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Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

From choosing the right hotel to getting around, here's how to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in Greece.

Planning a trip to the Greek Islands can be intimidating, even for the most seasoned travelers. With more than 200 inhabited Greek isles (and about 6,000 islands and islets in total), the magnitude of the archipelagos is astounding. Each has its own character and aesthetic, from Cyclades islands dotted with white-and-blue houses to the lush and green Ionian islands to the castle-lined Dodecanese islands.

Overall, Greece has six main island groups, plus a significant stand-alone: Crete. It's generally easiest to travel between islands within one group than to hop between archipelagos. In this guide, we'll break down the best Greek islands to visit, including what each island group is known for, and how to travel within each archipelago.

Getting Around the Greek Islands

While many of the Greek islands have airports, not all of them have international terminals. Many islands are serviced solely by domestic carriers like Aegean Airlines , and you can only fly from neighboring islands or Athens. However, some of the most popular islands (including Crete and Santorini) have international airports, where you can fly directly from cities in Europe or the Middle East.

Traveling by ferry simplifies island hopping, especially if you're just exploring one archipelago. On the Cyclades Islands, Seajets is the high-speed ferry, though travelers can find all options (including less expensive ferries) via Greek Ferries . It is possible, of course, to rent a car in Athens — or on one of the islands — and drive it onto the ferry, essentially turning your island-hopping excursion into a seafaring road trip. However, it's easy to rent a car on the islands, too, provided you have an international driver's license with you.

When to Visit the Greek Isles

May, June, and September are great months to visit the Grecian isles if you're looking for nice weather but still hoping to avoid the crowds. The high season (mid-June to mid-September) offers more ferry routes, flight options, and open restaurants and beach bars, but it also means more tourists and higher prices. Each island group has its own weather to look into — Crete is warmest year-round, making it a great choice for late fall or winter. And while some islands, such as Hydra, are full of locals and see tourists year-round, others, such as Santorini, get very quiet in the off-season (November to March). Here, we've put together an overview of each group of islands (and the highlights of each archipelago) to help you plan your next Grecian adventure.

The Cyclades Islands

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

This archipelago is the most common first stop for American travelers in Greece, with two of the most-visited islands: Mykonos and Santorini. A group of about 24 inhabited islands (and 220 total isles), this bunch looks like all the postcards of Greece you've seen: white churches with blue domes and pink bougainvillea vines shading secluded side streets.

Mykonos is known for its nightlife and see-and-be-seen beaches, but it also has a gorgeous Cycladic village in its center, with windmills and winding lanes designed to confuse pirates centuries ago. Santorini is romantic and luxurious, beloved by honeymooners lounging in their private pools overlooking the caldera. For those looking for alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini, options abound. Up-and-coming Milos has otherworldly beaches and the famed sea caves, Tinos is the site of a famous Church of the Virgin Mary, and the rustic Lesser Cyclades (Koufonisia, Donousa, Schinoussa, and Iraklia) are great for camping. There are large islands, like Naxos and Syros, the archipelago's capital, and tiny ones with very little tourism, like Sikinos.

How to Travel the Cyclades Islands

The tourist season on the Cycladic islands runs from mid-April to mid-October (peaking in June, July, and August). If it's your first time in the area, you'll want to start by visiting Mykonos or Santorini. On Santorini, you'll find great wineries, like Venetsanos and Santo , while on Mykonos, it's the nightlife that will keep you coming back, with iconic clubs like Scorpios and Super Paradise . When exploring some of the smaller islands, like Ios, Folegandros, and Milos, swim, snorkel, and wander the fortress-like capital of each island. The cobbled alleyways are home to shops, galleries, bars, and tavernas (on most islands the main town is called "Chora"; on Milos, it's "Plaka"). And don't miss sailing adventures around the Cycladic islands — look into companies like Polco Sailing on Milos and Sunset Oia Cruises on Santorini.

Where to Stay

On Santorini, start your trip by staying amidst the iconic, cliffside white-and-blue houses of Oia at Andronis Luxury Suites . Next, move along the caldera to the village of Imerovigli, where you'll find some of the most over-the-top and romantic hotels, including Andronis Concept Wellness Resort and Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection . Finally, stay a night in the old town of Pyrgos at Santorini Sky .

On Mykonos, start your vacation at The Wild Hotel by Interni , which has a luxurious boutique atmosphere and a private beach open only to guests. For an ideal honeymoon in Greece , spend a few exceptionally romantic nights at Kalesma Mykonos , where each suite has its own infinity-edge pool.

Elsewhere in the Cyclades, look for luxury boutique hotels (many, like The Wild and Kalesma, are family owned). Try Milos Breeze on Milos, Coco-Mat Eco Residences on Serifos, Calilo on Ios, and the Naxian Collection Luxury Villas & Suites on Naxos.

The largest Greek island (and the southernmost, roughly halfway between Europe and Africa), Crete could be its own country. Because there's so much to explore, many travelers focus their energy on the 160-mile-long island rather than straying to other archipelagos.

How to Travel on Crete

The island has two main airports, making Crete very easy to get to from Athens. Once on the island, you will want to rent a car; it takes about six hours to drive from one end of Crete to the other.

The island boasts some of the best beaches in Greece , including Elafonissi, with its unparalleled pink sand, and Elounda, known for its five-star beach clubs. Hike the Samaria Gorge (which takes five to seven hours through streams and between cliffs), or walk through wildflowers along paths in the mountain villages. Visit the ruins of the Knossos Palace, home of the Minoan empire (and the dreaded Minotaur monster), and the Boutari Winery if you're an oenophile interested in sampling Cretan wines. Finally, if you have time for a day trip, the isle of Spinalonga, off the coast of Elounda, is worth visiting for its wild beauty and tragic history — it was home to a colony of people affected by leprosy until 1957.

Where to Stay on Crete

With picturesque olive groves sloping down to sandy beaches, Elounda has become something of a Cretan Riviera. This stretch along the island's northeast coast is lined with swanky resorts including Crete's only Relais & Chateaux property, the Elounda Mare , and the contemporary Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa .

Outside the island's capital city of Heraklion is the family-friendly five-star beachfront resort Amirandes , part of the national Grecotel chain (take a detour to have dinner on their farm, Agreco ). Moving west, you'll find the well-preserved Venetian town of Rethymno, and more historic boutique hotel options like Kapsaliana Village Hotel , built around an 18th-century olive oil mill, and Casa Delfino , a renovated 17th-century mansion inside the walled old town of Chania.

Saronic Gulf Islands

The closest island group to Athens is also home to some of the most scenic, under-the-radar isles. Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, and little Agistri are popular with Greek weekenders and European visitors but are less known to Americans.

How to Travel the Saronic Gulf Islands

The Nantucket of Greece, car-free Hydra is tiny but mighty. Spetses has green pine trees, yachts parked in the harbor, and traditional horse-drawn carriages along its waterfronts. Family-friendly Poros, with tree-shaded beaches and a charming town dominated by a clock tower, is popular among sailing aficionados. Aegina, the closest island to Athens, has a large port town, sandy beaches, and the ancient Temple of Aphaia dedicated to the goddess of Athena. Because the Saronic Gulf islands are so close to Athens, getting here is simple: A hydrofoil from the port of Piraeus ferries you from Athens to each of these destinations.

Hydra and Spetses are brimming with converted captains' homes (we like the Cotommatae on Hydra and Orloff Resort on Spetses). On Poros, Sto Roloi is a collection of traditional island houses turned into holiday villas, while Sirene Blue Luxury Beach Resort offers plush suites and villas with access to swimming pools and a private beach. Renting a villa through Five Star Greece is also an option, especially on Aegina where weekend homes outshine the hotels. The crown jewel of the Saronic Gulf is Spetses' harborfront Poseidonion Grand Hotel, established in 1914, which is just as lavish as its name suggests.

The Ionian Islands

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Lush and green, the Ionian Islands (also known as "Eptanissia" or the "seven islands") offer unique local culture, music, art, cuisine, and architecture. While the Ionians are known, first and foremost, for Corfu, the six other main islands hold their own and attract their fair share of tourists, too.

How to Travel the Ionian Islands

On Corfu, you'll want to wander the streets of the island's UNESCO-protected Old Town . Near Corfu, tiny Paxos is covered in olive trees, with three charming bays and a satellite island, Antipaxos, known for its translucent waters. The largest of the Ionian Islands in size, Kefalonia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece and has semi-wild horses running around Mount Ainos in its center. Zakynthos is home to Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach), accessible only by sea, and iconic blue caves you can swim through. Lefkada, connected to the mainland by a bridge, has woodland villages and some of Greece's best beaches along its shores. Small Ithaka, known to Homer fans as the home of Odysseus, is still relatively undiscovered. Finally, Kythera is the outlier — it looks more Cycladic than Ionian and is more easily reached from the Peloponnese.

Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Kythera all have airports, which receive domestic flights from Athens as well as international charters and airlines.

On Corfu, options range from stylish seaside resorts like the Grecotel Corfu Imperial to historic 18th-century estates in the Tuscan-like interior such as the Pelecas Country Club . Near the Old Town, the first Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts property in Europe, Angsana Corfu , offers a gorgeous seaside enclave with 159 rooms and lavish pool villas.

On Kefalonia, the ultra-modern Tesoro Blu is an adults-only oasis just outside the village of Skala, and the Emelisse Nature Resort is a gem outside the picture-perfect town of Fiscardo. Its sister property on Ithaka, the Perantzada , is a contemporary hotel within a 19th-century mansion on the harbor in Vathy. Little Paxos is all villa rentals and rooms to rent except for a few intimate hotels, like Agali Hotel Paxos and Paxos Club Resort & Spa . On Zakynthos, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is a swanky oasis on the busy eastern coast, and in the quiet north of the island, near the blue caves, Nobelos is a four-suite, family-run hotel beloved for its organic restaurant.

The Sporades Islands

There are 24 of these green islands off of the northeastern coast of mainland Greece, but only four are inhabited — and if you've seen "Mamma Mia , " you know what they look like. Dark green pine trees, white churches, and lots of sand, rocks, and singing. It's all part of the Sporades experience.

How to Travel the Sporades Islands

Buzzy Skiathos is famous for its gold-sand beaches and nightlife, while low-key Skopelos is a natural paradise of white pebble coves, oak forests, monasteries, traditional villages, and lots of shipwrecks off the coast in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades . Alonissos is at the center of the National Marine Park, a great base for fishing, bird-watching, and spotting the protected Mediterranean monk seal. Finally, Skyros is known for its ceramics and local crafts, churches, and gorgeous Chora, a mountaintop capital crowned by a Venetian castle.

To get to the Sporades Islands, you can fly directly from Athens to Skiathos and Skyros. Skiathos is also served by a ferry from Thessaloniki. In summer, hydrofoils sail to all four islands from the port of Agios Konstantinos on the mainland. Each of the Sporades connects to the other by ferry or boat.

On these four islands, tourism is all about sailing, swimming, mountain biking, sea kayaking, and hiking. Hit the beaches — Skiathos's swanky Ambelakia to see and be seen, Skyros's Kalamitsa for wind-surfing, Skopelos's Hovolo for pine-scented breezes. Above all, do not miss sailing, swimming, or scuba diving in the marine park.

There are villas to rent all over the islands (like the ones with private pools run by Poikilma Villas on Alonissos). For a more full-service hotel, try the family-run Atrium Hotel above Agia Paraskevi beach in Skiathos, or the Adrina Resort & Spa on the beach in Skopelos.

The Northeast Aegean Islands

This collection of more than a dozen islands (the five most notable being Ikaria, Samos, Lemnos, Lesvos, and Chios) is the area of Greece closest to Turkey. For your journey here, you'll be richly rewarded with incredible beaches and natural wonders (a petrified forest on Lesvos, volcanic rocks and sand dunes on Limnos, and thermal springs on Ikaria).

How to Travel the Northeast Aegean Islands

Lemnos, Lesvos (also known as Mytilene), and Samos all have international airports, and Chios and Ikaria have domestic ones. There are several ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens that can take you to these islands as well.

Visit the archaeological sites of the Temple of Hera on Samos, the acropolis on Thassos, the ancient city of Ifestia on Lemnos, and the magnificent castle atop Lesvos. While these islands are famous for their history, they're also known for their water sports. Keros Beach on Lemnos is one of the best places to kite or windsurf in Europe. As for swimming, it's hard to beat the Seitani coves on Samos, Kipos beach on Samothrace, white-sand Seychelles on Ikaria, and Vatera on Lesvos.

Time-travel back to when Genovese nobility ruled Chios and stay at the majestic Argentikon Luxury Suites in a 16th-century estate. Sleep above popular Tsamadou beach at the Armonia Bay Hotel on Samos, overlooking the sea at Toxotis Villas on Ikaria, or on the beach in a luxury safari tent through Surf Club Limnos .

The Dodecanese Islands

This archipelago gets its name from the Greek number 12 (dodeca) because it contains — you guessed it — a dozen main islands and multiple smaller ones. Rhodes and Kos are the two largest islands, while the smaller 10 are quieter and less discovered.

How to Travel the Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes and Kos have international airports (making them popular among travelers who fly in from England and Germany), and Astypalaia, Kalymnos, and Karpathos receive domestic flights. All 12 main islands are served by ferries from the port of Athens, Piraeus.

Rhodes is known for its beautifully preserved walled city with Crusader castles and an ancient synagogue. And in the town of Lindos, there's an ancient Greek acropolis at the top of the hill, a medieval village in the middle, and a modern town on the beach at the bottom. On adjacent islands, you'll want to visit the mansions of Kasos, the brightly painted houses of Kastellorizo, and the hilltop Chora (historic center) of Astypalea, one of the prettiest fortified villages in all of Greece. For a more active Greek isles experience, retreat to Karpathos to hike or windsurf, or scuba dive amid the World War II wrecks on Leros.

On Rhodes, soak in the atmosphere at Melenos Lindos , a 17th-century building with a pebbled mosaic roof deck offering sea views, set into the hill just under the Acropolis. On Astypalaia, the island's breathtaking Chora is both the inspiration for, and the location of, Pylaia Boutique Hotel & Spa , which has a pool, spa, and ocean views from the Plori restaurant at its peak. And finally, on Patmos, overlooking the sea (and the famous Kalikatsou rock), The Petra offers luxurious suites equally convenient to the beach and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian .

Which Greek Island Should You Visit in 2024?

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with recommendations on where to stay chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveler .

Here, we've also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1 to 29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list—and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can—we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-traveled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotel options, and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best of the Greek islands for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of Milos, the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colorful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth–obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Milos Cove
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

Best of the Greek islands for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Big, fat Greek feasts

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

4. Santorini

Best of the Greek islands for: Honeymooners and first-timers

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind Santorini's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumors about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smoldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerizing views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For romance: Andronis Boutique Hotel
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

Olivia Morelli

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Best of the Greek islands for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colorful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks–one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid—with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Villa Syros sleeps 12 people

6. Folegandros

Best of the Greek islands for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favorite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at diminutive Astarti bar).

Folegandros–which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek–is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand Hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best of the Greek islands for: Antiquities, active adventures and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8 ); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda–a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs–the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the best beaches in Crete–try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat , a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: Domes Zeen Chania and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acros Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British, and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls Tuscany—but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s–now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specializes in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos–unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots–useless for farming–to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

10. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best of the Greek islands for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages–Assos and Fiskardo–didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkeling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

Best of the Greek islands for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

12. Serifos

Best of the Greek islands for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in August, you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbor, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

13. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

14. Zakynthos / Zante

Best of the Greek islands for: Seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

15. Amorgos

Best of the Greek islands for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from Athens. When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbor lined with great little fish tavernas (our favorites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers, and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best of the Greek islands for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbor towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favorite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their yachts. Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterized by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

17. Lefkada

Best of the Greek islands for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favorite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best of the Greek islands for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available–maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat—straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbor town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelized in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbor is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor

Best of the Greek islands for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi–an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favorite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best of the Greek islands for: Traveling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues, and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views–and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy–a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore–it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis–but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamor, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbor views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

23. Astypalea

Best of the Greek islands for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

24. Skiathos

Best of the Greek islands for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic–emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centered around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewelery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in Athens, Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner cocktails and The Windmill a favorite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best of the Greek islands for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harborfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches—perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

26. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci…the number of artists, designers, and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than five square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colorful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkeling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

27. Antiparos

Best of the Greek islands for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its checkered history—this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912–1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum—Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbor of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colorful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favorites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

29. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:  Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbor, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write The Magus , and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbor-front hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction), and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.

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The Perfect 7 to 10 Days in the Greek Islands Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect 7 to 10 days in the Greek islands itinerary is often top of the list for visitors to Southern Europe. Year after year, Greece tops the list of best holiday destinations in Europe. Could it be the friendly locals, the amazing cuisine, or the gorgeous islands that bring visitors back?

Of course, it’s all of the above, but Greece has so much to offer to a first-timer that it can often be confusing knowing where to start. Don’t worry we’ve got you covered with this Greek island hopping route showcasing the most iconic destinations in Greece.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Greek Islands?

With 227 inhabited Greek islands to explore, you could spend a lifetime exploring golden beaches and white-washed towns.

There are six major groups of islands in Greece, and most travellers choosing a first-time Greek islands itinerary will opt for the famous Cyclades.

Of course, the delightful Dodecanese, the iconic Ionian (like Kefalonia and Corfu ) and the sleepy Saronic islands are all worth their own trips. But ferries often link islands in the same group, so sticking to one chain will be easier and will allow you to effortlessly hop from island to island.

In my experience, 7 days in the Greek islands will serve as a snapshot into this amazing corner of the world.

But if time allows it, you should try and spend at least 10 days in the Greek islands – the sleepy villages, warm evenings and views from the ferries are intoxicating and addictive!

Getting To & Around the Greek Islands

Most visitors to Greece will arrive at Athens International Airport, the largest in the country. Get your bearings in the capital then head to the port of Piraeus, then onto the islands. Santorini and Mykonos airports also serve European arrivals in the busy summer months.

The obvious and the most iconic and idyllic way to make your way around on your island hopping route is using Greece’s extensive ferry network.

Ferries run frequently, and price affects quality and journey time. Slow boats are cheaper, but SLOW – whilst fast boats are more expensive and quicker. But note due to bad weather, fast boats generally only run during the high season.

You should book any peak-season ferries well ahead of time, tickets for fast boats can sell out well in advance. You can book ferries online here.

On the islands, public transport in peak season is quite efficient, so unless you want to get off the beaten track, you shouldn’t need your own transport. If you do decide to rent a car, you can browse options here.

7 to 10-Day Greek Islands Itinerary

So, pack your flip flops, get your best Instagram hat, and make sure your camera is charged as we’re about to embark on the ultimate Greek island hopping itinerary!

If you only have 7 days, it’s perfect for a classic Athens-Santorini-Mykonos itinerary (with a stop on another island as well). If you have 10 days, you will have more time to visit even more islands.

Day 1 – Athens

Athens, the vibrant, unorthodox, love-it-or-hate-it capital is where most Greek adventures start.

The first stop during your day in Athens is the Acropolis and exploring the sights located in the Plaka neighbourhood. Visible from across the city, with temples dating back nearly 2,400 years, the jewel in the crown is the Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the city’s namesake Athena.

Heading downhill from the Acropolis, investigate the Ancient Agora, littered with statues and ruins including the incredible temple of Hephaestus.

Exploring atmospheric Monastiraki Square will lead you down alleys to shops filled with everything as well as delightful tavernas. There are plenty of accommodation options in this area.

A must-see is the changing of the guard at the parliament. Every hour the elaborately dressed presidential guard, the Evzones, march in front of the tomb of the unknown soldier.

And if you want to explore more of the delicious Greek cuisine in Athens, then consider heading out on a street food tour of the capital.

For dinner, explore the hip Athens neighbourhood of Psiri, stopping at the delicious Lithos Tavern, before drinks at 360 Cocktail bar, with illuminated views of the Acropolis.

If you have more time in Athens, you can also opt for a day trip to Delphi or Meteora before you take the ferry to the Greek islands.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – If you’re visiting Athens on a mid-range budget then this hotel is a good option. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms on offer, a great location for seeing the highlights of the city and a terrace with beautiful panoramic views.

The Modernist Athens – Luxury travellers will love this 4-star hotel in Athens. Located in the perfect spot for exploring the highlights of the Greek capital, they have a number of bright and modern rooms available and plenty of other amenities to enjoy.

101 Adrianou Apartments – This aparthotel gives you the convenience of having your own flat while staying in Athens with the amenities of a hotel. They have a range of fully furnished apartments on offer and a location perfect for exploring the Greek capital.

City Circus Athens – This hostel is a great option for those pinching pennies in Athens (or who simply want a social atmosphere). They have both private rooms and dorms available, a great location and they organise social events for guests, as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

Day 2 – Mykonos

Start early and head to the port of Piraeus, before boarding a high-speed ferry destined for the Island of the Winds, Mykonos .

Your first stop should be to explore the beautiful main town of Chora. A maze of winding alleyways filled with shops, churches and whitewashed houses with painted shutters.

Explore the waterfront, stopping to admire the Paraportiani church, which is five separate chapels that are all built together. Look out for the island’s mascot Petros the Pelican, who can often be found taking an afternoon walk in this area.

Little Venice is full of restaurants and cocktail bars with excellent views over the water. Mykonos is a foodie heaven, but book ahead in the summer months – try M-Eating or Eva’s Garden for delicious cuisine.

There are a myriad of cute pensions and hotels in Chora, ideal for couples. If you want something more luxurious head to Elia Beach, or if you like to party stay at Paradise Beach. There are countless beautiful beaches on Mykonos so you can’t really go wrong.

Where to Stay in Mykonos

Panormos Village – This lovely hotel located on the North Coast of Mykonos is a great option for those looking for a mid-range option on the island. They have a range of wonderful rooms on offer, have breakfast included each morning and there is even a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

ELA Boutique Hotel & Spa – This boutique hotel located close to Elia Beach is fantastic for those looking for a great luxe option in Mykonos where cost isn’t a factor. They have a number of rooms available, a great terrace and breakfast served each morning.

Alissachni Mykonos – Located in the village of Psarou, this luxe hotel is perfect for those after the high life in Mykonos. There are a range of suites available, some rooms include private pools and/or hot tubs and there is breakfast available daily.

MyCocoon Hostel – Solo and budget travellers will love this hostel in Mykonos. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they also have a swimming pool and an on-site bar — perfect for making friends while island hopping in Greece!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Mykonos!

Day 3 – Mykonos

With a full day to explore, start early to discover all that Mykonos has to offer!

If history is your thing, take a guided tour of Delos. A 30-minute boat ride from Mykonos, this island is an archaeological site and is the birthplace of gods Apollo and Artemis.

A package including return boat trip, guide and ticket is well worth the cost and will take up about four hours of your day. You can  book the guided morning tour here .

If beaches are more your thing, don’t worry because Mykonos has you covered there too! The southern coast of the island has beaches for every taste – from family-friendly Ornos, to raucous Paradise Beach, and LGBTQ-friendly Super Paradise. The beaches can all be explored via the Mykonos water taxi.

Day 4 – Paros

Today we’ll be taking our foot off the gas a little and taking a morning ferry across to idyllic Paros.

You’ll arrive in Parikia, the biggest town on the island of Paros , and the most central location to stay. The town is a jumble of gorgeous alleys filled with bougainvillaea, delightful cafes to grab a frappe and seafront tavernas and bars.

Be sure to check out the mighty Ekatontapiliani – the Church of 100 Doors. This church complex is steeped in legend and rumour has it there are 99 visible doors, and one hidden door. When the hidden door is found, Constantinople will return to Greece!

Check in and then jump on the public bus over to Santa Maria Beach. This organised beach has great restaurants, watersports, excellent tunes and drinks flowing throughout the day.

Where to Say in Paros

Hotel Dina – Located in the heart of Parikia, this mid-range hotel has the perfect location for exploring all Paros has to offer. They also have a myriad of clean and comfortable rooms available and there is even free parking available if you have a car.

Paros Palace – If you’re looking for a luxury option in Paros then this plush hotel in Parikia village is an excellent choice. They have many beautiful rooms on offer and countless amenities to ensure your stay is a memorable one.

Nautilus Apartments-Suites – Those after their own space in Paros will love this aparthotel on the island. There are a number of fully-furnished flats on offer that can suit all kinds of group sizes and they have a great location for exploring the island.

