Spring is a wonderful time to visit Greece. Whether you are in a city, village, or island, spring makes its first appearance in March and reaches full bloom in April through to May. As hints of winter melt away, the colours of spring add to the beauty of Greece’s landscapes and these Greek destinations are just the perfect holiday spots to enjoy springtime in Greece.
Samaria Gorge
Where: Crete, White Mountains National Park.
Why: Because it’s one of the longest and especially in spring, naturally beautiful gorges in the world & the longest in Europe. The 6-8 hour hike is not for everyone and requires some preparation but you’ll reap many rewards as you pass through lush landscapes. Also because it’s too cold in winter and too hot in summer, during spring, hiking along the gorge is easier.
Don’t Miss: Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife as around 450 species are thought to inhabit the area.
Andros
Where: In the Cycladic Island group, 1-2 hours from Athens’ Rafina port.
Why: Because, unlike its neighbours, globally popular hiking destination Andros (named Ydroussa in antiquity because of how much water springs around the island) has lush nature that is especially glorious in spring.
Don’t Miss: The waterfalls of Pithara, the old stone bridges of Aladinou and Stichiomeni, Achla river and beach, the hike from Chora to Apoikia, from Arni to Vourkoti, the villages of Sineti and Aidonia.
Zagori
Where: Zagori is in the eastern and central area of the Pindus mountains of Epirus.
Why: Because the area, made up of 48 architecturally harmonious villages from the 1700s and fabulous natural landscapes like the Vikos Gorge, Europe’s deepest, is immersed in lush natural beauty.
Don’t Miss: Go rafting in Voidomatis river or horseback riding in Megalo Papingo village, dine on hand-picked mushrooms in Vitsa and meditate on old arched stone bridges above tranquil waters.
Image by @stef_greece
Tzoumerka
Where: In the mountainous region between Ioannina and Arta.
Why: To reawaken your winter-dulled senses with incredible mountain views, fresh air and lush greenery.
Don’t Miss: Connect with local culture in the 47 picturesque and vibrant Tzoumerkohoria (villages), cross the Arachthos gorge (there’s a bridge!) hike along the Syrrako – Kalarrytes river path and see the Anemontrypa Cave, walk the Kouiassa Pouliana path and visit the the National Park of Tzoumerka where brown bears, wild goats, otters and deer live.
Lake Kerkini
Where: In Central Macedonia, Northern Greece.
Why: Because this man-made lake is home to over 300 bird species, numerous other animals including free-roaming water buffalo, and 1300 plant species.
Where: Eastward of Peloponnese and southwest of Piraeus.
Why: Because you might just see 120 types of orchids in this lush, volcanic seaside haven.
Don’t Miss: The hot springs in the southeast seacoast of the peninsula, the ruins of the Acropolis of ancient Methana which dates to the 4th C B.C. and Steno, where you’ll see ruins of ancient walls built by the Athenians during the Peloponnesian War, and the pine-clad islet of Saint Theodoroi, which is connected to Methana town by a road.
Andros’ Dew Retreat at Mèlisses, allows guests to take a break from everyday life to enjoy some peace and tranquility, blossoming flowers and delicious local food in the beautiful surroundings of the Aegean Sea.
Unwind, relax, create and engage your artistic senses on the Greek island of Andros this Spring with nourishing meals, local wines, morning swims, and lots of gorgeous flowers – that will leave you feeling energised and full of inspiration.
Andros is considered to be one of the greenest islands in Greece because of its abundant natural springs and small rivers, which weave their way through the verdant landscape. Spontaneous herbs and wildflowers grow abundantly in the surroundings, especially during Springtime when all flowers are in bloom and the whole of Andros is perfumed by wild thyme and lemon blossoms- making it the perfect spot for Andros’ Dew Retreat, which focuses on floral design and styling, as well as cooking.
Guided by flower guru Taylor Patterson, guests will learn all the basics of flower arranging and design, creating beautiful compositions for mixed arrangements. The small group will go foraging together, hunting for beautiful blossoms and foliage to be used in the arrangements, whilst trained chef Letitia Clark and founded and art director of Mèlisses, Allegra Pomilio will prepare a floral-inspired menu, incorporating fresh herbs and flowers into the creative dishes.
New York-based photographer Nicole Franzen will also be joining, documenting the whole experience and adding her special touch and sharp eye for beautiful detail.
Every day guests have a new chance to explore Andros’ most beautiful and unspoilt spots, gather around the table for beautiful flower-arranging classes and share bountiful meals together.
