5 Greek Islands we recommend for extended island hopping

The Greek Islands are a treasure trove of beauty, culture and adventure. With each island offering its own unique charm and attractions, it's no wonder that deciding on just one to visit is a challenge.

To help you make the most of your time on holiday, discover what makes the islands of Greece so unique. Island hopping is a great way to get to know the islands that are close together, and offers a spot of adventure inbetween shores while chartering from one island to the next.

Whether you have 10, 14 days, or more to explore, we've curated the perfect routes to immerse you in the beauty and diversity of the Greek islands.

To complete your blend of breathtaking islands, explore our matching luxury villas in Greece for a well-rounded Grecian getaway.

Our guide to Greek Island hopping

How long do you need for Greek island hopping?

The duration needed for Greek island hopping can vary widely based on your personal travel preferences and interests. For a more comprehensive experience, a 10-day journey can offer deeper exploration of a few Greek islands. In order to cover multiple islands and their unique offerings, a 14-day itinerary is recommended, so that you have time to soak in the scenic landscapes, historical sites, and local life of each island.

What is the best Greek island hopping route?

Again, the best route depends on your preferences. For a mix of nightlife, culture, and beaches, the Cyclades route including Mykonos and Paros is ideal. For a more laid-back experience, the Saronic Islands like Hydra offer tranquillity and charm.

Our Greek Island hopping itineraries

From sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters to ancient ruins and bustling towns, Greece is a country made for multi-destination travel. Each island boasts its own extraordinary experiences, memorable activities and, of course, exclusive places to stay. Which islands are the best to include in a holiday focused on variety? Read on to unpack some of our favourite destinations.

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Greek island itinerary from Athens

Hydra, Saronic Islands

Hydra is a charming island located in the Saronic Gulf, near Athens; it is a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and authentic Greek experience.

Things to do in Hydra

Hydra offers plenty of activities for travellers looking to explore the island's natural beauty, history and culture. Hiking is a popular choice, with the island's mountainous hinterland dotted with monasteries and ancient mule tracks. The scenery is stunning, with peaks rising over 500m before plunging into the sea, creating a spectacular coastline.

Hydra Port, the island's capital, is a lively town with unspoilt streets, waterfront tavernas and bars and grand mansions built by shipping magnates in the nineteenth century. Visitors can explore museums, galleries and independent shops, making it a delightful place to spend some time.

Where to stay in Hydra

We offer some of the finest private luxury villas in Hydra, many of which offer stunning views of the sea and the island's beautiful scenery. Our villas are ideal for families or groups of friends who want to enjoy their holiday immersed in comfort and privacy.Citrus - Just a few steps away from Citrus’s enchanting private garden is access to the pebbly beach and crystal-clear sea. The villa boasts stunning interior design where you can savour a sunset aperitif on the upper terrace or dine al fresco while listening to the waves lapping against the shore. You’ll feel right at home in this stunning villa.

Where to go next: Porto Heli and Spetses

From Hydra, charter a boat to hop to the serene and secluded island of Porto Heli, where Carmen offers brilliant, high-class seclusion for you to rest and recharge before the next step of your journey.When you’re ready to spice up your itinerary, a quick boat charter will take you to Spetses, an electric island fit for yacht watching and bar hopping. Our pristine villa, Ianthe, is the perfect summery escape from the public eye.Browse all of our villas in Hydra

Visiting multiple Greek islands

Serifos, Cyclades Islands

Serifos is a charming Greek island in the Aegean Sea, known for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and traditional architecture. Ideal for peaceful vacations, it's less crowded than other Cycladic Islands but offers plenty of activities, from hiking and watersports to delicious food and nightlife.

Things to do in Serifos

Chora is a beautiful village that winds around a rocky peak above Livadi. Its traditional white-washed houses, historic windmills and stunning churches offer a glimpse into the island's past. A 15-minute drive up the winding road offers stunning panoramas of the Aegean Sea. In the summer, Chora comes alive with its numerous bars, cafes and tavernas, which spill out onto the streets and squares, creating a charming and lively atmosphere.

Where to stay in Serifos

Lenia, a breathtaking villa from our Greek collection, is the perfect place to stay while visiting Serifos. It is located on the south coast of Serifos, with walls and terraces covered in local stone and surrounded by lush greenery, blending perfectly with the island's natural environment. The villa features a combination of traditional and modern design elements, including stunning terraces that offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Lenia's privileged position above the beach makes it an ideal escape for those seeking a secluded retreat on this beautiful Greek Island.Explore all of our villas on Serifos

Where to go next: Paros, Cyclades Islands

Charter a boat to travel from Serifos to Paros, stopping for swimming, exploration and lunch on the deck along the way. Once landed, settle into your top pick of our luxury villas in Paros.

