Curious as to which Greek Island Ferry Ports have been your favorites? I have read that Symi's is the most beautiful to sail into, with its pastel houses and Venetian appearance. Wondering whether we should try to work a stop in there, arriving late April. It sounds like there is quite a bit to see and do at the ferry ports of Samos (Vathny and Pythagorio), Patmos, Kos (Kos Town), and Crete (museum and nearby Knossos). Is Santorini's ferry port area all lit up spectacularly to sail into at night, or would a daytime arrival have a much more majestic view of the Santorini caldera? Is Athens gorgeous to arrive to by ferry at night, or would a daytime arrival be more awe inspiring? Thanks for your help. All opinions appreciated.
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3397 posts
Why don't you stop throwing darts at a map, and figure out your itinerary.... if you keep wanting more more more information about random places that you've just read a reference about somewhere ... that's what you do at a travel agency when they're trying to get your business & your money. we are not travel agents. If you ask endless questions before focussing, forum folks are going to get weary.. we also have things to do, people to see, etc. The questions you ask (what's more majestic? Inspiring? etc, would require time and effort to convey. Not to rain on your parade, but we really are most helpful when people supply a rough itinerary with some dates attached, perhaps 2 versions, and ask our judgment on which. We really DO want to help, once you get more focussed!
Posted by
California
150 posts
I actually love this question, it's an interesting twist: the most beautiful Greek ports to sail into!
If you're after picturesque entrées via ferry, of course Santorini is high up there. I think Rhodes too, but its been a whole since I was there. Though it's not an island, I'd say Napflio is wonderful too.
I'd imagine Malta would have the same grand and amazing feeling but I've never been... it's on the list!
Posted by
412 posts
Is Athens gorgeous to arrive to by ferry at night, or would a daytime arrival be more awe inspiring?"
Either are beautiful, because you know that you will soon be off the boat and on solid ground!
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3148 posts
I enjoy the hustle and bustle of the ports of Crete (Chania over Heraklion), Milos, Chios, Naxos and Paros. As much as I love Santorini, the port is small, and there's not much going on there since it's at the bottom of the cliff with no proximal access to the best of the island's attractions.
Posted by
11569 posts
Arriving in Santorini by ferry, those passengers getting off in Santorini were ordered to go down below and missed the famous views. We flew out.
Posted by
678 posts
Gracia, the old Baedekers description of that famed Santorini entry view, kept my imagination stoked for years (through a particularly stressful job) before I finally began serious travel.
I would check out Patmos for that kind of approach. And Samos Pythagorio too for sure---its the oldest such man-made harbour in the Mediterranean (see the fotos of both in our Metaxi Mas TR).
Funny thing, even though the views on Folegandros are arguably in that same scenic league, one cannot access them from the approach---you have to go up into the Chora.
I am done. the scenik