Island Hopping to the Boot: How Far is Greece from Italy?

Sun-soaked beaches, ancient ruins, mouthwatering cuisine – the Mediterranean is a dream for any island hopper. But how far is Greece from Italy, really? As someone who’s crisscrossed this stunning region countless times, I’m here to tell you that combining these two countries in one trip is not only doable but also incredibly rewarding.

Whether you prefer the leisurely pace of a ferry or the speed of a flight, I’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the details and plan your ultimate island-hopping adventure!

How Far is Greece from Italy?

Take a peek at a map, and you’ll see that Greece and Italy are practically neighbours, separated by the glistening Ionian and Adriatic Seas. In fact, the distance between Greece and Italy is considerably shorter than that between other European countries like France and Italy, Spain and Italy, or even Germany and Italy.

Interestingly, some Greek and Italian islands are closer than you might think! This proximity makes island hopping between the two countries an enticing and convenient adventure.

Greece’s Island Gems

• Cyclades: This island group is home to the iconic white-washed buildings of Santorini and the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos.
• Ionian Islands: These lush, green islands, including Corfu and Zakynthos, offer a more laid-back atmosphere.
• Crete: The largest Greek island, Crete, is steeped in history, boasting ancient ruins and stunning beaches.

Italy’s Coastal Beauties

• Sicily: This diverse island is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman civilizations.
• Sardinia: Known for its turquoise waters and rugged terrain, Sardinia is a paradise for nature lovers and beachgoers.

So, how far is Greece from Italy? Geographically, they’re close enough to make combining them in a single trip not just feasible but also a brilliant way to experience the best of both worlds.

Bridging the Mediterranean: Greece Meets Italy by Sea

Now, let’s get down to brass tacks and talk distances. The gap between Greece and Italy varies depending on your starting and ending points.

Some island hops are surprisingly short. For example, the journey from Corfu to Brindisi in Italy is a mere 82 nautical miles. That’s roughly a 10-hour ferry ride, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely cruise. 

On the other hand, if you’re island hopping within Greece, the distance between Mykonos and Santorini is about 64 nautical miles, usually covered in 2-3 hours by ferry.

Planning a more ambitious adventure? The distance between Crete and Sicily, while greater at around 180 nautical miles, is still manageable, with ferries taking roughly 10-12 hours.

Here’s a handy table summarizing the distances between popular island-hopping routes, giving you a better idea of what to expect:

Remember, these are just a few examples, and distances can vary depending on the specific islands and ferry routes you choose.

Island Hopping Distances: Your Guide to Ferry Travel

For budget-conscious travellers or those who simply love a scenic journey, island hopping by ferry is the way to go. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the Mediterranean’s beauty, with the added bonus of being generally more affordable than flying.

Several ferry companies operate routes between Greece and Italy, including well-known names like Minoan Lines, Anek Lines, and Grimaldi Lines. Travel times vary depending on the distance and type of ferry, but you can expect a range of options, from high-speed catamarans to more leisurely overnight ferries.

If you’re looking for a specific route, here are a couple of popular options:

• Corfu to Brindisi: This route is serviced by Grimaldi Lines, with crossings taking approximately 9-10 hours.
• Patras to Bari: Anek Lines operates this route, with travel times ranging from 16-20 hours, often including an overnight option.

Remember, ferry schedules can change depending on the season, so it’s always a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. You can easily find updated schedules and prices online through ferry booking websites or directly with the ferry companies.

Overnight ferries are a great option for longer journeys, allowing you to save on accommodation costs and wake up refreshed at your next destination. Many of these ferries offer a variety of cabin options, from budget-friendly shared cabins to more luxurious private ones.

Flights for the Time-Conscious: Soaring Between Islands

If you’re short on time or simply prefer a faster pace, flying between islands is a great option, especially when covering longer distances. 

• Domestic Flights: Both Greece and Italy have well-established domestic flight networks connecting their major islands to mainland cities. Airlines like Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Volotea offer frequent flights, making it easy to hop from one island paradise to another.
• International Flights: There are also some direct flights between Greece and Italy, such as the Athens-Rome route. However, for many island-hopping itineraries, you might need connecting flights via mainland airports.

When considering flights, it’s important to factor in a few key points:

• Cost: Flights can sometimes be more expensive than ferry travel, especially during peak season.
• Luggage Restrictions: Be mindful of luggage restrictions, as some airlines may have stricter limits than others.
• Connection Times: If you’re flying between different island groups, check connection times carefully, as delays can happen.

Takeaways: How Far is Greece from Italy?

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to the distances between Greece and Italy, along with the best ways to travel between these two captivating countries. Whether you choose the scenic ferry route or opt for the speed of air travel, your island-hopping adventure awaits.

Now, it’s time to start planning your Mediterranean escape! Do you have an upcoming trip to Italy anytime soon? Have you travelled from Greece to Italy in the past? Let me know in the comments.

Make Your Trip Easier

I’m all about planning trips on your own and figuring your way around the local scene. But still, I don’t want to leave you like a fish out of water!

Here are some resources I regularly use whenever I travel (on my own or with other people):

• Find fun things to do with Get Your Guide.
• Need accommodations? Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com!
• Get around like a local by booking a car rental on Discover Cars.
• Don’t sink or swim! Make ferry bookings easier on Ferryscanner.
• Looking to teach ASL or find work as you settle into your new life? This ITTT TEFL course is exactly what you need.
• Plane tickets can be pricey. Find the best deals on Oneflyaway and Faredrop.
• You know what they say, safety is the best policy. Keep yourself protected with travel insurance from Safetywing.
• Need to send or receive money overseas? It’s be unwise not to use Wise.

xo, Alice