Car-free (and Carefree) Islands in Greece

Lifestyle

29.07.2026

Among Greece's greatest charms is its wealth of islands. There are so many to discover, each one surrounded by the deep blue of the sea. What many people might not know, is that there are a few of them where cars are not allowed.

Hydra

The island of Hydra is found in the Saronic Gulf (south of Athens) and is one of the most well-off islands in Greece because it is near Athens. Many families choose to go just for the weekend. The island is very steep, and the only form of transport is mules that are found in the port. The island has retained its charm because neither cars nor motorcycles are allowed here. The silence is broken only by the mules' steps on the cobbled streets and the occasional church bells ringing. Architecturally, you will not find white and blue houses like in the rest of the Cyclades, but likely Hydra's characteristic mansions.

Telendos

Telendos is a small island near Kalymnos. There are no roads, so no matter where you stay on the island, you will not be woken up by the sound of traffic. There is a ferry that drops you on Telendos from the port of Mytries in Kalymnos. The island of Telendos is known for its small harbor with fishing vessels and the shady 1-kilometer stretch of beach next to town. For those willing to walk a bit, Potha and Paradise Beach are not far away. Here, you can see underwater ruins of a city from before the early Christian period, or hike to Christian necropolises or basilicas.

Spetses

Spetses sits in the Saronic Gulf, an easy trip from Athens, which makes it another favourite for a weekend away. Private cars are kept out of the old town and the area around the main harbour, so the streets stay calm. People get around on foot, by bicycle, or in the horse-drawn carriages that wait near the port. The island is known for its neoclassical mansions and its part in the Greek War of Independence, and the grand Poseidonion hotel still looks out over the water. Cafes, quiet coves and a slow pace make it easy to spend a day or two here without ever reaching for a car.

Kastellorizo (Castellorizo)

The island of Kastellorizo is also referred to as “Megisti” and is found in the southeast Mediterranean. It is 1 mile from Turkey and 78 miles east of Rhodes. There is admittedly 1 taxi on Kastellorizo, but otherwise, it is untouched by car traffic. The island’s history goes back to ancient times, and the Castle of the Knights of Saint John is one of the biggest attractions here. Although Kastellorizo is one of Greece’s smallest inhabited islands, there is plenty to keep you busy– like snorkeling, swimming, hiking, fishing, and excursions to local caves. Of course, the local seafood dishes of Kastellorizo’s tavernas are hard to beat! One of the most popular sights near town is the blue cave, a local grotto where the reflection of the sun off the turquoise water turns the cave a soothing blue color.

Trizonia

Trizonia is the only inhabited island in the Corinthian Gulf, tucked close to the mainland coast of Fokida. Cars and motorcycles are banned here, so the island stays green and quiet, crossed only by dirt paths and walking trails. Getting there is simple, as small boats make the short crossing from the nearby mainland in just a few minutes. There is a small marina where boats drop anchor in summer, a handful of tavernas serving fresh fish, and a few small beaches you can reach on foot. It is the least-known island on this list, which is part of its charm.

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