A popular European country renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture boasting 220 islands is named one of the “best” for island hopping. With 227 inhabited islands, Greece has been crowned with the amazing title.
Travel experts at Planet Cruise analysed key data points – ranging from safety scores to ferry costs and social media buzz – to identify the ultimate island hopping destinations around the globe.
Greece also enjoys a pleasant average summer temperature of 26.7C and offers budget-friendly ferry crossings at around £10.
For family-friendly adventures, explore the stunning beauty of Kefalonia or Crete. Partygoers can find excitement in Kavos on Corfu or Faliraki on Rhodes.
For those seeking luxury, Mykonos and Santorini provide the perfect mix of upscale glamour and spectacular views.
Island hopping in Greece is an iconic travel experience, offering a mix of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
With thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, each with its own unique charm, Greece provides endless opportunities for exploration.
The most popular group of islands for hopping, the Cyclades include famous destinations like Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros.
This region is known for its whitewashed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. Each island has its own distinct vibe – Mykonos is the place to party, Santorini offers romantic sunsets, and Paros provides a laid-back, traditional Greek atmosphere.
Located closer to Turkey, this group includes Rhodes, Kos, and Patmos. These islands are steeped in history, with medieval castles, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches.
Rhodes is famous for its well-preserved Old Town, while Patmos is known for its religious significance as the place where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation.
On the western side of Greece, the Ionian Islands like Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos offer lush landscapes and some of the most picturesque beaches in the country.
Corfu is known for its Venetian architecture, Kefalonia for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters, and Zakynthos for the iconic Navagio Beach, with its shipwreck nestled in a secluded cove.
Greece’s largest island, Crete, offers a diverse experience with its ancient ruins, such as the Palace of Knossos, stunning beaches like Elafonissi, and vibrant cities like Chania and Heraklion.
While not part of an island chain, Crete can be a perfect starting or ending point for your island-hopping adventure.
The most common way to hop between islands is by ferry. Greece has an extensive ferry network connecting most of its islands.
Fast ferries are available for shorter travel times, while conventional ferries offer a more leisurely journey with the opportunity to enjoy the sea views.
Some islands, especially the larger ones like Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu, have airports with domestic flights, making it easy to cover longer distances quickly.