What’s included
-6 days & 5 nights accommodation at Mèlisses;
-All meals during the workshop (5 dinners, 4 lunches, 5 breakfasts; aperitivos/snacks, drinks & refreshments);
-Cooking classes hosted by Allegra & Letitia, showing you how to incorporate spontaneous herbs and flowers into your menus;
-Flower arranging & styling classes hosted by Taylor Patterson.
-Getting to know and documenting locals and the island;
-Meals in a local taverna;
-All activities and excursions, including visits to the villages of Andros;
-Mèlisses full use of all its facilities;
-All transfers on the island to and from the house.
Accommodation
Mèlisses aims to honor and embrace the local flora and fauna. The house is located on the exclusive and majestic bay of Paleopoli where, underwater, you can still see ruins of the old city. The bay is opposite the extraordinary island of Ghiaros, which is considered legendary and protected for its marine wildlife.
The property is completely isolated, allowing for a peaceful getaway, with private access to the sea and a thriving vegetable garden. The property was designed and built by a talented team of designers and architects using local plants and rough stones to seamlessly blend built and wild environments. Mèlisses is surrounded by crystal waters and beautiful countryside, where wild figs and grapes grow uninhibited and it’s not uncommon to spot a donkey grazing on wild grass.
Inside Mèlisses, elegant interior design is crafted with a mixture of Hellenic antique furniture and a hint of Italian extravagance. Our outdoor seating area is designed to seduce all guests with its breathtaking sea view. Enjoy a swim in the crystal waters of the sea or in one of our natural seawater pools while relaxing under the pergola shade.
The first Mandarin Oriental resort will open its doors in Greece at Navarino Bay, an integrated resort area at Costa Navarino, in the region of Messinia, southwest Peloponnese, amidst a breathtaking 140-hectare natural landscape, overlooking the historic Bay of Navarino.
Greece’s first Mandarin Oriental to open at Navarino Bay
Set to open in 2023, the beachfront luxury resort will feature 99 guest rooms, including 48 spacious earth-sheltered pool villas, all with outdoor terraces and stunning sea views, along with five restaurants and bars. Crafted by renowned Greek architects, Tombazis & Associates Architects and K-Studio, the unique design is aligned with Costa Navarino’s sustainable principles, featuring planted roofs blending into the natural topography of the land and the use of local materials.
Additionally, this ultra-premium resort is set to feature a 1,500 m2 spa and fitness centre with a stunning 25 m indoor-outdoor pool and sweeping sea views, complemented by state-of-the-art heat experiences and Mandarin Oriental’s signature wellness therapies in specially designed indoor treatment rooms and outdoor pavilions.
The project is owned and developed by TEMES, a leading developer and operator of high-end tourism and real estate destinations in Greece.
“We are delighted to be opening our first property in Greece in Costa Navarino and look forward to sharing this striking combination of unspoiled landscape, olive groves, pristine beaches, and authentic Greek culture in the region with our guests,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. “We are pleased to partner with TEMES, the group that has been responsible for the creation of Costa Navarino as a bourgeoning tourism destination.”
Located in the heart of Messinia
“Mandarin Oriental is renowned for delivering exemplary service and exclusive experiences in some of the most noted properties around the world,” said Achilles V. Constantakopoulos, Chairman of TEMES. “We are proud to have the Group bring their hospitality expertise for the first time to Greece, signifying the further growth of Costa Navarino, which is becoming a top international destination to visit and to live”.
Guests of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino will also benefit from the destination’s other resort areas, and experience a vast range of outdoor activities, from biking and hiking to rock-climbing, tennis, and water sports, as well as three more signature golf courses. Additionally, a variety of dining venues and leisure activities are available across Navarino Dunes and Navarino Waterfront.
Moreover, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino will be adjacent to Navarino Agora, an open marketplace with retail, artisanal street food, open-air cinema, and authentic local experiences by day and night.
As of Monday, February 7, 2022, travellers to Greece with a European vaccination certificate can enter the country without showing a negative COVID-19 test, as the country prepares to open early for the summer season- marking March 1 as the day that the industry begins to officially welcome international visitors.
On Friday, Greece’s Health Minister Thanos Plevris announced, “Starting Monday, February 7, those entering the country with a European certificate will do so without a mandatory test.”
Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias supported Greece’s decision on easing travel restrictions for European Union citizens, as the country plans on opening the tourism sector earlier than ever.
