greek islands to visit instead of santorini

10 Magical Greek Islands You Should Visit Instead of Santorini

Don’t get us wrong, we love Santorini . The island is truly unique and mesmerizing. But there is something magical about getting off the beaten track and discovering a new location without the crowds of tourists. Discover 10 underrated islands you should visit on your next vacation.

Part of the Dodecanese island group, Karpathos lies east of Crete . As one of Greece’s best-kept secrets, it boasts an unspoiled nature, with a mountainous inland, fresh water springs, vineyards and lush pine-tree forests. This is also where you may catch sight of the Mediterranean monk seals , an endangered species. Perfect for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts and those looking for relaxation.

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A hidden island between Crete and Karpathos, Kasos may look rugged and barren at first sight, but once you’ve set foot on its soil, the warmth of its residents will make up for its unique landscape. Explore small villages with traditional flair just like Poli or Emporios or settle on the beaches with deep crystal clear waters. The island’s vestiges of the past, with a plethora of churches, monuments and monasteries dotting the land, are true witness of a rich history. Othoni

Just north of Corfu lies one of Greece’s less visited islands, Othoni (sometimes spelled Othonoi). With cobbled streets, stunning beaches, hidden coves and luxuriant vegetation, Othoni is a little Eden where you can swim in turquoise waters, enjoy paradisiac landscapes and enjoy the beauty of nature. Make sure to visit Calypso’s Cave , located near Ammos beach. Legend has it that it was there that Calypso kept Ulysses captive for 7 years.

This small island unknown island to the vast majority of tourists is located in the Cyclades . With less than 300 permanent residents, the island is a wonderland for lovers of nature and beauty. Located between Ios and Folegandros, Sikinos hardly gets crowded during the summer and has a plethora of beaches in its southern side, where you can truly enjoy a relaxing day in the sun. Add to this tasty tavernas and historical sightseeing and you will understand why Sikinos is the best destination if you want to avoid the crowds. Lemnos

Lemnos , or Limnos, in the north of the Aegean Sea, is a hidden paradise which has escaped massive tourism. With its extensive sandy beaches, picturesque villages, quiet inland lakes, powerful waterfalls and unspoiled landscapes, Hephaestus’ homeland welcomes visitors with open arms. Home of the ancient city of Poliochni, thought to be the oldest Neolithic city in Europe, Lemnos is definitely a destination you should discover soon.

Often overlooked as a holiday destination, the Dodecanese archipelago has a plethora of undiscovered islands waiting to be explored. Take for example Leros, nestled between Kos and Samos. It may be one of the few islands where you can still experience traditional Greek island living without the touristy activities. A familiar destination for discerning adventurers, Leros is thought to be the homeland of goddess Artemis.

Located near Naxos, Iraklia is a little underrated paradise where you can enjoy daily beach days, tour boats, and breathtaking beauty. Feast in the local tavernas, enjoy swims in crystal waters and explore the inland. You can also decide to visit the neighboring islands of Amorgos, Schinoussa or Koufonisia, all deserving a visit.

Also in the Dodecanese, Kalymnos is mostly known among divers and climbers. Wild and beautiful, known for its rocky landscapes, its clear waters ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, and for its honey , Kalymnos where you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities in an unaltered environment. It is also the perfect base point to explore nearby islands.

Lihadonisia

Last but not least, Lihadonisia form a beautiful archipelago which is sometimes dubbed the Seychelles of Greece. These littles islands are located in the northern Gulf of Evia , between Kamena Vourla and Evia. Including the inhabited islands of Monolia where you can find an organized beach, Megalo Strongili, Mikri Strongili, Vagia, Voria and Limani, this unique archipelago was created by a huge earthquake long ago and is a paradise for scuba divers. It is also an excellent spot to observe a few seals, who have settled on one of the little islands of the cluster.

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21 Santorini Alternatives: Quiet Greek Islands

Are you curious which are the best Non-Touristy Greek Islands to Visit?

Greece has a staggering 227 islands within its boarders, and while you may have heard of huge tourist-driven islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu, here are 21 islands that you may not have heard of before. Of course, Santorini is a beautiful island, but it is too hyped and too crowded with tourists. When you're there, you feel like you're not on an island, but on a bustling avenue in a big city, and you have to stand in a long line to get your picture taken against a beautiful view.

It's important to recognize that overtourism has negative consequences that extend beyond just the visitors themselves. The popular Greek islands, which attract a lot of tourists, are particularly vulnerable to this issue. The environment suffers as a result, and locals find themselves facing excessive increases in home prices. To combat overtourism, the Greek National Tourism Organization is urging tourists to explore other destinations beyond the well-known islands like Santorini . This can help ensure that local communities are not negatively impacted by an influx of visitors.

Throughout this list, we’ll share why these non-touristy islands are great Santorini alternatives and worth visiting, where its located in Greece, if there is an airport on the island, and how long it takes to get to by ferry from Athens (Pireus Port).

Stop following the crowd and mass tourism, discover less touristy places.

And remember, less touristy places don't mean less beautiful or less interesting. In fact, it is on these lesser-known Greek islands that real adventure and mind-blowing nature await you.

21 Best Non-Touristy & Quiet Greek Islands

1 - koufonisia.

Koufonisia is a great starting point for your Greek islands hopping adventure. Koufonisia is an archipelago of two small islands in the Aegean Sea, located between Naxos and Amorgos. This enchanting island is ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway away from the touristy parts of the Greek islands. Kato Koufonisi doesn't even have roads.

You have to take a boat to the island and then hike to the secluded beaches. You can book a boat tour (or rent your own boat) and explore the island's turquoise coves, fishing villages, and beautiful coastline.

Location - The Cyclades
Closest Airport - Naxos Airport Apollon
Ferry from Athens - 8 hours

2 - Donaousa

Donoussa is the perfect destination for a relaxing Greek island escape. With only 150 permanent residents, this small island has managed to remain free of mass tourism and maintains a tranquil atmosphere. The highlight here is the quaint beach town at Danoussa Port, along with Stavros Beach and its crystal-clear blue waters, white sand, and breathtaking views.

The island is only 4 kilometers across, so you can hike to all the most beautiful places, including Kedros Beach, Livadi Beach, and the nearly uninhabited traditional village of Mersini.

Ferry from Athens - 7 hours

NEA MAKRI & MARATHON BEACHES NEAR ATHENS

3 - Iraklia

Iraklia, located between Naxos and Ios, is the perfect place to find some peace and quiet. The island is one of the least populated islands in Greece, consisting of mostly undeveloped land. This is partially what makes the islands such a great place to visit. Iraklia is full of untouched beaches and rugged mountains great for nature lovers. Hiking trails are also abundant, so it's perfect for nature lovers who want to explore the landscape. The most popular places to hike to are the Cave of Saint John, the castle of Livadi Beach, and Papas Hill summit for panoramic views of the island.

Ferry from Athens - 7.5 hours

Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, is a great destination for those looking to explore Greek culture and rich history. The city center, Ermoupoli, is full of beautiful neoclassical architecture and colorful streets filled with restaurants, cafes, galleries and shops. Despite being the administrative hub of the Cyclades islands, Syros remains relatively undiscovered by tourists making it an ideal destination for a quiet and peaceful getaway.

Closest Airport - Syros Island National Airport
Ferry from Athens - 3 hours

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands, but still has significantly less tourists than other islands in the Aegean Sea.

The island is known for its ‘Chora’, a quaint town filled with neoclassical buildings, dozens of churches and monasteries, narrow cobblestone streets, and an impressive Venetian castle.

You can also admire the ruins of the Apollo Temple and the Byzantine Footpath. Since this is a big island, most people find that renting a car in Naxos is the best way to get around.

If you are not an experienced driver, you can always opt for a bus tour of Naxos .

Ferry from Athens - 4 hours

6 - Folegandros

Folegandros is a small and quiet island that remains relatively undiscovered by mainstream travel. The highlight here is the beautiful Chora (which remains pedestrian only) and the iconic Church of Panagia, which sits on top of an epic cliff stretching out over the ocean. Staying true to its Cycladic geography, you will also find Venetian churches, whitewashed alleys, and great beaches in Folegandros.

Closest Airport - Paros National Airport
Ferry from Athens - 4.5 hours

7 - Samothraki

Samothraki is a somewhat untraditional island in the northern part of the Aegean Sea. The island's natural landscape includes breathtaking mountains, gorges, waterfalls, and beaches. The most popular thing to do here is hiking and camping, but you can also explore ancient Greek ruins and the port of Kamariotissa, which has lots of tavernas and guesthouses.

Location - The North Aegean Islands
Closest Airport - Samothraki National Airport
Ferry from Athens - *Not Available* - You much take a 2 hour ferry from Alexandroupoli

8 - Kythira

With pristine natural landscapes, tons of monasteries, and charming traditional villages, Kythira is a great choice if you are looking for a quiet and secluded island in Greece. This island is located just off the coast of the Peloponese Peninsula, and is an exceptionally lush island to visit for hiking, and has a rich history to learn about. Be sure to explore some of the islands hidden gems such as the Byzantine Chapel of Agia Moni and the Venetian Castle of Chora.

Location - The Ionian Islands
Closest Airport - Kythira Airport Alexandros Onasis
Ferry from Athens - 6.5 hours

Paros is a great place for a tranquil getaway in Greece. It’s a little more lively than the rest of the islands on this list, and mimics the cosmopolitan feel of Mykonos, but doesn’t feel oversaturated by tourists.

This is a great ‘in-between’ island for travelers who like to have a bit of structure for tourism, but without the insane crowds.

Paros in Greece is an absolute gem waiting to be explored. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or go on an adventure, there are tons of amazing things to do in Paros . Take a stroll through the streets of Naoussa and soak up the lively atmosphere, or visit the ancient temple of Asclepius and learn about the island's rich history.

And of course, no visit to Paros would be complete without experiencing the crystal-clear waters of Kolymbithres beach, near the seaside village of Naoussa. There are also plenty other beaches around the island with mesmerizing turquoise waters. Since you can rent a car in Paros and circumnavigate this island in about an hour, it’s easy to see the whole island in just a couple of days!

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with Paros.

Ferry from Athens - 4 hours

10 - Ithaca

Ithaca is a small and tranquil island in the Ionian Sea and is home to some of Greece's most stunning bays and beaches. It’s widely known as the home of Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey and even has the ruins of a Mycenean Palace that some believe to be the ancient site of Homer’s School. You should also take the time to indulge in the local taverns and shops of Vathy (main town) as well as visit the island's hidden gems, such as the Monastery of Katharon or the nearby islet of Lazaretto.

Closest Airport - Kefalonia National Airport
Ferry from Patras - 4 hours (3.5 hours to Kefalonia, then 30 minutes to Ithaca

11 - Karaphthos

Karaphthos is a remote island in the Dodecanese archipelago, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and traditional architecture. The islands is also full of bar mountains with small traditional villages, similar to the more remote areas of Crete. The best village to visit is Olympos, where you can experience local Greek life and see the church of the Holy Virgin (Panagia). The best beaches in Karaphthose are Apella Beach, Kyra Panagia, and Agios Minas.

