How to Visit Santorini and Other Cheap Greek Islands on a Budget

Dreaming of wandering through whitewashed villages, lounging on beaches, and savoring fresh Mediterranean cuisine - but worried your wallet can't handle it? Fear not, budget travelers! With a bit of savvy planning, you can experience the magic of the Greek islands for far less than you probably think. Let's dive into how to make your island adventure both unforgettable and affordable.

Your Greek island odyssey will most likely begin in Athens but don't linger too long in the bustling capital. Head straight for the port of Piraeus, the gateway to your island-hopping adventure. The most budget-friendly way to reach Piraeus? Hop on the Metro! Line 1 (the Green Line) will whisk you directly from central Athens to the port in about 30 minutes for just a few euros.

All Aboard - Mastering the Ferry System

With thousands of islands to choose from, where do you start? While Santorini and Mykonos are Instagram-famous, they're also notoriously pricey. No worries though! You can visit Santorini and Mykonos on a budget—we'll show you how below.

We found nice places for under €30 per night. Don't let cost deter you—Santorini especially is stunning and worth the trip.

However, exploring cheaper alternatives is wise. Visiting less touristy, but equally stunning, cheap Greek islands in the Cyclades island group, such as Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Paros, Ios, Schinousa, and Folegandros, can offer a more affordable taste of Greek charm.

Below, we’ll highlight each island and provide sample itineraries for 1 and 2 weeks. But first, let’s explore the ferry system. Booking affordable tickets in advance will let you visit any island you like without overspending.

Booking Smart

The Greek ferry system is your budget-friendly ticket to paradise. Here are some top tips:

• Book in advance: Prices tend to rise as the departure dates approach.
• Compare prices: Use sites like FerryScanner to compare routes and prices.
• Travel off-peak: Avoid July and August for the best deals.
• Opt for slower ferries: They're usually cheaper than high-speed options.
• Pack light: Most tickets include one piece of large luggage, so avoid excess baggage fees.

On Board Adventures - Routes

Ferry rides can be an experience in themselves! Grab a deck seat (free!), feel the sea breeze, and watch the islands go by. Pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle to avoid pricey onboard purchases.

From Piraeus, you can reach the four following island groups, many include very cheap Greek islands to visit:

1. Cyclades

• Location: Southeast Aegean Sea—includes Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, and Naxos.
• Description: Known for white-washed buildings, stunning sunsets, and lively atmospheres, perfect for picturesque escapes and exciting experiences.

2. Saronic

• Location: Near Athens in the Saronic Gulf—includes Hydra, Spetses, and Poros.
• Description: Offers charming towns, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe, ideal for easy day trips and short getaways.

3. Dodecanese

• Location: Southeastern Aegean Sea—includes Rhodes, Kos, and Kalymnos.
• Description: Features medieval history and scenic beauty, providing rich historical sites and picturesque landscapes.

4. North Aegean

• Location: Northern Aegean Sea—includes Lesbos, Chios, and Samos.
• Description: Known for rugged landscapes, historical sites, and traditional Greek charm, ideal for off-the-beaten-path adventures and nature exploration.

Island Life on a Budget - Where to Visit

Since Santorini is a popular destination, we’ll use the Cyclades as an example to recommend exploring the cheap Greek islands via the ferry system.

Our Cyclades adventure was unforgettable, combining the thrill of sailing with the convenience of ferry travel. Some of the stunning cheap Greek islands we visited included Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Paros, Ios, Schinousa, and Folegandros, each offering its own unique charm.

Whether you're considering staying on one island for a day or a week, they all have their own unique charm. Moreover, by using both sailboats (on a yacht charter tour) and ferries, we gained different perspectives on island hopping, making our journey through these cheap Greek islands truly special.

Which Islands to See

Here’s a quick overview of our recommended cheap Greeak islands. You can spend a week or two on one island or hop between them, depending on your preferred pace and how much you want to see. We suggest staying at least two nights on each island to avoid feeling rushed.

• Kea: Closest to Athens, Kea offers secluded beaches like Koundouros and Pisses. Visit the ancient city of Karthaia and the iconic Lion of Kea statue.
• Kythnos: Known for its thermal springs, Kythnos features beautiful beaches like Kolona and Apokrousi. Explore traditional villages and the medieval castle of Oria.
• Serifos: Rugged and picturesque, Serifos boasts stunning beaches like Psili Ammos and Livadakia. Don't miss the Chora with its windmills and the abandoned mines.
• Sifnos: Famous for its pottery and cuisine, Sifnos has lovely beaches such as Platis Gialos and Vathi. Visit the Kastro (castle) and numerous whitewashed churches.
• Paros: A popular destination with excellent beaches like Golden Beach and Kolymbithres. Explore the charming villages of Naoussa and Lefkes and the Byzantine church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani.
• Ios: Known for its nightlife, Ios also offers beautiful beaches like Mylopotas and Manganari. Visit Homer's Tomb and the picturesque Chora.
• Schinousa: A small, tranquil island with pristine beaches like Tsigouri and Livadi. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and local cuisine.
• Folegandros: Dramatic landscapes with stunning beaches like Katergo and Agali. Visit the clifftop Chora and the Church of Panagia.

Building Your Itinerary - One and Two-Week Options

Explore the cheap Greek islands by ferry with options for 1-week and 2-week itineraries. Tailor your trip by selecting islands you want to visit and use affordable ferry tickets to travel between them, making the most of your time and budget.

We recommend ending your trip in Santorini as it has a major international airport, which might be cheaper than taking the ferry back to Athens. Use Skyscanner to find the best flight routes and prices for your departure flight from Santorini. If you use travel search engine sites like Google Flights to search it will not include low-cost budget carriers like Wizz Air.

