Greece: Athens, the islands and how to hop between them
- Best timeMay–Jun, Sep–Oct
- Cost$$ Mid-range
- Good forBeaches · History · Food
Greece gives you ancient history in Athens and island life a short ferry ride away. The mistake most first-timers make is trying to see too many islands.
A simple first trip
- Athens (2 to 3 days): the Acropolis and its museum, the old Plaka neighborhood, the ancient Agora and the National Archaeological Museum. Go early, because the Acropolis is hot and crowded by midday, and visits can be limited to timed slots in busy months.
- One or two islands (4 to 7 days): pick islands that suit you rather than the most famous ones.
- Optional extras: Delphi and Meteora's cliff-top monasteries, or the Peloponnese towns of Nafplio, Mycenae and Epidaurus.
Which island?
- Santorini and Mykonos: the famous views and nightlife, and the highest prices and biggest crowds.
- Naxos and Paros: beaches, villages, good food and lower prices. A good first choice.
- Milos: dramatic coves and rock formations. Easier with a rental car or quad bike.
- Crete: a large island with beaches, gorges and old towns. It deserves its own trip.
- Corfu and the Ionian islands: greener and on the western side, with a different feel.
When to go
May to June and September to early October have warm sea, good weather and fewer people. July and August are hot, crowded and expensive. In winter many island businesses close, but Athens is lively and quiet at the sights.
How ferries work
- Most Aegean ferries leave from Athens' ports, Piraeus and Rafina, and run between nearby islands.
- Compare operators on a booking site that shows several companies at once, or buy from the ferry company directly.
- High-speed boats are faster and cost more. Slower ferries are cheaper and have more room.
- Summer winds can cancel or delay sailings. Do not book a tight connection to a flight home. Plan a spare night.
- Book ahead for July and August, and for cars and peak days. In spring and fall you can often buy a day or two before.
Save money
- Stay in Athens' central neighborhoods near the metro instead of paying for a view.
- Eat where locals eat. Grilled meat wraps, fresh fish at simple tavernas and salads are cheap and good.
- Go in the shoulder season. See Travel in the cheapest season.
- Choose a smaller island. Prices are often a fraction of the famous ones.
- For rooms, compare small family-run guesthouses. See Book cheaper hotels.
Good to know
Greece uses the euro. Cards work in most places, but carry some cash for small tavernas and boats. Cover your shoulders and knees at monasteries and churches. Sun is strong, so bring a hat, sunscreen and a refillable bottle.
Plainly gives general information for everyday decisions. It is not professional medical, legal or financial advice. For personal situations, speak with a qualified professional.