Location - The Dodecanese Islands
Closest Airport - Karpathos National Airport
Ferry from Athens - 13-16 hours

There is a peaceful atmosphere on this tranquil Greek island

Tilos is a small and tranquil island located in the Dodecanese archipelago between Kos and Rhodes and home to just 750 people. The island is a slow, charming place to spend a few days off the beacten path in Greece. Similar to most greek islands, you will find untouched beauty with its rugged mountains, lush vegetation, crystal-clear waters, and stunning beaches. Highlights here include wandering through Megalo Chorio village, exploring the deserted village of Mikro Chorio, and the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon.

Closest Airport - Rhodes International Airport Diagoras
Ferry from Rhodes - 2 hours

13 - Schrnoussa

Schrnoussa is another quiet island, located in the Cyclades region of Greece just south of Naxos. The island has wonderful beaches to visit and traditional architecture throughout its villages. Some of the best things to do in Schrnoussa include snorkeling, sunbathing at Tsigouri Beach, hiking, and tasting the famous ‘Fava beans.’

Closest Airport - Naxos National Airport Apollon

14 - Kefalonia

Kefalonia is probably the most well-known island on this list, but has just a fraction of th etourists that other islands see. Plus, the island is so large that it’s easy to escape the crowds.

Located in the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia is known for its stunning beaches, traditional villages, and lush mountains with dramatic cliffs. Be sure to explore the Melissni Cave Lake, Myrtos BEach, Assos Village, and the seafood restaurants in Fiskardo.

Kefalonia is a treasure trove of natural attractions, and there are tons of exciting things to do in Kefalonia . The Melissani Cave, shrouded in myth and mystery, is an absolute must-visit. Take a trip to the highest peak, Mount Aenos, for breathtaking views of the island. Another spot worth checking out is Assos Village, a picturesque hamlet nestled in the midst of towering hills. And if you're in the mood for some beach time, head over to Myrtos Beach, touted as one of the best beaches in Greece. The beach is flanked by two mountains, Kalon Oros and Agia Dynati, and is a feast for the eyes with its lush green slopes cascading down to the marble pebble beach. Sun loungers are available for rent, so you can soak up the sun in comfort.

Closest Airport - Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou
Ferry from Patra - 3.5 hours

15 - Amorgos

Amorgos is located in the Cyclades archipelago and is not necessarily the most awe-inspiring island, but rather a quaint charming Greek island with a lot of local culture and rich history to enjoy. There are a number of beaches worth visiting, whitewashed alleys, and delicious tavernas, and easygoing villages to see. And be sure to hike up to the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa.

16 - Skiathos

Skiathos is a small and vibrant island located in the Sporades archipelago.

There are tons of amazing places to see on Skiathos Island : Lalaria Beach and Koukounaries Beach are one of the most stunning coastlines in all of Greece, and hiking in Kastro is magical.

The island is very easy to get to because it has its own International Airport, and its alos a great plae to rent a boat or a jeep for the day and explore the rugged natural landscape.

Location - The Sporades Islands
Closest Airport - Skiathos National Airport
Ferry from Volos - 2 hours

Just a few kilometers from the larger, more touristy island of Rhodes is the tiny island of Halki. Halki has a similar landscape and feel to Tilos Island, but is even more secluded and peaceful. As you might expect, the best things to do are meander through traditional villages, boat rides to secluded coves, and great food, but you should also check out the midieval castle of Meseoniko Kastro.

Closest Airport - Rhodes National Airport
Ferry from Athens - 19 hours (Ferry from Rhodes is just 1 hour)

18 - Kimilos

Kimilos is the small, untouched neighbor island of Milos in the western Cycladic region of the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its wild volcanic landscapes with bizarre rock formations and jagged cliffs. If you’re spending a couple of days on Kimilos, makes sure to visit the Rema Beach, Therma Beach, and the town even has a small Archaeological Musuen and a Folk and Maritime Museum. Travelers and locals also love taking a boat ride to the nearby islet of Polyaigos to see more beautiful coves and coastal caves.

Location - The Cyclades Islands
Closest Airport - Milos Airport

19 - Lemnos

Lemnos is known in Greek Mythology as Hephaestus Island (the God of Fire), reflecting is rocky volcanic landscape.

Three are lots of cool archaeological sits in Lemnos, including the Ancient Ifestia, Temple of Kavirio, and the Kastro van Myrina. Of course, you can also find great greek food and stunning beaches in Lemnos.

If you're looking for authentic Greek cuisine, Lemnos is definitely worth a visit. The local food there is truly delicious and will give you a taste of the authentic flavors of Greece.

In Lemnos, there are plenty of traditional Greek taverns such as Opos Palia or Kosmos Taverna where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine that predominantly features fish and seafood. However, even if you are a vegan in Greece , you need not worry as there are plenty of options available to cater to your dietary preferences. You can enjoy a variety of healthy and flavorful options such as salads, hummus, beans, and pasta.

Closest Airport - Lemnos International Airport “Hephaestus”
Ferry from Athens - 22 hours (Ferry from Thessaloniki is 5.5 hours)

The final quiet and non-touristy island on this list is the small, arid island of Anafi in the Cycladic region, just west of the ever-popular, Santorini. Anafi offers travelers a nearly untouched atmosphere with crystal-clear waters, traditional architecture, and stunning beaches (some are even sandy beaches). Other highlights to see include the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa, the Ancient city of Anafi and Drakontospito Cave.

Closest Airport - Santorini National Airport
Ferry from Athens - 7.5 hours (6 hours to Santorini, then 1.5 hours from Santorini to Anafi)

Final Thoughts: Best Non-Touristy Greek Islands

With its wealth of secluded coves, traditional villages, vibrant nightlife scenes, and stunning beaches; these 22 Best Non-Touristy Greek Islands offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking for an untouched paradise or a vibrant destination; make sure to check out one (or all!) of these islands during

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7 Amazing Alternatives To Santorini

From the lesser-known islands of Tinos, Paros and Andros, to the ever-popular Mykonos and Rhodes, these Greek islands are perfect alternatives to Santorini.

So, you’ve been thinking of visiting Santorini in Greece, but something is putting you off? Maybe it’s the hugely inflated prices for hotels or restaurants? Or, perhaps you’ve seen photos of the summer crowds and thought it all looks a bit too hectic?

While Santorini is an extremely beautiful and photogenic destination for a holiday, there are other Greek islands that offer just as much. Santorini is famed for its beautiful beaches, charming and characterful villages, and lively nightlife. But do you know what? So are some of the nearby islands! And being a lot less popular, they don’t suffer from over-tourism or sky high prices.

If you’ve had Santorini on your must-visit list, it’s probably for a few of these reasons:

Epic volcanic landscapes
Charming villages and pretty whitewashed towns
Stunning sunsets
Unique beaches with red and black sand
Tasty Mediterranean cuisine and local Assyrtiko wine
Ancient ruins and historical sites

However, if you switch Santorini for one of these options, you’re guaranteed to get a lovely dose of authentic Greek hospitality. On some of the less popular islands such as Tinos and Paros, you’ll see that the big brands haven’t taken over! You can still enjoy delicious local dishes in a quintessentially Greek taverna or laze by the pool in a boutique hotel.

So, if you’re looking for a beautiful island in Greece that’s a genuine stand-in for Santorini, here are my top recommendations.

Before you leave, don’t forget to have a thorough read of my Greece packing list . There are lots of tips on what to wear in Greece, whether your trip is taking you to the islands or the mainland.

7 Best Alternatives To Santorini: Greek Islands

Did you know that the island of Tinos also belongs to the Cyclades Islands? But, unlike Santorini or its next door neighbour Mykonos, in Tinos you won’t battle with bustling crowds. Tinos has retained much of its original charm and natural beauty. It’s just 20-minutes by boat from Mykonos, so it’s an easy one to reach if you’re looking for islands with airports close by.

I really enjoyed exploring this island. It felt wild and natural, with a lovely ambience. The locals were super friendly and helpful too, and prices were definitely lower than some of the other Greek islands I’ve visited.

Some of my favourite spots in Tinos included the mountain villages of Kardiani and Pyrgos, the delicious fresh seafood restaurants in Panormos and the vineyards in wild and rocky Volax.

The relaxed ambiance in Tinos makes it ideal for couples planning a Greek island getaway. I’d recommend hiring a car to really make the most of your time on the island.

If you want some help planning your trip, I’d recommend reading my Tinos travel guide .

If you’re looking for pretty whitewashed buildings and skinny cobbled streets just like Santorini, you’ll be happy to hear that Andros has those in abundance. But, it also has an utterly surprising side too!

This island is known for being the lushest among the Cyclades Islands. It boasts natural springs and rivers, which really sets it apart from the typical scenery you see on the Greek islands. I bet Santorini is jealous now!

After my trip to Andros, I nicknamed it the ‘adventure island’. There were lots of cool activities on offer, my favourite being the river trek. As we adventured through lush forests, we reached a few amazing waterfalls. I’d worked up quite a sweat so I couldn’t resist having a refreshing waterfall swim.

River trekking is one of the most popular activities in Andros

The capital Chora is located on a pretty peninsula, surrounded by the vivid turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. There’s also a famous lighthouse perched on a rock out in the sea. You’ll be able to spot it from the water’s edge, but we also loved the little boat trip we did to see it close up.

While Santorini offers easy access via its airport, you can hop on a ferry from Rafina Port in Athens to Andros, and reach the island in a couple of hours.

Rhodes is one of the most popular of the Greek islands. While I wouldn’t offer it as an alternative to Santorini if you’re looking to escape the crowds, it does tend to be more budget-friendly and better for families.

Many visit Santorini for its amazing and varied history, but Rhodes offers more! Once home to the awe-inspiring Colossus of Rhodes, a marvel of the Ancient World, I’d recommend going on an island tour to soak up the historical details.

I’d also suggest a trip to the Acropolis in Lindos , which was founded by Dorians in the 10th century B.C. The history will blow your mind! The spectacular temple dedicated to Athena Lindia, dates all the way back to 4 B.C. How incredible is that?

While it’s very different to the likes of Oia or Fira, Rhodes Old Town is a stunning example of a Medieval city, so much so that it’s earned UNESCO World Heritage Site certification.

If you’re searching for alternatives to Santorini for a luxury break, I’d recommend looking at hotels such as the Ixian Grand . This 5-star all-inclusive hotel offers privacy, chic suites and fine-dining options. I loved our private plunge pool and relaxation area – it was so luxurious!

Relaxing on our private deck at Ixian Grand Rhodes

For more reasons why Rhodes is a great alternative to Santorini, I’d recommend reading my guide to the top things to do in Rhodes .

Paros is one of the most enchanting of the Cyclades Islands. It’s growing in popularity, but not to the levels of Santorini! It’s known for its verdant mountains, cliff-top villages, and sandy beaches.

And wow are the beaches in Paros special! With shimmering, clear waters and warm golden sand, they might have you fooled that you’ve reached the Caribbean! If you’re into water sports, it’s a great island to visit too, as it has some of the best conditions for windsurfing and kite surfing in the Greek islands.

It’s a popular island for young couples, but it’s not got the crazy nightlife of Mykonos or Santorini. If you like to be in the action, I’d recommend staying in Parikia or Naoussa. They’re home to plenty of pretty restaurants serving authentic Greek cuisine.

