Getting Around Greece – Quick Guide

Buses & Trains

Buses are one of the easiest ways to travel within Greece. The KTEL network connects nearly every city and town, including routes to islands like Corfu and Cephalonia (ferry included in the ticket). Buses are reliable, affordable, and cover both short and long distances.

Trains are less extensive but offer a budget-friendly alternative, especially on the modernized Athens-Thessaloníki corridor and the suburban Proastiakos network around Athens.

By Car

Driving in Greece gives you the freedom to explore coastal roads, mountains, and islands at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained and signposted in both Greek and Latin letters.

Be cautious in villages and on mountain roads: they can be narrow and winding. Many rental cars have manual transmission, so reserve an automatic if needed. Non-EU drivers should carry an International Driving Permit.

Ferries

Ferries connect the mainland to most islands. In summer, frequent routes link Athens and many islands, while winter ferries are less frequent and can be affected by rough seas.

Main ports near Athens: Piraeus, Rafina, Lavrio. Travel times by conventional ferries:

• Athens → Paros: 4 hrs
• Athens → Mykonos: 5.5 hrs
• Athens → Santorini: 8 hrs
• Athens → Heraklion: 9 hrs

High-speed ferries save time but cost more.

Domestic Flights

Aegean Airlines and Olympic Airlines connect mainland cities with islands quickly. E-tickets are accepted at check-in. Flights are often faster than ferries, especially to Crete or Rhodes.

Taxis

Taxis are common but can be hard to find in big cities like Athens during rush hours. Smaller cars fit 2–3 passengers. For airport or ferry transfers, consider pre-booking or hiring from hotels.

Boats & Yachts

With over 6,000 islands, sailing is a fantastic way to explore Greece. Popular groups:

• Ionian Islands: Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos
• Crete: south
• Cyclades: Santorini, Mykonos
• Dodecanese: Rhodes, Kos
• Sporades & Northern Aegean: Skiathos, Lesvos, Samos

Charter companies let you rent boats or yachts if you want to explore independently. Many islands also host regular cruise ships.