Ferry to Greece

 

Ferries are a popular mode of transportation in Greece, given the country's numerous islands and coastal areas. There are many ferry companies operating in Greece, with routes connecting the mainland to the islands and also between the different islands. Some of the major ferry companies in Greece include Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and Anek Lines.

The frequency and availability of ferries can vary depending on the season and the specific route. During peak tourist season (June-August), ferries are more frequent and may require advanced booking. However, during the off-season (November-March), some routes may have limited or no ferry service.

It is important to note that ferry schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to check with the ferry company or a travel agency for the most up-to-date information on schedules and fares.

In terms of safety, Greek ferries are generally considered safe and reliable. However, it is still important to follow safety instructions and procedures while onboard.

Overall, ferries are a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the Greek islands and coastal areas. Whether you're looking for a scenic ride or a practical means of transportation, there are plenty of options to choose from.

The ferries in Greece are by the far the best option with lots of ships going between different Greek islands on a consistent basis. This is good for your wallet, but also offers another big benefit. A ferry ride will give you a great tour of the beautiful Aegean Sea. It's also a stress-free way to travel: simply hop on the boat, sun yourself on the deck and before you know it you'll be at your next beautiful destination.

So if you are up for a bit of sea travel why not do a bit of hopping from island to island? Ferries to the islands make this easy and affordable and will allow you to see a wide variety of beautiful sites during your stay in Greece. There are islands for everyone — those wanting to escape, those wanting to explore the remains of old civilizations and those just wanting to enjoy the sand, sea, tavernas and Greek food while reveling in some of the 300 sunny days a year.

Greece is a land of islands, each with its own unique charm and beauty. From the bustling streets of Athens to the tranquil beaches of Crete, Greece has something for everyone. One of the best ways to explore the islands is by ferry, which offers a convenient and affordable way to island hop. In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about taking a ferry in Greece.

Types of Ferries

There are several types of ferries that operate in Greece, ranging from small local boats to large cruise ships. The most common types of ferries are:

1. High-Speed Ferries: These are the fastest and most expensive ferries, with speeds of up to 40 knots. They are ideal for travelers who want to get from one island to another quickly.

2. Conventional Ferries: These are slower and less expensive than high-speed ferries, but they offer a more relaxed and comfortable journey. They are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the scenery and take their time.

3. Catamarans: These are fast and comfortable boats that are ideal for short journeys between islands.

4. Hydrofoils: These are small, fast boats that can travel at speeds of up to 50 knots. They are ideal for short journeys between islands.

Routes and Timetables

Ferries in Greece operate on a regular schedule, with most routes running daily during the summer months. The most popular routes are between the Cyclades islands, which include Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos, and the Dodecanese islands, which include Rhodes and Kos. There are also frequent ferries between the mainland and the islands, as well as between the islands themselves.

It’s important to check the timetables in advance, as schedules can change depending on the season and weather conditions. You can find timetables online or at the local ferry offices.

Booking Tickets

Tickets for ferries in Greece can be purchased online or at the local ferry offices. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer months when ferries can fill up quickly.

When booking your tickets, you’ll need to specify your departure and arrival ports, as well as the date and time of travel. You can choose between different types of tickets, including economy class, business class, and VIP class.

Boarding the Ferry

When boarding the ferry, you’ll need to present your ticket and any necessary identification documents. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding.

Once on board, you can choose between different seating options, including indoor and outdoor seating areas. Some ferries also have cabins for overnight journeys.

Facilities on Board

Ferries in Greece offer a range of facilities and amenities, depending on the type of ferry and ticket you’ve purchased. Common facilities include:

1. Cafes and Restaurants: Most ferries have cafes and restaurants that serve snacks, drinks, and meals.

2. Shops: Some ferries have onboard shops that sell souvenirs, snacks, and other items.

3. Wi-Fi: Many ferries offer free Wi-Fi for passengers.

4. Toilets: All ferries have toilets for passengers to use.

5. Luggage Storage: Most ferries have luggage storage areas where passengers can store their bags during the journey.

Tips for Taking a Ferry in Greece

1. Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. Check the timetables in advance and plan your journey accordingly.

3. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding.

4. Pack a small bag with essentials for the journey, including snacks, water, and sunscreen.

5. Be prepared for delays or cancellations due to weather conditions.

The most visited islands are Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Amorgos, Milos, Serifos, Crete, Rhodes, Symi, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Samos, Lesvos, Ikaria, Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, Corfu, Ithaca, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Kythira.

Compare and book ferries to Greece with go-Ferry.com and get the most available ticket functionality!

Important: Ferry tickets are individual ferry tickets purchased for a specific route and for personal use. If you are going to travel to more than one Greek island then you should buy a ticket for each route. Each destination is a single ticket!

 

Booking your ferry tickets is very easy and can be done online in just 2 minutes!

• The cost depends on the destination and is affected by the period during which the ticket was purchased
• The price also depends on the ferry operator and how fast the vessel is
• High-speed ferries can reach your destination much faster than conventional ones, but the ferry ticket in Greece is about twice as much!

Ferries in Greece - Here are some estimates of how long it takes to get to some of Greece's most popular ferry destinations.

