How to Plan the Perfect Greek Island Vacation

When you think of an island getaway, Greece might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, this trending vacation destination saw more than 32 million visitors in 2023 alone. The country’s islands offer travelers the chance to experience rich history, stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque scenery. Choose the right islands, decide the best time to visit, and plan your travel routes wisely to create an unforgettable experience.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to the Greek Islands?

The best time to go island hopping in Greece depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. The high, shoulder, and low seasons all have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

High Season (July-August)

Summer is the most popular time to visit Greece, as island activities are in full swing. Temperatures sit between 77 and 95°F, making for lively crowds at the beach and nightlife scenes. To cater to the influx of visitors, ferries and flight services are at their peak operations. Travelers visiting Greece during the high season should expect accommodation and transportation costs to be higher.

Shoulder Season (May-June and September-October)

The shoulder season brings pleasant temperatures around 68 to 86°F and fewer tourists than the high season. It’s an excellent time for couples, families, and travelers who want to balance good weather and smaller crowds to visit. Accommodation and transportation costs are usually slightly lower during this period. Most services are still fully operational, though things begin to wind down in October.

Low Season (November-April)

If you’re looking for the lowest prices and a more authentic experience, consider going Greek island hopping during the low season. Just note that some seasonal services may be shut down during this time of year, and ferries may operate on limited schedules. Temperatures also drop to around 50 to 68°F, so the low season is better suited for those interested in viewing historical sites or going hiking instead of hanging out at the beach.

How to Travel Between Greek Islands

The most common and scenic way to travel between islands is by ferry. You’ll find both high-speed ferries, which are faster but pricier, and conventional ferries, which offer a slower but more relaxed and budget-friendly journey. Flights are also a good option for travelers visiting far-apart islands or looking for a way to save on travel time. Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Sky Express operate domestic flights to many of Greece’s top island destinations. While flights are more often more expensive than ferries, they’re ideal for covering longer distances quickly. You can also choose to fly between distant islands and use ferries for shorter, more scenic trips.

How Long Should a Greek Island Hopping Trip Last?

The length of your trip will determine how many islands you can comfortably visit. Shorter trips lasting five to seven days will require a faster-paced itinerary. Ideally, these trips should include no more than three islands. Stick to islands that are closer together, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos, allowing you to see a few key attractions on each island.

Vacations lasting 10 to 12 days give you time to explore three or four islands more thoroughly, providing a nice mix of relaxation and sightseeing without feeling rushed. Longer trips over two or three weeks mean you can comfortably visit five or six islands at a leisurely pace. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in each island, discovering experiences off-the-beaten-path and engaging with the culture.

Must-See Greek Islands

Whether you are looking for beaches to sunbathe on or vibrant cultural experiences, these six Greek islands should be on your island hopping list.