greatest archaeological site in Crete. The Palace of Knossos is known for its intricate architecture, frescoes, and ancient artifacts. A visit to the Palace of Knossos is like a journey back in time to the ancient Minoan civilization. The Palace of Knossos is a must-visit site for history buffs and those interested in Greek mythology.

Cretan Cuisine – Savoring Local Delicacies

Finally, on this night, try the local cuisine. Indulge in Cretan cuisine, renowned for its simplicity and rich flavors. Sample dishes like “dakos” (rusk with tomato and cheese), “stifado” (slow-cooked beef stew), and the famous Cretan “kalitsounia” pastries. Pair your meal with local wines and olive oil, and you’ll have a true taste of the island’s culinary heritage.

Crete: Day 6

Explore the samaria gorge.

Definitely, make the Samaria Gorge a 16 km long canyon located in the White Mountains of Crete a top priority. It is a popular hiking destination for adventure seekers. Moreover, the Gorge is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and unique flora and fauna.

The hike through the Samaria Gorge can take up to 6 hours, but it is worth it for the breathtaking scenery. The Samaria Gorge is open from May to October and is a must-visit for those who want to experience the natural wonders of Crete. Especially when you reach the picturesque village of Agia Roumeli and the sparkling waters of the Libyan Sea.

Crete: Day 7

Relax on elafonisi beach.

On the final day, I’d relax on Elafonisi Beach. This beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. The beach is located on the southwestern coast of Crete and is famous for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters. Elafonisi Beach is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

I found the area surrounded by a natural reserve, and the water shallow, which makes it perfect for children. Elafonisi Beach is the perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind in a picturesque location.

If you’d like a more romantic itinerary of Greece, specifically for couples, check out our post here!

Chania – Venetian Charms and Seaside Splendor

Explore Chania, a city that seamlessly blends Venetian influences with Cretan charm. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where colorful buildings and hidden courtyards beckon. The Venetian Harbor is a postcard-perfect scene, dotted with waterfront tavernas and shops. Don’t forget to visit the Chania Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into the island’s history.

Additional Excursion: Athens to Crete

Spinalonga island – a haunting history.

Consider a journey to Spinalonga Island, known for its haunting history as a former leper colony. The island’s Venetian fortress and abandoned buildings tell a story of resilience and isolation. A boat trip to this unique destination offers a blend of historical insight and stunning coastal views.

If you want to explore some of the other amazing Greek islands, check out my post here !

Athens & Crete: 7-Day Itinerary

As your time in Crete unfolds, you’ll find yourself immersed in a blend of history, nature, and gastronomy that’s unique to this captivating island. From ancient wonders to scenic hikes, Crete’s offerings cater to every traveler’s curiosity and interests.

Feel free to let me know if this covers the specific things you were looking to include about Athens or Crete. If you need further details or adjustments, please don’t hesitate to ask. You can contact me here.

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3 to 4 week Greek Island Itinerary - Greece Forum

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Do not want to add an overnight stay on another island unless we delete one of the islands listed. Is this too many islands to try to see? Is the nights on each island about right for the island? We would get a rental car on each island. Is this conducive to the ferry schedule between islands (i.e. regular ferries from island to island)? Should we delete islands and stay on remaining islands longer? We like beaches and touring the towns and villages on each island. We would like some clothing optional beaches with umbrellas and chairs to rent. Should we just fly into Crete and ferry and fly north depending on island distance? Any suggestions based on experience are welcome?

9 replies to this topic

This trip isn't until next year so you have plenty of time for planning.

I know you have got 4 weeks but you really need to reduce the number of islands on your itinerary.

You can waste a lot of time and money by constantly changing islands and time is better spent exploring places properly.

I think you could look at the guide attached on the link below and study the different island groups.

There may be islands that you have not considered that are a better fit with some already on your itinerary. especially in the Cyclades or the Dodecanese.

You should also read the top post on the main TA Greece forum which details island hopping and travel using ferries as this will help you work out a realistic route plan.

From looking briefly at your suggested itinerary I would drop the Corfu / Kefalonia/ Zante section and reallocate those days elsewhere. You need more days on Crete and definitely need to consider distances if you intend to visit islands in both the Cyclades and Dodecanese.

https://www.greektravel.com/greekislands/

You can’t ferry from the Ionians to Athens . I agree with the above and would scrap the Ionians. It’s a mistake to only do Symi as a day trip - the atmosphere on an evening when the daytrippers have gone is really special. There are other islands between Rhodes and Kos which you should at least research, and would be lovely in September.

I do agree with the posters above though, in that you will kill the joy if you try to do too much. Please don’t think of islands as places to tick off a list. With only such a short time, stick to one or two islands. That way relaxation lies. It isn’t a competition.

Corfu to Kefalonia?

I can see 1 ferry a week which is over 7 hours and another over 9 hours.

I think more research is required.

Even with a longer holiday like yours, it's still a good idea to concentrate on one group of islands. Else you will spend around a third of your days packing, getting to the port, checking in, waiting, waiting more if the ferry is late (not unusual), the ferry boarding scramble chaos. Then disembarking, finding your car /taxi/bus, lugging your cases around, finding your accommodation, unpacking, finding your way around the area...... takes a day each time, realistically.

I agree with what others are saying - way too many destinations and logistically challenging!

Know this is still more islands that recommended but dropped 3 islands and reduced travel to Ionian Islands. May do those on a future trip sometime. Should we just fly into Crete and ferry and fly north depending on island distance? This is a 26 night/27-day itinerary but don't want to go past 30 days.

We do like seeing lots of different places since we traveled this far so our appetite for island hopping may be greater than normal. We did Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos 2 years ago so 3 years ago by the time we do this trip. We loved those islands and do wish to go back. We like islands we can get in a rental car and explore rather than just remaining in the main town. Loved the mountain villages on Naxos.

Any major heartburn/concerns about this revised itinerary. I do appreciate the input. Thanks.

You will be able to see of" lots of different places" without continually moving and explore the islands you do visit properly.

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