Or, for a break from the busier areas, I’d recommend visiting the island’s traditional villages such as Lefkes and Marpissa. Santorini’s cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings bring a lot of charm, but you’ll find all of that on Paros too!

Milos is a bit of a hidden gem in the Aegean and makes a great alternative to Santorini. Holidays in Milos offer a more intimate and authentic Greek experience, without sacrificing the charm you’re longing for.

As with Santorini, you’ll find lots of unique views. In fact, Milos is known for its diverse landscapes, with beaches like Sarakiniko which is almost like a moonscape of white rocks contrasting azure waters! It’s stunning.

There’s plenty for history lovers too, including the island’s catacombs and ancient Greek theatres. If you’re looking for a day out, I’d recommend a boat trip to see the Kleftiko Caves. This former pirate hideout is an incredible network of sea caves and tunnels, carved by the immense power of the sea.

For a dose of traditional life in Milos, don’t miss Firopotamos Village. This charming fishing village is home to colourful boathouses and a picturesque waterfront. It’s somewhere you’ll get to really get under the skin of the island, and see how the locals spend their days.

Along with Santorini, Mykonos is known as one of the best Greek islands for honeymoons . With its chic restaurants and numerous luxury hotels , you won’t find you save money by switching a trip to Santorini for Mykonos, but your experience will be a little different.

Compared to Santorini, Mykonos has a greater reputation for partying and nightlife. It tends to attract a slightly younger crowd and is one of the best Greek islands for young couples .

Both islands are famed for their windmills, but you’ll see sights like this one in Mykonos – an iconic image of the island!

If you’re trying to steer clear of the crowds, I’d recommend looking at areas such as Agios Ioannis, Agios Stefanos, Ornos, Ano Mera and Agia Anna. You’ll still find an authentic Greek charm in a lot of areas, but there are a lot more tourist traps in and around the built up areas of Oia and Fira.

The perfect island for a honeymoon - Mykonos, Greece

If you’ve already visited Santorini and loved it, I’d say Mykonos is a great place to visit next. However, if you’re looking for alternatives to Santorini because you found it too hectic, I’d pick one of the other suggestions on my list!

Tucked away in the Dodecanese Islands, Karpathos is a cheeky alternative to the overhyped Santorini. It’s a bit of a chill haven for lovebirds to escape the daily hustle and bustle of the busier islands.

It’s nestled gracefully between Rhodes and Crete, in the Aegean Sea. It’s definitely managed to dodge the concrete jungle fate of some of the larger islands too. On this island, beaches hide like secrets, and villages cling to hillsides like your grandma to her ancient recipes!

It’s famed for its stunning beaches. I mean, just look at these photos! It’s also got some of the best shipwrecks nearby, making it popular with SCUBA divers too. If you want to get off the beaten track, you’ll find some of the best deserted beaches and wild natural landscapes in the south of the island.

I hope this has given you plenty of ideas of where to visit instead of Santorini. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your time in Greece don’t miss my Greece travel blogs , which include these posts:

The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: Athens, Greek Island Hopping & More
The Ultimate Greece Honeymoon Itinerary
9 Best Greek Islands For Couples To Visit
What To Wear In Greece For Women And Men: Greece Packing List
Best Honeymoon Hotels In Mykonos
The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini
How To Spend The Ultimate Weekend In Athens
15 Amazing Things To Do In Tinos, Greece
9 Best Luxury And Boutique Hotels In Crete, Greece

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “7 Amazing Alternatives To Santorini”

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4 Greek Islands That Are Excellent Alternatives To Santorini

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S antorini is worldwide famous for its sunsets. But if you have already visited the island and want to see another island in the same vein, you will find other destinations in Greece that will steal your heart. What if we told you that some alternatives to Santorini are equally beautiful, picturesque, and romantic? Keep reading, and you will learn about 4 outstanding options for Santorini.

Milos is located in the southwestern Cyclades and is a top alternative to Santorini, as it has many similarities. The island has equally volcanic activity, which means it has rich mineral wealth, mysterious rock formations, and moon-like landscapes. The most famous of these is Sarakiniko beach, where the rocks around the beach are reminiscent of a lunar landscape.

Apart from the volcanic activity, the island strongly exudes the element of romance, making it an excellent alternative to Santorini. Walk through the picturesque cobbled streets of Plaka, be enchanted by the smell of bougainvillea wafting in the air, and enjoy your coffee with a stunning view of the Aegean Sea.

In Milos, you will also find places to enjoy the sunset. The most famous sunset spots on the island are the little fisherman’s village Klima with colorful houses and the church of Panagia Theotokou in Plaka.

Extra tip : For instagrammable shots, don’t miss the windmills over Trivasalo.

☞ Related: The Best Things To Do In Milos For Summer

Close to Milos is another island that is an excellent alternative to Santorini. Sifnos belongs to the Western Cyclades complex and is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to combine natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

Wander through the alleys of Chora, enjoy your meal in one of the picturesque taverns of Artemonas and admire the view of the Monastery of Chrysopigi. One of the island’s significant must-sees is the Kastro settlement, built over the ruins of ancient Sifnos. There is the church of the Seven Martyrs, which stands imposingly on a rock. It is worth walking up the steps and enjoying the spectacular sunset there.

At the same time, there is a chance for wine tourism in Sifnos. The Votsaris Winery is waiting to show you around the area and the flavors of the local wines.

☞ Related: 20 Mind-Blowingly Interesting Facts About Santorini

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Kythira is located in the southernmost part of the Ionian Sea. This small island is dominated by various architectural elements of the Venetian and Byzantine periods combined with the characteristic white and blue architecture. Kythira is not part of the Cyclades complex, yet this little island is an excellent alternative to Santorini. The reason is the countless natural beauties of the island combined with the slow-living lifestyle .

Chora of Kythira is the perfect choice for a stroll through the alleys without the crowds that one encounters in the paths of Oia, while the island’s countless crystal clear beaches entice visitors. For lovers of the Cyclades, a must-visit is the traditional settlement of Aroniadika, where the white and blue backdrop of the Cyclades dominates and is the perfect choice for walks at dusk. Furthermore, for extra romance, the picturesque village of Avlemonas is built around a bay reminiscent of Scandinavian fjords and is the perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

Kythira could not be a worthy substitute for Santorini without stunning sunset spots. One of these is the Lighthouse of Moudari, which was built in 1857, and is one of the world’s most beautiful sunset spots. The Castle of Kythera, which once served to protect the island from pirates, is now a stunning spot to enjoy the sunset.

The most famous attraction of Astypalaia is the Venetian Castle, which has stood above Chora since the 13th century. The Castle is the perfect sunset spot for locals and visitors to the island. The ideal time to visit the Castle is early afternoon to wander around its walls and enjoy the sun diving into the Aegean Sea. Many bars and restaurants offer local cuisine in the area of Kastro.

An extra tip for Instagram lovers is the windmills of Astypalaia. The 8 windmills are located in the central square of Chora and are an incredibly stylish choice for your Instagram feed.

☞ Related: The 4 Real Reasons Behind Why Greece Has White Houses

The beauty of Santorini is known worldwide and is undeniable to everyone. But Greece is not just this. Alternatively, you can admire a stunning sunset in Milos, eat unique local delicacies in Sifnos, swim in the crystal clear waters of Kythira, and wander around the Venetian castle of Astypalaia.

On which of these islands would you like to spend your following holidays? Let us know in the comments below.

*Disclaimer: This page includes affiliate links. If you decide to book something through one of them, I might get a little bonus, but it won't cost you anything extra.*

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5 Alternatives to Santorini

After I wrote my post, Why I Didn’t Love Santorini , many people ask what islands they should visit instead. So I am giving you my five alternatives to Santorini.

A few of these islands are close to Santorini , and a few are closer to Athens. Each of them has comparisons to Santorini in some way and all of them are less expensive than Santorini, Greece. You could visit one of these islands or go island hopping between a few of them.

Paros is one of the larger Cycladic Islands and is accessible by ferry daily from Piraeus port in Athens. Do not confuse it with Poros, which is an island close to Athens.

There is something for everyone on Paros. You can visit historic sites, get a tan on the beach, or go windsurfing! It is a great alternative to Santorini because the villages have a similar style, and since the main village, Parikia, is flat, it is more accessible than Oia on Santorini.

Things to See and Do on Paros

Visit Panayia Ekatondapiliani Cathedral – This is also known as the church with 100 doors. It is very beautiful and there are tons to see.
Old Port of Naoussa – This is one of those iconic Greek places where cafe tables meet the sea!
Wander Parikia Town – This is one of the most beautiful towns on the islands I have seen. Tons of shops and restaurants to see as well.
Go Windsurfing – For the more adventurous, Paros has lots of wind, making it a top spot for windsurfing.
Visit Golden Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches on the island and it is large. You might even be able to see the windsurfers from here.

Paros Hotel Recommendations

Parikia – Check out the Argonauta Hotel right in the town center with great access to everything. Click here to check prices.

Naousa – Hotel Liprando lovely hotel is in the center of Naousa and is comfortable and convenient. Click here to check prices.

Right next to Paros is Naxos , the largest of the Cycladic Islands. Naxos has tons of beautiful beaches . It is also extremely family-friendly. You can fly to Naxos as well as take the ferry.

Book a day sailing trip from Naxos here.

I like Naxos better than Santorini because it is also flat at the port, and the Chora is right next to a great beach. This means you don’t have to walk far for dinner or rent a car. There are also some amazing restaurants in Naxos, so you will never lack for great food.

Things to See and Do in Naxos

Visit the Kastro – Located right in the Chora, the 13th-century Kastro is an ancient castle with three gates. Two of those gates are still in existence. The Kastro has several things to see inside, including the Archaeological Museum.
See the Temple of Apollo—This is hard to miss as it sits near the port’s entrance. Walking out to it is easy and offers great views of the sea.
Take a Dip at Agios Prokopios Beach – This great beach is right next to the Chora and has plenty of cafes and bars to hang out in as well.
Go to the Eggares Olive Press Museum – The olive tree and oil are a very important part of Greek life. This covers the whole operation of the press operation.
Take a Day Sail – Spend the day on the water and visit places only reachable by boat. Book your day sail here !

Naxos Town – Ippokampos Hotel is right on the beach and also offers easy access to Naxos Town. Click here to check prices.

Plaka Beach – Located at the quiet end of a stunning beach, Plaza Beach Hotel is a great option. Click here to check prices.

Ios is close to Santorini and in my opinion, has the better sunset! The Chora is up on a hill just like Santorini but without the volcano.

Ios has 75km of beaches and is the island to visit if you are wanting to party or even if you are not. Given that parts of the activities are geared to young people, it makes much of the accommodation more affordable than Santorini.

Is Santorini still on your list? Buy my Santorini Itineraries – 1, 3, and 5 Day Guides to make the most of your trip!

Things to see and do in ios.

Explore Skarkos – This is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the Cyclades. You can see some artifacts from Skarkos in the Archaeology Museum in the Chora.
Visit Managanari Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. You can take a bus for the day to the stunning beach.
Eat at Octopus Tree – This tiny port restaurant has some of the best Greek food on Ios. I recommend the fried zucchini fritters. Here is my list of all the best places to eat in Ios .
Watch the Sunset from the Liostasi Hotel – The sunset in Ios is stunning and due to its unobstructed views, the Liostatsi is one of the best places to see it. You don’t have to be staying there, just order a drink from their bar.
Visit Homer’s Tomb – Homer the poet is supposedly buried on Ios. It is a drive, but worth visiting. The view from here is amazing.

