My wife and I will be in Athens for 5 days in late August, and we are wondering which islands we should go visit during our short stay. We are in our early 30's and it is our first vacation without kids in a long time. We arrive in Athens on Sunday, and have to leave from Athens on Friday.
I would really appreciate any ideas of where we should visit, and which hotels are recommended.
Thanks,

Jason

Hi,

Since you do ot have a lot of time, I would suggest that you look into the islands near Athens. Hydra is a wonderful island and I also like Argina. Poros is also near by. All these islands are a quick ferry ride away. I do not know about hotels on these islands, but do a google search. Also for a hotel in Athens do a search on this site. There have been quiet a few discussions about this lately. Have a wonderful time.

IF you ca afford to fly, Santorini, Mykonos and Naxos are all less than an hour from Athens. I always recommend Santorini, but each has its own attractions. Just be sure you have confirmed reservations, on a plane or a ferry, and for your hotel. August will be extremely crowded.

Hi -- My opinion from my experience, is do not try & travel too much in 5 days. You could enjoy Athens for 1-1 1/2 days, & then I would recommend an early morning ferry to the Island of Hydra, an experience you will never forget. If you can, stay 2 days in Hydra and then return to Athens, via high speed ferry. Every island should be approached via ferry, the experience cannot be described. Once you decide your itinerary, people can help you with hotels, but we do need to know you budget. Happy travel. Sandy in Oregon

Thanks for the information. How long is the ferry rides to the islands like Santorini & Mykonos. Is it too far to just go for 1 or 2 days?? Do you think that maybe we should just pick one island and take the time to go there?
As far as budget is concerned, we don't want to spend too much money, but considering we don't get away without kids too often, I don't mind spending a bit. What are the approximate differences between flights and ferries? Hotels, I would liket o try and stay under $250 - $300/ night.