Plan island hopping from Athens: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio ports, the Cyclades vs the Saronic islands, ferry tips, the meltemi winds and transfers to the port.
By Yana, a local in Athens · Updated October 2026
Island hopping from Athens – where to start
One of Athens' great advantages is that it's a gateway to dozens of islands, and island hopping from Athens is a dream for many travellers. Ferries run from the city's ports to the nearby Saronic islands, the famous Cyclades and beyond. The key to a great trip is good planning: choosing islands that fit your time, knowing which port you'll sail from and leaving room for flexibility. This guide brings together what's worth knowing before you board your first ferry.
Three ports: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio
Piraeus is the main and largest port, with most ferries to the Saronic islands and many of the Cyclades. It's huge, with many gates, so check in advance which gate your ferry leaves from. Rafina, on the east coast of Attica not far from the airport, is especially handy for some of the northern Cyclades. Lavrio, in the southeast, is smaller and quieter and serves a handful of nearby islands. Choosing the right port can sometimes save you hours at sea.
The Cyclades or the Saronic islands?
The Saronic islands – such as Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses – are close to Athens with relatively short crossings, perfect for a day trip or a weekend. The Cyclades – including Mykonos, Santorini, Naxos, Paros and Milos – are further away, with the whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches you know from photos, and suit a stay of several nights. With only a day or two, start with the Saronic islands. With a week or more, the Cyclades are waiting.
Tips for planning your route
Don't try to see too many islands in too little time – two or three islands explored properly beat a holiday spent on ferries. Pick islands with direct connections, such as neighbours in the same group. Book tickets ahead in summer, especially at weekends and in August. Note there are fast ferries and conventional ferries: fast ones save time, while conventional ships are often steadier and lovely for sitting out on deck. Schedules change by season, so always check close to your travel date.
Winds, delays and flexibility
In summer, especially July and August, strong northerly winds called the meltemi blow across the Aegean. On those days the sea can be rough, and sailings are sometimes delayed or cancelled. Bring seasickness tablets if you're prone to it, and avoid booking a flight home from Athens on the same day you return from a distant island – leave one night in Athens as a buffer. That way, if plans shift, your holiday doesn't suffer.
Port transfers and how Yana can help
Getting to the port is the part most people forget to plan. With luggage, children and an early ferry, a private transfer from your hotel or the airport is the calmest way to begin. Yana arranges transfers to Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio by private car, van or minibus, plus pick-ups when you return. And if you'd like a taste of the islands without hauling suitcases, the three-island cruise to Aegina, Agistri and Moni is a wonderful way to see several islands in a single day.
Questions & answers
Which port do ferries to the islands leave from?
Most ferries leave from Piraeus. Rafina and Lavrio serve some islands and can be closer to your destination.
Which islands are closest to Athens?
The Saronic islands – Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses – and several work as a day trip.
Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
In summer, yes, especially at weekends and in August. In winter there are fewer sailings, so check the schedule.
Can I book a transfer to the port?
Yes, Yana arranges private transfers to Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio, and pick-ups on your return.