Near the port – Kritkikakis Village Hotel is one of my favorite hotels in Greece. The staff are friendly and the rooms are comfortable. Click here to check prices.

Near the Chora – This luxury hotel offers amazing views of the sunset and a great pool. Click here to check prices.

Kea is a great alternative to Santorini which is close to Athens. It is also great if you want a less touristy option as it is mostly Athenians that come here. You could come to Kea on a day trip if you wanted to as well.

The hilltop village is white and blue like Santorini and offers great views of the island.

Things to See and Do in Kea

See the Lion of Kea – Located in the hilltop village of Ioulis is a Lion sculpture. It was carved before 600 BC.
Visit the Archaeology Museum – Also in the village of Ioulis is a small but great museum. The pottery has feminine features and I have never seen anything like them before.
Go Scuba Diving – This is one of the few islands that have seen with a dive shop. The waters here were calm making it a great place to dive.
Hike to Ancient Karthea – This is a long hike but worth it to see the site and go swimming after.
Eat at Bourkarion – This family-owned restaurant is located in the village of Vourkari, which is just down from the port of Korissa.

Kea does not have tons of hotel options but the ones they do have are wonderful, including the Porto Kea Suites. Click here to check prices.

Kythnos is also not far from Athens and is another great alternative to Santorini. The island is not too big, but if you really want to explore you will need a car as some of the best places to eat are not in the port. Kythnos still has some of the best food I have eaten in Greece.

It is also great as it is not crowded and much more affordable than Santorini.

Things to See and Do in Kythnos

Take a Dip in the Thermal Springs – In the village of Loutra right in the sea is a thermal spring.
Eat Mussels at Sofrano – Also in the village of Loutra is the great restaurant of Sofrano which has some of the best mussels I have ever had in my life.
Visit the hilltop Chora – This is one of the most charming white and blue villages and reminded me most of Oia in Santorini.
Swim at Kolona Bay – This two-sided bay offers great swimming and a stunning view of the surrounding island. There is a narrow strip of beach to relax on, but it is never crowded.
Visit Katafiki Cave – This is one of the largest caves in Greece. It was a mine and is now a tourist attraction.

Loutra – The beautiful Kythnos Bay Hotel is right on the beach! Click here to check prices.

At the port – Kontseta is right at the port and offers great access to restaurants. Click here to check prices.

I would never tell you not to visit Santorini, but it is expensive and is very crowded in the high season. If you are only going to Greece once, then visit Santorini for a day or two and then visit one of these great alternatives. There are over 200 islands in Greece, so you have plenty to choose from!

Still, planning on visiting Santorini? Check out my ebook, Santorini Itineraries – 1, 3, and 5 Day Guides.

Do you have favorite Greek islands that are alternatives to Santorini? Share with us in the comments!

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These are all such beautiful places! I love the sound of Kythnos with the thermal springs and caves and bays. The photo is gorgeous too, greek buildings with that colour scheme always look lovely.

Sammy | http://seekingsammy.com

I totally agree. Kythnos is a hidden gem. Thanks! Greece is so photogenic.

Wow, 200 islands! Thank you, Tiffany, for helping to narrow the choices down. It all sounds wonderful, especially the food!

And those are just the inhabited ones!! The food is one of the best things about Greece.

Wow you’ve seen so much of Greece. I’ve only been to Rhodes, which I love (as long as you avoid the tacky tourist areas. We hired a scooter and drove all over the island and saw every corner of it. My highlights being the open air, butterfly sanctuary in the middle of the Island, which was just stunning. And the small monestry which you had to climb to at the top of a verrrrry big hill. Amazing views up there.

I did a sailing trip two years ago and we visited 14 islands! Then last year I spent over a month in Greece. I love it. Rhodes is on my list!

We may have another opportunity to see more of Greece, so thanks Tiffany I shall refer to this list when we are deciding where to go!

Yay! Let me know where you end up. I have been on the lookout for housesits there but there haven’t been to many lately.

Thank you so much for this informative post. i would rather travel to one of these islands with lower prices and fewer people.

You are so welcome!

Kea sounds lovely to me I don’t like touristy places and unfortunately, I haven’t visited any of those 22o islands but your images are lovely and I have a good imagination …Armchair holidays are not quite the same but lovely 🙂

Kea is wonderful! I hope you get to go one day.

Kythnos was really wonderful. I like Katafiki Cave. Awesome place to visit.

I didn’t make it there! I will have to go back.

[…] dream of going to a Greek Island and soaking up the sun while sipping ouzo, but how did you get to those beautiful islands you dream […]

[…] example, my first sailing trip was Athens, Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Sifnos, and Ios. The return was Ios, Paros, Syros, Delos, Kea, and Kythnos. This trip was great since we got to see both the Saronic and […]

[…] However, it should be noted that with its increasing popularity (and the resulting crowds), there are many reasons to consider visiting some alternative—and equally lovely—romantic destinations in Greece. […]

[…] go back, and I will love it, but for now, I will visit the quieter Greek islands. There are several Santorini alternatives that I recommend in the […]

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5 stunning, budget friendly islands to visit in Greece that are not Santorini

In the past few years, the country of Greece has seen a surge in its tourist activity. People from all around the world are visiting the country to witness its exotic landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and myth-laden ancient sites. While Athens and Santorini remain some of the top spots, our curated list takes you to some budget-friendly islands in Greece that are worthy of a visit.

Greece has over 6,000 islands and each one, with its rich diverse cuisine and breathtaking sights, has something magical about it. But, how does one find an island that is not overcrowded and super expensive during this time of the year? We have curated a list of the most affordable Greek islands to visit this summer and what each one has to offer. From secluded, romantic beaches and nightlife spots to culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone in these Greek isles.

Here are 5 budget-friendly islands in Greece that you need to visit:

Naxos: The largest, most peaceful Cyclade

Santorini and Mykonos are two of the most popular Cyclades in Greece, which results in them being the most expensive and flooded with tourists all year long. Naxos, with its artisanal gastronomy and world-class museums, is an affordable alternative to these islands. The largest of all Cyclades in Greece, Naxos is known best for its delicious seafood and hospitable locals. Some of the famous dishes of Naxos are Garides Sakanaki (shrimps served with tomato sauce and feta cheese), Kitron ( a citrus-based liquor), and Sefoukloti (spinach pie). The gastronomical advantage makes it one of our favourite budget-friendly islands in Greece to visit this summer. Places to visit: The Temple of Apollo, Plaka Beach, The Archaeological Museum

Lefkada: The Caribbean of Greece

This island, located on the west coast of the country, is known as the ‘ Caribbean of Greece’. With 22 beaches, Lefkada offers impressive landscapes and avenues for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. It is also one of the most affordable places in Greece and serves as an excellent detour from the more crowded islands. The Rachi restaurant, in the Exanthia village of Lefkada, is the perfect place for spending a relaxing evening and watching the sunset. This rustic eatery offers an iconic view of the Ionian Sea and serves Traditional, local foods, and wine. Places to visit: Dimosari Waterfalls, Egremni Beach, Port Katsiki, Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni

Crete: Rich heritage and richer cuisine

Home to vibrant streets, pristine beaches, and buzzing cafes, Crete is the largest island in Greece. Its rich heritage and Venetian influence make it the perfect destination for those interested in learning about history and culture. Tourists can walk around the seaside city of Chania, soak up the sun on the Elafonissi beach, and marvel at the Venetian ruins in Frangokastello. Places to visit: The Venetian Harbour of Heraklion, Palace Of Knossos, Samariá Gorge National Park

Angistri: Water sports and serene beaches

An hour away from the city of Athens, the island of Angistri is the perfect getaway from the hustle-bustle of the capital. Known for its tranquil beaches and natural beauty, it is the ideal spot for water sports like surfing and kayaking. Tourists can take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Aponisos beach or go Skuba diving and snorkelling in Megalochori. It’s light on the pocket but heavy on the views, thereby earning a spot on our top budget-friendly islands in Greece. Places to visit: Megalochori, Skala Beach, The Church of Agioi Anargyroi

Chios: Rustic island immersed in the culture

The island of Chios, situated in the north of the Aegean Sea, is famous for its exquisite landscapes and local products. Its rich culture and heritage attract people from all around the world, who are left in awe of its local vine galleries and handmade gifts. The influence of Mastiha culture and traditional Mastiha cultivation reflects in the day-to day-life of Chios. Tourists can enjoy the island’s famous drink, called Soumada, and enjoy the traditional pies and onion stew. Places to visit: Mirsinidi Beach, Mavros Gialos Beach, Chios Mastiha Museum

All Images: Courtesy Shutterstock.

Lakshita Sharma

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Forget Santorini And Visit These 5 Other Amazing Islands In Greece Instead

The country of Greece has seen a surge in its tourist activity in recent years. People from all around the world are visiting the country to witness its exotic landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and myth-laden ancient sites . While Athens and Santorini remain some of the top spots, our curated list takes you to some other incredible and budget-friendly islands in Greece that are worthy of a visit.

Here are 5 incredible yet budget-friendly islands in Greece:

Naxos: The largest, most peaceful Cyclade

Places to visit: The Temple of Apollo, Plaka Beach, The Archaeological Museum

Lefkada: The Caribbean of Greece

Places to visit: Dimosari Waterfalls, Egremni Beach, Port Katsiki, Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni

Crete: Rich heritage and richer cuisine

Places to visit: The Venetian Harbour of Heraklion, Palace Of Knossos, Samariá Gorge National Park

Angistri: Water sports and serene beaches

Places to visit: Megalochori, Skala Beach, The Church of Agioi Anargyroi

Chios: Rustic island immersed in the culture

Places to visit: Mirsinidi Beach, Mavros Gialos Beach, Chios Mastiha Museum

(All Images: Shutterstock)

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia India

Lakshita Sharma

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5+1 Incredible Greek Islands Near Santorini (Which Might Be Better)

There’s more to Greece than Santorini! These amazing Greek islands close to Santorini could be a great addition to your itinerary in Greece.

Santorini is only one of the hundreds of islands in Greece

There’s no doubt that Santorini is a popular island. It is not an exaggeration to say that it is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

In a nutshell, the island of Santorini in the Cyclades is famous for its stunning sunset views , the out-of-this-world volcano , the abundance of wineries , and picturesque beaches .

Overall, Santorini is regarded as a romantic island. It is one of the most popular destinations in Greece for weddings and honeymoon trips .

Indeed, the volcano and the black sand landscapes are unique – but can also get very hot! I love visiting Santorini during the off-season , when temperatures aren’t too high.

Here’s a relaxed 4-day Santorini itinerary , which will help you plan your days on the popular island.

Santorini island hopping in the Aegean Sea

Santorini island is definitely worth visiting once in your life. However, there are another 119 inhabited islands to explore in my beautiful country (what a cliche, eh?)

The Greek islands are grouped in six island chains, plus two large standalone islands. Most of these chains are in the Aegean Sea. This introduction to the Greek island groups will help you place them on the map.

Islands in the Cyclades chain are geographically close to Santorini. This means that you can visit Santorini, and then take a quick ferry trip to one or two nearby islands.