• Ferry from Piraeus to Santorini: 8-9 hours with the slow ferry or 5 with the fast one. Appr. ticket fare: €40/90 respectively.
• Ferry from Rafina to Mykonos: 4,30 hours with the slow ferry or 2,5 with the fast one. Appr. ticket price: €35/70 respectively.
• Ferry from Piraeus to Crete: 7 to 9 hours based on which port of Crete you’re heading to. Appr. ticket cost: €40-70.
• Ferry from Mykonos to Santorini: 2-3 hours with the fast ferry or 4-5 hours with the slow one. Appr. price: €45/100.
• Ferry from Heraklion to Santorini: 2 hours with the fast ferry or 4 hours with the slow one. Appr. fare: €45/100.
• Ferry from Paros to Mykonos: 2 hours with the slow ferry or 1 with the high-speed one. Appr. ticket price: €20/58.

The ferry connections in Greece are numerous as they connect the mainland with the countless islands! The main ports of the mainland are the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. The most popular and with the most connections to the islands of the Cyclades, Dodecanese and Crete is that of Piraeus compared to Rafina which has fewer connections only to the Cyclades and is considerably smaller. Also the ports of Volos and Agios Konstantinos connect the mainland with the Sporades Islands while the port of Kyllini connects the mainland with the Ionian Islands!

The connections between the Greek Islands are numerous and most of them are made throughout the year. The frequency of the routes depends on the season with a particular increase during the peak months but also on the type of ferries, since connections made only by high-speed vessels are not carried out during the winter months for safety reasons!

International ferry connections to Greece

Getting to Greece by ferry is possible from Italy, Turkey and Albania, but there are countless options and plenty of ferries and departures within Greece, between its islands and inland. There are many combinations between different destinations in a country that has over 107 inhabited islands scattered in the Greek seas!
Greece is the country you prefer all year round mainly because of its mild climate, but its popularity soars in the months from May to September because of its unique islands with the beautiful sea and the Mediterranean sun! We would recommend you to book your tickets well in advance to ensure the best prices but also to find availability on your preferred itineraries!

International ferry connections to Greece are from Italy to the mainland and Turkey and Albania only to certain Greek islands. More specifically:

• From Italy to Greece
• From the Italian ports of Ancona, Venice, Brindisi and Bari to the Greek ports of Patras, Corfu and Igoumenitsa
• From Turkey to certain Greek Islands
• From Fethiye to Rhodes
• From Marmaris to Rhodes
• From Bodrum to Kos
• From Cesme to Chios
• From Albania to Corfu
• From Ag. Saranta to Corfu

 

Want to discover the Greek islands? The islands in the Aegean are a beautiful touch that will remain indelible in your memory. The Cyclades, the Dodecanese, Crete, the Sporades and the islands of the North Aegean invite you to experience unforgettable experiences. Place your map and embark on a journey of marvelous beauty, make your own Greece Island Hopping and enjoy it!

For those looking for a cosmopolitan atmosphere and luxurious lifestyle, Santorini and Mykonos are the places to visit in the Cyclades. Both offer picturesque beaches, stunning views, elegant nightlife and VIP treatment. With direct ferry connections, these two destinations are easy to combine into one visit.
Syros and Naxos is the epicenter of the Greek island in the Aegean Sea. Start from Syros and then go to Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini and Anafi. Or start from Naxos and then go to Paros, Santorini, Amorgos, Ios and Folegandros.

Among the many Greek islands, you will discover in the Aegean, a popular destination is the Sporades Islands (Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos), decorated with world-renowned beaches, both secluded and organized.

Between Greece and the coasts of Asia Minor, in the northeast part of the Aegean Sea, five major islands (Ikaria, Samos, Limnos, Lesvos, Chios) and many smaller islands (Agios Efstratios, Thymena, Fourni, Psara etc.) offer you amazing holiday and visit options.

Visit Crete with itineraries starting from Athens, the Cyclades and the Dodecanese islands such as Ios, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, Amorgos, Milos, Kythira, Karpathos, Rhodes and Kos.

With so much information in your hands, it's up to you to create your own Odyssey and enjoy these glittering gems that adorn the Aegean first hand. Enjoy the vacation of your life with the Greek Islands Ferry!

 

A Journey Through History and Beauty

Greece is a country that has been captivating travelers for centuries. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, it is no wonder that Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the idyllic islands of the Aegean Sea, Greece offers something for everyone.

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. The city is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. These ancient ruins are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Greece.

But Athens is not just about history. The city is also a vibrant metropolis with a thriving nightlife, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can stroll through the bustling streets of Plaka, the city’s oldest neighborhood, and enjoy traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki in one of the many tavernas.

Beyond Athens, Greece is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world. The Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea, are particularly popular with tourists. Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets, is perhaps the most famous of these islands. Mykonos, with its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches, is another favorite among visitors.

But Greece has much more to offer than just its islands. The Peloponnese peninsula, located in southern Greece, is home to some of the country’s most important archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visitors can also explore the medieval town of Mystras and the stunning Diros Caves.

No trip to Greece would be complete without sampling some of the country’s delicious cuisine. Greek food is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves). And of course, no Greek meal would be complete without a glass of ouzo, the country’s famous anise-flavored liqueur.

In addition to its history, beauty, and cuisine, Greece is also known for its warm hospitality. Greeks are famously friendly and welcoming to visitors. Whether you are staying in a small village or a bustling city, you are sure to be greeted with a smile and a warm welcome.

