Best Greek Islands from Athens 2026

Athens is perfectly positioned as a gateway to the Greek islands — within a few hours by ferry, you can be on a sun-drenched Cycladic island, a lush Saronic escape, or the dramatic shores of Crete. This guide ranks the best islands to visit from Athens based on ferry time, ease of access, and what each island offers, with practical transfer information for getting to your departure port.

Best for a Day Trip from Athens

1. Aegina (35–40 min from Piraeus)

The closest Greek island to Athens and the easiest day trip. Aegina is famous for its pistachios, the perfectly preserved Temple of Aphaia, and the charming neoclassical port town. Get to Piraeus with our city center to Piraeus transfer (€65) or from the airport (€95).

2. Hydra (2.5 hrs from Piraeus)

One of Greece's most unique islands — completely car-free, with donkeys as the only transport. Hydra Town is a stunning horseshoe harbor lined with neoclassical mansions. Served by hydrofoil from Piraeus.

3. Poros (2 hrs from Piraeus)

A lush, pine-covered island separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow channel. Relaxed atmosphere, good beaches, and excellent seafood.

Best for a Weekend Escape

4. Mykonos (2.5–3 hrs from Rafina)

Greece's most glamorous island. Best reached via Rafina Port (€82 from the airport, 20–25 min). See our full Athens to Mykonos ferry guide.

5. Paros (3–3.5 hrs from Rafina)

The most balanced island in the Cyclades — beautiful beaches, traditional villages, excellent food. Best reached via Rafina Port. See our full Athens to Paros ferry guide.

6. Kea (1 hr from Lavrio)

Greece's best-kept secret — just 1 hour from Lavrio Port (€82 from the airport), yet largely unknown to international tourists. Excellent hiking, traditional villages, beautiful uncrowded beaches.

7. Andros (2–2.5 hrs from Rafina)

The closest Cycladic island to Rafina — a green, mountainous island with excellent hiking trails and beautiful neoclassical architecture. Quieter and more authentic than Mykonos or Paros.

Best for a Longer Stay (4–7 days)

8. Santorini (4.5–8 hrs from Piraeus)

Greece's most iconic island — the caldera views from Oia and Fira are among the most photographed images in the world. Served from Piraeus by high-speed catamaran (4.5 hrs) or conventional ferry (5–8 hrs).

9. Naxos (4–5 hrs from Rafina)

The largest Cycladic island and arguably the most rewarding for longer stays — excellent beaches, a beautiful medieval kastro, and outstanding local produce. Best reached via Rafina.

10. Crete (8–9 hrs overnight from Piraeus)

Greece's largest island deserves at least a week. Take the overnight ferry from Piraeus with a cabin. See our Athens to Crete ferry guide.

Getting to Your Port

From Athens Airport (ATH)

• Athens Airport → Piraeus – €95 | 45–60 min | For Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Saronic Islands
• Athens Airport → Rafina – €82 | 20–25 min | For Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Andros
• Athens Airport → Lavrio – €82 | 45–60 min | For Kea, Kythnos

From Athens City Center

• City Center → Piraeus – €65 | 20–35 min
• City Center → Rafina – €130 | 40–55 min
• City Center → Lavrio – €130 | 55–75 min

Related Guides & Transfer Routes

• Greek Island Ferries from Athens – Complete port & ferry guide for all islands
• All Athens Port Transfers – Rates & routes for Piraeus, Rafina & Lavrio
• Athens Airport Transfers – All airport arrival and departure routes
• Athens to Mykonos Ferry Guide
• Athens to Paros Ferry Guide
• Athens to Crete Ferry Guide
• Athens to Rhodes Ferry Guide