Note that there are no direct flights between the Cyclades – you’d always have to connect in Athens. Not to mention that very few of the Cyclades have airports.

Here are five of the best islands you can visit near Santorini, plus one bonus Greek island outside the Cyclades which you’re sure to love.

1. Mykonos – The best-known island close to Santorini

Strictly speaking, Mykonos is further away from Santorini than some other islands. However, the Mykonos – Santorini combination is extremely popular, especially among first-time visitors.

Have a look at this guide, where I’ve included a 7-day itinerary for Athens, Santorini and Mykonos , and how to plan it independently.

There are many direct ferry routes between Santorini and Mykonos. The fastest ferry covers the distance in about 2 hours. You can check out routes and book your tickets on Ferryscanner .

What to do in Mykonos

Mykonos is known for its nightlife , stunning golden sandy beaches , maze-like Chora , windmills , shopping and overall cosmopolitan atmosphere .

The legendary Mykonos beach parties have been going on for decades. Jet-setters from around the world have made Mykonos their standard summer destination.

Mykonos has some seriously amazing beaches. However, most of them are covered with beach bars, sunbeds and umbrellas from side to side. This includes the popular Psarou, Ornos, Paradise and Super Paradise beach.

Mykonos and Santorini are close to each other

If, like me, you like wild, natural beaches, you will need to have your own transportation and be prepared to drive a fair amount. Or, take an incredible kayak trip , and explore the lovely coastline.

Should I go to Mykonos?

You’ve probably heard this before, and it’s true – Mykonos can get very crowded and expensive.

Many people return every summer to enjoy the lively atmosphere and luxurious hotels. However, some travellers might be disappointed.

I’m the first to admit that Mykonos is not my style at all. That said, I was lucky to visit Mykonos without the crowds in summer 2020. Most of the beaches were really quiet, and I had a blast!

I also took an unforgettable trip to Ancient Delos , one of my favourite ancient sites in Greece. A small boat runs between the two islands several times a day.

If you are after quieter or more authentic destinations, Mykonos might not be for you. However, there are plenty of other islands near Santorini that you could consider.

2. Naxos – Best Greek island for authenticity

Naxos is the biggest of the Cyclades and one of my favourite Greek islands. While there is a lot of tourist infrastructure, Naxos has largely kept its authentic character.

Several direct ferries connect Naxos and Santorini, and the ferry ride takes about 2 hours.

With its rich history, diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches and delicious food, Naxos is one of the most rewarding destinations in Greece.

If you like hiking and exploring, allow for several days in Naxos, as there are plenty of hiking trails.

What to do in Naxos Greece

The first thing you will notice in Naxos is the stunning Chora or Naxos Town, which is also the island’s port. Wander around the narrow alleys and explore the Cycladic architecture and white-washed houses.

A popular Naxos landmark is the Venetian Castle , which was built in the 13th century AD, on the ruins of ancient settlements. In addition, you should visit the Portara Gate, which is a great place to watch the sunset from.

Sunset at the Portara - Ancient entrance in Naxos near Santorini

Apart from Chora, Naxos has several beautiful villages , like Filoti, Melanes and Apeiranthos village. They have mostly kept their mountain character and traditional architecture, and it doesn’t really feel like you are on an island.

In terms of history and archaeology , Naxos won’t disappoint. Apart from the medieval castle, there are plenty of ancient ruins around the island. Don’t miss the temple of Demeter and the famous Kouroi statues.

Naxos has some of the best beaches in Greece

Another reason to visit Naxos are its fantastic beaches . Whether you like natural beaches or you prefer to have loungers and umbrellas, Naxos has it all.

My favourite beaches in Naxos were Plaka and Mikro Aliko, but there are so many more that are worth exploring!

There’s more food to try than the Naxos graviera cheese

Last but not least… food ! In my experience, Naxos has some of the most incredible food in the Cyclades.

Their awarded potatoes, locally grown vegetables, delicious cheeses and local meat dishes are well-known all over Greece. Don’t leave without trying the Naxos graviera cheese.

Here is some more information about Naxos .

3. Ios – One of the best Greek islands for golden sandy beaches

Does the name “Ios” bring up images of young, slightly (or not so slightly) intoxicated party crowds? If so, chances are that your memories go back in time, a couple of decades ago.

It might be time to re-discover this beautiful island. I last visited in 2020 and consider Ios a top Greek holiday destination!

Beach in Ios island near Santorini Greece

Ios is the closest island to Santorini, being under an hour away on the local ferry . It could even be an option for a day trip if you are really pushed for time.

In my opinion though, give it a few days and you won’t regret it. I stayed in Ios for a week, and could have easily spent a month!

Ios is not just a party island

Ios indeed has a vibrant party scene . However, this is mostly around the main town, Chora, the famous Mylopotas beach, and a couple of clubs.

The charming little island has much to offer in terms of rugged, beautiful beaches and lovely nature .

Like most of the Cyclades islands, Ios has some cool hiking trails . I loved hiking to the lighthouse, on the Koumpara peninsula, where we went for sunset.

I actually enjoyed this location more than some of the crowded sunset spots in Santorini. But that’s just me!

When it comes to the iconic blue-domed, white-washed houses and churches , Ios has literally hundreds. Walk all the way up the hill from Chora, and you will discover a few.

Finally, don’t miss Paleokastro , the ruins of a Venetian castle where a lovely small church has been built. The views are just fantastic!

Ios has some seriously incredible beaches

From all the islands near Santorini, Ios might is the one with the nicest sandy beaches. The most famous beach in Ios is Milopotas, a long sandy beach with some loungers and plenty of water sports.

My favourite wild beaches in Ios include Kalamos, Psathi and Lorentzena. These were great to spend several hours on and relax without the crowds.

I also liked Manganari on the south, a group of sandy coves around a shallow lagoon with a few loungers here and there.

Here’s more information on what to do in Ios .

4. Milos – A Greek island with incredible landscapes

In the past decade, the popularity of Milos has been on the rise. Its incredible landscapes , its rugged, virgin beaches and its natural beauty make it one of the most picturesque Greek destinations.

Milos and Santorini are only 2 hours away on the fast ferry . Here are some tips on how to get to Milos from Athens, Santorini and other islands.

Milos Greece - The views from the castle in Plaka

View from the Venetian Castle in Plaka town Milos

Allow plenty of time for this wonderful island, especially if you like exploring by land. Milos has one of the longest dirt road networks in the Cyclades, and a 4WD or quad is recommended.

Here’s more information on how to get around Milos Greece .

Milos has some pretty amazing landscapes

Milos was created after a volcanic eruption, which happened about 90,000 years ago. Over the millennia, the volcanic ash helped shaped the colourful rocks and unique landscapes that you will see when you visit Milos.

Its soil is rich in minerals, which explains the island’s unique mining tradition, from ancient times to today. I found the Milos Mining Museum to be one of the most interesting museums in the Cyclades.

Explore the wild beaches in Milos

Some of the beaches you will see on the volcanic island are really other-worldly. As an example, Sarakiniko beach looks like the moon.

Kleftiko beach has some massive, jagged rocks and unique underwater caves. You can get here by boat trip or a relatively unknown hike. Read my experiences hiking to Kleftiko Bay in Milos for more.

Hiking to Kleftiko beach in Milos Greece

All in all, Milos has several memorable beaches, and you should visit as many as you can.

This is the stunning Fyriplaka which is absolutely worth visiting, even on a day with strong winds! Here’s some more information on the best beaches in Milos .

Colourful landscape at Fyriplaka beach Milos Greece

If you only have a couple of days in Milos, I warmly recommend taking a sailing tour around the island . You will see the pretty coastline, explore the secret coves, and have a blast. It was one of my highlights in Milos.

The food in Milos is just lovely

There are a few restaurants in Milos to which I would love to go back to. Some of my favourites are O! Hamos!, Medusa in Mandrakia and the rather non-descript but amazing Bakalikon Galanis.

The list is getting longer every time I return, so watch this space! Our Amazon book on Milos and Kimolos lists a few more restaurants you can try.

And here’s my ultimate guide to Greek food, with 50 Greek dishes you should try when you are here.

Stay in one of the quaint fishermen’s houses in Milos

Finally, another unique feature of the beautiful island are the fishermen’s traditional boat garages by the sea, called syrmata . You can see them in many coastal villages, of which the most popular is Klima village .

Not surprisingly, a few of them have been transformed into seasonal accommodation for visitors. Absolutely beats all-inclusive hotels!

If Milos sounds interesting, here are some more reasons to visit Milos in Greece , including some information on its rich history. Also, here’s an article on the best time to visit Milos and Kimolos .

5. Sikinos – The most amazing sunset views at a winery

You might not have heard of Sikinos. It’s a small, arid, quiet island located between Ios and the upcoming Folegandros, about an hour or two from Santorini. So why would anyone want to go there?

In all honesty, Sikinos is not for everyone . It’s not for people who want to fill their time with activities, or for people who are after luxurious hotels. In fact, it’s exactly the opposite of Santorini in so many ways.

And this is exactly why, from all the islands near Santorini, Sikinos has become one of my favourite Greek islands.

There is so little to do, that you have no choice but to take it easy . Relax on the few beaches, go for long swims, read a book, talk to the locals and other visitors.

What is there to do in Sikinos?

My number one thing to do in Sikinos was visiting Manalis winery for sunset . Now, Santorini has well over a dozen wineries, some of which produce world-famous wine. And there are plenty of well-organized, top-rated winery tours.

So why am I insisting on this particular one on a random Greek island you’ve never heard of?

Sunset over the Aegean in Sikinos Greece

Well, this single meal was one of my best meals on the Greek islands, ever. Great food, fine wine and an extraordinary setting. I would make a special trip to Sikinos just to watch the sunset from Manalis winery again.

(In case you are wondering, no, I’m not affiliated with them and yes, we did pay for our meal!)

At night, go all the way up to the mountain to see the stars . If you have a car, park at the Episkopi parking lot and turn your lights off. In my experience, few places in Greece are as magical, and I’ve been to many!

If you make it to this small island with the crystal clear emerald waters, try to spend at least 2 or 3 days. Forget about wild nightlife, and consider getting up early to catch the sunrise.

Intrigued? Good! 🙂 Here’s a complete guide on what to do in Sikinos .

Bonus: Crete – A Real Greek Experience for explorers

Including Crete in a list of islands near Santorini might sound strange, as it’s not in the Cyclades. However, the fast ferries can take you there in less than 2 hours.

Now, Crete is my favourite place in the world. It’s Greece’s largest island and one of Europe’s biggest. It would take you several weeks (or perhaps a lifetime!) to see it properly, and it doesn’t compare to any other island near Santorini or elsewhere.

What’s so special about Crete?

It’s impossible to summarize Crete in a few lines. Nevertheless, some of the highlights in Crete include the following:

Cities

The biggest cities in Crete are Heraklion and Chania , with direct flights from abroad. There is lots of history and sightseeing, a good mix of tavernas and souvenir shops .

The other two big towns in Crete, Rethymno and Agios Nikolaos , are also worth visiting.

History

There are several archaeological and historical sites in Crete. Some of the most popular are Knossos , Festos, Gortyna, Matala and Spinalonga .

