Oxi Day is a Greek holiday celebrated on October 28th. This year it falls on a Monday, providing a perfect long weekend to escape and recharge your batteries on one of the many Greek islands! It’s the ideal time to organize a little trip and take a break from your daily routine.
Although the summer season might be over, this is a great opportunity to plan another vacation! Keep reading this article to discover 6 of our favorite islands for the October 28 long weekend. Choose the destination that suits you best and then book your ferry tickets easily and quickly with Ferryscanner in just a few clicks.
What are we celebrating on October 28?
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October 28 is an important national holiday in Greece, known as the day of ‘No’. On this day in 1940, the Greek government, led by Ioannis Metaxas, rejected Italy‘s demands to allow its troops to enter Greece. This decision to say ‘No’ and stand up against fascism led the country into World War II and started the Greco-Italian War. Since then, every year the 28th of October has been celebrated to honor the bravery of the Greek people in defending their freedom despite the difficult circumstances of the war.
Andros
Andros is a large island that invites you to discover its wild natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Wander through the narrow streets of Chora with its mansions and museums, relax on its beautiful beaches such as Zorkos, or if you prefer hiking, the island’s famous trails will bring you in touch with the unique landscape of Andros.
How to get to Andros
Your journey starts from the port of Rafina, where the companies Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries, and Seajets operate daily routes to Andros. You have the option of choosing a morning itinerary, so you can arrive on the island before noon and start your exploration immediately. The journey takes about 2 hours, with tickets starting at €25 for passengers, and around €50 for car transport.
For the return trip, you can choose between afternoon services if you want to get back home early or evening services to make the most of the full day in Andros. These ferry companies offer flexible timetables, so you can organize your trip as it suits you.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
How to get to the port of Rafina
The port of Rafina is about 30 km from the center of Athens and is accessible either by bus, which departs regularly from the station ‘Marathonas’, or by private transport, such as car or taxi. If you want to know more information about access to the port, check here.
Book Ferry Tickets from Rafina to Andros
Spetses
Spetses is a destination full of history and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Explore the main town’s cobbled streets, admire the mansions, and enjoy rides by bike or carriage, as cars are not allowed on this island. Enjoy the peace and relaxation on the beaches or wander around the Old Town with its picturesque alleys and pretty shops.
How to get to Spetses
Your journey to Spetses starts from the port of Piraeus, with the ferry companies Alpha Lines and Hellenic Seaways operating daily routes with both high-speed and conventional ferries.
Ticket prices start from €50 for passengers. As cars are not allowed on the island, you don’t have to worry about additional costs for vehicle transportation.
Ferries depart from early morning to late afternoon, offering you the opportunity to tailor your trip. The journey takes 2-3 hours, so you’ll be in Spetses quickly, ready to enjoy the island.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
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Syros
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Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, combines the elegance of neoclassical architecture with the vibrant island culture. A stroll through the alleys of Ermoupolis, the impressive town hall, and the rich cultural heritage are just some of the things you will enjoy on the island. Whether you prefer to relax on its beaches or discover the island’s hidden gems, Syros offers something for everyone.
How to get to Syros
Your journey starts from Piraeus, with daily departures from the ferry companies Seajets and Blue Star Ferries. You can choose between high-speed and conventional ferries, depending on the time you want to dedicate to your trip. The journey takes approximately 2.5-4 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose.
Ticket prices start at €45.50 for passengers, and if you want to take your car along, vehicle tickets start at €102.50. Ferries depart from early morning until the afternoon, allowing you to choose the time that suits you best.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
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Santorini
With its spectacular sunsets, traditional villages, and iconic volcanic landscape Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in Greece. Its picturesque white buildings, combined with the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, make Santorini an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway.
How to get to Santorini
The daily routes from Piraeus to Santorini are operated by the following ferry companies Seajets, Blue Star Ferries, and Zante Ferries. You can choose between fast ferries and conventional ferries, with journey times ranging from 5 hours and 20 minutes to 10 hours and 45 minutes, depending on the type of ferry you prefer.
Ticket prices start at €45.50 for passengers, while if you want to transport your car, the cost is around €128. Ferries depart from morning to afternoon, offering flexibility on your journey.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
Book Ferry Tickets from Piraeus to Santorini
Aegina
Looking for a nearby destination for a quick getaway? Aegina is the ideal choice! The island offers wonderful beaches, delicious local delicacies, and relaxing walks through the picturesque alleys. Just an hour from Piraeus, you will find yourself in a destination that combines relaxation and fun.
How to get to Aegina
The daily schedules of the companies Saronic Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, Aegean Flying Dolphins, San Lorenzo Ferries, and Magic Sea Ferries from Piraeus to Aegina offer the opportunity for a comfortable trip. The journey takes a little over 1 hour. With both morning and afternoon schedules, you can choose the one that suits your plans the best.
The price of a passenger ticket starts at €12, while tickets to transport your car start at €25. So, you can explore the island in comfort and style. However, if you want to avoid the crowded spots, you can travel directly to the port of Souvala, on the northern side of the island. The trip takes about 1 hour, and ticket prices start from €10.50.
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
Book Ferry Tickets from Piraeus to Aegina
Book Ferry Tickets from Piraeus to Souvala, Aegina
Book Ferry Tickets from Piraeus to Agia Marina, Aegina
Skiathos
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Famous for its rich forests and magnificent beaches, Skiathos is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy nature and the cosmopolitan character of the island. This island is the perfect choice for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway over the weekend of October 28.
How to get to Skiathos
If you are sailing to Skiathos from Thessaly, the port of Volos is the most popular choice, with routes offered by Seajets and Aegean Flying Dolphins. The journey takes from 1 hour and 25 minutes to 2 hours and 25 minutes. Daily departures offer you the flexibility to choose the time that suits you best.
If you prefer a faster route, you can choose to travel from the port of Mantoudi in Evia with Cape Verde Ferries. The route departs at 10:30 and arrives in Skiathos at 12:20, making the journey just 1 hour and 50 minutes. For your return journey, the ferry departs Skiathos at 16:10 and arrives in Mandoudi at 18:00. Tickets from Volos to Skiathos start from €34.70 for passengers, while from Mantoudi to Skiathos ticket prices start from €29.
How to get to the port of Volos
The port of Volos is close to the city center and is easily accessible by car, taxi or bus. The bus service offers regular bus services for easy access from Larissa and other areas of Thessaly. If you plan to start from Athens, the port of Volos is about 320 km away, and the journey by car takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. There are also bus services from Athens that connect the Greek capital with Volos.
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How to get to the port of Mantoudi, Evia
The port of Mantoudi is located about 2 hours away from Athens and is accessible by car via the National Road Athens-Lamia and Evia. The distance is approximately 120 km from Athens. Alternatively, you can use bus services to reach the port.
Book Ferry Tickets from Madoudi to Skiathos
*Prices may vary depending on the day of booking, the ferry company, and the type of accommodation you choose to travel with.
Book Ferry Tickets for October 28 with Ferryscanner!
The weekend of October 28 is the perfect opportunity to escape to one of the many destinations that are within easy reach by ferry. Whether you prefer the tranquility of Aegina, the cosmopolitan charm of Skiathos, or the traditional beauty of Andros and Spetses, these islands are waiting for you for an unforgettable experience. Book your ferry tickets for the October 28 long weekend with Ferryscanner and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating trip.