If you’re looking for a holiday without the stress of driving where you can enjoy the peaceful landscapes on foot, Greece has tons of options. Its islands are full of heavenly beaches, picturesque alleys, and unique local flavors, all without the need for bringing your own transport.
In this article, we’ll describe 12 Greek islands where you can enjoy your holiday without a car, so you won’t have to worry about the price of petrol, parking or long-distance travel.
Greek islands you can explore without a car
Discover these 12 Greek islands for a carefree holiday without the stress of your car:
Once you decide where to go, you can book your ferry tickets easily, quickly, and economically in just a few clicks using Ferryscanner.
1. Koufonisia
Koufonisia consists of two islands, Ano and Kato Koufonissi, which are located in the Small Cyclades. Ano Koufonissi is more developed and there you will find picturesque beaches such as Pori and Gala. Here, the distances are short and you can easily cover them on foot. Consider that you can cross all the beaches on foot in about half an hour. Kato Koufonissi is almost uninhabited and ideal for those seeking absolute tranquility. If you want to visit the beaches in Kato Koufonissi, it is better to do it by boat.
Book ferry tickets to Koufonisia
2. Antiparos
Antiparos is located next to Paros and is one of the most popular destinations for car-free holidays. The center of the island, with its narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, is inviting for hiking. The famous cave of Antiparos and the beautiful beaches, such as Soros and Agios Georgios, are easily accessible by foot, bike, or motorbike. Don’t worry you can rent a bike or motorbike upon arrival on the island.
3. Halki
A peaceful, small island with an area of only 28 square kilometers that does not require a car is Halki (also written as Chalki). As the first environmentally friendly island in Greece, Halki stands out for its peace and tranquility. Halki is the smallest inhabited island of the Dodecanese. On this island, you can completely forget about the idea of driving, as everything is so close that the best way to explore the island is only on foot. The locals have chosen to live without cars, offering you total tranquility without the stress of traffic and parking. Your daily routine on the island will be simple and relaxed, with strolls through the narrow streets of Emporio, the main settlement, and stops at traditional cafes to enjoy the local hospitality. Halki’s beaches, such as Pontamos and Kania, are waiting for you to discover them, with their clear waters and natural beauty inviting you to relax and rejuvenate.
4. Hydra
Hydra is one of the most famous islands of the Saronic Gulf and one of the few islands in Greece where cars are completely forbidden. The only vehicle you will see is the municipality’s garbage truck. The picturesque port of Hydra is filled with historic mansions and pedestrian walkways that lead you to stunning beaches like Kamini and Vlyho. The island’s trails are numerous and picturesque and you will have the opportunity to discover them on foot or for the more active ones by bike.
5. Schinoussa
Schinoussa is a small and authentic Cycladic island that belongs to the Small Cyclades. The few inhabitants of Schinoussa and the 15 peaceful beaches, such as Livadi and Tsigouri, make it an ideal destination for the ultimate relaxing holiday. Considering that it has an area of about 8 square kilometers, a car is not an option for getting around. Most of the roads are not paved so if you like hiking you have one more reason to choose Schinoussa for your next holiday.
Book ferry tickets to Schinoussa
6. Agistri
Agistri is located very close to the port of Piraeus and is an ideal destination for short trips from Athens even for a one-day getaway. Its small size and natural beauty make it perfect for exploring it on foot. The beaches of Skala and Dragonera are the most popular and are easily accessible without a car. Of course, you have the option to rent a bike and get around the island very easily.
7. Donoussa
Donousa is an isolated island in the Small Cyclades group that offers unparalleled natural beauty. The few visitors enjoy the quiet beaches such as Kedros and Livadi, which are accessible on foot. The island’s small community is welcoming and the island’s trails offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Never mind that due to its size, it won’t be too crowded in August either, what more can you ask for?
Book ferry tickets to Donoussa
8. Gavdos
Gavdos, located south of Crete, is a destination that is ideal for an adventurous holiday. With few inhabitants and spectacular scenery, such as the beach of Agios Ioannis and Korfia, the island offers absolute tranquillity. Getting around is mainly done on foot but of course, you can also opt for a bike to make your experience a little more fun as the distances are short and the atmosphere is in harmony with nature.
