Dreaming of crystal-clear water, whitewashed villages, and endless sunshine? The Greek Islands are calling. Whether you’re after laid-back beach days, lively nightlife, historic ruins, or authentic food experiences, there’s a perfect island waiting to match your travel vibe. Here are 14 of the best Greek islands to help you find your dream escape.
Kos
Kos is one of the more famous of the Greek islands. It’s full of both beautiful natural sights and amazing historic spots, like Paleo Pili. While there, you’ll want to see the archaeological dig site, Agora of Kos, and the steps of the Roman Odeon of Kos. There are many fantastic beaches, like Agios Stefanos Beach and Lagades Beach that will blow you away. Kos is also close to Turkey, so you can build two countries into your itinerary by hopping from Kos to Bodrum. There are usually 4-5 daily ferries from Kos to the port of Bodrum in Turkey.
Santorini
Santorini is an extremely popular destination for holiday-goers, but it is especially famed for its appeal to couples. Ask anyone where they’d go on honeymoon and Santorini is often in the list. It’s often considered to be one of the most beautiful places on Earth, partially for its location on top of the cliff facing the caldera, with jaw-dropping views. You can barely turn a corner on Santorini without being presented with a picturesque view.
Paxos
Paxos is sometimes considered a little out of the way for many tourists, as it’s one of the Greek islands that doesn’t have an airport, but there is a ferry. Once you get there, you will absolutely fall in love with the stunning natural views. This is a peaceful island filled with olive groves, crystal clear water, and small seaside villages to explore. The capital of Gaios is a fun place to explore on foot through the lovely pedestrianized streets with cute cafes and restaurants to stop at.
Naxos
Less flashy than its neighbors but full of charm, Naxos is a hidden gem with golden beaches and authentic Greek life. It’s great for families and foodies, thanks to its laid-back vibe and rich culinary scene. You’ll find ancient ruins, mountain villages, and some of the best beaches in the Cyclades.
Rhodes
If your idea of a great vacation involves soaking up the history and culture of the medieval and ancient world, then Rhodes is the place to go. Rhodes is the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands and it’s known for its beach resorts, ancient ruins and the lingering stories of its occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades. The Old Town is fun to walk around to see the Street of the Knights and visit the Palace of the Grand Masters.
Mykonos
Famous for its glamorous beach clubs and lively nightlife, Mykonos knows how to bring the energy. But beyond the party scene, you’ll find charming whitewashed streets, stylish boutiques, and windmills overlooking the sea. Spend your days at chic beach bars and your evenings wandering through Little Venice with a cocktail in hand.
Antiparos
If you’re the sort of vacationer that really likes to get away from the crowd, then spending some time on the small island of Antiparos might be your destination! As one of the smaller Greek islands – even smaller than its close neighbor Paros – you’ll hardly be able to find a better spot for a delightfully secluded retreat. You’ll find yourself almost taken back in time, and will absolutely love the beauty and remoteness of this island.
Crete
Crete is the largest of all of the islands of Greece, and is one of the most popular destinations in the country. It’s very easy to get to. If you love the hustle and bustle of a busier island, you will absolutely love a getaway in Crete! There is so much to do in Crete, like sailing, kayaking, and catamaran tours. You’ll find absolutely stunning vistas if you’re looking for somewhere a little further away from the more populated areas of Crete, as there are countless beautiful sights to see.
Amorgos
Amorgos is another absolutely delightful Greek island, but one that many people might well not have heard of. And that could well be a good thing, because Amorgos is definitely one of the most beautiful places that a couple could visit, and yet the fact that it is relatively unknown compared to other Greek islands makes it a great place for a couple looking for a relatively untouched paradise. Those who want the most authentic Greek island experience will absolutely love a visit to Amorgos.
Thasos
Thasos is definitely the place to go if you like to have an energetic good time. That’s because there are so many fascinating and exciting activities to participate in on Thasos, the most northern island of Greece. For a start, there are the famous and magnificent beaches that many tourists flock to each year. There are plenty of opportunities for watery activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving – and Thasos is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sites to do them in.
Hydra
Hydra has long been known as one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, with many sites to visit, like Bisti Beach, views from Mount Eros, and Profitis Ilias Monastery. You’ll find it easy to access Hydra, as you can get a ferry directly from Athens. It’s only a 1.5-hour journey. You’ll absolutely love the beautiful views you find on Hydra, with magnificent opportunities for walking and hiking. There aren’t any cars, which is a top reason why many people find it so relaxing.
Corfu
Corfu is one of the most beautiful parts of Greece, famed for its delightful old town architecture. Outside of Old Town, there are many beautiful and charming villages that are also worth visiting, like Pelekas, which is one of the most picturesque villages in Corfu, or Agios Stefanos Avliotes a popular seaside town. You’ll love the absolutely beautiful beaches that you can find on Corfu, like the large sandy Arillas Beach and gorgeous Paleokastritsa Beach. Corfu is a popular place that can get crowded in summer with backpackers and partiers, and it can also be quite expensive during high season.
Gavdos
Gavdos is one of the least well-known of the Greek islands, which can make it a perfect choice for a quiet retreat. It’s one of the smaller Greek islands too, only accessible by ferry, which ensures it is less visited, thus quieter than other islands. Gavdos has a whole host of beautiful beaches and other places to relax. Because of its remote location, it’s very easy to explore the island that’s just 9 kilometers long and 4.5 kilometers wide. There are only a few small villages to see, two of the main ones being Vatsiana in the south, and the capital Kastri.
Agistri
There are many ferries running between the Port of Pireaus (Athens) and Agistri each day. The journey isn’t long, taking just between 1 – 1 1/2 hours. If there’s one thing that Agistri is famed for, it is scuba diving. Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver, or you want to try it for the first time, a trip to Agistri will give you the amazing diving experience that you’re looking for. You’ll definitely want to visit the unique swimming area of Aponisos Beach, with ladders descending into the water.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.