Paros Backpackers – This hostel is a great option for those looking for to visit Greece on a budget. They have a range of both dorm beds and private rooms available, a swimming pool and excellent common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Paros hotels!

Day 5 – Paros

Paros has some of the clearest water in Greece, and getting out to explore the many coves & beaches is a must. Jump on an organised boat tour and head out for a day on the waves – many of the tours include a BBQ lunch onboard.

Did you know that Paros is one of Europe’s best windsurfing destinations? The east coast of the island can be very windy and is a great spot to try this fun sport.

If you fancy exploring on foot, get the small ferry over to Antiparos to check out the island’s many cave systems. More hiking opportunities can be found in the interior of Paros around the hilltop village of Lefkes, checking out Byzantine ruins, and ancient stone paths.

For dinner, you must head to the tiny fishing village of Naoussa where you can get some delicious traditional Greek cuisine. Nestled in a cove protected by a Venetian fort, you’ll find seafood tavernas all along the waterfront serving beautiful food well into the night.

Day 6 – Santorini

Heading south, today we will head off to maybe the most iconic Greek island and hop on a ferry to Santorini .

Actually an archipelago of five islands, Santorini was shaped when the original volcanic island of Strogili erupted over 3,500 years ago, leaving us with a series of smaller islands. Nearly all visitors will stay on the main island of Thera – the only other inhabited option being the laidback Thirassia.

Most travellers will stay in the capital of Fira, on the southern black sand beaches of Perissa or Kamari, or in the expensive but enchanting cave houses of the village of Oia.

Both Fira and Oia are on the caldera, the cliffs that are left from the old eruption, and you can find restaurants and cafes in both towns to gaze out at the incredible views at sunset.

Where to Stay in Santorini

Kalimera Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this family-run hotel in Santorini. Situated close to a number of sandy beaches, they have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, there’s a swimming pool and breakfast is included daily.

Seaside Breeze – This luxury hotel is a great choice for those looking for something fancy on their Greek island hopping route. They have both standard rooms and larger suites available – all with their own balcony. There is also a terrace, pool and breakfast daily for guests to enjoy.

Remezzo Villas – If you’re looking for a luxury option during your time in Santorini, then these villas are an excellent option. There are a range of suites to choose from along with a daily breakfast, swimming pool and outdoor terrace.

Caveland Hostel – Situated in a small village on the island, this hostel is perfect for those visiting Santorini on a budget. They offer both dorms and private rooms and there is even a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Santorini!

Day 7 – Santorini

Santorini has so much to explore, and if this is the final day of your 7-day Greek islands itinerary it will certainly be one to remember!

Wherever you are on the caldera, your eyes are often drawn towards the two imposing volcanoes jutting from the water. If you’re feeling active you can join a great day tour that will take you on a hike up the active Nea Kameni, and then swimming in the thermal mud springs at Palea Kameni.

Afterwards, you can take the cable car from the old port up to Fira for one last shopping trip in town to grab some unique souvenirs.

If you are heading back to Athens to end your trip, you grab a quick one-hour flight that will take you straight to Athens International Airport, thus maximising your last day in Santorini!

Day 8 – Ios

If you’re lucky enough to be continuing on for a 10 days in Greece itinerary beyond the Athens-Mykonos-Santorini route, then today it’s only a short 40-minute ferry ride to the nearby island of Ios.

A relatively unknown option compared to the likes of Mykonos and Santorini, Ios is famous in its own right. The first tourists visited in the 1960s and were hippies who camped on the beaches, stayed with locals and made makeshift homes in caves.

Now it is famous for its excellent restaurants, eclectic nightlife scene and its mix of raucous and relatively untouched beaches.

There are plenty of great value pensions in Chora, the main town, but if you want to be relaxing on the sand, then you should stay at Mylopotas Beach.

Mylopotas is a beautiful white sand beach, where you can get involved in beach volleyball, watersports, or just lounge on a hammock, iced coffee in hand and watch the world go by. You’re on holiday after all!

Where to Stay in Ios

Homer’s Inn Hotel – This cosy inn in central Ios is the perfect place for mid-range visitors to this island. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer and a great location for exploring all Ios has to offer.

Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel – Those looking for luxury will love this plush hotel. They have a number of wonderful rooms to choose from, a gorgeous pool for guests to enjoy and a location perfect for exploring the incredible island of Ios.

Hide Out Suites – These suites are perfect for those who’d like their own space on Ios. They have a range of different fully-furnished properties on offer along with an excellent location for exploring the island. There are also plenty of plush amenities for guests to enjoy.

Francesco’s – If you’re island hopping in Greece on a budget, then this hostel is a great option. They offer both dorms and private rooms, they have great common areas and a fantastic location on the island.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ios hotels!

Day 9 – Ios

Today, why not head to the interior of the island, where you can find the tomb of Homer, the poet responsible for the Iliad and the Odyssey .

Heading further afield you can find the super sleepy beaches of Magganari and Psathi where you can feel like you’re the only person on the whole of the Greek islands.

But as you are in Ios, it would be rude not to sample the nightlife. Start with some drinks at dinner, and then head into the main town around midnight – there are plenty of tiny bars dotted around the old town.

All have their own unique twist, be it Slammer, where they slam you on the head whilst wearing a crash helmet, Shush the silent disco or Coo which plays funky R&B well into the wee hours.

Day 10 – Ferry to Athens

For the final day grab a tasty brunch at Hellenic Social in the old town and then head down to the port.

Jump aboard the ferry, it’ll take around four hours on the fast boat back to Athens. Stay in Monastiraki again, and if you aren’t up for exploring too far, grab some last-minute souvenirs on Adrianou street, featuring everything from olivewood backgammon sets to beautiful artisan jewellery. 

For a relaxed experience, head to Mnisikleous street, known as the steps, where cafes and eateries have cushions and chairs right out on the street steps – it is very relaxed and bohemian.

Finish your evening with drinks at The Clumsies, one of the best cocktail bars in all of Europe – what a way to wrap up your 10-day Greek island hopping itinerary!

Have More Time?

If you are lucky enough to have more time to spend in Greece, why not extend your trip to include a visit to Greece’s largest island Crete ? This massive island is perfect for road-tripping and is dripping in culture, history and amazing beaches. Take a few days to explore Chania and Heraklion and also make sure to venture beyond these two cities.

Alternatively, you could simply visit a few more islands in the Cyclades, including loves Milos , Naxos or Sifnos. Planning a trip to these islands is a little bit more off the beaten path than some of the other islands mentioned above and are the perfect addition on any trip to Greece.

The Saronic islands are only a short ferry ride from Athens (the closest island, Aegina, is only 40 minutes from the capital), and are a far more low-key experience than some of the busier Cyclades islands.

Finally, if you have a lot more time you can visit some destinations further afield such as Corfu – where you can visit towns like Agios Giorgios and Corfu Town – Rhodes or even explore more of the Greek mainland such as the Peloponnese region.

So, there you have it, the perfect way to spend 10 days exploring the Greek islands. You’ve seen the most famous, the most beautiful, the laid back and the craziest places in the Cycladic islands. But don’t worry, you have another 223 islands to come back and explore!

Are you planning a trip to the Greek islands? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Milos Itinerary

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Rhodes Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Paros Itinerary

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

how much was the budget for a trip like this for just a couple going?

We have guides to the general prices in Greece along with specific guides to the prices in Mykonos and the prices in Santorini . Hopefully this helps you budget your trip adequately 🙂

Hello. Is this itinerary feasible for families with kids (5 and 1 year old)?

Hi Sheila, obviously it depends on your children, however, I see no reason why this wouldn’t be suitable for families with young kids 🙂

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Crete, Corfu or Kefallonia: find the perfect Greek island for you

Sep 16, 2021 • 5 min read

Enjoy a hike past cycladic Santorini houses in Oia village © Ihor_Tailwind / Getty Images / iStockphoto

Every Greek island has its own personal rhythm and delight – it's why they are such a thrilling destination to explore no matter what type of vacation you desire.

Though that trademark Greek warm welcome is present everywhere, the variety of terrain, culture and natural wonders mean that hikers, bikers, culture vultures, families and every other type of sun-seeker will find their perfect island paradise here. Our guide to the best Greek island for you will take all the stress out of booking your next trip.

Best Greek islands for sun, sea and sand

Crete – Lipsi – Kefallonia – Skiathos – Mykonos

Almost every Greek isle has great beaches, but few come with a Venetian castle, like laid-back Frangokastello Beach in southern Crete . For lapping turquoise waters, try Platys Gialos on quiet Lipsi – its gradual slope into the water makes it very child friendly. And there are few beaches more stunning than the cove at Myrtos Beach in Kefallonia  – it's renowned amongst locals and visitors alike. 

To see and be seen, take your pick from one of Skiathos’  65 beaches. Find your own perfect spot amidst the crowds at 1200m-long Koukounaries Beach or get an all-over tan on nudist-friendly Big Banana and Little Banana Beaches – both are hugely popular with the LGBTIQ+ community. If your favorite beach party is the one that never stops, then you can't leave without visiting Paradise and Super Paradise beaches on decadent Mykonos .

Best Greek islands for diving and snorkeling

Crete – Milos – Paros – Santorini

Much of Crete's coastline is a paradise for snorkeling and diving, but the sunken city of Olous near Elounda is a spectacular and relatively easy dive.  Milos has phenomenal diving face-to-face with deep-sea fish, dolphins and even monk seals.

Snorkeling is great on Paros and picturesque Santorini is renowned for the high visibility in its waters, as well as reefs teeming with life and several old shipwrecks to explore.

Best Greek islands for ancient ruins, myths and legends

Rhodes – Delos – Corfu – Patmos

Gape at Rhodes’  magnificent, walled Old Town, where the Knights of St John ruled from 1309 to 1523, and explore their quarter before visiting the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters.

Tiny Delos , accessed via Mykonos, was the mythical birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis – see ruins of shrines to the gods and explore mosaic-rich ancient dwellings. Overnight stays are forbidden, so keep a tight eye on the weather-dependent boat schedules.

After the peace and quiet of Delos, throw yourself into the bustle of  Corfu’s  Old Town and its warren of narrow streets full of lively bars, shops and restaurants. The Old Town is bookended by two fortresses that were originally built to protect the islanders from Ottoman sieges. On ethereal Patmos, visit the Monastery of St John the Theologian, and see the grotto where the saint received his apocalyptic visions and wrote the Book of Revelations .

Best Greek islands for hiking and cycling

Crete – Naxos – Evia – Thasos

The varied terrain on Greece’s biggest island, Crete, ranges from gentle plateaus dotted with windmills to canyons and mountains. Hiking the Samaria Gorge , Europe’s longest at 16km (10miles), takes you through the homeland of Crete’s famed wild goat, the kri-kri. 

Fertile Naxos boasts numerous hikes along the old paths connecting the villages of the central plain – these traverse ancient temples, Hellenistic towers and Byzantine churches and are a great option for those in search of a gentler outdoor adventure. Maps detailing a variety of walks and hikes are available to buy in local shops.

The quiet meandering roads of  Evia make for blissfully stress-free cycling and you can stretch out at a local vineyard after a day of graft. Excellent forested trails (and a popular international race) bring mountain biking aficionados to Thasos . Both islands are under the radar of most visitors and you can look forward to having beautiful beaches all to yourself when you need a rest from the road.

Best Greek islands for families with kids

Naxos – Corfu  – Crete

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and packs a lot of bang for its buck. The beaches are often quiet and have lots of activities like kite-surfing and paddle-boarding on offer. Restaurants are incredibly child friendly – you'll be welcomed to the table like long-lost family.

The old town of Corfu is a beautiful place to explore with kids and even has a miniature wooden train that runs hourly sightseeing trips – perfect for when little legs get tired. Aqualand Corfu Water Park is one of the biggest attractions in Greece for kids and is definitely worth making time to visit.

The size of Crete means you'll never run out of activities for the kids. The pink sand on Elafonissi beach in Chania will charm everyone and the shallow water in the lagoon on the western side of the beach is perfect for toddlers and young swimmers. East along the coast lies the spectacular Palace of Knossos , an unmissable historical attraction that envelopes visitors in ancient Minoan culture. Get there early to avoid the crowds.

Best Greek island for food and drink

Lesvos – Samos – Folegandros – Crete – Corfu

Lesvos is renowned for its olive oil and ouzo (it produces some 70% of all Greek ouzo). The national aperitif is served with mixed mezedhes (appetizers) at traditional ouzeries (ouzo restaurants), which blend the island’s old Turkish influences with Greek seafood specialities. Lesvos produces fine wine, as does Samos , famed for its sweet muscat dessert wine. 

The Cycladic specialities of  Folegandros  include matsata (pasta with rabbit/chicken in red sauce), astakomakaronada (lobster with spaghetti) and liokafto (sun-dried fish). Crete is famous for its olive oil and dishes like dakos (rusks topped with tomato, olive oil and cheese) and myzithra (sweet cheese, used in pastries). Horta (wild greens) provide seasoning for fish or roast lamb. Like other Ionian islands, Corfu was never successfully invaded by the Ottoman empire, and its cuisine remains Italian-flavored.

This article was first published in June 2011.

You may also like: Everything you need to know about island-hopping in Greece Unique flavors to savor when in Greece How to get around in Greece

This article was first published September 2015 and updated September 2021

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The 31 best Greek islands to visit in 2024

From the gastronomic specialties of Sifnos to the enigmatic ruins of the Dodecanese, each Greek island has its own distinct character. Choose your own adventure and discover them yourself.

From the gastronomic isles of the Cyclades to the enigmatic ruins of the Dodecanese, each of the six main Greek island groups has its own distinct character. Yet, look closely and you’ll find that more unites than sets them apart: there are secluded towns loved by local gourmands, hidden coves brimming with mythical associations and, above all, a natural splendour that’s captured the minds of artists and adventurers through the ages.  

1. Nisyros: Walk on a volcano

According to Greek mythology, it was Poseidon who seized a chunk of Kos and hurled it on top of a fiery Titan called Polyvotis — creating the volcanic island of Nisyros, with its enormous, sulphurous caldera. The volcano is active, but travellers can still walk across its warm crust — it last erupted in 1888 and is carefully monitored. It can be visited on a day trip from nearby Kos, but it’s worth sticking around to explore the island’s little capital, Mandraki, with its colourful houses and Byzantine churches; the nearby thermal spring at Loutra; and the lofty village of Emporios, with its ruined Byzantine castle, natural cave sauna and mesmerising views over the caldera.

2. Kalymnos: Reach new heights

For a long time, the island of Kalymnos was famous for one thing: sponge-diving. But in 1996, a new focus emerged, when Italian rock climber Andrea di Bari, on holiday with his family, observed the island’s towering limestone cliffs. Before long, this isle emerged as a capital for climbing. Kalymnos now has over 4,000 routes for all abilities, and companies such as Climb in Kalymnos offer dedicated beginners’ courses. But it’s not all about sports here, as the island has retained its old-world charm. Wander the ruins of the Byzantine town of Kastro, high on the mountainside, or head east to Vathys and its fjord-like valley, flanked by fragrant citrus groves.

3. Kos: Pedal the ‘bicycle island’

Greece’s ‘bicycle island’, Kos has over 6,500 bikes to hire and is also crisscrossed with cycling trails, including a new eight-mile path that takes in the coast. When Kos’s Italian colonisers departed in 1943, they left their bikes behind, which were swiftly adopted by the locals. One of the best sights to explore by bike are the ruins of Asklepion, two miles outside Kos Town and easy to reach on two wheels. In 430BC, Kos native Hippocrates, the ‘Founder of Medicine’, created this healing sanctuary, which is arranged in terraces along the hillside. But you don’t have to be a keen cyclist to enjoy Kos — the island is also generously endowed with sandy beaches, and Kos Town is known for its crusader, Ottoman and Italian architecture set beneath clouds of fuchsia bougainvillea.

4. Tilos: Wander a ghost village

For centuries, the residents of Tilos built their homes inland, safe from marauders. But in the 1950s, when the villagers of Mikro Chorio found their wells running dry, they decided to relocate to the island’s port area — taking their roofs, doors and windows with them. Until recently, the only signs that Mikro Chorio ever existed were the whitewashed church and fawn-coloured stone walls, which snake over the hillside and act as a playground for goats. Now, though, one ruined home has been renovated and turned into an atmospheric summer bar. From 11pm when it opens, a shuttle bus runs here from nearby Livadia — and the sound of chatter and clinking glasses once again fills this ghostly village.  

5. Rhodes: Explore a woodland oasis

The island of Rhodes is best known for two historic sites — walled Old Rhodes Town, built by the crusading Knights of St John; and Lindos, a pretty 15th-century sea captains’ town set beneath an ancient, vertigo-inducing acropolis. But it’s also popular for its broad, sandy beaches, and the fact it receives over 300 days of sunshine each year. If you can tear yourself away from the sea, visit Seven Springs , a refreshing woodland oasis in the north east of the island, reached by wading through a dark, 180m-long irrigation tunnel. The effort is worth it: refreshing swims, a tall waterfall and pine-shaded hiking trails await, and there’s a taverna frequented by roaming peacocks.

6. Symi: Hike through old donkey trails

Pint-sized, little-known Symi beckons day-trippers from nearby Rhodes with its neoclassical, colourful main town and the revered, frescoed Panormitis Monastery, set in a small settlement on the opposite corner of the island. Linking the two through the forested interior are some near-forgotten mule paths, which fell into disuse after a road running the length of the island was paved in the 1960s. Choose to spend a few days in Dodecanese destination and walk these storied dirt roads — at times, hardly more than a suggestion of a trail — to get to viewpoints rarely reached by foreign visitors, opening up to views of secluded coves and a promontory where the only man-made structure in sight is a solitary white church.

( Why you should go hiking in Symi, Greece . )

7. Karpathos: Travel through time

One of the Dodecanese’s highest mountains effectively divides Karpathos in two. At the island’s northern end, the remote hamlet of Olympos was isolated until 1979, when a road was built through the wild terrain. Local women still wear flowery scarves and long skirts — plus enormous necklaces of gold coins on special occasions — and they keep to many traditional ways, baking bread in communal ovens and embroidering textiles. Stay overnight here, in a cosy apartment at Irene’s House or Olympos Archipelagos , with its sea views, to get a feel for Olympos’s old-world magic, and don’t miss a traditional laouto (lute) performance in the taverna.  

8. Lefkada: Set sail for the islets

Mountainous, wooded Lefkada, with its craggy coast, was a late-comer to tourism, so it can feel more authentically Greek than some of the most popular isles. And for those dreaming of sailing the islands, its port of Nydri is the best place to start: sheltered from winds, its bay is scalloped with secluded coves and its own archipelago of emerald islets. You can hire anything from a licence-free dinghy up to a large sailing yacht here, with which you can explore the secret inlets.  

9. Paxos: Jump into the blue

Renting boats, whether solo or with a skipper, is something you can do on stretches of most Greek islands. But the size of Pazos, a seven-mile by two-and-a-half-mile blot off the south coast of Corfu, means it can be circled in its entirety in just a few hours. This makes it perfect for beach-hopping and the chance to discover a number of Greece’s most secluded coves — some lined with olive and cypress trees, others barely wide enough for a couple of towels, all lapped by inviting, crystal-clear water. Summer days in this corner of the Ionian are mostly spent dropping anchor at whichever one takes your fancy, stretching out beneath the sun on the deck, then cooling off by diving straight into the water.

( Why you should try beach-hopping by boat around Paxos, Greece .)

10. Corfu: Head for the hills  

With its Venetian-style capital and sandy beaches, Corfu is one of Greece’s most-visited islands. It’s worth heading for the hills here. Old Perithia , the island’s highest village, was founded in the 14th century, but by the 1950s its inhabitants had left, leaving only a taverna for hikers. In 2010, a couple from the UK fell in love with the village, buying a property (now a boutique B & B ) and kicking off its slow restoration. Today, it’s a riot of wildflowers in spring.    

11. Zakynthos: See the blue caves  

This is an island of white-sand beaches, but its north coast, with sheer cliffs rising out of the sea, is truly spectacular. The best-known precipices surround ‘Shipwreck Beach’, where a rusting cargo ship rests, slowly sinking into sands — though it’s currently only accessible to view from afar due to the risk of landslides. Other cliffs help form the Blue Caves, a labyrinth of pale rock that reflects the shimmering electric blue of the waters. Boats can enter the largest cave, where you can dive in for full immersion.

12. Kefalonia: Kayak secret coves

The biggest Ionian island, mountainous and green like a vast turtle’s shell, is surrounded by cliffs and coves — including the deep blue Melissani Cave on the east coast — and many of them are only accessible from the sea. In a kayak , you can paddle between the beaches at leisure, or embark on a longer guided trip, staying in inns on the way. For a challenge of a different kind, drive 1,628m up Mount Ainos, the highest peak in the area, for an eagle’s-eye view of the Ionians.  

13. Samothraki: Meet the Great Gods

Samothraki, in the far northeast Aegean, is a small island with a mythical past. The Greek sea god Poseidon is said to have sat on Mount Fengari here — at 1,664m, the second highest in the Aegean — to watch the Trojan War, while in ancient times, numerous pilgrims would make the difficult voyage here to worship at the Sanctuary of the Cabeiri, or Great Gods. Now in ruins, this temple complex was home to a mystery religion, and very little is known about its secret rites. Anyone, from kings to slaves, could be initiated, and historical figures are thought to have been members — among them Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. After, head to the village of Therma, a 10-minute drive along the coast to the east, for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls so bucolic, you’d almost expect to come across a nymph.  

14. Lemnos: Explore a Greek desert  

It can be difficult to believe that, in among the pretty harbour towns, the Greek islands are also home to one of Europe’s only deserts. Pachies Ammoudies, on Lemnos, one of the largest islands, resembles the Sahara on a smaller scale, its soft dunes constantly shifting with the wind. The best way to explore it is by hiring a 4WD in the capital, Myrina, and heading out at dawn or dusk, when the sand takes on an orange glow. Myrina itself was named after the Queen of the Amazons — the   island is believed to have once been the home of the warrior women visited by the Argonauts — and you can spend hours exploring its traditional coffeeshops and colourful harbour. Also don’t miss the ruins of Poliochni, a settlement thought to be older than nearby Troy on the Turkish mainland.

15. Ikaria: Dance until dawn  

Ikaria, in the far east of the Aegean, is closer to Izmir in Turkey than Athens. It is known for lying in a Blue Zone — an area where people have a longer, healthier life expectancy — with about one in three living into their 90s. The list of potential reasons is long, ranging from the healthy local diet to the lack of stress, but visit this island between May and September, and it’s likely you’ll discover one more — nobody wants to miss the next paniyiri. The island’s saint’s day festivals happen almost daily in different villages. Fuelled by the island’s heady natural wine, they involve all ages dancing in unison together — placing their hands on each other’s shoulders and spiralling in time to traditional violins. When you’re partying until dawn, it can be easy to lose all track of time.

16. Lesbos: Discover the ouzo effect  

Ouzo, Greece’s favourite anise-flavoured spirit, is largely produced on Lesbos, with its traditional villages and gnarled olive groves, where 16 dedicated distilleries work to make over half of the national supply. And for fans of the spirit, Plomari, on the south coast, shines like the North Star — it’s here that travellers can find the Ouzo Museum , and learn about the drink’s history and the variety of Greek herbs that go into making it, alongside tours of the copper stills. Each brand is different, and some are difficult to find beyond the island, so it’s also where you’ll find the best opportunities for tastings. Order with water on the side to observe the famous ‘ouzo effect’ — despite both liquids being clear, when combined the result turns milky-white.  

17. Santorini: Sip volcanic wines

This island may be best known for its vertiginous villages on the edge of the caldera, but it’s also one of Greece’s top wine producers. Because of its volcanic soil, Santorini was spared from the lice epidemic that decimated Europe’s vineyards in the 19th century, and its indigenous white grapes, Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani, flourish, their vines pruned to resemble baskets to protect them from the wind. The resulting wine is bone dry and mineral rich — but you can also find the naturally sweet Vinsanto here, made from sun-dried grapes to produce a tipple that was popular in the Middle Ages. Try both kinds at the Santo , the island’s largest cooperative in Pyrgos. Or visit the organic Hatzidakis estate, located inside a cave.    