“Our country is taking all the vital steps this year to welcome our visitors for the summer season, earlier than ever before, as of March 1,” Minister Kikilias said.
“Greece sends a strong message of security to its visitors with a valid European Covid Certificate. The decision follows a number of measures that facilitate potential travellers to plan their visit to Greece,” added Kikilias.
Greece welcomed more than 7.2 million tourists during the January to November period of 2021, however, the government is hoping these numbers increase to pre-pandemic times, with record levels of 2019, when travellers to the country spent more than 18 billion euros, according to receipts.
For non-European citizens, it should be noted that so far, 33 non-EU countries (and territories) have joined the EU Digital COVID Certificate system, based on EU equivalence decisions.
The COVID certificates issued in those 33 countries (and territories) are accepted in the EU under the same conditions as the EU Digital COVID Certificate. These countries are: Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Cabo Verde, El Salvador, Faroe Islands, Georgia, Israel, Iceland, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Togo, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man), Uruguay and The Vatican.
Set on the Peloponnesian peninsula, right on Koutoura beach, Dexamenes is an architecturally award-winning hotel that has been transformed from a former 1920s industrial winery into a standout seaside retreat.
Boasting stunning surroundings filled with sunflowers, watermelon fields, olive groves, vineyards, and citrus trees, this tranquil spot is the ideal place to unwind, in between visits to nearby archaeological sites, wineries, and historical sites.
Dexamenes is about an hour from Patras city, right next to the town of Amaliada, allowing easy access to the Unesco World Heritage-listed Ancient Olympia – the birthplace of the Olympic Games, as well as the nearby forested mountains of Elis.
Athens’ leading architectural firm, K-Studio, has received a range of accolades for this project that was carried out with the utmost respect for the authentic property’s industrial heritage; and has just been shortlisted for the 2022 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – Mies van der Rohe Award.
Materials used throughout the space include terrazzo, concrete, birch-faced ply, and black steel; and although it is modern and minimalist in design, it is nonetheless warm and inviting. Most popular with locals, guests are able to make the most of the sandy beach, which is only footsteps away, before coming back and enjoying a private dinner, art installations, live music performances, and of course wine-tasting.
What makes this place even more unique is the experience of sleeping inside old wine tanks, which have been minimally retouched with steel, engineered glass, timber, and a clean-lined aesthetic. Many of the rooms offer uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea, while others have views of two huge, weathered tanks and a feature pool. Each has a canopied outdoor area for plenty of R & R, and bathrooms are luxuriously appointed, with showers and textured glass walls. There is also a private villa in a neo-classical style overlooking the Aegean Sea; it features two suites, a room with bunk beds as well as a kitchen- perfect for those with children, or if you are looking at a longer stay.
Dexamenes also boasts a laid-back courtyard, unique yoga space for stretching or meditation, bar-lounge with over 100 wines to choose from, a taverna offering Greek cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, a history room with details of the authentic surroundings, and a boutique “Bakaliko” store selling local produce to take home after your stay. Local artists also regularly curate exhibitions and installations in the gallery, where you will find handmade ceramics and jewellery pieces, all designed and crafted by local artisans and available in the small gift shop.
Greece’s popular ski resort at Agriolefkes on the beautiful Pelion mountain, which offers a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea against the backdrop of the snow-covered aspens has opened up for 2022- welcoming skiers (both professional and amateur) to make the most of the heavy snowfall that’s hit the area over the last few days.
Mount Pelion reaches an altitude of 1500 metres and boasts wonderful views of the Aegean Sea on one side and the Pagasitikos gulf on the other, making it a favourite winter getaway for Greeks from all over the country.
The centre has seven slopes (with different levels of difficulty) and five lifts. All of the centre’s ski slopes will be open to the public.
One of Greece’s most popular ski centres
Apart from the slopes, there is also a ski school here for beginners, and other ski options including a descent down an uneven slope, snowboarding or mountain artillery ski, which takes place on the eastern road and ends up on the beach of Agios Ioannis.
And apart from skiing, you can enjoy the cobblestoned squares and local taverns nearby that serve comforting winter dishes. The area also offers an array of other activities such as horseback riding, hiking, adventure trekking, cycling and more.
The ski lifts will be in full operation from 9 am until 4 pm, and the organisers announced all those visiting the premises of the ski resort should wear protective masks both in open and closed areas.
Agriolefkes is 2kms away from the village of Chania and there is a daily bus service from Volos.
