Category: Travel Izmir

Travel Izmir Turkey

  • 5-day Greek Islands itinerary starting from Izmir

    a complete 5-day Greek Islands itinerary starting from İzmir, designed to combine relaxation, sightseeing, and authentic Aegean experiences. It focuses on islands that are easily reachable by ferry or a short flight.


    5-Day Greek Islands Itinerary from İzmir

    Day 1: İzmir → Chios

    • Morning: Depart from Çeşme Port to Chios (approx. 30–35 min ferry ride).
    • Accommodation: Stay in Chios town or nearby Kampos villages.
    • Activities:
      • Explore Chios Town (Chora) – quaint streets, Venetian castle, and local cafés.
      • Visit Nea Moni Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
      • Stroll along Chios harbor and try traditional mastiha sweets.
    • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside taverna.

    Day 2: Chios → Samos

    • Morning: Take a ferry from Chios to Samos (approx. 2–3 hours, with a stop in Mytilene if needed).
    • Accommodation: Stay in Pythagoreio or Vathi.
    • Activities:
      • Explore Pythagoreio, a historic town with ancient ruins and a marina.
      • Visit the Tunnel of Eupalinos, a marvel of ancient engineering.
      • Relax at Potokaki Beach or Tsamadou Beach.
    • Evening: Dinner at a traditional Greek taverna with sea views.

    Day 3: Samos → Patmos

    • Morning: Take a ferry from Samos → Patmos (approx. 3–4 hours).
    • Accommodation: Stay in Chora, the island’s main town, or near Skala harbor.
    • Activities:
      • Explore Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse (both UNESCO World Heritage).
      • Wander through Chora, a picturesque medieval village with narrow streets and whitewashed houses.
      • Enjoy swimming at Lambi Beach or Grikos Bay.
    • Evening: Sample local cuisine and wines in Chora.

    Day 4: Patmos → Kos

    • Morning: Ferry to Kos (approx. 4–5 hours).
    • Accommodation: Stay in Kos Town or near Psalidi for beach access.
    • Activities:
      • Visit Ancient Agora and the Castle of the Knights.
      • Explore traditional villages like Zia for sunset views.
      • Rent a bike or scooter to explore beaches along the coast.
    • Evening: Dine in Kos Town at a waterfront restaurant.

    Day 5: Kos → İzmir

    • Morning: Optional early beach visit or short hiking trip.
    • Afternoon: Take a ferry back to Kuşadası (1–1.5 hours). Then transfer to İzmir (approx. 1.5 hours by car/bus).
    • Evening: Return to İzmir and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Alsancak or Kordon waterfront.

    Tips for This Itinerary

    1. Ferry Tickets: Book ferries in advance, especially in July–August.
    2. Accommodation: Consider boutique hotels or Airbnb seafront apartments for the best experience.
    3. Transport on Islands: Rent a scooter or car for flexibility; buses are limited on some islands.
    4. Packing: Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets.
    5. Travel Insurance: Recommended, especially for multi-island trips.
    6. Currency: Greek islands use Euro (€), so exchange cash in advance or withdraw at local ATMs.

    Optional Extensions

    • Spend an extra day in Rhodes for its medieval Old Town.
    • Add a day trip to Kalymnos, famous for climbing and diving.
    • Include Lesbos if you prefer a quieter, more authentic Greek experience.

    This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience a mix of culture, beaches, and history while hopping between the most accessible Greek islands from İzmir.