As Greece’s summer high season surges into full swing, a distinct trend is sweeping across the Aegean: American tourists are increasingly trading single-destination holidays for the exhilarating freedom of island-hopping.
In 2025, more international visitors, particularly from the USA, are opting to expand their Greek escapades, seamlessly blending iconic destinations with the authentic charm of lesser-known islands.
Top island-hopping itineraries in Greece for American tourists
Insights from Ferryhopper‘s latest booking data reveal the most sought-after island-hopping itineraries among long-haul travelers from the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada. These curated routes artfully combine well-trodden paths with emerging gems across the sun-drenched Aegean.
Top 10 Island-Hopping Itineraries (According to Ferryhopper Booking Data):
Mykonos – Paros – Santorini
Milos – Paros – Santorini
Naxos – Paros – Santorini
Mykonos – Naxos – Santorini
Ios – Milos – Santorini
Heraklion – Milos – Santorini
Ios – Milos – Paros
Mykonos – Naxos – Paros
Milos – Mykonos – Santorini
Milos – Naxos – Santorini
Surge in demand for more “offbeat” island combinations
Interestingly, while Santorini remains a cornerstone of many itineraries, the booking data hints at a subtle shift: routes predominantly centered around the world-famous caldera are showing a slight downward trend.
Conversely, there’s a noticeable surge in demand for more “offbeat” island combinations, such as Ios – Milos – Mykonos. Furthermore, destinations closer to Athens are gaining significant traction, with the Aegina – Hydra – Poros route, in particular, picking up serious steam this season.
For those embarking on a Cycladic adventure, most travelers kick off their journey with 2-3 days in Mykonos, diving headfirst into its famed glitz, vibrant nightlife, and epic beach parties.
Paros offers a perfect counterpoint, providing balance with its traditional villages, tranquil coves, and laid-back charm, ideal for a relaxing two-night stay. Santorini, of course, remains the undisputed Cycladic showstopper; its dramatic cliffs, luxurious boutique stays, and legendary caldera sunsets are best savored over three unhurried days.
Beyond the popular trio, Milos stands out for its surreal volcanic landscapes and rugged, lunar-like coastline, demanding at least two days for thorough exploration by land and sea.
As the largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos is a vibrant hub of local flavor, from picturesque mountain villages to authentic farm-to-table tavernas, warranting a solid three-day stretch to fully experience its diverse offerings. For a more low-key escape, Ios provides an ideal two-day retreat with its scenic cliff walks, peaceful beaches, and just enough evening entertainment.
Further south, Heraklion, Crete’s bustling capital, is excellent for a 2-to-3-day immersion in ancient history, vibrant markets, and hearty Cretan cuisine before continuing north for further island-hopping exploration.
Whether travelers are seeking breathtaking views, exquisite food, pristine seas, or simply the joy of seamlessly moving from one sun-drenched isle to another, these meticulously crafted itineraries are proving to be the quintessential choices for international visitors in 2025.
