10+ Amazing Greek Islands You Can Reach by Ferry from Turkey

Scattered across the Aegean’s blue waters are countless Greek islands some well-known, others still waiting to be discovered. Setting out from Turkey, you can reach many of these islands with short ferry transfers. They don’t just offer a holiday, but also peace, culture, and memories immersed in nature. For those who want to escape the crowds and savor the sea, sun, and warm island life, this list opens the door to new adventures. Let’s explore these wonderful islands together.

For the best and most experienced accommodation tips on the islands, head over to kucukoteller.com.tr.

No Excuses Left for an Overseas Escape Other Than a Schengen Visa!
Yes, it’s that season again passports at the ready, summer plans being made, and “Where should we go this year?” lists growing longer. If you’ve been eyeing the Greek islands with admiration, this guide is for you. No long routes, no dragging suitcases, no airport chaos just a short ferry ride away lie more than 10 stunning islands.

Greek Islands You Can Reach Directly by Ferry from Turkey

Traveling from Turkey to the Greek islands has never been this easy. Thanks to direct ferry routes, within just a few hours you can find yourself among whitewashed houses, turquoise seas, and the warm island breeze. Popular spots like Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Kos, and Rhodes are favorites, thanks to their easy access and short travel times. No long journeys, no multiple transfers just pack your bag, hop on a ferry, and let the island’s serenity take over.

But what’s truly exciting are the paradise-like destinations you can reach with just one ferry transfer from these main islands. Grab your hat, put on your sunscreen, and let’s go!

Islands You Can Reach with a Transfer

• From Lesvos → Limnos: Calm and centered in the Aegean, a favorite for windsurfers. Perfect for those who prefer a peaceful, small-island vibe. (4.5 hours / ~€20)
• From Samos → Mykonos: Do we even need to introduce Mykonos? Yes, you can hop from Samos to Mykonos. Just bring your dancing shoes, a charged phone, and your brightest swimwear. (4.5 hours / €22)
• From Samos → Lipsi: Small, tranquil, with crystal-clear waters. Think of it as a meditation retreat in island form. (2 hours / €25)
• From Samos → Ikaria: Known for its festivals, free spirits, wild landscapes, and rock’n’roll vibe. People here say time runs differently—Sunday brunch might start at 3 PM. (2 hours / €10)
• From Kos → Astypalea: Feels like the Cyclades with windmills and blue-white houses. For those who want something more aesthetic during their Kos trip. Insta-worthy guaranteed. (3.5 hours / €14)
• From Kos → Amorgos: A personal favorite, and it might become yours too. Mountains, monasteries, untouched bays—the filming location of The Big Blue. Rugged but unforgettable. (3 hours / €45)
• From Kos → Tilos: Quiet, minimal, and the kind of place where you’ll start asking, “Should we just move here?” Not for everyone, but deeply loved by those who get it. (2.5 hours / €12)
• From Kos → Nisyros: Small, volcanic, and authentic. Famous for its crater, unique charm, and that “hidden gem” feeling. (1 hour / €18)
• From Rhodes → Chalki: Straight out of a fairytale. Pastel houses, tiny streets, and close enough for a day trip from Rhodes. So beautiful it should almost be mandatory. (1.5 hours / €9)
• From Rhodes → Karpathos: Where traditional Greek village life still thrives. If you want authenticity, this is your spot—homemade jams, woven rugs, and real mountain villages. (3.5 hours / €18)

Bonus Tips: Ferry routes between the Greek islands are updated every year. By summer 2025, new routes are expected, such as Kalymnos → Leros, Samos → Patmos, and Rhodes → Kastellorizo. Prices and schedules can vary, so always check before booking.

Travel tips: Don’t forget your passport, Schengen visa, and light island-friendly clothes. To avoid crowds, early June or just after holiday peaks is ideal. You can check ferry schedules on openseas.gr and ferries.gr.

And of course don’t leave without eating calamari on every island! Trust us, each one tastes different and tells its own story.

Yes, it’s that season again—passports at the ready, summer plans rolling, and “Where to next?” lists getting longer. If you’ve been secretly dreaming about the Greek islands, this is your sign. No long hauls, no dragging luggage, no airport stress just a short ferry transfer away are 10+ incredible islands waiting for you.

For the best handpicked hotel recommendations in Greece, don’t forget to check out our Greek Hotels page