Island-Hopping in Greece: Live Your Summer Fantasy
Greece is a dream destination for many travelers, and island-hopping is a perfect way to get a glimpse of the enchanting Greek lifestyle. There are over 6,000 islands scattered around Greece, but only about 200 of them are inhabited, offering endless possibilities for island exploration.
Island-hopping is a popular activity among tourists, and for good reason. The experience of hopping from one island to another is unparalleled, and each island has its own unique charm, culture, and beauty. The crystal-clear waters surrounded by stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches, delicious Greek cuisine, and rich history make Greece an ideal destination for island-hopping.
Island-Hopping: A Guide
The essential aspect of island-hopping is transportation. There are two primary methods of transportation in Greece – ferries or flights. Ferries are the most popular mode of transportation for island-hopping in Greece. There are various ferry companies that operate in Greece, including Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, and Hellenic Seaways. They offer different types of ferries such as high speed, conventional or car ferries. The cost for the ferry ticket varies based on the type of ferry and the distance between the two islands. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure that you get the tickets you want. Schedules and routes of ferries can be easily found on their respective websites.
Flights are an option as well, but they are more expensive compared to ferries. Aegean Airlines and Olympic Airlines are two major airlines that operate domestic flights within Greece. Flights are available between the major cities within Greece as well as some of the popular islands. However, it is recommended to avoid flights to minimize the carbon footprint of our trips.
The best time to go island-hopping in Greece is from April to mid-June or from mid-September to October. During this period, the weather is comfortable, and the crowds are less than during peak season. July and August are the busiest months, where the temperatures can soar in the high thirties, and you might have to share your favorite spot with other tourists.
The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Island-Hopping in Greece
1. Santorini
Santorini is one of the most famous islands in Greece, known for its stunning sunsets, gorgeous beaches, blue domes, and white houses. The island is also home to one of the most picturesque villages in Greece, Oia. The volcanic beaches, hot springs, and black sand make Santorini a unique island to visit.
2. Mykonos
Mykonos is one of Greece’s most popular islands, known for its nightlife, stunning beaches, and picturesque streets. The island is known for its vibrant party scene and is popular with young people. The island’s architecture is influenced by the Cycladic style, comprising white cubes with blue doors and windows.
3. Crete
Crete is the largest island in Greece and is rich in history and culture. The island is home to several museums, archaeological sites, and traditional villages, where you can experience the traditional Greek lifestyle. Crete is also known for its delicious cuisine, especially its seafood. Several stunning beaches like Balos and Elafonisi can be found on the island.
4. Naxos
Naxos is another island worth visiting during your island-hopping tour. The island is known for its medieval architecture in the old town, the Portara, a temple dedicated to Apollo, and its stunning sandy beaches. Naxos is also famous for its delicious potatoes that grow in fertile valleys on the island.
5. Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the largest islands in Greece and is known for its medieval old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is also known for its stunning beaches, water parks, ancient acropolis, and colorful Mandraki harbor. Rhodes has a rich history and is home to several archaeological sites.
6. Paros
Paros is a laid-back island with stunning beaches, quaint villages, and an exciting nightlife scene. The island is covered with white marble, and several ancient quarries exist on the island, supplying the famous Parian marble, which was used in ancient Greece for sculpture and architecture.
7. Zakynthos
Zakynthos is a stunning island known for its turtle nesting beaches, dramatic landscapes like the Navagio beach, and crystal clear waters. The island also has several charming villages with a rich history, where you can experience traditional Greek life.
8. Corfu
Corfu is one of the most stunning islands in Greece, with a rich history and culture. The island has been under the rule of the Venetians, the French, and the British, leaving a rich blend of history and culture. The island is known for its stunning beaches, historic old town, and charming villages.
9. Skiathos
Skiathos is a verdant island, known for its dense vegetation, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The island is also known for its exciting nightlife scene, where you can party until the early hours of the morning.
10. Hydra
Hydra is a peaceful island, known for its lack of motorized vehicles, stunning crystal-clear waters, and its picturesque harbor. The island is surrounded by rocky hills, and the houses are built in the neoclassical style.
FAQs about Island-Hopping in Greece
Q. Do I need a visa to visit Greece?
A. Citizens of the EU, the USA, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa to visit Greece if their stay is less than 90 days.
Q. What is the currency in Greece?
A. Euro
Q. Is it safe to travel in Greece?
A. Greece is a safe country, with low crime rates.
Q. Can I drink the tap water in Greece?
A. Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Greece.
Q. What is the best time to visit Greece?
A. The best time to visit Greece is from April to mid-June or from mid-September to October.
Q. Do I need any vaccinations to visit Greece?
A. There are no mandatory vaccinations to visit Greece, but it is recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B.
In conclusion, Greece is a perfect destination for island-hopping, offering breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, rich history, delicious cuisine, and a relaxed lifestyle. Island-hopping in Greece is an experience like no other, where you can explore different islands, each with its own unique charm and beauty. We hope this guide inspires you to embark on an island-hopping adventure in Greece and create unforgettable memories.