Note that iPhone devices from Mainland China aren’t eSIM compatible. Also iPhone devices from Hong Kong and Macao aren’t compatible (except for iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone SE 2020 and iPhone XS)
Athens is the perfect launchpad for island-hopping adventures. While Santorini and Mykonos often steal the spotlight, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known Greek islands that are just a quick ferry ride away. Whether you’re looking for romantic hideaways, laid-back beaches, historic villages, or digital-nomad-friendly co-living hubs—Greece has an island for every mood.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Greek islands to visit from Athens, how to get there, and how to stay connected with Voye Global’s Greece eSIM for seamless travel planning, navigation, and real-time ferry bookings—without the hassle of physical SIM swaps.
Why Choose Islands Near Athens?
- Short ferry rides (some under an hour!)
- Perfect combo of urban culture and coastal escape
- Great for weekend trips or multi-island itineraries
- Stay connected with a digital SIM (eSIM) for easy ferry lookups, Google Maps, or last-minute bookings
1. Hydra – The Island with No Cars
- Ferry time: ~2 hours from Piraeus
- Why Go: Timeless charm, stone mansions, port cafés, and no motor vehicles—just donkeys and cobblestone lanes.
- Perfect For: Romantic day trips, artists, solo travelers
Don’t Miss:
Sunset from Spilia beach bar and the DESTE Foundation’s art installations
Stay Connected Across the Islands
Roaming ruins the vibe. Explore worry-free with Voye Global’s Greece eSIM.
2. Aegina – Quick, Easy, Pistachio-Filled
- Ferry time: ~40–70 minutes from Piraeus
- Why Go: Ancient temples, sandy beaches, and famous pistachios.
- Perfect For: Budget-conscious travelers, families, Athens layovers
Tip:
Book temple tours or beach taxis using mobile data—no roaming needed with your Voye eSIM.
3. Poros – Relaxation Meets Green Vibes
- Ferry time: ~1 hour from Piraeus
- Why Go: Pine-covered hills, clocktower views, and uncrowded beaches
- Perfect For: Couples, chill weekends
4. Spetses – Historic Elegance
- Ferry time: ~2.5 hours from Piraeus
- Why Go: Grand 19th-century mansions, horse-drawn carriages, and classy nightlife
- Perfect For: Stylish solo travel or romantic getaways
5. Andros – Hikers’ Paradise
- Ferry time: ~2 hours from Rafina port
- Why Go: Hiking trails, waterfalls, mountain villages
- Perfect For: Nature lovers, photographers
Tip:
Use your eSIM to access GPS hiking maps and Andros trail apps even in remote valleys.
6. Tinos – Culture + Calm
- Ferry time: ~4 hours from Piraeus
- Why Go: Religious sites, wind-swept beaches, marble art villages
- Perfect For: Spiritual travelers, foodies, culture seekers
7. Kea (Tzia) – Weekend Getaway Gem
- Ferry time: ~1 hour from Lavrio port
- Why Go: Quiet coves, modern villas, local tavernas
- Perfect For: Athenian locals, low-key luxury seekers
8. Syros – Cycladic Capital, No Crowds
- Ferry time: ~3.5 hours from Piraeus
- Why Go: Neoclassical architecture, opera houses, vibrant town life year-round
- Perfect For: Off-season travelers, architecture fans
Use code VOYE15 now to unlock 15% off your eSIM.
Fast setup, no roaming fees. You’re one QR away from travel-ready data!
9. Kythnos – Hot Springs & Hidden Beaches
- Ferry time: ~1.5 hours from Lavrio
- Why Go: 70+ beaches, thermal springs, traditional villages
- Perfect For: Wellness lovers, solo travelers
10. Mykonos – Iconic & Worth a Day Trip
- Ferry time: ~2.5–4 hours depending on the ferry
- Why Go: Beach clubs, iconic windmills, and a taste of luxury
- Perfect For: First-time visitors, nightlife seekers
Smart Tips for Island-Hopping from Athens
- Choose the right port: Piraeus (most popular), Rafina (closer to the airport), or Lavrio (for Kea/Kythnos)
- Book fast ferries in advance using apps like Ferryhopper (works great with Voye’s Greece eSIM for travel)
- Stay connected: Use your eSIM to check weather changes, ferry delays, or hotel locations on the go
Why Voye Global eSIM Is a Must for Island-Hopping?
- Instant QR activation before or upon arrival in Greece
- 4G/5G connectivity across Athens and the islands
- No roaming fees
- Flexible short-stay and multi-country regional plans
- Works on ferries, ports, and remote beaches—no SIM card swapping needed
Whether you’re hiking Andros, booking a beach ATV in Spetses, or navigating Hydra’s harbor paths, Voye keeps you online when it matters most.
FAQs: Greek Islands from Athens
Q: What’s the closest island to Athens?
Aegina is the nearest—just 40 minutes by ferry from Piraeus.
Q: Can I visit multiple islands in one trip?
Yes! Use high-speed ferries to island-hop. Poros → Hydra → Spetses is a great trio.
Q: Do I need to pre-book ferries?
In peak season (July–September), yes. Use Ferryhopper or direct ferry websites.
Q: Will my eSIM work on all the islands?
Yes—Voye’s eSIM offers nationwide coverage, including port towns, hiking areas, and ferry routes.
Q: Can I use a single eSIM for other countries too?
If you’re heading to Italy or Croatia next, go for Voye’s Europe Regional eSIM—one setup, multiple countries.
Plan Smarter, Move Faster
Book ferries, navigate islands, and call your hotel—even in remote bays.
Seamless Mobile Data Everywhere
Voye Global — Your Trusted eSIM Partner for Secure & Reliable Travel.
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