The new W Escape Costa Navarino resort featuring 246 stylish rooms, suites and villas, as well as private pools, restaurants, a sunset bar and a beach club is set to open on the Navarino Waterfront in Messinia, this summer 2022.
Marriott International, Inc. on Thursday announced it has signed an agreement with TEMES S.A., a leading developer and operator in high-end tourism and real estate, to debut the W Hotels Worldwide brand in Greece with the opening of W Costa Navarino. Expected to open in summer 2022, W Costa Navarino is anticipated to mark the latest addition to the expanding W Escapes portfolio in Europe following locations in Spain, Switzerland and Portugal.
The new W Escape in Greece will be located on the Navarino Waterfront, the newest integrated resort of Costa Navarino. The 13-hectare beachfront destination is designed by renowned Greek architects, Tombazis and Associates Architects. W Costa Navarino’s design is inspired by the region’s traditional residential areas and is set to use local, natural materials such as stone, wood and reed. The distinctive interiors will be led by London-based MKV Design.
The Escape is expected to feature 246 stylish rooms, suites, and villas, many with private pools staged in the Bay of Navarino with stunning Ionian Sea views.
‘‘We are thrilled to build on our fantastic relationship with TEMES S.A. to open W Costa Navarino, strengthening MarriottInternational’s presence in this Mediterranean paradise,” said Candice D’Cruz, Vice President Luxury Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “Joining our portfolio of coveted W Escapes around the world, W Costa Navarino will add a distinct take on modern luxury to Navarino Waterfront. We look forward to welcoming free-spirited travelers to this new luxury playground.”
The new resort will also feature five dining venues including a destination beach club overlooking a long sandy shore, designed by Athens-based K-Studio. The ‘Culinary Square’ is the hotel’s playful take on a deli food market- with individual outlets offering guests all-day dining options. Other planned amenities include a sunset bar and the signature W Living Room. Guests will also be able to enjoy experiences and dining at neighbouring venues in Costa Navarino; including the new Navarino Agora, an open marketplace with retail, street food, open-air cinema and exciting events throughout the day and night.
Tennis courts and a water sports hub are part of the vision for guests to enjoy at W Costa Navarino, along with access to the destination’s four signature golf courses and an array of outdoor programming including biking, hiking, rock-climbing and sailing.
Greece’s Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias announced the Greek government’s approval of new tourism projects and investments budgeted at 320 million euros, to be funded by the European Union’s Greece 2.0 Recovery and Resilience Plan.
With a focus on winter and mountain tourism, wellness and health, gastronomy and agritourism- the Tourism Ministry plans on showing the world there is more to Greece than summer, sun and Santorini!
The Greek government included travel sector projects in the Recovery and Resilience Plan (worth 3.35 billion euros in total) following their approval by Alternate Finance Minister Theodoros Skylakakis.
According to Minister Kikilias, the new funding will “mark the beginning of a new cycle of development in the tourism sector, with benefits for everyone. The pandemic has shown that we live in a beautiful country that we must protect for ourselves, our children, and future generations. This is for Greeks and for people worldwide who dream of experiencing Greece’s magic every year.”
The government aims to promote Greece as an all-year-round destination with the government utilising 320 million euros worth of resources from the Greece 2.0 Fund, as well as additional private funding in a bid to “change the model and to achieve the maximum possible result.”
So far, the government has approved projects including upgrades to tourist ports, development of winter and mountain tourism, development of wellness and health tourism, training programs for tourism employees, agri-food and gastronomy tourism, diving and underwater tourism as well as making beaches more accessible to those with disabilities.
Given there are over 6000 beautiful Greek islands, of which roughly 227 are inhabited, deciding which one to visit is always a hard decision to make.
If you’re planning a Greek summer holiday for 2022, the editors at IN+SIGHTS GREECE rounded up their favourite Greek islands (based on recent visits) and recommend adding them to your Greek island getaway list for this year!
P.S. This list is in no particular order- they are all just as spectacular as each other!
Folegandros
The charmingly mysterious Folegandros, situated in the corner of the southern part of the Cyclades, entices with its deep blue waters that are in complete harmony with its steep mountains, picturesque Chora, and jaw-dropping sunsets. This Greek island exudes natural beauty and it’s a dreamy destination where you can completely relax and unwind in style.
Donousa
Part of the Small Cyclades, Donousa is perfect to explore by boat so you can get up close to the magnificent caves like “Spilia Tichou” with its beautiful stalactite formations- or discover “Fokospilia” a habitat of seals. Also, head over to the southeast of the island where you’ll find a mountainous village with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. And for the most beautiful beaches on the island, make your way to Livadi and Fikio.
