16 Greek Islands To Visit Instead Of Mykonos

Mykonos is an idyllic vacation spot, but it's overrun with tourists. These 16 islands are just as beautiful but more affordable and less crowded.

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More unique islands in Greece worth visiting

Mykonos has long been a must-visit destination for backpackers and honeymooners alike, offering fascinating tours on the Aegean Sea . But as tourism escalates, many people are looking for alternatives. Luckily, there is no shortage of Greek Islands with crystal clear blue waters, whitewashed buildings, sandy beaches, and volcanic cliffs. These 16 alternatives to Mykonos are a must-visit when seeking a getaway that’s budget-friendly and less crowded .

UPDATE: 2023/02/09 19:59 EST BY JOANE ACAR

The paradisiacal Greek islands are some of the most popular spots for a holiday break in Europe.

The article was extended to include 5 fascinating islands in Greece that offer travelers historic sites, iconic sunsets, stunning greenery, scenic beaches, and most of all precious times.

UPDATE: 2022/07/24 19:44 EST BY GABRIEL KIRELLOS

More Stunning Islands To Visit In Greece

Greece is home to countless charming islands that people should visit for an unforgettable vacation. This list was updated to include some additional islands with amazing attractions that everyone must see, such as the islands of Syros and Santorini.

Crete is a patchwork of old harbors and Venetian port villages loaded with tavernas. The gorgeous island features magnificent olive forests, sun-kissed mountains, and sheer-cut canyons. Visitors spend a perfect weekend in Crete , unwinding by the wild beaches in Falasarna, relaxing at magical beaches like Elafonisi on the Libyan Sea, or enjoying the vibrant spots next to Heraklion and the party ribbons of Malia.

Symi is a tiny island located in the Greek Aegean, and yet it is considered one of the most stunning islands around. The kaleidoscopically bright harbor of Symi and the Ano Symi town are extremely popular and glow in yellow, pink, and blue shades. Wanderers explore the secret beaches, where they enjoy some fresh shrimp dishes from nearby tavernas.

Just a short boat ride from Bodrum in the east, the island of Kos sparkles like a jewel amid the waters of the Aegean Sea. Its land features verdant fig areas and olive forests, peppered with the few arching spines of wild mountain peaks and dunes that give way to popular beaches such as Lambi and secluded Limnionas. There are also authentic Turkish, and Greek eats to try, stalking between the ancient remains and Genoese castles of historic Kos town.

Lefkada is a laid-back getaway perfect for travelers looking to catch a glance at rustic Greek island life in the Ionian Sea. Located in the Ionian archipelago, it has a wide inland of rough mountains and high-perched villages, all surrounded by dense forests of olive and cypress trees. The entire coastline features a lovely series of hidden coves and fishing villages such as Porto Katsiki and Kalamitsi Beach.

Travelers seeking the white and blue Cycladic architecture and design of Mykonos without the partiers and crowds should consider booking their holiday in Naxos instead. Naxos is just over an hour away from Mykonos by ferry and maintains all of the desirable perks of visiting the South Aegean without the high price tag and dense tourist population.

Visitors can relax on the white sands of Plaka Beach or visit the hilltop castle, Kastro. The medieval white-washed homes in Chora are sure to make any traveler's Greek Island vacation dreams come true.

A quick ferry ride away from Naxos is the popular Cycladic island, Paros. While still a favorite among tourists, Paros is less expensive and crowded than Mykonos or Santorini, with all the charm. Paros boasts vibrant blue waters, romantic stone streets, and white-washed buildings with blue roofs.

Top attractions on the island include visiting Panagia Ekatontapiliani (a historic church) and the Frankish Castle in Parikia. There are also plenty of beautiful beaches like Kolymbithres Beach, Monastiri Beach, and Piperi Beach.

Related: How To Spend A Weekend On The Iconic Greek Island Of Crete

Milos is an up-and-coming destination for travelers as they seek out more affordable alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini. It’s still part of the Cyclades but is located west of the other popular islands in the area. The main settlement on the island is Plaka, but it's worth venturing over to Firopotamos Village for at least a day to experience life in a Greek fishing village.

A can’t-miss spot in Milos is Sarakiniko Beach, which features white volcanic cliffs that strike a beautiful contrast to the vibrant blue of the Aegean Sea. Many visitors come here for the thrill of cliff jumping.

9 Zakynthos

Travelers willing to explore islands outside the Cyclades can enjoy a different side of Greece; typically this means lower prices and more local experiences. Zakynthos is an island on the Ionian Sea and boasts some of the best natural landscapes in the region.

Zakynthos is particularly famous for Navagio Beach, nicknamed Shipwreck Beach. This sandy cove is on the northwest shore of the island and is where visitors can see Panagiotis, the ship that washed up here in the early 1980s.

Heading back to the Aegean Sea, Ikaria is a unique choice for a getaway in the Greek Islands. Ikaria is one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” which are regions where people statistically live the longest. One in three inhabitants of Ikaria lives past the age of 90, and it’s common for people here to live to 100.

Spending some time here can help travelers understand the secrets to a long life. There are valuable lessons to learn from talking to the locals and observing their way of life. In addition to being a Blue Zone, Ikaria offers beautiful beaches like Nas Beach and quality wine at Afianes Wines.

Related: Visit Serifos: The Greek Island for Purists and Naturists

Rhodes is part of the Dodecanese Greek Islands and is closer to mainland Turkey than mainland Greece. The medieval city of Rhodes is the must-see attraction of the island and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , added to the most beautiful towns to visit around Rhodes.

The island’s landscapes are dramatic, with towering mountains and contrasting seascapes. Many visitors enjoy windsurfing and kite surfing on the southern coast of the island.

6 Kefalonia

Located west of mainland Greece, Kefalonia is on the Ionian Sea. It has a dry landscape, limestone cliffs, and white sand beaches. The waters here are unbelievably blue, and the colorful buildings give the island a lively feeling that is different from that of the Cyclades. Kefalonia is easy to get to from Athens since it has its own airport (Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou). Direct flights from Athens are short, taking just over one hour.

A lesser-known grouping of islands off the coast of Greece is called the Sporades. The Sporades comprise 24 islands on the country’s east coast in the Aegean Sea. Travelers looking for a less-touristy Greek destination will love the Sporades Island, Skiathos. Skiathos has an open-air cinema for evening entertainment, cafés, and plenty of quaint shops.

The top attraction is Lalaria Beach which is only accessible by boat. Lalaria offers shocking turquoise waters and white stone cliffs rising from the sea. It only takes 40 minutes to fly from Athens to Skiathos International Airport.

Kalymnos is another island in the Dodecanese grouping and makes the perfect pairing with Rhodes for a one-week getaway on the Aegean Sea. Kalymnos was originally a sponge fishing village, with the industry supporting much of the island’s economy until the population of sponge fish died out. Between 1859 and 1967, Kalymnos lost over 90% of its sponge fishing population . Today, tourism is blossoming on the island, and it's becoming a sought-after destination for adventurous travelers who enjoy rock climbing. The easiest way to get here from Athens is to fly to Kos and take a ferry.

Another Cycladic gem, Anafi, is located close to Santorini. It offers the same white-washed buildings and stone streets as Mykonos while getting travelers off the beaten path. Due to the limited tourist population here, there isn’t the same level of infrastructure as some of the other Greek Islands on this list. Therefore, one can spend a lot of time relaxing on peaceful beaches and enjoying the tranquility of this hidden oasis in Greece.

Visitors can check out the beautiful white-washed architecture of the Church of Panagia Kalamiotissa before heading to the beach. Livoskopos, Roukouna, and Katsouni are the most popular beaches on this small island.

2 Santorini

Santorini is a famous destination for American and Chinese honeymooners who enjoy taking selfies as the sun sinks behind the flooded volcanic crater, the island's caldera. While this view is considered a romantic cliche, it's still worth experiencing it when visiting Oia, the town of white homes and blue roofs . Visitors to the island will also have fun taking a road trip to the hot springs at Palia Kameni and the crater of Nea Kameni. The places to stay in Santorini are concentrated in Imerovigli and Oia, but it's also worth checking out the unique village of Pyrgos on the island.

This enchanting Greek island is known for its prehistoric settlement, Agios Stefanos, and many more attractions worth checking out. If anyone is looking for a unique Greek holiday without noise and crowds, then Syros is the way to go. From hikes and secluded beaches to historical activities and archaeological wonders, people will never run out of options when visiting this island. They will enjoy exploring Kastri, Ano Meria, Gria Cave, Agia Pakou, Villa Tsiropina, Paralia Kini, and many more attractions on Syros.

The Mediterranean Traveller

10 Stunning Greek Islands (That Aren’t Santorini or Mykonos)

Andros with text overlay '10 Stunning Greek Islands that aren't Santorini or Mykonos'

Greece has around 227 inhabited islands—and beauty has been shared between them equally. Deciding which one to visit is the tricky part. Each has a special something about it.

I love the Greek Islands. And I’ll admit, it makes my heart sink a little every time I hear someone is visiting Greece but only going to Santorini and/or Mykonos. Whilst these islands are deservedly popular, they’re by no means the only stunningly beautiful Greek islands. So if you’re looking for a little extra inspiration for your summer plans, here are 10 islands which will make your heart skip a beat with their achingly lovely landscapes, jaw-dropping beaches and picturesque towns.

Folegandros at sunset

FOLEGANDROS

Folegandros is Greece’s best-kept secret, although the word is getting out. There’s something bewitching and romantic about this quiet island in the Cyclades. Just an hour from Santorini, Folegandros has similar stark scenery and stunning sunset. But this island has no airport which helps to keep the crowds at bay. Come here for simple pleasures, seclusion, and chic accommodation.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos

Another up-and-coming destination in the Cyclades is Milos and its lunar landscape. Formed by volcanic activity and quite unique in its appearance, Milos is one for the photographers. The beaches here look like nothing else you’ve ever seen. Natural wonders are complemented by colourful little houses by the sea known assýrmata which are used for storing fishing boats over the winter.

Sun casting shadows on Hydra harbour, Greece

For island gorgeousness in close proximity to Athens, look no further than Hydra. Part of the Argo-Saronic island chains, Hydra is near enough to make it within day trip distance. But as soon as you step foot on this island you’ll be won over. Vehicles are not allowed on Hydra (also spelt  Ydra ), making it a blissful traffic-free getaway from modern life. The harbour is one of the prettiest in Greece.

Hydra is known for its bohemian associations too; the island has played host to many writers, poets, artists and filmmakers over the years. There’s not much to see or do on the rest of the island thanks to its lack of roads but the main town is a yachtie haven and comes alive with parties in the summer.

A fishing boat bobs in the bay of whitewashed Batsi village, Andros

Another island within striking distance of Athens, Andros has been sheltered from mass tourism by its wealthy landowners. But the low-key Cycladic island is slowly making a name for itself a top destination for eco-tourism, wellness, hiking, and the arts. There’s a cross-island hiking trail has for the active, art galleries in its handsome neo-classical capital and a wealth of fantastic beaches around the island. The dark dense vegetation lends the light a special quality on Andros, as does the tinkling of the island’s many streams and creeks.

Pretty sugar cube houses of Naoussa on the Greek island of Paros

Pretty Paros looks the quintessential Cycladic island with its turquoise seas, fresh beaches and gleaming white buildings made from local marble. It has some of the most picturesque coastal villages in Greece. Its reputation as ‘the new Mykonos’ is gathering pace; the narrow streets are quickly filling with boho shops, boutique hotels and chilled nightlife. Get here quick before the prices rise to match.

White hilltop houses on Naxos with Paros across the channel in the background

Just across the water from Paros but offering a distinctly different vibe, Naxos is a bit different from the rest of the islands in the Cyclades. Its charming capital incorporates Venetian styles and has a surprisingly good town beach. There’s much of interest inland; the views from Mount Zeus, historic mountain villages, ancient temples, verdant hikes. Dare we say it’s the best Greek island for sandy beaches? Naxos never feels overcrowded so even in high season you can find a beach to yourself.

Read more : Naxos – An Unspoilt Island Guide

Sunworshippers on the beach in Lindos with the village and Acropolis in the background

The popular Dodecanese island of Rhodes boasts one of the blockbuster sights of the Aegean in its well-preserved medieval old town. But the UNESCO World Heritage site is not the only beauty spot on the island: Lindos is surely one of the prettiest villages in all of Greece. The east coast is scattered with breathtaking beaches whilst the west side is covered in dense forest, vineyards and secret churches.  Rhodes is one of the most southerly (therefore warmest) islands and so a good choice if you’re travelling in April or October when good weather is less assured.

Read more : Rhodes – An Unspoilt Island Guide

The famous monastery of Hozoviotissa built into the rocks on Amorgos island

With its stark rocky scenery and typical whitewashed architecture, mysterious Amorgos has everything you expect from a Cycladic island. But as one of the most remote Greek islands, it attracts independent travellers, hippies, and free spirits. It even has a shipwreck beach to rival Zakynthos’ famous Navagio.

Turquoise waters of Balos lagoon, Crete

Crete has it all: knockout ancient sites, charming harbour towns, mountain wilderness, superb beaches, and arguably the best food in Greece. Allow yourself plenty of time though, or stick to one side of the island, as Crete the biggest island in Greece and the 5th largest in the Mediterranean. Don’t miss the beautiful Venetian old towns of Chania and Rethymnon, or hiking the Samaria Gorge.

An emerald bay in Paleokastritsa with flowers in the foreground

The greenest of the Greek Isles, mountainous and heavily forested Corfu (also known as Kerkyra) is closer to Albania than Greece. The promenades, ochre buildings and shuttered windows of old Corfu Town are more reminiscent of Malta or Sicily than the Cyclades. With historic influences ranging from Venetian and Byzantine to British, Corfu Town has a distinctly cosmopolitan air. When you’re ready to get away from it all, head to the north of the rest of this lush island which is endowed with glistening emerald bays and hidden coves.

Read more :

Corfu – An Unspoilt Island Guide

Corfu – Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece

15 Best Greek Islands for Beaches

Greek Island Hopping 101 – Everything You Need to Know

10 Small Greek Islands Not to Miss

10 Colourful Places to Visit in Greece

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Image credits: Folegandros © jcfmorata / Adobe Stock, Milos © jsk12 / Adobe Stock, Hydra © kokixx / Adobe Stock, Andros © kite_rin / Adobe Stock, Paros © kite_rin / Adobe Stock, Naxos © kite_rin / Adobe Stock, Rhodes © The Mediterranean Traveller, Amorgos © costas1962 / Adobe Stock, Crete © smallredgirl / Adobe Stock, Corfu © Balate Dorin / Adobe Stock

10 Stunning Greek Islands (That Aren’t Santorini or Mykonos)

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The 11 Best Greek Islands To Visit from Mykonos

greek islands to visit from Mykonos

Tired of the Paradise Beach parties? Want something different to the Little Venice eateries? Looking to escape the sunset crowds of the Mykonos windmills? Cue this guide to the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos . It offers nine fantastic places that are just a quick hop by boat from the good-time party island of the Cyclades chain.

There’s certainly no shortage of enticing options. Some are pure bucket-list stuff, like the soaring ridges and crumbled volcanic rocks of Santorini . Others are more off the beaten path, like the historic compound of Delos or the untouched lands of Rineia – just wait until you see the color of the waters there!

Yep, our collection of the 11 best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos should have something for a wide variety of different types of travelers. What’s more, we’ve aimed to list only the places that you can get to in a matter of hours by boat out of Mykonos Town, so you won’t have to lump the luggage to the airport to drop these spots onto the itinerary .

Table of Contents

Paros

Paros starts off our list of the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos mainly because it’s sort of been accepted as the main ferry terminal of the Cyclades islands . That means you should find loads of boat connections going back and forth from Mykonos Town and the port in Parikia on the west coast. They tend to be pretty quick links, too, taking just 30 minutes on a high-speed catamaran and only 1h20 on a bigger passenger ferry.

The thing is, because Paros is widely thought of as just a place to change boats en route between islands, there’s loads here that’s been left almost totally undiscovered. Venture inland from the main harbor and you can hit quaint hamlets like Lefkes, a twisting maze of narrow streets and whitewashed homes emblazoned with bougainvillea. On the north coast, the historic fishing port of Naousa offers seafood joints and a touch of nightlife, too.

And let’s not forget the beaches. They aren’t the glitzy affairs of Mykonos . They are chilled and family friendly, with clean sand and unbusy waters. Check out Kolymbithres Beach, a rock-studded cove with fantastic snorkeling. Or head to red-tinged Faragas Beach in the south, where a smattering of salt-washed tavernas serves up dinner to the sunset.

Naxos

Naxos is the big daddy of the Cyclades islands. It covers a mega 430 square kilometers of land immediately to the south of Mykonos, emerging straight from the heart of the Aegean Sea with its crumpled hills and idyllic mountain towns. Because it’s actually the next island over from Mykonos, you should find that there are plenty of ferry links – they can take as little as 30 minutes but most take about 50 minutes from departure to arrival.

You’ll want to start in the Chora, the main town. That’s a proper, lived-in town that doesn’t shut up shop for the low season (pretty unusual for these tourist-reliant isles). It unfolds under the gaze of a big Venetian fort known as the Kastro and offers charming rows of old Greek cottages set on steep diagonals as they roll down to the boats below.

Like all of its near neighbors, Naxos also presents ample opportunities for the beach bums. It’s got some of the whitest white-sand beaches in the whole region, which are exemplified by the almost endless stretch of Plaka Beach. For the clearest waters and snorkeling by the bucket load, we prefer Aliko Beach, a little stretch on the south-west coast. Note: Aliko is also nudist friendly.

Rineia

Of all the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos, Rineia is the one you’re least likely to have heard of. That’s largely because it’s not so much an island destination in its own right as it is a day-trip destination for folks staying in hotels on Mykonos proper. People don’t come here to holiday because they can’t – it’s totally uninhabited and there’s not a single place to stay on its shores.

But you can whiz across the strait to explore Rineia by booking onto one of the regular daytrips. They’ll typically run a ring around the whole island, stopping in the nooks and crannies of the west coast, and revealing some of the secret swimming lagoons that carve their way inland to offer uber-clear waters.

Also be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the small chapels of the Church of St George and the shrine to Agios Nikolaos. They speckle the northern shoreline of Rineia and are just about the only human habitation that it’s possible to find, save for a few rough-stone shepherd huts here and there.

Ios

Ios is the island to pick if you’re keen to keep the party of Mykonos going once you leave its shores. Yep, this one’s probably the only destination in the Cyclades that could give Mykonos itself a run for its money on the nightlife front. The vibes are a touch different – we’re talking thumping 18-30s bars and wild disco nights fueled by shots. But hedonism is the common denominator in clubs like Slammer and the Coo Bar .

Of course, it’s not all party, party, party. Ios retains a pretty wild backcountry that’s ripe to explore on an ATV. Head up and over the hills and you’ll find spots like Homer’s Tomb (the supposed resting place of ancient Greece’s most famous poet) and fishing villages like Magganari (where tavernas serve fresh-caught red snapper doused in lemon juice and olive oil). The beaches are darn lovely, too, so make for Klima Beach or Mylopotas when it’s time to sizzle off the hangover.

Getting to Ios from Mykonos isn’t a chore. Like Santorini before it, this one’s a regular favorite among travelers hopping from isle to isle in the high season. There are multiple ferries each day, including fast boats that take less than two hours to make the crossing. We’d recommend booking your tickets as early as possible because seats can sell out.

Delos

If you’re a history buff, there’s no question that Delos is the best of the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos. You simply have to come here. Located just a whisker over the narrow strait from Agios Ioannis Beach on the southwestern edge of Mykonos, this spot was once a major gathering point of ancient Greek city states. Naturally, that means there are oodles of day trips and organized tours on offer, most of which take about half a day in all.

The main attractions on Delos lie in the old sanctuary and forum area. That dates back more than 2,500 years, so the ruins and relics are pretty darn special. Guests off the boat are greeted by the proud Terrace of the Lions, which was constructed in the 7 th century BC to honor the god Apollo. Pass under the Propylaia gateway and you’ll find the historic treasuries of various Greek cities, all topped by the towering temple known as the Keraton.

History done and dusted? Don’t be tempted to jump straight back on the boat. You can also hike to the top of Mount Kynthos. It’s the highest point on Delos and offers sweeping views of the ancient complexes, along with sightings of the Mykonos coastline back to the east and north.

Santorini

Unquestionably the most famous of the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos on this list, Santorini magnetizes millions of travelers every year with its eye-watering landscapes. Believe it or not, the whole thing was once the cap of a colossal underwater volcano. That’s since exploded (a long time ago now, don’t worry), leaving a rock-ribbed isle of soaring cliffs and coffee-colored boulders emerging straight out of the clear blue of the Aegean. Yep – you’ll want the camera charged for when you arrive.

Travels in Santorini are usually about wallowing in the jaw-dropping views of the caldera. They are best in the hilltop towns of the western coast. Choose between chic Oia, the bustle of Fira , or the charming village setting of Imerovigli, and make sure you score a hotel that has a balcony, or, better yet, a room with a private one! Once you’re done with the panoramas, there are excellent Greek wines to taste in the cellar doors here, along with ancient history in the old agora of Akrotiri.

Expect to cover about 64 miles between Mykonos and Santorini. That’s one of the farthest boat links we list here. Thankfully, it’s also one of the most popular connections among island hoppers in the summer months, so there should be plenty of boats to pick from and prices remain competitive.

Tinos

Tinos has been very content to let the rest of the Cyclades islands do their thing while it remains firmly out of the limelight. There are one or two things that it’s known for, like the Orthodox holy site of the Church of the Annunciation and its marble-sculpting workshops, but they hardly bring a fraction of the crowds of, say, Santorini. The upshot? It’ll be quiet, it will be remote, and that’s the point…

Exploring Tinos can often feel like exploring Greece 50 years back. You’re more likely to meet herds of sheep than other cars as you tour the mountain roads. The villages – lovely little Volax, white-painted Komi – are truly time-stood-still affairs, where clocks seem to slow naturally and smartphones simply aren’t welcome. On the coast, handsome Panormos is the place to be for seafood and sleepy evenings.  

The good news is that getting over to Tinos should be a cinch. A daily ferry runs from Mykonos Town in the high season months (May-September) and for some of the low season, but can be canceled due to rough weather. It’s only 16 miles from start to finish as the crow flies, taking between 20-35 minutes depending on what boat you take and what the conditions are like.

Milos

Often a popular second or third stop on island-hopping tours of the central Aegean and the Cyclades, Milos is a perfect place to escape to after hitting the nightlife venues of Mykonos . Ferries go direct and indirect throughout the summer months, costing about €70 ($78) per person, each way, and taking three to five hours in all.

You’ll be dropped off at the main town and port of Adamantas. It’s the only real town on the island and sits nestled in the main central bay where the waters are still and calm. From there, it should be easy to explore both sides of the island – and there are two distinct sides…

The north and west are home to most of the main draws. They include ancient theatres and catacombs, but also blinding-white rock coves where the water is a pure turquoise. Then you get the south and east. That’s best explored on a boat outing, which can whisk you to the rugged caves of Sikia and Kleftiko to see fantastic rock stacks and more.

Sunset on island

Sikinos has managed to keep a very low profile in the midst of the Greek Cyclades. It’s nowhere near as popular as others that are just on the doorstep – iconic Santorini and party-pumping Ios are just a stone’s throw away. But that’s part of the draw. Come here to see a part of the central Aegean that not too many people see. Come to tread off-the-beaten-path Greece.

Ferries (which only come in from Naxos or Paxos, not Mykonos itself) will take you to the port and sole town on Sikinos’s southern coast. That’s the gateway to the island and the start of the single road that goes north up to the mountaintops to the white-painted Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, a 17 th -century Orthodox shrine that has spectacular views.

From there, a web of ancient donkey trails and hiking routes fans out to link blink-and-you’ll-miss-them hamlets and small shrines carved into the hills of the north coast. It’s a dusty, lunar-like region that hosts probably the biggest draw on the island: The upcoming Manalis winery , where you can sample the local goods while watching the sunset behind the larger Cyclades isles on the horizon.

Ermoupoli

Syros has to be one of the most overlooked of the Cyclades chain. That’s probably because it has more lived-in buzz than many of the places here; is more of a workaday island with a proper port town at its heart. However, that’s also part of the charm and sitting with a morning Greek coffee on the port quays watching the world go by is a window onto how real islanders live in the Aegean.

Mykonos is actually the obvious starting point for a trip here as it’s the neighboring isle. Ferries, taking about 40 minutes to make the crossing, go relatively regularly in the peak season months, but they are pricy – at around €67 ($74) per person, each way.

The top things to see on this less-visited part of the Aegean include a particularly enthralling industrial museum that reveals the trading past of Ermoupoli (the enthralling island capital), a grand town hall structure, and the soaring Church of the Resurrection of Christ, with its blue-tinged dome.

There are also beaches aplenty, but not many that are developed and built-up like you get on Mykonos. The best are probably Kini, a super laid-back beach in a deep cove with a taverna-dotted village to its back, and emptier Galissas, with its light waves and good swimming spots.

Crete

From May to September there are about two ferries a day running between Mykonos and Greece’s largest island . It’s not a short trip, sometimes lasting as long as eight hours from start to finish, and it’s usually done as part of a longer journey that begins in Piraeus in Athens. However, it is a ticket to one of the most enthralling destinations in the whole Aegean…

Crete measures 155 miles from east to west. It feels more like a whole country unto itself thanks to its unique cultural history and vibe. The first thing you’re likely to notice as you approach in the boat is just how rugged it is. The glimmering Lefka Ori (White Mountains) can be seen soaring into the clouds behind the north shore. They are a great phalanx of rock and stone that host mountain goats, hardy villages, and even deep gorges like UNESCO-tagged Samaria.

