A guide to island-hopping adventures in Greece

Island Hopping in Greece is an amazing way to discover hidden gems and soak up authentic Greek culture whilst visiting several islands, each offering a unique experience.

Travelling by boat between connected islands is a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint, whilst staying in locally owned accommodation and visiting local shops and restaurants that offer authentic dining experiences to support the local community are great ways to ensure you travel responsibly and reap the unique benefits at the same time.

There are thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas. While the popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos are undeniably beautiful, exploring lesser-known islands will provide a much more authentic and sustainable experience whilst offering unspoiled beauty, pristine beaches and stunning natural landscapes.

Whether you plan a tailor-made itinerary with ferry travel between islands, join a small island-hopping group tour or a sailing adventure by yacht – there are many ways to experience the Greek islands with options to suit all budgets.

To help you get started, here are some popular island-hopping combinations that allow you to explore different regions of Greece with regular ferry connections.

SARONIC (VIA ATHENS)

Group 1: Agistri, Aegina Group 2: Poros, Hydra, Spetses (note: can combine the groups with a change of ferry at Piraeus)

WESTERN CYCLADES (VIA ATHENS OR MYKONOS)

Group 1: Sifnos, Serifos, Milos, Folegandros Group 2: Andros, Tinos, Syros (also Mykonos)

EASTERN CYCLADES (VIA MYKONOS OR SANTORINI)

Mykonos, Syros, Paros, Naxos, Ios, Santorini (note: can combine with Western Cyclades Group 1 in season)

SMALL CYCLADES (VIA MYKONOS)

Koufonissi, Schinoussa, Amorgos (also with Naxos) (note: can combine with Eastern Cyclades or Western Cyclades Group 1 in season)

SPORADES (VIA SKIATHOS, WEEKLY DURATIONS ONLY)

Skopelos, Alonissos, Skiathos

DODECANESE (VIA RHODES OR KOS)

Rhodes, Symi, Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, Lipsi, Patmos. (Tilos and Halki are also possible to include but more tricky as the ferry schedules do not link very frequently with the rest of the island chain)

If this inspires your next Greek island hopping adventure, get in touch to plan and book your next holiday with a personal service, expert advice, and 100% financial protection.