Spetses
Located a little over two hours away from Athens, the luscious island of Spetses is a perfect weekend escape from the Greek capital. This idyllic, car-free island of the Argosaronic Gulf is a favourite spot for affluent Athenians and international jet-setters.
Skyros
Located in the Sporades islands, Skyros is only three and a half hours away from Athens; a destination untouched by tourism, it retains its tradition and authenticity. Whether you are an adventure seeker or looking to relax, Skyros offers a unique experience that entices you to unveil all its mysteries.
Serifos
The dreamy landscape of this almost untouched Cycladic island is composed of rugged hills, historic mining sites, breathtaking coves, picturesque settlements, classic Greek island architecture, and endless beaches. The wild beauty of Serifos will fill your soul, relax your mind, and steal your heart.
Naxos
Whitewashed houses, delicious food, unbeatable beaches. This is Naxos island in one sentence- one of our favourite Greek islands that never ceases to amaze. Beautiful beaches, ancient sites and museums; plus great food, atmospheric mountainous villages, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere for those who want to stay out all night. Naxos has something for every type of traveller and fulfills even the most demanding one!
Syros
Home to the beautiful town of Ermoupolis, Syros features stunning neoclassical architecture, old mansions, marble-paved streets, charming town squares, imposing churches, and historical monuments. Syros is not only rich in both history and culture, but it also boasts beautiful beaches including Galissas, Delphini, Kini, Finikas and De La Gratsia.
Hydra
A small island in the Saronic Gulf (just 2 hours away from Athens), Hydra island has a charming atmosphere and romantic allure. It’s aristocratic, yet authentic and features a rocky landscape with elegant, imposing stone mansions, narrow cobblestone alleys with colourful bougainvillea; plus impeccable sunsets.
Milos
Volcanic rocks, vast blue magic waters, stunning sunsets, jaw-dropping beaches, geological formations and picturesque settlements by the sea, all together narrate exquisite stories about this Cycladic island that blows your mind away every time you step foot here. Fast becoming one of Greece’s most popular destinations, there is still an authentic and untouched beauty about Milos island.
Paxos
Boasting spectacular azure waters and charming architecture, Paxos is one of Greece’s most beautiful islands. Located on the Ionian, it boasts some of the most stunning and exotic beaches in the world; as well as a wonderful natural landscape with lush vegetation. Combining a cosmopolitan feel with natural beauty, Paxoi is a Greek island that has been described as a “paradise on earth”.
Kefalonia
The largest of the Ionian Isles, Kefalonia remains pure and protected from mass tourism. What makes this place so special is the pride locals take in keeping their island clean, fresh, modern, yet warm and inviting, all while encouraging its natural charm and authentic beauty to shine through. From the main town of Argostoli where you’ll find a range of eateries, bars, and boutiques through to gorgeous fishing villages and quaint towns, there’s so much to see and do on this lush island.
Ikaria
Wild landscapes, diverse beaches, thermal springs, lively summer festivals in beautiful village squares, rugged mountains, and tavernas serving foods made from organic produce and local goods like goat’s cheese, honey, and meat are all part of the Ikaria experience.
Astypalea
The simplicity of this authentic island, which shares aesthetic elements of the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, is what makes this destination extra special! Astypalea’s magnificent Chora, the old port, picturesque windmills, an imposing Venetian castle built of dark stones, and stunning beaches with crystal clear waters are the main reasons to fall in love with this beautiful Greek island.
Crete
Greece’s largest island is always a good idea! Renowned for its breathtaking beaches, rustic natural beauty, delightful cuisine and its remarkable hospitality, there is so much to see and do here. The main places to visit are Chania,Heraklion,Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos; it doesn’t really matter where you go, as it’s a magnificent island filled with rich culture, history and traditions.
Andros
An ideal Greek island year-round as it’s located just two hours from Athens, Andros is filled with lush vegetation, abundant water, and stunning beaches. The beautiful Cycladic isle owes its lush greenery to its rich underground and surface water resources. Here you can experience the island’s rich culture and culinary flair. Also make sure you visit one of the many historic monasteries and churches, the amazing museums and enjoy the endless nature and its hiking trails.
Tinos
The third-largest Cycladic island, Tinos is gifted with impeccable beauty. Crystal-clear waters, rare sorts of stone, architectural masterpieces, several charming villages with alleyways and bougainvillea, dovecotes, and the perfect environment to stimulate any artistic inclination- the island of Aeolus has it all!