In addition to that, you will see signs of the Venetian and Ottoman rule all around Crete. Also, don’t miss the fantastic archaeological museum in Heraklion .

Nature

Crete is a paradise for nature lovers! Apart from the famous Samaria gorge , there are dozens more gorges, mountains, caves and rivers.

Beaches

Some of the most famous beaches in Crete include Balos , Elafonisi , Preveli, Vai and Falassarna, but there are hundreds more. Some of my personal favourites include natural beaches like Kedrodassos , Lentas and Triopetra .

Cretan food is unique, partly because most of the produce is local. Vegetables, meat, cheese, rusks, olive oil, raki , you name it. In my opinion, Crete has the best food – and some of the best restaurants – in Greece!

Crete has some wonderful, hospitable, crazy people!

Should I go to Crete for a couple of days?

If you are in Santorini and only have a couple of days to spare on a nearby island, my advice is, skip Crete, as you won’t do it justice.

However, if you have a week or more, by all means consider it. In fact, you could fly to Crete from your country of residence, and maybe hop to Santorini for a couple of days. Who knows, Crete might become your next top Greek destination!

Book your ferry tickets to the Greek islands

Wherever you decide to go, you will need to book ferry tickets. I use Ferryscanner to compare routes and book ferry tickets.

You might be able to find some of those tickets last minute, or even at the port. However, I suggest that you book them at least a week or two in advance, especially during high season (July – August).

The combinations Santorini – Crete, Santorini – Mykonos and Santorini – Milos are increasingly popular, and you don’t want to risk not finding a seat at your ferry of choice.

For more information on ferries and getting around the islands, have a look at this article on island hopping in the Cyclades . You will discover a few other Greek islands which you may have never heard of before 🙂

FAQs about islands near Santorini

Here are a few questions about the islands in Greece that visitors ask:

Can you island hop from Santorini?

Island hopping is a great way to see more Greek islands near Santorini. It is very easy to island hop in Greece – you only need to know the ferry routes.

Where can you go by ferry from Santorini?

During high season, there are direct ferry routes from Santorini to many of the Cyclades islands. Apart from the islands mentioned above, you can easily visit Tinos, Syros, Paros, Sifnos, Amorgos, Folegandros and Kimolos.

Which islands are near to Santorini?

The islands that are geographically closer to Santorini are Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros and Anafi island. Many of the Cyclades islands are directly connected with Santorini.

Which Greek island can you visit on a day trip from Santorini?

You can easily visit the tiny Thirassia island on a day trip from Santorini. You might also be able to do a day trip from Santorini to Ios, but check ferry timetables as they are not always convenient.

How do you get from Santorini to other islands?

The easiest way to get from Santorini to other islands is on the extensive network of ferries in Greece.

Which Greek island should I go to?

This is the million dollar question, and it comes down to what you like. If you want something very different to Santorini, consider Naxos, Ios, Sikinos or even Tinos .

A beach in the Cyclades close to Santorini

These are some of the best Greek islands for me, but everyone is different! That said, if I only had to choose one of the Cyclades, I’d probably say Naxos, just because it’s so diverse and amazing.

However, it’s hard to go wrong with any of the Greek islands. You will often find that the last one you visited has become your new favourite!

I’d love to hear your views on any islands you have visited before or after Santorini. Please leave your comments below!

More Greece travel guides

Here are a few more Greek island guides you may find useful:

How long should I spend in Santorini
Is Santorini safe
Greek island hopping on a budget
What to pack for Greece
Santorini in June
Warmest Greek islands in October
Driving in Greece
Best beaches in Rhodes

6 thoughts on “5+1 Incredible Greek Islands Near Santorini (Which Might Be Better)”

It’s no secret that Santorini is a great Greek destination to visit. However, there are other nearby islands, like Sikinos, that are also worth visiting. You can’t go wrong with any of them!

Glad you agree! Sikinos has become one of my favourites – hope to be able to explore more islands in summer 2021 😀

Hi there I. On a europe vacation with my husband and ending in santorini from august 6 to 13, 2022 But we want to see one more week of Greece till august 20, 2021 Cyclades are beautiful what do you recommend I perder no flying Boat to islands would be great I heard Zakinthos is amazing

Hi Liliana, unfortunately it would be hard and very time consuming to reach Zakynthos without flying. I haven’t been recently myself, so I have no opinion unfortunately. Since you have a full week, I warmly recommend Naxos , a fantastic diverse island, which is easy to reach from Santorini. It is a gorgeous island with fantastic beaches and great food, one of my favourites!

What are the best islands to visit from Santorini, if we DO NOT want a party place but quieter beaches, good food and interesting places to visit? Want to visit in October this year for a week or so.. thanks!

Hi Tony, none of these islands are party places in October, as it’s the shoulder season. I would suggest Naxos which has more to do, fantastic beaches and beautiful villages. Here is a longer article with things to do in Naxos . It would be best to rent a car. Crete is also great, and the weather might be a bit warmer as it’s a little more to the south. Eitherway, if you are after beaches, visit as early in October as you can, as the weather changes gradually and you might get some rain.

5 Greek Islands You Need To Visit That Are Not Mykonos And Santorini

There’s no doubt about it, Black jetsetters in the know love exploring Greece. Just one look at travel IG feeds like Soul Society and you’ll be inspired by all the melanin magic doing it up in Athens and on the Greek isles. Something else you may notice is that everyone seems to be visiting the same exact islands – Mykonos and Santorini.

Now don’t get it twisted, there’s nothing wrong with having Mykonos and Santorini on your itinerary (especially if it’s your first visit to Greece), but social media will have you think those are the only two islands that exist, and that’s just not true.

With over 200 islands in Greece, we’re here to tell you that when it comes to island hopping there is so much more to discover beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Truth be told, you don’t even need to catch a flight from Athens to find beautiful islands to get lost in. Local faves like the Peloponesse are located just a short distance from Athens city center.

However, since it’s not a true visit to Greece unless you’re sailing across those iconic blue waters, we’ve rounded up a list of islands that go beyond basic so that on your next Greek adventure you’ll stand out from the crowd. Opa!

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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!

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?

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.

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 .

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!

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.

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.

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.

5 Greek Islands to Visit Instead of Santorini

Planning a Greek island vacation? The Cyclades are a group of islands in the Aegean Sea southeast of mainland Greece. While Santorini is perhaps the most famous of the Cyclades with over 220 islands, there are many others from which to choose. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exploration of the ancient history of the Greek isles, there is something for everyone in the Cyclades. Here are our top picks for Greek islands to visit.

Perhaps the most well known of the Greek Islands after Santorini, Mykonos is known for its glitzy nightlife scene, which is especially vibrant in the summer. Be sure to watch for the many celebrities that visit Mykonos this time of year. When you’ve had your fill of the nightlife, explore Mykonos’s Alefkántra district. In this 18th-century district, you’ll see impressive mansions with colorful balconies and windows. Take time to sit at a waterfront cafe and admire the beautiful views of the sea and mountaintop windmills.

Naxos 5 Greek Islands to Visit Instead of Santorini

Naxos is the largest and greenest of all 220 Cyclades islands. One of its most remarkable features is the Portara. This impressive marble gate served as a temple of Apollo and has stood in the Palatia islet since the 6th century BC. The capital Chora is a medieval Venetian castle town with stone alleys, fortifications, and arched gateways. The island also attracts foodie visitors who want to experience the many wines, cheeses, and other specialties produced here. Perhaps the most popular is Kitron, Naxos’s signature liquor. Of all the Greek islands, this may be our favorite.

Paros 5 Greek Islands to Visit Instead of Santorini

Paros is one of the most loved holiday destinations in Greece. With its villages of cubic homes and unparalleled natural beauty, it’s no wonder. Sunny beaches with crystal clear water, like Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria and Poúnda, are the perfect places from which to start a kayak or canoe tour of the coast. On land, explore the villages such as Náoussa. This colorful traditional village has the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small harbor.

Milos has amazing beaches; there are over 80 of them in total, many of which are accessible only by boat. All of the beaches are wonderful, but a few are certainly not to be missed. The hideaway Tzigrado beach is flanked by cliffs, and can only be accessed by boat or by a ladder from the top of the cliffs. You will feel like you’re on a trip to the moon on the otherworldly Sarakiniko beach made from fine white pumice. Towering rock formations surround the three beaches of Paliochori. Their pebbles are beautifully multicolored and the water has warm pockets where it’s fed by underwater hot springs. No matter which of Milos’ beaches you choose, you’ll be glad you made the trip to this standout beauty in the Greek islands.

Serifos 5 Greek Islands to Visit Instead of Santorini

Locals on Serifos have maintained the Cycladic tradition of building white and blue houses so this island is especially photogenic. Visitors to Serifos enjoy many outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, climbing, and diving. This island is also the closest to Athens, lying only a short 4-hour ferry ride away, making it perfect for combining with a trip to the mainland. Be sure to visit the town of Chora while you are there. Yes, just like the capital town in Naxos, this town is also called Chora! This beautiful village is built on two levels with the upper mountaintop area accessible by a staircase from the lower neighborhood. It also has an imposing 15th-century Venetian castle well worth the ten-minute walk to visit.

No matter which of the beautiful Cycladic islands you choose, your vacation to the Greek islands is sure to be wonderful. For more planning ideas, learn Why Foodies Love the Island of Mykonos .

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Greek Islands To Visit In 2020, That Are Not Santorini

Greece is full of unbelievable beauty, but travelers would be missing out on the best if they didn't explore outside of Santorini.

With its ancient ruins, olive trees, and delicious ouzo, Greece is one of the most charming Mediterranean destinations. Though there are many must-see sights in mainland Greece, such as vibrant Athens, Delphi – home to the famous oracle Pythia, and the rock marvels of Meteora , the truth is that it’s the Greek islands that attract tourists like a magnet.

Greece has more than 6,000 islands, of which approximately 227 are inhabited. Some of the main island chains include the Cyclades, the Dodecanese Islands, the Sporades archipelago, the Saronic Islands, and the Ionian Islands.

It's not a secret, though, that one of the most visited islands in Greece is Santorini. With its unique landscapes, white houses, and romantic atmosphere, there's no doubt that Santorini is the shiny pearl of the Cyclades .

Nevertheless, let's not forget that Greece has thousands of virgin beaches, hidden bays, and sea caves. So, here are 10 fascinating Greek islands to visit in 2020, that are not Santorini.

10 Thassos Is A Green Paradise In The North Aegean Sea

Located in the northern part of the beautiful Aegean Sea, Thassos is one of the most beautiful (but often overlooked) islands in Greece. Thassos is considered the green jewel of the Aegean Sea as it offers diverse landscapes, olive trees, and sandy beaches all at the same time. On top of that, Thassos is really close to the beautiful city of Kavala that attracts tourists with its ancient ruins and colorful houses.

9 Corfu - One Of The Most Beautiful Ionian Islands - Has A Lively Vibe

Corfu is one of the most attractive islands in Greece. It’s part of the Ionian Islands situated off the western part of Greece. The capital of Corfu, in particular, is a must-see place. With its ancient fortress, local cafés, and amazing vibes, Corfu Town or Kerkyra is one of the most colorful and vibrant places in the whole of Europe. Moreover, Corfu is a short distance from Saranda, one of the pearls of the Albanian Riviera .