Most travelers will stick to the northern coast. That’s where you find the two main towns of Chania and Heraklion; the first a maze-like medley of Byzantine and Venetian buildings, the latter a buzzy modern city with bars coming out of its ears. We have a real soft spot for the south coast, though. It’s one of the southernmost regions in Europe, gets very hot, and has clearwater beaches like Glyka Nera, Marmara, and Matala.

So, what are the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos?

You’re certainly not short of options here. From the hedonistic towns of Ios to the remote lagoons of Rineia to the rugged backcountry of Tinos, you’ve got all sorts on the menu when it comes to picking that next pitstop in the Aegean. You could even opt for a jaunt to Santorini to shorten the bucket list by one more line – it’s got what many say are the most incredible sunsets on the planet! What’s more, this guide offers just a taster of the various places that you can get to from Mykonos. There are plenty more, including lesser-known Ikaria and sleepy Donoussa.

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Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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The Greek island to visit now — before it turns into the next Mykonos

You’ll have to be quick: the jet set have already landed, but look a little harder and you can still find beautiful beaches and tiny tavernas in up-and-coming paros.

The old town in Naoussa

F irst came the Romans and the Byzantines, then the bronzed gods and goddesses of the global jet set. And on the short drive from the port of Paros to my hotel, the newly opened Avant Mar, I can see signs of the island’s latest arrivals: chic hotels, expensive resort-wear shops, helipads. “Yes,” says our young driver, who has come from Thessaloniki to spend a season here. “It is going the way of Mykonos.”

By that he means the luxury, hedonism and certain brand of wealthy holidaymaking for which Mykonos has become famous. “But not too much,” he assures me, wary of the nearby island’s growing reputation for vulgarity.

As we glide into the northern town of Naoussa and curve down a steep road, I see the Avant Mar from above: the circular reception building, with its walls of white linen blowing in the breeze, and the elliptical open-aired wellness area set against the bright white cubic architecture of the miniature village of suites. It has an Elysian feel. The tagline “a new Cycladic era” is written on the wall.

Within 20 minutes my boyfriend and I are lying on sunloungers by the 55m pool, near to where it flows into a sort of swimmable infinity passage with views of the Aegean Sea. There is another shallow pool with in-built beds in the spa area. Down on Piperi bay is the hotel’s beach club, where a short arc of sand connects the hotel to Naoussa town.

Avant Mar

And it’s in Naoussa town that evening that the Mykonos comparison shines truest. At dusk, the sweet fishermen’s town with white walls and chalk-blue spires is swimming with deeply tanned and exceptionally chic tourists drinking £21 Paloma cocktails. Several fishermen pull up in their small wooden boats while couples ashore pose for selfies in the radiance of the setting sun. It’s a postcard Cycladic town, with brightly lit lanes housing a maze of jewellery shops, pricey linen stores and teeny-weeny tavernas with a handful of tables huddled under magenta bougainvillea. By 2am the clubs are packed and hostesses are gleefully turning away all those foolish enough to have not made a reservation (us). So it’s back to the hotel to our private plunge pool for a late-night dip.

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Avant Mar, which opened in July, marks a new echelon of luxury on Paros, which is one of the few islands in the region with an airport, so most guests would probably fly here via Athens (we do on the way back), this being one of the few Cycladic islands with an airport. Technically it’s a boutique hotel, with 38 rooms ranging from doubles through executive suites with plunge pools — which we are staying in — to one colossal 70 m sq premium sea view suite with a private pool which starts at £1,696 a night in low season. Mine, which is 42 m sq and has a tiny back garden as well as the front decking with the pool, costs from £785 a night in low season to £1,444 a night in high season.

It’s a seriously stylish room with lots of marble. The floor echoes Cycladic flagstone squares, with large curvaceous slabs of marble separated by thick white render. The bathroom has the most beautiful sink I think I’ve ever seen, a solid white-and-black marble block running wall to wall and topped with Aesop products that smell of bergamot and sage. (Marble is big in Paros. Parian marble was used to make the sculptures inside the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens as well as the Venus de Milo and the winged statue of Nike in the Louvre.) Out front, the pool is fringed with pink oleander, aromatic shrubs and ornamental grasses.

The room comes with Avant Mar cork yoga mats and a beach bag with baseball caps and a water bottle — all branded so that there can be no doubt that you are living that Avant Mar (dream) lifestyle. It’s super high tech, with an enormous TV concealed as a mirror and an in-built Bluetooth sound system connected to speakers in the ceiling. It doesn’t surprise me when Anna Asimakopoulou, the general manager who can be seen floating around the main pool in a trilby chatting with guests, tells me it cost £25.5 million to complete. She too says that change is afoot on the island.

Perhaps this was the inevitable path for Paros. Neighbouring Antiparos, a much smaller island reachable by a seven-minute ferry from Pounta, is already loved by elite travellers (Tom Hanks has a house on Antiparos and this summer hosted Barack and Michelle Obama). Plus the billionaires’ favourite island, Mykonos, is 45 minutes by boat.

So the celebrities are descending on Paros. Asimakopoulou is too discreet to tell me who, but she says a few have choppered in from their yachts to the nearby helipad to eat at Matsuhisa, the hotel’s flagship Japanese fusion restaurant run by Chef Nobu. Matsuhisa seems to have become the select restaurant of the super-wealthy, wherever they happen to be — there are branches in Beverly Hills, St Moritz, Mykonos, Aspen and several other A-list bolt holes. You have to have serious money to eat here: there is a “small bite” — literally a bite — of tuna belly for £43. And yet, when we try it the next evening, the place is more or less full of shiny sexy people drinking cocktails and eating yellowtail sashimi while the DJ plays dinner-friendly club classics. Every dish is presented as a showstopper: we try the octopus carpaccio with dry miso (£31), spicy lobster salad (£55) and Nobu’s signature black cod (£51). It’s all delicious — just don’t come here looking for Greek food (or prices).

The other restaurant at the hotel is Thymes, where breakfast is served and you can enjoy a more casual poolside lunch. There’s a Greek pastry and dessert shop, Figs, which is great for an afternoon scoop of sorbet delivered to your lounger.

Piperi beach

When we go out to explore the island, I see other parallels with Mykonos: most obviously the ATVs (quad bikes), with girls in bikinis zipping around the arid hill roads. But word on the street is that “cabana culture” — meaning big beds on the beach (my cabana is more expensive than your cabana etc . . .) — has landed on Paros. Apparently a few of the beach clubs have undergone Ibiza-style makeovers, so we check out the most popular, Monastiri beach, a ten-minute taxi from Avant Mar in the northwest of the island. And sure enough there are different prices for different tiers of beds — the cabanas are £77 a day, front-row beds are £60, rows 4–10 (basically economy class) come in at £43. It’s not quite Ibiza and Mykonos prices but everyone is dressed as though it is. On the way it’s worth taking in a slice of history at the small Mycenaean Acropolis overlooking the sunseekers on Kolymbithres beach.

● Best Greek islands to visit

So what about the rest of Paros? The next morning we rent a scooter and start a full assessment. It’s not long before we discover a very different side. Heading down the east coast, our first stop is Piso Livadi, an unfussy beach town with all sorts of tourists drinking beer and eating Greek salad in the waterside tavernas. Then Golden Beach, a rare long stretch of sandy beach for the surfers and paragliders and bat-and-ball lovers. Further still is Paralia Glifa, a tranquil crescent-moon bay dotted with sea pines. We buy a bottle of beer from the beach café and watch the sky turn amber.

Before dark, we go further inland, towards an ancient Byzantine trail that connects three medieval villages in the heart of the island. It’s best walked early in the morning or early in the evening to avoid the heat but we zip up the hills in our scooter and take a stop at each: first Marpissa, then Prodromos for an aperitivo of souma (grape-based alcohol like ouzo) and fennel balls at Marigos Kafenio, and finally for dinner in Lefkes, the largest of the three towns with several atmospheric tavernas. It’s touristy, but in a way that all the Cycladic islands have been for years. We try Lefkiano, in a tiny square under the stars, where we have a hearty meal of grilled prawns, lamb kleftiko and rabbit with thyme along with a carafe of delicious house Parian wine all for £43.

It’s only after our day of exploration that I realise the big money on the island seems to be concentrated in the north, between Monastiri, through Naoussa town and into the northeast near Santa Maria beach. Just east of Naoussa, another new luxury hotel, Cosme, debuted last summer. Its sister hotel, Parilio, a member of Design Hotels, opened near Kolymbithres in 2019. On our final night we try Cosme’s restaurant, Parostia, and have an excellent meal that includes raw white fish served in the fish it was cut from, curled up in little sashimi balls, as well as a whole grilled bass with local greens as a side. It’s Greek food but elevated (and then some). With two cocktails and a bottle of wine, you can expect a £256 bill.

So yes there are experiences exclusively for the rich on Paros. But there are also plenty of rich experiences for the rest of us, and you’re unlikely to find Elon Musk cavorting on his superyacht here any time soon. Asimakopoulou is right when she describes it as “less than Mykonos but more than Milos and Folegandros”, referring to two of the sleepier Cycladic isles. Paros is floating somewhere in the middle. And this might just be its sweet spot.

Monique Rivalland was a guest of Avant Mar, which has B&B doubles from £296 ( avantmar.com ). Fly to Paros via Athens

Three more Paros hotels

By richard mellor.

1. Christina Hotel, Naoussa Here’s an outstanding budget option in Naoussa. Built in classic Cycladic style — glintingly white buildings shaped like sugar cubes — the family-run Christina comes with a slender, saltwater eco-pool and a roof terrace facing the sea and sunset. Its age limit of 21 ensures tranquillity. When not strolling around Naoussa or walking the ten minutes to sandy Piperi Beach, ask the friendly owners for help in arranging water sports, horse riding or guided excursions — or for some insider island tips. Details B&B doubles from £110 (christinaparos.gr)

2. Minois, Koukoulavmes Recently renovated and relaunched under new owners in May, Minois is located on Paros’s blowier west coast near to the large beach at Parasporos. Also faithfully following the cubist Cycladic architectural textbook, its 44 suites abound with light, space and sharp design details such as hanging wicker chairs. Outside, palm trees and plump loungers flank a large pool. There’s a spa and Mediterranean food overseen by the vaunted chef Alexander Tsiotinis. Most enticing, though, is the menu of local activities ranging from ceramic classes to salt-harvesting hikes. Details B&B suites from £337 (minois-hotel.com)

Minois

3. Seesoo Paros, near Pounta Further southwest, Seesoo is plastic-free and recycles all wastewater. That sustainability is matched by superb facilities: the 11-room hotel abuts a shingly bay where yoga sessions take place, plus a pool with unbroken sea views towards Antiparos. The same vista is available from a waterside deck on which glasses of Parian souma (a raki-like spirit) might be clinked as the sinking sun turns the sea purple. Indoors, rustic-chic interior touches — rattan rocking chairs; bleached wooden tables — conjure a restful atmosphere. Details B&B doubles from £223 (seesooparos.com)

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16 Greek Islands To Visit Instead Of Mykonos

by admin | Feb 24, 2023 | Blog | 0 comments

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

Read update

Extra distinctive islands in Greece price visiting

Mykonos has lengthy been a must-visit vacation spot for backpackers and honeymooners alike, offering fascinating tours on the Aegean Sea . However as tourism escalates, many individuals are on the lookout for alternate options. Fortunately, there isn’t any scarcity of Greek Islands with crystal clear blue waters, whitewashed buildings, sandy seashores, and volcanic cliffs. These 16 alternate options to Mykonos are a must-visit when in search of a getaway that’s budget-friendly and less crowded .

UPDATE: 2023/02/09 19:59 EST BY JOANE ACAR

The paradisiacal Greek islands are a number of the hottest spots for a vacation break in Europe.

The article was prolonged to incorporate 5 fascinating islands in Greece that supply vacationers historic websites, iconic sunsets, gorgeous greenery, scenic seashores, and most of all treasured instances.

UPDATE: 2022/07/24 19:44 EST BY GABRIEL KIRELLOS

Extra Gorgeous Islands To Go to In Greece

Greece is dwelling to numerous charming islands that folks ought to go to for an unforgettable trip. This record was up to date to incorporate some further islands with wonderful sights that everybody should see, such because the islands of Syros and Santorini.

Crete is a patchwork of previous harbors and Venetian port villages loaded with tavernas. The beautiful island options magnificent olive forests, sun-kissed mountains, and sheer-cut canyons. Visitors spend a perfect weekend in Crete , unwinding by the wild seashores in Falasarna, stress-free at magical seashores like Elafonisi on the Libyan Sea, or having fun with the colourful spots subsequent to Heraklion and the get together ribbons of Malia.

Symi is a tiny island positioned within the Greek Aegean, and but it’s thought of one of the gorgeous islands round. The kaleidoscopically brilliant harbor of Symi and the Ano Symi city are extraordinarily fashionable and glow in yellow, pink, and blue shades. Wanderers discover the key seashores, the place they take pleasure in some contemporary shrimp dishes from close by tavernas.

Only a quick boat experience from Bodrum within the east, the island of Kos sparkles like a jewel amid the waters of the Aegean Sea. Its land options verdant fig areas and olive forests, peppered with the few arching spines of untamed mountain peaks and dunes that give technique to fashionable seashores similar to Lambi and secluded Limnionas. There are additionally genuine Turkish, and Greek eats to attempt, stalking between the traditional stays and Genoese castles of historic Kos city.

Lefkada is a laid-back getaway excellent for vacationers trying to catch a look at rustic Greek island life within the Ionian Sea. Positioned within the Ionian archipelago, it has a large inland of tough mountains and high-perched villages, all surrounded by dense forests of olive and cypress timber. The complete shoreline encompasses a pretty collection of hidden coves and fishing villages similar to Porto Katsiki and Kalamitsi Seaside.

Vacationers in search of the white and blue Cycladic structure and design of Mykonos with out the partiers and crowds ought to think about reserving their vacation in Naxos as an alternative. Naxos is simply over an hour away from Mykonos by ferry and maintains the entire fascinating perks of visiting the South Aegean with out the excessive price ticket and dense vacationer inhabitants.

Guests can loosen up on the white sands of Plaka Seaside or go to the hilltop fort, Kastro. The medieval white-washed properties in Chora are positive to make any traveler’s Greek Island trip desires come true.

A fast ferry experience away from Naxos is the favored Cycladic island, Paros. Whereas nonetheless a favourite amongst vacationers, Paros is cheaper and crowded than Mykonos or Santorini, with all of the appeal. Paros boasts vibrant blue waters, romantic stone streets, and white-washed buildings with blue roofs.

High sights on the island embrace visiting Panagia Ekatontapiliani (a historic church) and the Frankish Fortress in Parikia. There are additionally loads of lovely seashores like Kolymbithres Seaside, Monastiri Seaside, and Piperi Seaside.

Associated: How To Spend A Weekend On The Iconic Greek Island Of Crete

Milos is an up-and-coming vacation spot for vacationers as they search out extra reasonably priced alternate options to Mykonos and Santorini. It’s nonetheless a part of the Cyclades however is positioned west of the opposite fashionable islands within the space. The primary settlement on the island is Plaka, but it surely’s price venturing over to Firopotamos Village for not less than a day to expertise life in a Greek fishing village.

A can’t-miss spot in Milos is Sarakiniko Seaside, which options white volcanic cliffs that strike a wonderful distinction to the colourful blue of the Aegean Sea. Many guests come right here for the fun of cliff leaping.

9 Zakynthos

Vacationers keen to discover islands outdoors the Cyclades can take pleasure in a distinct aspect of Greece; sometimes this implies decrease costs and extra native experiences. Zakynthos is an island on the Ionian Sea and boasts a number of the finest pure landscapes within the area.

Zakynthos is especially well-known for Navagio Seaside, nicknamed Shipwreck Seaside. This sandy cove is on the northwest shore of the island and is the place guests can see Panagiotis, the ship that washed up right here within the early Nineteen Eighties.

Heading again to the Aegean Sea, Ikaria is a novel selection for a getaway within the Greek Islands. Ikaria is among the world’s 5 “Blue Zones,” that are areas the place folks statistically dwell the longest. One in three inhabitants of Ikaria lives previous the age of 90, and it’s widespread for folks right here to dwell to 100.

Spending a while right here can assist vacationers perceive the secrets and techniques to an extended life. There are invaluable classes to be taught from speaking to the locals and observing their lifestyle. Along with being a Blue Zone, Ikaria affords lovely seashores like Nas Seaside and high quality wine at Afianes Wines.

Associated: Visit Serifos: The Greek Island for Purists and Naturists

Rhodes is a part of the Dodecanese Greek Islands and is nearer to mainland Turkey than mainland Greece. The medieval metropolis of Rhodes is the must-see attraction of the island and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , added to the most beautiful towns to visit around Rhodes.

The island’s landscapes are dramatic, with towering mountains and contrasting seascapes. Many guests take pleasure in windsurfing and kite browsing on the southern coast of the island.

6 Kefalonia

Positioned west of mainland Greece, Kefalonia is on the Ionian Sea. It has a dry panorama, limestone cliffs, and white sand seashores. The waters listed below are unbelievably blue, and the colourful buildings give the island a full of life feeling that’s completely different from that of the Cyclades. Kefalonia is simple to get to from Athens because it has its personal airport (Kefalonia Worldwide Airport Anna Pollatou). Direct flights from Athens are quick, taking simply over one hour.

A lesser-known grouping of islands off the coast of Greece known as the Sporades. The Sporades comprise 24 islands on the nation’s east coast within the Aegean Sea. Vacationers on the lookout for a less-touristy Greek vacation spot will love the Sporades Island, Skiathos. Skiathos has an open-air cinema for night leisure, cafés, and loads of quaint retailers.

The top attraction is Lalaria Beach which is barely accessible by boat. Lalaria affords surprising turquoise waters and white stone cliffs rising from the ocean. It solely takes 40 minutes to fly from Athens to Skiathos Worldwide Airport.

Kalymnos is one other island within the Dodecanese grouping and makes the proper pairing with Rhodes for a one-week getaway on the Aegean Sea. Kalymnos was initially a sponge fishing village, with the business supporting a lot of the island’s financial system till the inhabitants of sponge fish died out. Between 1859 and 1967, Kalymnos misplaced over 90% of its sponge fishing population . In the present day, tourism is blossoming on the island, and it is changing into a sought-after vacation spot for adventurous vacationers who take pleasure in mountain climbing. The best technique to get right here from Athens is to fly to Kos and take a ferry.

One other Cycladic gem, Anafi, is positioned near Santorini. It affords the identical white-washed buildings and stone streets as Mykonos whereas getting vacationers off the crushed path. As a result of restricted vacationer inhabitants right here, there isn’t the identical degree of infrastructure as a number of the different Greek Islands on this record. Subsequently, one can spend a number of time stress-free on peaceable seashores and enjoying the tranquility of this hidden oasis in Greece.

Guests can try the attractive white-washed structure of the Church of Panagia Kalamiotissa earlier than heading to the seaside. Livoskopos, Roukouna, and Katsouni are the most well-liked seashores on this small island.

2 Santorini

Santorini is a well-known vacation spot for American and Chinese language honeymooners who take pleasure in taking selfies because the solar sinks behind the flooded volcanic crater, the island’s caldera. Whereas this view is taken into account a romantic cliche, it is still worth experiencing it when visiting Oia, the town of white homes and blue roofs . Guests to the island may also have enjoyable taking a street journey to the recent springs at Palia Kameni and the crater of Nea Kameni. The locations to remain in Santorini are concentrated in Imerovigli and Oia, but it surely’s additionally price testing the distinctive village of Pyrgos on the island.

This enchanting Greek island is understood for its prehistoric settlement, Agios Stefanos, and plenty of extra sights price testing. If anybody is on the lookout for a novel Greek vacation with out noise and crowds, then Syros is the way in which to go. From hikes and secluded seashores to historic actions and archaeological wonders, folks won’t ever run out of choices when visiting this island. They are going to take pleasure in exploring Kastri, Ano Meria, Gria Cave, Agia Pakou, Villa Tsiropina, Paralia Kini, and plenty of extra sights on Syros.

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Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Best Greek Islands To Visit In 2024 That Aren’t Santorini Or Mykonos

It's time to start thinking about your next vacation in Greece with this travel guide to the best Greek islands to visit in 2024 that aren't Santorini or Mykonos!

Beautiful coastline of Ithaki

Best Islands in Greece

It might feel like sacrilege to some for me to say this, but Santorini and Mykonos are not the best islands in Greece!

It's not that they're not nice, it's not that they're not pretty.

It's just that EVERYONE in the world seems to want to go there!

Which when you think about it, is a bit strange, considering there's hundreds more islands in Greece to choose from.

So, if you've been planning a vacation in Greece, but feel that Santorini and Mykonos are not for you, perhaps one of these other Greek islands will be more appealing?

Best Greek Islands To Visit

Because different people want different things from a vacation, I've put these Greek islands into different categories. You'll find a description of each one, and then the option to find out more by clicking through to a deeper dive guide.

And why should you listen to me?

Dave Briggs in Milos

I've been living in Greece now for nearly 5 years, both traveling around and writing about this beautiful country. It's a tough job, but someone's got to do it!

Best Up-and-Coming Greek Island – Tinos 

Let's kick off with Tinos, a Greek island that has somehow managed to fly low under the tourist radar for a long time. It's an island I think you're going to start hearing a lot more about in coming years, and also one of my favorite islands in the Cyclades .

I spent 10 days there in 2019 with Vanessa, enjoying both the amazing beaches and picturesque villages. There's a lot to see and do, and it's often been compared to Mykonos as twice as nice but for half the price. 

Sitting in one of the villages in Tinos, Greece

I think this is a bit misleading, because the two islands are very different.

Tinos has a much more laid back vibe, and there's no party scene to speak of. It's a perfect Greek island to visit for anyone that wants to get out and explore an authentic island at their own pace.

Just a 3 or 4 hour ferry ride away from Athens, Tinos makes a nice destination by itself, or a good place to begin a Greek island hopping trip.

Find out more: Tinos Island Travel Guide

Best Greek Island for a Road Trip – Crete

If you're looking to spend all your time on one Greek island, and want a place big enough to drive around for a week or two, Crete is your number one choice. 

Crete is by far the biggest Greek island, and people find themselves returning year after year, attracted to its varied landscapes, beaches and way of life.

Matala caves in Crete. Very Fred Flintstone!

There's ancient history of course, such as the Minoan remains of Knossos and Phaistos, villages where life seems little changed with the passing of years, and some of the best food in the world.

If you're planning a road trip to Crete, you have a choice of places to stay such as hotels, guesthouses and campgrounds. There's even something of a beach free-camping culture on the south coast – if you know where to look!

Find out more: Take a road trip in Crete

Best Greek Island for Couples – Milos

Just a few years ago, Milos would have found itself in the up-and-coming category, but it's fair to say that it's been ‘discovered' now! Whilst we're not talking Santorini levels of tourism, the peak month of August is certainly a lot busier than it used to be.

Swimming at Kleftiko beach, Milos

Milos has always had something of a reputation as a couples island. Perhaps this was due to the Venus de Milo (now on display in the Louvre, Paris) being discovered there. Perhaps not.

Regardless, it's a quiet island perfect for couples, where nightlife activity is a late meal with wine, ouzo and a starry sky. 

There's plenty to do during the day though, with well over 70 beaches in Milos , the options for tours of the island, and some incredible sailing trips.

Find out more here: Milos island travel guide , and if you're interested in discovering more couples islands in Greece, take a look here: Best Greek islands for couples

Best Family friendly Greek island – Naxos

Whilst Mykonos is not totally unsuitable for a family vacation, there are far more suitable Greek islands. Naxos is perhaps the best of them all, boasting a mix of authentic culture, great food. There are also some great beaches in Naxos .

Beaches in Naxos

There's a far more relaxed atmosphere to Naxos, with none of that party vibe that might be off-putting to families with younger kids. Additionally, there's plenty of opportunities for all sorts of activities to keep kids occupied, such as cooking classes, water-sports lessons, and even the Aqua Fun Water Park!

There's also a selection of very family friendly resorts you can choose to stay at, such as Iria Beach Art Hotel, Nissaki Beach Hotel, and Galaxy Hotel Naxos.

Find out more here: Things to do in Naxos

Best Greek island for peace and quiet – Schinoussa

Two of my favourite Cyclades Islands to get away from it all are Iraklia and Schinoussa. They are both ridiculously quiet, with Schinoussa being perhaps the more tranquil. Visit outside of August, and it will feel like you have the place to yourself!

A view over a bay in Schinoussa

Schinoussa is a great choice for anyone who just wants to get away from it all. It would be ideal for anyone seeking a retreat such as artists, writers, and even travel bloggers like me!

When I visited, we stayed in a lovely little room overlooking a beach which had one taverna. Life doesn't get any simpler than waking up, walking to the beach for a swim and a lay down, having a big lunch, and falling asleep on the beach again. Perfect!

Find out more here: Schinoussa Travel Guide

Best Greek island day trip from Athens – Hydra

There's a few islands that can be visited as a day trip from Athens, with Hydra being perhaps the most famous one. This cosmopolitan little place is one of the Saronic Islands just an hour from Athens.

Donkeys on the Greek island of Hydra

Visitors often take what is known as a 3 islands trip, combining a visit to Hydra with Aegina and Poros. I would encourage people to stay the full day – or longer – on Hydra though so as to not be too rushed.

The port town is very quaint, and wandering through the narrow, winding streets feels like being on some sort of romantic adventure. There's plenty of places to eat of course, and you can also take water taxis to various beaches.

Find out more here: Day trip to Hydra

Best Greek island for a weekend break from Athens – Andros

Andros is one of the closest islands to Athens, and can be reached in under two hours by ferry. Whilst unknown to a lot of foreign visitors to Greece, it's a popular weekend destination from Athens.

