Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and sun-drenched islands?
Wondering how to get from Croatia to Greece? There are several options, from direct flights and overnight ferries to overland routes and connecting flights.
Explore the best way to turn your Balkan fantasy into a reality.
Key Takeaways
- Direct flights from Croatia to Greece take around 1.5 hours, with several airlines offering convenient routes.
- Ferry travel via Italy allows for overnight journeys and island-hopping opportunities in the Aegean Sea.
- Overland routes through Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria require more time but offer an adventurous experience.
- Connecting flights through Athens provide easy access to popular Greek islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes.
- Croatia offers diverse accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, catering to every type of traveler.
Direct Flights
Traveling from Croatia to Greece has never been easier. The quickest way is by taking a direct flight, which typically gets you there in around 1.5 hours.
Croatia Airlines, Aegean Airlines, and Volotea all offer these nonstop routes, connecting cities like Dubrovnik and Split to Athens.
Departing from Zagreb? You can catch direct flights with Aegean Airlines and Croatia Airlines. The latter has a quick layover in Dubrovnik.
Budget-friendly options like EasyJet and Ryanair also link various Croatian destinations to Greece, so you can plan your trip around your budget and preferences.
These direct flights are especially convenient during peak travel seasons when frequency increases. So whether you're looking to explore the ancient Greek ruins or the stunning Croatian coastline, direct flights make the journey between these two beautiful countries a breeze.
Ferry via Italy
Crossing the Adriatic: Croatia to Greece by Ferry
Traveling from Croatia to Greece doesn't have to be a complicated journey. One scenic route is by ferry via Italy. Hop on an overnight JADROLINIJA ferry from Dubrovnik to Bari – a smooth 11-hour sail across the Adriatic.
Once in Bari, you've got a few options to reach your Greek destination. You can catch a direct ferry to ports or islands like Corfu, Igoumenitsa, Patras, or Sami (Kefalonia). Or, if your final stop is a popular Greek island, sail to the port of Piraeus near Athens, then travel onward.
From the bustling Piraeus port, an abundance of ferries are available to whisk you away to your desired Greek island. It's a convenient way to island-hop around the stunning Aegean.
To make the most of this ferry route, use a booking platform like Direct Ferries. They let you easily compare connections between Croatia, Italy, and the Greek islands, so you can plan the perfect sea voyage.
Overland Routes
Overland Routes
Traveling overland between Croatia and Greece is certainly an intrepid endeavor, but not impossible. While there are no direct train or bus connections, adventurous travelers can stitch together a route through neighboring countries.
The most straightforward path leads through Serbia and North Macedonia, taking you from Zagreb to Thessaloniki in at least 22 hours – that's assuming no delays along the way. If you're starting in Dubrovnik, the quickest route is through Albania, though schedules can be a bit unpredictable.
Alternatively, you can take the longer, but more reliable journey via North Macedonia and Bulgaria. Just be sure to check visa requirements for any countries you'll be passing through based on your citizenship.
| Route | Duration | Visa Requirements | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zagreb – Thessaloniki | 22+ hrs | Varies by citizenship | Potential delays |
| Dubrovnik – Greece via Albania | Shortest | Check for Albania & Greece | Unreliable schedules |
| Via North Macedonia & Bulgaria | Longer | Especially for North Macedonia | More reliable |
The choice ultimately comes down to your travel style and comfort level with potential hiccups. Those seeking the most straightforward overland passage may opt for the Serbia-North Macedonia route, while others may prefer the added reliability of the North Macedonia-Bulgaria journey, even if it takes a bit longer. Just be sure to plan ahead and stay flexible – overland travel in this region can be an adventure in itself!
Connecting Flights
Reaching Greece from Croatia: Seamless Flight Options
Flying is undoubtedly the quickest and most convenient way to travel from Croatia to Greece.
Croatia to Athens: Nonstop Flights
For a direct trip, you can choose from flights operated by Croatia Airlines, Aegean Airlines, and Volotea between Dubrovnik and Athens. These flights take around 1.5 hours, getting you to the Greek capital in no time.
Connecting to the Greek Islands
From Athens, you can easily connect to flights serving popular Greek destinations like Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes. This opens up a world of island-hopping possibilities.
Reaching Central Athens
Once you land in Athens, the quickest way to get to the city center is by booking a private car transfer with Welcome Pickups. This takes the hassle out of navigating public transportation.
Flights from Zagreb to Athens
Prefer to start your journey from Croatia's inland capital? Aegean Airlines offers direct flights between Zagreb and Athens, providing a seamless connection from Croatia to Greece.
Island Hopping in Greece
Once you've arrived in Greece, you can use Direct Ferries to easily compare and book ferry tickets between the islands. This gives you the freedom to explore the Greek archipelago at your own pace.
Accommodation Options
Croatia's accommodation options cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're a budget-conscious backpacker or a luxury-seeking vacationer, there's something to suit your needs.
For those seeking affordability, hostels provide a budget-friendly choice, especially for solo travelers and backpackers looking to mingle with fellow adventurers. Campsites along the coast and in the interior also offer an outdoor-oriented experience at a reasonable price.
If you prefer more space and privacy, vacation rentals like apartments and villas are a great option. These often come equipped with kitchen facilities, making them ideal for longer stays.
On the other end of the spectrum, Croatia's hotels range from affordable to high-end, with amenities like pools, spas, and on-site dining. These are perfect for those seeking a more traditional hotel experience.
No matter your budget or preferences, Croatia has a diverse array of accommodation to ensure you find the perfect fit for your travels. From cozy hostels to lavish resorts, the options are plentiful and cater to every type of traveler.