8 Crete, The Largest Island In Greece, Is A Maze Of Ancient Ruins And Beautiful Beaches

If you are interested in ancient history, mysterious tales, and Greek mythology, visit Crete – the biggest island of Greece. Crete offers different diving experiences, hiking adventures, and party moments. Do not forget to visit Knossos – one of the most important archeological sites in Greece and one of the oldest cities in Europe. It’s believed that the bloody bull-headed creature Minotaur lived in a maze in Knossos.

7 Swim With The Turtles Of Zakynthos - One Of The Most Instagrammable Islands In The World

With its exotic beaches, memorable hikes, and crazy nightlife, Zakynthos or Zante is one of the most famous Ionian Islands in Greece. Just like Santorini, Zakynthos offers numerous breathtaking (and Insta-worthy) vistas. Navagio or Shipwreck beach, for instance, is one of the must-see places there. Also, adventure lovers can explore the sea caves of Zakynthos, have a swim in the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, and even see turtles.

6 Aegina, The Closest Island To Athens, Is A Cool Travel Destination

The Saronic Islands located in the Aegean’s Saronic Gulf are just off mainland Greece. Aegina is one of the most amazing islands in this island group, just 17 miles from Athens. In fact, many companies offer day trips from Piraeus, one of the major transport hubs in Greece. Aegina attracts visitors with its lively cafes, cozy hotels, and artsy events. So, do not hesitate and put this pearl of the Aegean Sea on your island hopping list!

5 Enjoy The White And Blue Magic Of Mykonos, One Of The Most Cosmopolitan Islands In Greece

There’s no doubt that the Cyclades are the most popular island group in Greece. With their white buildings, blue roofs, and arid-brown vistas, places like Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Syros attract millions of tourists. Though Mykonos can get really busy between May and September, we have to admit that this iconic island is one of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan Cycladic gems. Note that Mykonos windmills are among the most beautiful sights on the island.

4 Explore The History Rhodes, The Capital Of The Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes, the capital of the Dodecanese Islands, is one of the most important islands in Greece. Rhodes is a great destination for history lovers. The city of Rhodes has an old town, a mixture of medieval, Ottoman, and Venetian styles. In fact, the island was occupied by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades . We should also note that Rhodes is close to Marmaris, one of the Mediterranean pearls of Turkey.

RELATED: The Mythological Guide To Greece: Destinations Every Fan Of Homer Has To Visit

3 Skiathos, Part Of The Sporades Archipelago, Is One Of The Most Romantic Islands In Greece

The Sporades Archipelago in the Aegean Sea is kind of an overlooked destination. Interestingly, there are 24 islands in this group, but only four are inhabited, as per Offbeat Greece. One of the most beautiful islands is Skiathos, the Mykonos of Northern Greece. The island is a short distance from Volos, known as the City of the Argonauts. Skiathos welcomes visitors from all over the globe with its charming open bars, romantic cafes, and virgin beaches.

RELATED: 10 Most Romantic Places To Visit In Greece

2 Ios Is Known As The Party Island Of Greece

Island hopping is a wonderful experience for nature lovers and party-goers alike. Ios or Nio, in particular, is one of the most exciting holiday hotspots in the Aegean Sea . Ios is part of the Cyclades (between Santorini and Naxos); it has numerous beautiful beaches and impressive rock formations. That said, the island is famous for its bars and parties, an ideal destination for party-goers and young travelers.

RELATED: 10 Adult-Friendly Party Cities For Living It Up This Summer

1 Follow The Path Of Poetry And Ouzo In Lesbos

Lesbos is another beautiful island that will guide you through poetry and love. In fact, the ancient Greek poet Sappho was born on the island of Lesbos. This fascinating island is located in the northern Aegean Sea, just off the coast of Turkey. With its beautiful hiking trails, charming vistas, and authentic houses, Lesbos attracts visitors from all over the globe. By the way, did you know that the island is known for its delicious ouzo?

NEXT: A Travel Guide To Greece: 11 Things To Know While Planning Your Trip

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Overtourism in Greece

Every summer in Greece seems to get bigger than the last. It’s hard to resist the crystal clear, azure water, the beautiful beaches and the laid-back summer vibe.

But some places get a lot more love and attention than others and with that comes many issues, some environmental, some social. Demand also means prices, of course, are higher in those places and in peak period it can be very hard to get things like hire cars and taxis, even accommodation sometimes.

So what can be done about it?

Despite there being over 227 inhabited islands many tourists generally visit just two or three of the most popular dozen. Santorini and Mykonos , in particular, get the lions share of first-time visitors, who often wonder why their experience wasn’t as ‘authentic’ as they had hoped.

If you are planning a vacation in Greece this coming summer, here are a few ideas to help you have a better experience and to ensure the islands are manageable and the visitors and the money is spread a little more evenly.

When to avoid crowds in Greece

Apart from the alternate suggestions for lesser-known islands and mainland locations, there is also another big tip around timing.

Peak season in Greece is from Mid-July to the end of August. European school holidays occur from the end of June until the end of August and many Greek themselves head to the Islands in August ( which can then mean it’s a good time to visit Athens, only very hot – get a pool).

Shoulder season is Easter until June and September to November. Many people say this is the very best time to visit Greece.

Off-season in Greece is November to Easter and, as it can get very cold, many things on the islands shut as operators head back to their home towns on the Mainland.

Lesser-known Greek Island alternatives

Instead of santorini go to milos or folegandros.

Milos easily rivals Santorini for extraordinary volcanic landscapes and geology yet the beaches are much better.

Folegandros has a charming Chora that is like a small version of Oia, without the crowds, the cruise ships or the price tags.

Instead of Mykonos go to Paros or Tinos

Mykonos in summer can be hard work. Heaving crowds, ridiculous prices and, if you ever hear about price-gouging or blatant scams, sadly this is where they generally occur.

They say Naoussa in Paros is like Mykonos 20 years ago, while Tinos is even quieter yet has similar topography.

Instead of Paros go to Antiparos

Only 7 minutes by ferry it’s no wonder several Hollywood celebrities have made this small, charming island their summer home. While many people visit as a day trip from Paros it is also worth staying a few days, or more.

Instead of Naxos go to the Small Cyclades or Amorgos

Just below Naxos is the stunning archipelago of small islands including Koufonisia and Schinouusa that is called the ‘Small or Lesser Cyclades’. The azure waters and sea caves around here are stunning!

Further east is the island of Amorgos , home to the 2nd oldest Monastery in Greece and an extraordinary feat of building and engineering.

Instead of Milos go to Kimolos

Only 1 kilometre from Milos you will find a smaller version of the island that is fast becoming the ‘next Santorini’. A popular day trip, it is also worth staying a few nights if you can.

Instead of Patmos go to wonderful Lipsi

Less than an hour from Patmos Lipsi is a smaller, much quieter alternative with wonderful beaches you may have all to yourself.

Instead of Rhodes go to gorgeous Chalki or Symi

Just one hour from Rhodes and you are in Symi , a fantastic island with one of the most beautiful harbour towns in all of Europe. This is a stunning place to spend a few days or weeks with many of the old neo-classical mansions converted to super stylish boutique hotels and restaurants. This island has attracted a number of creative ex-pats in recent years from New York fashion designers to Lake Como millionaires. One of Greece’s best kept secrets.

Only 30 minutes from Rhodes Chalki is a lovely island that has also a very pretty harbour and is really a smaller version of Symi in many ways.

These islands are very different propositions to much of Rhodes and are great places to enjoy an Ouzo with the locals.

Instead of Zakynthos go to Kefalonia

Zakynthos is great but sadly the images of Navaggio (Shipwreck) Beach has bought with it hordes of boats and day-trippers, especially in Summer.

Next door is the big island of Kefalonia which offers very similar things, including day trips to Shipwreck Beach.

Instead of Kefalonia go to Ithaca or Lefkada

Next to Kefalonia is the mythical island of Ithaca, home to Odysseus, hero of the Trojan War and star of Homers’ The Iliad and The Odyssey.

To the north of Kefalonia is Lefkada which is actually one of the only islands connected by road to the mainland.

These islands are very beautiful, have wonderful beaches and are an idyllic Greek dream vacation.

Instead of Hydra go to Aegina

Hydra is the most popular island in the Saronic group of islands, close to Athens, and is an upmarket destination famous for its beautiful neo-classical harbour lined with converted Captain’s mansions, its car free edict and it’s history as home to famous creatives such as Leonard Cohen.

Aegina is even closer to Athens – only an hour by ferry, and is a year round destination offering an authentic experience at a very affordable price. Famous for its Pistachios and the incredible Temple of Aphaia this is an island that under promises and over delivers.

Instead of Corfu go to Paxos

Located south of Corfu and without an airport, Paxos is a wonderful place to spend summer. Covered in verdant green trees but with some of the clearest water in Europe, holidays here are truly heaven sent. Day trips to Anti-Paxos reveal even more beauty!

Instead of Skiathos go to Skopelos or Alonissos

With a small, but much videoed International Airport Skiathos has been a firm favourite for decades but has a tendency to get very busy in Summer.

Head next door to Skopelos and its beautiful heritage-protected Old town and Mama Mia church or even further to Alonissos and its wonderful marine park, the largest protected marine area in Europe.

Naoussa, Paros

Sarakaniko Beach, Milos

Alternative towns and villages in Greece

Stay in Megalochori or Pyrgos instead of Oia or Thira

These small villages are where the locals live. They have some excellent accommodation options with great views and much lower prices.

Stay in Rethymnon instead of Chania.

Rethymnon has a very charming Old Town with cobblestoned alleys festooned with Bougainvillea, but also a nice beach but is less crowded than Chania in Summer.

Stay in Loutro instead of the North.

While many parts of the north remain quite charming there is a lot of development, a lot of tourists and many areas are now foreign owned, run and occupied. Loutro is a small, authentic village in the south which remains truly Cretan and is also close to the incredible Samaria Gorge.

Stay in Piso Livadi or Aliki instead of Naoussa or Parikia

These small villages only have a handful of hotels and tavernas and they are all excellent. Lovely calm beaches too.

Stay in Abram or Mousouna on Naxos

Far from the summer crowds and embracing complete peace and tranquillity these small coastal villages will give you a true Naxian experience.

Stay in Assos or Agia Effimia

These pretty villages in the North of Kefalonia are small enough to retain their charm and authenticity but big enough to accommodate small numbers of tourists. Undamaged in the big earthquake their architecture is still beautifully intact.

Stay in Panormos

Far from the maddening crowds on the other side of the island this tiny village is also close to one of the best tavernas on the island, Kiki’s Taverna.

Thessaloniki

Stay in Kavala or Alexandroupoli instead of Thessaloniki

These northern cities are heaving in history and are said to some of the best food in the country. The Ottoman influence is rich and quite beautiful.

Stay in the Athenian Riviera

Less than 40 minutes from central Athens are beaches that rival many of the islands and some lovely beachside resorts , shops and restaurants. (see Mainland destinations below)

Assos, Kefalonia

Pyrgos, Santorini

Rethymnon, Crete

Piso Livadi, Paros

Mainland Destinations

The Mainland is actually an complete alternative to the islands. This is where you will find the ‘real’ Greece, not the summer-time holiday version you see on travel posters.

Check out the entire Peloponnese on the Mainland. Or Volos and the Pelion! They have everything the islands have only cheaper and completely authentic.