The island is something of a cultural hot-spot, where wealthy donors fund museums and art galleries. The Andros Museum of Contemporary Art is one such example, where local artists have their work displayed alongside world renowned artists such as Picasso.

Andros Island in Greece

This cultural side to the island lends it an aspect of chic, but it also has plenty of unpretentious beaches and nice places to eat. It's also got one of the most photogenic beaches in Greece – “tis Grias to Pidima”, or “Old Lady's Jump Beach”.

Related: Best Greek Islands For Beaches

Best Greek island for people who have visited Greece before but want to try somewhere new – Patmos

Wow, that was a long category title!

I'll be honest, the reason I came up with it, was I was struggling to fit Patmos into a category, but didn't want to miss it out completely.

A boat floating in a quiet bay in Patmos

And why didn't I want to miss it out?

Find out more here: Patmos Island in Greece

Honourable Mentions

Other Greek islands you should consider visiting, include:

  • Lefkada Travel Guide
  • Ithaca Travel Guide
  • Kefalonia Travel Guide

Islands of Greece FAQ

Readers planning a vacation to the Greek isles often have very different needs. Some like sandy beaches, whereas others like to explore archaeological sites. If you're planning on visiting Greece, these frequently asked questions might help you choose which places to include on an island hopping itinerary:

Which is the nicest Greek island to visit?

All the Greek islands are very nice, and each one has its own personality and attractions. The largest Greek island of Crete is a good choice as there is something to do there for literally everyone.

How do I choose which Greek island to visit?

There are several ways to go about this. For example, you might want to choose an island that has direct international flights or domestic connections with Athens. Alternatively, you might prefer a remote island with few visitors. The best thing to do, is first choose an island group such as the Ionian Islands or Cycladic Islands, and from there narrow down an island to visit.

Which is the quietest Greek island to visit?

The tiny island of Iraklia (one of the Cyclades islands) definitely ticks the box for a quiet, small island in Greece.

Which island of Greece as the best beaches?

As you can imagine, there's a lot of stunning beaches to be enjoyed in Greece! Perhaps Milos, a Cycladic island, has the best variety ranging from golden sand to unique chalky white bays with crystal clear waters.

Whichever Greek island you decide to visit, I hope you have a great time! Have any questions? Leave a comment down below, and I'll get back to you.

Best Greek Islands To Visit In 2020 That Aren't Santorini Or Mykonos

  • Cheapest Greek Islands To Visit
  • Best time of year to visit Greece

Dave Briggs visiting an island in Greece

9 thoughts on “Best Greek Islands To Visit In 2024 That Aren’t Santorini Or Mykonos”

Fantastic information! Do you know which island might have lemon trees?

I’ve seen lemon trees on every island I think – but one thing to remember is they have winter fruits, so if you are traveling in summer you won’t get to see lemons on them!!

Such informative posts! Anywhere you’d suggest for swimming in April? I don’t mind the cold but don’t want a party island. Thanks!

Probably the warmest place for swimming in April would be the south of Crete. Very beautiful too!!

We are planning a holiday for beginning of May 2021. It will be a couple in there late 30’s, there 4 year old daughter and a lady of 60. We would like to make our base in Skiathos for a week and a week in Zakynthos. What would you advise?

Thank you for such an informational website. We will be in Thessaloniki in April or May for 10 days (parents and sons in their 20s). What are your thoughts on Thassos? Is it worth making the trek to Thassos or will Halkidiki suffice for island flavor? Or should we consider flying to Crete for a few days? Thanks.

Hi, I’ve not been to either Thassos or Halkidiki unfortunately, so can’t comment on them. I do know Crete though, and it has a lot of variety. So, if the weather isn’t great there would still be plenty to do. Crete is quite big though – so it’s easy to forget you are on an island. It certainly has it’s own feel and way of life, but I wouldn’t class it as ‘island flavor’. For that, you’d need the smaller islands. Sorry I’ve not been of much help here – but let me know what you thought to Thassos if you decide to go!

Family of 4 4 adults ages 50-60 and early 20’s, Want go explore Greece this summer or relax on one island for a week

Consider Crete.

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Which Greek Island Should You Visit in 2024?

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Beautiful sunset of Hydra island Greece  top view of city center and yaht marina.

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.

View from Plaka town Milos

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 whennbspDakis Joannou Greece's foremost art...

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

Chapel on Sifnos island Greece

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

Oia Santorini Greek Islands

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

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Syros Greece

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

Folegrandos in Greece

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...

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...

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

Naxos old town Greek Islands

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

Best of the Greek islands for Laidback family holidays  CastingnbspPenlope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable....

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

Chora of Andros island early in the morning.

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

Best of the Greek islands for Naturists and purists  The sleeper hit of the Cyclades Serifos is the summer retreat of...

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

Best of the Greek islands for Decadent parties and fivestar hotels  Mykonos had LGBTQ clubs and sunrise parties long...

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

Zakynthos Greek Islands

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

Best of the Greek islands for Deepblue seas and wideopen spaces  Its not easy to get tonbspAmorgos. In high winds the...

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.

The harbour in Paxos Greece

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

A beach on Lefkada Greek Islands

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

Ithaca Greece

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...

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 showstopping villas  Patmos has an indefinablenbspje ne sais quoian...

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

Rhodes windmills and lighthouse fort Greek Islands

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

Symi Greek Islands

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

Chora village Astypalea Greek Islands

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.

Elia beach Skiathos in Greece

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 fornbspLowkey authenticity all year round  Unusually for Greece Aegina is truly an island for...

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

Best of the Greek islands fornbspCastaway dreams and swimming through caves  Michael Anastassiades Lynda Benglis Savvas...

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

Antiparos Church Cyclades Greece

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 fornbspDistinctive architecture and good vibes  Long overlooked because of its checkered...

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

Best of the Greek islands fornbspFamily holidays with the smart society set  If it werent for Sotirios Anargyros Spetses...

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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Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes.

The 25 best Greek islands to visit in 2023

There’s a Greek island to suit every traveller — if you know where to look.

Greece’s numerous isles are best known for their idyllic beaches, toes-in-the-sand tavernas and laidback pace of life. But for those willing to explore a little further, cloud-circled clifftop villages, local markets stocked with mountain herbs and secret stretches of sand await.  

Walk this way

Crete’s gorges and mountains echo not just with tumbling rocks, but with myth, infusing every realm of Cretan life just as olive oil infuses every Cretan recipe. According to Greek mythology, it was on this island that Zeus was born in a mountain cave and that Theseus braved the Labyrinth to slay the Minotaur. And the fridge of every taverna is well-stocked with Mythos, Greece’s best-selling beer.

The hardy souls who once made Samaria Gorge their home are gone now, moved out to make way for Samaria National Park in 1962. The 10-mile hike through the gorge isn’t particularly dangerous or difficult, but nothing motorised can reach down here and the nearest helipad is several miles down the track — break a leg, and you’re carried out the old-fashioned way: on the back of a mule.  

Trees of cypress and maple shade the path as rock formations rear up on either side, the latter’s faces twisted and deeply ridged like carved flames. The air is heavy with the aroma of mountain herbs: wild thyme, oregano, Jerusalem sage. DANIEL STABLES

2. Kefalonia

Ionia's wine country

The rugged mountains and cream-coloured beaches of Kefalonia have been winning over travellers for decades, but as Greek wine’s international profile grows, the Ionian island’s wine country is providing another reason to visit. Kefalonia is renowned for its signature Robola grape, which is used to produce an excellent, crisp white wine. The grape’s heartland is the Omala Valley, on the western slopes of Kefalonia’s Mount Ainos .  

The vineyards of the Omala Valley benefit from a hillside position and limestone-enhanced soils that account for the grapes’ balanced acidity and rich flavour. At Orealios Gaea , a winemaking cooperative supporting around 300 growers, and at wineries including Vassilakis , you can sample the latest vintages of Robola, as well as other Greek varietals like Mavrodafni and Muscat. Sticking with the wine theme, travellers can spend the night at Gentilini Retreat (from £96, room only), set within a seaside winery. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Hiking through Samaria Gorge, Crete.

Island-hopping

For the perfect getaway from busy Athens, head to Spetses. It’s a two-and-a-half-hour cruise away, meaning it tends to avoid the bulk of the day-tripping crowds. Piney and beachy, it greets arrivals with a jigsaw waterfront of tile-roofed sea captains’ houses, palms and cypresses. The main square is carpeted in pebble mosaics and overlooked by a statue of a woman, dressed in traditional costume, with a pistol. This is Laskarina Bouboulina, a naval commander and heroine of the Greek War of Independence. Nearby, her family home now houses a small museum dedicated to her legacy.

Author John Fowles taught English on Spetses before writing The Magus , the novel forever linked to the island. Cinematic hits The Lost Daughter , with Olivia Colman, and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery , with Daniel Craig, were filmed here, and a TV miniseries of The Magus is in the works. Spetses is largely car-free (taxis are permitted), so hire a bike to pedal the 17 miles around the island; don’t miss Zogeria beach, where The Lost Daughter was filmed.  

The best place to stay is the Poseidonion Grand Hotel (from £178, B & B), built in 1914 to lure wealthy Athenians to Spetses and the first Greek island hotel to offer bespoke spa treatments. DANA FACAROS

4. Santorini

Volcano touring

Honeymooners love the Cycladic island of Santorini, where sugar-white villages and bubble-domed churches teeter on blackened cliffs, offering spine-tingling views over the fathomless caldera, formed in around 1620 BC in one of the largest volcanic eruptions of the past 10,000 years. Frescoes from the Late Bronze Age town of Akrotiri that were buried in ash following the eruption are on display at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and are so charming you’ll wonder if Santorini really was Atlantis. To experience the volcano’s heat and sulphurous smell, sail across the caldera to Nea Kameni island, whose volcano last erupted in 1950.

There’s also the island of Thirasia, where villages delightfully evoke pre-tourism Santorini. The real action, however, is underwater: the submerged volcano Kolumbo, the most active in the Aegean, is rumbling again. The Santorini Paradise Cave Houses in Oia (from £135, B & B) has the frisson-giving views. DANA FACAROS

Spetses island, a filming location for Olivia Colman’s The Lost Daughter.

Sea kayaking

To the west of Santorini, Milos was formed by a volcanic eruption and its 80-mile coastline is scattered with geological wonders. You have to go by sea, ideally in a kayak , to see its highlights, among them the formations of volcanic ash as white and frothy as meringue, the red-and-yellow precipices, and an abandoned sulphur mine with a yellow beach. Also look out for the black basalt cliffs, the towering sea rocks shaped like dancing bears, and the pocket-sized ports with colourful boat garages hollowed out of the stone. Stay at White Rock Milos Suites near the kayak base in Adamas (from £102, B & B).  

For jaw-dropping inland views, hire a quad to tackle the road up Profitis Ilias, whose 2,450ft summit makes it the tallest mountain on the island. In the capital, Plaka, you’ll find the nation’s only catacombs and the Archaeological Museum of Milos, which houses a replica of the Louvre’s famed Venus de Milo sculpture. DANA FACAROS

Artist residency

Just two hours from Athens by boat, car-free Hydra has long been known as an island of artists, with galleries, studios and cultural festivals creating a spirited atmosphere. Gliding into Hydra’s harbour, tiers of stone houses glitter in the soft sunlight, rising up imposing rocky mountains. This car-free island in the Saronic Gulf attracts visitors with its lively port and sense of utter timelessness — there are no billboards or scooters here, and the influence of technology feels very far away.

A visit to Hydra is an immersion in the best of Greek life and art. Start your explorations by strolling beyond the cannons on the point to reach the DESTE Foundation , where an annual installation of art world stars fills a former slaughterhouse on the seafront. For a change of scene, take a walk along Hydra’s marble lanes and onto its rustic coastal trails, which lead to myriad craggy coves with deep cerulean waters. Settle down and enjoy the views over a coffee or cocktail at Hydronetta beach bar before strolling a mile down the northwest coast for a leisurely seafood taverna lunch at Marina in the beachside hamlet of Vlychos, or the Four Seasons — no relation to the large hotel chain — at Plakes Beach for sunbeds and iced cappuccinos.    

For somewhere to stay, try the new Keresbino hotel (doubles from £150, room only) deep in the heart of Hydra town. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Left: Lazaros Koundouriotis Historical Mansion in Hydra.

7. Kastellorizo

Cultural fusion

‘Airport’ is a grandiose term for the narrow strip of tarmac and shed that greet me on arrival on the island of Kastellorizo. Closer to the Turkish mainland than it is to Athens, it’s the country’s most far-flung island, where permanent residents number just 300 and the only action happens around the harbour, where wild turtles bob sedately between traditional fishing kaikia (boats).

Naturally, it’s there I’m headed. There’s just one taxi on the island and I jump in, bound for the pretty, pastel-hued coast. “Turkey,” says the heavily moustached driver, pointing to the mirage-like stretch of land visible across the sea when we arrive.

I’m here to meet yiadiades (Greek grandmothers) as part of my research for my next book, Yiayia , a collection of their recipes. The reason is simple: Kastellorizo is where Greek and Turkish customs and cultures collide, which means it’s home to some of Greece’s most interesting dishes. ANASTASIA MIARI

Beyond the nightlife

The beaches on Mykonos’s southwest coast are among the Med’s best for parties, but head east to find a different vibe among a rocky, filigreed coastline dotted with sandy coves.

Park your vehicle in the dirt lot and stride over the low dunes to find perfect little Fokos Bay , where deep, sheltered waters offer delightful swimming for all ages. Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, head on over to the renowned taverna overlooking the sand for a lazy seafood lunch.

Stroll west around the headland to the next beach along — the gentle arc of Mersini beach, which is usually the least-crowded on Mykonos. Bring your own sun mat and even an umbrella as this beach is service-free: wild and raw, and perfectly matched to the nakedness of many of the sunbathers who make the pilgrimage out here. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Kastellorizo island.

9. Karpathos

Traditional ways

Dropped into the inky Aegean between Crete and Rhodes, Karpathos feels like it belongs to a different age. This pristine, far-flung spot in the Dodecanese is locally renowned for its white-sand beaches, hugged by pine trees up until the water’s edge.  

Nestled atop a cliff, you’ll find one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Olympos has held onto its traditional ways thanks to its remoteness. Here, local women still sport the colourful, traditional folk dress — embroidered waist coats, full skirts and leather boots — that’s long since been abandoned in the rest of the country. It’s a chance to experience a part of Greece as it once was, and worth the drive. ANASTASIA MIARI

10. Kythera

Kythera remains a nugget of Old Greece, isolated south of the Peloponnese, where family-run hotels dot the beaches, welcoming tavernas spill out onto the streets and old-timey kafeneions (coffeeshops) still echo to the click clack of games of backgammon.  

It’s a bucolic island of dramatic landscapes, sacred to Aphrodite, who was born here in sea foam. Stay in the Palaeopoli Villas (from £66, room only) near the fishing village of Avlemonas, and hire a car to explore the pretty castle-topped capital Chora, the waterfall at Milopotamos, the Venetian-era ghost town of Palaiochora and the Sunday farmers’ market in Potamos, where all the locals meet. DANA FACAROS

11. Elafonisos

Simple pleasures

Simos beach, where twin crescents of dunes form an hourglass in the turquoise sea, is irresistible. But you have to work to get there; Elafonisos is in the southeast Peloponnese, a short ferry hop from Pounta, which is a four-hour drive from Athens airport or just under three hours from Kalamata.

All the hotels are small, including the Elafonisos Resort (from £82, B & B). There are other gorgeous sandy beaches but only one ‘sight’, the world’s oldest submerged city, 5,000-year-old Pavlopetri, so bring your snorkel. Elafonisos is no longer a secret, but it’s not spoiled; Elafonisos Eco , the first environmental association on a Greek island, is dedicated to keeping it that way. DANA FACAROS

Left: Making fresh pasta in the small village of Olympos, Karpathos.

12. Agistri

Quick escape

This tiny, pristine teardrop of an island sits a mere 50 minutes from Athens. The high-speed ferry zips first to the island of Aegina and then 10 minutes further to the even more remote-feeling shores of Agistri.

The island is easily walkable, with a dense blanket of pine trees offering welcome shade. In July and August, Agistri’s pair of harbours, Skala and Megalochori, thrum with sunseekers who come for the island’s radiant waters. June and September are the ideal months to visit for fewer crowds and warm seas. Head for beaches such as Draghonera and Aponissos in the west, or closer to Skala there’s clothing-optional Chalikiada Beach, backed by cliffs. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

13. Skiathos

Design hotels

The queen of the Sporades Islands is a magnet for beach lovers. It’s also the ideal option for those looking for alternative accommodation, thanks to its blossoming design hotel scene. Built into the hillside, the Atrium Hotel (from £185, B & B) is top of the list — a rural haven created by a family of architects. Over by the powdery blonde strand of Koukounaries, at the western end of the island, Elivi Skiathos (from £275, B & B) is making a five-star splash with its flowing spaces and calming neutral-toned rooms. Or there’s the adults-only Aegean Suites (from £260, B & B), which has just 20 rooms opposite Megali Ammos beach. ISABELLA NOBLE

Family-friendly

Families are never bored on Rhodes, even during cooler spring and autumn breaks. Young imaginations are fascinated by the Old City, with its walls, moats and Palace of the Grand Masters built by the Knights of St John. A new cinema, the Throne of Helios , brings the island’s action-filled history and famous Colossus to life for little ones.  

Away from Rhodes Town, stroll through the Valley of the Butterflies , or Farma Rhodes where kids can feed ostriches. Near the waterpark in Faliraki, under-12s stay free at the Grecotel LuxMe Dama Dama (rooms for four from £247). DANA FACAROS

Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights, Rhodes.

Island of immortals

Remote and savagely beautiful, Ikaria is one of the world’s five Blue Zones, places with inhabitants of remarkable longevity, with incredibly high percentages of centenarians. Ikaria, which is just 30 miles off the coast of Turkey, in the eastern Aegean, is one of them — alongside Sardinia (Italy), Okinawa (Japan), Nicoya (Costa Rica) and Loma Linda (California). More than 30% of Ikarians live into their nineties, generally free from chronic illness and dementia, and many hit 100.  

One possible reason for this is genes. But Ikarians also benefit from an outdoor lifestyle in tune with nature, a plant-based diet rich in wild herbs, vegetables, pulses, olive oil and natural wine, a lack of stress and tight-knit communities. Today’s centenarians have had tough, self-sufficient lives, working in the fields and tending vines and olive groves, often without roads, phones or convenience foods. In short, the opposite of what the western world perceives as progress. KERRY WALKER

Greece's craft heartland

In the Sporades island group north of Athens, Skyros is a vision of deep-blue bays bordered by pine trees, with a string of chic, laid-back, whitewashed villages. Famously the last home for the endangered Skyrian horse, a miniature Greek breed that roams in the mountains, the island is also unique for its thriving artisanal tradition, stretching back to the Byzantine era.

The island’s living artisanal scene can be experienced on a stroll through the tangled, white-walled streets of the capital, Skyros Town, which cascades down the hillside from a now-restored kastro (fortress) of Byzantine and Venetian origins. From ceramicists and embroiderers to watercolour painters and woodworkers, this is where most of the island’s artisans have their workshops and sell their pieces to people who pop in for a chat. ISABELLA NOBLE

Episkopi church in Chora, the capital of Skyros.

Secret beaches

Dolphin-shaped Kos in the Dodecanese was the 5th-century BC birthplace of Hippocrates, the ‘Father of Medicine’. His followers founded the Asklepieion, the most important healing sanctuary in the ancient world, where relaxation was part of the cure. Today, the ‘cure’ visitors seek in Kos is on the sunbeds of smart beach resorts. When Kos Town seems too busy, head out west to Kefalos and the ‘dolphin’s tail’ for its secret beaches: sandy Agios Theologos, with an excellent taverna and gorgeous sunsets; picturesque and rocky Tripiti, or cliff-backed quiet Kata, at the end of half-a-mile of rough road. For a place to stay, try Kouros Palace in Mastichari (from £99, B & B). DANA FACAROS

Homer's Odyssey

Homer’s adjectives ‘narrow’, ‘rocky’, ‘unfit for riding horses’ describe Ithaca perfectly, but was this Ionian island the kingdom of Odysseus? Some scholars say no, but the locals disagree.

Stay in Hotel Familia in the capital Vathy (from £75, B & B) and seek out the sites where they believe the Odyssey took place. South of Vathy, there’s the field where Odysseus met his father Laertes, the Cave of the Nymphs where he hid his treasure, and the plateau of Marathias, where he stayed with Eumaeus. North of Vathy, Stavros has Mycenaean-era walls identified as Odysseus’s palace and an archaeological collection that includes a 2nd-century BC mask inscribed ‘Pray to Odysseus’. DANA FACAROS

Idyllic escape

Most visitors to Greece’s second-largest island are Greek, but even only a few of them have heard of the Lichadonisia. Lush and volcanic, these seven uninhabited islets off Evia’s northwest coast are nicknamed the ‘Seychelles of Greece’ for the thousands of blue-and-green shades in the shallow sea in which they sit.  

Boats to the islands depart from Kavos on Evia’s Lichada peninsula. While here, stop at the seafood tavernas in the fishing village of Agios Georgios Lichados, take a tour of the Vriniotis vineyards , or brave the dirt road to the often deserted Krokodil beach. Reward yourself with a soak at the Thermae Sylla in the spa town of Edipsos. The Ilia Mare , east of Edipsos, is a great base (from £66, B & B). DANA FACAROS

Right: Private yacht at anchor in a lagoon, Ithaka.

Coming into its own

A short ferry hop from its sister in the Cyclades, Santorini, Ios has been dogged for decades by its reputation as a hippy hangout and party island — the latter acquired in the ’80s, when backpackers flocked here to sleep on its sandy beaches and blast away the cobwebs in the bars along the bougainvillea-lined alleys of capital Chora.

In 2014, though, all that started to change when Greek stockbroker-turned-artist Angelos Michalopoulos and his wife, Vasso, bought a chunk of the island around the ancient Cycladic site of Skarkos and launched the Mediterranean’s largest private conservation project, to be left exactly as nature intended — only with 55,000 new trees.

Vowing to develop only 1% of their land, the couple built their flagship luxury resort, Calilo , comprising a dozen plush suites clad in monochrome mosaics and featuring lagoon-like pools, on a remote plot of land overlooking Papas Beach (suites from £422, B & B), and Pathos Sunset Lounge , a chill-out venue that hosts big-name DJs. Gone are the tacky souvenir shops in Chora’s windmill-studded port, and in are indie boutiques selling Greek designer wear, hyper-local tipples — innovative vintner Georgós Zanganas has just launched the island’s first modern winery — and chic new cocktail bars such as Click. HEIDI FULLER-LOVE

Traditional windmills above the town of Chora, Ios.

22. Alonissos

Underwater museum

Alonissos is a short hop from cosmopolitan Skiathos, but couldn’t be more different: rustic, sparsely populated, forested and tranquil. Queen of its own little uninhabited archipelago, it’s surrounded by the pristine seas of Europe’s largest marine reserve , home to the critically endangered monk seal, as well as Eleanora’s falcons, dolphins and whales. Visit aboard the Stella , from where you may just spot some of the resident wildlife between swims off islands.  

In 1985, Dimitris Mavrikis was fishing off nearby Peristera island when he spotted an ancient, 30-metre-long shipwreck that turned out to be loaded with 4,000 amphorae dating to around 425 BC. Soon the wreck was dubbed the Parthenon of Shipwrecks, and last year it became Greece’s first underwater museum . Divers can book an immersive experience; landlubbers can enjoy a virtual-reality tour at the information centre in Chora, the former hilltop capital. The village was devastated by an earthquake in 1965 but is now mostly restored and famous for its glorious sunsets.    

Most residents live near the port of Patitiri in the south of the island, where the Ikion Eco Boutique Hotel (from £109, B & B) is a great place to stay. DANA FACAROS

An island reborn

Floating between the heel of Italy and the western shores of mainland Greece, close to the border with Albania, the strategic position of Kerkyra (as locals know it) has lured in outsiders since antiquity. It’s this legacy of foreign rule that you can see reflected in every street of the island’s atmospheric Old Town. Its two forbidding forts and patchwork of sinuous alleys, crammed with terracotta-tiled townhouses, are testament to four centuries of Venetian occupation; the elegant arcades and pavement cafes of the Liston extend to a lawned cricket ground left by the British in the 19th century. ZOË MCINTYRE

Left: Alexis dairy shop in Corfu Old Town.

Greek mojitos

Greeks call the big, north-Aegean island of Chios ‘Myrovolos’ (‘fragrant’) for its citrus groves and wild herbs, but above all for the gum mastic trees that grow only here. Even on this island, they only flourish on the hills of the south; evergreen, with trunks that writhe like dancers at a bacchanalia. In summer, the trees undergo the ‘needling’ that will make the trees weep ‘tears’ — the sweet resin that dries and hardens and has been prized since antiquity, used to treat stomach ailments, to make cosmetics, sweets and the liqueur in a Greek mojito, and as a varnish for paintings.  

Chios is made for touring. Don’t miss the Byzantine mosaics at 11th-century Nea Moni monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the ghost town of Anavatos, abandoned since a massacre of the townsfolk by the Ottomans in 1822 (Eugène Delacroix’s famous painting of this, now in the Louvre Museum, rallied international support for the Greek War of Independence). ‘Craggy Chios’, as Homer called it, defines the north of the island — here, aim for the village of Volissos, with its medieval castle, high above beautiful Agia Markella Beach.