In conclusion, Greece is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, it is a country that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins or relaxing on a beautiful beach, Greece is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

This trip is preferred by travelers who drive from central, western and northern Europe and wish to stay in Greece for a longer period. They normally share visits between archaeological sites and the country's incredible beaches.

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Discover the countless options available to you by choosing to start your journey by ferry to Greece! Innumerable combinations and travel destinations in one of the countries with the longest coastline in Europe and with around 107 inhabited islands scattered in the Greek seas! On our page you will find a lot of information about the ferry routes, the prices, the places worth visiting and suggestions for accommodation according to your budget!

Greece is located in the southeastern part of Europe and is bordered by Bulgaria, Albania and Turkey! It is covered by sea with the Aegean Sea to the east, the Ionian Sea to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the south!

The reputation of Greece is primarily due to its unique islands, famous all over the world, such as the islands of the Cyclades, the islands of the Dodecanese, the islands of the Sporades, the Ionian Islands and the beautiful Crete!
In addition, the history of Greece, from antiquity, with its countless landmarks, its climate with the brightest sun and the most beautiful seas in the world, its Mediterranean cuisine that is praised in all corners of the planet is clearly an advantage over other countries! The connection with Greece is also with the neighboring countries of Italy, Turkey and Albania!

It would probably take many pages to talk about Greece to describe a country with a vast history and culture ! Holding the title of the birthplace of democracy that inspires modern democracies around the world, but also its significant contribution to the sciences of geometry , philosophy, history and art make it a destination of interest not only to lovers of the sea and the sun but also to those who love history! The culture of Greece starts from the ancient times, from Mycenaean Greece, and continues through the centuries with influences from various civilizations, such as the Roman and Byzantine Empire, the Persian Empire, the Ottoman Empire and the British Empire, which have clearly influenced modern Greece, giving it a multicultural image!

Plan your trip to Greece, a country with 300 days of sunshine, wonderful climate, modern tourist infrastructure and intense nightlife and enjoy unique experiences! You can visit our website and book your ferry tickets in advance as it is a very popular destination especially during the summer period!

Sightseeing in Greece

During your stay in Greece you should see so many sights that you will definitely need a second visit to the country. Greece with its rich history and culture offers impressive monuments, marble idols, ancient theaters and archaeological sites, museums, churches and monasteries, palaces and castles , beaches of exceptional beauty as well as restaurants, clubs and nightclubs!

Below we will present the most important attractions from all over Greece as well as hotel options for great experiences during your visit to this exceptional country!

Archaeological sites

The Acropolis of Athens: is the most famous and prominent monument of Athens! The ancient Acropolis is located on top of a hill in Athens and contains ancient ruins of immense architectural and historical importance, such as the Temple of Erechtheion, the entrance to the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.The most famous building on top of the Acropolis is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena!

Parthenon (Athens): built on the highest point of the Acropolis, it is the largest Doric temple in Greece and took 15 years to complete.

Ancient Mycenae (Mycenae, Crete): from the most important ancient ruins. They are located on top of a hill between high mountains and were the kingdom of Agamemnon, the legendary king who ruled the Greeks during the Trojan War

Mystras (Laconia): was a Byzantine capital and fortified city and lies on a steep hillside full of olive and orange trees and is considered the most impressive set of medieval ruins in Greece

Palace of Knossos (Crete):is the most famous historical site in Crete, the great capital of Minoan Crete, located 5 km south of Heraklion city. The ruins are impressive and the setting consists of a huge palace, courtyards, private apartments, baths and vivid frescoes

Phaestos (Crete): was the second most important Minoan palace-city after Knossos and with fewer frescoes and offers a panoramic view of the plain of Messara and the highest point of Crete on Mount Psiloritis!

Sanctuary of Apollo (Delphi): is located in the heart of Ancient Delphi, on the hillside and is the place visited by pilgrims to listen to the prophecies of the god Apollo, which were expressed through the oracle chosen by (a woman from the area)

Ancient Delos (Delos) :is a Unesco World Heritage Site ! It is an ancient city in Delos and was a bustling commercial center as well as a sanctuary. Access to Delos is very easy from the island of Mykonos

Kerameikos (Athens) :the site was discovered in 1861 when work began on the construction of Pireos Street. It once stood on the clay-rich banks of the Iridanos River. It took its name from the potters and was used as a cemetery in the 6th century A.D. It has numerous marble columns carved with vivid portraits

Ancient Agora (Athens): the Agora was the heart of ancient Athens, where Socrates expounded his philosophy! On the site of the ancient market is the majestic Temple of Hephaestus, a remarkable museum and the 11th century Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles, decorated with brick designs that mimic Arabic calligraphy

Temple of Olympian Zeus (Athens) :is located in the center of Athens and is a magnificent temple that had 104 Corinthian columns (17 meters high with a base diameter of 1.7 meters), but only 15 remain

Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Athens): was built in 161 AD by the wealthy Roman Herod Atticus in memory of his wife Regilla. For many decades, the theater has been the venue for some of the most important theatrical, musical and dance performances in the summer as it is famous for its unique audibility

Panathenaic Stadium (Athens) :is the only stadium in the world that is made entirely of marble with a long history and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens. In 1896 it became the venue of the first modern Olympic Games

