In this article, as a recommendation from a friend, I will tell you what you can do on these islands, how you can get there and how much you can spend, with my own experiences and notes. If you are ready, let's start packing!
Ferry Transportation from Türkiye to the Greek Islands
First of all, I have to say this: the ferry ride is one of the most enjoyable parts of the holiday. Approaching Greece while floating on the sea is quite an exciting experience. Here are the main ferry routes and prices:- Çeşme – Chios Island : Approximately 35-55 Euros
- Kusadasi – Samos Island : 35-60 Euros
- Ayvalık – Lesbos Island : Around 30-40 Euros
- Marmaris/Fethiye – Rhodes Island : 40-50 Euros
1. Chios Island: The Meeting Point of Calm and Taste
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Çeşme, Chios is one of the most relaxing destinations in the Aegean. If you want to experience real “local life” away from the crowds, this is the place for you.
Places to Visit:
- Mastiha (gum resin) villages : Pyrgi and Mesta villages offer Instagram-worthy frames with their geometrically patterned houses.
- Nea Moni Monastery : This monastery, under UNESCO protection, is a popular destination for travelers interested in history.
- Karfas Beach : Ideal for both families and swimming lovers.
Accomodation:
- There are hostels and boutique hotels for between 40-70 Euros per night.
- Local homes on Airbnb offer a more affordable and authentic option.
Food and Drink:
The octopus I ate with mastiha wine at the local taverns is still fresh on my palate. Be sure to try the “To Kechrimpari” tavern!Why Chewing Gum?
- Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Çeşme, Chios offers a true Greek getaway with its easy access.
- Thanks to its structure that is not overly touristic, you can fully experience the local life and authentic atmosphere.
- It offers a unique experience for gastronomy and nature enthusiasts thanks to the mastic gum that grows only on this island in the world.
- It is a haven of peace where you can be alone with the crowds, quiet bays and natural beaches.
- Historical sites such as the Nea Moni Monastery and Mastiha villages offer the opportunity for cultural discovery.
- It is a much more economical choice compared to other Greek islands in terms of accommodation and food and beverage prices.
- With visa convenience at the door in 2025, access for Turkish citizens is extremely practical.
2. Mykonos: The Heart of Entertainment and Aesthetics
White houses, blue windows, fun-filled beaches... Mykonos is perfect for travelers looking for more action and style. We also have some good news! As of June 6, 2025, ferry services will begin from Çeşme and Bodrum to Mykonos! Another great reason to add Mykonos to your list...
Places to See:
- Little Venice : Watching the sunset here is a ritual.
- Paraportiani Church : A favorite of photographers.
- Windmills : The symbol of the island's silhouette.
Beaches:
- Paradise and Super Paradise Beaches : Appealing to party lovers.
- Ornos and Psarou : Quieter and family-friendly.
Accomodation:
- Luxury hotels cost between 250-1000 Euros.
- As a more economical option, I recommend boutique hotels in Mykonos Town (100-200 Euro).
Cost:
This island, which requires you to dress comfortably during the day and elegantly in the evening, is a little more costly than the others.Why Mykonos?
- Mykonos, which has the most famous nightlife in the Aegean, is a true party island with entertainment that lasts until the morning.
- The streets adorned with whitewashed houses, especially the Little Venice district, are a natural studio for Instagram.
- Landmarks such as the Paraportiani Church and the Mykonos Windmills reflect the historical and visual richness of the island.
- You can enjoy the sea and have fun with DJ performances at beaches such as Super Paradise and Psarou.
- It appeals to every taste with its wide range of accommodation from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses.
- For gourmets, seafood restaurants offer an unforgettable taste experience filled with international cuisine and Greek meze.
- It is easier than ever to reach, with direct ferry and flight services increasing in the summer of 2025.
3. Samos Island: Nature, Wine and History
Reachable by ferry from Kuşadası or Seferihisar, Samos is known for its nature walks and wine tasting, and is also a magnet for history buffs as the birthplace of Pythagoras.
Points Not to Miss:
- Pythagorion : Ancient port and streets.
- Kokkari Village : Peace by the sea.
- Lemonakia Beach : Deep blue waters and peaceful atmosphere.
Accomodation:
- It varies between 50-120 Euros per night.
- Especially the hostels around Kokkari are both affordable and have a great view.
