Island hopping in the Aegean Sea works best when you plan by island group (Cyclades, Dodecanese, Saronic, Sporades, and the Northeastern Aegean). Ferry frequency and connections vary widely by season and distance, so treating the Aegean as a set of smaller “mini-networks” makes planning far easier. From experience planning routes across multiple Greek archipelagos, the sweet spot is choosing one cluster and 2–4 islands that actually connect well.
This guide breaks down the main Aegean island groups, shows practical island-hopping routes within each one, and highlights reliable beach picks so you can map a trip that actually works.
If you’re dreaming of visiting the Greek Islands this season, you’re probably already sketching out the stages of your trip.
When it comes to island hopping in Greece, one key thing to remember is that the islands aren’t always as close together as they look on a map. Rather than focusing on how many islands you can squeeze in, it’s far more effective first to understand the Greek island groups and how they’re laid out.
Staying within a single island group usually means more frequent ferries, smoother connections, and lower travel costs. That’s why this article focuses on the Aegean Sea specifically, outlining practical island-hopping routes, simple itinerary ideas, and standout beaches in each cluster.
Let’s start by looking at the island groups that make up the Aegean Sea.
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Which Islands Are In The Aegean Sea
Although we often conflate the Aegean Islands with the more popular Cyclades, it is important to note that the Aegean Islands comprise subgroups.
| Aegean Island Group | Where It Is | Examples Mentioned In This Guide | Best Fit For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cyclades | Central Aegean | Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Tinos, Amorgos | Classic island hopping with lots of routes (seasonal peaks) |
| Dodecanese | Southeastern Aegean, near Turkey | Rhodes, Kos, Patmos, Karpathos, Symi, Kalymnos | Cluster hopping with shorter inter-island distances (varies by route) |
| Saronic Islands | Near Athens | Hydra, Aegina, Poros, Agistri | Short trips and easy add-ons from Athens |
| Sporades | Off Greece’s east coast, northeast of Euboea | Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonnisos, Skyros | Greener islands and beach-focused stays |
| Northeastern Aegean | Northeast/east Aegean (many near Turkey) | Chios, Ikaria, Lesbos, Samos | Slower travel and deeper exploration on fewer islands |
| Crete (And Euboea) | Southern Aegean / near mainland | Crete, Evia | Big-island road trips rather than fast hopping |
Aegean Islands List
Here is a list of the Aegean region islands:
- Crete
- Euboea
- Lesbos
- Rhodes
- Chios
- Samos
- Naxos
- Andros
- Paros
- Tinos
- Milos
- Santorini
- Mykonos
- Ikaria
- Lemnos
- Patmos
- Kos
- Kea
- Amorgos
Note: the Aegean has hundreds of islands and islets; this list is not exhaustive.
Aegean Islands Groups Explained
Northeastern Aegean Islands
They are located in the northeastern Aegean Sea (many near the Turkish coast), and these are some of the main islands:
- Samos
- Ikaria
- Chios
- Lesbos
- Thassos
- Samothrace
Dodecanese Islands
Also known as the Southern Sporades, the Dodecanese literally means “twelve islands”; today it generally refers to 15 major islands and many smaller islets, for a total of around 26 inhabited islands.
This island group lies in the southeastern Aegean Sea, near the Turkish coast. The most important (and popular) islands in this group are the following:
Saronic Islands
This archipelago consists mainly of small islands, popular for being reasonably close to the coast and within easy reach of Athens, from where regular ferries depart daily. These are some of the most remarkable Saronic Islands:
Cyclades Islands
These are among the most popular Greek islands, and they’re often what people mean when they say “the Aegean islands,” even though the Aegean includes several other island groups.
The Cyclades are located southeast of mainland Greece and are one of the island groups that form the Aegean archipelago.
One important point to note is that the name “Cyclades” refers to the islands surrounding the sacred island of Delos.
So, whenever you talk about Santorini or Mykonos (to name just a few), remember it’s more accurate to call them the Cyclades to avoid any confusion. These are some of the most important Cycladic Islands, but remember, there are many more!
This will help to understand that there are more islands in Greece and that not all of them belong to this group.
- Amorgos
- Andros
- Anafi
- Antiparos
- Folegandros
- Ios
- Kea
- Kimolos
- Kythnos
- Milos
- Mykonos
- Naxos
- Paros
- Santorini
- Serifos
- Sifnos
- Syros (capital of the South Aegean unit)
- Tinos
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Sporades Islands
Another important group of islands, home to beautiful beaches and landscapes, is the Sporades, also known as the Northern Sporades.
