Greece Island Hopping From Australia: Routes, Costs & Best Islands (2026)

Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, or the hidden gems? The complete Greek island hopping guide for Australians — with ferry tips, costs, and itinerary ideas.

Greece is a rite of passage for Australian travellers, and island hopping is the way to do it. With 227 inhabited islands, the hardest part is choosing which ones to visit. Here's how to plan it properly.

Getting there: Flights from Australia to Athens run $1,200-1,800 AUD return via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore. Budget carriers often have deals via a European hub (London, Rome) if you're flexible. Direct to Santorini or Mykonos from Athens adds $50-100 AUD by domestic flight.

The classic 2-week itinerary: Athens (2 nights) → Mykonos (3 nights) → Naxos (2 nights) → Santorini (3 nights) → Crete (3 nights). This covers party island, authentic island, iconic sunsets, and the largest/most diverse island. Ferry connections are frequent and easy.

Ferry tips: Book ferries on Ferryhopper.com. High-speed ferries cost more but save hours. The Mykonos-Santorini fast ferry is 2.5 hours ($60 AUD) vs 5 hours on the slow ferry ($35). In July-August, book ferries 2-3 weeks ahead. Shoulder season, book 2-3 days ahead.

Hidden gem islands most Aussies miss: Milos (stunning beaches, way fewer tourists than Santorini), Paros (beautiful old town, great nightlife, half Mykonos prices), Hydra (no cars, no chains, just donkeys and beauty), Folegandros (dramatic cliffs, romantic sunsets, boutique hotels).

Costs: Accommodation ranges from $60/night (basic room on a quiet island) to $300+ (caldera-view suite in Oia, Santorini). Mid-range: $100-180/night. Meals at tavernas: $12-20pp. A cocktail in Mykonos: $15. Same cocktail in Naxos: $7. Choose your islands wisely and your budget stretches further.

When to go: June and September are the sweet spots — warm water (24-26°C), sunny days, fewer crowds than July-August. May and October are gambles on weather but offer the lowest prices and quietest islands. July-August is peak everything — crowds, prices, heat, and wind (the Meltemi can be fierce).

We build custom Greek island hopping itineraries with pre-booked ferries, handpicked hotels, restaurant recommendations, and a daily guide. Whether you want party islands or peaceful escapes, we'll tailor it. Free quote — just ask.