Theatre of Epidaurus (Epidaurus): built towards the end of the 4th century BC, it is one of the most important and best preserved ancient Greek buildings in existence. It can accommodate up to 14,000 people and is famous for its amazing acoustics. Today it is used for performances during the annual Athens and Epidaurus Festival

Temple of Poseidon (Cape Sounion): is located at the end of the peninsula of Sounion, at the southernmost point of Attica and is made entirely of white marble, erected in the middle of the 5th century BC and built in honor of Poseidon, god of the sea. It is a spot with a spectacular view of the Aegean Sea, which is why thousands of Athenians visit it to enjoy the sunset and the full moon

Ancient Thira (Santorini): was first settled by the Dorians in the 9th century BC, and consists of Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine ruins including temples, mosaic houses, a market, a theater and a gymnasium. It is worth a visit both for its archaeological value and for its magnificent views

Ancient Messini (Messinia): is a very large ancient city and is located on a hillside and is still under excavation ! It includes a large theater, a market, a large Sanctuary of Asclepius and one of the most impressive ancient Greek stadiums

Ancient Nemea (Peloponnese): is an imposing Doric-type temple of the 4th century BC. and the site where the Nemean Games were once held in honor of Zeus. Three original columns are now preserved, while the local museum exhibits rich findings from the region

Archaeological Site of Dodoni (Ioannina - Epirus): it is located 22 km south of Ioannina in Epirus! The remains are dated back to prehistoric period

Philippi Archaeological Site (Macedonia): is located near Kavala and has one of the richest histories of all ancient Greek ruins, playing a key role in Macedonian, Roman and early Christian history. In 2016, it took its place among the World Heritage Sites of Greece by UNESCO

Museums

Museum of Cycladic Art: hosts over 3,000 objects of Cycladic, ancient Greek and Cypriot art displayed on four floors in the halls of the Museum, a living cultural space in the heart of Athens

Acropolis Museum: is an impressive museum, very modern and houses more than 3000 famous objects from the Acropolis area from prehistoric times to the end of Antiquity

National Library of Greece (Athens): is a modern space with more than a million books and journals and a wealth of manuscript codices dating from the 9th to the 19th century

National Historical Museum (Syntagma - Athens): was the old parliament from 1875 to 1935 and is particularly important since through works of art and objects it presents the contemporary Greek history, mainly during the war period and the foundation of the modern Greek state

Benaki Museum at 138 Pireos St (Athens): a mansion founded and donated in 1930 by Antonis Benakis, located in the center of Athens. The museum focuses on Greek culture throughout the country's history and houses over 100,000 objects from Greek history and showcases the many eras, cultures and civilizations that influenced the development of Greece. In addition to Greek art from prehistoric to modern times, there is also a large collection of Asian art. The museum hosts frequent exhibitions and maintains a state-of-the-art conservation and restoration workshop

Heraklion Archaeological Museum (Crete): it is one of the most remarkable museums in Greece and Europe. It has a unique collection of masterpieces of Minoan art, which is why it is considered the museum par excellence of Minoan culture

Delphi Archaeological Museum: presents the history of the famous Delphic sanctuary and the most important oracle of the ancient Greek world. It has an important collection of some of the most important works of ancient Greek art, covering the period from the 2nd millennium BC, before the foundation of the Sanctuary, to Late Antiquity

Museum of Marble Crafts (Tinos - Cyclades): is located in the village of Pyrgos, on the island of Tinos and includes an impressive number of authentic objects, such as secular, ecclesiastical, funerary and everyday objects made of marble, a material that has a special place in the architecture and art of Greece and Tinos, from antiquity to the present day

Natural History Museum of Apiranthos (Naxos): is located in the village of Apeiranthos on the island of Naxos and has a very remarkable collection of specimens from the fauna and flora of the region. It includes an aquarium, an excellent collection of shells, dolphin skeletons, bones and a bellows skull as well as an impressively large collection of flora species

Archaeological Museum (Thessaloniki): is one of the largest museums in Greece and the central museum of northern Greece. It has a rich collection of ancient artifacts from the rich ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine history of Thessaloniki with beautiful examples of Roman architecture, unique colorful mosaics, sculptures and jewelry from the Greek classical and Hellenistic periods

Historical Archives Museum of Hydra (Hydra): was founded in 1918 and is housed in an elegant stone mansion and houses historical educational, administrative and religious archives, manuscripts from the Greek Revolution, old books, maps and more. The museum also houses relics from the Balkan and two world wars, traditional costumes, sculptures, nautical instruments and paintings

Museum of El Greco (Heraklion/Fodele - Crete): is located in the village of Fodele, 10 minutes from the city of Heraklion, Crete and is the place where one of the most important painters, the genius of the Spanish Mannerist school, Dominikos Theotokopoulos, was born and lived during his youth

Other sites & activities

Parliament (Athens): the Old Parliament House at Stadiou Street in Athens, housed the Greek Parliament between 1875 and 1935. It now houses the country's National Historical Museum

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: is a major cultural center and one of the world's leading private charities. There is free access for those who want to participate in many cultural, educational , sporting and recreational activities ! It includes the National Opera House, the National Library of Greece, and the Stavros Niarchos Park, one of the largest green spaces in Athens, with an area of 21 hectares