These 24 islands are generally less visited than the Cyclades. In fact, their name, which means “scattered,” indicates precisely that they are outside the central group of the Cyclades.
The Sporades can be the ultimate Aegean Greek islands – an island-hopping alternative if you’re looking for one, offering untouched shores and quite affordable accommodation, so keep in mind that choosing the Sporades can be a smart alternative for tranquil holidays in Greece.
This is precisely why we have devoted an entire article to routes and island-hopping ideas for the Sporades. In any case, these are the most important Sporades Islands:
- Alonnisos
- Skiathos
- Skopelos
- Skyros
Bigger Aegean Islands
Often considered independent and distinct from the other groups, these are the two largest islands in Greece and belong to the Aegean Islands group. They are Crete and Euboea (also known as Evia).
Aegean Island-Hopping Routes And Beach Picks By Group
Northeastern Aegean Routes And Itinerary Ideas
Typically less popular than the Cyclades and the islands in the Dodecanese, this group of islands is not so easy to reach, but with a bit of planning, you can go a long way. Many routes are served by overnight ferries from ports in the Athens area, but schedules vary by island, season, and operator.
These islands are far apart and relatively large. They offer plenty to see and do, so we highly recommend these islands for those who want to visit just one or two destinations.
These are not really the destinations you would have in mind for island hopping; for that reason, we include the best of each of them for you to discover one Northeastern Aegean Island at a time. Here we have the three most popular islands: Chios, Ikaria, and Lesbos.
Learn more by checking these guides:
Chios
One of the loveliest destinations in this island group is Chios, an island big enough for you to need at least a whole week to discover.
The island offers unique hiking trails, several towns and villages worth visiting, and excellent cuisine, including a product grown only on Chios: mastic.
Mastic is an aromatic resin harvested from mastic trees cultivated in southern Chios.
This resin is used in the cosmetic industry and the local cuisine. One thing you can do in Chios is explore the small villages where this product has been made for generations. The best way to discover such a big island is with your own car, so renting a car is probably the best way to explore better.
Chios Best Beach For Families
Karfas Beach is among the most popular beaches on the island. It’s known for its sand and shallow water, making it a strong option for families. It is about 5 km south of Chios Town, in a relatively tourist-heavy area.
Ikaria
Rugged and wild, Ikaria has long been known as the island where traditions have largely remained unchanged.
With a strong culinary culture and a passion for singing, dancing, and entertainment, locals have made their lifestyle popular among those seeking a highly relaxing place where time seems to stop and rushing around is never in fashion.
Ikaria’s Most Famous Beach
Although beaches are not the main attraction in Ikaria, some are indeed gems and shouldn’t be missed. Probably the most famous of them is Seychelles Beach, a white-pebble beach with clear turquoise water and cliffs on both sides.
Lesbos
Another major island is Lesbos. Greece’s third-largest island after Crete and Euboea, it’s well known for ouzo and local seafood.
It offers unique villages to explore, a rich history, and beautiful beaches, some of which are ideal for families with children because they are shallow, clean, and wide.
Lesbos Beach Pick Near Plomari
There are dozens of beaches to consider when visiting Lesbos; the Plomari area is a popular base for swimming and seaside tavernas. The beach is about 40 km from the island’s capital and features a picturesque port, olive groves, and dozens of pine forests, crystal, and relatively shallow waters.
Dodecanese Island-Hopping Routes And Itinerary Ideas
Island hopping and family-friendly itineraries become easier when you move to the Dodecanese cluster of islands. Distances are pretty short, and ferry routes are more frequent; therefore, it is relatively easy to see more islands during your trip.
It is easy to reach other islands, starting from Rhodes, probably the most popular spot in the Dodecanese, including Kos or Kalymnos.
There is also more info about these islands in the Aegean Sea in the following articles:
The Best Routes And Island Hopping Itineraries In The Dodecanese
- Rhodes – Karpathos – Kastellorizo
- Rhodes – Halki – Symi
- Karpathos – Kasos
- Patmos – Lipsi – Leros
- Kos – Kalymnos
Best Beaches In The Dodecanese Islands
Agios Pavlos Bay (St. Paul’s Bay) is a popular beach in Lindos on Rhodes. Also, on this island, another beach not to miss is Anthony Queen’s Beach. Its original name was Vagies, but the beach became famous after scenes from The Guns of Navarone were filmed there.