Patmos
The Aegean island of the Apocalypse is known as the place where Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation. Patmos is a nostalgic destination, offering wild beauty, a striking coastline, medieval Chora, a maze of alleyways filled with cascading bougainvillea, and beautiful doors. Patmos is an unspoiled island that you should explore at your own pace.
Karpathos
Also located in the Dodecanese, Karpathos is an island of untouched beauty that’s loved for its authentic customs and centuries-old traditions. Visit the ancient acropolis, caves, churches and see locals in their traditional dress. Offering beautiful views from authentic mountainside villages- here you’ll get to understand what Greek island life is truly about.
Rhodes
The largest island of the Dodecanese, Rhodes is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes, which has been declared a World Heritage Site. Make sure you visit Lindos, which has one of the best microclimates in the Mediterranean is a must, as well as the beaches of Anthony Quinn and Kallithea.
Lefkada
This Ionian isle boasts remarkable natural landscapes, world-famous beaches, verdant mountains, delightful local cuisine, a noteworthy winemaking tradition, and an exciting range of things to see and do. Otherwise known as Lefkas, it’s the perfect spot for a summer holiday.
Symi
An absolute gem in the heart of the Dodecanese, Symi is a small but mesmerising Greek island, which lies in the north of Rhodes. Surrounded by deep green seas and covered in cypress trees, this beautiful destination is home to one of the prettiest ports in Greece, neo-classical mansions, and dreamy fishing villages. Many visitors arrive here on their private yacht and spend days (or weeks) enjoying the magical views surrounding them.
Kythira
This undiscovered island close to Athens is filled with history, captivating scenery, imposing castles, secret caves, medieval villages and beautiful beaches. Located off the south coast of the Peloponnese, Kythira also features delightful villages and lovely local delicacies that you’re sure to enjoy.
Island hopping in Greece doesn’t need to be expensive, especially if you follow our insider tips on how you can save money while making your way around some of the most beautiful islands in the world!
Don’t go during the peak of summer
August is the peak month of Greece’s summer season, as this is when most of the locals are on holiday, making hotels, car rentals, flights, and ferries pricier. Of course, you want the warm weather to make the most of the Aegean Sea but June, as well as September, are better months where you can enjoy the great climate with better deals.
Choose one area
The number one mistake people make when island hopping is trying to do too much, as well as going from one side of Greece to the other, which is a costly exercise. To save some dollars and travelling time, it’s best you stick to the same island group. For example, you can choose to hop between Rhodes, Symi, Kastelorizo, and Samos, which are all in the Dodecanese, or you might prefer Naxos, Folegandros, and Syros in the Cyclades. You will be pleasantly surprised to know that even though they are all nearby, each island is very unique and beautiful in its own way.
Steer clear of Mykonos and Santorini
Santorini and Mykonos are by far Greece’s most famous islands and there is no denying their beauty but there are so many more places in Greece that are just as stunning and worth seeing once in a lifetime. And if you are just dying to see Santorini and Mykonos, make sure you don’t book in June, July, or August. Santorini has the longest tourism season in Greece and is a spot that can be enjoyed just as much in April, May, or September and October.
Take a ferry instead of flying
Apartment living
If you are an international visitor, chances are you will arrive in Athens before starting your island hopping and the cheapest way to get to your next destination is by ferry. To save some more dollars take an overnight or a slow ferry, as the speed boats which get
there quicker are of course pricier. Sometimes airlines do have good sales, so always check but you will most likely find ferries are a cheaper option.
Stay in an apartment not a hotel
One of the priciest parts of travelling is accommodation and the great thing about Greece is you don’t need to stay at a 5-star hotel or resort to have an amazing time. The true beauty of the Greek islands will not be found inside a hotel room but outside where you can experience first- hand the magical sea, sun, local cuisine, and culture. All you need is a clean room, bathroom, and a good location.
Other tips while you are there
-Eat at small local taverns rather than fine dining restaurants.
-Try local house wine, which is great and not pricey.
Budget friendly meals
-Avoid beaches that charge for sunbeds.
-Go for smaller islands where you can walk around or catch a bus, rather than needing to hire a car or scooter. And if you do want to venture out maybe pick 1 or 2 days to hire transport.
-Avoid touristy spots that always charge higher rates. You will always find the more authentic places in hidden spots away from crowds.