The lively capital, Chios Town, rebuilt after an earthquake in 1881, still has its Byzantine castle walls, as well as several museums and four seafront windmills. Just to the north, Vrontados is popular over Greek Easter, when rival churches bombard each other with homemade fireworks. DANA FACAROS

For food lovers

The Cyclades’ largest island has been a celebrated food producer for centuries, thanks to its fertile soil and freshwater springs. The island’s sixth-century Temple of Demeter, built to honour the goddess of the harvest, is a symbol of this prowess. Surrounding it are mountain vineyards, village tavernas and markets.

All of which makes Naxos one of Greece’s most delicious destinations. In the whitewashed capital of Hora, crowned by a hilltop Venetian castle, visitors should try the popular restaurant Doukato , set in a former monastery, for island recipes such as kalogeras (beef, aubergine and cheese). For a more modern spin with small plates and views across the Cyclades, there’s Avaton 1739 , located on the roof of the castle. Escaping town, visitors can join a culinary tour with Vioma to meet local producers and chefs, or learn to make Naxian specialities on one of its cooking classes. Drive inland to sample the island’s signature liqueur, kitron, made from the leaves of the citron fruit, at Vallindras Distillery . ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Getting there & around

Crete, Corfu, Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini and Skiathos have regular direct flights from the UK in summer. Airlines serving some or all of these islands include British Airways , EasyJet , Ryanair and TUI . All islands, with the exception of the few that lack airports (such as Agistri, Elafonisos, Hydra, Ios, and Spetses), are linked to Athens by regular flights on Aegean Airlines and its affiliate Olympic Airlines , as well as other Greek carriers such as Sky Airlines .

All islands have regular ferry services in high season (July and August) and some, such as Mykonos and Santorini, are ferry hubs with routes that serve many other islands. The boat networks in the Ionian and Aegean Seas have myriad routes and   operators, so consult openseas.gr or ferries.gr . Ferries from Athens leave from the port of Pireaus. The Cyclades has the largest ferry network and is the easiest region to island-hop in. Book via ferryhopper.com or individual ferry companies.  

Average flight time: 4h

The best time to visit is May to September; average temperatures in August are around 30C but it can get much hotter. In April and October, some businesses operate shorter hours or close completely. Some ferry services only run in summer.

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Forget Mykonos and Santorini — Syros is the Greek Island You Must Visit This Summer

Syros may lack the white-sand wonders of its more popular neighbors. But for a certain kind of in-the-know traveler, that’s precisely its appeal.

As my husband, Emilio, and I lay on the deck of our Airbnb, I realized I’d run out of time to shower before the symphony. Eyeing the ladder that descended into the Aegean, I told Emilio that I would just jump into the ocean instead.

“Any time you can say that, it’s a good day,” he replied.

Every summer, after visiting my relatives in northern Greece, my husband and our two young children — Amalia, 6, and Nico, 3 — set out to discover someplace in the country new to us. We’d been on the Cycladic island of Syros for only half an hour, but we could already tell we’d made a good choice. On other islands, such as Syros’s neighbor, Mykonos, we’d debated whether to stay in town or on the beach. Here, we were in the heart of Ermoúpolis, the Cyclades’ capital — an Italianate dream of palazzos, theaters, and cafés that is home to half the population of Syros — but the sea was steps from our front door.

While Syros is on the same ferry line as Mykonos, it sees a fraction of that island’s foreign pilgrims, perhaps because it was long viewed as a commercial and industrial hub with massive shipbuilding operations. With fewer spectacular beaches than some of the Cyclades, Syros doesn’t fit the lazy-whitewashed-village-atop-a-sandy-shore vision most Americans have of the islands. The visitors who do come — the majority are from France and Scandinavia — are drawn by the festivals and thriving art scene, the more than 1,300 Neoclassical buildings, and the incredible cuisine.

If Ermoúpolis keeps Syros from being thought of as a desert-isle dream, the fact that the island has a thriving city by the sea makes it alluring to those interested in life beyond the beach. Bobbing in the waves opposite our room, I gazed up at the row of palazzos. Nearby, teenagers cannonballed off the large dock that is the town swimming spot. Atop the hill that rose behind them was the blue and gold dome of the church of Agios Nikolaos, patron saint of sailors. The view of Ermoúpolis from the sea, I realized, is even more stunning than the view of the sea from the land.

That evening, I found myself staring up again — this time at the ceiling of the Apollon Theater, which opened in 1864 and was modeled after La Scala and other Italian theaters. We were attending the opening night of the Festival of the Aegean , a two-week celebration of opera, music, and dance held every July. Before picking up his baton, the Greek-American conductor Peter Tiboris, the festival’s founder, urged the audience to notice the frescoes. The outer ring shows Verdi, Bellini, Dante, and Mozart; the inner ring Homer, Aeschylus, and Euripides.

The ceiling is a diplomatic representation of the blending of cultures that continues to thrive on Syros. Modern Syros was settled by the descendants of Venetian merchants who put down roots in Ano Syros, a village high above the harbor, in the 13th century. After the Greek War of Independence in the 1820s, refugees from the battle-scarred islands poured into Ano Syros — only to be forced down to the harbor by the residents. The newcomers, mostly sailors and merchants, prospered and brought in the Neoclassical architects who transformed Ermoúpolis from a rocky port into an elegant city. Today, the descendants of the Italians and Greeks are intermixed, and local couples often have two weddings, one right after the other — the first in a Catholic church, the second in a Greek Orthodox one.

Ermoúpolis is still full of the aristocratic buildings the refugees commissioned, most notably the ornate 1876 town hall. It overlooks Miaouli Square, a supersize version of the classic Greek plateia . Since this is Syros — where the population is twice that of Mykonos, although the islands are roughly the same size — the square has more locals than tourists. Often there are also opera singers or a temporary screen for a film festival.

“We host 15 festivals per year,” Thomai Mendrinou, the vice-mayor of culture, told me. There are festivals devoted to the accordion, the organ, and the guitar; to tango, jazz, and video art. Aside from two events run by the municipality, Mendrinou noted, “all of them were started by nonresidents who fell in love with the island.”

It was a story I heard again and again — the visitor enchanted by Syros who found a way to stay by indulging his or her passion. Over coffee on the deck of the Hotel Ploes (doubles from $205) , a waterfront palazzo filled with antiques and modern art, Lia Mastoraki described the moment she and her husband, who dreamed of opening a boutique property, visited Syros and saw the building. “It was a completely emotional decision,” she admitted.

I’d felt something similar during my pretheater bath in the Aegean. I realized that this must be why so many travelers I had met were repeat visitors. They’ve found a place where they feel at home.

At Peri Tinos (entrées $9–$57) , right on the harbor, I acted like a tourist when I Instagrammed my ceviche, which was spread atop a breadstick dyed fuchsia with beet juice. But I felt like I was eating with family when the waiter taught our kids how to fillet a fish. At night, in Ano Syros, an old man sitting outside his door directed us to the main street (“just follow the music”), where we ate at Lili’s (30-2281-088-087; entrées $10–$32) . The taverna is virtually unchanged since it opened in 1953, with portraits of the owner’s grandparents on the walls.

The next day, back in Ermoúpolis, I made a pilgrimage to the Assumption of the Virgin Church to see an El Greco icon “discovered” in 1982. It had hung there, unnoticed, since it was brought to the island more than a century earlier, likely by a Cretan refugee. The icon getting the most attention that day, however, was one of the Virgin Mary laden with votives and jewelry left by grateful supplicants. It turned out that a fellow visitor, a man in shorts, had left his Rolex before the icon the previous summer. “Elias, you’re back!” the bearded priest shouted, embracing him.

I could have happily stayed in Ermoúpolis. But I wanted to explore the rest of the island. So we moved to Villa Evelina, part of White Key Villas (from $12,710 per week) , which overlooks Ampela Beach. White Key manages more than 300 privately owned villas in Greece. With an infinity pool, a Jacuzzi, tennis courts, and access to a chapel, this one made me envy the owners who get to call it home, but it was also sunny and cozy. Amalia learned to snorkel in the shallow water off Ampela, and Emilio ventured to the submerged cliffs he described as “an underwater Grand Canyon.”

On most Greek islands, people drive from beach to beach. On Syros, it’s from restaurant to restaurant. Our favorite was Allou Yialou (entrées $11–$46) , in the beach town of Kini. The marinated red mullet came served on seasoning “sand” dotted with shells. When the waiter spotted Nico napping on two chairs pushed together, he found a beach towel to serve as a pillow.

In our last hour, I deposited my family opposite the ferry landing and went in search of loukoumi ice cream, which was inspired by the island’s famous pink Turkish delight. Not finding any, I settled for pistachio. Then, turning back toward the dock, I noticed a hole-in-the-wall sweetshop with a small ice cream counter. There it was.

I threw my half-eaten pistachio in the trash and bought a cone of the rose-flavored loukoumi . A minor sin as far as waste and gluttony go, but out of character for a mom who counts calories and limits showers to four minutes. Like so many others, I had fallen in love with Syros and lost all common sense.

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The 9 Best Greek Islands: Your Cheat Sheet on Where to Go in Greece

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See recent posts by Kelsey Blodget

Your Greek island vacation dream may start like this: You see a gorgeous photo of white cube houses, stunning blue sea, and winding cobblestone streets, and you know you have to see it in person. But then the research begins, and you realize there are thousands of Greek islands, and you don't know your Cyclades from your Dodecanese . Not to fret. We've done the legwork for you and identified the nine best and most popular Greek islands to help you narrow down your options. And we've also outlined what's great about them, the easiest ways to get to them (plus how to hop between them, when possible), and where to stay once you get there. Those hoping for beach weather will certainly find it in the summertime, which is high season -- though visitors can expect nice weather in May, June, September, and October as well (plus slightly more reasonable prices).

The Cyclades

1. Santorini

View from the pool at the Lilium Villas Santorini

View from the pool at the Lilium Villas Santorini/Oyster

Santorini is arguably the most famous of the Greek islands, and for good reason. Not only is there never a shortage of things to do in Santorini , but the island is also a postcard-perfect destination with the famous Cycladic architecture people often associate with the Greek islands. The whitewashed buildings are often adorned with blue accent shutters or doors, creating a color palette that reflects the sky and sea, and built into rugged cliffs that slope toward the water.

How to Get There : The easiest way to get to Santorini is to fly from Athens. It’s a 45-minute trip by plane, there are frequent flights every day, and prices are usually in the $50 to $150 range round-trip. (Those who book on a budget airline like Ryanair should note that checking a bag can add on to the price tag, however.) To go by ferry, take the metro from Athens to Piraeus (about a 30-minute trip), and get the ferry at the port there. The high-speed ferries take five hours to reach Santorini and are around $120 round-trip. Slower ferries (including overnight options) take eight hours and are smoother rides; fares for these are a bit cheaper, around $85 round-trip. Major ferry companies include Blue Star, Seajets, and Hellenic Seaways. Some ferries allow cars.

What to Do: Many travelers to Santorini are content to relax, read, dine, explore cute towns, and soak up the amazing views. However, there are actually some great sights here besides the vistas. Specifically, the Archaeological Museum of Thera, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira , the Minoan Bronze Age ruins at the Akrotiri Archaeological Site , and the Santorini Volcano (visitors typically book a tour that includes a boat trip to the volcanic island, Nea Kameni, and a guided hike). There is a cable car from Fira down to the port where ships depart, or travelers can make the steep walk. (Some opt for donkey rides, but it’s worth knowing that the donkeys are not treated well.)

Where to Stay: Many visitors to Santorini are honeymooners or couples, and there are scores of luxury hotels here designed with romance in mind. Most of these are located in and around the charming cliffside towns of Fira , Firostefani , Imerovigli , and Oia , which have adorable traditional (if touristy) villages and stunning views of the sunken caldera and volcano. Oia, located on the island’s northwestern tip, is well-known for its superlative sunset views — though expect selfie-stick wielding crowds at the best vantage points during the summer. Luckily, sunsets can be enjoyed from all of these towns, not just Oia (as well as from sunset cruises); for a truly relaxing experience, book a hotel with a sunset view, such as Lilium Villas Santorini in Fira or Art Maisons Luxury Santorini Hotels Aspaki & Oia Castle . Many hotels also offer romantic extras like private plunge pools or in-room hot tubs (such as the Pegasus Suites & Spa in Imerovigli ). Though Santorini isn’t as known for its sandy shores as Mykonos, those seeking the beach should head to the island’s eastern coast, where hotels such as  Cavo Bianco offer close proximity.

Hotels in this story

Myconian Utopia Resort, Elia Beach

Myconian Utopia Resort, Elia Beach/Oyster

When it comes to popularity among the Greek Islands, Mykonos is a close second to Santorini. Mykonos Town is as charming and idyllic as any villages found in the Greek islands, and like Santorini, Mykonos has plenty of stunning luxury hotels on offer. But while some hotels do have a stunning outlook over the Aegean, in general, Mykonos isn’t as known for its views as Santorini. It is known, however, for its beautiful sandy beaches and hopping nightlife scene.

How to Get There: It’s a 40-minute flight from Athens to Mykonos, and round-trip flights range from around $50 to $250. While it’s certainly possible to score flights on the lower end of the range if you have flexible dates, prices skew a little bit higher than the flights to Santorini. For those coming by ferry, fast ferries (not available year-round) take around two and a half hours, and slow ferries take around five hours. Round-trip tickets range from around $50 to $150. One advantage of the ferries is that it is often possible to book a same-day ticket, which can be harder with flights (though ferries do occasionally sell out). Santorini and Mykonos are two and a half hours apart via ferry. As of summer 2017, there are no direct flights between the islands, though Condor Air has offered this route in the past.

What to Do:  For most, Mykonos is all about exploring the various beaches and exploring Mykonos Town . But the ancient ruins at Delos, a small island off of Mykonos, are well worth an excursion. In Mykonos Town, Little Venice is a hip waterfront district that’s worth a stop, and the windmills above the town are a popular spot to snag a photo.

Where to Stay: The majority of Mykonos hotels are located in or near Mykonos Town , or along the beaches on the south shore. Those who want to spend their time exploring the adorable cobblestone alleyways of Mykonos Town, sampling its restaurants, and hitting up its nightlife (which can be hopping in high season) may prefer this location; some of the hotels a bit outside of town can also have gorgeous Aegean views, like Cavo Tagoo . If the beach is a priority, consider a stay along popular stretches of sand like Platys Gialos , Ornos , Elia Beach , Paraga, or Psarou. Petasos Beach Hotel & Spa has a terrific location right in between Platis Gialos and Psarou beaches. Myconian Villa Collection overlooks Elia Beach, and is a five-minute walk from a private section on the sand.

Paros Bay Hotel, Parikia

Paros Bay Hotel, Parikia/Oyster

Paros lies in between Mykonos and Santorini. It’s larger in size than its two famous neighbors but gets fewer visitors, contributing to a more laid-back feel, not to mention lower prices. But it’s still plenty picturesque, and beaches here are nicer than on Santorini. It’s still among the more popular Greek islands, though, so don’t expect to have the place to yourself.

How to Get There: There are daily 40-minute flights from Athens, though there aren’t as many per day as there are to Santorini or Mykonos. Flight prices tend to be more expensive, between $100 and $200. Rather than flying straight to Paros, many hit up Santorini or Mykonos first and take the ferry. It’s a two-hour ferry ride from Santorini and round-trip prices are around $50 to $100. The ferry to Mykonos takes around 45 minutes and a round-trip ticket costs a little under $100. There are also ferries to Paros from Athens.

What to Do: Like Mykonos, Paros has a thriving party scene. It’s also a popular kitesurfing and windsurfing spot. Beach-hopping is the main activity here, although historic Panayia Ekatondapiliani church in Parikia is well worth a visit, as is the Archaeological Museum.

Where to Stay : Parikia and Naoussa are the two main destinations here. The former is the capital and the ferry port, featuring a large and charming old town. Naoussa is smaller and also quaint (though it can get full of tourists in high season), with a charming old fishing harbor and lots of seafood restaurants. Both are near excellent beaches, but Paros’ size means there are many beaches to explore all over the island, including the popular Golden Beach. Lefkes is a traditional inland town that is worth a visit.  Senia Hotel is a charming family-run option right above Piperi Beach, within a five-minute walk of the shops and restaurants in Naoussa.

Beach at the Iria Beach Art Hotel, Agia Anna

Beach at the Iria Beach Art Hotel, Agia Anna/Oyster

Naxos is directly to the east of Paros, and the largest island of the Cyclades. Paros and Naxos have a lot in common, including nice beaches, although Paros has more ferry connections and better bus service, while Naxos has a more mountainous interior, more villages to visit, and slightly less tourism development and nightlife.

How to Get There: There are a few flights per day to Naxos, and the trip takes 40 minutes. Prices are in the $150 to $200 range. There are multiple ferries per day from Paros, and the trip takes 25 to 45 minutes and costs around $25 to $60 round-trip. Ferries from Athens are four to five hours, and Naxos also has ferries to other Greek islands, including Mykonos and Santorini.

What to Do: As on Paros, for most days center around the beach, and both kitesurfing and windsurfing can be enjoyed here. But there are also several interesting archaeological sights, principally the Portara , nearly all that’s left of the Temple of Apollo, and the ruins of the Temple of Demeter .

Where to Stay: Most visitors tend to stay in either Naxos , the main town, or along one of the west coast beaches, such as Agios Prokopios , Plaka , or Agia Anna. Iria Beach Art Hotel is a lovely, intimate option right on Agia Anna beach.

Pricing for Iria Beach Art Hotel

Beach at Ios Palace Hotel, Milopotas

Beach at Ios Palace Hotel, Milopotas/Oyster

Ios, to the south of Paros and Naxos and just to the north of Santorini, has a renowned nightlife scene and is home to the famous Mylopotas Beach.

How to Get There: Santorini may be known for its sweeping views, but its beaches aren’t particularly impressive. Ios is a popular stopover for travelers to Santorini hoping to tack on a bit of beach time, and the ferry ride between the islands takes anywhere from 35 minutes to an hour and 30 minutes, depending on the ferry. Note that sailings aren’t as frequent as they are between other islands. Round-trip prices are around $20 to $80. There are also ferry routes from the Port of Piraeus in Athens, as well as Mykonos, Paros, and Naxos. There is no airport on Ios.

What to Do: Chora is a charming traditional village by day and a nightlife hot spot come evening. Travelers also explore the island’s various beaches, and visit the Archaeological Museum, Homer’s (alleged) tomb, or the ruins of an old Byzantine castle, Paleokastro. Cultural events are often held at the open-air Odysseas Elytis Amphitheater.

Where to Stay: Most hotels are located in near the main village of Chora , or along nearby Mylopotas Beach. Ios Palace Hotel is one of the island’s best upscale options, and has stunning views over Mylopotas Bay.

Pricing for Ios Palace Hotel

Cretan Islands

Pool at Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, near Elounda

Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, near Elounda/Oyster

Crete is the largest and one of the most budget-friendly Greek islands. Hotel prices tend to be cheaper here than somewhere like Mykonos or Santorini, and food is cheaper, too, as Crete produces more of its own than some of the smaller islands, where most things have to be shipped in. It has a diverse range of experiences to offer, from bustling seaside towns to sandy beaches to fascinating Bronze Age history.

How to Get There: The easiest and fastest way to get to Crete is to fly from Athens; it’s a 50-minute flight to either Heraklion (prices are around $100 to $150 round-trip) or Chania (prices are about $60 to $100 round-trip). Crete is to the south of the Cyclades and it’s a long ferry ride, though there are overnight options from Athens available, usually departing at 9 or 10 p.m. and arriving around 6 a.m. Round-trip prices are around $80.

What to Do:  Knossos is one of Crete’s many interesting cultural attractions. Spinalonga — an island off of the town of Plaka — is home to a historical fortress and leper colony; boats depart from Plaka, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaus. Samaria Gorge National Park offers stunning scenery and adventurous hiking; it’s an especially popular day trip for those staying near Chania or Rethymnon.

Where to Stay: Crete’s size means there are no shortage of options on where to stay. Heraklion , the capital, is home to the ferry port, an airport, and Knossos, Crete’s most famous archaeological site (home to the Bronze Age Minoan palace ruins often associated with the labyrinth and Minotaur of legend). There are high concentrations of seaside tourist resorts around Agios Nikolaus , Elounda , Malia , and especially Hersonissos . The first two have more higher-end resort options, while Malia is known for its party scene, and Hersonissos is the busiest and most developed area.  Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is an elegant seaside option a five-minute walk outside of Plaka.

Pricing for Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Crete

Dodecanese Islands

Pool at Lindos Blu, outside of Lindos

Lindos Blu, outside of Lindos/Oyster

For those seeking sunshine in the Mediterranean beyond July and August, Rhodes delivers, with 300 days of sunshine a year. Rhodes is an extremely developed tourist destination, but there’s still charm and natural beauty to be found. There are beautiful beaches (some sandy, some pebbly), and a number of impressive historic and archaeological sights.

How to Get There: There are daily one-hour flights from Athens ranging from around $70 to $100 in summer months. There are also non-stop four-hour flights available directly from Heathrow Airport in London ranging from $100 to $300 round-trip. There are a variety of ferry options, including a one-hour ferry to Marmaris in Turkey for around $80 round-trip.

What to Do : Some of the most popular attractions include the Old City in Rhodes Town (home to the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes); the acropolis ruins in Lindos; and of course, the island’s various beaches.

Where to Stay: The best places to stay are arguably Rhodes Town , for its impressive Old Town inside the medieval citadel; Faliraki , for its long, busy, sandy beach and water park; and Lindos , for its charming pedestrian hillside village and sandy beaches. The sandy beaches on Rhodes tend to get very crowded. A cute boutique pick in Rhodes Town is Spirit of the Knights Boutique Hotel , with six medieval-themed rooms, and Lindos Blu is a lovely adult-only luxury option outside of Lindos.

Michelangelo Resort and Spa, Psalidi

Michelangelo Resort and Spa, Psalidi/Oyster

Kos follows Rhodes in both size and popularity among the Dodecanese Islands. It also offers ample sunshine and resort development.

How to Get There: There are daily flights to Kos from Athens, and it’s also possibly to fly directly from Frankfurt. Flights from Athens take 50 minutes and cost around $110 to $150 round-trip. There are ferries to Kos from Athens, Rhodes, Patmos, and Santorini available, as well as from nearby Bodrum, Turkey — among other options.

What to Do: Kos’ most famous attraction is the Asklepion, an ancient center of healing and temple complex located  outside of Kos Town.

Where to Stay: The most popular destinations on Kos include Kos Town (home to the Castle of the Knights of Saint john, plus lots of restaurants, shops, and bars); Kardamena (a small town with vibrant nightlife, plus a good smattering of nearby beach resorts); Kefalos (home to some of the island’s best beaches); and Marmari (featuring a popular, long, sandy beach on the north coast).  Michelangelo Resort and Spa is a stunning upscale option on the beach within a 15-minute drive of Kos Town.

Pricing for Michelangelo Resort and Spa

Ionian Islands

Akrotiri Beach Hotel, Corfu, Greece/Oyster

Akrotiri Beach Hotel, Corfu, Greece/Oyster

Corfu is the northernmost island on this list, located off the northwestern coast of Greece near the border with Albania, and just across the Ionian Sea from Italy. It has been conquered by multiple foreign powers over the centuries, contributing to its unique multicultural heritage today. Though there’s plenty of resort development, Corfu is a bit quieter and more relaxed than other Greek Islands, and also has a more forested landscape.

How to Get There: It’s an hour-long flight from Athens to Corfu, and prices are around $100 to $200 round-trip. There’s also ferries between Corfu and several destinations in Italy, a rather special feature for travelers hoping to visit both countries. The closest stop in Italy is Otranto, a ferry ride of two hours and 30 minutes (around $230 round-trip).

What to Do: Visiting Corfu Old Town , with its pedestrian-only narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, plus its historic fortress, is a must. The villages of Kassiopi and Paleokastritsa also get high marks; the local monastery in Paleokastritsa is worth a visit.

Where to Stay: Resorts can be found along Corfu’s entire coastline, but especially to the north and south of Corfu Town . Akrotiri Beach Hotel is an excellent mid-range option in Paleokastritsa with sweeping sea views, with direct access to a pebbly beach and a location a 20-minute drive north of Corfu Town.

Pricing for Akrotiri Beach Hotel

Our Favorite Must-Bring Item for Greece: Ancient Greek Sandals

Ancient Greek Sandals Niki Sandal

Ancient Greek Sandals Niki Sandal

Keep on theme with the white cube buildings by snagging yourself the Niki Sandal from the ever-so-fitting brand Ancient Greek Sandals . Handcrafted in Greece using traditional techniques, these sandals are the real deal for your Greek islands vacation.

You’ll Also Like:

  • 6 of Our Favorite Greek Islands for a Summer Getaway
  • Most Stunning Hotels in the Greek Cyclade Islands
  • The Top Destinations For Island Hopping

Update 7/5: This article was amended to clarify the size of Naxos.

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Best Greek Islands Near Mykonos

Updated On: October 14, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

You can use Mykonos as your base to visit some other amazing greek islands (including Santorini). This is all you need to know about the other awesome greek islands you can visit from Mykonos with a few hours trip by ferry or a quick flight.

greek islands near mykonos

With more than  10 direct flights per day  (especially between April and November) from all over Europe, Mykonos can give you the ultimate opportunity to visit some less touristy but probably equally beautiful Greek islands.

BEST HOTELS ON ISLANDS NEAR MYKONOS:

  • Santorini: San Antonio
  • Naxos: Nissaki
  • Syros: Wind Tales
  • Paros: PAROCKS
  • Ios: Hide Out
  • Milos: Noma
  • Tinos: Infinity View

Get my secrets for Greece and Mykonos in your email !

