Island hopping from Piraeus: Ferry routes you shouldn’t miss

Island-hopping in Greece is one of the best ways to experience its beauty, and Piraeus, Athens’ main port, is where it all begins.

From here, ferries connect you to dozens of islands, each with its own charm. But with so many choices, it can be hard to decide where to go. That’s where our article comes in handy.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

  • The best ferry routes from Piraeus.
  • Popular islands to visit.
  • Hidden gems are less known to tourists.
  • Tips to make your island experience smooth sailing.

Keep reading to plan your perfect Greek island-hopping adventure!

Why Piraeus?

Piraeus is the main port of Athens, Greece, and is a crucial hub for passenger and cargo transport. Located on the Saronic Gulf, it is the largest port in Greece and one of the busiest in Europe. The port connects the mainland to numerous Aegean islands and Crete, making it an essential gateway for travelers. 

Piraeus port is not just about ferries; it also supports significant trade activities. The port features multiple terminals, including container and cargo facilities, which handle millions of tons of goods each year. With its strategic location, Piraeus is vital in international shipping routes, especially those connecting Europe and Asia.

Popular Islands to Visit

Cyclades Islands

The Cyclades are popular for their stunning beaches and charming villages. Here are some top picks:

  1. Santorini
  • Santorini is famous for its tantalizing sunsets and iconic white-washed buildings. Don’t forget to visit the fascinating ancient ruins of Akrotiri!
  • Ferries run several times a day.
  • Tickets usually cost around €40-€60.
  1. Mykonos
  • Mykonos is famous for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches like Paradise Beach.
  • You can catch a ferry almost every hour.
  • Prices range from €30-€50.
  1. Naxos
  • Naxos offers a rich history and lovely beaches. Make sure to visit the Temple of Apollo.
  • Ferries leave frequently, with prices around €20-€40.
  1. Paros
  • Paros is great for water sports and has charming villages like Naoussa.
  • Ferries are available throughout the day, costing about €20-€35.

Saronic Islands

The Saronic Islands are closer to Athens and perfect for quick getaways. Here are some you should consider:

  1. Hydra
  • Hydra is a car-free island known for its art scene and scenic views. It’s a great place to relax and wander.
  • Ferries run often, with tickets costing about €40.
  1. Spetses
  • Spetses has beautiful architecture and lovely beaches. It’s perfect for a peaceful day trip.
  • You can find ferries running regularly at prices around €30-€50.
  1. Aegina
  • Aegina is famous for its pistachios and ancient ruins. Be sure to try the local pistachio ice cream. I promise you, it’s to die for!
  • Ferries leave frequently, usually costing about €20.

Overview of Popular Islands to Visit in Greece

Here’s a table summarizing the popular islands to visit from Piraeus, including ferry details such as daily crossings and ticket prices:

IslandDaily CrossingsApproximate Ticket Price (€)Highlights
SantoriniUp to 845Stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, ancient ruins.
MykonosUp to 743Vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches like Paradise Beach.
NaxosUp to 942Rich history, lovely beaches, Temple of Apollo.
ParosUp to 840Great for water sports and charming villages.
HydraUp to 838Car-free island, art scene, scenic views.
SpetsesUp to 750Beautiful architecture, lovely beaches.
AeginaUp to 3010-19Famous for pistachios and ancient ruins.
AgistriUp to 2013Quiet beaches and nature trails.
PorosUp to 2013Charming town with pine-covered hills.

This table provides a quick overview of the most popular islands you can visit from Piraeus, making planning your island-hopping adventure easier!

Lesser-Known Islands

If you want to explore beyond the popular spots, consider these hidden gems:

Folegandros

  • This island has stunning landscapes and a quiet charm.
  • Ferries are less frequent but worth the trip.

Milos

  • Milos is known for its unique beaches, such as Sarakiniko, which look like moon landscapes.
  • Ferries run regularly, with around €30-€50 ticket prices.

Koufonisia

  • These small islands have crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
  • Ferries might not be available daily, but this island offers an incredible experience.

Tips for Island-Hopping in Greece

Here are some tips to make your island-hopping easier:

  1. Travel Off-Peak: Try visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) if possible. The islands are less crowded, so you can relax and enjoy them more.
  2. Book Tickets in Advance: During peak season, ferries can fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to book your tickets online ahead of time.
  3. Day Trips vs. Overnight Stays: Some islands are great for day trips, while others deserve an overnight stay. Think about what you want to do before deciding how long to stay on each island.

Final Thoughts

Island-hopping from Piraeus opens the door to a world of stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Each island you visit has its own unique charm, from the iconic sunsets of Santorini to the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos

But it’s not just about the popular spots; lesser-known islands like Folegandros and Koufonisia offer hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.  

So, as you plan your adventure, remember that the Greek islands are endlessly calling. Are you ready to answer and sail away?