Things to do in Paros

Paros is a versatile island in the Cyclades with something to offer all ages and interests. The island boasts several beautiful beaches, including Kolymbithres Beach, famous for its crystal clear water and fascinating rock formations, and Monastiri Beach, which is just a few kilometres away. Paros is also home to charming traditional villages, cultural and historical sites, gourmet restaurants and a lively nightlife. The island's small size means that its mountainous hinterland, beautiful sandy beaches and idyllic coves accessible by boat can each be explored within a few days.

Where to stay in Paros

Palmyra is a stylish and thoughtfully designed property from our newest collection; it has ample space, is furnished to a high standard and is impeccably finished. Its shaded terraces provide an ideal setting for outdoor living, with peaceful views across Kolymbithres Bay to the charming white town of Naoussa.Aliki is a charming fishing village on the south coast of Paros, one of the most popular Greek islands in the Cyclades. Salvia is our premier luxury villa in this area, with direct sea access you can gracefully move from terrace dining to swimming in the sea.On the northeast coast of Paros, Ampelas is known for its sheltered bay, crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. Delight in the warmth of Phaedra, with its expansive infinity pool and plentiful al fresco dining areas.Find more lovely Paros villas

Where to go next: Mykonos, Cyclades Islands

It’s only a brief boat trip from Paros to the modern port of Mykonos.

Things to do in Mykonos

Mykonos offers visitors a range of experiences, including:

• Exploring the picturesque streets of Mykonos Town

• Relaxing on the island's beautiful beaches

• Discovering the island's history and culture

• Experiencing the vibrant nightlife

• Taking a day trip to Delos

• Enjoying the local cuisine

• Taking a boat tour to explore the coastline and nearby islands

Where to stay in Mykonos

For the perfect place to stay, take a look at our pristine luxury villas in Mykonos:

• Remvy - Situated on the northern end of the island and perfect for large groups
• Liliana - Exudes a serene, care-free living charm with its sea-view terraces, light minimal styling and generous proportions

No matter where you decide to stay, visitors to Mykonos will feel right at home in our expertly curated villas.

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Where to go next: Tinos, Cyclades Islands

When it comes to Greek Island hopping routes, a boat charter from Mykonos to Tinos is a quick trip over sapphire waters.

Things to do in Tinos

Explore the historically Venetian streets and traditional architecture of Tinos before settling down on sandy beaches such as Agios Fokas, Kolympithra and Santa Margarita. For a more active holiday, make your way on foot to the Kionia Bay and see the impressive Poseidon and Amphitrite statues or visit the Ursulines Monastery and its impressive museum, complete with a rich collection of relics from ancient sites.

Where to stay in Tinos

Our luxury villas in Tinos are charming and comfortable. Yolie, for example, is a picturesque accommodation located on Tinos' west coast with a stunning view of the island's beaches and bays. The property offers spacious accommodation complete with terraces showcasing enchanting sea vistas. It is closely situated to town, with a traditional taverna just a 10-minute walk away in the picturesque village of Kardiani. It is an irresistible gem for those seeking aesthetic inspiration and refined beauty.

An Ionian Islands itinerary

Lefkada, Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands aren’t to be forgotten from a tour of the Greek islands. The hinterland of Lefkada is well-worth an exploring – an afternoon spent hiking or biking the rugged terrain, followed by evenings unwinding at Villa Ella is the perfect holiday for the traveller with an active lifestyle.

Where to go next: Meganissi

Come down from the mountains to the shores of Meganissi, which is just 45 minutes away from Lefkada by ferry. Secluded coves and the crystal-clear water of the Ionian sea are the perfect vistas for a tranquil stay by the bay. Galatea is an absolute gem among the lush greenery of this small Greek island.See our entire collectionWhether you're planning on visiting Greece for a romantic getaway, a family vacation or an adventure-filled trip with friends, the Greek Islands have something for everyone and are worthy of a long-stay holiday. Consider this two-week itinerary for your next visit to the Greek Islands, or let us help you plan a bespoke visit. Our expert team is the perfect travel guide to the lesser known gems of Greece. Book an initial call with our helpful guides to get started on planning your trip throughout the Greek Islands.