These are the  best islands near Mykonos :

  • Santorini (on Google Maps )
  • Naxos (on Google Maps )
  • Syros (on Google Maps )
  • Tinos (on Google Maps )
  • Ios (on Google Maps )
  • Dilos (on Google Maps )
  • Milos (on Google Maps )
  • Paros (on Google Maps )

The great thing about Mykonos is that you can actually visit other Cyclades islands around it, as it is pretty much in the center of this greek islands group.

READ ALSO:  Where to Stay in Mykonos Best Things to Do in Mykonos Best Greek Islands near Santorini Best Greek Islands Near Athens Where to Stay in Paros

I highly recommend you stay at least 1 night to all of these islands (apart from Dilos obviously which is not inhabited) because a day trip will always be tiring with all the ferries trips you may have to do. 

Greek island hopping  is possible but you have to consider the costs and the times as the ferry schedules will basically dictate your plans. 

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

Unfortunately, it is nearly  impossible  to visit the islands on the western side of Greece like  Corfu, Zante (Zakynthos) or Kefalonia  (these are located at the Ionian sea between Italy and Greece) as there are no direct connection flights or ferries and you always have to go through Athens (and possibly take a bus to some other ports on the west side of Greece etc).

Also, I DO NOT recommend visiting Crete or Rhodes from Mykonos.

It is 100% doable, but Crete and Rhodes are very big islands and you need to dedicate at least a week to each one of those. 

A daytrip or 2-3 nights is not worth it, because you would spend too much money and you won’t even see 5% of these amazing big greek islands.

Timetables for ferries are not fixed every year , so times and schedules might change.  Ferryhopper website provides you with an updated time schedule.

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper   is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

So, the  best islands near Mykonos  are:

1. Santorini

You have probably already heard a lot about Santorini and if you are thinking of visiting Mykonos then chances are, you are thinking of visiting Santorini too. 

Santorini  (along with Mykonos) is probably the most famous Greek island, for many reasons. 

Read Also:  How To Get From Athens to Santorini  

Incredible views, mesmerising sunsets (and sunrises) ,  5 star hotels ,  beautiful volcanic beaches ,   artisanal local wineries  and one of the most romantic places on earth. 

There is literally a million things that can make you believe Santorini is one of the most beautiful places you have ever seen but make no mistake: Santorini is a very touristic place and if you are visiting Mykonos in July or August (which I don’t recommend anyways…) then chances are Santorini will feel extremely overcrowded, very touristic and super expensive as well.

Yes, there are still places in Santorini that are not spoiled by overtourism but they probably don’t worth your visit.

So, if you are visiting in July or August I would suggest that you skip the visit to Santorini and try another greek island.

But any other month, you can certainly visit Santorini and have a great time!

Bear in mind though that Santorini is a very diverse place compared to Mykonos as there are lots of different  things to do .

My advice in general is to spend at least 5 days in Santorini (and definitely more days than you will spend in Mykonos…)

How To Get From Mykonos to Santorini

The best way to get from Mykonos to Santorini is by a 2-2.5 hrs ferry. 

You can check all the timetables and prices for ferries on  Ferryhopper Website.

There is also a  direct flight (more expensive) from Mykonos to Santorini.  The flight is about 20 mins but it’s not available every year so please check well in advance.

i do not recommend taking the flight from Mykonos to Santorini as you will spend too much time on the airports and by that time you would already be in Mykonos with the ferry

Read Also the Detailed Guide:  How To Get From Santorini to Mykonos

Best Hotels in Santorini

Santorini  has no lack of impressive hotels with incredible caldera views and excellent service.

Read Also:  Best Hotels of Santorini

Be careful, though, because most of the hotels are NOT open in November-April, so always check first. 

Here is my list of the best places to stay in  Santorini  (spoiler alert: w-o-w ! ):

Grace Hotel

Grace is the best hotel in Santorini and it has one of the most impressive swimming pools in the world along with 5 star service at Imerovigli.

CHECK PRICES

Katikies Hotel

This is the best hotel in Oia with the most amazing views to the famous sunsets and unparalleled service.

Andronis Suites

Andronis has the best spa on the island with beautifully designed private suites and an amazing restaurant in Oia.

MY TIP FOR SANTORINI:  If you cannot find a room in one of the most famous hotels of the island try to avoid the famous views and head over to the beachfront areas where things are more normal (Perissa, Perivolos, Kamari). Prices are definitely lower and you won’t be missing much as you can always visit the famous cliff volcano view areas at any time. Read Also: Where To Stay In Santorini

Naxos  is one of the largest greek islands and definitely the largest in Cyclades island complex.

It’s my personal favourite and it is very easy to reach from Mykonos!

Apart from Naxos’ cute capital town (where the ferries stop) there is another cute small village up in the mainland of Naxos called “Apeiranthos” (here it is on  Google Maps )

Naxos has  amazing long sandy beaches  (like Agia Anna beach) and it’s an amazing destination for foodies and for families with kids.

Seriously….don’t leave the island if you don’t try the amazing Naxos gruyere yellow cheese called Graviera Naxou. 

Naxos offers fantastic opportunities for watersports as well:  waterskiing, kitesurfing, windsurfing as its beaches are are ideal with the strong winds of greek islands:

Naxos is very well organised with B&B’s and hotels and I definitely suggest a 2-3 days stay on the island because there are so much to see and do.

How To Get From Mykonos To Naxos

Naxos  is about 1 hour by ferry from Mykonos (choose the Blue Star Ferry).

If you want to check all the timetables or even book your ferry ticket to Naxos (which you must pick up at the port anyways – that’s the Greek law…), you can visit the  Ferryhopper website  (or you can just check the timetables).

There is no flight between Naxos and Mykonos as it doesn’t make sense; the islands are pretty close.

  • Best Hotels in Naxos

Naxos is quite a big island with lots of options for accommodation.

As with every location outside of Santorini and Mykonos  DO NOT expect the luxury and the services  that you will find in those other 2 greek islands. 

But the following  hotels in Naxos  are very good and are highly rated everywhere online:

Belogna Ikons (Naxos)

One of the highest rated hotels of Naxos at a quiet area close to Vivlos beach but also close to the Naxos main town.

Sea & Olives Villas (Naxos)

Being inside a massive olive trees grove this hotel offers private swimming pools but it’s also in walking distance to the famous Plakas beach.

Naxian Utopia Luxury Villas (Naxos)

Stunning villas with cycladic architecture and private swimming pools and amazing views to the Aegean sea. Very close to the famous Agios Prokopios beach too!

Ampelos Resort (Naxos)

Beautifully decorated rooms, very close the famous Plaka beach. This is where you will find the friendliest guest of the island!

Nissaki Beach Hotel (Naxos)

Celebrity-like treatment and 5 star luxury in (possibly) the best hotel of Naxos. Amazing greek breakfast too!

MY TIP FOR NAXOS:  If in case you are island-hopping then you need to stay more than 1 night in Naxos because the island is pretty big (one of the biggest islands in Greece actually) and you definitely need to  rent a  car   or  a scooter to move around as the distances are not short. Also, make sure you visit the amazing mountain village of  Apeiranthos  and DO NOT LEAVE  THE ISLAND if you don’t eat at one of the best restaurants in Greece:  Axiotissa   (here it is on  Google Maps )

Syros  is another greek Island in the Cyclades, in the Aegean Sea.  The largest towns are  Ermoupoli ,   Ano Syros  and  Vari.

Ermoupoli  is the capital of the island and it has always been a significant port town and during the 19th century it was even more significant than Piraeus port in Athens.

You should definitely visit the  Syros   Town Hall , which is a very beautiful building especially on the inside with beautiful tiles, marble and decoration. Nearby you will also find cafes, shops, restaurants etc.

In Syros, you can find lots of sandy beaches, cocktails bars, night clubs and tavernas with fresh fish!

Syros is great for families and it is one of the most relaxing greek islands even in August (no tourist crowds there…)

How To Get From Mykonos to Syros

Syros is very close to Mykonos and you won’t need more than 1.15 hours. 

If you decide to go to Syros, I would suggest you stay at least 2 days and spend 1 day for Ermoupoli and Ano Syros (amazing views and picturesque alleys) and the second day on the beach.

It is about 1.15 hours away from Mykonos by the slow   ferry   and 45 minutes away with the  fast ferry   (just 1.5 euro more expensive).

Travel agencies at Mykonos Town  will be able to book your tickets and tell you the timetables of the available ferries at the time you are there, but my proposal is always to check and book online through  Ferryhopper.

It’s very simple:  you pop in at a travel agent in Mykonos Town (there are hundreds you won’t miss them), you ask the timetables for the ferries to Syros and that’s it. Alternatively, you book everything online at the  Ferryhopper website.

  • Best Hotels in Syros

There are some excellent recent additions to Syros’ Hotels scene lately that make it an extremely attractive destination.  Here are the best of them:

Wind Tales (Syros)

Located at the medieval town of Ano Syra it offers some beautiful terraces and balconies with stunning sea views to the beautiful town of ano Syra and the aegean sea.

Esperance 1 (Syros)

This is the most elegant and stylish hotel of Ermoupoli capital town with excellent breakfast and top service.

Apollonos Seafront Apartments (Syros)

This is an amazing villa located literally on the seafront in Ermoupoli with incredible sea views and excellent spaces for more than 6 people.

MY TIP FOR SYROS:  You must visit  Agathopes beach , which is about 20 mins drive from Ermoupoli. There are umbrellas and sunbeds you can rent (much cheaper than Mykonos…) and crystal blue-green water! This place is very popular and it gets quite busy in the early afternoon so make sure that you will arrive in the morning and you will enjoy the sandy beach.

Tinos  island is a very interesting place to visit due to its picturesque villages, its beautiful beaches and the amazing food!

Tinos  is famous amongst Greeks for the  Church of Panagia Evagelistria  (the blessed Virgin Mary). From all over the country, people come here to fulfil their vows and to seek comfort. Tinos is the most important Orthodox centre of worship in Greece but, in the same time, an important Catholic centre too.

You should visit some of the scenic villages of Tinos (Pyrgos, Volax, Arnados, Kalloni and Ysternia) .

Tinos has some very beautiful beaches that you should definitely visit such as  Kolympithra, Agios Fokas, Kionia, and Agios Sostis.

I do recommend staying for 2 days and spend your time to visit the Church of Panagia Evagelistria, the Arnados village which is the oldest village in Tinos with the most beautiful alleys, terraces with flowers and old traditional cafes.

How To Get From Mykonos to Tinos

Tinos is about 30 minutes by ferry from Mykonos (there are many ferries throughout the day).

Just visit any travel agency at Mykonos Town, anytime you are in Mykonos and they will be able to give you the latest timetable (it changes every few months)

Alternatively you can also check the times and book at   Ferryhopper website .

Best Hotels in Tinos

Tinos sky view villa (tinos).

A beautiful villa with private swimming pool that can sleep up to 6 people.

Big Blue (Tinos)

A simple but elegant hotel that offers beautiful panoramic views to the sea and yummy greek breakfasts.

Aeolis Tinos Suit es (Tinos)

Possibly the best hotel in Tinos island with a beautiful swimming pool and excellent service.

MY TIP FOR TINOS:  Though the famous Mary church in Tinos is one of the highlights of the island, I do not recommend visiting the island on the 15th of August because this is when people from all over Greece go to Tinos to celebrate holy Mary. Avoid the week of 15th of August in general and you should be ok for Tinos. 

Ios  is a really unique and underrated island in my opinion but it is very well worth your visit while you are in Mykonos (or Santorini).

Back in the 90’s and 00’s it used to be a crazy party island and for some inexplicable reason it got bad reputation but I really never understood why.

It’s an island with amazing beauty and its golden sandy beaches are some of the best in Greece. Seriously…

Though I have to say that the island is mainly more appealing to younger ages (up to 30 years old probably), this shouldn’t stop you to visit Ios and explore it’s amazing beauty.

Ios is very well organised, with B&B’s and Hotels and I’d definitely suggest a 2-3 days stay on the island in case you decide to visit it.

How To Get From Mykonos To Ios

Ios  is about 1.5 hrs away by ferry from Mykonos ( check ferry timetables and prices on Ferryhopper website )

The journey is really quick and it costs about 30-35 euros (one way). I know…expensive…

Best Hotels in Ios

Ios  has some really good hotels. While not to the level of luxury and services that you would find in Santorini or Mykonos, the hotels of Ios are definitely very impressive.

These are the  Top Hotels in Ios :

Ios Palace (Ios)

Beautiful setup with a massive swimming pool next to the famous Mylopotas beach in Ios. Great services and a Margarita Bar that serves the longest list of margaritas in Europe!

Liostasi Hotel & Suites (Ios)

Designed to overlook the town of Ios, Liostasi offers world class services and amenities with the biggest swimming pool of the island.

Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel (Ios)

A trully unique boutique hotel, 10 mins walking distance from the famous sandy Mylopotas beach. Some of the rooms offer their own private swimming pool overlooking the beach!

Island House Hotel (Ios)

This is a value for money option for Mylopotas beach as you get a lot for what you pay for! A massive swimming pool and cleand and decent rooms.

MY TIP FOR IOS:  Though definitely not the party island of the 90’s and 00’s, Ios still has some of the best beach bars/clubs of Greece (along with Mykonos obviously…). The best one is by far the famous  Far Out Beach Club  at Mylopotas in Ios that also has the great  Far Out Camping Ios .   Also, bear in mind that Ios would feel like Italy in August as it is one of the most popoular destination for Italians!  

Delos (or Dilos) is an island that is not inhabited by any people but a cruise to Delos is definitely one of the best things to do in Mykonos .

It used to be one of the most famous and important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece.

There are no houses or hotels on the island: just lots of ancient greek ruins, some guards, a museum and…lots of lovely cats!!

I highly recommend you take some organised tours to Delos island so that you understand what you are looking as it is not always obvious…

How To Get From Mykonos To Dilos

Though you can certainly find the boats that can take you to Delos at the old port of Mykonos, I highly recommend you take an organised tour like the following 2 which are very well rated:

  • Original Morning Delos Guided Tour
  • Original Evening Delos Guided Tour

So, these are best islands near Mykonos: Santorini , Naxos, Tinos, Ios ,  Syros and the unique Dilos . If you have time for only one island then let it be  Santorini  as it’s really worth it unless it’s July or August when it will be super crowded. If you want a more relaxing and quiet 1-2 days trip (especially if you are with family and kids) then you should visit Naxos or Ios. The only island I suggest doing a daytrip from Mykonos is obviously Dilos. For all the rest of the islands I highly recommend staying at least 1 night to enjoy your visit more.

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Mykonos Town:  Cavo Tagoo Ornos:  My Mykonos Retreat Paraga:  Soho Roc House Psarou:  Mykonos Blu Agios Stefanos:  Mykonos Princess Platis Yialos:  Nissaki Boutique Elia:  Royal Myconian

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Mykonos Town:  Villa Evi

Panormos:  Panormos Villas

Super Paradise:  Otherview Villa

Ornos:  Dilles Villas

Platis Yalos:  Elegance Vill a

Elia Beach:  Villa Etcetera

BEST THINGS TO DO IN MYKONOS:

🌄 Yacht Cruise to Delos & Rhenia islands

🍷 Mykonos Cooking Class

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greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

Booking.com  i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

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

Boats on the water at Asos, Greece

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.

Aerial view of Corfu in Greece

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.

Paleokastritsa, Greece

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

People walking near the sea in 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.

White houses in Fira, Greece

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.

A lighthouse in Heraklion, Greece

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.

Elafonissi beach

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.

White concrete houses near a body of water in Paros, Greece

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 .

Blue houses in Prodromos, Paros, Greece

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.

The coast along Naxos, Greece

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 .

Aerial view of Agios Georgios Beach

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.

White houses along the coast of Mykonos, Greece

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 .

View from underwater in Ftelia, Greece

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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April 23, 2019

The greek islands: how to choose which ones to visit.

One of the best greek islands to visit - Milos via @finduslost

Over the past few years we’ve traveled to a number of the islands. The white-washed facades and sunsets of Santorini and beaches reminiscent of the moon’s surface in Milos are two standouts. The best part about the Greek Islands is that there really is something for everyone — whether you’re after incredible Greek food, turquoise blue water and sandy beaches, picturesque towns, family-friendly activities or nightlife, or a combination of all of the above. Read on for my tips on how to choose the best Greek Island to visit and a breakdown of each one!

PRESET COLLECTION USED IN THIS BLOG POST: GREEK ISLANDS COLLECTION

Quick Tips for Visiting the Greek Islands — May and September is shoulder season – less crowds, cheaper hotels. We prefer September because the water is warmest and the winds have died down. Flights and ferries are best to get to the islands – book everything in advance, but know that weather can also delay and cancel transport. Car, motorbike and ATV is the preferred mode of transport – you’ll have the freedom to explore more with an ATV or motorbike rental. Book in advance. — Resources Search Ferries in Greece   |  Search Flights in Greece

One of the best greek islands to visit - Santorini via @finduslost

Left: Our Airbnb in Oia, Santorini (listing here ); Right: postcard perfect views near the Byzantine Castle Ruins. This photo is available as a print here .

The most quintessential, romantic Greek Island of Santorini is known for picturesque views of white-washed facades and blue domes; perfect for those who want good food, unique hotels, cobblestone streets, shopping, and plenty to explore.

Best for: romance, trendy hotels, picture-perfect views.

Not good for: beaches and crowds. Santorini may have crystal-clear water, but most of the beaches on the island are rocky or overcrowded. Consider Milos if you’re after amazing Greek beaches.

Where I’ve stayed: My stay in a Greek cave house in Santorini is still one of my favorite experiences to date. Oia is the most popular part of the island, for good reason. If you have a picture in mind of Santorini, it’s likely of the white cave houses and blue domes in Oia, perched on cliffs over the ocean.

If you’re able to splurge on one stay, make it a hotel or Airbnb on Santorini. The accommodations are incredible here. In the right spot, you won’t want to trade the views from your balcony for the crowds outside your door.

Read: The Complete Santorini Travel Guide   |    View Santorini Hotels and Homes

Houses in Santorini

Olea Cave House – $$ – hilltop views in Imerovigli, with a rooftop terrace that overlooks the blue waters of the Caldera. The Nook Agate – $$$ – clean and modern Greek architecture with sunset views of Oia in Imerovigli. Artia Mansion – $$$ – a beautiful cave house centrally located in Oia with a terrace. Oia Spirit – $$$ – beautiful, white-washed Greek residences with arguably the best view (and location) in all of Oia. Kastro Oia Houses – $$$$ – picture perfect suites in one of the most desirable spots on the island, with a terrace and hot tub.

Hotels in Santorini

Finikia Memories Hotel – $$ – family-run, traditional white-washed style with spacious rooms just outside of Oia. ( Similar in price: Hotel Sunshine , farther from Oia but beachfront) Caldera Villas – $$$ – the terrace at the Caldera Villas has stunning ocean views, and they often run deals on their rooms and suites. ( Charisma Suites ) Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel – $$$$ – built on the side of a cliff overlooking the Caldera, with Cycladic-style architectural elements just outside the town of Fira. ( Kapari Resort and San Antonio in Imervogli, Pezoules and Andronis Suites highest rated in Oia)

How To Choose The Best Greek Islands To Visit - Mykonos via @finduslost

Left: winding alleyways downtown Mykonos; Right: sunset on the south side of the island.

Often referred to as the party island, Mykonos has an upbeat vibe and attracts crowds throughout the summer with dance clubs and beach music. The picturesque downtown of Mykonos and the windmills are some of the most famous attractions on the island.

Best for: nightlife, sandy beaches, luxury hotels.

Not good for: restaurants. We’ve found the food on Mykonos to be catered to tourists and lacking in diversity. For an island with great cuisine and seaside dining, consider Paros.

Where I’ve stayed: Boheme Hotel . It’s a beautiful property close to Mykonos downtown. Breakfasts are amazing, as well as the views. Definitely on the pricier side, but great if you’re traveling as a couple and want to splurge.

Read: The Complete Mykonos Travel Guide   |    View Mykonos Hotels and Homes

Houses in Mykonos

Mooi Skylight – $ – a cute and cozy loft right in the middle of town. Great location, not great for light sleepers. Biatriza’s Summer Shelter – $$ – modern apartment with spacious terrace decorated in soft greys and muted earth tones. ( Little House , right in town, is similar) Villa Mykonis Praha – $$$ – a beautiful and spacious stone property with a pool. Cloud Blue – $$$ – traditional cycladic stones with modern amenities in this 2 house property with a pool, perfect for couples and large groups. Silvernoses Little Venice – $$$$ – cozy, boho inspired home in the heart of Little Venice.

Hotels in Mykonos

Esperides – $ – spacious apartments & studios with minimal design in traditional island architecture. Island Mykonos Suites – $$ – perfect, minimalistic suites in the heart of Mykonos island. Vencia Boutique Hotel – $$$ – light-colored rooms with balconies and an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean sea. ( Similar in price: Rochari , close to the famous Mykonos windmills) Boheme Mykonos – $$$$ – boho-chic vibe, and breakfast each morning consists of over 20+ Greek inspired dishes — plus, you can order as many as you want! ( Livin Mykonos Hotel , My Mykonos Hotel )

One of the best greek islands to visit - Milos via @finduslost

Left: Sarakiniko Beach in Milos; Right: Tsigrado Beach.

Our favorite island, Milos has gained popularity in the past few years for its unique beaches, quaint towns, local food, and general laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect size with enough to explore on a week-long trip, but small enough to get around by ATV.

Best for: unique beaches, restaurants, boutique hotels, small towns.

Not good for: nightlife. Milos has some bars and and small clubs, but if you’re after the party scene you’ll want to head to Mykonos or Ios.

Where we’ve stayed: Asterias Boutique Hotel , a family-run property near the famous Sarakiniko Beach. Basic and affordable, but really all we needed since we spent all our time at the beaches!

Read: The Complete Milos Travel Guide & Moonscapes of Sarakiniko Beach in Milos   |  View Milos Hotels and Homes

Houses in Milos

Venia’s Guesthouse – $ – a comfortable apartment-style building with a sea-view patio in the quaint town of Pollonia. ( Similar in price: Seaview House Mandrakia ) Sirma Klima – $$ – the most traditional beach house stay on popular Klima beach. ( Blue Mare , Apollon by Akropolon ) Captain Zeppos – $$ – the perfect set of whitewashed suites with a pool, steps from the beach in Pollonia. Aigeis-Milos Suites – $$$ – a traditional Cycladic-style space with a brick fireplace and sea views. On the south side of Milos, but between two beautiful beaches. Manolis and Filio Home by the Sea – $$$$ – Cycladic house in a traditional fishing village right in front of the sea, where you can swim and enjoy sunsets from the balcony.

Hotels in Milos

Asterias Boutique Hotel – $ – we loved this family-run boutique hotel. It was affordable, comfortable, and in a perfect location for exploring the best beaches in Milos! Milia Gi Suites – $$ – a new boutique hotel nearby the beach and town center of Pollonia. The rooms are spacious, some with private jacuzzis. ( Similar in price: Delmar Suites ) Cave Suites Milos – $$$ – all suites provide a balcony with private pool and panoramic sea views, right next to famous Sarakiniko beach. ( Captain Zeppos ) Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa – $$$$ – one of the few luxury boutique hotels on the island – snap it up if it’s available during your trip! ( Milos Breeze , Miland Suites )

One of the best greek islands to visit - Ios via @haylsa

Left: Turquoise bays in Ios; Right: sunset near Teatro Odysseas Elytis. Images credit + blog on Ios: Haylsa

Ios features a number of beautiful beaches, amidst classic Greek towns and a nightlife scene that attracts younger crowds. It’s a great option for a trip with friends, and conveniently located between Santorini and Naxos.

Best for: bars and restaurants, beach options, accessibility.

Not good for: honeymooners. If you’re after a romantic getaway, consider the sweeping views and luxurious offerings of Santorini. Or the more relaxed vibes of Milos.

View Ios Hotels and Homes

Houses in Ios

Mazi Stin Io – $ – a small 2 bedroom hideaway with a balcony. Wabi Luxury Suites – $$ – minimalistic design suite located in the picturesque, historic neighborhood of the windmills in Ios town. ( Similar in price: Magganari Moments ) Theros Apartments – $$ – a modern apartment with private pool, overlooking the bay of Mylopota. Villa Baya – $$$ – beautiful, modern villa with views of the sea from an expansive terrace close to the Chora village. ( Athina Ios Villa also great for small groups)

Hotels in Ios

Avra Pension – $ – simple rooms with private balconies and homemade breakfast. Yialos Ios Hotel – $$ – close to shopping and dining in Chora with a warm atmosphere and functional accommodations, steps from the beach. ( Similar in price: White Loft , Hotel Katerina ) Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel – $$$ – a Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel a short walk from Mylopotas beach. ( Liostasi Hotel ) Hide Out Suites – $$$$ – set on a dramatic hillside right above Mylopotas beach with eye-catching views. ( Similar in price: On The Rocks )

One of the best greek islands to visit - Paros via @finduslost

Left: Our group house rental in Paros (listing here ); Right: a cliff jumping spot in Antiparos (more about it in this post ).

Known for having amazing food and beaches, Paros is a crowdpleaser for couples, groups, and families. Long sandy beaches coupled with plenty of restaurant options and close proximity to its neighboring island, Antiparos, allow for lots of activities and nearby villages no matter where you choose to stay.

Best for: lots of beaches, day trips, diverse accommodations, restaurants.

Not good for: your only destination. While Paros has something for everyone, it’s not the most unique of the Greek Islands. Coupling it with somewhere like Santorini will provide the best of both worlds (uniqueness and accessibility).

Where we’ve stayed: this rental house in Paros with a group of friends – one of the most fun trips! Highly recommend Paros for group trips. We also stayed at the Cleopatra Seaside Homes – a series of local apartments converted into rentals just steps from one of my favorite beaches on the island.

