Sail Away to Paradise: A Guide to Greek Island Hopping Holidays
Greece is known for its stunning islands, crystal-clear waters, and romantic sunsets. Beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and ancient ruins make Greece one of the most popular destinations in Europe. However, Greece’s islands are some of the world’s most idyllic getaways which make it an ideal destination for a sailing holiday. Set sail on a Greek island hopping experience that combines ancient history with the tranquil beauty that Greece is famous for.
With over 227 inhabited islands, island-hopping in Greece offers a seemingly endless selection of islands to choose from. However, it is often not an easy task to figure out which islands to visit and how to get there. Sail Away to Paradise is a guide for those who want to experience the Greek islands the traditional way, by sailing.
Getting There
The journey begins in Athens, where visitors can find marinas to rent a sailboat or book a sailing trip. A sailing holiday allows visitors to journey from one island to the next and explore Greece at their own pace. Island hopping can last anywhere from a single day to a month or more, depending on how many islands you want to see.
The best time to visit Greece is between mid-April to mid-June, and September to mid-October. During these periods, the temperatures are warm enough to sail and explore the islands, with fewer crowds than the peak summer season. However, the high summer season in July and August offers hot weather and a bustling nightlife.
FAQs
1. What do you need for a sailing holiday in Greece?
To have an enjoyable experience sailing in Greece, it is best to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Bring clothing that will keep you comfortable in the sun, wind, and rain. It is also important to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses that will protect you from the strong Greek sun. You will also require a sailing license to operate a boat in Greece. If you don’t have a license, you can hire a skipper.
2. How long should I spend in Greece?
The duration of your stay in Greece depends on how many islands you want to visit, and what activities you plan on engaging in during your stay. Usually, a two-week trip would suffice to visit several islands.
3. Is island hopping in Greece expensive?
Island hopping in Greece can be expensive, depending on the season and the type of accommodation you choose. However, the expenses can be managed by choosing budget-friendly options such as camping or hiring a sailboat with a group of friends.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions
1. Santorini: Known for its magnificent sunset and stunning views, Santorini is the most popular and picturesque of the Greek islands.
2. Mykonos: This island is famous for its charming beaches, thrilling nightlife, and lively atmosphere.
3. Crete: Greece’s largest island boasts rich history, a mix of cultures, and diverse landscapes.
4. Naxos: A popular destination for windsurfers, Naxos provides a tranquil environment, beautiful sandy beaches, and lovely villages.
5. Paros: A trendy island, popular for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports.
6. Rhodes: The island is home to the largest medieval city in Europe and offers visitors more than 3,000 years of history.
7. Zakynthos: Known as the “island of the turtles,” Zakynthos offers stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and picturesque villages.
8. Corfu: Known for its lush vegetation, fascinating history, and distinctive Venetian architecture.
9. Skiathos: Famous for its natural beauty, unspoiled beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
10. Hydra: This island offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, picturesque Greek architecture, and beautiful beaches.
Conclusion
Greece’s islands are a piece of paradise on earth. Island-hopping is the best way to explore and experience the beauty of all of them. Its picturesque beaches, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine make Greece one of the most beautiful destinations to visit. Sail Away to Paradise is a comprehensive guide that helps visitors make the most of their Greek island-hopping experience. With this guide, visitors can plan a trip that maximizes their time, budget, and gets them to experience the wonders of Greece.