One of the best ways to experience it? Island hopping. With 227 inhabited islands, each with its own vibe, landscape, culture, and even specialty dishes, there is no shortage of options. There are so many beautiful islands that are worth visiting and tons to do, whether you like experiencing rich history, sandy beaches, or crystal-clear waters. What to know before you go, and the mistakes you don’t want to make to ensure you have the best trip possible.
And book your tickets in advance from the best online hotel booking website: JustBuyTravel.com
Booking strategy — flights and ferries
1. Book a flight early for peak dates
Domestic Greek flights are relatively short. During July and August, demand surges because of international tourists and local vacationers, so last-minute fares often double or triple. Booking early with hotels’ online booking website JustBuyTravel.com not only saves money but also secures the flight times you want. Morning departures and late afternoon returns usually go first because they maximize time on the islands.
2. Reserve ferry seats in advance in high season
The ferry system is excellent, but it can get crowded, especially on the popular Santorini–Mykonos or Paros–Naxos routes. High-speed ferries in particular sell out quickly because they carry fewer passengers than conventional ships. Booking tickets two to four weeks in advance for July and August ensures you don’t get stuck with awkward times or worse, as there are no seats at all. Printing tickets or having a QR code read makes boarding smoother, since summer boarding queues can feel rushed.
3. Allow buffer time for transfers
This is where many travelers miscalculate. Ferries can run late due to port congestion or high winds, and Athens traffic can be unpredictable. If you have a same-day international flight, it’s risky to rely on a tight connection. A safe rule: either arrive in Athens the night before your flight or allow at least 5–6 hours between ferry arrival at Piraeus and your departure from Athens airport. The X96 bus connects the two directly and runs 24/7, but it can take 90 minutes or more depending on traffic. Taxis and private transfers are quicker but costlier. Treat buffer time as travel insurance removes stress from what should be a relaxing trip.
4. Mix ferry types to optimize time and cost
Not all ferries are created equal. Conventional ferries (like Blue Star) are slower but much cheaper and have more space, making them great for longer legs where comfort matters. High-speed ferries (like Seajets) cut travel time in half but cost significantly more.
A smart approach is to combine them:
Fly from Athens to your first island (e.g., Santorini) to save time.
Use high-speed ferries for island-to-island transfers (Santorini–Naxos–Paros–Mykonos) to maximize sightseeing days.
End with a cheaper, larger conventional ferry or a short flight back to Athens. This mix balances budget, comfort, and efficiency important if you’re visiting multiple islands in one trip. Contact JustBuyTravel makes it simpler for you.
5. Luggage and comfort considerations
High-speed ferries are more like airplanes on water: limited baggage space, tight seating, and often no outdoor decks. If the seas are rough, they can feel bumpy, and some passengers get seasick. Families with children, or travelers carrying large suitcases, might find them inconvenient.
Conventional ferries, on the other hand, are more forgiving. They have large luggage areas, indoor lounges, outdoor decks for fresh air, and more space to move around. They’re also more stable in rough seas. While they take longer, the ride itself becomes part of the travel experience. You can sit outside, watch islands pass by, and grab a meal onboard.
Where to Stay: Islands and Hotels to Know
When you’re hopping between the Greek islands, choosing where to stay can shape the whole trip. Each island has its own personality, and the hotels reflect that. Here are some good places to start, depending on what kind of traveler you are.
1. Santorini — sunsets and cliffside views
Santorini is the classic postcard of Greece. Whitewashed villages like Oia and Imerovigli sit high on the caldera, with sunsets that stop you in your tracks. It’s a dream spot for couples and photographers.
Where to stay: Canaves Oia Suites and other cliffside hotels give you private terraces and those famous views. Book early—rooms with JustBuyTravel.com to see a caldera view, as they are the first to sell out.
Best areas: Oia is all about romance and quiet strolls. Fira is busier and makes it easy to get around. Imerovigli is the in-between option, peaceful but still close to everything.