Attica Zoological Park (Spata - Attica): is a private and the only zoo in Greece and is located in the suburb of Spata, about 20 km east of Athens. The zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals representing 220 species, in an area of 20 hectares

Hiking Vikos Gorge: is located in the North Pindos mountain range in Epirus called Zagori and has 44 villages called Zagorochoria

Spinalonga Island (Crete): it is a small barren island with a long history of being one of the last active leper colonies in Europe from 1903 to 1957.It is located in the natural harbor of Elounda in the prefecture of Lassithi in Crete

Akrotiri prehistoric city (Santorini): is one of the most important locations in the Aegean. The site is covered by a bioclimatic roof and above the archaeological remains hang corridors that allow visitors to walk between the two and three-storey buildings. In prehistory it was a Minoan port city that was covered in ash after a volcanic eruption on the island

Valley of the Butterflies (Rhodes): is located on the western side of the island of Rhodes and is one of the most attractive destinations of the island. It is home to millions of butterflies that peacefully hang out in the trees in lakes and small waterfalls

National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades (Alonissos): was the first marine park established in 2003 in Greece and is today the largest marine protected area in Europe
Liston (Corfu town): is one of the most central and famous spots on the island of Corfu, paved with impressive architecture and the characteristic arches that make it one of the most important sights. It is the main entrance to the notorious narrow canyons of the Old Town of Corfu

Dikteon Cave (Lasithi - Crete): is located at 1025 meters above sea level. Visitors can enjoy the unique cave by following a staircase leading down to the interior of the cave, with beautiful, evocative lights

Windmills (Mykonos - Cyclades): they are the emblem of the island of Mykonos and are visible when one approaches the port since they are on a small hill of the island's Chora! There are 16 in total and they were built by the Venetians in the 16th century
Little Venice (Mykonos - Cyclades): is one of the most romantic places in Mykonos with nice old traditional white houses located on the edge of the land on the sea

Lighthouse (Chania - Crete): located at the entrance of the port of Chania, built in 1864 by the Venetians and it has been a listed archeological site in Greece since 1962
Petrified forest of Lesvos (Lesvos): was created 20 million years ago and is one of the most beautiful monuments of Greece's geological heritage. There are fossilized parts of trees , larger and smaller colorful, standing or lying on the earth, to form a unique creation of nature

Palaces & castles

Fortezza Vecchia (Corfu): is a Venetian fortress in Corfu town and covers the cape that originally contained the old town of Corfu

Palamidi Fortress (Nafplio): it was built by the Venetians and is located in the city of Nafplion! The spiral staircase from the town to the fortress has 913 steps but it is worth the effort because the view of the Argolic Gulf and the town of Nafplio is impressive

Bourtzi (Nafplio): is located in the middle of the port of Nafplio and was built by the Venetians to protect the city from pirates and invaders from the sea. From 1930 to 1970 it served as a hotel. Since then, it has been mainly a tourist attraction and occasionally hosts parts of the Summer Music Festival

Castle of the Knights (Kos town): is located in the center of the port of Kos and was built with local stone and ancient ruins from the old town by the Knights of the Order of St. John, in order to protect the town from imminent Ottoman attacks

Mon Repos Estate (Corfu): is a small and beautiful palace built in 1826 with colonial elements and is located on top of a hill in a beautiful green environment

Frangokastello (Chania/Crete): is located in the south of Crete in the prefecture of Chania and is a Venetian castle built in 1374.The buildings within the walls were constructed during the Ottoman occupation

Palace of the Grandmaster of the Knights of Rhodes (Rhodes): also known as Castelo, is a medieval castle in the city of Rhodes, on the island of the same name and is one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece

Sisi Palace, Achilleion Palace (Corfu): is a luxurious villa built in 1892 for the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth von Wiltelsbach (better known as Sissy) with beautiful gardens and special statues such as that of Achilles and today it is a museum

Tatoi Palace (Athens): in the past was the summer residence of the Greek royal family and is located at the foot of Mount Parnitha in 10,000 acres of pine-covered hillside. It was a palace of great opulence but after the removal of the royalty it was abandoned and most of the artifacts were destroyed. Recently efforts have been made to renovate it. It is a pleasant escape for Athenians

Fortezza of Rethymno (Rethymno/Crete): is the Αcropolis of the city of Rethymno in Crete and was built by the Venetians in the 16th century. Several houses have been built inside the Αcropolis

Castle of Astypalaia (Astypalaia/Dodecanese): is a Venetian castle made of black stones in Chora of Astypalea and is located on the top of the hill offering a wonderful view of the sea and the island

Methoni Castle (Peloponnese): is an impressive castle, one of the largest in the Mediterranean, located on a rocky promontory built by the Venetians in the early 13th century

Koroni Castle (Peloponnese): was built by the Venetians towards the end of the 13th century with massive gates, massive walls and square towers. It is located at the highest point of the peninsula and the view to the Messinian Gulf is excellent

Monemvasia Castle (Peloponnese): is located in Monemvasia on the southeastern coast of the Peloponnese and the castle is the oldest inhabited castle in Europe. It is a place of amazing beauty and charm with its cobbled streets and stone houses

Mystras Castle (Peloponnese): is a unique complex built in 1249 and is located on the hillside in the southeast of the Peloponnese. Its churches have Byzantine architecture and magnificent frescoes