Moving on to other islands in the cluster, Karpathos is home to some fantastic shores as well, some of them with incredibly pristine and clean waters that are safe for families, too. One of the best beaches to check on Karpathos is Kyra Panagia.
Patmos’ best beach is Psili Ammos, while Kos is home to several fantastic beaches, including the most famous, Kefalos Beach.
Saronic Islands Routes And Day-Trip Itinerary Ideas
Island hopping around the Saronic Islands is, together with hopping the Cyclades, one of the most popular areas for you to include as many islands as you can, even when time is limited. Since the Saronic Islands are pretty small and easy to explore, it is even possible to see up to three of them in just a day! That, of course, does not mean that there is nothing to do in the area, but quite the opposite!
Learn more by checking these guides:
The Best Routes And Island Hopping Itineraries In The Saronic Gulf
Best Beaches In The Saronic Islands For Easy Day Trips
There areseveralw beachesworth visitings in the Saronic Gulf; in general, the islands with the best beaches are Poros and Agistri. However, Aegina also has one of the best beaches in the archipelago: Marathona Beach on the island’s western side, a fantastic, family-friendly beach.
When in Poros, do not miss the picturesque Love Bay, while in Agistri, pay a visit to Halikiada Beach, an unorganized, heavenly coast perfect for completely disconnecting from the rest of the world.
Cyclades Routes And Island-Hopping Itinerary Ideas
The most developed area in Greece, when it comes to touristic routes, itineraries, island hopping, accommodation, organized beaches, and entertainment, visiting several of the Cyclades during just one trip is easy and sometimes even affordable.
There are many routes to consider, and if traveling in summer, a good ferry search engine is all you need to purchase tickets and plan your itinerary.
To make better use of your time, we recommend limiting the number of islands to no more than three per week and no more than four in two weeks.
Although visiting more islands in less time can be tempting, you also need to consider the time you will spend on the ferry, which often ends up reducing the effective time you spend enjoying all that each of these islands has to offer.
When planning a trip to the Cyclades, check these guides:
The Best Routes And Island Hopping Itineraries In The Cyclades
Best Beaches In The Cyclades Islands
The Cyclades have some incredible beaches to visit; even Santorini, the island that you would probably never choose for beach life, has some impressive volcanic beaches to see, such as Perissa, Santorini’s black sand (and pebble) beach.
However, when thinking of Greek beaches, you also think of heavenly fine-sand shores with azure waters; then check Naxos and its long Plaka, or Paros, with the unique landscape of Kolymbithres. Mykonos is also home to some stunning beaches, such as the gay-friendly (but also family-friendly) Elia Beach.
If you prefer to move to less popular islands, consider discovering Mylopotas Beach in Ios, the picturesque Vathi Beach in Sifnos, or Psili Ammos in Serifos.
Sporades Routes And Island-Hopping Itinerary Ideas
We have written an article on the routes around the Sporades, as the islands are unique in their beauty and relatively unexplored. These two characteristics make island hopping in the Sporades an unusual holiday idea.
The best routes and island hopping itineraries in the Sporades:
- Skiathos – Skopelos
- Skiathos – Skopelos – Alonnisos
- Alonissos – The island is large enough that many travelers prefer it as a single base rather than a quick add-on.
Best Beaches In The Sporades Islands
The Sporades have some stunning beaches, with blue waters, white sand, and lush green forests as the predominant landscape and colors.
The most famous of these islands is Skiathos, home to large sandy beaches, especially on the island’s southern coast. The most exotic beach in Skiathos is Lalaria, which can only be reached by boat.
Moving on to other islands in this group, when in Skopelos, do check Stafilos Beach and Agios Dimitrios Beach in Alonnisos.
Crete Route Ideas And How To Combine It With Other Islands
The largest island in Greece is a destination in its own right. And although it is sometimes combined in other Greek Islands itineraries as a port of call during the island hopping holiday, you could easily spend several weeks in Crete and still not see everything. Therefore, if Crete is the island you pick to visit, it would be a better idea to check two or three of its four regions at a time and forget about the rest of the Greek Islands.
And if you really want to add another island to this itinerary, it might be a better idea to make a day trip to Santorini than to split your time between Crete and two or three other islands.
When planning a visit to Crete, check the following articles:
Best Beaches In Crete
The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, and it would be challenging to choose only a few of them.