In the southernmost point of Europe, the area of Tripiti in Gavdos, a special experience awaits you, the famous chair. You can get there either by a hike of about an hour or by boat if you prefer a more comfortable route. The Chair of Tripiti, a giant wooden structure, is known for its impressive size and the stunning views it offers of the endless blue of the Libyan Sea. Sitting there, you will feel like you are at the end of the world, making it a popular destination for visitors looking for unique moments and unforgettable photos.
9. Lipsi
In Lipsi, one of the hidden gems of the Dodecanese, the relaxed atmosphere is the key to enjoying your holiday to the fullest. The island is small and walkable, with every corner of the island accessible without much effort. You can explore its quaint little villages and beaches either on foot or by motorbike, which is the popular mode of transport here. The island’s road network is just 14 kilometers long, but if you want more comfort, regular bus services will take you to the most beautiful beaches, such as Platis Gialos and Katsadia.
Lipsi is famous for its crystal clear, deep blue waters, as well as for the authentic Greek hospitality that makes you feel at home. The small tavernas, scattered all over the island, offer fresh fish and local delicacies that are worth trying. Lipsi is also known for its tranquility, with visitors appreciating the seclusion and authenticity that the island offers, far from the crowds of the more popular tourist destinations.
10. Folegandros
Folegandros is a charming island that offers an authentic Cycladic experience, without the need for a car. At its port, Karavostasis, you will find a bus stop that easily connects you to Chora and Ano Meria, two of the most characteristic parts of the island. Chora, with its cobbled streets and four central squares, is ideal for exploring on foot. The medieval castle of Chora, with its narrow streets and traditional houses, transports you to another era, while the limited parking possibilities and narrow streets make the car unnecessary.
As for the beaches, Folegandros offers a variety of hidden beauties that can be reached either by local bus or by the small boats that depart from Karavostasis or Agali. Popular choices include Katergo Beach, which is considered one of the best on the island, and the blue-water beach of Agkali. An experience not to be missed is the sunset from Panagia Chora, the iconic church that dominates the hilltop. The climb takes about 15 minutes on foot from Chora, and the view from there is breathtaking, with the sun sinking into the endless blue of the Aegean Sea.
Book ferry tickets to Folegandros
11. Sikinos
Sikinos, one of the most authentic and least touristic islands of the Cyclades, is the ideal destination for those seeking peace and relaxation away from the crowds. Here, you don’t need a car to enjoy the island’s beauties, as the distances are short and easily accessible either on foot or by local buses. The main port of Sikinos, Alopronia, is a picturesque seaside settlement with traditional tavernas and clean beaches, ideal for diving in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. From here, you can take the bus to Chora, the main settlement of the island, which is built on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the sea.
Chora of Sikinos stands out for its cobbled streets and traditional Cycladic houses, while a visit to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, standing proudly on the edge of a cliff, is an experience not to be missed. The beaches of Sikinos are few but enchanting, the most famous being those of Agios Georgios and Malliada.
Access is mainly on foot or by local bus, offering the opportunity to enjoy the nature and tranquillity of the island.
12. Kimolos
Kimolos, a small but charming island in the Cyclades, is the ideal destination for those seeking authentic experiences and relaxing holidays away from the crowds. On this island, a car is not necessary as the distances are short and can be easily covered on foot or by local transport. Chora of Kimolos, the picturesque settlement with its whitewashed houses and cobbled alleys, is the center of life on the island. Here, you can get lost in the narrow streets, visit the Castle, which offers a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea, and enjoy the local cuisine in traditional taverns.
Kimolos is renowned for its simplicity and authenticity, and visiting this island allows you to live everyday life like the locals. The beaches of Kimolos are among the most beautiful in the Cyclades, with their crystal clear waters and calm atmosphere. Prasa Beach, with its white sand and turquoise waters, is probably the most popular beach on the island and is accessible by local bus. Other beaches, such as Rema and Kalamitsi, are also great for relaxing and swimming, and many are easily accessible by short hikes.
Book ferry tickets using Ferryscanner
Book your ferry tickets with Ferryscanner easily, quickly, and economically to enjoy a holiday full of relaxation and exploration amongst the beautiful Greek islands where you don’t need to drive. Greece has a wealth of destinations to offer where tranquility and authenticity combine seamlessly, giving you the opportunity to live unforgettable experiences. These 12 islands for a car-free holiday are waiting for you to discover them.