Nafpaktos Castle (Peloponnese): is one of the best preserved castles in Greece with its walls extending to the sea and is located on the hill above Nafpaktos where the ancient Acropolis was located. The view to the Patraikos Gulf and the bridge of Antirion is magnificent

Monolithos Castle (Rhodes): was built in 1480 by the Knights of St. John on the foundations of another, older castle and stands at a height of about 236 meters. Few ruins remain but the view of the sea is unreal. The castle is accessed by a staircase carved into the rock

Medieval Castle of Leros (Leros): is located in the northeast of the island and at a height of about 600 meters from the sea with an amazing view

Venetian Castle of Kythira (Kythira): built in 1565 and is located west in Kythira with many houses and 9 churches with excellent architecture of the 16th and 17th century. It is considered the best place of Kythira to admire the sunset overlooking the Ionian Sea

Churches/Cathedrals/Monasteries

Monastery of Hozoviotissa (Amorgos - Cyclades): is the second oldest in Greece and was built in 1017. It is of unique beauty with the monastery hanging on the rock 300 meters above the sea

St Nicholas' Church (Syros - Cyclades): is a magnificent Byzantine church and the patron saint of Ermoupolis, the capital of Syros! It has impressive interiors and the icons were created by the most important hagiographers of the time

Monasteries of Meteora: is a cluster of Byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep cliffs that make up a unique landscape of breathtaking beauty.In 1988 they were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as they house priceless artifacts and frescoes

Monastery of Saint John (Patmos -Dodecanese): is perhaps the most important monastery in the Aegean! It was founded in 1088 and is located on a hill overlooking the sea and the town of Patmos!The frescoes date back to the early 17th century while the monastery's museum houses rare objects and an excellent treasury and library

Church of Megalochari (Tinos - Cyclades): is located in the town of Tinos and is considered miraculous and is the most important pilgrimage site in Greece and famous all over the world! The church dominates as it is located on a hill above the town of Tinos. The special thing is that the pilgrims cover the distance from the harbor to the church on their knees, as a vow to the Virgin Mary on a red carpet from the entrance of the church to the harbor

Church of Ekatontapiliani (Paros - Cyclades): is located a few meters from the port of Parikia, the capital of Paros and is one of the best preserved early Christian monuments in Greece

Mount Athos (Halkidiki - Macedonia): Mount Athos consists of 20 monasteries 1000 years old, cells in caves and about 2,000 monks from all over the world. It is located in the eastern peninsula of Halkidiki and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Church of Seven Martyrs(Sifnos - Cyclades): is a small traditional Cycladic church on top of a rocky islet literally on the waves with a stunning view of the Aegean Sea. It is one of the most photographed spots of Sifnos

Church of Agios Ioannis (Skopelos-Sporades): is located at a height of 100 meters from the sea at the top of a sea cliff with stunning panoramic views

Church of Panagia Kalamiotissa (Anafi-Cyclades): the monastery was built around 1600 is located on top of the imposing rock of Kalamos, the second highest rock in the Mediterranean and the ceremony that takes place is a unique experience as the monks sing and pray all night long.The monastery is one of the main attractions of the island of Anafi and the view is stunning

Church of Panagia Makrini (Samos - Dodecanese): was built in the 9th century and is located in a cave on the western slope of Mount Kerki on the island of Samos. The interior is decorated with well-preserved 14th century frescoes and the view from the courtyard is one of the best on the island

Church of Agios Spyridonas (Santorini-Cyclades): is located in Oia and is built on the rock! It is one of the most photographed churches of Santorini with the blue dome harmonizing perfectly with the blue sky and the white Cycladic houses

Monastery of Panagia Chrysopigi (Sifnos-Cyclades): built in 1650 is located on a rocky island connected to the rest of the island by a small bridge. It is one of the most important churches of Sifnos and for the pilgrimage believers come from all over Greece

The Church of Agia Fotini (Mantineia/Peloponnese): built between 1970 and 1980, it is a unique building that combines classical, Byzantine and romantic architectural styles and has radical decoration and iconography. Many call it the Greek Sagrada Familia because of its different construction methods, while others disapprove of it as not representative of the Orthodox church

The Church of Agia Theodora of Vasta (Arcadia/Peloponnese): is located just outside the village of Vasta in Megalopolis in the Peloponnese and was built between the 10th and 12th centuries. This small chapel is supported by 17 large trees that protrude from its roof and walls. Each tree weighs almost a ton and is over 20 meters high. Many researchers have spent years studying this structure, even x-raying the walls, but have no explanation for the tree roots. A spring comes out from under the chapel and irrigates the trees

The Roofless Church of Panagia Kakaviotissa (Lemnos - Dodecanese): located eight kilometers from the main town of Lemnos island, it is a tiny medieval church, housed under a natural rock shelter and the view of the sea and the landscapes of Lemnos is unique

Church of the Panagia (Folegandros–Cyclades): it is the largest church on the island of Folegandros which stands imposingly on top of the hill above the main town. The church is known for its tall bell tower and during the sunset the view of the island is marvelous

Beaches in Greece

Porto Katsiki Beach (Lefkada): among the top beaches in Greece and the most published image in magazines, with turquoise waters and white sand surrounded by huge cliffs in lush vegetation

Elafonisi Beach (Chania/Crete): one of the most incredible beaches in Crete with clear blue waters, pink sand and a unique landscape

