Santorini to Kos The Ultimate Island Hopping Experience on Blue Star Ferry

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Island Hopping in the Mediterranean

Our last spring break in Europe took us to the stunning Greek islands of Santorini and Kos. We flew to Kos for the unbelievably low price of 3.99 Euro each on Ryanair—roughly $5. Yes, you read that right. With such a bargain on flights, I felt justified in splurging on accommodations. We checked into the Kos Aktis Art Hotel, a chic boutique hotel that perfectly balances modern luxury and authentic Greek charm. The hotel’s location was ideal—Kos Town at the front door and the serene Aegean Sea steps away at the back. Waking up to gentle waves lapping against the shore while having the city’s vibrant heart within walking distance made it one of our most memorable stays.

Table of Contents

• Island Hopping in the Mediterranean
• Why Kos, Greece?
• Top 3 Things to Do on Kos
• Kos & Santorini Islands in Greece
• Ancient Greece
• Taking the Ferry to Santorini
• Santorini, Greece & The Blue Star Ferry
• Blue Bay Villas
• Gyros, FYI – It’s Pronounced “Heroes”
• Mules in Santorini, Greece
• I Love Greece
• Like it! Pin it!

Why Kos, Greece?

Kos is a fascinating blend of modern life and ancient history. This beautiful town showcases a collection of freestanding marble columns that date back to the 3rd century. With a little imagination and the sun hitting at just the right angle, you can almost picture the ancient shrine to Aphrodite, the Hercules Temple, and the remains of a Christian basilica. As a result, the layers of history are so tangible here that it feels like you’re walking through time, where every corner reveals a glimpse of Greece’s rich past.

Top 3 Things to Do on Kos

Kos Island offers plenty of attractions that cater to both history buffs and beach lovers alike. First on the list is the Asklepion, an ancient healing center dedicated to the god of medicine, Asklepios. The ruins are beautifully preserved, and the views of the surrounding landscape are spectacular. Next, head to Tigaki Beach, a long stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for relaxing, swimming, or trying out some water sports. The crystal-clear waters make it one of the best beaches on the island.

Finally, explore the Castle of the Knights of Saint John and take a stroll through Kos Old Town. The medieval fortress, built by the Knights of St. John, offers stunning views of the harbor and surrounding town. Afterward, wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town, where you’ll find charming shops, traditional tavernas, and ancient ruins scattered between modern life. It’s the perfect mix of history and local culture, making it a must-see area of Kos.

Kos & Santorini Islands in Greece

The hotel featured a glass balcony that offered breathtaking, unobstructed views of the endless ocean. I was so captivated by the setting that I booked it for three of our four trips to the island. However, if you’re envisioning soft, white sandy beaches, you might be disappointed. Agios Fokas Beach features a mix of black sand and pebbles, framed by nearby hotels and restaurants. But the water—clear, sparkling, and inviting—more than makes up for the lack of traditional sand. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, simply soaking in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea as the gentle sound of waves rolls in.

Where we stayed: Kos Aktis Art Hotel

Ancient Greece

The lovely cobblestone Plateia Platanou is perfect for a coffee break or even McDonald’s. Hippocrates Plane Tree, once mighty, now stands with the help of scaffolding, ripe with whispers of ancient wisdom. The square’s turreted mosque sits silently in a corner. Nearby, the 14th-century castle still looms, protecting the harbor from ancient invaders.

Taking the Ferry to Santorini

I bought tickets for the Blue Star Ferry from Kos to Santorini, the process was easy. The ticket office is located at Kos Port, and the ferry docks at Athinios Port in Santorini. Both ports have cafes and restrooms, so you can grab a snack or use the facilities.

The ride takes 6 to 7 hours, depending on stops, and tickets. We bought tickets for €41 but they are currently range from €45 to €65 for adults, with discounted fares for kids. The ferry offers economy and reserved seating, plus onboard cafes and lounges for meals. Or, you can find a comfy seat and do absolutely nothing but take in the scenery. Booking ahead is smart, especially during summer.