18. Syros: Listen to Greek blues

Rebetiko, known as the Greek blues and often featuring soulful lyrics on migration, poverty, misfortune and unrequited love, has roots in the years of mass unemployment following the Greece-Turkey Population Exchange in 1923. One of the genre’s greatest composers, Markos Vamvakaris, came from Ermoupoli on Syros, and live performances still ring out from bars on balmy nights here, especially during the summer Rebetiko Festival. Visit Ermoupoli itself, the neo-classical capital of the Cyclades, with its Catholic and Orthodox hilltop neighbourhoods, marble-paved Miaoulis Square and opera house. Don’t miss its speciality loukoumia (Turkish delight), introduced to the island by refugees from the then-Ottoman ruled islands of Chios and Psara.

19. Sifnos: Cook like a Greek

Sifnos is where the father of modern Greek cuisine, Nikolaos Tselementes, was born in 1878. The island’s specialities are worth looking out for, with chickpea stews and braised lamb mastelo still slow cooked in the traditional way in stoneware pots. Learn some of the island’s recipes by helping to prepare a typical meal at Narlis Farm , just outside Apollonia, where farmers have produced organic fruit and vegetables for generations according to traditional Cycladic methods, using very little water. Sifnos is exceptionally pretty, with the whitewashed villages Apollonia, Artemonas and Kastro, sandy beaches with seaside churches, and landscapes dotted with chapels, crisscrossed by miles of trails.

20. Tinos: Embark on a food weekend

In recent years, Cycladic Tinos has become famous among Greeks as an island of gastronomy. Blessed with fertile land and a resulting bounty of locally grown produce, it’s a magnet for chefs from nearby Athens, who’ll often leave their city restaurants in the warmer months to head here. Tinos Food Paths, a festival of gastronomy celebrated each year in the second week of May, marks the beginning of the season of indulgence. Come to join in the summer feast: start the morning sipping silty Greek coffee with a crispy filo pastry; recharge mid-afternoon with an acai bowl of wild strawberries; and round the day up trying local specialities, from fourtalia — a fluffy omelette made with potatoes — to louza , the island’s spice-cured pork.

( How to plan a food weekend on the Greek island of Tinos . )

21. Milos: Stay in a syrmata  

Volcanic Milos is an island of colour, with rock formations in shades of red, yellow and blinding white. Similarly bright doors and windows adorn its traditional syrmata — the huts found only around Milos and neighbouring Kimolos, carved into the soft volcanic cliffs by fishermen sheltering their boats for the winter. Some have been converted into quirky places to stay — a bit cramped, with just a bed and bathroom, but right on the water’s edge. On land, seek out the catacombs (the only ones on a Greek island), the ancient theatre and the replica of the Venus de Milo, marking the spot where the original was found.

22. Naxos: Find the marbles

Fine, white marble has been quarried and sculpted on Naxos since prehistoric times; the archaeology museum , in the Venetian castle on top of Naxos Town, is packed with remarkably well-preserved marble Cycladic idols from 3200-2300 BCE, smoothed with the island’s native emery. Elsewhere on the island, giant kouros (naked male youth) statues, carved in the 6th century BCE, were abandoned when flaws in the marble were discovered: today, two lie near the quarries in Apollonas. Naxos has a relaxed and family-friendly vibe, with walking trails and swathes of sand south of Naxos Town.

23. Agistri: Snorkel in clear coves

Less than an hour from Athens’ port city of Piraeus, Agistri is the smallest of the inhabited Saronics. Surrounded by twinkling waters, its pine trees cling to the cliffs that curl around its mainly pebbly beaches. Aim for the little peninsula of Aponisos, with its turquoise coves perfect for snorkelling, just a short bus ride from Skala and Megalochori, Agistri’s main towns. Or head out with Interdive and sail in its traditional wooden ship to the uninhabited islet of Dorousa, whose fish-rich waters and shipwrecks are exciting terrain for experienced divers.

24. Poros: Wander in a lemon forest  

Poros is so close to the Peloponnese that the 400-metre-wide channel separating the two is nicknamed Greece’s Grand Canal. A favourite past time in pretty Poros Town is lingering in a waterfront taverna and watching all the ships pass by, including ferries zipping across to Galatas, a port town on the mainland. Near there is a lemon forest that becomes intoxicating in May, when the trees are in bloom and the citrusy scent drifts across the channel on the breeze. For a perfect day out, hike up to the pretty blue-and-white clocktower in Poros Town for views over the lemon forests.  

25. Spetses: Get to know Bouboulina

Thought to be the world’s first female admiral, Laskarina Bouboulina, who grew up in Spetses, raised a small fleet during the Greek War of Independence in the 1820s and won Greece’s first naval battle aboard her flagship, Agamemnon. Her bronze statue stands near the harbour, and now her descendants run the charming Bouboulina Museum in her former mansion — where she was assassinated in a family dispute. Pine-clad Spetses later became the summer retreat of wealthy Athenians and, in 1914, was the first Greek island to get a hotel, the luxurious Poseidonion Grand Hotel , which still dominates the harbour today. The rest of the waterfront, still bristling with cannons, is filled with neoclassical former captains’ mansions, villas, black-and-white pebble mosaics and horse-drawn carriages. Visitors can cycle to the beaches — many sandy — and later dine in the bars and restaurants in the Old Harbour.

26. Aegina: Trace ancient Greece

Outside of Athens, surviving ancient peristyle temples are rare in Greece, but you can find a beautiful one just an hour from Piraeus by ferry — the Temple of Aphaia, on Aegina. Isolated on a pine-covered hill overlooking the island’s biggest beach resort, Agia Marina, the temple was built around 500 BCE — decades before the Parthenon. Sadly, like the Parthenon, it was stripped of its marble friezes by antiquarians, inspired by Elgin, who shipped them to Munich. Aegina has many other feathers in its cap: pretty Aegina Town, the first capital of Greece, where the scent of roasting pistachios fills the air. A remnant of this can be explored at the Archaeological Site of Kolona nearby, which contains the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and a neighbouring archaeology museum. The ruins of another former capital, Byzantine Paleochora, can be found to the east above Agios Nektarios, one of the biggest churches in Greece, built for the most recent Greek Orthodox saint, who died in 1920.  

At first sight, looming into view as the ferry approaches its harbour, Hydra might seem like any other Greek island: fluttering white-and-azure flags, whitewashed houses, busy tavernas. Except the B & B owners who gather beside its dock, ready to pick up visitors and whisk them to their premises, don’t wait in their cars, like they would elsewhere. This mountainous island, off the east coast of the Peloponnese, is entirely pedestrian. Even bicycles are banned, thanks to a 1950s law that sought to keep it as it’s always been — a labyrinth of alleys to be explored on foot, by boat or, better yet, in the saddle. As you discover hilltop monasteries, cliffs paths and sandy beaches, you’ll find it’s a destination where the journey really does make the experience.

( How to explore the car-free island of Hydra, Greece . )

28. Skopelos: Hike wildflower trails

The emerald sea reflects the pine trees covering Skopelos, a serene island of pebble-strewn coves that’s great for walks and views. Near the town of Skopelos, piled high in the shadow of a Venetian castle, wildflower-dotted trails lead to six Byzantine monasteries on Mount Palouki. You can also hike to the Sedoukia, a collection of Neolithic tombs, or to the wedding chapel of Agios Ioannis — of Mamma Mia! film fame — perched high on a rock overlooking the sea near the island’s second town, Glossa.

29. Skyros: Meet Skyrian horses

Isolated from its sisters, Skyros has a whitewashed capital, Chora, that curls around a castle-crowned crag overlooking a vast beach. The northern half of the island is wooded, while the wild, rocky south is where a few of the last little Skyrian horses roam. Introduced in the fifth century BCE by Athenian colonists and isolated ever since, they’re the descendants of the horses depicted in the Parthenon Marbles. With only around 200 left, they’re one of the rarest breeds in the world.

30. Skiathos: Hit the beach

Cosmopolitan Skiathos, beside Skopelos, owes its popularity to its 62 beaches, which offer a stretch of sand for every taste. Koukounaries and Vromolimnos are best for watersports, while Aselinos is ideal for those after a quieter time, with just a few places to eat. Lalaria, meanwhile, is spectacular and silvery, and Kechria, with its sunbeds amid the olive trees, is perfect for a lazy afternoon punctuated by lunch in the taverna. As the sun sets, pretty, fun-loving Skiathos Town buzzes into life.

31. Alonnisos: Enjoy aquatic adventures

From May to October, boats head out on day trips to explore the waters off Alonnisos, which is part of Europe’s largest marine park. Here, endangered monk seals are protected along with dolphins and over 80 species of bird. Experienced divers can tour the ‘Parthenon of shipwrecks’, a fifth-century BCE vessel laden with amphoras that sunk off the coast of nearby islet Peristera and now forms the core of Greece’s first underwater museum .  

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Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

The Best Greek Islands Travel Guide – The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping The Greek Islands

Last Updated March 28, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Guides » The Best Greek Islands Travel Guide – The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping The Greek Islands

The beautiful sandy beaches, coastal coves, and white-washed villages are what make legendary vacations. If it’s your first time here, it can be overwhelming. Covering multiple seas and thousands of islands, planning a Greek island hopping trip isn’t as straightforward without some research, especially if you plan on island hopping. This Greek Islands travel guide is a must-read for anyone heading there soon, there is also useful information that will be helpful to discover the best Greek Islands to visit for the first time

Let’s dig into the practical things you might already be making plans for, suggest a few things you may not have already thought of, and let’s delve deeper.

Read more about Greece

• 14 day itinerary Greek Island hopping in the Western Cyclades
• Athens 2 day itinerary
• How to get from Athens to Santorini
• Is Santorini worth it?
• Read more Greece travel tips

TOP TIPS FOR THE GREEK ISLANDS

• Where to stay – Our two favorite properties on our island hopping adventure were Prekas Apartments in Santorini and Giannoulis Hotel in Milos where one had epic views and the other just blew our expectations in terms of comfort and space. We used Booking.com for all of our stays. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Car rentals – Rent a car to get around the Greek Islands. Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
• Ferries – You will need to use ferries for island hopping. Get your tickets and check ferry schedules using Ferries in Greece .
• Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to Greece!
• Insurance – Make sure you’re covered for all of your adventure activities with the best travel insurance .
• Hottest deals – Never be without our frequently updated travel deals page .

The Best Greek Islands Travel Guide

This Greek Islands travel guide will primarily focus on The Cyclades Islands, but it will also have information relevant for those planning trips to the whole Greek Archipelago, which spans 6,000 islands and takes up 7,500 km of the country’s 16,000 km coastline.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• 1€ EUR = $1.11 USD = $1.45 CAD
• ATMs can be found all over and the credit cards are widely accepted
• SIM card – The three main companies in Greece are COSMOTE ,  Vodafone, and WIND .  All companies have some sort of pre-paid package available.  Some are more aggressive about promoting in Athens with street stands but others you have to visit a shop for.  As an example, Vodafone offers 9.2GB for 20 EUR or 4GB for 10 EUR on top of minutes.
• Alternative data options – Airalo is what we used in Greece because eSIMs are so easy nowadays.  Make sure to use our code WILLIA9500 to save $3 USD.
• Measurement system  – Metric
• Tipping – Not a strong culture of tipping but is expected in the service industry. In general 10% is the rule of thumb.
• L anguage – The official language is Greek .

Back to the top

Greek Islands geography

There are at least 6,000 islands in Greece scattered throughout two different seas. To grasp how wide it spans, you need to know the breakdown of these islands and the clusters that form this stunning archipelago.

In this free Greece travel guide we break it down between the two seas that are involved: Aegean and Ionian.

In the image below the boxes give you an idea of some of a few of the clusters of islands that you can visit in Greece.

The Northeastern Aegean Islands – Agios Efstratios, Thasos, Ikaria, Lesbos, Limnos, Inouses, Samos, Samothrace, Chios, Psara.

The Sporades Islands – Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros.

Evia – The island of Evia is the second largest Greek island after Crete and is also known by its ancient name of Euboea. Its close proximity to Athens on mainland Greece makes it a popular destination for the residents of Athens. It is bordered by the region of Viotia, (latinized as Boeotia or Beotia) to the east, with the south touching the Aegean Sea, before spreading into the Evian Gulf.

Islands of Argosaronic – Angistri, Aegena, Methana, Poros, Salamina, Spetses, Hydra.

The Cyclades – By far the largest island group with a total of 56 islands, the most important ones being Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Syros, Folegandros and several others, as well as the ‘Minor Cyclades’ comprising Donousa, Irakleia, Koufonisia and Schinousa.

The Dodecanese – Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos, Chalki.

Crete – Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is divided into four prefectures: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi.

The Ionian Sea is to the west of mainland Greece, and while they may not be as famous as the ones in the Aegean Sea, they are equally beautiful and are often visited more by the local Greeks.

The Ionian Islands – Zakynthos, Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxi, and Kythira

From here, it breaks down into smaller islands – Antipaxi, Ereikoussa, Kalamos, Kastos, Mathraki, Meganissi, Othoni, Skorpios, and Strofades.

There are a few groups of smaller islands that don’t really belong anywhere, including the islands of Gavdos (situated south of Crete), Elafonissos (in the Gulf of Laconia), and Trizonis (in the Gulf of Corinth).

Which islands to visit

How do you choose which is the “best Greek island to visit”?  We wanted to start with a few baseline itineraries.  First we checked out the Greece travel itineraries of G Adventures and Intrepid Travel to get a few ideas to form our own Greek Islands travel guide.

To help you through that thought process we broke down how we ended up here in our 14 day Greece island hopping itinerary :

• Decide which sea you want to do – Ionian or Aegean?
• For a trip spanning 2 weeks, pick a cluster to focus on. Jumping between island groups makes ferries complicated, distances long, and time wasted. You want to optimize the time you have with minimal transport so you can spend precious time exploring and soaking up the islands.
• If there’s a specific island you want to visit, for instance Santorini, skip steps #1 and #2. It also helps to know whether Santorini is worth visiting , read that alongside this Greek Islands travel guide.
• Divide your number of trip days by 3. That’s how many islands to visit without rushing your way through. For example on our 14 day trip we could only fit in 4 islands comfortably. You could try to fit in more if you were really ambitious. Our guide how many days in Santorini you need should help give you an idea of how to gauge your time in each place.
• Research blog posts and look at photos. Here, we committed to visiting 2 popular islands and 2 lesser known ones of Greece .

With this guide and content created for your Greece travel, we hope it’ll make your trip planning easier.

BEFORE YOU CONTINUE 

You need to read the the full 14 day Greek island hopping itinerary to get an idea of how to plan and choose the right islands in the Western Cyclades. Read that after this Greek Islands travel guide.

2 Week Greek Islands Itinerary

Getting there

For our trip, we focused on how to get from Athens to Santorini , but for a more general look, you should learn about flying vs. ferry.

Greece’s primary international airport is Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH). It’s your main way in and out of the country coming from an international destination.

As the capital of Greece, flying into Athens makes sense. If it’s your first time you should make some time to explore the city.  It is also home to the ports that will take you down to the Western Cyclades area of the Greek Islands.

Not all islands have airports, but the larger ones do, including Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos and a few more. So if you can fly into these airports easily you can start your trip from one of these before moving onto your next destination.

There are direct flights to Santorini!   From Europe you can grab one from Thessaloniki, Naples, Rome, Venice, Milan, Barcelona, Prague, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, and London.

Once in Greece, the main national carriers are Aegean and Olympic Air. RyanAir is a discount carrier that also services Athens and Santorini. We recommend using Skyscanner or the Skyscanner app to find the best prices on flight tickets.

When visiting the Greek Islands, you’ll likely fly in via Athens. If time is tight and cost is no issue, fly into Santorini and then fly out of another island with an airport. Then you’ll likely be taking ferries in between the islands.

The primary way to get around to the Greek Islands is by ferry. It’s not the fastest, but they run frequently, and they hit islands you can’t fly to. They also do run somewhat on time so you can plan your travel between islands fairly accurately.

Traditionally, visiting the Greek Islands means starting in Athens and island hopping with ferries exclusively. This is the most cost-effective method but takes time because the trip from Athens to any island is usually going to be your longest leg. Ferries function like buses and stop at multiple islands, they’re usually on time but delays and cancellations can sometimes happen.

Ferry companies

There are a number of ferry companies out there that operate between the islands and the mainland.  The main ones that are relevant for The Cyclades are Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, Golden Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways and Aegean Speedlines. For the rest you can find out more information here .

Ferry itinerary

When planning your island hopping itinerary, using a tool like Ferries in Greece makes things easier.  We dub this tool the “Skyscanner of ferries.” You can basically enter in the itinerary as you would a flight search tool, and it’ll give options and prices to choose from.

Use this Ferry Planning Tool

FerryHopper allows you to find out what ferry companies are operating to and from Santorini. We recommend using this to help with trip planning.

• Are there any discounts? – We found that if you aren’t a local or able to take advantage of a large pass, there weren’t any codes or promotions to take advantage of but it never hurts to check.
• Can you save money staying with one ferry line? – Even if you do a multi-leg journey, there are no discounts or reasons to use one particular line but you can also jump around between different companies. You don’t need to stick to one.
• Is there a point in waiting to book ferries? – Only if you’re still unsure of your plan. Once you have that there’s no point in waiting. Ferry prices don’t drop if you book last minute and you don’t want your specific route to sell out, which in peak seasons can easily happen well in advance. Make sure to use Ferries in Greece to get organized as soon as you have your plans confirmed.

Getting the ferry from Athens: Piraeus vs. Rafina

In Athens there are two ports:

• Located to the east of Athens
• Closest to the city center of the two ports
• There is a convenient direct bus from Athens Airport
• Takes 30-40 minutes to get here from Athens Airport by bus
• No metro options to get to Rafina
• Fewer ferries run from this port
• Bus from the airport costs 4 EUR
• Located to the south west of Athens
• Primary port from Athens
• There are more ferry route options that operate from here
• Various different options to get to Piraeus (bus, bus + metro, metro)
• Takes one to 1.5 hours to get here from Athens Airport by bus
• Bus from the airport costs 6 EUR

Taking the bus from Rafina

The Rafina bus is privately-run and the location isn’t where you may expect compared to the bus to Piraeus.  The bus is located right across from the Mitsis Hotel at the airport, between Exits 2 and 3 where you’ll first cross the street. 

The bus schedule can be found here .  Note that this bus is not 24 hours, so check the schedule based on your flights. Credit card is accepted for booking.

Taking the bus from Piraeus

If you’re headed to Piraeus, look for public bus number X96.  The ride is about an hour and the full schedule is here .  This bus runs 24 hours.

Note that public buses on the arrival level are easy to find because all signs for public transportation will point you that way.

You can purchase your tickets at the booth and you are also able to pay by credit card.

Boarding and disembarking ferries

Every ferry company is slightly different because each ship is constructed and run differently. But there are general similarities that you can expect from boarding to disembarking.

On most islands there is a waiting area at the port where they have divided columns.  Sometimes they’re labeled with the right ferry route and times but usually it’s not that organized . If in doubt, ask other people if you’re in the right place.  Some waiting areas are just an open lounge and someone will yell out the next ferry when it comes in.  Sometimes there’s no covered waiting area at all and you just find a random place to sit. This is all part of the charm of Greek island hopping!

As the boat arrives, everyone seems to automatically know to start a queue and the attendant lets you know when it is your turn to board.

Boarding – Once the ramp is down, cars and passengers that are arriving at the port exit first. Then they’ll call everyone waiting to board to walk up the ramp and put your luggage on the racks available in the cargo/car hold.  There’ll be stairs on the left and right heading up to the main deck of the ship and there’ll be someone scanning tickets there.  After that, head up and grab a seat or watch the action from the open rear of the ship.

Disembarking – When the ferry is close to the destination port, they’ll make an announcement for everyone to gather in the cargo hold.  You’ll then head back downstairs and grab your luggage.  Once the ramp drops down, the crew will be yelling and ushering for everyone to quickly get off.  So make sure you are organized and move fast!

About Piraeus

The boarding process is a little different in Piraeus because of its massive size and all of the unloading is done on arrival so they’re waiting for you to board.  There’s no luggage held down below.  Instead, you bring your luggage to the cabin and store it in shelving areas.  These are relatively safe but we recommend dropping by your cabin when the boats start docking to make sure nobody takes their chances during disembarking.

Your ferry ticket will have a specific gate you need to go to so account for time to figure out where that is.   If you take a look at the map below, the subway is closest to E5 and E6.

• Gate E1 – Ferries for Dodecanese Islands (Rhodes, Kos, Kastelorizo, Kos etc) – Blue Star Ferries / Superfast Ferries
• Gate E2 – Ferries for North Aegean Islands (Lesvos, Chios, Samos) (Blue Star Ferries & Hellenic Seaways)
• Gate E3 – Ferries for Crete. (Minoan, Anek, and Blue Star Ferries)
• Gate E4 – Ferries for Crete and other small islands such as V.Kornaros and Prevelis
• Gate E5-E6 – Blue Star Ferries for Cyclades
• Gate E7 – Speedrunner, Highspeed 4& 6, and Nissos Mykonos
• Gate E8 – Ferries for Saronic Islands, catamarans and hydrofoils
• Gate E9 – SeaJets and Zante Ferries (E10 is the exit, E9 is the entrance)
• Gate E11 & Gate E12 – Cruise ships gates, only for passengers of the cruise ships.

Onboard experience

• Bringing food onboard – They didn’t seem strict on outside food at all so feel free to bring your own picnic.
• Assigned seats – Seats are automatically assigned with ticket purchase.  For the less-crowded inter-island ferries, nobody checks your tickets for your assigned seats.  They usually don’t care if you move somewhere else within the same class.
• Electrical outlets – There weren’t any by our seats.
• Bathrooms – Several onboard and we found all of them to be pretty clean.

• Announcing stops – There are announcements made in Greek and English so it’s clear what the next port is even if your Greek isn’t quite up to scratch.
• WiFi –  Many offer paid wifi.  On Golden Star Ferries it’s 3.50 EUR for 3 hours.
• Those that get sea sick easily –  My wife gets sea-sick quite easily and she did okay for most ferries because the water was relatively calm.  If this is an issue, sit on the outside rear deck for fresh air and the ability to focus on the horizon. You can also prepare with dramamine and sea sickness bands if you tend to suffer.
• Upgrading classes –  The business-class section always had their own deck or closed off area but all we saw was that they had access to somewhat larger seats, maybe a window and a table if that’s important to you.  For the longer distance ferries, some have cabins. This might be worth booking to get some sleep if your ferry is overnight.

Ferry Travel Tips:

• They run the AC pretty high inside the boat so make sure you have a jacket or sweater on-hand. Something light and packable like this is good to always have in your backpack .
• There is no access to the front of the ships, so you can only be outdoors if you stand on the rear deck.
• Set an alarm on your phone if you think you’re going to sleep.  The disembarking process is very swift and you don’t want to miss it or be in a rush and forget to grab all your belongings.
• Make sure the phone number you put on your booking is the actual phone number you’re going to have when you are in Greece.  We know that’s hard for those wanting to pick up a local SIM, which is why something like Airalo actually makes more sense because you know your number when you land.  Ferry companies do send out SMS to let people know about delays, changes in schedule, and cancellations so it is really helpful to make sure your phone number is correct.
• Ferries are sometimes on time but not always.  For us, some ferries were pretty on the dot, and others showed up 15 minutes late. Make sure you don’t plan your schedule to be so tight that you can’t absorb any delays.

Checking in online vs printing your tickets

What you’ll find different from flying versus taking a ferry is that the technology hasn’t advanced very far in Greece.

You can purchase all of your ferry tickets online, but only a few companies have a way of checking in online.  One of them is Golden Star Ferries .  This was a pleasant surprise because we were able to check in weeks in advance and have tickets with a QR code printed.

Other companies use old-fashioned printed tickets which need to be picked up.  You have to go to very specific offices to have these tickets printed.  Plan around visiting the designated offices for the ferry tickets you don’t have.  They usually have one by the port but don’t expect it to be the official ferry company.  Instead, they partner with third-party travel agencies so make sure to read the instructions to collect your tickets.

As an example, we took Blue Star Ferries to Paros and Golden Star Ferries to Santorini. Our last set of ferries was with SeaJets and we didn’t get a chance to go to one of their offices to have physical tickets printed.  In Santorini, the SeaJets partner is Nomikos Travel in Fira so we made sure to drop by our first day.  Note that these offices charge 0.50 EUR per ticket .  We aren’t sure if all agencies have this extra surcharge but it is something to keep in mind.

All of this is to say that you need to have physical ferry tickets in hand, whether they be digital or physical. When you book your ferry tickets with Ferries in Greece you can then arrange where to pick up each set of tickets you need.