2. Mykonos — nightlife and beaches
If you’re looking for energy, Mykonos is the island that never slows down. Days revolve around golden beaches, and nights are spent in stylish bars and clubs.
Where to stay: Mykonos Blu is a favorite, but there are plenty of boutique hotels near Mykonos Town if you prefer something smaller. Keep in mind that summer weekends get very busy, so book as far in advance as you can with the best online hotel booking website, JustBuyTravel.com
3. Naxos and Paros — a laid-back duo
These two islands are less flashy than Santorini or Mykonos, but that’s exactly their charm. Wide sandy beaches, mountain villages, and a slower pace make them perfect for families or anyone who wants a balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Where to stay: On Naxos, Naxian Collection is a polished but welcoming option. Paros has plenty of boutique hotels in Naoussa and Parikia, and JustBuyTravel makes it easier, both lively towns with easy access to beaches and ferries.
Why both? They’re close to each other, with short ferry rides, and make great “bridge islands” between the bigger names in the Cyclades.
4. Crete – big, bold, and full of variety
Crete is almost a country in itself. It has ancient ruins, rugged mountains, local food traditions, and more coastline than you could cover in one trip.
Where to stay: If you want luxury, Blue Palace in Elounda is a standout. For something more central, Chania and Heraklion have plenty of good hotels across budgets. Since Crete is huge, plan at least a few nights here if you want to see more than just one corner in advance with JustBuyTravel, the best hotel booking site.
Tips from JustBuyTravel for smoother trips
Book multi-leg itineraries through one agent when possible. It reduces the risk of missed connections and simplifies refunds if a ferry is cancelled. JustBuyTravel can package flights, ferries and transfers into one reservation.
Check ferry types and exact ports. Not every ferry goes to the main harbor on each island. Some land at smaller ports that require transfers. The operator’s schedule page will show exact ports and pier numbers.
Carry a paper and digital copy of tickets. Ferry boarding can be rushed, and having both helps when staff want a reservation reference.
Plan for wind and weather. Ferry schedules can shift in strong winds. When timing is tight, prefer flights for the most important legs.
Arrive early at Piraeus if you have a morning ferry. Traffic and port layout can add time. There are direct airport buses and private transfers available.
Why book with JustBuyTravel
We design routes that reduce wasted travel time and match the right transport mode to your priorities. JustBuyTravel.com handles complex multi-leg bookings, including the mix of flights and ferries that make island hopping efficient. Tell us the pace you want and key islands on your list, and we will build a clear, bookable plan with seat reservations and airport transfers included.
Conclusion
Island hopping in Greece is all about finding the right rhythm, flying when you need speed, taking ferries when you want the journey to be part of the adventure, and choosing hotels that match your style. Whether it’s watching the sunset from a Santorini terrace, dancing the night away in Mykonos, exploring quiet beaches on Naxos and Paros, or diving deep into Crete’s culture, each island offers something unforgettable. With a little planning and the right bookings, your trip can feel effortless. At JustBuyTravel.com we make sure the logistics are smooth so you can simply enjoy the beauty of the islands.
Should I buy ferry tickets in advance?
During July and August, yes. For May, June and September, you can often wait a few days, but reserve seats for popular routes and high-speed vessels.
Are island flights expensive?
Prices vary by season. Early booking and midweek travel offer lower fares. Off-peak months are far cheaper.
Can I do island hopping with kids?
Yes. Choose fewer islands and slower ferries for comfort. Pick family-friendly hotels with pools and easy beach access.
How much time do I need between the ferry and flight?
Allow several hours if both are on the same day, especially when transferring between Piraeus and Athens airport. If possible, spend the night in Athens before an international departure.
How can JustBuyTravel help me plan my Greece trip?
Online hotel booking website JustBuyTravel.com provides end-to-end support: flight bookings, handpicked iconic hotels, and travel advice tailored to your itinerary. Our goal is to make your vacation stress-free with JustBuyTravel.