Santorini, Greece & The Blue Star Ferry

We took the overnight ferry to Santorini, and it was far more than just transportation—it was fabulous. The ferry was spacious, with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of room to stretch out. It made the journey feel more like part of the adventure rather than just a way to get from point A to B. Cruising past the islands under the stars was a breathtaking experience. When we arrived, our hotel had kindly arranged a taxi, and tea and biscuits were waiting in our room. My daughter’s ship was anchored nearby, and we took the cable car down to the jetty for a brief tour of her ship—a special moment with Santorini’s cliffs as the backdrop.

Blue Bay Villas

Our stay at Blue Bay Villas was exactly what we needed for a family-friendly getaway. It’s not one of those famous cliffside villas with dramatic views, but it more than makes up for it with its peaceful atmosphere and warm hospitality. The rooms were simple but comfortable, with private balconies where we could unwind. The kids absolutely loved the pool—they practically lived in it! We spent hours there every day, and it felt like we had the place to ourselves. The owners were incredibly welcoming, and while the hotel doesn’t have a lot of frills, its proximity to the beach and laid-back vibe made it a great value for a relaxing family escape.

Where we stayed: Blue Bay Villas

Gyros, FYI – It’s Pronounced “Heroes”

We spent three days indulging in mouthwatering gyros—yes, it’s pronounced “heroes.” The budget hotel we stayed in was basic, with no cable and just a few fuzzy channels on the TV, but we didn’t mind. The real luxury was having the pool all to ourselves. The kids spent hours splashing around or building sandcastles on the beach, completely content with the simple joys of sun and water.

Mules in Santorini, Greece

After using the cable car to descend earlier in the day, we had to find an alternative when strong winds made it unsafe to return that way. Reluctantly, we chose to ride the mules. What seemed like a quaint solution quickly turned into a heart-pounding adventure. The mules plodded up the steep cliffside, swaying dangerously close to the edge or bumping against the stone wall. Each slow, deliberate step felt like an eternity. It was the slowest yet most nerve-wracking adrenaline rush of my life.

Oia, Greece

On our final night, we headed to Oia to witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets I’ve ever seen. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery oranges, soft pinks, and deep purples. We stood there, completely silent, mesmerized by the sheer beauty unfolding in front of us. Even the kids, usually full of energy and chatter, didn’t say a word. No phones, no distractions—just us and that unforgettable moment as the world seemed to pause.

I Love Greece

We spent many vacations in Greece and Croatia, where the beautiful Mediterranean weather welcomed us with warm, sunny days and cool, breezy nights. The climate made every outdoor activity a pleasure, from lounging on the beaches to wandering through ancient ruins. Kos, in particular, offers an authentic blend of island culture and history. Its rich past is evident in every corner, with remnants of ancient temples and fortresses providing a backdrop to everyday life. The island’s laid-back vibe, combined with its fascinating history, creates a perfect balance for those who love both relaxation and exploration.

Fresh food is another reason to fall in love with Kos and Santorini. The local markets are filled with fresh, inexpensive produce—everything from juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs to the freshest seafood imaginable. Tasting a simple Greek salad or freshly grilled fish feels like a luxury, yet comes at a surprisingly low cost. The food here is a reflection of the island lifestyle: fresh, unfussy, and full of flavor.

Santorini, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and volcanic beaches, might seem like a destination for romantic getaways, but it’s equally enjoyable for families. The island’s unique landscape, shaped by volcanic activity, creates stunning views, while the vibrant sunsets leave everyone, even teenagers, in awe. The island culture of both Kos and Santorini is warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the sea. Locals take pride in their traditions, and visitors are often invited to experience them firsthand, whether through a shared meal or a local festival.

Ryanair’s cheap fares made Kos a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby islands like Santorini, offering affordable and easy access to some of Greece’s most beautiful destinations. Book your budget island escape to Kos, Greece, via Ryanair, and discover the charm of Greek island life for yourself.

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