Greece’s scattered islands and unique beauty attract people from all over the world, so why would you want to limit yourself to just one island when you could make the most of your journey and hop around, taking in its history, stunning weather and rich culture?
Some islands are so large and full of potential that getting around them would take a moped, rental car, or taxi. In others, you’ll only find a small port and an interior covered in forests, surrounded by walkable rocky or sandy coves. Everywhere you look, you’ll see quiet beaches, little churches, sun-kissed portside bars, and waterfront tavernas. Furthermore, there are hotels in the Greek Isles that will genuinely entice backpackers to stay longer.
The question when it comes to how to craft the perfect Greek island hopping adventure can be overwhelming and seem like it is too much. But that’s where we come in and here we will provide the perfect plan for you to follow this summer.
For You First Timers: The Argo-Saronics
If you are new to the holiday type of island hopping, then this is the perfect way to dip your toe into the excitement of jumping from place to place.
Route: Athens – Poros – Hydra – Spetses
These clusters of islands dotting the Greek mainland are a great place to start if you’re not sure if island hopping is for you. They’re close to the capital city of Athens and its port, Piraeus. After a few elegant evenings in the capital, take the ferry to Poros, which is only a little over an hour away. Here, you’ll find a few hotels and apartments, along with a chic little red-roofed port topped with a clock tower. After enjoying a meal by the waterfront, explore Love Bay’s emerald waters.
History buffs in Poros can go and visit these places before moving on:
- Temple of Poseidon: While the ruins remain, the temple itself is a sight to behold, offering panoramic views of surrounding islands dating back to the 6th century.
- Mediaeval Castle of Poros: Explore the remnants of a 13th-century castle with a rich history that used to overlook the town.
Hydra is a small, glitzy island that is only 35 minutes away by boat and has drawn photographers, artists, and musicians since the 1960s. Take in the picturesque port and bars at sunset, stroll along the coast road to discover hidden pebble bays, or take a boat ride to its most tranquil areas.
History buffs in Hydra can go and visit these places before moving on:
- Monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin: dating back to the 17th-century monastery, it offers beautiful views and offers a range of historical artefacts that each tell their own story.
- Boulgaris Tower: Something for your adventurous travellers, you can climb this Venetian watchtower to only be rewarded with insane views and learn about its role in pirate defence.
Spetses, a tranquil, car-free island where the recent movie The Lost Daughter was filmed, is the next stop, located forty minutes away. Explore the Cave of Bekiris, small whitewashed churches, and one of Greece’s oldest lighthouses. Then, take a 2.5-hour catamaran ride back to Piraeus to catch a flight out of Athens.
History buffs in Spetses can go and visit these places before heading back home:
- Bouboulinas Mansion: There is a mansion open to visiting Admiral Laskarina Bouboulinas, a heroine of the Greek War of Independence.
- Armata Shipyard: Here you can witness traditional wooden boats under construction and learn about Spetses’ maritime history.
Beach Bums: Blissful Shores and Sun-Kissed Sands
If you love a bit of relaxation and want to soak up the natural wonders of Greece, then this route might be right up your street.
Route: Santorini – Milos – Sifnos – Paros – Mykonos
If your ideal vacation involves toes sinking into soft sand, the Aegean beckons. Start in Santorini, where volcanic cliffs plunge into cerulean waters, creating iconic landscapes and black sand beaches like Perissa. Take a dip in the volcanic hot springs for ultimate relaxation.
History buffs in Santorini can go and visit these places before moving on:
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site: dating back to 3,600 BC, it was buried by a volcanic eruption. Today, you can explore the excavated ruins, including houses, workshops, and frescoes, offering a glimpse into this ancient civilization.
- Ancient Thera: Perched on a cliff overlooking the caldera, this archaeological site showcases ruins of the Hellenistic and Roman eras, including temples, theatres, and agora.
Don’t miss Milos, just a 2-hour ferry ride away, with its otherworldly rock formations and diverse beaches: the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko, the colourful pebbles of Tsigrado, and the secluded gem of Plathiena.
History buffs in Milos can go and visit these places before moving on:
- Catacombs of Milos: early Christian underground cemeteries dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, featuring unique architectural features and religious imagery, is truly a beautiful and incredible thing to say you’ve seen.
- Ancient Theatre of Milos: Located near Adamas, this well-preserved theatre dates back to the 3rd century BC and offers stunning views of the bay. It shouldn’t be missed off your list.
Next up, you have the wonders of Sifnose, only a short 40 minutes away, where you are spoilt for choice on where to wander. Filled with the famous Greek feature of whitewashed walls, you could explore some of its wonderful cultures and pick up a few things to remind you of your travels.
History buffs in Sifnose can go and visit this place before moving on:
- Castle of Agios Andreas: Dating back to the 13th century, this Venetian castle offers panoramic views of the island and houses a small museum.
You have some time to stop off at the beautiful Paros, which adds some crazy, wild nightlife to the picture, perfect for those who enjoy drinking, smoking, velo pouches and socialising. Expect to see a lot of smoking in Greece, especially in areas like Paros.
History buffs in Paros can go and visit this place before moving on:
- Venetian Castle of Paros: Built in the 13th century, this imposing castle offers breathtaking views of the town and harbour.
Last but certainly not least is your journey to Mykonos, a 40-minute boat ride from Paros, where vibrant beach clubs like Paradise Beach pulsate with energy or seek serenity in hidden coves like Lia.
History buffs in Mykonos can go and visit this place before moving on:
- Delos Archaeological Site: Just a short ferry ride from Mykonos, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts ruins of temples, sanctuaries, and theatres dating back to the Archaic and Hellenistic periods.
Fun Fact: Did you know Santorini’s unique landscape is a remnant of a massive volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago? This cataclysm submerged the Minoan settlement, now an underwater archaeological site accessible by scuba divers! You could make the most of this during your travels; it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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