BOOK YOUR FERRIES

Getting from Athens to Santorini

We found there to be a lot of intricacies when it came to our trip from Athens to Santorini . Be sure to read our full guide if this is part of your itinerary.

The main question you’ll have is – is it better to fly or take the ferry? All of that gets answered here .

You need to read the 14 day Greek island hopping itinerary if you’re having trouble figuring out which islands you should visit and honest feedback on how it all went.

Getting around the Greek Islands

When visiting the Greek Islands, you’ll want to explore.  Luckily most islands aren’t overwhelmingly large, however, you can’t walk everywhere you might want to.

Unless you plan on exclusively staying at your resort, you’ll need to plan on which days you need a vehicle and note what type .

The challenge you’ll face is deciding whether you should rent a traditional car or an ATV.  Scooters are also available but we wouldn’t recommend them unless you ride them frequently or have a ton of experience. Some of the roads are pretty basic and other drivers are likely more comfortable with the terrain and route, making it a hotspot for inexperienced riders having accidents.

The tried and true method of getting around the island.  Car rental companies are everywhere and the process to rent them is simple.

Depending on your requirements (having a larger group of people, moving luggage, comfort, experience, etc.), the car may be your only choice.  With a car, you know what you’re getting and on most islands, all the places you’ll go are paved so there’s no issues getting around.

If Santorini is in your plans, check out this guide on where and how to rent a car in Santorini .

Pro:  Fits more than 2 people, protects from the sun, stays cool with air condition, spacious and can transport more things.

Con:   May not be as capable, or even possible, when it comes to off-road, uses slightly more gas and is less exciting than the alternative of an ATV. If you’re staying in old town areas the roads may not be accessible for cars.

Tips:  

• You need an international driver’s license .  Yes, this is an absolute must.
• Ask about insurance and know your coverage.
• When renting a car, make sure to ask for your transmission of preference because they will assume manual if you don’t say anything.
• Ask for recommendations on how much gasoline you should fill in the tank based on where you’re going and how many days.
• Most cars you will rent in Greece are never full so there’s always the worry about whether you’ll have enough and how much to fill off the bat.  You will need a lot less than you think.   As an example, in Paros we filled up to the max from 3 ticks down on the gauge and after 2 days we barely used one tick.  Filling up 48 EUR was a big mistake because 10 EUR would’ve been enough.
• What you see listed by a car rental company isn’t always the price they offer.  There’s always an element of negotiation or they would just offer up automatic discounts.  Yes, this may have been because we were in Greece during low-season but never be shy about asking for a discount.  The fluidity of the price is why some car rental companies didn’t even allow me to take photos of their pricing sheet.
• Discounts can only be had if you pay by cash.
• During low season, reservations don’t seem to be necessary but would recommend it during high season.
• With a car, you can take advantage of the extra storage by loading up on supplies at the grocery store.
• You might not need the car every day so plan your itinerary in a way where you only need it for a grouping of days to save money.
• Think about whether it makes sense to rent from the port or not.  It’s advantageous for those wanting a round trip rental from the point you get off the ferry to when you need to get on it again.  Alternatively, some car rental companies allow you to pick up a car from one place and drop it off at the port.  These are called one-way rentals and some have a minimal charge for it and others might add a significant fee.

We don’t know any other place in the world where ATVs are this prevalent but it’s totally a “thing” on the Greek Islands.  You’ll see them everywhere and be tempted to try it.

If there are two of you, and at least one is comfortable with driving an ATV, it’s a fun way to get around any island.  They are incredibly handy when it comes to going off-road and in tight spaces because they are much smaller and more capable of handling all types of terrain.

The disadvantage is storage space.  You’ll need to make sure your items can be strapped onto the vehicle or fit inside the storage compartment.  We had lots of camera gear and things were tight but we managed to fit it.

If you’re not totally confident in driving an ATV on your own but still want to try the thrill of it, try this guided ATV tour through Santorini to get the hang of it while enjoying sights, local foods and wines along the way

We recommend trying the ATV on an island that has less traffic and large roads, such as Santorini, Milos or Paros, so you can get comfortable with driving around, especially if it’s your first time.

Pros:  Off-road capabilities, great on tight turns (a factor in Milos ), uses less gasoline and loads of fun!

Cons:   Minimal storage space, no cover from the sun, learning curve to learn how to drive, not as safe as a car and no AC.

ATV Travel Tips:

• You need an international driver’s license !
• Test the ATV and make sure that brakes work well before you leave the lot.
• Ask for a bungee cord if one isn’t provided to strap things to the front of the ATV.
• Similar to the car, most rental companies will offer discounts, especially during low season.
• The rear passenger on the ATV will be responsible for navigating by your phone’s GPS.
• Bring a sun hat and plenty of sun protection if you are visiting in the summer months. It is really easy to burn while cruising around in your ATV and you won’t feel it until you stop.
• Are ATVs easy to drive?  It’s quite easy to drive because it’s automatic.  You’ll just have to get used to making sure you hold the brake handle down when changing from Park to Drive and getting out of the habit of having your right foot rest on the secondary brake.
• Do you need more power than 170CC?   We drove all over the island with our 170CC ATV and had no issues when off-road and climbing hills.
• How much fuel should I fill up for 2 days?   On an island like Folegandros , we only used a fifth tank of fuel in two days.

Local buses

Every island has their own bus system – some better than others.  It’s an economical option and possible to travel exclusively by bus.

The challenge you’ll face is you’ll be at the whim of their schedules and routes.  It’ll get you to most places but some spots on the island you won’t reach.

Cost of the bus ranges from island to island but we’ve only seen it go as high as 3 EUR.

Where the bus works really well is in Santorini.  There are multiple routes, they’re comfortable coach buses and they only cost 1.80 EUR .

Pros:   Prices and one of the few options for those who don’t have a driver’s license.

Cons:  Most buses don’t run 24/7, you are limited to their route schedule.

Bus Travel Tips:

• Cash only. Try to have smaller change or notes available.
• Payment is taken on the bus.  You either pay the driver or the ticket attendant who goes around once the bus starts moving.

Taxis are the least cost effective way of getting around but may be necessary sometimes.  Where it makes sense to take a taxi is when needing transport from your airport or ferry port to your hotel and you’re not renting a car right away.

Taxis work just like every other country.  They normally run on a fixed fare system but we didn’t find this to be consisten t.  In most cases, you’ll hop in one and hope for the best.  If you read any of our individual island guides , you’ll see we’ve shared some of the rates we paid but keep in mind that rates can change over time so don’t take our rates as the set price for you to expect. Use them as a rough guideline.

There was no Uber coverage anywhere.  This may change in the future but we wouldn’t plan on using Uber on the islands.

Pros:  Door to door service and convenience.

Cons:   Expensive, at the mercy of their rates, may require some pre-planning in terms of booking particularly in less built-up places.

Taxi Travel Tips:

• In some instances, it’ll be smart to book a shuttle service in advance.  This can be done through your hotel or online .  You can save money and you won’t have to deal with the chaos that ensues when you arrive. We find that GetYourGuide has plenty of shuttle service options for most of the destinations you will arrive at on your Greek island trip.

Where to book your hotels, car rental, ferries, flights, activities

• Hotels – Booking.com has the best inventory of properties and with their Genius tier, you can save even more money.
• Car Rental – If you’ve read our guide, you can book with the big brands combined with car rental coupon codes or you can use RentalCars to do a search of most companies. Make sure to also read the guide on how to rent a car in Santorini .
• Ferries – My go-to booking platform is FerryHopper .
• Flights – Use Skyscanner to look for cheap flights using the Everywhere feature and also setting price alerts.
• Activities – Always compare between Viator and GetYourGuide to get the best price.

Where to stay in the Greek Islands

Depending on the island, you’ll have too many choices (Santorini, Mykonos, Milos), few choices (Folegandros, Sifnos, Serifos), or somewhere in between (Naxos, Paros).

Where You Should Stay in Santorini?

Where is the best area in Santorini to stay? Is Fira and Oia worth it? Read on to find out an honest look at each of the major towns and why you should consider each.

Where To Stay in Santorini

Instead of specific recommendations in this Greek Islands travel guide, we’ll share what we learned from planning our island hopping trip:

• Large chain hotels aren’t easy to find on the Greek Islands.  Santorini and Crete are the exceptions. Everywhere else will be family-run hotels, villas, guest homes, B&Bs and budget-friendly hostels.
• There are Airbnb properties but many are the same listings you’ll find on Booking.com .  We recommend Booking.com over Airbnb because there are better cancellation policies.
• We use Booking.com to book all of our accommodations.  Getting up to Genius level only requires 2 bookings. Once you’re at that level many properties offer 10% (level 1 Genius) and 15% off (level 2 Genius).
• Book at least 8-12 months in advance in busier islands such as Santorini if you want something that has a view.
• For accommodation recommendations read our individual guides for each island we visited ( Paros , Santorini , Folegandros ,  and Milos ).

What to pack

Traveling to the Greek Islands doesn’t require a highly technical packing list.

A few things to consider specific to the Greek Islands:

• Beach towels – accommodation owners don’t like when guests use their towels at the beach.  Ask for a beach-friendly one or pack your own.
• International Driver’s License – Hopefully we’ve got this drilled into your head.  Make sure to get one before you go.
• Sunscreen – You can buy this there if you want to save on packing space. Between two people over 14 days, we’d recommend two full-sized bottles.
• Sunglasses – An obvious one, don’t forget these!
• Non-drowsy Gravol  – If you get motion sickness pack this.
• Exchange Euros – It’s always a good idea to have Euros with you immediately after you land. Don’t leave the airport without at least some Euros otherwise you might find yourself scrambling around to find exchange offices and be at the mercy of their rates.
• Europe plug adapters – Easy to forget but make sure to have a few with you.
• Bring layers – Whether it be on the ferries or windy up on the caldera of Santorini, you never know when you might need that extra layer.

When to visit the Greek Islands

Low-season (November – March)

Let’s start with when not to go to the Greek Islands.  Winters are pretty mild compared to other parts of Europe, but it’s quite variable with high chances of rain and dreary days.

In the low season the ferry and flight schedules are also reduced so your options are limited.  Most of the islands are populated by seasonal workers, so you’ll have to contend with skeletal services, facilities and closures.  Count on many hotels, restaurants, and activities (especially water-based ones) being closed.

The advantage is not many people travel to the islands in the winter so you won’t see many tourists.  Things won’t be as lively as they normally are in other parts of the year, which if this is the kind of trip you are looking for, the low season is perfect.

Spring to Summer (April – Mid-June) 

One of the best times to come.  Flowers are blooming, the weather is warming and the large tourist hordes haven’t quite arrived yet.

Shoulder season means better prices and vacancies for hotels.

At this time of the year, flights and ferries switch to their full capacity schedule or close to it.  Restaurants typically don’t need reservations and car rental companies are willing to offer additional discounts.

This applies even more for popular islands like Santorini.  Make sure to read the best time to go to Santorini .

High-season (Mid-June – Mid-September)

This is the height of travel. Expect every aspect to be more challenging whether it’s hotels, car rentals, restaurants, ferries, flights or activities. You can also expect for prices to skyrocket for everything, this is the least economical time to travel and prices can get wild.

Not only are you contending with massive crowds, but the temperature is the hottest if that is a consideration for your trip to the Greek islands.

The only exception to this is in the north with islands like Samothraki and Thassos.  They’re only super busy between July and August so you can get the summer heat with less of the volume of people.  Some of the more popular islands are super busy and not as enjoyable in the summer so if tranquility is the aim of your trip add Mykonos, Crete, Kos, and Zakynthos to a list of Greek islands to avoid.

Summer to Fall (Mid-September – October) 

The transition to Autumn is a great time to visit the Greek Islands.  Similar to Spring, the weather is more temperate with the sea balmier than the air.  Green lends its way to subtle Fall colors and that has its own beauty well worth experiencing while Greek island hopping.

How much does a trip to the Greek Islands cost?

If you’ve come from our Greek Island Hopping in the Western Cyclades itinerary , you’ll see the full breakdown of costs from that trip.  Flights are excluded because they vary drastically from person to person depending on your starting point.

The category breakdown of our spending looked like this:

$2318.82/person or $165.63/person/day .  Backpackers will look at this and say that’s too much and those looking for a luxury trip will think it’s too little.  We’d say that we were pretty moderate when it came to making decisions on our trip.

Where we splurged:

• Getting a nicer hotel in Santorini
• Nicer dinners where it made sense

Where we saved money:

• Finding affordable properties outside of Santorini thanks to Booking.com .
• Avoided excursions and activities.

Cutting costs:

• Don’t rent a car/ATV – rely on buses or stay in an area where you can walk everywhere.
• Hop to fewer islands.
• Avoid big islands and focus on lesser-known ones.
• Find cheaper hostel accommodations through Hostelworld .
• Buy your own groceries to save money on meals where it makes sense (breakfast especially).  There is something lovely about picking up pastries from a local bakery and enjoying it on a morning walk or sitting by the beach.

5 Main Takeaways 

In short, this is what to know when planning a trip without reading this entire Greek Islands travel guide:

• You should have booked your Santorini hotel yesterday!  This is the most popular island and gets booked up fast.
• Pick a good balance of popular and small islands – don’t be afraid to try the unknown ones like Folegandros .
• Always break change – you never know when you’ll need it.
• Fill no more than 5 EUR at a time with your car rental or ATV.
• It’s easy to let your guard down when you go back to Athens after spending time in the Greek Islands.  Stay vigilant and beware of pick-pocketers immediately (read my story in the Athens 2 day itinerary ).

Frequently Asked Questions

Santorini is the safest Greek Island to travel to, as it is one of the more popular islands, so there are always other tourists around. Here, locals are known to be very friendly and helpful to tourists, crime rates are low, and the transportation systems are highly rated as being reliable and safe to use.

The more affordable islands are Crete, Andros, Tinos, Corfu and Naxos, as they are less popular islands than some of the other well-known. Therefore, they are less travelled so prices on these islands are much cheaper than ones like Santorini.

Well you read this guide of course! Ultimately it depends on the type of experience you are looking for and the amount of time you are working with. For instance, if you don’t have much time during your travels the Saronic Islands are recommended since they are all close to Athens. If you are looking for the islands with the best nightlife, the Cyclades are for you. If you’re a foodie, you want to visit Crete! All islands offer something unique, so determining your visit will be unique to you!

Have specific questions about your upcoming trip to the Greek Islands?  Drop a comment below in this Greek Islands travel guide!

What you should read next

• Best Places To Stay In Crete – A Guide Of The Best Towns And Areas!
• Best Area To Stay in Santorini Guide
• Best Places To Stay In Corfu – Top Areas And What To See When There
• How To Backpack Europe On A Budget
• Cheapest Way To Travel Europe – Getting Around On A Budget

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Which greek island should you visit our 2024 top picks.

With more than 200 inhabited islands in Greece, each with its own attractions, brilliant sunsets, postcard-worthy beaches and aquamarine waters, it can be a tall order to decide which one is best suited for your island-hopping vacation. That's why U.S. News took into account sights, seasonality, traveler sentiment and more to come up with this list of the best Greek islands. Now the only decision you'll need to make is which beach hat to pack. Have a favorite Greek island? Vote below to help determine next year's ranking.

Folegandros

Through the ages, Corfu's natural beauty has caught the eye of famous writers like Homer and Shakespeare, as well as ancient Venetian, French and British armies that fought to control the island. Today, it's a picturesque haven for travelers seeking some serious rest and relaxation. There are plenty of resorts overlooking the Ionian Sea and restaurants, bars and shops lining the streets in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Corfu. Here, you'll also find plenty of museums, palaces and historic estates to keep you busy. Also budget time for visiting Paleokastritsa, a tranquil seaside village home to a 13th-century monastery and top-notch scuba diving sites.

Santorini's classic Cycladic architecture (think: whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs) makes this archipelago one of the most stunning and frequented of all of the Greek isles. On the main island of Thira, you'll find beautiful red and black sand beaches and well-preserved archaeological sites thanks to its volcanic history. After exploring Thira's busy tourist sights, take a day trip to quieter Thirassia to experience its quaint villages and untouched wilderness. You'll also want to visit Santorini's acclaimed wineries. Most are concentrated in central Santorini and can be seen during a winery tour. And don't miss catching the sunset from Oia for a postcard-perfect view.

One of the most popular Dodecanese islands, Rhodes hugs Turkey's coastline. Rhodes' large footprint allows for a wide range of activities for vacationers to enjoy. The island's namesake medieval city, which historically hosted the Knights of Saint John, showcases its rich history with well-preserved Gothic structures and several museums. Meanwhile, turquoise waters and sandy stretches like Lindos Beach (which sits alongside a scenic seaside village) and Agathi Beach (set in a picturesque cove) will suit any beach bum, and nature lovers can delight in the verdant Valley of Butterflies. What's more, Rhodes' many villages and cities boast flavorful food offerings and lively nightlife scenes.

Since only a portion of Karpathos is developed for tourism, this Dodecanese island is a haven for those seeking a secluded, low-key getaway. Spend days swimming in crystal-clear water and lounging on unspoiled beaches like Apella and Kyra Panagia. Adventurers can try their hand at windsurfing, a popular activity in the southern bay of Afiartis, or hike some of the island's mountainous trails. Travelers who really want to get away from it all can also take a day trip via boat to Saria or Sokastro, uninhabited and undisturbed islets that were once connected to Karpathos.

Greece's largest island offers something for every traveler. Sun-seekers can lounge on Crete's sandy beaches (such as Vai and the pink sand Elafonisi), and nature lovers can hike through Samaria Gorge in White Mountains National Park. History buffs can explore ancient sites like the Venetian Fortezza in Rethymnon, or visit Heraklion to see the Palace of Knossos (where the mythical Minotaur reportedly roamed) and check out the esteemed Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Everyone will enjoy savoring authentic Cretan fare – including graviera (a Gruyere-like cheese) and dakos (barley rusk topped with tomato, oregano and olive oil) – at the island's tavernas.

Although much of Kefalonia's impressive Venetian architecture was destroyed during an earthquake in 1953, the island still feels magical thanks to its diverse landscape. Wander through charming villages like Assos and Fiscardo to see colorful houses and beautiful churches. Then, soak up some sun on one of the island's pebbly or sandy beaches (Myrtos is the most popular), or take a dip in the clear turquoise water to snorkel or scuba dive. If you'd rather get an adrenaline rush, hike to the top of Megas Soros (the highest point in the Ionian Islands) in Mount Ainos National Park or explore one of Kefalonia's underground caves.

Head to Zakynthos for its breathtaking yet rugged coastline full of hidden cove beaches, some of which are home to the endangered caretta caretta sea turtle species. Popular spots include Navagio (or Shipwreck) Beach – which can only be admired from a distance during a boat tour  – and the magical Blue Caves, where the reflection of the sky and the white limestone turns the water an ethereal shade of blue. Check out the Venetian Castle that overlooks Zakynthos' main town, then visit the Post-Byzantine Art Museum of Zakynthos to peruse art exhibits.

This small island's proximity to Athens makes it a popular weekend getaway for city-dwelling Greeks. But since Serifos is less visited by international crowds, the island retains a distinct authenticity and an opportunity to unwind. Here, visitors should embrace the art of doing nothing. But don't worry, the island's secluded stretches of sand like Ganema Beach (popular with the yacht crowd) and Psili Ammos (known for its soft sand) are perfect for doing just that. More social vacationers can also shop for souvenirs or sip ouzo at open-air cafes in the villages of Chora and Livadi.

Most Greek islands are known for their beaches, but Skiathos features some of the region's best. Here, you'll find more than 60 awe-inspiring options, including secluded Lalaria Beach and clothing-optional Banana Beach. Skiathos' vibrant blue water also makes it a terrific place to go sailing. Or, get picture-perfect views from above by hiking some of the island's 120-plus miles of trails. When you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, spend some time admiring the historic Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria. No visit would be complete without heading to Skiathos Town to eat authentic Greek cuisine and party at a local nightclub.

Spend your next vacation in Syros if you want to be surrounded by history and culture without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists. Syros offers a quieter scene than other Cycladic islands, making it easy to leisurely meander through its charming towns. Check out Ermoupoli's architectural marvels, such as its town hall and the Apollon Theater, then climb the hill above Ermoupoli to Ano Syros, where you'll discover medieval fortifications and panoramic city views. After a few hours of sightseeing, unwind on one of Syros' sandy beaches.

Gorgeous scenery is available everywhere you turn on the Cycladic island of Milos. This volcanic island boasts more than 40 beaches surrounded by jaw-dropping rock formations (check out the lunar landscape at Sarakiniko), as well as houses sporting a variety of vibrant colors. Plus, Milos features multiple caves (including underwater options for scuba diving), hot springs and hiking trails. For a dose of local history, check out the island's catacombs, ancient theater and Archaeological Museum. The latter houses a life-size replica of Alexandros of Antioch's world-renowned Venus de Milo sculpture, which was discovered on the island in 1820.

An ideal spot for slow travel, Astypalea was made for long days of sunning on the sand, hiking through rocky countryside and perusing quaint villages. Shorelines here range from the sandy cove of Agios Konstantinos, which offers spectacular views of the hilltop village of Chora, to the rugged Kaminakia, which is worth the extra effort it takes to get there. Visitors can spend time hiking between beaches while passing Byzantine chapels and scenic monasteries along the way. What's more, the main village of Chora features a Venetian castle, idyllic old town streets to stroll through and a variety of locally produced cheeses and honey to sample.

Part of the Saronic Gulf, Hydra is one of the closest Greek islands to Athens and immediately stands out from its neighbors for its lack of motor vehicles. That's right – you'll have to meander your way around the car-free cobblestone streets on foot or on one of the many mules and horses that reside on the island. But such romanticism is a large part of Hydra's appeal to travelers. While here, walk the island's pebbly shorelines and explore its charming seaside towns like Hydra Town, where you'll discover lavish mansions (many now turned into museums) of elite families of yore and some of Hydra's best nightlife venues.

Folegandros offers a completely different experience than its Cycladic neighbor, Santorini. Here, you'll find undeveloped, hard-to-reach beaches surrounded by steep cliffs, lending a quiet remoteness far from the beach clubs of more touristy islands. Rugged beaches like Katergo and Livadaki are must-visits for their scenery and seclusion, while Agali is a top spot for its nearby tavernas. The clifftop old town of Chora, the largest village on the island, is also worth exploring for its whitewashed architecture, local culture and unbeatable sunset views.

Koufonisia's islands may be among the smallest of the Cyclades, but they offer everything you need for a relaxing seaside getaway. Pano Koufonisi (Koufonisia's only inhabited island) is where you'll find the destination's most beautiful beaches, some of which are clothing optional. After the day's adventures, eat, drink and shop in Chora, the island's capital. For a more secluded feel, take a day trip to Kato Koufonisi to swim or sightsee by boat. A third island, Keros, is not accessible because of its status as a protected archaeological site, but you'll likely see it from afar while traveling.

Paros, one of the most central Cycladic islands, is a mecca for water sports activities. At the island's sun-drenched beaches, travelers can windsurf, kitesurf, scuba dive and go boating, among other pursuits. Away from the water, visitors will find bustling Parikia, which boasts numerous boutiques, restaurants and bars. Paros' capital also features several noteworthy historical sites, including the sixth-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani (which means "Church with 100 Gates" in English) and a 13th-century Venetian castle. Arrive in summer to attend the Festival at the Park, a popular event held annually at the island's 800-acre Paros Park.

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, meaning there's a lot more shore to go around. On this unassuming island, you'll find plenty of beaches to write home about, from popular Plaka to scenic Agios Prokopios, and lots of water sports activities. Due to the Meltemi wind that blows from the north, Naxos is an excellent destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, so be sure to sign up for a lesson. Also save time for exploring ancient ruins like the temples of Apollo, Demeter and Dionysus.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Mykonos, Hydra, and Santorini

These islands are proof that the Olympian gods knew what they were doing when they came down so often to earth.

Cavo Tagoo is a quiet boutique hotel with a gorgeous infinity pool on the edge of Mykonos town. Outside town, Santa Marina Resort & Villas has a well-equipped beach, tennis courts, and three pools, one for children.

Kiki’s Taverna, on Agios Sostis beach, has no sign, phone, or electricity—and a cult following. Sea Satin Market draws a mostly Greek clientele for fish cooked to order from a display case.

In the Know

On the desirable south shore, the Platis Gialos and Ornos beaches are often less crowded, and popular with families.