Read: Greek Island Hopping in Milos, Paros and Naxos   |  View Paros Hotels and Homes

Houses in Paros

Niriides Studios – $ – charming studios on the beach, nearby Paros port. Aegis Luxe – $$ – cozy home and well-designed with lovely touches right in the center of Naousa. The View – $$$ – beautifully landscaped property with an expansive outdoor space steps from a popular beach. Potami Phos – $$$$ – gorgeous home located in northeast Paros with an outdoor space great for gatherings.

Hotels in Paros

Apartments Tarsa – $ – clean and spacious apartments with a kitchen and private balcony and beautifully landscaped grounds. Argonauta – $$ – charming hotel with a lovely courtyard minutes from the port of Paros. ( Similar in price: Cleopatra Suites , private apartment-style stay steps from the beach) Blue Waves Suites – $$$ – located on the beautiful beach of Drios, each room opens up to a private balcony where you can relax and take in the tranquil atmosphere. ( White Blossom , Parian Boutique Hotel ) Yria Hotel & Spa – $$$$ – top-rated luxury boutique hotel close to Paros main town and 100m from the beach.

One of the best greek islands to visit - Naxos via @finduslost

Left: winding streets in Apiranthos; Right: views from Apollo Temple.

A short ferry ride from Paros, Naxos offers a beautiful seafront town on arrival, trendy hotels, laid-back beaches, and great opportunities to experience local culture. A drive around the island is a must, you’ll find picture-perfect mountain towns and remnants of medieval architecture and history.

Best for: landscapes, local culture, hotel options, beaches.

Not good for: diversity. We loved the authentic, easy-going feel of Naxos but it is best when combined with another Greek Island, like Milos for unique beaches or Ios for bars and restaurants.

Where we’ve stayed: Naxian Collection , one of the dreamiest hilltop properties with our own suite in front of the pool. If I went back, I would definitely stay at their sister property too, Naxian on the Beach .

Read: Greek Island Hopping in Milos, Paros and Naxos   |  View Naxos Hotels and Homes

Houses in Naxos

Perivoli – $ – quaint traditional house with a garden, a short drive from town. En Lefko Boutique House – $$ – a beautiful whitewashed home with a balcony on the outskirts of the Old Town. ( Similar in price: Smirida House ) Naxos Infinity Villa Pool Suite – $$$ – built and designed in an authentic cycladic with breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding cliffs. ( Naxian Castillo ) Beachfront Cycladic Villa – $$$$ – beautiful beachfront home situated on the west coast of Naxos, great for groups. ( Naxos Luxury Villa )

Hotels in Naxos

Anatoli Hotel – $ – budget-friendly, modern rooms with balconies near Naxos town. ( Similar in price: Petrino ) Medusa Beach Resort – $$ – traditional cycladic accommodations surrounded by lush gardens and a swimming pool overlooking Plaka beach. ( Emery Hotel , Galini Hotel ) Santana Beach Hotel – $$$ – breezy, bright hotel located on top of one of the most desirable beaches on the island. Naxian on the Beach – $$$$ – sister hotel to the Naxian Collection , with boho chic decor and a prime location right on Plaka beach.

Navagio shipwreck beach viewpoint in Zakynthos Greece

Left: Shipwreck beach in Zakynthos. Right: Nobelos Restaurant.

This lesser-known Greek Island features one of the most incredible beach views, perched thousands of feet overlooking an old shipwreck. Zakynthos has beautiful beaches, cliffside views, local cuisine, and plenty of options for fun activities all over the island.

Best for: unique beaches, boat trips, nightlife, activities.

Not good for: families. Though there are parts of the island that allow for more family-friendly options, I’d recommend checking out Paros instead.

Read: The Complete Zakynthos, Greece Travel Guide   |   View Zakynthos Hotels and Homes

Houses in Zakynthos

Fexulis Studios – $$ – simple yet beautiful studios with a kitchenette and terrace located steps from the beach in one of the most desirable spots on Zakynthos. ( Similar in price: Oceanis Suites ) Villa Verde – $$$ – a modern three-bedroom villa situated amongst olive trees, with a private pool and bbq set up. ( Orfos Villa ) Tramonto Villa – $$$ – a traditional stone house with a pool in a small town near Shipwreck Beach. Sleeps 8 people. Villa Harmonia – $$$$ – a luxurious waterfront property with a pool, complete with traditional stone walls and in the middle of Agios Nikolaos in the north. ( Vais Luxury Villas )

Hotels in Zakynthos

Ionian Hill Hotel – $$ – bright and airy studios with views of the entire coastline, a 5 minute walk from the beach. Nobelos Seaside Lodge – $$$ – seafront rooms in a boutique hotel on the north shore (known for being quieter and more local). ( Similar in price: Aliv Stone Suites , also close to Shipwreck Beach; Contessina Hotel in Tsilivi) Olea All Suite Hotel – $$$$ – a unique property set on a hill surrounded by olive trees. ( Zante Maris Suites )

Folegandros

One of the best greek islands to visit - Folegandros via Andy Jam

Left: Galifos beach in Folegandros; Right: sunset over the island. Images credit + blog on Folegandros: Andyjam

The small, charming island of Folegandros is quiet yet romantic. It’s fairly untouched — with local bakeries and tavernas, dramatic seaside views, and picture-perfect beaches that are perfect relaxing and taking in the Aeagean sun.

Best for: pristine beaches, relaxation, local culture.

Not good for: activities. Folegandros is very small and if you’re going for anything other than relaxation, you might get stir-crazy. Consider Milos or Paros if you want beautiful beaches and more things to do.

Where we’ve stayed: we ran into a bout of really bad weather late summer last year and our ferry to Folegandros was cancelled. We were planning to stay at Blue Sand Hotel in Folegandros. Fingers crossed we make it over there one day!

View Folegandros Hotels and Homes

Houses in Folegandros

Folegandros Apartments – $ – studios located in Folegandros town, with a pool. Kymanemi Folegandros – $$ – a quaint white-washed studio perched right above the beach. Villa Levanda – $$$ – a spacious home with two balconies and daily fresh bread delivery, great for groups. Villa Mikros – $$$$ – cycladic houses with white and blue interiors set in lush greenery with a view. Walking distance to local beaches and taverns.

Hotels in Folegandros

Pasithea Folegandros – $ – guest rooms have a sun terrace and gorgeous views of the sea and a short walk to the beach. Blue Sand Boutique Hotel – $$ – built on a hillside next to Agali beach, each room has picturesque views of the Aegean Sea. ( Similar in price: Aegeo Hotel , Vrahos Boutique Hotel beachfront) Makarios Villa – $$$ – actually a beautiful villa designed by local hotel owners; featuring a terrace, outdoor dining area, pool and sea views. ( Onar Suites , top rated in Folegandros) Anemi Hotel – $$$$ – modern design, white tones with colorful details and an expansive pool close to Karavostasis Port.

→ Other lesser-known Greek Islands worth checking out: Patmos, Kefalonia, Kímolos, Paxoi.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, I highly recommend visiting more than one island. Combine a popular island like Santorini or Mykonos with a more unique one like Milos or Paros if it’s your first time. Don’t forget to venture out and get lost, no matter where you end up! That’s half the fun…

How To Choose The Best Greek Islands FindUsLost

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87 Comments

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Krista Grayson Says

Hello Selena- So happy I found your blog! Your content is quite awesome! Thorough with lovely photos. My family is heading to Greece for the first time this summer. We will be there in early- mid July. We have two teens, 14 and 16 and will be landing in Santorini from Italy and staying there for 2 nights and then heading to another island for 6 nights. We are really struggling between Milos and Paros. I see that Milos is your favorite due to the unique beaches, however you also speak very highly of Paros and the ability to skip over to Anitparos. We would are active, but are also looking to enjoy some relaxing beach time. We plan to take some boat excursions and my husband and son like to kiteboard. Given this, I would love to get your thoughts on which of the two islands you would nudge us toward. Many thanks!

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Selena Says

Both are great options so you can’t go wrong! I would lean more towards Paros because there is a bit more to explore in terms of towns, and the ability to hop over to Antiparos is a fun adventure. It is known as being a family friendly island (and it will likely be less crowded than Milos, which has gotten very popular in recent years). We loved our time in Paros and felt like there were tons of beaches and delicious restaurants to enjoy. I can’t speak for kiteboarding personally but I think it will check your other boxes!

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Toni Perez Says

My husband and I are traveling to Athens to visit my daughter who is doing a semester abroad. We will arrive on April 27 and depart May 5th. We would like to visit some greek islands while there. What would you suggest? Any islands to spend a couple of days at or day trip islands from Athens?

How wonderful! I would recommend checking out Folegandros – we absolutely loved our time there and it is still relatively unknown. Check out Blue Sand hotel. The island is small but charming and beautiful.

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Darnesha Says

Hi Selena I will be traveling to Greece from September 17th to October 5th total of (18 days)with my husband .

I have decided upon arrival to immediately taking a flight to Crete where we would like to stay for at least 5 days in Chania.

My husband I have made it for clear Crete is a must. My advise .. I am having a hard time narrowing down islands it’s soooo hard lol. But I reached a top list of islands

Ios Naxos Paros Milo’s Back to Athens

I need help on deciding on which to pick from and the order to visit. I would truly like to visit all but if I can’t here is a little about my husband and myself . We are not partying people, we love good food, nice scenery, nice lounge bars, beautiful beaches , and site seeing( the wow moments). Please any advise or suggestions we are open.

Thank you 😊

I would personally not miss Milos! Ios is known more for nightlife so I would try to narrow down to max 3 islands, perhaps starting with Milos and then hitting Naxos and Paros after. Naxos and Paros are a short ferry from one another (30 minutes) so very easy to go from one to another. I hope that helps!

My apologies with the name

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Sally Clarke Fox Says

Hi! So happy I stumbled upon you. I’m traveling to Greece in September or October as a 55th birthday present to myself. If I go for a week, would I have enough time to see islands and visit Athens? Or should I just focus on one or the other? Also, what islands would you recommend for me? I’m young at heart, and I like a lively, social scene at night but a relaxing daytime vibe.

I would focus on visiting one island and perhaps spending 1-2 days in Athens on your stopover!

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Morgan Says

I am in the process of planning our honeymoon to Greece this upcoming October. I understand it’s “Shoulder season” so I want to get your take on things. We will be going for 10-12 days and we want to stay busy while still “relaxing” some days.

We for sure want to do Santorini for maybe 3 days. I have two friends who recently went to Greece – one did Santorini and Milos, one did Santorini and Paros – and I can’t decide which to do!

We are a social couple and want to do some exploring, and enjoy some cocktails and good food at night and meet new people. We aren’t interested in “clubs” but more so good music, food, and talkative/interactive environments or bars. With this being said, would you recommend doing Santorini, Milos and Paros? Or choosing between Milos and Paros – and doing Santorini, (either Milos or Paros), and Mykonos?

We have never had a big trip like this before so any information / your expertise is greatly appreciated! Thank you for your knowledge and time!

If you are going for 12 days I’d say you could fit three islands in (i.e. Santorini, Milos and Paros). If you are going for 10 I’d try and stick to two islands. It’s nice to be able to spend at least 4 days on an island so you aren’t moving around too much.

Personally I loved both Milos and Paros, Milos a bit more because I found the beaches to be more unique. The downside is that Milos has gotten more popular (and therefore more crowded) in recent years.

If you are looking to be social than Mykonos might be a fit for you. I personally enjoyed the low key feel more of Paros and Milos, as Mykonos is more of a party destination.

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daniela perez Says

Hi! Me and my boyfriend are going to Greece in Late august and we are choosing between a couple options. We are going to Santorini first (for sure). But we want to choose 2 islands between these 3: Milos, Mykonos, and Paros. What would you recommend? (and order as well) We have not been to Greece yet!

I personally love Milos and Paros so that would be my recommendation! Santorini and Mykonos both tend to be more crowded, busier islands.

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Best island to visit mid October for honeymooners? (in terms of warmth/good weather for swimming …we are deff doing Santorini, we want another island besides that)

All the islands near Santorini will be similar in terms of climate in October. Milos / Naxos are both great to explore and would be special to visit this time of year (less crowds).

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Editha I Arceo Says

Hi Selena. Enjoyed browsing through your site. In 2018 my family went to Greece – we stayed several nights in Athens and then explored Santorini and Mykonos. In September we are going back as my eldest son is getting married in Athens. After the wedding we would like to relax and spend several days in the islands. we are thinking of Crete. How many days do you suggest? But Paros seems to be nice too.

I haven’t been to Crete but it is much larger than Santorini and Mykonos! You could easily spend a week there and only scratch the surface.

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Hi Selena! Wow – your site is amazing and photos. It’s so inspiring! I’ve booked my trip to Greece, I have 11 days with my wife. We are flying into Athens and have 11 nights in total. I was thinking one night in Athens to see the ruins then onto the Greek islands..

I’m a bit confused about which islands to go and see. My wife is pregnant so we are more looking to relax on some beautiful beaches, do some walks but not really partying. Santorini is a definite and I was thinking Milos from your recommendation. Should we see any other islands? I’m keen to sample some great seafood and restaurants.. We also want to make sure we have time to relax and not being moving from island to island too much.

Any advice would be appreciated! Cheers, Kate

11 days is amazing! I think your itinerary sounds perfect. We spent 6 nights on Milos and honestly could’ve spent more, but it felt like a great amount of time for the island’s size. I think if you tried to move around to another island in addition to Santorini + Milos, you’d just be sad you were leaving. 😉

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Jessica Says

Hi! First off, thank you so much for all your amazing Greece content…I am planning my first Greece trip, and so excited (both to visit somewhere I’ve been obsessed with for forever, and to be able to share content on my travel blog later). Your Greek island posts have been super helpful…I know how much time and effort goes into creating these posts, and really appreciate all your work! I’m doing a few days in Santorini (I think 3 nights but really 2 1/2 days) and then have been debating between Naxos and Paros as a base for the remaining 4 nights/5 days. I think I’m leaning toward Naxos but super bummed I can’t somehow fit a day trip in to Milos as it looks amazing and your photos in particular have burrowed their way into my brain. Would a 1 day/night trip to Milos specifically to do the sailing trip make sense? I have a tendency to move fast when I travel but don’t want to overextend/plan myself either as I know moving around the islands isn’t always simple.

Also, a total side note question but I’d love to know who you fulfill your photo prints (printing/framing/shipping) through? They’re beautiful and I couldn’t figure out who was doing the back-end there.

Thank you again for all your content!

Thanks Jessica for the kinds words! Hmm.. personally I’m not sure I would do 1 night on any Greek Island, as it would be so hard to leave the next day! With the exception of Paros / 1 night in Antiparos, as the ferry over is less than half an hour and leaves frequently. If you’re after some unique beaches that combo might be an option for you (know that you said you were leaning towards Naxos so don’t want to throw a wrench in that plan, but it depends on what your priorities are!).

I work with a local printer in NYC who I found while living there, so it’s not fulfilled by a large printing company. Was a bit particular about quality and color and after vetting quite a few options I was happiest with his work. : )

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Kelsey Says

Hi! Your site is amazing – beautiful photos and helpful information! I am planning my honeymoon for the end of September this year, and having such a hard time deciding between cyclades and ionian islands. Is there an easy way to do Milos and Zakynthos where it’s not 11+ hours of travel time? Which grouping of islands would you recommend for 2 weeks and newbies to Greece? Thank you in advance. Kelsey

Hi Kelsey! Congrats on your wedding. Greece is just the most perfect place for a honeymoon. I would personally recommend the Cyclades islands if you are new to traveling here. You’ll find a great variety of islands, and it’s convenient to travel from Milos to Paros, or Milos to Naxos, even Milos to Santorini. I personally loved the laid-back feel of Paros and the option to also day trip to Antiparos to explore as well (a 15 minute ferry from Paros!).

I enjoyed Zakynthos a lot but it’s not as ‘local’ as the other islands and I think you’ll be happier with the charm you’ll find in the Cyclades. I hope that helps!

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Your airbnb in Oia looks fantastic but the link doesn’t seem to be working – would you mind sharing it?

Hi Niall, try this: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/9222197

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Thank you for a great post about the Greek islands. Could you tell me where we could go cliff jumping? It’s on the bucket list. Thank you!

Your best bet is probably somewhere around Kleftiko, if you take a boat out for the afternoon or for the day there are spots around here to climb up and jump in the water. Enjoy!

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Dr, Tassos Koussis Says

It was so great reading about your experiences. I was born and raised in the mainland of Greece and have been to Milos 5 times and are taking my 3 children and their four sons for 6 days this September Every time we go back, we discover something new and certainly your input will add to the pleasant experiences this September.

Thank you for your description of your journeys through Greece. Perhaps, one of these days you may want to explore some parts of northern Greece. They have their own unique flavor.

Thank you again for all your invaluable and unbiased stories. Have fun exploring our world. There is nothing better than traveling and experiencing various cultures.

Thanks for taking the time to leave this comment! Milos is wonderful, have a great time returning with the family. I have been to Meteora in Northern Greece and absolutely loved the surrounding area, would be very happy to return.

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Hannah Says

Hi Selena, My fiance and I decided to ditch the traditional wedding plan and elope in Greece for 2022. Our original plan was to stay in santorini, ceremony the 2nd day, then spend 4 or 5 more days as a honeymoon. We want to relax, experience traditional foods and fun night life. Do you have any recommendations for example Santorini for the ceremony (first two days) then go to Mykonos or Milo’s for the remaining days? Love your website and recommendations!

That sounds like such a beautiful way to celebrate! Santorini is incredibly romantic and you could easily spend all your time there. One downside is that the beaches tend to be more rocky – so if you want to be laying out on the beach during the day, a good option would be to visit nearby Milos. I personally loved the restaurants and towns in Milos, and it would be my pick. Paros may have a bit more of a nightlife scene for you (and plenty of beautiful beaches). And Mykonos will certainly have nightlife, but isn’t my pick for traditional/authentic food. It all depends on what’s most important to you, but it’s tough to go wrong with any of those options! Have a wonderful time x

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Mariana Says

Love your blog! Planning our honeymoon to Mykonos, Santorini and then torn between Milos and Zakynthos. Since the first two islands we think are going to be more classic ‘touristy’ we want the last to be romantic with great food and plenty of beaches to relax. Do you have a recommendation if we are picking between Milos and Zakynthos? Want something less populated. thank you!

I’d go with Milos! It’s definitely romantic, has a beautiful downtown, and is filled with unique beaches. Zakynthos is larger and more built up, particularly in the southern part of the island. Congrats & have a wonderful honeymoon!

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Kristen Crinella Says

Hi Selena, I love all of your tips! My 18 year old daughter and I are traveling to arriving in Athens Tuesday 6/22 returning to LA Saturday 7/3. This leaves us with 10 days in Greece. We were going to explore Athens for 2 days and leave 8 days for islands. Is it crazy to visit Santorini, Paros & Milos in those 8 days? Thank you for your help!

Hi Kristen – your question is so similar to the one I just received below, so check it out as well : ) It’s not impossible, but you might be moving around more than is necessary! You will have more time to see Santorini’s pretty towns and coastline, plus time to explore all the unique beaches that Milos has to offer, by sticking with two islands. Paros is amazing but quite large, so it’s likely you’ll only scratch the surface by visiting for 2-3 days. I would personally stick with two islands, and plan a future trip to see Paros (and neighboring Antiparos)! Enjoy!

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Ashley Says

Hi Selena, This post is so helpful! My Fiancé and I are starting to plan our honeymoon and this got me very excited, after a pretty stressful COVID wedding planning year. This will be the first time for both of us in Greece, and we will be flying into Athens, so we will probably spend a day or two there. We definitely want to visit Santorini. Then I was thinking Milos, and maybe Zakynthos if we have time. We will only be in Greece for 8-10 days depending how much time we can get off. So I’m not sure if we have time for 3 islands.

Hi Ashley! I can only imagine all the wedding stress you’ve gone through – sounds like exciting plans on the horizon to make up for it though : )

In terms of ferry routes, Zakynthos is more out of the way from Santorini and Milos. If those two islands are set, I’d suggest Paros or Naxos instead (both more accessible from Santorini/Milos). That said, you might be better off sticking to two islands. There’s SO much to explore on Milos. I spent 6 days there but could have easily spent more! I think your itinerary of Athens – Santorini – Milos for 8-10 days is absolutely perfect.

Hope that helps x

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Hello! I like this post. The tips are very helpful, and the photos are just amazing! Thank you for sharing that.

You’re welcome x

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Hi Selena! My husband and I are planning our honeymoon in Greece. Do you think 14 days is enough to do Naxos, Paros, Santorini, and Milos? Where do you recommend we arrive/depart from, as well as the order of the islands to visit that makes sense with the ferry routes? Thank you!

You could fit in all 4, but you will be moving around a decent amount! Getting to Santorini is typically easiest, so you could start in Santorini (let’s say 3-4 days), take a ferry to Milos and spend 4-5 days, then ferry to Paros and spend 4+ days. Naxos is VERY close to Paros (1 hour ferry away) and the ferries run more frequently, so if I were you, I would leave Naxos until the end of the trip and only add it on if you want to move around again. You might find that there’s so much to explore in Paros (it’s the largest of the 4) that you don’t need the additional island. Naxos is beautiful, so this is purely a suggestion to give yourself some flexibility if it does end up being more ferries than you feel like!

I hope that helps. Congrats!

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Kristin Says

Hi Selena, we are planning holiday in Greece this year in august. We will fly to Athens and fly back from Santorini and we have eight full days. I can´t decide if we should visit Milos & Santorini or Paros & Santorini. It´s our first time in Greece. Thank you!

Depends on your priorities! Paros is bigger and you can also hop over for a day trip to Antiparos, which is always fun. Downtowns are great. Milos is a bit smaller but has more diversity in beaches I’d say. Both have wonderful restaurants, charm, and lots to explore… you can’t go wrong! Enjoy x

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My husband and I are traveling to Greece at the beginning of October for 12 nights. We are planning to travel to three islands total with our definite go-to’s being Santorini and Milos. We are having trouble deciding between Mykonos and Paros for the third island. Just curious, how would you suggest to travel to and from these islands and where should we start our trip?

I’ve always traveled by ferry, but both Santorini and Mykonos have direct flights from Athens. Between Mykonos and Paros, I preferred Paros personally – I loved the downtown areas, the restaurants, and the variety of beaches. It’s more laid back. Mykonos is on the pricier side (both for stays and eating out) and was more crowded when we visited in September. That said, I have a number of friends who return to Mykonos and love the vibe. It’s all about what your’e looking for! Enjoy the trip, it will be wonderful no matter what you choose!

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Elizabeth Says

Such an amazing blog – so well written and some incredible photos! My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Greece in July: 5 days in Milos and 5 days in Paros. Would you recommend spending longer in one over the other and did you find it easy to travel between the two? We love beaches, good food and exploring new places. Thank you!

I think that’s a perfect itinerary! Both have so much to offer and their own unique vibes. It’s not difficult to travel between the two and you should have plenty of time to get a feel for each. x

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Trisha Says

What are your thoughts on Crete? We are wanting to go to Greece for about 10 days, thinking of skipping Athens entirely and heading straight to santorini and then Crete. We want a mix of beach time and exploring the city. Thank you!

I haven’t personally been to Crete! I have friends that have gone and loved it. As it’s much larger in size, there are real downtowns, more options for hotels/restaurants/transport, and more ease of getting around. But that also means more crowds and busy areas. Really up to you in terms of what you’re looking for.

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Heather J Says

Wow! What a gorgeous and helpful article! Your photos are amazing! Im hoping to spend 8-10 days next Sept with my BF in the cyclades. We want to fly into one island and spend first 4 nights there and then spend next 4 nights in our departure town/island. We plan to use the ferry to day trip to neighboring islands. Our main focus is: scenic beauty (both natural & architecture), swimming, food, and relaxation. We would be so very grateful if you would give us your recommendation if which 2 islands we should pick as our homebases. Thank you!!

So hard to choose! If you’re really keen on visiting other islands from a base, I’d say Paros is a great option because of its proximity to other islands. It has a bit of everything: great food, pristine beaches, nightlife, hotels, etc. And it’s so easy to hop on a boat and visit Antiparos for the day. You could also pop over to the nearby island of Naxos, which is much more mountainous and has a beautiful downtown area on the water.

As for the other island, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’ve never been to the Greek Islands, Santorini is of course incredibly unique and beautiful. The town of Oia overlooking the water is unlike anything else. However, it’s not known for beaches (they’re mostly rocky) and can get quite crowded and expensive. Milos on the other hand is another great option, as it has really unique beaches and is more affordable and easy to get around. Both are great options, and I would personally go back to both Santorini and Milos. You really can’t go wrong with what you pick! Good luck x

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AlaskasWorld Says

Wow… that’s really impressive. Very detailed information and description of all local places. I am planning to visit somewhere on next Christmas, and after reading this article, I have added this to my bucket list. I must tell you that your photography skills are amazing. The way you have captured photographs make this article even more eye-catching. Keep posting such amazing work and keep inspiring thousands like me. Thanks…

Thank you x

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Max Axline Says

Ah I miss Greece! I love your article and all your photos. We will definitely be adding some of your recommendations on to our next trip!

Glad to hear it, thanks Max!

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Great article! I love Greece and plan to go back next summer. I love Jumping off of cliffs into the ocean especially! any suggestions for islands that have spots for this? Also, could you tell me the island where you took the main picture for this post? I’d love to jump off there! 😄

The main picture featured is of Sarakiniko Beach in Milos. More info in these posts:

Milos, Greece Travel Guide: https://finduslost.com/milos-greece-travel-guide/ Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Post: https://finduslost.com/moonscapes-of-sarakiniko-beach-in-milos-greece/

Hope that helps!