Local Flavors:
It was a great pleasure to taste the famous sweet wine of Samos. Fish restaurants and vineyard wine houses were my favorites.4. Lesvos Island: A Culture-Filled Escape
Midilli , which you can reach by a short ferry ride from Ayvalık, is like an open-air museum. It is a place that won my heart with its small villages, historical stone houses and delicious ouzo. If you have your ferry ticket ready, let's explore the island.
Places to Visit:
- Molivos : The pearl of the island with its stone streets, castles and sea views.
- Petra : Famous for its church built on rock.
- Sigri : An interesting stop with its fossil forest museum.
Transport:
Renting a car is a must! Getting between villages can be difficult with public transport.Accomodation:
- Average 40-90 Euros per night.
- Staying in traditional stone houses in Petra and Molivos offers a different experience.
Food and Drink:
Lesbos is famous for its olive oil and ouzo. Recommendation: “The Captain’s Table” restaurant is ideal for a wonderful sunset dinner in Sigri.Why Lesbos?
- Just a 1-hour ferry ride from Ayvalık, Lesbos is one of the closest Greek islands to Türkiye.
- Villages such as Molivos and Petra enchant with both their stone houses and romantic sunset views.
- In Lesbos, the homeland of Ouzo, you can see the production of this traditional drink in person at local factories.
- Wandering through olive groves and traditional villages offers you a journey where time seems to slow down.
- Lesbos cuisine appeals to your palate with seafood, olive oil dishes and homemade desserts.
- With its affordable accommodation options and calm atmosphere, it provides both an economical and relaxing holiday.
- The UNESCO candidate Theophilos Museum and ancient ruins are perfect for those interested in cultural tours.
5. Rhodes: A Holiday in the Footsteps of the Middle Ages
Rhodes is perfect for travelers who want both a historical and seaside holiday. It can be reached by ferry from Marmaris and Fethiye. Rhodes is perfect for those who want to explore and also stretch their legs and relax.
Historical Points:
- Rhodes City : A true journey through time with its stone streets, the street of knights and the castle.
- Lindos Village : A wonderful excursion spot with its snow-white houses and the Acropolis on the hill.
Beaches:
Tsambika and Anthony Quinn Bay are a must see.Accomodation:
- There are mid-range hotels (100-180 Euros) and hostels available.
- Staying in the historical city offers a different experience.
Event Calendar:
Various music and dance festivals are held throughout the summer. You can check the event calendar on TRHaber or Journavel before you go.Why Rhodes?
- Surrounded by medieval walls, Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an exploration steeped in history.
- The ancient acropolis and white houses of Lindos town fascinate both history and landscape lovers.
- Easily accessible by ferry from Fethiye and Marmaris, Rhodes is one of the most easily accessible islands from Türkiye.
- Beaches such as Tsambika and Anthony Quinn Bay crown the swimming pleasure with their crystal clear waters.
- Rhodes offers options to suit every budget, from luxury resort hotels to boutique accommodation.
- It offers an impressive historical texture with its streets and architecture, where you can see Greek and Ottoman traces together.
- A cultural holiday experience can be experienced with local festivals and open-air concerts to be held in the summer of 2025.
Accommodation Suggestions and Budget Plan
If you want to have an affordable Greek island holiday, you can apply this formula:| Accommodation Type | Nightly Price Range (Euro) |
| Hostel/Guesthouse | 30-80 |
| House Rental | 60-120 |
| 3-4 Star Hotel | 100-200 |
| Luxury Hotels/Villas | 250-1000 |
You can make serious savings by booking early. Also, some hotels make reservations without taking a deposit, be careful!
Food and Drink: From Street Food to Chic Taverns
Eating and drinking on the Greek islands is enjoyable and generally affordable. My favorites are:- Souvlaki : Greek style shish kebab.
- Moussaka : The perfect harmony of eggplant, minced meat and bechamel.
- Tzatziki : A refreshing yogurt appetizer.
When is the Best Time?
The best time to visit the Greek Islands is between mid-May and the end of September. July and August can be a bit more crowded and hot. June and September are quite balanced in terms of weather and prices.Extra Tips
- Follow the consulates for visa applications at the door.
- If you are renting a car, take your international driving license with you.
- Ferries may be cancelled during windy periods, so have a backup plan.