The only visible drama in the sleepy port of Hydra on most mornings during the summer is a few fuchsia slashes of bougainvillea on the whitewashed houses that huddle around the harbor. That’s because no one is awake then, having stayed at a café until 3 a.m. with newly made friends—perhaps a videographer from Berlin or a gallerist from Sydney—solving the problems of the world over copious amounts of retsina or ouzo. You can hire a water taxi to take you to one of the pebble beaches, but otherwise you walk everywhere (cars and motor scooters have been banned from Hydra). When it’s too hot to do that, seek shade and the company of a good book, maybe by the poet-musician Leonard Cohen, who lived on the island in the 1960s. Although indifferent to celebrities (with the possible exception of Sophia Loren, who filmed Boy on a Dolphin here), the islanders loved Cohen, and they affectionately mention him before even thinking to recite others on the endless list of other famous fans of their island— Richard Burton, Mick Jagger, and patron of the arts Pauline Karpidas, to name a few.

The 10-room Orloff Boutique Hotel is family-run and occupies a recently renovated building that dates from 1796; book the honeymoon suite, which has a small private courtyard, or Suite 4.

Everyone from the Beatles to Bardot has dined at Omilos . Two good rough-and-tumble tavernas are Kodylenia and Xeri Elia; a third, Papagalos, mixes terrific cocktails and has views of the harbor.

Tour the island on horseback with Harriet Jarman, a young Englishwoman who has lived here since she was a child.

It may sound like hyperbole, but Santorini, born circa 1600 BC from a cataclysmic volcanic explosion, is one of the most impossibly romantic places on earth. Beyond primal beauty, sugar-cube architecture, and spectacular sunsets, there’s also the island’s rich archaeological past. Excavations of Akrotiri, a 3,500-year-old Minoan settlement buried under volcanic ash, are ongoing and make for an excellent half-day excursion. And talk about historical romance: Santorini likely inspired the myth of Atlantis.

Among the main villages, Oia is preferable to clifftop Firá, which can be overrun with cruise ship passengers. Perivolas takes your breath away—spring for a room with a plunge pool—as do the stunning views from white-on-white Katikies Hotel .

Argo serves tasty modern Greek cuisine in an open-air setting. Ambrosia has vertiginous views and locavore dishes, while Taverna Katina, by the water at Ammoudi, is simple perfection, with fish cooked to order.

Artist Dimitris Koliousis paints traditional icons in a grotto-like studio.

Go for drinks before or after dinner to stylish Hasapiko a.k.a. Marykay's, after its owner.

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6 must-visit Greek islands and what you can do on each

The islands of Greece are renowned for their unrivaled beauty and island-hopping is one of the best ways to experience the unique landscapes. Few things are better than wandering through the cobblestone walkways, swimming in the crystal blue sea and tucking into delicious Greek food.

However, with over 227 inhabited islands, choosing which islands to visit can be overwhelming. Here, we've listed some of the best Greek islands to add to your itinerary.

Best for: Lush greenery and history

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and luscious greenery, Corfu is one of the most beloved destinations among both locals and travelers. Corfu offers plenty of nature, hiking trails, and opportunities to rest and relax. Two to three days is enough to tour the island’s highlights, but to explore different parts of Corfu, we recommend no less than five days.

Corfu Old Town is one of the top visited places and a good starting point for your trip. Some of the famous landmarks include the Spianada Square , Church of Saint Spiridon , The Liston and the Statue of Georgios Theotokis . If you like history, the Archeological Museum of Corfu has a good collection of artifacts from the different periods.

Located 14 miles from Corfu Town, the beaches at Paleokastritsa boast incredibly clear waters perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Rent a boat or take a private tour to visit the beaches. If time permits, take a day trip from Corfu to discover Paxos’ Blue Caves and Antipaxos.

Where to stay: For somewhere with lots to do, see and eat, Corfu Town will fit your bill. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed town features stunning Venetian architecture; check out the unmissable Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel .

For a family-friendly coastal resort, head to Kontokali . There are many places to choose from and if budget is not an issue, stay at the magnificent Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa .

2. Santorini

Best for: First-timers and honeymooners

Santorini is the most spectacular island and a must-visit when in Greece. We recommend sticking around for a minimum of three days, but it’s easy to linger for five to seven days.

Santorini’s gorgeous coastline is best admired from the water. Go on a catamaran cruise to beaches and other hidden gems only accessible by boat, and visit the island’s volcanic hot springs. During your trip, be sure to visit Fira , Santorini’s capital.

Here, discover the famous white and blue houses and wander through picturesque narrow alleys. Oia is another must-see spot. You can hike from Fira to Oia and enjoy magnificent views of the island along the way. Time your hike to arrive in Oia for the sunset—you can thank us later. There are also half-day hiking tours with a guide.

Where to stay: The four main towns located along the caldera–Fira, Oia, Imerovigli , and Firostefani —are the best places to stay in Santorini . Oia is the most picturesque town in Santorini and is filled with great restaurants and shopping. Imerovigli is a small village that’s quiet and peaceful.

Firostefani, which sits between Imerovigli and Fira, offers amazing caldera views and is less touristy. Fira is centrally located and has good public transportation. However, it tends to be busy and noisy.

Best for: Nature, beaches and food

The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is packed with ancient ruins and natural beauty. It’s said that Crete should be a country on its own (yes, it’s that big); we don’t recommend anything less than seven days to fully explore the island.

For the avid hiker, the Samaria Gorge National Park is one of the most scenic national parks in Europe . To save the hassle of arranging your own transportation, consider a hiking tour that includes a guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.

For beach bums, explore world famous beaches like Elafonissi or the breathtaking Balos Lagoon . There’s also something for history buffs: take a tour to Knossos Palace and the Heraklion city, including a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum .

Where to stay: Chania Town is one of the most popular places, offering plenty of excellent restaurants, bars and shops. The town is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to get to other places. Heraklion is another great area with a bustling nightlife.

Best for: Escaping the crowd

While still bearing the idyllic stone streets and white-washed building, Paros is definitely worth a visit for travelers looking to escape the buzz of Mykonos and Santorini. Two to three days is enough to discover the best of Paros, but you can spend more time enjoying the serenity of the place if you wish.

Parikia is where the majority of Paros’ landmarks are located, such as the Panagia Ekatontapiliani , the Frankish Castle ruins and the Archaeological Museum . Spend a lazy afternoon sipping wine at Moraitis Winery , or take a dip in the clear waters of Lageri beach .

For a truly traditional Greek village experience, head to Lefkes . Popular things to do include walking the Byzantine Road from Lefkes to Prodromos , stopping by Kallitechniko Kafenio , and visiting the town of Marpissa .

Where to stay: The best areas are the two main villages, Parikia and Naoussa . Parikia is a budget-friendly option; it’s also well connected by public transportation. For a more upscale and modern feel, Naoussa is a good bet. There are also more luxury hotels or villas to choose from in the area.

Best for: Families

While the Greek islands are often great for partying, there are family-friendly options like Naxos . It’s a large laid-back island with long and sandy beaches (sans the crowd) and plenty of family-friendly attractions, from ruins to museums.

For a fuss-free introduction to Naxos, hop on a bus tour to explore the island and experience top attractions such as the ancient Temple of Demeter , the Archaeological Museum of Apiranthos , and the church of Agios Georgios Disasoritis . You can also see Greek mythologies come to life on a Naxos mythology tour . Also, don’t miss out on the views from the top of Kastro of Naxos .

Agios Georgios Beach (St. George Beach) is one of the most family-friendly beaches with activities for everyone. Lounge under an umbrella and enjoy the Aegean sun while the kids splash and play in the shallow waters. The shallow lagoon is also popular with windsurfers. If you need windsurfing lessons, head to Laguna Beach Park where Naxos’s premier windsurfing school is located.

Where to stay: Chora is the main town on Naxos and it’s the most convenient area to stay with good bus services to other parts of the island. For a picturesque beach getaway, stay in Plaka , a laid-back seaside town; Agia Anna or Agios Prokopios are also popular locations for a secluded getaway.

Best for: Nightlife and beaches

Known as the Greek party island, Mykonos is certainly the most cosmopolitan (and luxurious) island destination in Greece. Two to three days in Mykonos is enough to take in some history and culture, while four to five days will allow you to experience the island in a whole different way.

With so much to see and do in Mykonos, a half-day tour will cover the main highlights of the island, such as Little Venice , Panagia Paraportiani , and Monastery of Panayia Tourliani . You can also tailor your itinerary according to your interest with this private tour .

From Mykonos, take a half-day trip to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. In summer, head for the pristine beaches in Mykonos. For a challenging (but fun) surf in the summer winds, check out Kalafatis, Platis Gialos or Ftelia . Hopping on a cruise is another great way to discover the beauty of the south coast. Plus, you get to hit some of the best beaches in Mykonos along the way.

Where to stay: Most of the action takes place in and around Mykonos Town , Ornos Beach and Platis Gialos Beach. Mykonos town offers lots of nightlife, restaurants and shopping, and it’s compact and walkable. There are also buses running regularly from Mykonos Town to the beaches.

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Expert Greek Islands Travel Guide With Itinerary Routes

So you want to plan a trip to the Greek Islands and have no idea where to start? Luckily you have found an expert who has traveled the islands extensively.

With my guidance and the Greek Island travel guide below, I can ensure you don’t make the same mistakes I made 14 years ago on my first trip to Greece.

Since my maiden voyage to the Isles in 2010, I have visited some of the most famous and lesser-known Greek islands.

Compiling my decade of experience, I’ve put all my tips in one place to help you avoid the usual island-hopping mistakes.

This in-depth guide to the Greek Islands will help you understand the different island groups and how to craft your itinerary.

In case you’re still uncertain about your destination, I’ve put together a handy Greek Island Quiz to assist you in making your decision!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy for more info.

Understanding The Main Island Groups

It is so important to understand the island groups when planning a Greek Island hopping itinerary.

And that is because some of these islands are extremely far from one another. For example, you are not going to “hop” from Crete to Corfu, you are going to fly.

Some Greek islands although seemingly close together can still be a little challenging to get to.

See the map below that gives you an overview of the Island Group in Greece.

When you are researching from island to island , you can get inspired when using the search feature in Ferry Hopper .

You can see below that I selected my departing port, but left the destination blank. Look to the right and there will be a display of direct routes.

You can play around with ferry schedules here to help you find your next island. It is not a perfect system , but it works very well if you understand these island groups.

Planning your Greek island route takes a little time and patience. But don’t worry, I will share my expertise and suggest Greek island hopping routes.

The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands

Timing your Greek Island getaway is important . Some of the most popular islands are incredibly crowded and overpriced in July in August. And I’m looking at you, Santorini and Mykonos…

If you are deadset on visiting these islands the best time to go would be late September. The crowds will have died down, the weather should still be great, and things will be on sale at the end of the season.

Ideally, you want to visit the Greek Islands between May and October. Many of the small islands are closed altogether during the winter months. Except the bigger islands like Rhodes and Crete that are functional all year round.

Choosing Where to Stay in The Greek Islands

No matter what island you are on, typically I focus on researching two areas, which are the Port and the Chora (the old town). It is especially important if you are traveling solo to the Greek Islands .

In the port and Chora, you will have access to many shops, bars, and restaurants. It is also where you will find the most transit options if you don’t rent a car.

For a more romantic and secluded experience on any island , you will need to rent a car .

Sometimes, off-the-beaten-path hotels will have shuttle buses to and from the old town, but you could be limited to that schedule.

Consider the experience you are looking to have and plan accordingly.

List of Greek Island Groups

Crete (largest greek island).

The largest Greek Island, Crete, is in a group all its own. This island has four regions, but two main cities that attract the majority of tourists. Chania “idyllic village” and Heraklion “historic village”.

Chania is much more delightful to visit if you are looking for a more relaxed chill vibe. Heraklion is BUSY , and in my opinion only worth visiting for the day.

Reymotho is another charming area in Crete to stay. You will find a nice seaside village with cute shops, good restaurants and a fortress high on the hill to explore.

Best Way To Get To Crete

When traveling to Greece’s largest island you have a few options. There are 2 major airports on the island. Heraklion and Chania. The major port is in Heraklion , but other ferry ports around the island exist including Chania.

If you are traveling to Crete after exploring Athens, you can take the overnight ferry to Crete , which is the best way since the ride is around 8 hours.

When I visited Crete I found it more convenient to fly , though the ferry is fun.

Best Areas to Stay in Crete

Where to stay in Crete will depend solely on the type of vacation you are after.

If you are looking to spend a romantic holiday with your partner that would look different than going with a bunch of friends to have a good time.

Since Crete is the biggest Greek Island , you should research where to stay in full.

Read Next: Best Areas to Stay in Crete

Here is a map and mini breakdown of 4 major regions of Crete:

Heraklion (Iraklio):

• Location : Central-eastern part of Crete .
• Key Features : Home to the island’s capital city, also named Heraklion, which is the largest city in Crete. The region is famous for the Palace of Knossos , an important Minoan archaeological site, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , which houses many artifacts from Knossos and other Minoan ruins.
• Tourist Attractions : Heraklion offers a blend of urban and historic attractions, with bustling city life, historical sites, and beautiful beaches like Amoudara.
• Where to Stay : City Lion by Semavi , Casa Al Mare Sea View Heraklion City Center

Chania (Hania):

• Location : Northwestern Crete .
• Key Features : Known for its charming old town with Venetian-era buildings, narrow streets, and a picturesque harbor. The region has a diverse landscape, including the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), Samaria Gorge , and beautiful beaches like Balos and Elafonissi .
• Tourist Attractions : Chania’s old town and harbor, exotic beaches, and hiking opportunities in the gorges and mountains make it a popular destination.
• Where to Stay: Cretan Berry Kondylaki , Nais Apartments & Studios

Rethymno (Rethymnon):

• Location : Central-western Crete .
• Key Features : Characterized by its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and the Fortezza, a large fortress overlooking the city. Rethymno’s old town is a mix of Ottoman and Venetian influences, and the region boasts long sandy beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The old town of Rethymno , the Fortezza, and beaches like Preveli with its unique palm forest are highlights.
• Where to Stay: Kapsaliana Village Hotel , SAVUS Boutique Hotel
• Location : Eastern Crete .
• Key Features : Known for its quieter, less developed atmosphere compared to the other regions. It is famous for the palm beach of Vai, which has one of Europe’s largest natural palm forests, and the Dikteon Cave believed to be the birthplace of Zeus according to Greek mythology.
• Tourist Attractions : Lasithi offers a more relaxed and natural setting, with attractions such as the Lasithi Plateau, traditional villages, and archaeological sites.
• Where to Stay: Aelia Suites , Enorme Santanna Beach

Greek Island Hopping Routes From Crete

As I mentioned before, the major port is in Heraklion , so to easily hop to another island you will have the most options from Heraklion.

Crete – Santorini – Ios – Naxos – Mykonos:

• Crete : 4 nights.
• Santorini : 3 nights.
• Ios : 2 nights.
• Naxos : 3 nights.
• Mykonos : 2 nights.

The Cyclades Islands (Most Famous Greek Islands)

The Cyclades is an island group home to the most famous Greek Islands, Santorini and Mykonos. Both are worth visiting , but not in the high season for July and August.

Depending on when you visit, Mykonos can be extremely expensive , same with Santorini, and both are largely overcrowded.

While I understand the allure of visiting these islands, I would highly recommend visiting on a day trip and staying on a more affordable nearby island.

List of the Cyclades Islands – Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea (Tzia), Kythnos, Milos , Mykonos , Naxos , Paros, Santorini (Thira), Serifos, Sifnos , Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, Folegandros.

Best Way To Get To The Cyclades

Several of the most popular islands in the Cyclades have airports, such as Naxos, Mykonos, Milos, and Santorini.

The smaller islands like Sifnos and Folegandros do not have an airport.

Depending on your travel plans you could fly into one of these islands and ferry your way around, eventually to Athens if you desire.

It will depend on how many days you have to explore altogether. I recommend 2 nights per island minimum for small islands and 4 nights minimum for larger islands.

The Milos to Athens ferry line is very convenient stopping at Milos, Sifnos, and Serifos.

Expert Tip: Rent a car in Milos . I made the mistake of not having a car and nearly went bankrupt using taxis that were hard to find.

Choosing The Best Island in The Cyclades

Santorini (thira):.

• Key Features : Famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed houses with blue domes, and dramatic caldera views. It’s a popular destination for honeymooners and tourists.
• Tourist Attractions : The towns of Oia and Fira, the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, and the unique black sand beaches.
• Where to Stay : Santorini Sky, Luxury Resort , Voreina Gallery Suites

• Key Features : Known for its exciting nightlife, white-washed villages, luxurious resorts, and iconic windmills. It’s a cosmopolitan island popular with the celebrity crowd.
• Tourist Attractions : The picturesque Mykonos Town , beautiful beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise, and the nearby island of Delos , an important archaeological site.
• Where to Stay: Alissachni Mykonos , Tropicana Hotel, Suites & Villas Mykonos

Read Next: Is Mykonos REALLY that expensive?

• Key Features : The largest island in the Cyclades, known for its impressive mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and long sandy beaches. When visiting Naxos I recommend renting a car to see the whole island.
• Tourist Attractions : The Portara (an ancient marble gateway), traditional villages, and the Temple of Demeter .
• Where to Stay: Naxian Althea , Anapollo Boutique Hotel Adults Only

Read Next: Best Bus Tour in Naxos

• Key Features : Famous for its traditional villages, beautiful beaches, and active windsurfing community.
• Tourist Attractions : The port town of Parikia, the charming village of Naoussa, and the Panagia Ekatontapiliani church .
• Where to Stay: PAREA Paros – Adults Only , Kymo Luxury Suites Paros

• Key Features : Known for its volcanic landscape and unique beaches. The island is where the famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered.
• Tourist Attractions : The picturesque fishing village of Klima, the catacombs, and beaches like Sarakiniko and Tsigrado.
• Where to Stay: Artemis Seaside Resort , Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel

Read Next: 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Milos

• Key Features : The administrative center of the Cyclades, is known for its blend of medieval and neoclassical architecture, especially in the capital, Ermoupoli.
• Tourist Attractions : The Apollo Theater , Ermoupoli’s town square, and Vaporia district.
• Where to Stay: SYROS SOUL LUXURY SUITES , Shapes Luxury Suites
• Key Features : A pilgrimage site for Greek Orthodox Christians, known for its Church of the Annunciation and traditional villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The church and its icon believed to perform miracles, the marble craft villages, and the sculptors’ workshops.
• Where to Stay: Avissalou Apartments , La Vista TINOS
• Key Features : A less touristy island with lush landscapes, numerous springs, and a rich maritime history.
• Tourist Attractions : The Museum of Contemporary Art Andros , the capital Chora with its medieval castle, and beautiful beaches.
• Where to Stay: Blue Bay Resort Village , Krinos Suites Andros

• Key Features : Known for its pottery, incredible restaurants , culinary tradition, and charming villages. You’ll love all the unique areas to stay in Sifnos.
• Tourist Attractions : The picturesque village of Kastro, the church of Seven Martyrs , and traditional pottery workshops. Check out local restaurants such as Omega3 and Cantina.
• Where to Stay: Nival Boutique Hotel , Apsila Pool Suites

Read Next: Guide to Sifnos, Greece

• Key Features : Popular among young tourists, known for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The tomb of Homer , the main village of Chora, and beaches like Mylopotas and Manganari.
• Where to Stay: White Loft , Liostasi
• Key Features : A more remote and tranquil island, known for its dramatic cliffs and the impressive Monastery of Hozoviotissa .
• Tourist Attractions : The monastery, the shipwreck from the film “The Big Blue,” and traditional villages.
• Where to Stay: Pension The Big Blue , Amorgion Hotel

• Key Features: Serifos is a less crowded, peaceful island, famous for its rugged landscape and charming hilltop capital, Chora.
• Tourist Attractions: The striking white-washed village of Chora and its windmills, hiking, and beautiful beaches.
• Where to Stay: Rizes Hotel , Coco-Mat Eco Residences Serifos

Folegandros:

• Key Features : A small, serene island with traditional Cycladic architecture and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Tourist Attractions : The cliffside Chora, Church of Panagia, and secluded beaches.
• Where to Stay: Blue Sand Boutique Hotel & Suites , Polikandia Hotel

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Cyclades

When planning a Greek Island hopping itinerary route in the Cyclades an easy route is to start from Athen Pireaus Port .

Mykonos – Paros – Naxos – Santorini:

• Mykonos : 2 nights
• Paros : 2 nights
• Naxos : 3 nights
• Santorini : 3 nights

Santorini – Amorgos – Naxos:

• Amorgos : 2 nights
• Naxos : 2 nights

Syros – Mykonos – Milos – Sifnos – Serifos

• Syros : 2 nights
• Milos : 3 nights
• Sifnos : 2 nights
• Serifos : 1 night

Saronic Gulf Islands (Closest Islands to Athens)

If you are visiting Greece on a short trip and want to easily combine a visit to Athens as well as the Greek Islands, you want to visit the Saronic Islands !

These islands include Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, and Dokos. The most popular, and arguably the best, is Hydra.

Hydra is one of the most popular Greek Islands close to Athens. No cars are allowed on the island which I loved.

You will see the locals using donkeys to transport their goods and sometimes themselves to travel from one place to another.

Best Way To Get To The Saronic Gulf

The only way to get to these tiny islands in the Saronic Gulf is by ferry. A popular route is by taking the ferry from Athens to Hydra . Depending on the ferry company, your route may include a stop at Aegina.

One fun way to see three islands in one day from Athens is to book a tour! The full-day tour leaving from Athens leaves early morning and takes you to all 3 islands with short stops for a couple of hours at each.

If you are short on time it’s a terrific way to see the Greek Islands .

Choosing the Best Islands in The Saronic Gulf

• Key Features : Famous for its pistachio orchards, Aegina is a popular destination for day trips from Athens . It has a rich history, evident in its ancient ruins.
• Tourist Attractions : The Temple of Aphaia , one of the most important Doric temples in Greece, the picturesque town of Aegina, and the church of Saint Nectarios.
• Where to Stay: The Beachhouse Apartments , Cruise on Land

• Key Features : Known for its well-preserved architecture, absence of motor vehicles, and art scene. The island has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and is a favorite among artists and celebrities.
• Tourist Attractions : Hydra’s port town with its stone mansions, art galleries, and the historic monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
• Where to Stay: FOS Hydra Residence , Villa Maria- Hydra Dream House

Read Next: Athens to Hydra Ferry

• Key Features : A small, lush island separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow waterway. It’s known for its scenic beauty, historic clock tower, and serene beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The Sanctuary of Poseidon , the picturesque Poros Town, and beautiful beaches like Love Bay.
• Where to Stay: Dimitra Boutique Hotel , Sea view house on Poros
• Key Features : This island has a rich nautical history and is famous for its significant role in the Greek War of Independence. It’s known for its elegant mansions and car-free policy .
• Tourist Attractions : The Museum of Bouboulina , the old harbor, and the annual Armata Festival, which commemorates a naval battle during the War of Independence.
• Where to Stay: Villa Kalomira , Armata Boutique Hotel
• Key Features : A small, pine-covered island known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. It’s less crowded compared to its neighbors, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
• Tourist Attractions : Quiet beaches like Skala and Aponisos, and the opportunity for hiking and biking in a serene environment.
• Where to Stay: Oasis Beach Hotel , Koukounari Apartments
• Key Features : The largest island in the Saronic Gulf, Salamis is historically significant as the site of the famous naval battle in 480 BC. It’s a residential and holiday spot with a mix of sandy beaches and pine forests.
• Tourist Attractions : The Cave of Euripides , where the famous playwright is said to have written some of his plays, and the Monastery of Faneromeni.
• Where to Stay: Salamina’s Apartments
• Key Features : A small, mostly uninhabited island between Hydra and the Peloponnese, known for its archaeological significance, particularly for underwater archaeology.
• Tourist Attractions : The island is mainly a destination for yachting and anchoring in its protected bays, offering a secluded and natural environment.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes-The Saronic Gulf

A great Island hopping itinerary includes a 3 day stay in Hydra with a day trip to and then 2 nights in Aegina.

The Dodecanese Islands (Most Southern Islands)

The island group that is the most southern closest to Turkey is the Dodecanese group of islands. Here you will find that Rhodes is the largest Greek island.

Other islands in this group include Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo, Kos, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi, Tilos, and Chalki.

