How to Travel Around Greece: Flights, Ferries & More

Planning a trip to Greece and wondering about the best way to get around? From the sun-drenched islands to the historic mainland, navigating Greece is part of the adventure. The country’s transportation network is well-developed, though getting to some of the more remote spots can require a bit of planning.

So, what’s the best way to travel to and around Greece? Most travelers fly into the Athens International Airport and then hop on a plane, ferry, or bus to their final destination. Popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete also have international airports, allowing you to fly directly and start your island-hopping adventure right away.

While you can certainly book everything yourself, coordinating ferry schedules, flights, and ground transport can get complicated. For a truly seamless and stress-free vacation, working with a reputable Greece travel agency can make all the difference. A local expert can handle all the logistics, crafting a personalized itinerary that lets you focus on what matters: enjoying your trip.

Flights

Flying is the most common way to reach Greece. The Athens International Airport (ATH) is the country’s main hub, welcoming flights from all over the world. From Athens, you can catch a connecting flight to dozens of islands and mainland cities.

During the peak tourist season (roughly May to September), many islands also receive direct charter flights from other European countries. This can be a convenient option for getting straight to your island destination.

Ferries

Taking a ferry is a classic and popular way to travel between the Greek islands. It’s an experience in itself, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Even with many domestic flights available, many travelers prefer the relaxed pace of a ferry.

The main port of Athens is Piraeus, but many ferries also depart from the nearby ports of Rafina and Lavrion. Most ferries today are modern, comfortable, and offer a smooth ride. You can also find international ferry routes connecting Greece with Italy (to ports like Igoumenitsa and Patra) and Turkey (to several Dodecanese and Eastern Aegean islands).

Cars & Car Rentals

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, renting a car is a flexible way to explore at your own pace. You’ll find car rental agencies in every popular tourist area, from major cities to small islands.

Greece’s main highways are modern and well-maintained, making for easy driving between major points. However, be prepared for regional roads, especially on the islands, which can be narrow and winding. Just take it slow and enjoy the scenery!

Buses (KTEL)

For travel across the Greek mainland, the KTEL bus system is a widely used option. These long-distance buses connect Athens with nearly every town and city in the country.

The bus network is extensive, reliable, and itineraries are frequent. It’s a popular way for locals and visitors alike to travel between regions on the mainland. You can usually buy your ticket right before you travel, but booking ahead is recommended for popular routes in high season.

Trains

The Greek railway network primarily serves the mainland, with the most popular route connecting Athens and Thessaloniki in the north. While trains can sometimes be cheaper than the bus, the system is not as extensive or modern.

Trains in Greece are generally slower than buses, and the infrastructure is older. It’s an option for certain routes, but for most mainland travel, buses remain the more efficient choice.

Athens Metro – Ilektrikos

In Greece, the urban rail transport system includes the Athens Metro and the Ilektrikós, which is the local name for the suburban electric railway known as Line 1 of the Athens Metro. The Athens Metro consists of three lines: Lines 2 and 3 are fully underground, modern rapid transit systems, while Line 1 (Ilektrikós) is a historic surface and underground rail line that has been in operation since 1869. All three lines are electrically powered and integrated, allowing smooth transfers and unified ticketing.

Trains operate frequently and connect key parts of the Athens metropolitan area, including the city center, suburbs, port of Piraeus, and Athens International Airport. The system is run by STASY S.A., a public company, and plays a vital role in reducing traffic congestion and pollution in the capital.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Athens and all major tourist destinations. You can easily find taxi ranks at airports, ferry ports, and central squares. Hailing a cab on the street is also common.

For short distances, a taxi is a convenient option. Fares are generally quite affordable compared to those in other European countries, making it an easy way to get around a city or from your hotel to a nearby beach.

Why Use a Local Greek Travel Agency like Greece Insiders?

Navigating the logistics of a multi-destination trip to Greece can be a challenge. This is where the expertise of a local travel agency becomes invaluable. A Greece-based planner has on-the-ground knowledge and direct relationships with hotels, ferry companies, and tour operators, which is a significant advantage if your plans change or you need immediate assistance.

A specialized agency can create tailor-made vacations that remove all the stress of planning. As a boutique agency based in Athens, they use local knowledge to design trips that are perfectly suited to you.

Here’s how a local agency can help:

• Custom Itineraries: They design fully customizable trips based on your interests, whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family adventure, or a deep dive into ancient history.
• Seamless Logistics: They handle all your transportation—from international flights and island-hopping ferries to private car transfers—so your journey is completely seamless.
• Authentic Experiences: Thanks to local expertise, they can arrange unique experiences you won’t find in a guidebook, from private guided tours of ancient ruins to stays in charming boutique hotels.

Ready to explore Greece without the planning headaches? Start designing your dream trip today.