Ferries

TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO THE GREEK ISLANDS

Ferry Crossings Between Greece and Turkey

There are six main ferry routes connecting the Greek Islands and Turkey, offering easy travel between these beautiful destinations.

Popular Ferry Routes:

• Samos → Kusadasi (Most popular)
• Kos → Bodrum
• Rhodes → Marmaris (Most popular)
• Rhodes → Fethiye (Most popular)
• Chios → Cesme
• Lesbos → Ayvalik

Estimated Travel Times:

 Ferry schedules may vary based on the season and weather conditions.

From Samos:

• Kusadasi – 1 hour 15 minutes
• Mykonos – 3 hours 20 minutes
• Paros – 4.5 to 7 hours
• Piraeus (Athens) – 10 hours 20 minutes

From Paros:

• Ios – 1 to 4 hours
• Santorini – 4 hours 30 minutes
• Piraeus – 3 hours 30 minutes
• Naxos – 30 minutes to 1 hour

From Ios:

• Santorini – 40 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes

From Santorini:

• Ios – 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
• Mykonos – 2 hours 35 minutes

From Piraeus (Athens):

• Samos – 10 hours
• Kos – 9 hours 40 minutes
• Chios – 7 hours 30 minutes
• Mykonos – 5 hours 15 minutes
• Santorini – 5 to 8 hours
• Crete – 7 hours
• Rhodes – 13 hours 10 minutes

From Corfu:

• Italy – 10 hours 45 minutes
• Patras – 6 hours

Essential Travel Tips for the Greek Islands

• Fast Ferries Available – Reduce travel time by half but expect to pay nearly double.
• Plan Around National Holidays – Ferry schedules may be limited.
• Exploring by Bike, Moped, or Foot? – Carry a detailed map for better navigation.
• Book Accommodation in Advance – In summer, hostels and pensions fill up quickly!
• Beware of Accommodation Scams – At ports, locals may offer rooms—check location & amenities before booking.

General Information:

• Schedules vary by island, especially on less touristy islands—expect some delays.
• The Cycladic Islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, etc.) have the best ferry connections.
• Rhodes has good links to Crete (with seasonal ferries to Santorini and Athens).
• Paros is a major hub with great connections to other islands and Athens.
• All islands are well-connected to Athens.

Greek Islands Overview: Top Destinations

Each island offers a unique experience—whether it’s history, nightlife, or stunning beaches.

Rhodes

• Famous for stunning beaches & Mediterranean cuisine.
• Rich in history: Knights of St. John castles & ancient churches.
• Visit St. Francis of Assisi Church, Panteleimon Church, and Agios Nikolaos Fountain.

Kos

• Ancient history dating back to 366 BCE.
• Explore Asklepion, Casa Romana, and Eleftherias Square.
• Best beaches: Agios Fokas, Lagada, Kamari, and Limnionas.

Lesbos

• Home to the ancient Greek poet Sappho.
• Unique Aegean beaches and scenic landscapes.
• Visit Petrified Forest, Commander of Lesbos Monastery, & Panagia Agia Sion.

Crete

• Birthplace of Zeus in Greek mythology.
• Explore Minoan ruins & the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
• Top sights: Old Venetian Harbor, Elafonissi Beach, and Imbros Gorge.

Symi

• Known for its music festivals & vibrant nightlife.
• Visit Panormitis Monastery & charming Kali Strata shopping street.
• Best beaches: Nanou, Marathounda, Agios Nikolaos, and Pedi Beach.

Samos

• Lush green hills, historic villages, & ancient ruins.
• Famous for Temple of Hera & Statue of Pythagoras.
• Beautiful beaches along the turquoise coastline.

Mykonos

• The “Ibiza of Greece”—renowned for luxury, nightlife & beaches.
• Visit 16th-century windmills, Little Venice, and Paradise Beach.
• Romantic, picturesque streets perfect for photos.

Paros

• Easy access to Santorini & Mykonos.
• Charming villages like Parikia & Naoussa.
• Best beaches: Santa Maria, Kolimbithres, and Parasparos.

Ios

• Popular for party culture, drawing a younger crowd.
• Mesmerizing beaches and vibrant nightlife in summer.
• Easy ferry access from Santorini, Paros, and Mykonos.

Santorini

• Most famous Greek island—incredible sunsets & volcanic landscapes.
• Iconic white-washed buildings & Caldera views.
• Best beaches: Kamari, Red Beach, Perissa, and Vlichada.

Corfu

• Influenced by Venetians, French, and British.
• Best for culture, food, & museums.
• Visit Byzantine Museum, Archaeological Museum, and Museum of Asian Art.

Need Help Planning Your Trip?

 Got questions? Our team is happy to assist in planning your Greek Island adventure!
 Visit our website for ferry bookings and travel itineraries.

Happy travels!