Best Way to Get to The Dodecanese Islands

If your first destination is an island in the Dodecanese, the most logical way to get there is to fly. Unless you want to burn a lot of time on ferries.

I recommend flying into Rhodes and beginning your ferry-hopping journey from there.

Other Dodecanese islands that have airports are Kos, Karpthos, Leros, Kalymnos, Kastellorizo, and Astypalaia. Rhodes and Kos likely have the most daily flights .

An easy day trip from Rhodes is by taking the Rhodes to Symi Ferry or a fast boat.

Choosing the Best of The Dodecanese Islands

• Key Features : The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is famous for its ancient ruins, medieval Old Town, and beaches. It’s a blend of historical sites and a bustling tourist resort. When visiting Rhodes, it is ideal to rent a car .
• Tourist Attractions : The medieval Old Town of Rhodes , the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Acropolis of Lindos .
• Where to Stay: Sperveri Boutique Hotel , Evdokia Hotel

Read Next: Rhodes to Symi Island on a Fast Boat

• Key Features : Known for its sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and the Asklepion, an ancient healing center. Kos is the birthplace of Hippocrates , the father of medicine.
• Tourist Attractions : The Asklepion, the Castle of the Knights, and the ancient Agora.
• Where to Stay: Maritina Hotel , OKU Kos
• Key Features : A significant Christian pilgrimage site, Patmos is where St. John is said to have written the Book of Revelation . It has a fortified monastery and a charming old town.
• Tourist Attractions : The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse.
• Where to Stay: 9 Muses Exclusive Apartments , En Patmo Holiday Home
• Key Features : Known for preserving traditional customs and dress, Karpathos offers dramatic landscapes, with rugged mountains and pristine beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The villages of Olympos and Diafani, known for their traditional architecture and customs, and beautiful beaches like Apella.
• Where to Stay: Alisachni Villas , Aeolia Suites
• Key Features : Leros has a relaxed atmosphere with a rich naval history. It features a blend of architectural styles and has a scenic indented coastline.
• Tourist Attractions : The Castle of Leros , the War Museum, and the scenic port of Agia Marina.
• Where to Stay: Alidian Bay Suites Leros
• Key Features : Best known for its sponge diving heritage, Kalymnos is also a world-renowned destination for rock climbing.
• Tourist Attractions : The Sponge Divers Museum in Pothia, climbing spots, and beautiful beaches like Masouri.
• Where to Stay: Petra Boutique Villas , Petra Boutique Homes

Astypalaia:

• Key Features : Astypalaia, shaped like a butterfly, is known for its Venetian castle, traditional white windmills, and tranquil beaches.
• Tourist Attractions : The Venetian Castle, Chora with its windmills, and the beaches of Livadi and Vatses.
• Where to Stay: 5 Traditional Suites
• Key Features : A volcanic island famous for its still-active volcano and lunar-like craters. Nisyros offers a unique landscape and tranquil villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The volcano and its accessible crater, the traditional village of Mandraki, and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani .
• Key Features : A small and serene island known for its unspoiled nature, wildlife, and medieval ruins.
• Tourist Attractions : The abandoned medieval village of Mikro Chorio, the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon , and tranquil beaches.
• Where to Stay: Uno Apartment 1st Floor

• Key Features : Famous for its neoclassical architecture with colorful houses, Symi is a picturesque and charming island.
• Tourist Attractions : The port of Gialos, the Monastery of Panormitis , and the scenic bay of Pedi.
• Where to Stay: Odyssia

Kastellorizo (Megisti):

• Key Features : The easternmost Greek island, is known for its rich history, colorful houses, and crystal-clear waters.
• Tourist Attractions : The Blue Cave, the Castle of the Knights, and the Archaeological Museum.
• Key Features : A less-visited island with a strong maritime tradition, Kasos is known for its traditional music and customs.
• Tourist Attractions : The traditional villages, the Church of Agios Spiridon , and the maritime museum.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Dodecanese Islands

Kos – nisyros – tilos – rhodes:.

• Kos : 2 nights.
• Nisyros : 1 night.
• Tilos : 2 nights.
• Rhodes : 3 nights.

Patmos – Leros – Kalymnos – Kos:

• Patmos : 2 nights.
• Leros : 1 night.
• Kalymnos : 2 nights.

The Ionian Greek Islands (The Seven Islands)

The Ionian Greek island group has been referred to as the  Heptanese , which means “Seven Islands”.

These Islands are located in the Ionian Sea on the Eastern side of Greece closer to Italy and Albania.

Best Way To Get To The Ionian Islands

From Athens, the easiest way to get to the Ionian Islands is to fly. Ferries leaving out of Port of Piraeus don’t have a direct link that go there .

In the Ionian Islands, several have international airports which facilitate both domestic and international travel. Corfu, known as Kerkyra in Greek, is served by the Corfu International Airport , also referred to as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport .

This airport is well-equipped for international flights, making Corfu a convenient destination for travelers from abroad.

Kefalonia, or Cephalonia, also hosts an international airport, known as Kefalonia International Airport or Anna Pollatou Airport. This facility connects the island with various international locations.

Similarly, Zakynthos, or Zante, has an international airport named Zakynthos International Airport, also known as Dionysios Solomos Airport, which caters to international passengers, particularly during the tourist season.

Lefkada, or Lefkas, does not have its own airport; however, it is conveniently served by the nearby Aktion National Airport located on the mainland near Preveza.

This airport, which handles international flights, is within a short driving distance from Lefkada, making it relatively easy for visitors to reach the island.

Choosing the Best of The Ionian Islands

Corfu (kerkyra):.

• Key Features : Known for its lush greenery, Venetian-style architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Corfu has a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a blend of Greek, Venetian, French, and British influences.
• Tourist Attractions : The Old Town of Corfu (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Achilleion Palace, the Venetian Fort, and the Paleokastritsa Monastery .
• Where to Stay: Archontiko Petrettini Boutique Hotel

Kefalonia (Cephalonia):

• Key Features : Kefalonia is famous for its beaches & dramatic landscapes, including mountains, caves, and stunning beaches. The island gained fame through the novel and movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.”
• Tourist Attractions : The Melissani Cave , Myrtos Beach, and the picturesque village of Fiscardo.
• If you are looking for Where to Stay in Kefalonia I would suggest as close to ARGOSTOLI.

Zakynthos (Zante):

• Key Features : Known for its swinging nightlife and beautiful beaches, including the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) , one of Greece’s most famous photographic spots.
• Tourist Attractions : Navagio Beach, the Blue Caves, and the endangered loggerhead sea turtles in Laganas Bay.
• Where to Stay: Tsamis Zante Suites

Lefkada (Lefkas):

• Key Features : Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Lefkada is known for its impressive beaches with turquoise waters and its charming mountain villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni, and the windsurfing center at Vassiliki.
• Where to Stay: KN Ionian Suites

Ithaca (Ithaki):

• Key Features : The Greek Island of Ithaca is famed as the homeland of Odysseus in Homer’s epic, Ithaca is a tranquil island with lush landscapes and quaint villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The Cave of the Nymphs , the ruins of the ancient city of Alalcomenae , and the picturesque village of Kioni .

Paxos (Paxi) :

• Key Features : A small and unspoiled island, Paxos is known for its olive groves, crystal-clear waters, and pebble beaches. It has a peaceful and exclusive atmosphere.
• Tourist Attractions : The Blue Caves, the charming port villages of Gaios, Lakka, and Loggos.

Kythira (Cythera):

• Key Features : Although geographically closer to the Peloponnese, Kythira is culturally and administratively part of the Ionian Islands. It’s known for its wild beauty, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
• Tourist Attractions : The Venetian castle of Chora, the picturesque village of Avlemonas, and the Mylopotamos waterfalls.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Ionian Islands

Corfu – paxos – lefkada:.

• Corfu: 3 nights
• Paxos: 2 nights
• Lefkada: 3 nights

Kefalonia – Ithaca – Zakynthos:

• Kefalonia: 3 nights
• Ithaca: 2 nights
• Zakynthos: 3 nights

The Northern Aegean Islands

The Northern Aegean Islands, a beautiful group of islands, are located in the northeastern Aegean Sea, between Turkey and Greece.

These islands are known for their interesting history, varied landscapes, and unique culture.

They are less visited than other more popular Greek islands, which makes them a quieter but still very charming place to visit.

Best Way To Get To The Northern Aegean Islands

Reaching the Northern Aegean Islands typically involves a combination of air and sea travel, depending on your starting point.

From Athens, the most efficient way to reach these islands is usually by flying.

Lesbos, Chios, Samos, and Ikaria have airports with domestic connections to Athens and, in some cases, direct international flights, particularly during the tourist season.

Lesbos is served by Mytilene International Airport “Odysseas Elytis,” offering both domestic and international flights.

Chios Island National Airport “Omiros” and Samos International Airport “Aristarchos of Samos” also connect these islands to various destinations.

For Ikaria, the Ikaria Island National Airport caters mostly to domestic flights but may have some international charters.

Alternatively, ferry services from the mainland and other Greek islands provide a scenic route to the Northern Aegean Islands.

These ferries frequently depart from ports such as Piraeus in Athens, offering a more leisurely but equally enjoyable journey to these storied isles.

Whether by air or sea, the journey to the Northern Aegean Islands promises a gateway to an array of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and enjoying unspoiled natural beauty to immersing oneself in the rich cultural traditions of this distinctive Greek island group.

Choosing the Best Northern Aegean Island

Lesbos (mytilene):.

• Key Features : Lesbos, also known by the name of its capital, Mytilene, is the third-largest Greek island. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Petrified Forest, and production of ouzo, a famous Greek liquor.
• Tourist Attractions : The Petrified Forest , a UNESCO Global Geopark ; the historic Castle of Mytilene; and beautiful beach towns like Molyvos and Skala Eressou.
• Where to Stay: Luxury Apartment with balcony, The Beehive

• Key Features : Famous for its medieval villages and mastic production, Chios has a unique identity. The island is dotted with distinctive stone houses and has a rich medieval history.
• Tourist Attractions : The Nea Moni , an 11th-century monastery and UNESCO World Heritage site; the mastic villages like Pyrgi and Mesta; and beautiful beaches such as Vroulidia and Mavra Volia.
• Where to Stay: Ostria Seaside Studios and Apartments, Almiriki Hotel
• Key Features : Known for its wine production and rich ancient history, Samos is an island with lush greenery, mountainous landscapes, and significant archaeological sites.
• Tourist Attractions : The Temple of Hera , a UNESCO World Heritage site; the Tunnel of Eupalinos, an ancient engineering marvel; and beaches like Tsamadou and Kokkari.
• Where to Stay: SeaView Apartment & Studios, Casa Cook Samos – Adults only
• Key Features : Famous for its longevity among inhabitants, Ikaria is a mountainous island with a relaxed pace of life. It’s known for its thermal springs and wild, untamed nature.
• Tourist Attractions : The Radioactive Thermal Springs of Ikaria, the scenic village of Armenistis, and the Seychelles beach.
• Where to Stay: Archipelagos Hotel, Patras Apartments

Limnos (Lemnos):

• Key Features : An island with volcanic origins, Limnos offers vast sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and a tranquil environment. It’s known for its traditional villages and local wine.
• Tourist Attractions : The ancient city of Hephaestia, the Castle of Myrina , and the unique landscapes of the Aliki wetland.
• Where to Stay: Arxontiko Hotel, Grand Patelli

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Northern Aegean Islands

Lesbos – chios – samos:.

• Lesbos: 3 nights
• Chios: 2 nights
• Samos: 3 nights

Thassos – Lemnos – Samothraki:

• Thassos: 3 nights
• Lemnos: 2 nights
• Samothraki: 2 nights

The Sporades Island Group

The Sporades Islands, an enchanting archipelago, are nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, off the coast of mainland Greece.

This cluster of islands is celebrated for insane greenery, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

They offer a more tranquil and unspoiled alternative to the busier Greek islands, providing an idyllic retreat for those seeking a serene yet captivating Greek island experience.

The Best Way to Get The Sporades Islands

The most common entry point to visit Sporades is via the city of Volos on the Greek mainland , which is well-connected by road and rail to major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

From Volos, you have the option to take a ferry or a high-speed catamaran to reach the islands.

The ferry service is more frequent during the summer months, catering to both passengers and vehicles.

Skiathos, the closest and most popular among the Sporades , serves as a gateway to the other islands in the archipelago, including Skopelos and Alonissos.

Alternatively, for those seeking a quicker route, Skiathos also has an airport that accommodates domestic flights, primarily from Athens.

The flight from Athens to Skiathos is short , taking about 30 to 45 minutes, and from there, visitors can easily hop onto a ferry to explore the neighboring islands.

Choosing the Best Sporades Island

• Key Features: Skiathos, the most accessible of the Sporades islands, is known for its nightlife and stunning beaches. It boasts over 60 sandy beaches, including the famous Koukounaries , and has a bustling town filled with charming shops and restaurants.
• Tourist Attractions: The Lalaria Beach , accessible only by boat, with its striking blue waters; the medieval ruins of Kastro; and the Skiathos Town with its lively harborside and nightlife.
• Where to Stay: Skopelos Village Hotel
• Key Features: Skopelos is celebrated for its lush green landscapes, traditional architecture, and being a filming location for the movie “Mamma Mia!” It’s a quieter, more authentic experience compared to Skiathos, with beautiful monasteries and churches.
• Tourist Attractions: The iconic cliffside Agios Ioannis Chapel , made famous by “ Mamma Mia !” ; the scenic Skopelos Town with its winding streets and charming buildings; and serene beaches like Stafilos and Panormos.
• Where to Stay: ELIVI Skiathos
• Key Features: Known for its natural beauty and marine park, Alonissos is the most remote of the inhabited Sporades islands. It’s a haven for nature lovers, with rich biodiversity both on land and in the surrounding waters.
• Tourist Attractions: The National Marine Park of Alonissos , a protected area offering superb opportunities for snorkeling and seeing marine life; the charming Old Town of Alonissos ; and secluded beaches like Chrisi Milia and Agios Dimitrios.

Island Hopping Itinerary Routes- The Sporades

Skiathos- skopelos-alonissos.

• Skiathos: 2 Nights
• Skopelos: 2 Nights
• Alonissos: 2 Nights

Greek Island Cheatsheet

If you’re familiar with the unique vibes of Greek islands and seeking the perfect one to match your interests, here’s a guide to some of the most common island themes:

Best Greek Islands for a Party

If you are looking for the Greek Islands known for a good time check out:

Best Greek Islands for Families

Traveling to the Greek Islands with the whole family? You want to check out these islands:

• Serifos, Greece

Best Greek Islands for Solo Travelers

When going to the Greek Islands alone you should consider these to be ideal:

Best Greek Islands for Foodies

Fancier yourself a foodie? These Greek Islands are KNOWN for their incredible cuisine:

Read Next: Best Greek Islands for Food Lovers

Which Greek Island Should You Visit? Take The Quiz!

Still not sure where to go? Take the quiz and find out what Greek Island is right for you based on your personality!

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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Best Greek islands: The insider guide to where to go in Greece in 2022

Aussies are going there in droves, but the eternal question remains: which Greek island is best? We ask the experts for their advice on how to choose the right destination for you.

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My big mistake on stunning Greek island

I spent 48 hours in Athens, don’t miss this

Aussie’s outrage over $170 Europe beach fee

The jeweller and I gasp. From under the table in her whitewashed Mykonos shop, she’s produced a ring. It’s modest, but the stones perfectly mimic the emerald tones of the Aegean Sea and cobalt of the sky. This is a rare adult purchase during a trip so extraordinary, so dazzling, that something tangible is required to solidify the memory.

“I’d forgotten this,” says the jeweller, hypnotised by the hues. For me, it’s a small piece of the Cyclades islands forever on my finger, a morsel of an adventure that started as a week’s exploration and morphed (between European lockdowns) into a two-year, eight-visit odyssey. To shake off the pandemic blues, all you need is Greece.

Those who venture here find gold. Not the real kind, but something far more valuable, called philotimo, which the jeweller has just embodied. It’s hospitality with generosity and kindness, which Greek-Australian fitness mogul and Sweat founder Kayla Itsines – a regular visitor to her homeland – describes as “doing things with your heart, sharing, giving, treating people like family and not expecting anything in return”.

See also: 11 most underrated Greek islands

See also: Never make this Greek etiquette mistake

Acting superstar Tom Hanks, as an official Greek citizen (and Antiparos homeowner), has rhapsodised: “The people are so warm and open … it’s all good for the soul, it (Greece) is a healing place.” Just what the travel doctor ordered.

But where’s the best place in Greece to go? It’s a question guaranteed to spark a riot among our passionate Hellenic diaspora. Is it the cliff-clinging monasteries of Meteora, the history-drenched Peloponnese, or hopping between the 227 inhabited islands?

As Aussie chef Curtis Stone said of his recent family adventure: “Greece has everything – great food and excellent wine; historic sites and stunning beaches. I don’t think I can pick one thing I love more than the other because it all comes together in such a beautiful, magical way. There’s no other place in the world like it.”

But be ready to book. Costas Yiannakodimos, the press counsellor of the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, says tourism in Greece is heating up. “For 2022, the forecasts so far are very positive. Except for the unexpected, they will reach numbers corresponding to 2019, maybe even better,” he says.

If you’re keen to experience a trip with more punch than Zeus’s thunderbolts, start here.

Best for: Instagrammers

You’ve seen the postcards, but nothing prepares you for the raw intensity and devastating beauty of Santorini, the supermodel of the Cyclades. For many, Greece is Santorini, with its dramatic caldera cliffs rearing from the Aegean and sugar-cube houses dribbling seawards.

What those postcards don’t show is jostling Instagrammers twirling in ball gowns and taxi traffic jams as sunset seekers converge on the same spots simultaneously.

Which means if keen to Instagram, you need to … get away from the Instagrammers. Luckily this is easier than you think.

Lefteris Karipidis of boutique guiding company Blue Shades of Greece says there’s so much more to Santorini than the spots everyone visits. He leads guests beyond the razzle-dazzle towns of Oia and Imerovigli to interior villages such Megalochori – dripping in fuchsia bougainvillea – to Akrotiri (an archaeological site to rival Pompeii) and up behind the Akrotiri Lighthouse for a sunset-lighthouse double whammy tableau.

Push the boat out literally, with Renieris Sailing Centre . Nose onto a private mooring by volcanic Palea Kameni island, smack bang mid-caldera just an hour’s sail from Santorini, for a private Poseidon adventure. 

Best for: Food

Costas Yiannakodimos considers Crete one of his personal favourite areas. Kayla Itsines is also a superfan. “The produce is super fresh and they believe in farm to table,” she says.

This is the reason Melburnian Kelly Michelakis, whose family hails from Chania in the island’s northwest, hosts food tours and cooking classes here with The Hellenic Odyssey . “Whether it’s the climate, the quality and nurturing of the soil or the upholding of traditional methods of cultivation and harvesting, the produce just tastes so much better,” she says.

Simon Gloftis, of award-winning Hellenika in Brisbane, says: “Getting your fork and pushing it down through some beautiful barrel-aged feta cheese into an olive oil-drenched Greek salad will always be special to me, and what’s more, will always be Greece on a plate.”

Other holiday ingredients include farmers’ markets, a 4000-year-old olive tree in Ano Vouves, the pink sand Elafonisi beach and hikes in the Samaria Gorge.

But Kelly counts spontaneous, philotimo-based experiences as highlights. “Locals will invite you into their home, offer you a shot of tsikoudia (raki), share their food with you and send you off with a take home gift too!” 

Knossos, near the capital, Heraklion, is a knockout. This relic of the Bronze Age was once home to the mighty Minoan civilisation, which dominated the region more than 5000 years ago.

Best for: Play and parties

Chef Curtis Stone rates Mykonos as one of his clan’s favourite stops. “Mykonos felt almost otherworldly,” he says. “And we’d often say that the nights were even better than the days. The sunsets were unreal and my kids still talk about them to this day!”

The island’s daytime attractions – pristine beaches and more beach clubs than you can throw a glow stick at – mean there is something for everyone. But it is best known as a night-loving celebrity magnet.

There’s chic SantAnna ; the Kardashians and Bella Hadid head to Nammos ; and Scorpios (owned by exclusive London club Soho House) is where to find Australian DJ Kaz James, who says playing there “is my favourite – it feels like home”. When it comes to the business side of the Australian club scene, there are few bigger names than Peter “Raff” Raftopoulos, promoter and co-founder of OneLove music group and the Stereosonic dance festival. He has been visiting Mykonos for more than 30 years.

“Mykonos has changed a lot,” he says. “It’s becoming more commercial, in a similar way to Byron Bay.”

But still, the island life is irresistible. “A perfect day in Mykonos can go many ways,” he explains, “from a wake-up swim on Paraga beach, coffee, then back to the beach, lunch and a swim at Kiki’s, sunset drinks and dinner at Scorpios and dance the night away!”

Save up for sunbeds. A cabana at Scorpios costs 140 euro ($209) (accommodating four people), without drinks. On a budget? Paradise Beach has one of the nicest beaches on the island, 10-euro sunbeds and 10-euro takeaway pizza. A champagne lifestyle on a beer budget.

Best for: Adventure

This is not only one of the largest Greek islands, at 429sq km, but also the greenest, with lush mountains, gushing streams and pristine beaches.

Australian Peta Gambell was lured not only by the geography but the island’s authentic ways and community, creating Cycladic Spaces to help small, independent and unique businesses in Greece and travellers connect. “Our spaces are not necessarily high-end luxury, it’s about style, simplicity and tradition mixed together,” she says of her curated portfolio of accommodation and experiences.

While experienced windsurfers and kiters convene at Flisvos Sports Club to harness meltemi winds, beginners glide in the little windsurf nursery in a sheltered bay. A land lubber? The club also offers a range of mountain biking tours.

There’s also sailing, hiking, SUPing the gin-clear waters at Hawaii Beach, exploring mountain towns, and a newly renovated 520BC Temple of Demeter, a precursor to Athens’ Parthenon. 

Visit Naxos Town; it’s slightly gritty, but a living, beating old town, perfect in its imperfection. Also hunt down the southern outdoor graffiti park in an abandoned hotel, gifted to international artists, for a shot of Berlin meets Greece.

Best for: Culture

Greece gave us thinkers, philosophy, writing and schools. So defy any temptation to bypass Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities, where democracy was invented and Western civilisation founded. No biggie.

Visit the Parthenon on the Acropolis (go early to avoid all that dazzling white marble at midday), the interactive Acropolis Museum and the Theatre of Dionysus (the birthplace of Greek drama), and dynamic, modern Athens is just as fascinating.

Cocktails with a view of the Acropolis? We know you want them, and there’s a plethora of rooftop bars where you can have them, from A for Athens to cool cats Bios and Ciel. Catch a Saturday market and hike Mount Lycabettus for a picnic, or recline at outdoor cinemas such as Thision – you might even run into fashion designer Alex Perry, who’s among the Aussies with Athenian boltholes.

Twenty minutes from downtown is the Athens Riviera, a little-known 30km stretch of taverna-studded coastline including Athenians’ favourite hangouts of Glyfada and Vouliagmeni.

Folegandros

Best for: authenticity.

The same volcanic explosion which formed Santorini also formed Folegandros, 45 minutes away by ferry. Hence it also has a stunning caldera, but in the labyrinthine clifftop Chora (old town) there’s not a selfie stick to be seen. There’s still a dash of sophisticated flair, but for an authentic slice of slow Greece, park your tripod here.

Best for: Stunning secrets

It’s easy to see why Tom Hanks bought a house in the hills here; leaving the main town, the landscape immediately reverts to rustic beauty. Faneromeni is one of best beaches in Greece (a big call) and 20 minutes down the road is Hanks’ favourite seafood eatery, Captain Pipino’s . Come hungry. 

Best for: The easy life

Even for those who consider themselves non-cruisers, there is something Homer-esque about island wandering. Especially on board a luxury small ship from a line such as Ponant . An itinerary highlight is navigating the tricky Corinth Canal separating the Peloponnese from the continent. 

See also: 

Greece's best-kept secret island

This Greek Island is Jessica Mauboy’s second home

I hated Corfu, but I had it all wrong

The largest of Greece’s Ionian Islands offers sun-soaked days filled with natural wonders, dramatic landscapes and delicious food. 

Steeped in history, the Greek capital is surprisingly hip, with edgy cafes and cool rooftop bars.