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Nick @ GreekBoston.com Says

There are so many Greek islands that are worth visiting, it can be hard to choose! This is a great guide that can help people find their best island, or islands, depending on the trip.

Thanks Nick!

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Hi! I love your posts and your pictures are so pretty! I’m planning a trip to Greece with 3 of my friends to celebrate graduating college. We are hoping to visit 2 islands, and want to mix culture and cute towns with beautiful nature and beaches. Any recommendations? A huge party scene like Mykonos or Ios isn’t necessary, but also don’t want something super dead. Thinking of Santorini and Milos, but completely open to changes and recommendations.

Paros is great with friends! Lots of accommodation options, plenty of beaches, and you can day trip to Antiparos. Enjoy!

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Ann Bookman Says

Hi! My husband and I are going to Greece for the first time this April. We have two weeks. We will spend a couple of nights in Athens, and then want to spend most of our time on two islands. We are pretty sure we want to go to Crete. But it’s so big that we would like advice on where to stay and what part of the island to focus on. We will have 5 nights, six days. Then we want to go to one other island – where should we go? We would love your recommendations. We are into nature, archeological finds, relaxing and good local food. I think it will be too early to swim, butt we like to walk. Look forward to your expert advice!

Hey Ann – Milos is one of my favorite islands, but you can’t really go wrong with any of the Greek Islands featured in this guide. xx

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My husband and I are also going to Greece in April for 2 weeks and were thinking Crete for 5 nights, Santorini for 3 nights, Milos for 3 nights, and Athens for3 nights. Was hoping for advice and/or recommendations on this itinerary/timeline (e.g., the islands we selected, durations for each)

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Emily K. Says

Hi! My husband and I are going on our honeymoon and on somewhat of a budget (we like nice things but need to make the money go as far as possible). We are going to splurge and spend 2-3 nights in Santorini, and are thinging about crete for our other spot but keep finding other islands to consider! We love food and wine, but really are looking to relax, enjoy nature, snorkel, and be away from crowds/off the beaten path. Are there any islands you would recommend, or do you think crete is a solid choice?

Sounds like an amazing honeymoon! It’s pretty easy to get to Paros, Naxos or Milos from Santorini – all three of which we loved (but Milos wins for my favorite, the beaches are insane). You might want to check out this post for help deciding:

How To Choose Which Greek Island To Visit: https://finduslost.com/greek-islands-how-to-choose-which-to-visit/

Haven’t been to Crete personally, but it’s on my list for the future!

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Ross Robinson Says

Chios is one of the most beautiful islands and only 40 minutes ferry ride to Cesme in Turkey if yo want a change of day out. Chios has some of the most beautiful scenery and quaint villages like Pygri and Mosta. Pygri is known for its painted houses and also it’s mastic museum. The people are friendly and welcoming. The island of Chios is the 3rd largest island in Greece and there is plenty to see and do while spending a few weeks or longer exploring.

Thanks for the recommendations Ross! I’d love to see Chios.

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Justine A Foster Says

Hi – If you were to pick one island in addition to Milos and Sanorini, which would it be? Also, if you only had 1 -2 days in each, in your opinion what are must do/see? Thank you!

I’d probably pick Paros since it’s more laid back and has less tourists! My favorite things to do in each are in the full guides below, but for Santorini I’d definitely make sure to visit Oia, have lunch on the water in Ammoudi Bay (below Oia) and watch the sunset in Santorini. For Milos, I’d focus on beaches and hit Sarakiniko Beach and Tsigrado and Firiplaka (both unique beaches that are next to each other). I also loved Firapotomos beach. Have a great time!

Santorini guide: https://finduslost.com/complete-santorini-greece-travel-guide/

Milos guide: https://finduslost.com/milos-greece-travel-guide/

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Emily Esposito Says

Hi! Your guides are amazing and I’m obsessed with all your pictures, content and reviews so thank you! I am planning a trip with my boyfriend to the greeks islands this September (yes last minute planning) and we have 10-11 days. Is it too much to try to do 3 islands in that time frame? Milos looks amazing, and then I wanted to do Santorini for romance and Mykonos for a nightlife. Forgandros has been highly recommended too by friends but I can’t pick! Wanted to get your thoughts! Thanks!

Hi Emily! Nah, we’ve had way more last minute planning than that ;). I definitely think you could fit 3 islands in!

If it were me, I’d plan for 4 nights in Milos, 3 in Santorini, and 3 in Mykonos. In my opinion Milos has the best beaches of the three so you’ll want the extra day to explore there. The main part of Santorini you won’t want to miss is Oia (the part of the island you most likely know from photos), and it’s small. If you stay in Oia specifically, 3 nights is enough. You can also spend one afternoon in Fira, which is another main town. Then you can hop over to Mykonos (or vice versa).

I wish I could give you my opinion on Folegandros, but we actually tried to visit last September and our ferry got cancelled twice due to high winds! We never actually made it there and ended up in Naxos instead (also a beautiful island). Folegandros is much harder to get to and the ferries become more sporadic in late September and early October (I believe they switched to only twice a week), so it might be easier to focus on Milos / Santorini / Mykonos instead.

I hope that helps! Have the best time. xx

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Noelle Says

Thank you for the great content! This was so informative.

My fiance and I have been trying to pick which islands to scout for a potential destination wedding. There are so many websites, but this has been my favorite because the quantity of islands covered and your pros and cons of each.

Will be there for 3 weeks in September so want see at least 4. So far our top picks are Milos, Naxos, Paros, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. Ideally, we are looking for an island where our guests can generally get by on foot if they didn’t want to rent a car. Your feedback would be very much appreciated!!!

Hi Noelle – congrats on the upcoming wedding! As far as getting by on foot…unless everything for the wedding is within one town on the island (venue, accommodation, any events leading up to the wedding), that might be a bit tough. You could consider Pollonia in Milos – there’s a ton of hotels and a beautiful beach there. But it might be hard to limit your guests to one area?

If I were you, I’d present a few options to guests – if they don’t want to rent a car while visiting the islands, getting around by ATV or motorbike is also an option (and preferred in many cases, since it’s easier access to different beaches and the small side streets in each town). In terms of flexibility, I’ve found Paros to have lots of accommodation options (including larger guest houses), all within walking distance of the beach.

Hope this helps!

Thank you so much!!

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Mckenzi Says

Thank you for all of this amazing content! So helpful and so beautiful!

My husband and I are headed back to Greece and are wondering what island you recommend if we are doing Santorini already, we only get 3 days on each island so decided to just do two. We are thinking Milos for the second island, but thought I’d ask you if you would recommend Paros or Naxos instead?

Thanks so much! Kenzi

Nice call on Milos, it’s my favorite! Oooh, that’s tough. I’d say if you’re after beaches and food, head to Paros. If you want something a little different (i.e. ancient towns and the perfect island for a road trip through the mountains), go with Naxos. Hope that helps!

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Another beautiful island is Skopelos..the greenest island in Greece

Ooh I love the sound of that! Thanks for the tip xx

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Hi there, I leave for Italy and Greece next week and have 10 days in Greece. I was thinking Crete (3d), Santorini (2d), Milos (2d), Paros (2d) and Athens (2d) but I’m worried it’s going to be too rushed and too much travelling rather than relaxing. I was thinking about dropping one but don’t know how to choose and your list makes them all sound amazing! I am a solo female in my 20s and not into the party scene – any advice would be greatly appreciated! xxx

Hi Sarah – I’d suggest starting off with the three islands you mentioned (Crete, Santorini, Milos). If you end up loving Milos, just skip Paros! Then you’ll have 4 days in one place, as that itinerary involves a lot of moving around. There is plenty to see and do in Milos, so you certainly won’t be bored. 😉 enjoy!

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Lilla Semperger Says

Thank you for this great summary, Selena! I visited only Santorini about 2 years ago and I fell in love with it. It was so beautiful, there were plenty things to do and riding an ATV was so much fun. I’m definitely planning to visit other Greek Islands soon. Your pictures make me want to go right now.

That’s how our addiction to the Greek Islands started as well! Hope you make it back there soon 🙂 xx

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This is very helpful while I plan out trip this year, thank you!! A question for you if you can answer: I know you mentioned Setember to be the best month for swimming, but would you say that’s still the case for the last week of September and first week of October? These are the dates that seem to be working out with our schedule but we really don’t want to compromise on beaches and swimming!

Yes definitely! We were there that time last year and it was PERFECT. One thing to be mindful of — at the end of September the tourist season is effectively over, so ferry schedules will shift dramatically. We ended up on one island thinking we could take a ferry that Friday (per the summer schedule) and it had switched to once a week. So check beforehand! Not the worst thing to be stranded on a Greek Island though… 😉

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Léonor Says

Such a great article! Greek Islands are what (my) dreams are made of and your article just makes me want to hop on a boat and discover them all (or almost because there’s too many of them ahah)! I will definitely plan a trip around some of these islands :).

So glad it inspired you! It’s one of the handful of places in the world I can’t seem to get enough of xx

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greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

The World Was Here First

Mykonos vs Santorini: Which Greek Island to Visit?

Last Updated on March 8, 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.

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

First-time visitors to the Greek islands – especially those who are short on time – are often faced with the great Mykonos vs Santorini conundrum if they don’t have time to visit both. These two Cycladic Islands are amongst the most popular, picturesque and idyllic in Greece, but which is right for you?

While Mykonos is generally better for beaches and partying, Santorini is seen as a better option for families and those who prefer hiking and history. However, there is a lot more to consider when choosing between the two islands!

If you’re stuck wondering which of these gorgeous islands is the right choice for you, this guide will cover the pros and cons so you’re armed with all the information needed ahead of your trip to Greece!

Table of Contents

Once a quiet island inhabited mainly by fishermen and farmers, Mykonos has grown to be one of the top tourist destinations in Greece. The island was made famous by Aristotle Onassis and Jackie Kennedy-Onassis and their socialite friends during the 1960s. Mykonos is famed for its beauty, hedonistic nightlife, and pristine beaches.

Mykonos windmills and sea

Accessibility

Most visitors go to Mykonos on a high-speed ferry from Athens , which takes around three hours. There are slower boats which will take a little longer but are cheaper. You can book ferries here .

The island is also served by Mykonos International Airport which sees flights from all over Europe in the summer months. There are also multiple flights from Athens every day.

Mykonos is not a big island. At 85 km sq., the island is home to about 10,000 people. This number swells dramatically to around 40,000 in the busy summer months.

The main Mykonos town of Chora is easily accessible on foot. In fact, it’s a place where you don’t want a vehicle! The streets are a warren of alleyways and streets that are perfect for wandering and exploring on foot.

The only motorised vehicles you will see are small scooters and quads that deliver supplies to businesses early in the morning.

If you’re heading further afield on the island, there is an excellent network of buses run by KTEL from the Fabrika bus station, just to the south of town. In the summer months, these very affordable buses, costing no more than €3 a ticket, run well into the night to the vast majority of Mykonos’ most famous sandy beaches.

Mykonos has a limited number of taxis – at the last count it was somewhere around €35, so planning in advance can be useful. Many hotels can help to organise shuttles given notice.

Unless you are heading to some of the farther-flung beaches, you can probably get by without your own transport.

The island has very narrow roads, and in summer months, accidents are common. If you do rent a vehicle, a car will be much safer than a scooter or ATV. You can browse Rentalcars.com for options.

Little Venice at Sunset

Affordability

There’s no denying it, Mykonos is regularly mentioned as “the most expensive place in Greece .” It is even more expensive than the capital, Athens. It’s not uncommon to see headlines like: “Price of Gyro over €7 in Greece” – referring to the prices in Mykonos.

But do not fear! Mykonos can also be quite affordable – you just have to go be a bit thrifty.

Food is generally quite expensive. The island has a glut of high-end dining options. Quality is often high, but the price tag might leave a sour taste in your mouth. You can bring costs down eating at local tavernas and enjoying quality Greek street food like gyro and souvlaki. Take a public bus for €3, instead of a taxi for €30. Stay three nights in a comfortable and friendly pension for the price of one night at a luxury resort on one of the more exclusive beaches.

The beaches are a highlight of Mykonos, but two sunbeds with umbrellas can cost over €100 a day in high season!

However, Greek law dictates that even organised beach clubs have to leave a section of sand for people to put their towels down. Get there early, bring your own towels, buy a parasol from the mini market and enjoy the sunshine and beautiful beaches at no extra cost.

Mykonos certainly does a good job of being a luxury destination. As it becomes more popular with celebrities and sees more coverage in the tabloid newspapers, the prices will continue to go up. But it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Super Paradise Beach

Things to do in Mykonos

One thing you should ask yourself when deciding whether to visit Santorini vs Mykonos is what is there to do? Luckily, Mykonos has a wealth of things to keep any visitor busy!

Chora, the central town of the island, is well worth a day of exploring. Start in the quiet bougainvillaea-filled streets in the morning before the visitors arrive. As the day goes on, you will find plenty of shops with friendly owners, gorgeous domed churches like the Paraportiani, and plenty of places for a tasty snack.

Food is a big deal in Mykonos. Many of the restaurants in Chora are world-class, and there is a focus on Mediterranean cuisine. Find excellent meat dishes at M-Eating, great seafood at Katerina’s, awesome Italian at D’Angelo and fine dining at Krana.

However, some of the best fare can be found at the small tavernas dotted around this Greek island.

Rizes in Ano Mera is like stepping back in time to Mykonos of the ’60s, and Kiki’s Taverna at Agios Sostis is the stuff of legend. Giant portions of grilled meat and fish and a massive range of salads will fill your plate at this seaside taverna.

There are no reservations, so show up at least an hour before you want to eat – grab a beer and enjoy the view whilst you wait.

Paraportiani church

Chora starts to buzz as evening closes in – the Mykonian sunset is world-famous and is best experienced from Little Venice or the windmills. Sunset cocktails turn to shots as the music gets louder and Chora comes alive with revellers.

There are plenty of old town bars like Skandinavian Bar and Jackie O’s to keep you busy well into the night. Many of the beaches will be partying all night long. Paradise Beach will see revellers dancing until morning at world-famous club Cavo Paradiso.

If it’s the sun on your skin that makes your holiday perfect, look no further than the beaches of Mykonos’ southern coast. If you’re trying to decide between beaches on Mykonos or Santorini for families – don’t worry, Mykonos has family-friendly beaches, and beaches that are definitely adult-only.

Ornos and Kalafatis beaches are family-friendly, whilst Paradise and Super Paradise are more adult-themed. Nudity is common on many of Mykonos’ beaches. There is a handy water taxi that links all the beaches and runs hourly along the south coast, offering incredible views of the rugged landscape.

Getting out on a boat is a great part of being in Greece but using one to get to a tourist attraction is a double whammy. Located 30 minutes off the coast of Mykonos, visitors with an interest in history can visit the island of Delos.

The whole island is an uninhabited archaeological site. Once one of the biggest ports in the Aegean, Delos now sees visitors keen to explore its dusty streets, ruined temples and well-kept mosaics and theatres. 

Delos

Where to Stay on Mykonos

Panormos Village – Located on the north coast of Mykonos, this hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors to the island. They have a number of rooms to choose from along with breakfast and a great swimming pool to enjoy.

Alissachni Mykonos – Another great luxury hotel option, this hotel located in Psarou is a great choice while in Mykonos. They have a number of great rooms to choose from (some with private pools) and a great breakfast daily.

MyCocoon Hostel – This hostel is a great choice for those looking to visit Mykonos on a tight budget. They have both dorms and private rooms to choose from along with an on-site bar and a swimming pool to enjoy.

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

Mykonos' Famous Windmills

About 3600 years ago Santorini was a huge circular volcano called Strogili, meaning “the round one”. But when the volcano that made up the centre of the island exploded sending the vast majority of the island crashing into sea, or flying into the air, the island became uninhabitable for centuries.

Famous for its epic cliffs, hillside towns and beautiful black sand beaches – Santorini is a shining jewel in the Aegean Sea.

Santorini (also known as Thira) is located at the southern end of the Cycladic Island chain which also includes Greek islands like Naxos , Paros , Santorini and Milos . Many visitors will arrive via ferry from neighbouring islands, like Mykonos, or Crete .

If you come directly from Athens expect it to take around 4.5 hours on a high-speed ferry, or up to eight hours on a slow boat.

Santorini International Airport is well connected to Athens and its European neighbours. The airport located on the south of the island is well connected to the rest of the Island.

Just like Mykonos, Santorini isn’t too big. It has a population of about 16,000, and a land area of about 90 km sq.

Santorini is actually an archipelago of 5 islands – Thira, Thirassia, Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni and Aspronisi. The first, Thira is the main, inhabited island.

Thirassia is a smaller island with fewer visitors, and a more traditional way of life. Nea Kameni & Palea Kameni are the two volcanos, and Aspronisi is an uninhabited island of white pumice.

But the big difference between Mykonos and Santorini is where the prize real estate is. On Mykonos, it’s the old town and the beaches, but on Santorini, it’s all about the caldera. The caldera is the cliffs left by the ancient volcanic eruption. And many of the most famous spots on the island can be found dotted along the caldera.

Taxis are more abundant on Santorini, but there still aren’t as many as you would expect – wait times can be quite high, especially in the evenings.

Again, KTEL runs a good, affordable public bus network on this island. The main station is in Fira, the island’s capital. Prices are cheap, and they are relatively reliable.

Santorini has plenty of spots you might want to visit that public transport will not take you to – for this you will want to rent your own vehicle ( browse Rentalcars.com for options).

As before, a car will be safer than a scooter or ATV, but the roads are generally much wider and safer than in Mykonos. Do be wary of cliffside roads and try not to get too distracted by the amazing views!

Sunset in Oia

Whilst not as pricey as its competitor, Santorini can be an expensive island . Yes, there is a section that does cater to luxury, but there are far more family-friendly and affordable options on Santorini.

The black sand beaches of Kamari, Perivolos and Perissa have plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options with great tavernas and amenities that are suitable for families.

Anything that is located on the caldera will be more expensive because it has views for days.

In Oia, the most beautiful and northernmost town on the island, you will find houses carved into the volcanic rock of the caldera with stunning views that have been converted to luxury hotels.

As you can imagine, these can charge much more than the beachfront pensions , but if you are trying to decide between Mykonos and Santorini for a honeymoon, it’s well worth considering.

Many of the small towns have local tavernas where food is reasonably priced, and the ambience is traditional.

Tourist restaurants at the beaches will cost more, and the quality may be varied, but you will find a more relaxed vibe. Sunbeds will often be free with your meal, or even just with drinks!

Restaurants on the caldera will charge higher prices, and upwards of €18 for a main will not be unusual. Food quality is often high, and you’re paying a premium for the scenery – but what a view!

If you’re ordering beers or cocktails at the beaches, you can find reasonable prices and deals. Costs in Fira, being the capital will be higher – and anywhere with views on the caldera will be at a premium. 

Kamari

Things to do in Santorini

Fira, the capital, is full of touristy shops, selling everything from volcanic soaps to t-shirts emblazoned with donkeys (the island’s traditional form of transport). There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to park yourself at, grab a frappe and gaze down at the beautiful views.

Visitors who want to make the best of the stunning panorama should lace up their hiking shoes and hike from Fira to Oia (10 km). Taking two hours, plus however long you stop for photos (which will be a LOT), the hike will take in the villages of Imerovigli & Firostefani before taking you into Oia.

There are plenty of hills, so bring shoes with grip, and you should take plenty of water. The best time to start is early in the day, before the midday heat.

Visiting Oia in the day is nice, a peaceful experience with lots of unique shops, but visiting at sunset is a must. Be warned in advance, crowds can pack this place out to get photos with white and blue domed churches before witnessing the amazing sunset.

Secure your place well in advance. Lots of people watch from the Venetian Castle, but it can be worth trying to get a dinner reservation with a view as well.

As you travel along the caldera, your gaze will often be drawn to the two volcanoes – these can both be visited on an affordable tour. Nea Kameni is still an active volcano, and you can hike to the top!

Nea Kameni

Guides will tell you all about the history of the eruption and will be able to point you in the direction of thermal vents. Palea Kameni has hot springs filled with volcanic mud, and swimming to them from a boat trip is a welcome addition after hiking up the dusty volcano. You can also enjoy the volcanic sands at Red Beach.

If you want to learn about the unique history of wine on the volcanic island of Santorini, Santo Wines is well worth a visit. Perched on the caldera, they offer tasting flights of white wine all the way through to the sweet, rich dessert wine, Vinsanto.

Finally, if you want to understand more about the island’s history, the pre-eruption archaeological site Akrotiri is an incredible place to visit.

It holds the remains of a city well over 3,500 years old, you will see how people lived in multi-story houses, with toilets, and running water – before the eruption smothered Akrotiri in ash. It’s best visited with a guide, but all visitors can appreciate the wonder of walking through streets that are three and a half millennia old.

Akrotiri

Where to Stay on Santorini

Kalimera Hotel – Located close to some of Santorini’s best beaches, this is a great mid-range option on the island. Family-run and operated, they have a number of great rooms to choose from along with a delightful swimming pool and breakfast each morning.

Seaside Breeze – Those looking for luxury will love this upmarket hotel in Santorini. They have a range of beautiful rooms available (all have their own balcony) along with a shared terrace, swimming pool and a wonderful breakfast each morning.

Remezzo Villas – Another great luxe option for those looking to stay in Santorini, these suites boast sea views and an excellent location. There is also breakfast on offer each morning along with a perfect swimming pool to splash around in.

Caveland Hostel – Budget and solo visitors to Santorini will love this little hostel. Located in a small village in an old winery, they have private rooms and dorm beds available, on on-site swimming pool and good common areas.

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

Beautiful Oia town on Santorini island, Greece

Santorini vs Mykonos: The Verdict

As you can see, both islands have plenty to do, with interesting history and incredible sunsets. But which is right for you?

For families, Santorini offers a great variety of activities to suit kids of all ages.

When trying to decide between Santorini or Mykonos for couples, either island has a lot to offer, but it depends on what kind of a couple you are. That’s why it can be hard to also choose between Mykonos or Santorini for a honeymoon as they are both incredibly romantic islands with a lot to offer visitors.

If you like beaches, partying and exploring the winding streets of an old town, then Mykonos is probably the island for you.

However, if you like walking, history and relaxing views, then Santorini is more likely to tick the boxes for you.

The only way to know which is truly for you, is to visit both islands!

Deciding between Santorini and Mykonos can seem like an impossible task when you think about all these beautiful islands have to offer. However, each has its own unique charm and can appeal to visitors in their own ways.

Are you trying to decide which Cycladic island to visit? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

Related Posts:

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Mykonos Itinerary

Super Paradise Beach on Mykonos

Is Mykonos Expensive? A Mykonos Trip Cost Guide

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Paros Itinerary

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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.

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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.

mykonos

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.

Harbor, Town, Coast, Sea, Sky, Marina, Human settlement, Water, Village, Tourism,

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.

Coastal and oceanic landforms, Dome, Azure, Dome, Coast, Island, Byzantine architecture, Bay,

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.

preview for Leisure Section Curated

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greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

Q & A: Greek Island Hopping! Before Or After Mykonos Which Islands To Visit!

Greek island hopping.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Greek island with ‘picturesque’ beaches is a quieter alternative to Mykonos

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Amazing Sand Beach Of Paros Island

Mykonos is known as a haven for clubbers and celebs, but its bustling nature isn’t always what you want for a summer getaway.

If you prefer a quieter (and cheaper) break, there’s another location in Greece blessed with similarly stunning views and scorching hot weather .

Nestled in the Aegean Sea is the Greek island of Paros. With its gorgeous beaches and crystal clear waters overlooked by breathtaking landscapes, Paros is often overlooked because of its more well-known neighbours like Santorini.

But it should be at the top of your list when planning a Greek adventure, at least if you want to beat the crowds. Mykonos welcomes an estimated two million tourists each year according to The New York Times compared to less than 200,000 who head to Paros annually, making it a perfect breezy alternative.

Why you should visit Paros

You’re probably plotting your next Greek holiday for hot weather , a stunning natural landscape and a bit of history. Well, you’re in luck. 

Paros was made famous for its white marble quarries, from which Parian marble was produced. It was well sought-after for use in architecture and sculptures during the classical era, and the Venus de Milo was carved from separate blocks of Parian marble.

A map showing Paros in Greece

There are a number of stunning villages surrounded by nature here, such as Parikia, which is a port town and the island’s capital. If you choose to arrive on Paros by ferry, this is where your feet will first touch land. 

The charming town has wonderful reviews on Tripadvisor, with traveller Mairwen1 commenting: ‘I loved Parikia – it has as much, maybe more, to offer as the very popular Nouassa [a village north-east of Parikia]. It also feels less crowded and not as commercialised.’

After visiting the old traditional village which is lined with shops, stop by the church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, the 13th century Venetian Castle, the Archaeological Museum and a number of ancient sites, including the remains of the Old Temple of Athena.

Beach on Paros island

Sun-seekers will be pleased to know that there are a number of beaches on the island too. The top-rated on Tripadvisor is Kolymbithres Beach, described as a petite spot that has unique rock formations.

‘Excellent Beach but not much space on the sand,’ said a commenter known as W788OEFpeterk . ‘The rock formations make for little areas to sit and chill while out of the water. Beach was great, clean and very picturesque. Maybe not a place to stay long without lounge chairs but worth it to see.’

Additionally, Lageri Beach has golden sand and Martselo and Santa Maria will provide the ultimate backdrop to a summer hedonism. One common complaint amongst visitors, however, is the price of sunbeds and umbrellas, which can range from €30 to €60 for two.

Paros One Day Netflix

The island was also featured in the smash hit Netflix drama One Day. In episode four, Dexter (Leo Woodall) and Emma (Ambika Mod) reunite in Naoussa (which is sometimes spelt Naousa). Data from  Airbnb  shows that searches for for stays in Paros have increased by a third (32%) since the series aired.  