Sample One Week Itinerary

This one-week itinerary allows you to start in Athens and explore lively Mykonos, then relax on Ios’s beaches before ending in Santorini, known for its stunning views and sunsets. It combines lively activities, beach relaxation, and breathtaking scenery—most importantly, you won't feel rushed!

• Day 1-2: Athens to Mykonos
• Day 3-4: Mykonos to Ios
• Day 5-7: Ios to Santorini

Sample Two-Week Itinerary

This two-week itinerary provides a smooth island-hopping experience, starting from Athens and ending in Santorini. You’ll visit charming, less-visited cheap Greek islands like Kythnos and Serifos, enjoy Milos and Folegandros, and relax in popular spots like Ios and Santorini. It balances exploring new islands with enjoying each destination.

• Day 1-2: Piraeus to Kythnos
• Day 3-4: Kythnos to Serifos
• Day 5-6: Serifos to Sifnos
• Day 7-8: Sifnos to Milos
• Day 9-10: Milos to Folegandros
• Day 11-12: Folegandros to Ios
• Day 13-14: Ios to Santorini

Affordable Places to Stay

Family-run guesthouses and boutique hotels offer charm, affordability, and a genuine taste of local hospitality. When possible, skip the luxury resorts and choose these budget-friendly options for a more personal experience. We’ve personally selected the accommodations below for their comfort, ideal location near the port, and proximity to fantastic restaurants.

🏨 Accommodations

• Athens: Athens Genesis Luxury Suites - near central Athens and steps away from the metro system.
• Mykonos: Olio Hotel - stylish rooms, exquisite dining at "Mezé on Port," stunning sea views, and exceptional service.
• Kythnos: Kontseta Guest House - traditional Cycladic architecture, stunning Aegean sunsets, and easy access to Merichas’s beaches.
• Serifos: Naias Hotel - near Livadi and Karavi Beaches, the hotel is comfortable and clean.
• Sinfnos: Myrto Hotel - exceptionally clean, friendly staff, and excellent location near Kamares beach
• Milos: Filippos - clean, affordable rooms near Adamas Port and beaches, with excellent service and a convenient location.
• Folegandros: Vardia Bay Studios - traditional island-style studios and apartments with stunning sea views, near Vardia Beach and Chora.
• Ios: Almira Inn - offers rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and balconies, and close to Gialos Beach
• Santorini: Afrodete Hotel - budget-friendly rooms in Firostefani with sunrise views, near Fira’s center and the Caldera.

These accommodations are some of the best options for value if you want to be close to the port. Staying near the port is convenient but can be more expensive, so these options strike a good balance between cost and location.

Save Money

To save even more, consider staying further from the port, where prices generally drop. For instance, some of the cheapest places in Santorini are near Perissa on the southeast coast. While you won’t have the iconic Caldera view, the savings are significant.

We split our time between Perissa, Kamari, and Firostefani to lower costs instead of staying only in Firostefani. This strategy saved us close to $1,000, as prices can be 75% lower away from the Caldera.

Eating Well for Less

Greek cuisine is celebrated for its simplicity, but it’s full of flavor. Traditional dishes use fresh ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and vegetables. Classics like Greek salad, tzatziki, and grilled meats showcase straightforward preparations that highlight natural flavors and healthy eating. Best of all, it can be very affordable too!

• Hit the Local Markets: Stock up on fresh produce, bread, and cheese for picnics.
• Seek Out Tavernas: Sometimes going one block away from tourist hotspots means the food is often better and cheaper.
• Try Gyros and Souvlaki: Delicious, filling, and easy on the wallet.
• Ask for House Wine: Often much cheaper than bottled options.

Free and Low-Cost Activities

Visiting Greece on a tight budget is quite manageable once you’ve covered transportation. Many of the best experiences are free or low-cost, making it easy to enjoy the island life without spending a lot. Here’s a glimpse into budget-friendly activities:

• Beach-hopping: Explore hidden coves and stunning shorelines.
• Hiking: Many islands offer beautiful trails with breathtaking views.
• Wandering: Get lost in charming village streets and discover local life.
• Free Museums: Many islands have museums with free or low-cost entry.

Bonus Tips and FAQs

To help you make the most of your budget-friendly Greek island adventure, here are some extra tips and frequently asked questions:

• Consider flying directly to an island instead of Athens to save time and potentially money.
• Check ferry routes carefully to avoid backtracking between islands.
• Look for happy hour deals to save on drinks.
• Ask for takeaway boxes for leftovers to save on future meals.
• Rent scooters or ATVs for affordable exploration on larger islands.

FAQs

Q: How much should I budget for ferries?
A: Ferry prices can range from 7 to 100 euros per trip, depending on the route and speed.

Q: What's a reasonable daily food budget?
A: Plan for about 30-50 euros per day for food and drinks, eating at local establishments.

Q: When is the cheapest time to visit?
A: Outside of May-September is generally more affordable, with significant price drops in accommodation and fewer crowds.

Q: Are there any close, budget-friendly islands near Athens?
A: Yes! Consider Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Kythnos, or Hydra for affordable options close to the capital.

Q: How cheap can accommodation get in the off-season?
A: Prices will drop significantly the farther you get from July and August.

Remember, the key to a budget-friendly Greek island experience is flexibility, advance planning, and embracing local culture. With these tips in mind, you're all set for an amazing Aegean adventure that won't break the bank!

Your Budget-Friendly Paradise Awaits

Island hopping in Greece doesn't have to drain your savings. By leveraging the affordable ferry system, choosing lesser-known islands, and embracing local experiences, you can create an unforgettable Greek island adventure that's kind to your wallet. Grab your essentials, learn a bit of Greek, and get ready to uncover your own piece of island paradise—without stretching your budget!

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