Greek locals are rallying together to kick a plague of sun loungers off their beaches. 

10 unforgettable things to do in Mykonos

From galleries to cooking classes, there’s more than meets the eye on this Grecian gem.

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The best Greek Island hotels for 2024

By Becky Lucas

If it has been a minute since you've enjoyed a slice of island life, then you're in for a treat in 2024. New stays, from world-class resorts to boutique hideaways, are ready to welcome guests with open arms, sweeping azure views and the freshest of seafood. Some are adult-only havens ideal for that postponed honeymoon, others are designed with families in mind with spacious suites and entertaining kid's clubs. Whatever your style, there's certainly no shortage of choice. To steer you in the right direction, Condé Nast Traveller's editors have hand picked their favourite hotels on the Greek Islands.

How we choose the best Greek Island hotels

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service – as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.

For more recommendations, see our guides to the various islands:

• The best hotels in Santorini
• The best hotels in Mykonos
• The best hotels in Crete
• The best hotels in Corfu
• The best hotels in Paros
• The best hotels in Kefalonia

Poseidonion Grand Hotel, Spetses

Featured in our Gold List of the best hotels in the world 2024

Looking across the water from Porto Heli to Spetses, the first thing you notice is the Poseidonion, jutting out like a vast, immaculately frosted cake above the shore. On opening in 1914, it was the first hotel in the Balkans with hot water, and was constructed with steel from Germany , wood from Romania and limestone from Bulgaria: only the best would do, whatever the cost. Years of decay followed, and there are stories of bathrooms collapsing down three floors into the lobby. But now, fully restored and extended by its owner, Emmanuel Vordonis, it is, once again, immensely glamorous and international. It has the feel of a very wealthy and adored Edwardian maiden aunt, taking a detour from the usual Côte d’Azur to enjoy instead the delights of a Greek island. There are rooms with sea views and garden views, pool suites, royal suites and a Tower Room – all in a classic pale palette that reflects the island light to such an extent that you have the suspicion, now and again, that you’re somehow floating. The seafood is excellent, and dining on the outside terrace you really feel the electricity, communal warmth and humour of this very special island. From around £596. Antonia Quirke

Porto Zante, Zakynthos

It’s the steps down to the stone-clad spa here that I remember most clearly. Perhaps because I was eight months pregnant, and hyper-aware, but mainly because they were straight from a fairy tale: so dinky and intriguing, paved into the hillside and bordered by lush Mediterranean foliage. I’d walk down them to a different treatment every day, as per the family-owned hotel’s advice – gradually unwinding, resetting, reviving, listening and watching the waves of the Ionian Sea through huge open windows. Porto Zante is ideal for a babymoon. The villas are vast, design-driven but ultra-comfortable, with a temperature-controlled pool and a personal concierge, who embraced us and said, “You are our babies now”. Few places in Europe are as private or have service levels to match this. Want to eat from the Japanese-Asian menu at Maya, but in the Greek-Mediterranean Club House so you can listen to the resident pianist? Done. Need some time out from your toddler, but they’re resisting the kids’ club? The determined staff will have them giggling in no time. Are you keen to explore the surrounding sea and villages or the nearby city? Itineraries can be arranged on the day and then adapted from the four-by-four or yacht. It’s no wonder that presidents, royals and cultural icons come here to disappear down those magical steps whenever they need to lighten their mental load. Becky Lucas

Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, Mykonos

Featured on our Gold List of the best hotels in the world 2023

When I chose hotels for honeymoon ing in southern Greece, where my mom's family is from, it was important to me that I support Greek-owned hotels in the aftermath of the pandemic. I was ecstatic to discover that Santa Marina, the beloved five-star resort on Mykonos , remains owned by the same local family that opened it four decades ago. The only resort on the island with its own private stretch of sandy beach – and on calm and sought-after Ornos Bay, no less – Santa Marina includes 101 seaview rooms and suites with private plunge pools, plus a selection of 13 sprawling villas, a cove-nestled beach club shielded from the mighty Cycladic winds, and two infinity pools to mix up the lounging scenery. Two restaurants, including sushi spot Buddha-Bar Beach Mykonos and Mykonos Social by Jason Atherton, serve inventive plates ranging from Asian-inspired poke and ceviches led by the Mediterranean’s abundant fish, to taverna-style dishes: slow-cooked lamb, sun-dried grilled octopus, classic horiatiki, and bread baskets served with traditional dips like taramosalata (roe puree) and htipiti (spicy whipped feta). The on-site spa has a traditional hammam as well as aromatherapy massages, medical-grade facials, and a sauna that are well worth breaking from the sun and sand for an afternoon. But the real magic of Santa Marina is in the simple pleasures afforded by its fabled location – sipping assyrtiko from a shady cabana while the mega yachts go by, you’ll forget all about the island's hard-partying reputation.  Shannon McMahon

Pnoé, Crete

The adult-only retreat

Translating simply as ‘breath’ in Greek,  Pnoé  is a stylish fly-and-flop adults-only designer beach resort with a strong wellness offering and an easy-going private-club vibe. Just ten minutes from Heraklion airport, this debut hotel concept has an edgy crispness, with a pleasing nod to the dramatic Minoan architecture celebrated in Cretan history. The open-plan architecture provides all-day sunshine with 60 private pool suites from a central courtyard with an almond-shaped pool at its heart. Spacious suites are all decorated in the same earthy palate reflecting the surrounding rocky landscape, and graceful eyelines have been carefully considered throughout. Pnoé’s ethos revolves around selecting the highest offerings from ‘home-grown’  Crete , backed up by partnering with some of the island’s chief players, namely Crete’s best chef Panagiotis Magganas. Fullness of flavour guaranteed freshness, and minimal food miles are guaranteed, along with conscientious service that’s setting a new standard on Karteros beach. For more, read the full Pnoé hotel review. Sarah Siese

F Zeen, Kefalonia

A simple yet sumptuous island bolthole with wellness at its core

Family-owned F Zeen, a smart and earthy adult-only retreat, does a stellar job at showcasing its cinematic setting. Along the steep and verdant hills of Livathos – a pocket-sized seaside town of pastel-hued houses looking onto a bay – the hotel splays out in natural-stone villas and sun-bleached terraces with rustic tables and pools, all of which command views of the Ionian Sea and the crimson streaks cast across it at sunset. The organic, health-focused outlook is evident across all aspects of the refuge: in the locavore mezze and vegetables plucked from the kitchen garden; in the natural colours and fabrics in the understated but sophisticated villa bedrooms; in the roster of fitness classes, from al-fresco yoga to guided gym sessions, and, of course, in the spa where Greek herbs and seaweed-infused products are folded into sun-kissed skin.

Guests recline on soft, whitewashed sunbeds while dipping warm, olive-doused pitta into bowls of creamy houmous. Active types drift back from paddleboarding sessions along the beach for cool fruit smoothies. Wafts of thyme, cypress and salt fill the evening air at Selini, the hotel’s open-air restaurant where pretty plates of lemon-drizzled calamari, lamb kotzi and salads honour both Hellenic traditions and modern palates. F Zeen’s power to disarm the most overloaded visitor lies in this clever blend of luxury and health – where Pilates and meditation followed by herb-steeped cocktails and rosemary flatbreads with lashings of tzatziki is all food for the soul. Rosalyn Wikeley

Summer Senses Luxury Resort, Paros

The Paros escape

One of Paros' more recent additions, Summer Senses Luxury Resort has 100 contemporary rooms ranging from deluxe hideouts to suites with private pools. Two large outdoor pools, a spa and a fitness centre are among the five-star offerings, with fine dining options including a collaboration with Michelin-starred Athens restaurant Hytra. The sandy stretches of Punda Beach, with its bars, DJs and pool parties, is a three minute walk away. Paros' lively capital Parikia can be reached by car in less than half an hour, with some of the most picturesque Cycladic villages just a stone’s throw away.

At this get-away-from-it-all haven, guests are looked after with the utmost care and attention. Visitors are invited to drift from one temptation to the next – from an utterly restorative spa treatment to a bespoke cocktail by the pool with infinite views of the Aegean sea. A meal at fine dining restaurant Galazia Hytra is imperative, with generous yet refined modern dishes served in the most stunning setting under the Mediterranean stars. Each thoughtful detail at Summer Senses reflects the hotel’s commitment to offering the ultimate Cycladic island escape. The service is faultless and every feature is perfectly calibrated to ensure guests feel rested and refreshed. A true Grecian paradise. Anna Gladwin

Once in Mykonos Luxury Resort

A trendy chilled out escape

New to the scene in Mykonos, this swish spot built into the steep hillside of the cosy western bay has some of the best views on the island. Swim up to bedrooms along a private pool or dip a toe into the rooftop infinity pool, which has a sunken bar and floating sun beds. Sleek white interiors and pale marble floors run through 59  suites , which have hammam walk-in rain showers, crisp white bedding, and a terrace for sipping sea view sundowners. Couples and dapper partygoers are all looking for a chilled hideaway here. Staff are friendly, attentive and know all guests by name – they won’t forget how you want your coffee in the morning.

Executive chef, Kyriakos Sotiriou serves innovative dishes, taking inspiration from his travels and incorporating traditional Greek flavours. We had to refrain from ordering the hummus with every meal. Supper is best taken on the terrace at golden hour when the sun is sinking behind the craggy hillside dotted with bright-white villas and windmills. You chose this hotel to quietly laze, chill out, and nurse off the ouzo from the night before.  Sophie Knight

A cool, laidback summer hangout

Pure relaxation is difficult to find, but it’s near-impossible not to lean into the chilled-out vibe you feel immediately as you enter Oku’s open reception. Inspired by the relaxed Greek way of life, Oku aims to combine local culture with relaxation, and easily succeeds. Somehow there are 100 rooms in the hotel, but it feels more like 20; the property is wonderfully private, and Greek-style whitewashed buildings blend seamlessly into the open landscape. Guests can choose from rooms with private or semi-private pools (shared with two other rooms, but surprisingly personal), or opt for a larger villa with a roof terrace and sea views. Special mention to the showers, which are some of the best I’ve used in a hotel thanks to the strong waterfall current and moody, stone walls that lean into the minimal aesthetic.

Food at Oku, overseen by executive Chef Mark Vaessen, is impeccable and unapologetically Greek. Salads are topped with crumbly feta and tomatoes that burst in the mouth, while the tzatziki is so good it's impossible not to order a bowl at every meal. Take your dinners outside where you can watch the sunset – which sets over nearby Kalimnos and is guaranteed to be one of the most stunning you've seen – over the hotel's private beach, with a cocktail made at the bar in-hand. Abigail Malbon

Stacey Lastoe

Alessia Armenise

Hannah Summers

Sarah James

MarBella Elix, Perdika

Featured on our 2022 Hot List of the best new hotels in the world

It might not be located actually on the islands but from its hilltop location, MarBella Elix affords otherworldly views of Paxos, Antipaxos, Corfu, and the glistening Ionian. Elix’s reception is like a sort of celestial spa, with barn-high ceilings and windows that frame the infinity view. Colorful tapestries hang throughout, infusing the place with local artisanal history, complementing the overall sunshiny modern-luxe feel. From the very popular Greek and Mediterranean buffet to the even more creative Greek fine dining, the food and drink are uniformly local and delicious. Available activities range from kayaking into hidden bays and mountain and coastal biking to alfresco yoga sessions, sailing courses, and snorkelling around underwater meadows. For more, see our full MarBella Elix hotel review . Becky Lucas

Domes Zeen Chania, Crete

The multi-gen crowd pleaser

Originally launched as a Casa Cook hotel last summer, Domes Zeen Chania has since changed hands but remains one of our favourite family-friendly hotels in Europe . Palm Springs -style concrete villas designed by Athenian architect group K-Studio – also responsible for Mykonos beach club Scorpios – dot the hillside towards the sea, and there’s a black-tiled pool surrounded by thatched parasols for snoozing under. Some villas have private pools and there’s also a smart spa using Elemis products. The kids’ club keeps little ones entertained, plus guests can take a boat trip or venture into pretty Chania.

Casita Casita, Rhodes

A chilled-out peaceful hotel

Lovely, low-key Lindos, on the south-east coast of Rhodes, tends to be known for two things: the hilltop acropolis with its fourth-century bc temples and the fact that Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour used to have a house here. Beyond that, the fishing village has remained largely the preserve of summering Greek families taking over crumbling villas, so when this bohemian hangout opened quietly last summer, it turned heads. The former nightclub had been abandoned for more than a decade, and architect Vana Pernari found it by chance. Her studio specialises in big projects such as Casa Cook half an hour north and Cretan Malia Park on Crete , but when she began the restoration in 2019, the plan was to create a holiday home for friends. And that remains the spirit of seven-bedroom Casita Casita – the vibe is more house party than hotel stay. Its subtle and knocked-back palette ensures that the richness of the surroundings takes centre stage, and the barren, rocky landscape is broken up only by heady-smelling herbs and gnarled olive trees under which breakfasts of fresh fruit, homemade cakes and Rhodian honey are served.

As you lie by the swimming pool looking up to the castle within the acropolis, the only sounds are the rustling leaves, the cicadas’ sonata and bleats of goats and, if you listen very carefully, the waves – sandy Palestra Beach is a three-minute walk away. Inside, each room references Pernari’s travels around the world; there are carpets from nomadic tribes, Suzani throws, ceramics and vintage vases from various bazaars. The styling is as much about form as function, with crisp cotton sheets, organic mattresses and Apivita bath products made with medicinal plants. Time slows down here, and things just feel simpler – it’s a sensation that makes you wish summer would stretch on and on. George Lagoudakis

Angsana, Corfu

An Asian-inspired stay in Corfu

With sweeping views over the Ionian Bay, it’s easy to see why Banyan Tree Group chose a hill in Benitses in Corfu as the location of its first venture into Europe. The result is Angsana, a slick resort that combines Asian-inspired design with all the hallmarks of a luxurious Mediterranean stay – private beach, beach club, yoga deck and a spa. A generously sized world class spa at that, home to a hammam, wellness pool, 11 treatment rooms, gym with new Technogym equipment and a 25m indoor pool. Then there’s the outdoor pool and cabana set ups – quite possibly the most photogenic on the island.

In the rooms, bathrooms are majestic with egg-shaped baths and floor-to-ceiling marble. Geometric orange kimonos with matching slippers enhance the overall Japanese aesthetic. When it’s time for supper, there are three options. Koh, which serves new twists on Asian classics, the upscale Italian-with-a-local-twist restaurant Botrini and a rooftop bar that’s the place to be for a sundowner. Or whenever you want – the resort is open year round. For more, see our full Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa review.

Ypseli Anafi's Hive, Anafi

A secret escape with dramatic sea views

A tiny outcrop on the rim of the Cyclades , east of over-visited Santorini and facing the Cretan Sea, the island haven of Anafi is a well-kept secret. Legend has it that Apollo revealed it to Jason and the Argonauts by lighting up the stormy sky with his glimmering golden bow. This new opening is on its southern shore, where all the best beaches are found. Athenian owner Antonis Chalaris spent childhood holidays here playing in the barn of his beekeeper grandfather, and what he has created now is a unique spot surrounded by sun-baked scrubland.

Named after the traditional pottery beehives slotted into stone walls, Ypseli has eight rooms laid out with a great sense of balance and proportion in effortless Aegean style. Mustard linens spice up peaceful whitewashed spaces while basket lampshades cast woven shadows on walls covered in traditional crochet pieces and framed photographs of Anafi. The reverence for crafts is also evident in the covetable organic shapes created by a local ceramicist and displayed in the kitchen between flowerpots filled with oregano and thyme. All private terraces as well as the pool face out to a dramatic sea view dominated by Mount Kalamos, the Mediterranean’s second-highest rock after Gibraltar , and Katsouni beach is a five-minute stroll away for morning dips in the pristine surf. Anafi was always on the radar for in-the-know Greeks looking for a hazy escape from the crowds, but with Ypseli it has opened its arms to savvy travellers from further afield too. Isabelle Zigliara

Kalesma, Mykonos

For his new-wave retreat, restaurateur Aby Saltiel secured a stellar spot between the beaches of Ornos and Agios Ioannis (of Shirley Valentine fame), a world away from the busy thrum of town. But rather than a trad Cycladic reimagining, he and business partners Makis Kousathanas and Sofia Kousathana have pulled together something altogether cooler. When you add fashion designer Rick Owens’s furniture and Serbian Aleksandar Vac’s artwork, the atmosphere takes on a certain edge. That’s not to say it is intimidating. Kalesma means invitation, and everything here is to be used, enjoyed or sat on, even if your bikini bottoms are wet from the pool . And the thrust for the owners is still very much a celebration of their Greek roots and local craftsmanship.

In the dappled shade of a pergola is Pere Ubu restaurant, where guests chat while sipping spirulina cocktails or tucking into cauliflower tarama and grilled octopus. Couples from New York exchange notes about the Hamptons ; a photographer paces around trying to capture the light. The mix is eclectic – aesthetes and party lovers, as well as those looking for some downtime.

But there’s no hierarchy or competition to get the best suite or villa: all 3 types of accommodation – including the larger villas that sleep up to 8 guests – have their own pool, with interiors designed by Vaggelis Bonios of Studio Bonarchi and architecture by hip Athens-based K-Studio in milky stone and sugar-cane-brown wood, and in a nod to island tradition, the ceilings are made from osier willow. Once a week, on the sunset side, everyone gathers around the fire-pit and a DJ plays a few sets. IZ

The Aristide, Syros

An ambitious eco-hotel

This aristocratic and eccentric nine-room hotel was launched last summer in the port of Hermoupolis. Slightly set back from the water on a quiet street, the seashell-pink neoclassical building was constructed for a wealthy textile merchant in the 1920s and later sold to a shipowner before being transformed into the headquarters of the Cycladic tax authorities. It then lay empty until ex-Londoner, economist and writer Oana Aristide and her sister Jasmin, a doctor, reimagined it as the smartest place to bed down on Syros . They had both fallen in love with the island and on the spur of the moment decided to buy a holiday villa, but ended up with this grand townhouse instead. Despite having never run a hotel before, the duo, who happily describe themselves as amateurs, have created something wonderfully unexpected.

References run the gamut from pop to baroque with velvet, oak herringbone-parquet floors and exquisite bathrooms decked out in Greek marble from the same quarries that supplied the Acropolis, Buckingham Palace and the Louvre. Portraits from the owners’ contemporary art collection, including the soulful Anton Chekhov on the Road by Riccardo Vecchio, line the stairway and salon. And instead of the white-and-blue or grey palettes of most Greek-island hideouts, here the colours range from intense duck-egg blue to soft powdery peach; the lobby, flanked by doric columns, is painted a majestic pistachio green and the bar is a den of cardinal red. It’s a splendid restoration of one of the regional capital’s historic buildings – no mean feat for a seasoned hotelier, and quite extraordinary for first-timers. A strong eco commitment and upcoming artist’s residency show that their ambitions go well beyond a simple B&B. IZ

The Rooster, Antiparos

Featured on our 2022 Hot List of the best new hotels in the world  

‘I came here 10 summers ago from Mykonos and never really left,’ says Athanasia Comninos. Wearing tinkling gold anklets and an embroidered waistcoat, she embodies the aesthetic of this boho hideout, which has been incubating under her rigorous watch for seven years. Although Comninos comes from a shipping family, she always wanted to be a hotelier. She is equally determined to preserve what drew her to Antiparos in the first place – untouched landscapes of wind-tangled cedar, sheltered coves unblemished by sunbeds and a relaxed vibe. The island has changed in the past decade – there are more chic shops, oversized four-wheel-drives and minimalist villas (Tom Hanks owns one) – but essentially it’s still the same go-slow speck in the Aegean.

Set in a gently sloping valley of dry-stone terraces, The Rooster makes a virtue of stillness. Even the smallest suites are the size of summer houses, and interiors are spare but soft, with honey-toned walls, handmade driftwood four-posters, Turkish ikat cushions and leather ottomans from Indonesia. Outdoor showers are enclosed by walls made of locally quarried stone and lush greenery, and swallows nest in the drought-resistant gardens. Calm staff in billowing linen hum past on electric scooters. A footpath leads to Livadia beach, a wild bay shored up by drifts of seaweed, and the spa delivers authentic Ayurvedic treatments and incredibly effective facials. Food is unpretentiously wholesome, and much of it is sourced from the fledgling organic farm: tahini granola with lavender petals for breakfast; fluffy mizithra cheese with blood orange and toasted coriander seeds for lunch; tingly Margaritas at sunset in the mellow outdoor bar. You’ll leave feeling grounded yet unfathomably lighter.' Rachel Howard

Bill & Coo Villas, Mykonos

Sleek, crisp Grecian villas

'When the original Bill & Coo opened its doors in 2006 just above Mykonos town, it made a big impact. Boutique stays were only just starting to take root on the island, and here was one that connected umbilically to the thrills of the buzzy capital with its shopping and restaurants while also providing a retreat from it all. It has offered a point of reference for many subsequent arrivals, and rather than resting on its laurels, the brand launched Coast Suites at Agios Ioannis beach in 2016 and this year sees the addition of three one-bedroom villas to the side of the Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge hotel.

It’s an alluring set-up, more private and peaceful than the hotel, with space to squeeze in a couple of children too, and yet is just steps from the tasting menu at chef Aggelos Bakopoulos' elegant restaurant, the spoiling spa and all the other bells and whistles. As is to be expected, service is finger-clicking quick, and the design crisp and contemporary. The concept of award-winning architects Divercity was to capture the laidback essence of a beach hangout with the textures and colours of sea and sand. Bright light floods in through huge windows and fabric panels in geometric shapes, inspired by the sun’s reflection on the waves, are repeated inside and out on the ceilings and in little seating nooks. Pools at the villas are backed by feathery grasses dancing in Mykonos’s famous wind. And it goes without saying that the views – the silhouette of the windmills and, just behind the low stone wall, the ocean stretching away to the horizon – are terrific.' IZ

Andronis Arcadia, Santorini

The best spot for a sundowner

Low-slung white-washed villas tumbling down to the sea provide bags of space here. On an island that’s usually packed to the brim with honeymooners and sunset seekers, each villa has its own private balcony and pool facing the ocean – which means you can lap up Santorini’s beautiful scenery without another person in sight. There’s a beach-club -style pool and bar, and a very clever spa, too.

Bill & Coo Coast, Mykonos

Athens-based architect firm K-Studio were behind this beachy Agios Ioannis hangout, the sister spot to long-standing favourite Bill & Coo about two miles away in Mykonos Town. There are 15 bedrooms made out of rugged stone, bleached wood and cast iron, all with private terraces and a calm colour palette. The main pool has views of Agios Ioannis' Greek orthodox church, and there's a seafront taverna serving plates of sardines on bread and slow-cooked rooster pasticada . For a more elevated supper, flag down the five-minute transfer to the original Bill & Coo for tasting menus with a Greek influence.

Verina Astra, Sifnos

An affordable boutique hotel with incredible views

With 235 churches across the island, Sifnos has a blue dome or white bell tower at practically every turn. And at Verina Astra, there’s a sleek terrace with a stone-lined swimming pool, from which windmills also dot the view, and on a clear day, Amorgos defines the horizon. In the bedrooms, whitewashed rock walls and bamboo ceilings are strung with rattan lampshades and there are ceramic vases and piles of grey-and-white striped cushions – everything is stylish and smart without a wildflower out of place. And in the restaurant, you’ll see waiters scurrying past the tables to pick rosemary, thyme and oregano to add flavour to plates moments before they are served. Burnt aubergine comes with walnut vinegar and smoked octopus – there’s a smoking hut on-site – while fresh, homemade spaghetti is simple, with parsley and bottarga.

Less than a mile away is Artemenos, which looks like a typical Greek-island postcard with yet more churches and cafés churning out fried shrimp, sesame-coated cheese and chickpea balls. And about 30-minutes along the coastal path is Kastro and its legendary rum-toting Kavos Sunrise bar – the winding alleys with tumbling bougainvillaea and the Mamma Mia -famed Church of the Seven Martyrs are the stuff of fairy tales. Read the full Verina Astra hotel, Sifnos review . Tabitha Joyce

Beach House, Antiparos

A barefoot side to the Cyclades

For those seeking a slow pace on holiday, this simple barefoot offering in the harder-to-reach parts of the Aegean scratches an adventurous itch. Antiparos is barely more than a dusty islet, half an hour by ferry from Paros. It’s the antithesis of Crete’s package trips, Mykonos ’s party-hard beach clubs, or the teenage rite-of-passage scene in Corfu ’s Kassiopi.