In this harbour village you’ll find a labyrinth of cobbled streets and a lovely fishing village.

How to get from the UK to Paros

Paros Airport (PAS) is located 11km south of the city of Parikia. You won’t be able to fly direct from the UK to Paros Airport.

However you can travel to Athens International Airport (which is also known as Eleftherios Venizelos Airport) and hop on a connecting flight, which should take around 45 minutes.

Monastiri beach, Paros, Cyclades islands, Greece

The total travel time from London to Paros will take 6h 30m. According to Skyscanner, you can get tickets from as low as £150 in April. The cost does increase heading into the summer months to £302 in August.

Alternatively, you can go via connecting flights from Athens International Airport to Mykonos on a direct easyJet service to Mykonos Airport, with flights starting at £46 in April on Skyscanner.

Ferries to Paros run from neighbouring Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini or Milos, which is especially handy if your itinerary calls for island-hopping.

For example, a ferry from Santorini to Paros takes between 1.5 to 4.5 hours depending on the type of vessel. Prices vary depending on the ferry company but tickets can be found on Ferry Hopper for around €32

View over the harbour, Mykonos Town, Mykonos

Where to stay?

Visitors have a range of hotels and Airbnbs on the island to choose from. Luxury resort Cosme, near Naoussa, was ranked by The Telegraph as the number one hotel on the island. 

‘A Cycladic fantasy come true, sand blows right up to the doorstep and tiny wooden fishing boats rest on the beach nearby,’ the outlet critiqued.

But with rooms costing £347 per night, it’s not the most affordable option. Conde Nast Traveller also praised the luxurious Paroks, Avant Mar, Mythic and Parilio hotels.

Colorful Street Of Naousa

For more affordable hotel options, popular and highly rated hotels on Booking.com include Meridiano in the capital Perikia, where prices start from £69 per night. 

If hotels aren’t your thing, though, Airbnb has got you covered. Fancy calling a Secret Garden Maisonette in Naousa your home for a few days, or how about a summer breeze cycladic apartment situated on the cobbled residential streets?

There are also deals available via services like Kayak. In Paros they start from £34 and in Mykonos from £37.

Whatever your vibe, you won’t be short of options.

What is the weather like?

Paros has a hot Mediterranean climate just like its neighbouring islands. The best time to visit to take advantage of the warm weather is July and August.

@tourista2023 Paros 🇬🇷: Greece’s Island Paradise #explore #thingstodo #tourista2023 #reels #shorts #travel #vacation #tourism #voyage #viral #viralvideo #fypシ #pourtoi #foryou #bestdestinations #luxurytravel #traveltiktok #traveling #paros #island #greece #parosgreece ♬ Tufan.Music1 – 𝑻𝒖𝒇𝒂𝒏 𝑴𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒄

But be warned; not only will both months be incredibly busy, you should stock up on SPF and water as well. In July, the average temperature is 26.6°C, while in August – the hottest month of the year – the temperature can reach 35°C.

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First time Mykonos: top tips for your first visit to Greece's party island

Aug 11, 2021 • 6 min read

Aerial of a jetty at Mykonos town.

Mykonos is known as a party island, but there's plenty more to see and do © proslgn / Shutterstock

Mykonos is the party animal of the Cycladic islands, Greece’s answer to Ibiza, with bronzed bodies thronging its beaches by day and bass lines pounding through its superclubs until dawn. But there’s more to Mykonos than the dazzling sand and insatiable revelers.

Spend a little time on  Mykonos  to discover the quiet charm of the Cycladic maze of Hora , the pleasure of traveling the backcountry roads and a dining scene to rival the other Greek islands .

Buildings on the shoreline behind a stony beach on Little Venice Bay in Hora, Mykonos, Greece

Best beaches on Mykonos

Whether you’re looking for a tiny, secluded cove lapped by cerulean waters or a wide stretch of sugar-white sand covered with sun worshippers, Mykonos has a beach to suit your needs. The island boasts 25 beaches, and they’re justifiably Mykonos' biggest natural attraction. Partygoers should look no further than Paradise or Super Paradise, dominated by eponymous beach clubs.  Paraga and Psarou are other favorites for beach parties. Popular with families,  Elia is Mykonos’ longest sweep of white sand, while Platys Gialos and Kalafatis are particularly good for water sports.

On the north coast, Panormos and Agios Sostis receive a fraction of visitors of the southern beaches and have naturist-friendly sections. Pebbled Myrsine and Fokos ' coves, reachable via rutted tracks off the northeast coast, offer seclusion and refuge from the crowds. In the southwest, Ornos bustles with dozens of seafront restaurants, while secluded Agios Ioannis is a good spot for windsurfing.

The 12 best beaches in Greece

Small street lined with purple bougainvillea, shop fronts and small cafes. There are seats outside some of the cafes with people sitting and talking in Hora, Mykonos, Greece

Best things to do beyond Mykonos' beaches

On the west side of the island, the tiny capital Hora (aka Mykonos Town) is Mykonos’ second-biggest attraction, after the beaches. You can lose yourself for hours in the enchanting warren of narrow pedestrian streets bedecked with bougainvillea and lined with picture-perfect, tiny churches, restaurants and boutiques. The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos  is well worth your while, as is the informative  Aegean Maritime Museum .

The shopping in Mykonos is excellent. For art, check out Mavrogenous Street. Greek designers line Matogliani, while Little Venice is great for casual fashion, jewelry and tacky souvenirs . Hora’s other delights include an appealing open-air cinema, Cine Manto , and a smattering of quirky art galleries, such as Rarity Gallery and  Art and Soul . The island’s hilly interior is dotted with small traditional villages, quite a contrast to the merry bustle of the coast. Swing by the only other settlement of any size in Mykonos, Ano Mera, and have a look at its pretty, whitewashed Tourliani Monastery , just off the taverna-lined main square.

Best nightlife in Mykonos

During the peak months of July and August, Mykonos doesn’t sleep. Hora has several clubs, including several gay and gay-friendly venues, but it’s the beach superclubs such as Cavo Paradiso , Super Paradise and Paradise Club that attract local and international DJs every night. Beach parties kick off in the afternoon, and the action keeps going until dawn. Regular shuttle buses ferry revelers between Hora, Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach. Those looking for a more sedate nocturnal pastime can check out the bars in Hora – anything from champagne cocktails at the Queen of Mykonos  and Galleraki or cheap shots at the Skandinavian Bar .

What to do on Mykonos

  • Diving:  Mykonos has plenty of walls, caves and wrecks to entice beginners and advanced divers alike. Diving operators are based on Paradise Beach, Lia Beach and Kalafatis Beach. The most reputable outfits include Mykonos Diving Center  and GoDive Mykonos .
  • Historical sites:  Mykonos is the gateway to the sacred island of Delos , the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Aphrodite, a Unesco World Heritage site and one of the most important and well-preserved archaeological sites in Greece. Daily boat trips depart from the pier in Hora.
  • Mountain biking:  Mykonos island has a hilly interior, quiet backcountry roads, tranquil villages and several practically deserted beaches along the north coast. Yummy Pedals tailors guided mountain-biking tours of the island to suit your skill level.
  • Sunset watching:  Prime spots for watching the greatest free show on earth include the bars of Little Venice in Hora, Kato Mili (a classic quartet of windmills on a hillock overlooking Little Venice) and Agios Ioannis beach.
  • Swimming:  Mykonos doesn’t lack places to take a plunge, from infinity pools at top hotels and private plunge pools to 25 beautiful sandy beaches that fringe the island.
  • Water sports:  Head to the Windsurf Centre Mykonos on Kalafatis Beach for lessons, or try your hand at adrenaline-packed activities such as flyboarding, wakeboarding and wakeskating with  Platys Gialos Watersports on the eponymous beach.

View of the pool at Grace Hotel in Mykonos, Greece

Where to stay on Mykonos

If money is no object, first-timers to Mykonos should opt for a beachfront boutique hotel with all the trappings of an upmarket Greek island property: elegant Cycladic curves, infinity pool, whitewashed interior, beamed ceilings, terraces that catch the breeze from the Aegean. Most are clustered around the beaches on the south coast, such as Platys Gialos. Standout options include Nissaki , Palladium  and Branco Mykonos . Travelers on a budget and looking to party can score sea views by staying at the Paraga Beach Hostel . Otherwise, numerous accommodations suit all budgets in and around Hora, from wallet-friendly MyCocoon Hostel and Hotel Matina  with a beautiful garden to the glamorous Bill & Coo Coast Suites and contemporary Semeli Hotel .

A plate of seafood at a restaurant on Mykonos, Greece

Where to eat on Mykonos

Mykonos has a terrific dining scene. The densest concentration of dining options is in Hora, where visitors can find anything from upmarket fusion dining represented by M-Eating and  Funky Kitchen to traditional Greek tavernas such as Joanna’s Nikos Place . You can find plenty of options along Platys Gialos Beach and Ornos Beach. Pretty much every single beach on Mykonos island has at least one decent restaurant, the most renowned of which is Kiki’s Taverna above Agios Sostis beach.

When to go to Mykonos

Peak travel time to Mykonos is June to September, so hotel prices are at their highest, and the beaches, restaurants and nightclubs are packed. Shoulder season (April to early June, late September and October) is arguably a more pleasant time to visit. You get the beaches minus the crowds, and accommodation prices are lower. In winter, it may be too cold for sunbathing and swimming, but bonuses include empty beaches and plenty of bargain accommodations. Many Mykonos residents rent out their houses in summer and return during low season, so lots of restaurants stay open year-round.

Best time to go to Greece

Visitors walking around Mykonos Harbor on a sunny day

How to get to Mykonos

Throughout the year, frequent ferries connect Mykonos with Athens’ ports of Rafina and Piraeus, as well as the neighboring islands of Tinos and Andros. In high season, high-speed catamarans link Mykonos with numerous other Cycladic islands, including Santorini and Paros. Check OpenSeas  for timetables. Mykonos Airport has year-round flights to Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as to European destinations during high and shoulder seasons. It’s easy to rent a car, moped or ATV from one of Mykonos’ many rental companies, and bus services around the island are reasonably frequent.

This article was originally published in October 2017.

You might also like: What you need to know about traveling to Greece right now Greece's stunning natural wonders Dreaming of owning a home in the Mediterranean? Here's all you need to know

This article was first published August 2019 and updated August 2021

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Mykonos: So much more than just a party island

Mykonos beach Greece

Mykonos is a no-brainer stop on the Cyclades island-hopping trail. The island situated the closest to the center of the Aegean sea, has been famed as the “Ibiza of Greece” and there’s no doubt that it has earned its title of party maven.

However, when I arrived on the island during off season it was only me and a few other travellers amongst the locals. Though I missed out on the party scene at its peak, I was able to see an authentic Mykonos, one that may get less recognition due to relentless hangovers or the magnetic draw of parties that run from dusk to dawn.

Here’s what has me hooked on this beautiful Greek island, and what will have you hooked too…

Step inside a postcard

The tale of narrow cobbled streets winding around whitewashed, stone cubic buildings with purple bougainvillea flowers flowing down from windowsills is not just a pretty thought. Mykonos Town, called Chora by the locals, delivers. The maze of streets in this town were said to have been crafted to confuse looting pirates.

Mykonos street Greece

Mykonos town

Follow the wanderlust-inducing labyrinth around this cosmopolitan center and you can peruse boutiques selling artisan jewellery and souvenirs along Matogianni St. This is the perfect promenade to draw you to more laid-back hangouts like Alley Cafe & Cocktail Bar. Doubling as a great bar to check out at night, I found that it’s equally as idyllic to chill out on the terrace during the day .

Visit Alefkanda, better known as Little Venice, for its seaside verandas and narrow paths leading to the water, reminiscent of Italy’s Venice. The 18th century settlement has a rich elegance while preserving the beautiful, simple architecture. Here you’ll have a great view of the windmills of Kato Mili, strategically placed for the strong winds known as meltemi , the wind blowing from north to northwest across the Aegean Sea.

Mykonos windmills Greece

You can get your fix of fresh-baked goods from Gioras Wood Bakery, the last bakery in the Cyclades to bake bread in traditional wood-fired ovens. George Vamvakouris, who inherited the 2nd oldest building on the island along with the artisan bread making techniques from his grandfather, raves about the amigdalota , meaning almond cookie in Greek. Since I’m not one to deny dessert for breakfast, I was seduced by some sweet treats to start off the day.

Contemporary art scene

In complement to its liberal party scene, the island of Mykonos has become a hub for international contemporary artists to showcase their work in its galleries.

Follow the cobbled streets of Chora for a gallery crawl. Start out at Dio Horia, a space that sets out to evoke debate over the dichotomy of Mykonos’ intoxicating charm and beauty, along with its excessive indulgence. My favourite, Rarity Gallery, is the first gallery to bring internationally known contemporary artist’s exhibits to the art scene in Greece. Rarity’s thoughtfully curated venue houses both avant-garde and traditional paintings, sculptures and photography. They curate five rotating solo exhibits annually, yet there’s always varied work to check-out year round.

SAIL FROM MYKONOS TO SANTORINI ON THIS AMAZING 8-DAY TRIP

Ouzo: The social magnet

The hedonistic social scene didn’t come out of nowhere. In Mykonos, happy hour starts in the afternoon and sets the social tone for the day. The first time I drank ouzo, I was offered the shot glass filled with cloudy liquor, let out a gia mas (cheers), then swiftly threw back the shot. This was when I was enlightened of the art of sipping ouzo by local ouzo revellers.

Ouzo isn’t just a drink— it’s a reflection of the hedonistic way of life of locals and visitors alike who come to the Cyclades to indulge. There was nothing sweeter than sitting in the sun and savouring the subtle notes of the anise-flavoured liquor.

Mykonos town dusk Greece

There’s nothing better thank drinks in Mykonos town at dusk

Don’t forget to sip the ouzo, this isn’t a sprint — it’s a marathon! Add mezza (Greek for appetizers) to the mid-day rotation; the ideal accompaniment to ouzo.

Take in the view of Old Port from Madoupas Cafe, which will more than take care of all your mezza needs. They also serve up the Mykonian staples: fresh tzatziki, ocean-to-table seafood as well as kopanisti , a spicy cheese dish with olive oil and tomato.

SUBSCRIBE TO INTREPID’S NEWSLETTER FOR TRAVEL INSPO, COMPETITIONS, GIVEAWAYS & MORE

The gateway to offshore  archaeology

The name Cyclades is from the root word cyclos , meaning circular formation, which refers to the arrangement of the Cyclades around the sacred island of Delos. Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage site that remains uninhabited and, since staying overnight on the island is prohibited, Mykonos is the best launch point for exploring its history. (There’s just a few miles between them.)

Delos Ruins Greece

Ruins of the Cleopatra House in Delos

Delos is considered the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. It is the largest island-based archaeological site on the globe, full of ancient gems, among them being the terrace of the Lions.

LOOKING FOR ANOTHER GREEK ISLAND GEM TO EXPLORE? CHECK OUT BEAUTIFUL NAXOS

Northern gems

Since public transportation isn’t the island’s strong point, it’s worth renting a 4-wheeler or motor bike to explore the northern coast. Mykonos’ off-road taverns deliver the authentic dining experience to satisfy that ever-craved Mediterranean diet.

Greek taverna

The quintessentially Greek taverna

Kiki’s Tavern, above the beach at Agios Sostis, has no phone to call to reserve nor any set hours, opening when the sun rises and closing when it gets dark. I followed the aroma of the charcoal barbecue to this modest restaurant and tasted a few of the many fresh salads, unable to choose just one – the indulgent spirit had rubbed off on me.

(For a more comprehensive explanation of Greek food, check out this guide and this foodie trip .)

My favourite spot to party was Panormos beach bar situated on the north side of the island, opposite of the restless Paradise beach. With wooden bench tables with multi-colored pastel cushions and ornate lanterns, they’ve mastered the boho-chic deco, while creating a lively atmosphere with house music and punchy cocktails.

On the northwest of the island, Mersini beach is a paradise — no umbrellas, no sunbeds, no blaring music, just clear waters. With a gradual sloping descent into the ocean, this secluded beach showcases Mykonos in its natural state. And, really, it shows how much more there is to the island than mere parties. Bliss.

Tempted to visit this stunning island? Check out our range of small group adventures in Greece.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, iStock, Intrepid Travel, iStock x2, Intrepid Travel)

Feeling inspired?

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

Julie Faye Germansky

I am a storyteller based in Toronto with a passion for all potato-based dishes, solo travel, sky-high views and talking to strangers. Join me for the ride at talk-to-strangers.com or keep up with my Instagram @julesfayegermansky and Twitter @julsgermansky

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Source: National Observatory of Athens / meteo.gr

Small houses and restaurants on the sea at sunset.

An island of beauty and magic

Small picturesque houses next to each other on the sea.

Unique Experiences

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

Touring the Island

Filming in mykonos.

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

THE GREEK TYCOON (1978)

She was the most famous woman in the world. He was a peasant, a pirate, a shark. The Greek Tycoon is the story of their fiery romance. Liz Cassidy, the unhappy widow of an assassinated American president, is pursued by womanising millionaire businessman Theo Tomasis, who proves to be very persistent. Starring Jacqueline Bisset, Anthony Quinn, Edward Albert and James Franciscus.

DIRECTOR: J. LEE THOMPSON FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, ATHENS, MYKONOS

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

SUMMER LOVERS (1982)

Michael Pappas and his girlfriend, Cathy, are enjoying the white sand beaches of a Greek island as well as the freewheeling nature of the locals. When Michael meets Lina, who is in Greece from Paris doing archaeological work, he is attracted by the beautiful foreigner. Cathy, unhappy about Lina getting close to Michael, confronts the woman- only to be unexpectedly wooed by her charms as well.

DIRECTOR: RANDAL KLEISER FILMING LOCATION: MYKONOS, SANTORINI, DELOS, HERAKLION

Other destinations

Night view of a large ancient gate in the foreground and in the background a Cycladic settlement with a port.

Kea (or Tzia)

2 windmills at the top of a hill and in the background a traditional Cycladic settlement

Ferry routes

greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

IMAGES

  1. Greek Island Hopping Athens

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  2. Mykonos Greece: Travel Guide 2023

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  3. Mykonos' Top 10 Most Photogenic Locations

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  4. Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit

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  5. The 8 Best Greek Islands to Visit in 2023

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  6. Greek Island Hopping Mykonos

    greek island to visit before it becomes like mykonos

VIDEO

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  2. Greek Islands you should visit #greekislands #greece #summertrip

  3. most underrated Greek island award goes to #greece #greeceinspo

  4. My visit to the Greek Island of MIKONOS

  5. This island is paying $45,000 to relocate #greece #santorini #greek #athens #mykonos #antikythera

  6. Top 5 Greek islands

COMMENTS

  1. 16 Greek Islands To Visit Instead Of Mykonos

    11 Paros. A quick ferry ride away from Naxos is the popular Cycladic island, Paros. While still a favorite among tourists, Paros is less expensive and crowded than Mykonos or Santorini, with all the charm. Paros boasts vibrant blue waters, romantic stone streets, and white-washed buildings with blue roofs.

  2. 10 Stunning Greek Islands (That Aren't Santorini or Mykonos)

    Greece has around 227 inhabited islands—and beauty has been shared between them equally. Deciding which one to visit is the tricky part. Each has a special something about it. I love the Greek Islands. And I'll admit, it makes my heart sink a little every time I hear someone is visiting Greece but only going to Santorini and/or Mykonos ...

  3. The 11 Best Greek Islands To Visit from Mykonos (2023)

    Cue this guide to the best Greek islands to visit from Mykonos. It offers nine fantastic places that are just a quick hop by boat from the good-time party island of the Cyclades chain. There's certainly no shortage of enticing options. Some are pure bucket-list stuff, like the soaring ridges and crumbled volcanic rocks of Santorini. Others ...

  4. The Greek island to visit now

    Saturday August 26 2023, 12.00pm, The Times. F irst came the Romans and the Byzantines, then the bronzed gods and goddesses of the global jet set. And on the short drive from the port of Paros to ...

  5. 16 Greek Islands To Visit Instead Of Mykonos

    Associated: Visit Serifos: The Greek Island for Purists and Naturists. 7 Rhodes. Rhodes is a part of the Dodecanese Greek Islands and is nearer to mainland Turkey than mainland Greece. The medieval metropolis of Rhodes is the must-see attraction of the island and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, added to the most beautiful towns to visit around ...

  6. Best Greek Islands To Visit In 2024 That Aren't Santorini Or Mykonos

    Best Greek island day trip from Athens - Hydra. There's a few islands that can be visited as a day trip from Athens, with Hydra being perhaps the most famous one. This cosmopolitan little place is one of the Saronic Islands just an hour from Athens. Visitors often take what is known as a 3 islands trip, combining a visit to Hydra with Aegina ...

  7. The Best Greek Islands to Visit in 2024

    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 ...

  8. The 25 best Greek islands to visit in 2023

    10. Kythera. Old Greece. Kythera remains a nugget of Old Greece, isolated south of the Peloponnese, where family-run hotels dot the beaches, welcoming tavernas spill out onto the streets and old ...

  9. Forget Mykonos and Santorini

    Modern Syros was settled by the descendants of Venetian merchants who put down roots in Ano Syros, a village high above the harbor, in the 13th century. After the Greek War of Independence in the ...

  10. The 9 Best Greek Islands: Where to Go in Greece

    1. Santorini. Santorini is arguably the most famous of the Greek islands, and for good reason. Not only is there never a shortage of things to do in Santorini, but the island is also a postcard-perfect destination with the famous Cycladic architecture people often associate with the Greek islands.

  11. Which Greek islands should I visit?

    Take your pick of Greek island jewels. Most first-timers choose the Cyclades, homing in on Santorini for its cliffs dripping with whitewashed cubic buildings, and Mykonos for its charismatic appeal. Once you've had your fill of Mykonos, take the ferry to nearby Tinos. This low-key island has quietly earned itself a reputation for exceptional ...

  12. Best Greek Islands Near Mykonos

    So, the best islands near Mykonos are: 1. Santorini. You have probably already heard a lot about Santorini and if you are thinking of visiting Mykonos then chances are, you are thinking of visiting Santorini too. Santorini (along with Mykonos) is probably the most famous Greek island, for many reasons. Read Also: How To Get From Athens to ...

  13. 6 must-visit Greek islands and what you can do on each

    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.

  14. The Greek Islands: How To Choose Which Ones To Visit

    Artia Mansion - $$$ - a beautiful cave house centrally located in Oia with a terrace. Oia Spirit - $$$ - beautiful, white-washed Greek residences with arguably the best view (and location) in all of Oia. Kastro Oia Houses - $$$$ - picture perfect suites in one of the most desirable spots on the island, with a terrace and hot tub.

  15. Mykonos vs Santorini: Which Greek Island to Visit?

    It has a population of about 16,000, and a land area of about 90 km sq. Santorini is actually an archipelago of 5 islands - Thira, Thirassia, Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni and Aspronisi. The first, Thira is the main, inhabited island. Thirassia is a smaller island with less visitors, and a more traditional way of life.

  16. Best Greek Islands

    SANTORINI. 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 ...

  17. Q & A: Greek Island Hopping! Before Or After Mykonos Which Islands To

    The island of Milos is located a little bit further being connected to Mykonos only in summer months with high speed vessels with the voyage to last only 4 ½ hours. The island of Ios is 2 ½ hours from Mykonos, while Syros island is just 1 1/2 hour away and the islands of Paros and Naxos are 2 hours and 45 minutes away respectively.

  18. Greek island with 'picturesque' beaches is like Mykonos but quieter

    Monastiri beach, Paros, Cyclades, Greece (Picture: Getty Images) The total travel time from London to Paros will take 6h 30m. According to Skyscanner, you can get tickets from as low as £150 in ...

  19. Greek Island Itinerary: Mykonos, Santorini and Crete

    Eat: With white tablecloths contrasted by vibrant bougainvillea, the small Avra Restaurant in Mykonos Town looks like a dream. And it tastes like one, too, offering excellent steaks, seafood and traditional Greek dishes. Stay: Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, Mykonos features 101 guestrooms across 20 acres. Many rooms feature sweeping ...

  20. First time Mykonos: top tips for your first visit

    Mountain biking: Mykonos island has a hilly interior, quiet backcountry roads, tranquil villages and several practically deserted beaches along the north coast. Yummy Pedals tailors guided mountain-biking tours of the island to suit your skill level. Sunset watching: Prime spots for watching the greatest free show on earth include the bars of ...

  21. Best of Mykonos: A Greek island guide

    written by Julie Faye Germansky June 22, 2017. Mykonos is a no-brainer stop on the Cyclades island-hopping trail. The island situated the closest to the center of the Aegean sea, has been famed as the "Ibiza of Greece" and there's no doubt that it has earned its title of party maven. However, when I arrived on the island during off season ...

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    There are only about 70 of them, and arriving on the island by ferry from the southern coast of Crete feels like stepping back in time to a Greece that is light years away from the bling and ...

  23. Mykonos

    Chora The island capital is a typical town of the Cyclades, one that will impress you with its sheer beauty and style. Walk along its narrow backstreets, see the little whitewashed houses with the blue-coloured window frames and the small wooden balconies, the pots of colourful fragrant flowers, the little churches & the museums, pass by the busy shops that line the streets and enjoy your ...

  24. Mykonos Greece

    Mykonos is the jet-setter of the Cyclades, inviting you to experience its palpable energy, perfect beaches and pulsating nightlife. Mykonos has been attracting an international crowd like a magnet since the 1960s and has been voted a top summer holiday destination time and again for good reason. Exceptional beaches, award-winning restaurants ...