However, three of the most popular beaches on the Island of Crete are Elafonisi, known for its pink sand, and the shallow turquoise waters that form the Lagoon. With an exotic, almost Caribbean vibe, Balos is another top beach on Crete, ideal for combining a hiking experience with relaxing moments by the sea. This article has more tips on visiting the best beaches in Crete.
Finally, in the southern Heraklion region, Matala Beach is a well-known spot in Crete, known for its hippie history and stunning caves to explore.
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Evia Route Ideas And How To Get Around
Less tourist-heavy than Crete, Evia is a large Greek Island in the Aegean Sea, not far from the mainland. Evia, like Crete, is a tranquil destination that requires several days to explore and appreciate.
A key advantage of choosing Evia as a vacation destination is its proximity to Athens. So it can be reached by car via the bridges at Chalkida, without using a ferry.
Seasonal ferry connections to ports on Evia and to Andros serve the southern part of Evia. Still, schedules vary and don’t always line up well for Cyclades-style hopping.
Best Beaches In Evia
Right in the central part of the island, Chiliadou Beach is about an hour from Halkida, the capital of Evia. It is well-known for its crystal-clear waters, offering a sandy area that’s perfect for kids and a rocky area as well.
Featuring extraordinary deep blue waters and golden sand, Agia Anna Beach is another famous beach on the island. A third good option on Evia is Mourteri Beach; for many travelers, it is the best beach on the island, with clear blue waters and stunning shoreline. scenery
So, tell us, which of these Greek Aegean Islands will you sail to first?
FAQs Aegean Sea Islands
What are the Aegean Islands?
The Aegean Islands are the islands in the Aegean Sea (part of the Mediterranean), mostly belonging to Greece. Travelers typically group them into clusters such as the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Saronic Islands, Sporades, the Northeastern Aegean islands, and Crete (with Euboea often listed separately).
Are the Cyclades the same as the Aegean Islands?
No. The Cyclades are oanAegean island group. Many people use “Aegean islands” to mean the Cyclades, but the Aegean includes several other island clusters too.
What are the main island groups in the Aegean Sea?
Common traveler groupings are the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Saronic Islands, Sporades (Northern Sporades), Northeastern Aegean islands, and Crete (with Euboea often treated as its own category).
How many islands are in the Aegean Sea?
There are hundreds of islands and islets in the Aegean Sea. Most travel guides focus on the main inhabited islands and the best-connected island groups.
What is the Dodecanese and why does it mean “twelve islands”?
Dodecanese literally means “twelve islands,” but modern usage generally refers to 15 major islands plus many smaller islets, for a total of around 26 inhabited islands.
Which islands are in the North Aegean region of Greece?
Greece’s North Aegean administrative region includes islands such as Lesbos, Chios, Lemnos, Samos, and Ikaria.
Which islands are considered part of the eastern Aegean?
“Eastern Aegean” is often used geographically to refer to islands near the Turkish coast, including Chios and Samos, as well as eastern island chains such as the Dodecanese (e.g., Rhodes, Kos, and Karpathos).
Can you island hop in the Northeastern Aegean?
Yes, but distances are longer, nd ferries can be less frequent than in the Cyclades or Dodecanese. Many travelers choose one base island (such as Chios, Lesbos, or Samos) and explore it thoroughly rather than making rapid hops.
Are ferry schedules the same year-round in the Aegean?
No. Ferry frequency is strongly seasonal across the Aegean. It can also change year to year by operator and route, so identical itineraries can work well in summer and be impractical in shoulder or winter months.
What is the Aegean Sea?
The Aegean Sea is an arm of the Mediterranean Sea between Greece and Turkey. It connects northward to the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea via the Dardanelles and Bosphorus straits.
How big and deep is the Aegean Sea?
The Aegean Sea covers roughly 215,000 km2 and its maximum depth is about 2,639 meters.
What is the Aegean dispute?
The Aegean dispute refers to long-running tensions between Greece and Turkey over maritime zones, territorial waters, and airspace in the Aegean Sea.
Has migration affected some Aegean islands?
Some islands close to Turkey have been directly affected at different periods by refugee and migrant arrivals, with conditions and pressure levels changing over time.
Are the Aegean Islands fertile?
Fertility varies by island. Larger islands typically have broader valleys and more agricultural land, while smaller and drier islands can have limited arable areas.