Beach House is a Cycladic villa right on a sheltered bay on the south-east coast – a rustic set-up where good vibes rule. The nine rooms are simple, with blue shutters and bougainvillaea-framed terraces, and the three family suites are the ones to book. Mornings on the beach are especially lovely. Lunches and suppers showcase authentic food with a deft hand: catch of the day, octopus risotto, seafood spaghetti, plus a marginally less fishy children’s menu. Yoga sessions and boat rides are available; the clear sea is great for swimming and snorkelling (there’s no pool). It feels like a mini Formentera . Read more in our guide to Paros and Antiparos.

Ammos Hotel, Chania, Crete

A laid-back family hideout

This is a feel-good hotel without any formality; most of the staff have been around for years and many guests are regulars, which comes as no surprise as the place is astonishingly good value. Owner Nikos Tsepetis, a self-confessed design junkie, has a black book packed with insider information about the region's stunning beaches and remote mountain villages, plus details on where to go in the lively Venetian harbour of Chania.

Tables at the laidback restaurant spill out past the swimming pool and down to a shallow, sandy beach, where the hotel has its own sunbeds and umbrellas. Bedrooms in the low-rise, sugarcube-shaped building are perky, with bright, colour-blocked walls, Marimekko cushions of clashing patterns and African-print Moroso stools adding a grown-up touch. The best are the deluxe sea-view studios where you can watch the sunset from your balcony and nod off to the sound of the waves. Read the full review in our round-up of the best beach hotels in Europe .

Parīlio, Paros

The affordable secret

Away from the buzz of better-known Greek Islands, Paros sits further out in the Cyclades – a neighbour to thrumming Santorini and party-happy Mykonos. Parīlio, which opened in 2019 on the north-east coast, has guestrooms set around a pool, with abstract art above the beds. There’s a clever restaurant, Mr E, on site, which puts an international spin on Greek favourites such as bream baked in lemon leaves with chickpea stew. It feels like a steal for the price (about £190 for a double room), and we named it one of the best new hotels in the world in our Hot List 2020 .

Istoria Santorini

The designer digs

Istoria means ‘story’ in Greek. And when Antonis and Kalia Eliopoulos drove down a narrow track to Perivolos beach to explore socialite Christina Tassou’s abandoned mansion and stables, they saw the chance to tell a very different one; not of Santorini’s hotel-clogged western caldera but of human obsession and the wild, black sands of the remote south-east. At the age of 15, Tassou caught the attentions of a Saudi sovereign, 35 years her senior, at the Greek royal court where her father was equerry. The king doggedly pursued her across Europe but to no avail. To trim a very long tale, she eventually escaped here and seems to have preferred horses: her home was hung with oil paintings of her five steeds.

Captivated by her epic life, the maverick hoteliers behind Mystique and hilltop Vedema engaged Athens -based Interior Design Laboratorium to create a barefoot retreat, a homage less to Tassou than to organic storytelling by design. The departure from the whitewashed hotels and jet-skis of Oia, and the physical isolation here, are reinforced by a stripped-down ethos which allows the original stone structure – and wilderness itself – to dominate. Its translucent waters are arch-framed from 12 suites, six of which are converted from the original stables, where nature’s palette is repainted in blush plaster, polished cement floors and clay-toned linens. On a taverna-less part of the coast , quantity is replaced with an impressive strike of quality at Mr E, the invention of Noma alum Alexandros Tsiotinis. Ingredients for his re-tellings of classics are sourced from Tassou’s former gardens. Her spirit remains in little reminders: water troughs and bridles are the hotel’s art . But the showpiece here is the 30-metre slate pool , with the caldera-rivalling drama of monolithic Mesa Vouno range rising behind. It’s said to be the largest pool on the island – or perhaps that’s just a fable. Either way, Istoria opens a new chapter in Santorini’s story. By Roxy Kavousi-Walker

Canaves Oia Epitome, Santorini

The family favourite

Space is rare in Oia; a commodity on the brink of consumption. Every square inch of cliffside here on the caldera, a giant’s bite into coastline, has been gobbled up by immaculately iced cake-like hotels jostling for a ringside seat. Yes, when it comes to Corbusier-lauded Cycladic minimalism, it’s poster-framed perfection. Yes, it’s all very pretty in a chaotic sweet shop kind of way – but a little claustrophobic. Canaves Oia Epitome turns its back on all of that. The fourth property from the Chaidemenos family opened in May 2018, a mile north at Ammoudi Bay, facing away from the caldera in a brazen flouting of conventional hotel wisdom.

In 1985, Yiannis and Anna were among the first to lure travellers to the Santorini fishing village with views that captured the very curve and expanse of the planet. The two cliffside caves they converted into minimalist dens for neo-troglodytes became Canaves Oia, and then the all-white Cycladic hotel brand which set the tone of the island’s smart scene for the next three decades. Now in charge, their sons Markos and Alexandros bring a stylistic gear change. For Epitome, the group’s first family-friendly hotel , they called in K-Studio, the hip home-grown designers behind Mykonos ’s Bill & Coo Coast and ultra-cool Scorpios. The open layout is liberating: almost all sky, sea and pool with 24 quasi-neolithic, low volcanic stone cubes camouflaged into the rock face. These are brain-coolingly expansive villas . The huge Aqua Retreat has an aquarium-like window in the lower bedroom casting an ethereal blue light from the depths of the pool. There are plenty of places for families to escape one another; the black sands of Katharos beach are just a teen-stroll away. Swirls of tangerine in the sky signal the time to regather. The lesser-spotted sunsets here are somehow better than the ones at Oia. The ones over the caldera no longer seem worth the price. By Roxy Kavousi-Walker

Olea All Suite Hotel, Zakynthos

The zen master

This opening marks something of a sea change for Zakynthos : a calm, smart design hotel, masterminded by slick Athens- Stockholm studio Block 722, heralds a new grown-up era for the roaring beach-party island. In some ways, it’s also a symbol of the resurgence of Greece. Plans for its creation, on a hillside above the north-coast town of Tsilivi, go back 20 years – to the decade before the global financial crisis curled its fingers around the throat of Europe. When its grip was finally released in 2018, the hotel was built within a staggering six months; the arrival coincided more or less with the completion of Greece’s final financial bail-out.

For owner Venia Xenou, part of the powerful local family behind 12 island hotels including Zante Maris Suites , the vision of what Olea would become didn’t dim during the intervening period. Perhaps because the vision was so strong. At first look, it could be a classical Hellenic city with whitewashed temples which appear to float on a terraced 4,000-square-metre lake . But the real art here is in the landscaping which allows water, and a certain energy, to flow seamlessly through tranquil rooms and subtly interconnected plunge pools. Inside, hard-lined concrete minimalism is softened with dark wood, lending a little dash of the Japanese while hanging egg-chairs and rattan inject the tropical. It’s all about flow here: indoor-outdoor flow; go-with-the-flow jumpsuits in the boutique; and yoga flow for morning asanas in the spa. This is the new Zen Zakynthos, an island upwardly reincarnated. And even if at night the faint sounds of karaoke bars can be heard from Tsilivi, the party on this island seems to be changing its tune. By Becky Lucas

Katikies, Mykonos

The after-party pad

Few consider Mykonos their Aegean go-to for social reclusion. But among the island’s more wholesome secrets are its covert refuges – even Dionysus needed a break from the fun. Most discreet yet on point is the new Katikies Mykonos, ensconced on a misshapen beanbag of land on the south-west coast, just east of the island of Delos, where the god’s toga-clad cult engaged in rituals of ecstasy. It opened in June 2018 as the equally shy, 30-year-younger sister to the adored Santorini original – a local design pioneer in its day – and was an instant classic, recalling the go-slow, get-lost spirit of pre-1950s Cyclades that second-wave bohemians fell in love with. It’s even hard to find: just a hamlet-like stack of pristine sugar cubes above Agios Ioannis’s quiet smile of sand. In fact, owner Nikolaos Pagonis’s amphitheatrical layout conceals 35 rooms with private terraces and plunge pools within a labyrinth of alleyways, creating illusions of space, solitude – and that little thrill of discovery.

There is a surprise at every turn: a spa, a boutique (with a judicious edit of Vitamin A bikinis) and two infinity pools extending an unmarred cyan sightline to Delos, angled just so, to be sheltered from the relentless Meltemi winds. Rooms are retina-calming white cocoons, accented with cobalt and shades of ink; free of art and jarring design fads. Still, even Aegean-gazing hermits will be lured out at 7pm by the citrus-infused aromas created by young chef Angelos Bakopoulos at both Asian-fusion restaurant Seltz and poolside Mikrasia. The sandy beach-bar vibe belies the star-standard of his Anatolian and Byzantine twists on dishes such as cod on risotto in a spinach-and-dill emulsion. The shenanigans at Nammos and Scorpios are within 15 minutes toe-dipping and fleeing distance. Unlike the island’s bigger, brasher retreats, Santa Marina et al, Katikies is a place to hole up, not be seen in – by Mykonian standards at least. By Roxy Kavousi-Walker

Greece Travel Guide: 12 Best Greek Islands To Visit

The Greek islands are considered some of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world. With stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and picturesque beaches, the Greek islands make for a relaxing holiday away from your daily routine. 

Greece has over 200 islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas. Each has something to offer, from golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters to charming coastal villages and famous historical landmarks. 

Not sure which Greek islands to visit during your trip to Greece? We've got you covered. Here are the 12 best Greek islands to add to your itinerary.

In this article:

• Best time to visit the Greek islands
• 12 best Greek islands to visit
• Travel tips for the Greek Islands
• Greece eSIM: Stay connected with Airalo

Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands

The best time to visit the Greek islands is really up to personal preference and depends on the type of vacation you're after. 

May to September is the most popular time of year for sunny weather, making for the ideal beach vacation. However, the islands may be more crowded during this time of year, especially during August when many Europeans travel to Greece for their summer holidays.

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds, March to April or September to November are the best times to visit the Greek Islands. The weather is still lovely and mild, and the islands are less crowded by tourists.

12 Best Greek Islands to Visit

To help you plan your trip, we've compiled a list of the 12 best Greek islands to add to your travel bucket list.

Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands. For years, it has attracted visitors with its beautiful sandy beaches and picturesque whitewashed houses. 

Top Mykonos Attractions

Wander the winding streets in charming "Little Venice" and head to one of its waterfront restaurants to dine on  horiatiki  (Greek salad) and  moussaka . Take the chance to visit Kato Milli, where 16th-century windmills overlook the city and sea. 

If you're a history buff, take a day trip to the nearby island of Delos, an important archaeological site dating back to ancient times, where you'll find the Temple of Apollo and other historical monuments. And be sure to visit the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, a series of five churches built atop one another beginning in the 14th century.

And, if you're an art enthusiast, add The Rarity Gallery to your itinerary. This art gallery located in Mykonos Town displays works by both contemporary and traditional artists. The exhibition is a fantastic opportunity to view a variety of artworks. And who knows, perhaps you'll find a unique piece of art to bring home as a souvenir!

Mykonos Beaches

Mykonos is also known for its stunning beaches. The most popular, including Platys Gialos Beach, Elia Beach, and Paradise Beach, are along the island's southern coast. Relax under the sun, take a dip in the Aegean Sea, or try watersports like kitesurfing and jet skiing. If you have time to spare, discover the nearby village of Ano Mera, with its peaceful atmosphere and traditional Greek buildings.

Santorini is another of the most famous Greek islands, known for its natural beauty and colorful villages that spill from terraced cliffs. 

Start your day by swimming in clear, turquoise waters at Kamari Beach of Perissa Beach. And at lunchtime, tuck into traditional Greek dishes like  horta versa  (boiled leafy greens) and  domatokeftedes  (Santorini-style tomato fritters). Top off your evening in Oia to take in a magical sunset (there's a reason crowds break into applause as the sun dips below the horizon).

Learn about the island's history at the archeological site of Akrotiri, which has traces of one of the Bronze Age's most sophisticated settlements. Scholars and historians believe it served as the inspiration for Plato's  Atlantis . Afterward, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which houses artifacts excavated from the site.

Symi is not only beautiful for its scenic landscapes and beautiful beaches (like Nimborio and Marathonda) but also for its rich history and colorful hillside buildings. 

Like other Greek islands, you can explore the narrow streets and small squares of Gialos Port and enjoy its authentic Greek atmosphere. In the evening, dine at one of the restaurants overlooking the port and sample local delicacies like grilled fish and Greek  meze .

Among Symi's main attractions is Panormitis Monastery. The beautiful whitewashed monastery stretches along the shores of the Mediterranean. It was built in the 18th century and houses stunning frescoes, Venetian-style chandeliers, and the world's highest Baroque bell tower. 

Naxos 

Naxos is one of the largest Cyclades islands. It's located between Mykonos and Paros and is characterized by its mountainous terrain and white sandy beaches. 

Satisfy your love of culture and history with a visit to the Gate of Apollo and the ancient fortress of Naxos. Visit the mountain villages of Abirami and Velitra, where you can wander narrow streets and enjoy the tranquil rural atmosphere. 

To unwind, spend a day at Blanca Beach or Mikri Vigla Beach. Take a dip in crystal clear waters and lounge in the warm sun. And if you love water sports, you're in luck. Naxos has plenty of diving, kayaking, and windsurfing opportunities.

Naxos also offers fantastic local dining experiences. Be sure to sample  graviera Naxos , one of Greece's most famous cheeses, and classic Greek dishes like  souvlaki ,  dolmades , and  loukoumades  (traditional donuts).

If you want tranquility, this is the Greek island for you! Paros lies in the heart of the Cyclades islands, and like its neighbors, you'll fall in love with its natural beauty and white sandy beaches. Spend the day at Columbus Beach or Golden Beach and practice water sports like scuba diving, kayaking, and water skiing. 

Take a break to wander the port and dine at one of its traditional Greek restaurants. And visit quaint coastal villages such as Naousa and Parikia, where you will find traditional whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. 

Corfu 

Corfu Island is characterized by its charming Venetian architecture and narrow streets ( kantounia ) filled with shops and cafes. Its Old Town is a cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its cobblestone alleys and stroll past mansions, museums, and picturesque squares.

If you're a history buff, visit the ancient castle of Corfu, surrounded by water on three sides, and Achilleion Palace, which dates back to the nineteenth century. Both offer a glimpse into the island's rich cultural history.

Hydra 

Hydra is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This idyllic island has a calm and charming atmosphere, mainly because it's car-free! Rent bikes to explore the island, cycling between quaint villages and breathtaking beaches like Agios Nikolaos Beach and Vlessi Beach.

You can also stroll through the main village of Hydra and visit local shops, art galleries, and historic churches. The local harbor is a great place to sit back, relax, and admire the picturesque waterfront. Stop at a local tavern to sample fresh fish and  gogles  (traditional handmade pasta with melted butter).

Rhodes 

Rhodes is located in the southeast Aegean Sea and is considered one of the largest and most diverse Greek islands. Step back in time to the Knights Quarter and discover the Palace of Grand Masters, a medieval castle constructed by the Knights of Saint John in the 14th century.

If the outdoors is more your scene, head to Elia Beach and Kallithea Beach to swim, relax, and practice water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. Hike the countryside, with its green valleys, mountain villages, and medieval castles. And visit Butterfly Valley, a nature reserve home to thousands of butterflies and colorful plants. 

Looking for a fun and lively atmosphere? Ios is a summertime hotspot famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant party scene. It's home to some of the best beaches in the Cyclades, including Mylopotas, Gialos, and Manganari. 

The great Greek poet Homer is said to be buried on the island of Ios, and his tomb can be reached by car or motorbike from the port. The tomb is in a beautiful area surrounded by vineyards and olive trees that overlook Plakoto Beach. 

Samos 

Visit Greece and Turkey on one trip! Since the island of Samos is only one km off the coast of Turkey, you can take day trips to nearby areas like Kusadasi and Ephesus.

Samos is one of the prettiest Eastern Aegean islands. It caters to many types of holidays with its beautiful beaches, quaint fishing villages, and historic landmarks. 

Samos was once home to ancient Greek figures like Aesop, Epicurus, and Pythagoras and is the legendary birthplace of the goddess Hera. Visit the ancient city of Vathi and the historic Pythagorean, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And explore archeological landmarks like Heraoin, Eupalinos Tunnel, and the ancient Roman baths. 

Kefalonia 

From the rugged Ainos Mountains to lush green valleys, Kefalonia is home to a variety of beautiful landscapes. Explore Katavoutheres National Park to see local birds and wildlife in their natural habitat, and venture into underground grottos at the Dorgarati and Melissani caves.

Visit picturesque fishing villages like Fiskardu and Assos, where you'll find charming harbors with coastal cafes and restaurants. If you're after a beach vacation, swim and sunbathe at Kefalonia's scenic beaches, including Myrtos, Antisamos, Lourdas, and Skala.

Last and certainly not least, we must add Crete to our list of the best and most beautiful Greek islands. This is one of the largest islands in Greece and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean.

Crete is one of the oldest historical sites in the world, with archeological landmarks dating back to the Bronze, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Explore world-famous sites like the ancient Palace of Knossos and the Archeological Museum of Heraklion.

It's also known for its natural beauty and diverse agriculture. Explore natural attractions like Samaria National Park and Elfonisi Beach, and sample local products like olives, thyme, honey, bananas, and citrus fruits. 

Travel Tips for the Greek Islands

The currency used in Greece is the euro. It's a good idea to carry some cash with you for street vendors and small restaurants that may not accept credit cards.

Plugs and Adaptors

Greece uses type C and F electrical sockets, and the voltage is 230V (the same as most European countries and the UK). It's a good idea to purchase an adaptor to keep your electronics connected during your stay.

Getting Around

There are many ways to get around the Greek islands. Ferries and speedboats operate between the main and smaller islands. On the islands, you can rent a car or motorbike or use local transportation like buses and taxis.

Greece eSIM: Stay Connected with Airalo

Stay connected during your trip to Greece with an  eSIM from Airalo . An eSIM is a tiny SIM that's embedded in your device and works 100% digitally. You can download an eSIM plan for your destination and instantly connect to a mobile network. There's no need to find a SIM card vendor, manage multiple SIMs, or worry about roaming fees. 

Here are just some of the benefits of using an Airalo eSIM:

• Connect to a mobile network within minutes.
• Choose from flexible  local, regional, and global data plans .
• Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
• Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
• Need more data? Top up in the Airalo app.

You're all set for your trip to Greece! Head to the Airalo store to browse  eSIMs for Greece  and 200+ destinations worldwide.

Based in Dubai, Sana's love for storytelling and writing began at a young age. She writes about travel and tech for Airalo.

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15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

From historic hillside cities to island destinations, these are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece.

More than 27 million travelers made their way to Greece in 2022 , visiting the country's gorgeous islands and coastlines, rural towns, and historic capital city of Athens. One look at its landscapes and it's easy to see why travelers dream of visiting Greece — but there's so much more to this Mediterranean nation. 

"Everyone knows that Greece boasts stunning crystalline waters that make you want to dive right in and historical sites that whisper tales of the past. Its culinary delights are a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring its unique cultural riches and vibrant art scene, but what truly sets Greece apart is its people," Christos Stergiou , a travel advisor with True Trips, shared with Travel + Leisure . "Greeks have this incredible gift called philoxenia: hospitality taken to a whole new level. Our True Trips guests always describe the feeling of having new local friends who'll go above and beyond to make their journey unforgettable." 

Ready to plan your getaway? Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Greece.

Yes, a visit to Athens feels obvious, because not only is it the capital city, but it’s also home to the international airport you’ll likely fly into on your visit. That said, Athens is well worth a trip in its own right, as it’s home to some of the most important historical sites on Earth, including the must-see Acropolis. Need more? Here’s how to spend one perfect day in Athens .

Related: The Best Times to Visit Greece

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, located in the northern part of the country, offers a blend of history and youthful energy that few cities can match. “I would recommend Thessaloniki for its long and epic history,” Peter Sommer, founder of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. “The historic center of Thessaloniki is filled with an extraordinary series of ancient monuments, many of them part of an imperial palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Galerius and vast in scope."

Sommer added that there are several museums to visit here, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. “But history and archaeology aren’t the only reasons to come to Thessaloniki. It’s justly famed for its gastronomy,” Sommer added. “You can savor a huge selection of glorious local dishes and sample a cornucopia of excellent local wines.”

Drive two hours east of Thessaloniki to find another northern city worth exploring — Kastoria. The scenic city sits perched on Lake Orestiada between the Grammos and Vitsi mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake with any number of outfitters lining the shores, or just watch the local fisherman go to work each day to reel in the catch. Or, book a tour with Adventures With Wine to bike the lake’s shoreline and see all the hidden nooks worth exploring. 

“Ioannina truly shines as a city that's a hidden treasure, especially for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” Stergiou shared of the city that sits on Lake Pamvotida. It’s a spot that has inspired many creative talents thanks to its epic vistas, but more than that, Stergiou explained, it’s a fantastic home base for exploring more of the northwest region of Greece. 

“In addition to the beautiful lake that stands proud as the city’s landmark, the Byzantine castle, the scenic historical center, and the lively neighborhoods, Ioannina is a gateway to countless incredible experiences within a drive of an hour or two. From there, you can take daily trips to some of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, such as Metsovo or captivating Zagorohoria, filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming stone houses.” 

Kalamata, a city well-known for its olive production, is a place where travelers can get lost — in the best way possible. Come stroll its winding cobblestone streets, explore the castle, and visit museums like the Modern Greek Art Gallery for a well-rounded city escape in the Peloponnese region.

Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that date back as early as the 11th century. The complex of monasteries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can visit many for a small fee.

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands , and while many come with small populations, the island of Rhodes is positively metropolitan thanks to the city of Rhodes. Home to some 50,000 people, the city is famed for its ancient history and the duality of its New Town and Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with New Town, Old Town is a walled-off time capsule to the past, and it's one of the largest remaining medieval settlements in Europe.

Nafplio, located in the eastern Peloponnese, is a seaside dream packed with Venetian architecture to explore. As Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato , shared, it’s a “great place to wander through the old alleyways, grab a strong cup of Greek coffee at a local coffee shop in the square, and take a boat to Bourtzi Castle if you are interested in architecture and history.” As for the name of the town, Visit Greece explained that it comes from its mythological founder, Nafplios, one of Poseidon's sons.

One more island city to explore is Chania on the island of Crete. It too is famed for its Venetian harbor and quaint old town. Explore its cobblestone streets, duck into museums like the Maritime Museum of Crete , and shop for souvenirs in its endless boutiques. Pro tip: Leather goods are famously great here, so go ahead and splurge on a bag or a pair of shoes. 

While Larissa has a population of more than 130,000 people, it remains a place well in touch with Mother Nature. This city in central Greece is an agricultural hub, growing vegetables, grains, fruits, and more, so it's a great place to dig into some Thessalian cuisine. While in town, explore the Ancient Theatre of Larissa , dedicated to the god Dionysus, to learn more about the area's ancient history.

History abounds in the southern city of Corinth, thanks to well-preserved ruins including the iconic Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Just an hour from Athens, Corinth and the surrounding coastal towns make a perfect day trip from the capital city, says Colayera.

If you’re making your way to the islands, odds are you’ll pass through the port city of Piraeus. Dozens of ferries come in and out of the harbor each day, but before you board one, spend a little time exploring the city by visiting places like The Hellenic Maritime Museum , which showcases Greece's rich seafaring heritage.

Head north along the Aegean coast to Kavala, a hillside city with gorgeous beaches, sweeping vistas, and an exciting mix of ancient history and modern city life. You can’t miss its imposing aqueduct, which runs for almost 1,000 feet and dates to the 16th century. Once you’re done viewing that, head straight to The Acropolis of Kavala to learn more about this city’s fascinating history.

Find the party in Patras, a university port city in western Greece. Yes, of course, you’ll find history here, including inside the Archaeological Museum of Patras , which showcases goods from the surrounding region dating back to prehistory. But in Patras, you’ll also find a bustling (and modern) nightlife scene across several neighborhoods, including down Riga Feraiou Pedestrian Street, where you can snag a delicious bite of Greek food, too. 

Explore one of the most beautiful places in Greece when you plot a trip to Corfu Town on the eastern coast of the island of Corfu. Here, travelers can explore the historic architecture that earned Old Town of Corfu a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Tour the fortresses, stroll through the town’s central market, and visit Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece.

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