Balos Beach (Chania/Crete): is located approximately 56km northwest of Chania and is surely the most photographed beach in Crete with turquoise waters , shallow waters and natural beauty

Plaka Beach (Naxos): one of the most popular beaches of Naxos and a favorite beach for nudists, with long and wide, white sand and turquoise water

Super Paradise (Mykonos): one of the most famous beaches in the world with nice clear crystal waters, sandy and well organized

Seychelles Beach (Ikaria): one of the most beautiful beaches of Ikaria with pebbles between rocks that create a unique scenery. A small beach next to the main beach has a large cave

Tsigrado Beach(Milos): the beach is located at the bottom of a bay surrounded by very high cliffs and cliffs. Its uniqueness is primarily due to its beautiful turquoise waters but also for the original way you can access it as at the top of the cliff there is a rope connected to a staircase, which leads to the beach and you have to hold the rope tightly and start descending carefully

Paleokastritsa Beach (Corfu): is the most popular beach of Corfu and is located near the Byzantine fortress of Paleokastritsa.The waters are crystal clear but particularly cold
Simos Beach-Elafonissos (Peloponnese): Simos beach is the trademark of the island of Elafonisos of unparalleled beauty with crystal clear sea and natural dunes up to 10 meters high

Mylopotas Beach (Ios): is located in a bay, very close to the town of Ios with golden sand and crystal blue waters and is the most organized and visited beach of the island

Sarakiniko Beach (Milos): is one of the most advertised beaches in Greece because of its lunar white chalk image that makes it very special!

Navagio Beach (Zakynthos): is a cove with a shipwreck on the sand. The beach has crystal blue waters and a truly magical landscape

Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia): is a world famous beach and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with incredible natural beauty surrounded by green hills

Agios Prokopios Beach (Naxos): is located about 4 km from the port of Naxos and has thick sand that ends in sand dunes with crystal clear waters and has received the most distinctions in Greece and abroad

Platys Gialos (Mykonos): is a sandy beach well organized and with many activities such as
starfishing, windsurfing and parasailing in the Aegean and with bars and restaurants with seafood

Golden Beach (Thassos): is a sandy organized beach with very clean waters and therefore it has a blue flag

Glyfada Beach (Corfu): is one of the most beautiful beaches of Corfu with sand and beach bars. It is very easily accessible from the old town of Corfu

Kolymbithres Beach (Paros): one of the most famous in Paros with shallow waters, a special beach called Kolimbithres overlooking the bay of Naoussa. It is not a single beach but many small sandy beaches isolated from each other between huge granite rocks that form pool-like cavity

Panormos Beach (Skopelos):is a large sheltered bay with a pebbly beach and crystal clear waters, with an organized beach

Mikri Vigla (Naxos): is located in the southwestern part of Naxos and consists of two different beaches separated by a series of rocks! Ideal for diving and for those who like windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to the famous north wind

Faliraki Beach (Rhodes): is a long beach with a width of 5 km and the most popular and organized beach of Rhodes. On the beach you will find bars, nightclubs, restaurants and you will be able to do water sports

Potami Beach (Samos): is a long beach of rare beauty with pebbles and crystal clear waters located on the northeast coast of Samos. It is organized with umbrellas and sunbeds and a beach bar

Agali Beach (Folegandros): a sandy beach located about 4 km away from the main town of the island.Ideal for families

Greek Cuisine and gastronomy

It is no coincidence that the word gastronomy is a Greek word! The roots of Greek cuisine go back to antiquity and it is certainly a lure for those visiting Greece as it is famous for its delicious products grown in an ideal Mediterranean climate! The extra virgin Greek olive oil, which is known worldwide, makes most Greek dishes healthy while the combination of herbs, spices, seasonings, makes them unique! Additional healthy dishes are offered with osprey, while the variety of wild herbs, fish and seafood, and unique cheeses from various regions of Greece make up the palette that makes Greek cuisine timeless and special!

In the recent years, young chefs have added other elements to their cuisine, making the dishes have a more international and cosmopolitan taste! However, the philosophy of Greek cuisine remains the same with the combination of fresh seasonal produce, the right mix of ingredients and fresh olive oil to ensure flavorful uplift and high nutritional value!

Some popular dishes of Greek cuisine are the following:

Moussaka: is a traditional Greek speciality made with roasted or fried eggplants (aubergines) and potatoes, a rich, tomatoey sauce of minced beef or lamb and topped with a deliciously creamy bechamel sauce

Fava: is in the form of a pulp or puree, very similar to hummus in texture and made with dried fava beans, onions and lots of extra virgin olive oil. The most famous is the one from the island of Santorini

Greek Salad: is the most popular salad in Greek cuisine, usually prepared with pieces of tomato, cucumber, onion, feta and olives, oregano and fresh olive oil

Τaramosalata: is a snack made from taramas, the salted and salted cod fish mixed with olive oil, lemon juice and a starchy base of bread or potatoes. Sometimes it may contain garlic, spring onions or vinegar

Gigantes: consists of "giant" beans baked in tomato sauce with plenty of fresh herbs and orange

Greek pies: there are many pies that vary according to each region of Greece and are a typical traditional dish in every corner of Greece

Pastichio: consists of a deep layer of large tubular pasta, minced meat and a thick béchamel sauce

