Hello, wanderlusters! As the summer season kicks into high gear, it's time to take a deep dive into an iconic bucket-list destination: the Greek islands. Ah yes, these sun-drenched jewels of the Mediterranean have been a magnet for discerning travelers for millennia, and today we're going to embark on an incredible journey to island hop our way through Greece's best.
Getting Ready
When planning your Greek island hopping adventure, remember that the islands are grouped into clusters: the Cyclades, the Ionian, the Dodecanese, the Sporades, and the Aegean islands. Each cluster has its unique flavor and character. So, let's pack our bags (pack light, trust me on this one), bring along our spirit of adventure, and let's dive in.
The Cyclades: Santorini, Mykonos, and More
Our journey begins in the Cyclades, the picture-perfect cluster that houses the famous duo - Santorini and Mykonos. The striking white-and-blue architecture of Santorini's cliff-clinging towns of Fira and Oia will leave you in awe, as will the spectacular sunsets. Remember to visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri and the beautiful Red Beach while you're there.
Next, it's off to Mykonos, the stylish island known for its vibrant nightlife, charming old town (Chora), iconic windmills, and sun-soaked beaches. Psarou and Super Paradise beaches are must-visits.
Other islands in the Cyclades that are worth a stop include Naxos with its impressive Portara and the tranquil, lesser-known isles of Paros and Antiparos.
The Ionian Islands: Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos
A short hop to the west of mainland Greece, the Ionian islands offer a more lush, green scenery than the arid Cyclades. Corfu, with its Venetian flair and historical Old Town, is a cultural delight. Paleokastritsa Beach and Monastery and the Achilleion Palace are among the must-sees here.
On Kefalonia, one of the largest Ionian islands, you'll find a mixture of stunning beaches, quaint villages, and intriguing caves. Don't miss the Melissani Cave, a sunlit, turquoise lake inside a cave. And for movie buffs, the idyllic village of Fiskardo was a filming location for "Captain Corelli's Mandolin".
Zakynthos is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, especially the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), accessible only by boat. This photogenic spot, with its rusted shipwreck and high cliffs, is a sight to behold.
The Dodecanese: Rhodes and Kos
Towards the southeastern edge of the Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese islands await. Rhodes, known as the island of the Knights, is rich in history and architecture. The medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit. And don't forget the ancient city of Kamiros and the Valley of the Butterflies.
Kos, the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, offers beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages. The Asklepion, an ancient healing center, is a notable historical site here.
The Sporades: Skiathos and Skopelos
These verdant islands are a wonderful choice for nature lovers. Skiathos may be small, but it boasts over 60 beautiful beaches. Koukounaries and Lalaria Beach are among the best.
Skopelos, famous as the shooting location for "Mamma Mia!", is a perfect mix of green landscapes and blue sea. The Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, where some of the movie's scenes were filmed, offers a fantastic view after a steep climb.
Getting Around
Traveling between islands is relatively easy with Greece's extensive ferry system. The main ferry companies include Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, Hellenic Seaways, and Aegean Speed Lines. Tickets can be booked online or at local travel agencies. Be prepared for possible delays due to weather conditions.
The island groups are fairly distant from each other, so it may be more practical to focus on one group per trip, unless you have a lot of time or prefer to fly. Domestic flights operate between certain islands and the mainland.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for island hopping in Greece is between late April and early October. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot and crowded, especially on the more popular islands. Spring and autumn are milder and less busy, and you'll have more chances to interact with the locals.
And there you have it, my friends - the comprehensive guide to island hopping in Greece. It's a dreamy, sun-kissed adventure that promises to fill your senses with stunning visuals, tantalizing tastes, and vibrant culture. So here's to a summer full of Greek adventures - Yamas!
Stay tuned for more travel stories and tips. Until then, happy travels!
Disclaimer: Please be mindful of the ongoing COVID-19 situation. Travel rules and regulations are continually changing, so please ensure you check the latest guidelines and travel advisories before booking your trip.