Spetsofai: is a rustic spicy Greek dish with thick country sausages and peppers in a rich tomato sauce. There are various versions such as this one from the Pelion region with eggplant, while in most regions, it is made with green or colorful mild peppers, or hot peppers

Souvlaki: probably the most famous food in Greece and means meat on a straw ! It is any kind of meat (pork, beef or chicken) wrapped in a pie, with tzatziki, tomato, potato and sometimes sauce

Gemista: vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, aubergines, pumpkins) are stuffed with rice and tomato sauce, spices and sometimes may also contain minced beef or pork

Loukoumades: are small fluffy sweet balls with honey (the Greek version of doughnuts), which are fried in a deep pan to become golden and crispy. They are served with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon

Dolmadakia: are small dolmades , stuffed vine leaves with rice and lots of herbs. They can also be stuffed with minced meat, rice and herbs

Kleftiko: is a rustic, traditional Greek recipe and in Greek it means "stolen lamb". It is made with slow-cooked lamb, which is first marinated in garlic, olive oil and lemon juice

Tzatziki: is a dip made from salted strained yogurt or diluted yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, salt, olive oil, sometimes vinegar or lemon juice, and herbs such as dill, mint, parsley and thyme

Soutzoukakia: the secret ingredient is cumin. Cumin is a very aromatic spice that flavors the meat and gives it a special taste.Traditionally, soutzoukakia are made with minced beef or a combination of minced beef and minced pork

Hotels in Greece

There are so many beautiful hotels in Greece that several pages would be needed to mention them all. There are impressive luxury hotels in Athens and throughout the Greek islands, hotel complexes with many facilities, beautiful boutique hotels as well as Rbnp apartments and low cost hotels. Below, we will give you an indicative list of some hotels that cover all the above accommodation categories:

Luxury hotels in Greek Islands:

• MarBella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas (Corfu)
• Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa (Chania/Crete)
• Elounda Gulf Villas (Elounda/Crete)
• St.Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas (Crete)
• Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort (Mykonos)
• Boheme Hotel (Mykonos)
• Mykonos Ammos Hotel (Mykonos)
• De.Light Boutique Hotel (Mykonos)
• Cavo Tagoo (Mykonos)
• Naxian Collection (Naxos)
• Summer Senses Luxury Resort (Paros)
• Santorini Secret Suites & Spa (Santorini)
• Canaves Oia Suites (Santorini)
• Cosmopolitan Suites(Santorini)
• Rocabella Hotel (Santorini)
• Andronis Hotel (Santorini)
• Cavo Tagoo (Santorini)
• Lindos Blu (Rhodes)
• White Coast Pool Suites (Milos)
• Aristide Hotel (Syros)
• Porto Zante Villas & Spa (Zakynthos)
• The Petra (Patmos)
• Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel & Spa (Kos)

More affordable choices:

• Golden Beach (Paros)
• Mr.& Mrs.White (Paros)
• Aelia by Eltheon (Santorini)
• Astra Suites (Santorini)
• Labranda Kiotari Miraluna Hotel (Rhodes)
• Lindos Sun (Rhodes)
• Castelli (Zakynthos)
• Allure Wellness Retreat (Lefkada)
• Skiathos Avaton Hotel (Skiathos)
• MarBella Corfu (Corfu)

Luxury hotels in Athens:

• Theoxenia Palace Hotel
• The Margi 
• Grande Bretagne
• St. Lycabettus
• Intercontinental

Luxury hotels in Mainland:

• The Excelsior (Thessaloniki)
• Hyatt Regency (Thessaloniki)
• Makedonia Palace (Thessaloniki)
• Electra Palace (Thessaloniki)

Best resorts in Greece:

• Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso (Athens)
• Corfu Holiday Palace (Corfu)
• Myconian Utopia Relais & Chateaux (Mykonos)
• Myconian Imperial (Mykonos)
• Katikies (Mykonos)
• Creta Maris Resort (Hersonissos /Crete)
• Blue Palace Elounda (Elounda/Crete)
• Epirus Palace Congress & Spa (Ioannina/North Greece)
• Andronis Concept Wellness Resort (Santorini)
• Elea Resort - only for adults (Santorini)
• Costa Grand Resort & Spa (Santorini)
• Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection (Santorini)
• Marpunta Resort (Alonissos/Sporades)

Useful phone numbers during your stay in Greece

In case of need you can use the following useful phone numbers during your stay in Greece:

Ambulance service/Medical emergency: 166
Police: 100
Tourist police: 171 & 1571
General telephone information: 11888
Piraeus port authority: + 30 210455 0100
Rafina port authority: +30 2294321200 - 201
Patras port authority: +30 2613615400
Igoumenitsa port authority: + 30 266 509 9300
Corfu port authority: +30 26610 45551
Ktel Kifisou Public Transport | Athens: +302105246805
Ktel Thessalonikis Public Transport: +30 2310 510835
Fire Service: 199
Coast Guard: 108

Useful tips for your journey to Greece

• Greece is a country with high traffic all year round but more so during the summer period so we recommend you to book your ferry tickets in advance
• Check all available routes and compare prices and offers on our online platform before you book your tickets
• We recommend you to be at the port of departure at least 2 hours earlier especially when you have a car for check-in and embarkation
• Greece has amazing destinations both on its islands and throughout the country. Check out our pages dedicated to each destination