Base yourself in beautiful Nafplio to explore the eastern parts of the Peloponnese or Kalamata to explore the West.

Here you will find amazing beaches, wonderful food, authentic towns and villages, incredible history and archaeology, rich culture and anthropology and all at very affordable prices.

You can also find extreme luxury and decadence too if that’s what you are after. The only Aman resort in Greece (the location for the movie Glass Onion, Knives Out) is in the Peloponnese and the only Four Seasons is on the Athenian Riviera. There are high-end resort areas on the Peloponnese found in the Porto Heli region and the Costa Navarino. Here you will find luxury brands such as The Romanos and The Westin.

Athens , of course, is a year-round destination and a great alternative to the islands at any time. If you’ve visited Athens many times ( it really could take years to explore properly) or are looking for a different city experience in Greece then check out Thessaloniki , the capital of Macedonia and considered the ‘gourmet’ capital of Greece.

The interior of the Mainland also offers incredible bangs for your bucks. With the second-highest number of Mountains in Europe after Austria, many people do not know that there are over 25 ski resorts and they offer a very affordable alternative to their western European neighbours.

Even outside winter, the interior can be a delight with vibrant Autumn leaves and beautiful Spring wildflowers everywhere. Towns like Ioannina and Arachova are a wonderful place to base yourself or Kalambaka or Trikala to explore extraordinary Meteora.

Athenian Riviera

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Best Greek Islands To Visit

Updated On: March 13, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Greek islands are some of the most beautiful travel destinations in Europe and depending on what your situation is, a trip to a greek island might be the perfect trip for your wedding, your honeymoon, your family holiday or even your solo getaway. The best greek islands in my opinion are the ones on the Cyclades island group which are located in the beautiful Aegean Sea. Visiting a greek island is literally one of the best things to do in Greece .

The best greek island really depends on your situation and what you are looking for from your vacation in Greece as every island is different. Greek islands are destinations with incredible natural beauty and really worth your visit even for a day trip, if you can.

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Best greek islands to visit.

Santorini (most famous greek island, romantic, amazing views, very expensive)
Mykonos (celebrity hotspot, sandy beaches, very expensive)
Crete (massive island, very diverse, stunning beaches)
Corfu (very green, west side of Greece)
Zakynthos (also called Zante, similar but smaller to Corfu)
Kefalonia (large island close to Corfu, very green and diverse)
Rhodes (close to Crete, quite big and very unique)
Naxos (the most underrated Cyclades island with amazing food)
Ios (used to be a party island but not anymore)
Paros (sandy beaches, close to Mykonos)
Milos (less touristy but beautiful; Venus de Milo is from there!)
Skiathos (the “Mamma Mia” island…)

READ ALSO: Where To Stay in Santorini Best Greek Islands for Older Couples Best Greek Islands for families Best Greek Islands for couples When is Summer in Greece Tipping in Greece Best Hotels in Naxos Best Hotels in Paros

But not all greek islands are the same and the best time to visit them actually might differ. Some greek islands are better for families and some greek islands are perfect for couples . All of them are extremely idyllic locations and a top 10 wouldn’t make any sense as they are all equally beautiful (at least to my greek eyes!).

And I can tell you that because I am actually Greek and I have been to all of them! (yes…you will find greek island travel guides on the internet from people who have been there once or twice and are not even greeks…).

So, I am explaining here what are the differences and what is the best greek island for you depending on your situation and who are you traveling with.

Keep reading…

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

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW FOR GREEK ISLANDS

High season (peak season) for the greek islands is between May-October. This is the time when the greek islands are most crowded with tourists but also when the weather is the warmest (temperature between 25-30 degrees Celsius or 70-100 Fahrenheit); read more: when is summer in Greece?
Best Time to visit greek islands is at the end of the high season which is September and October , when the weather will still be warm (more than 20 degrees Celsius) and you would still be able to swim in the sea water.
When You Can Actually Swim in the Sea Water of the greek islands: the sea water is perfect in greek islands between June-October (and including these 2 months), so if you are visiting anytime outside of these months you may get sunshine and 30C degrees temperature but the sea water won’t be warm enough; you can certainly give it a try though!
Best Greek Island: undoubtedly Santorini is the best greek island and the one you have to visit if you are only visiting Greece for a few days; you should know though that it is the most touristic and the most visited by cruise ships
Best greek islands near Athens: Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses (all are very cute and scenic but only worth a daytrip from Athens as they are very small)
Best greek islands for beaches : Mykonos beaches , Naxos beaches, Paros beaches and Crete beaches are the best in Greece; Santorini beaches are nice but not the best in Greece
Best greek islands for families : Naxos, Crete, Rhodes and Corfu
Best greek islands for couples : Santorini, Crete, Milos and Skiathos
Best greek islands for honeymoon : Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Paros and Skiathos
Best greek islands close to Athens (Saronic gulf): Hydra, Egina, Agkistri, Poros
The Mamma Mia island is Skiathos. This is where the movie (part 1) was set.
How to get to greek islands: almost all of the greek islands have direct flights from Athens ( Booking.com Flights has all the options) but you can always take a ferry from Athens (check Ferryhopper website for timetables and prices – Piraeus or Rafina Athens main ports )
Most romanic greek island: Santorini (but each one can be romantic if you want it to…)
How to avoid tourist crowds and cruise ships on greek islands: visit in late September or early October
How to get around on greek islands: all islands have local buses and taxis (no Uber or Lyft unfortunately) that run frequently but it is highly recommended that you rent your own means of transportation as it will give you more flexibility and let you visit more areas on any island ( Rentalcars.com is the cheapest and safest website to rent a car for greek islands)
MY TIPS: if this is your first time in Greece you should start with the Cyclades islands fist (Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos) and then at your second trip visit Crete and leave for your third trip the Ionian islands like Corfu or Kefalonia; the main reason for this is that what you probably have in mind as a greek island is what Mykonos, Santorini or Paros look like. Also, unless this is your very first time in Greece (and even so I do not highly recommend it more than once) try to fly to a greek island instead of taking the ferry. Ferries in Greece are very expensive, very slow and very unreliable. Oh and before I forget it… you need to hire a car at almost every greek island so that you explore them at your ease and be independent.

Ok….so without further ado, these are the best greek islands :

1. santorini.

Santorini is the most famous greek island and there are many good reasons for that.

Santorini on Google Maps

Believe all the hype and all the instagram pictures you have seen. This island is amazing and you have to visit it! This is indeed one of the best greek islands (even though there are a lot of haters…)

When it comes to honeymoons, Santorini is the place to have your ideal honeymoon as the island offers some of the most romantic hotels in Europe . It is indeed the ideal location for couples but it has lots of things to do for families and solo travellers too.

There is a ton of things to do in Santorini and there is no shortage of activities and amazing restaurants you can visit and enjoy a romantic dinner.

Best Time To Visit Santorini Island

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Best Time To Visit Santorini
The best time to visit Santorini is late September, early October or early June where the sea water will still be warm enough to swim, all businesses/hotels will be open (this is still high season) and you won’t find the millions of tourists that July and August have. This is also called the “shoulder season” as it is not in the middle of the high season (July, August and September) which is the peak season really.
If you visit Santorini in the winter (between November-May ) then you won’ t be able to swim in the sea and you may get strong winds and cold weather (below 10 degrees Celsius). Also, most of the businesses will be closed and you should stay in Fira town as it will be the liveliest place.

How To Get To Santorini Island

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Athens to Santorini
With a 5hrs or 8hrs direct ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina ports) – Book your Ferry ticket to Santorini here
The price of the ferry ticket to Santorini is from 30 euros to 80 euros (depending on the ferry speed and the seat)
With a direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – check flights on Booking.com Flights
With a direct flight from all the major European capitals (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome) – only during the high season between April and October mostly (always check Booking.com Flights because flights change every year)

Where To Stay in Santorini

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Where To Stay in Santorini
The best area to stay in Santorini is called Imerovigli ( this is it on Google Maps ).
Oia is packed with tourists, overpriced and I do not recommend it, in general.
The sunset is the same from Imerovigli and also from Fira.
The best hotels of Santorini are located in Imerovigli.
If you cannot afford Imerovigli (get prepared to pay at least $200/night unfortunately) then you should stay at a hotel close to the beach ( Perissa , Kamari or Perivolos ) but you won’t have the famous Santorini views.
If you are visiting with your family with kids or seniors then staying close to the beach is the best option ( Perissa , Kamari or Perivolos )
If you are visiting Santorini in the winter (November-April) then the best place to stay is the capital called “Fira” as this is the liveliest place (all beach town will be empty in the winter)

Best Hotels in Santorini

Cosmopolitan Suites : one of the most luxurious hotels in Santorini with amazing views and close to all shops and main restaurants of the island at the capital town Fira. Show Prices
Grace Hotel Santorini : the most impressive swimming pool in Europe and 5-star luxury with stunning views at Imerovigli – perfect hotel for honeymoons with very seclusive suites and villas. Show Prices
Maregio Suites : the best hotel in Oia with stellar service and some of the best hot tubs and private plunge pools of the island; also one of the best honeymoon suites in Santorini… Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Santorini

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Best Things To Do In Santorini
Visit a winery: if you don’t have much time visit Santowines winery or take a winery tour
Enjoy the beach life , the beach bars and the sea restaurants of Santorini beaches (Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, Ammoudi)
Go on a Sunset Cruise ( like this one )
Hike the path from Fira to Oia ( more details here )
Enjoy the nightlife of Santorini (mainly at Fira town)
Watch a movie under the stars at Kamari Open Air Cinema ( Google Maps )
Visit the Ancient Akrotiri (alone or with a highly recommended guide )

Best Restaurants In Santorini

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Best Restaurants in Santorini
Metaxy Mas ( Google Maps )
Avocado ( Google Maps )
Panorama ( Google Maps )
Katina’s in Ammoudi ( Google Maps )
Anogi ( Google Maps )
Aroma Avlis ( Google Maps )
Lucky’s ( Google Maps ) and Pitogyros ( Google Maps ) for souvlaki greek street food

Mykonos is the second most famous greek island with millions of tourists every year.

Mykonos on Google Maps

Mykonos is all about the amazing nightlife, incredible parties, celebrities boats and lovely sandy beaches. Mykonos though has some of the most amazing beaches and beach bars in the world.

Some of the most famous chefs in the world have established restaurants in Mykonos and some of the most famous DJs play every year in the nightclubs of Mykonos.

But Mykonos is not only about partying.

The island offers amazing opportunities for a relaxing trip as it has some of the best hotels in Greece with incredible 5 star service and amenities.

Also, Mykonos main town (also called Chora) is one of the most picturesque and cute among the greek islands.

Best Time To Visit Mykonos Island

The best time to visit Mykonos is pretty much the same as it is in Santorini: late September, early October or early June . This is when the sea water will still be warm enough to swim and all hotels and restaurants will be open (September and October is still high season).
July and August are the worst months to visit Mykonos as you will be packed on every beach you visit and in every town you walk!
The prices on everything in Mykonos (from accommodation to restaurants) skyrocket in July and August.

How To Get To Mykonos Island

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Athens to Mykonos
With a 3hrs or 5hrs direct ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina ports) – Book your Ferry ticket to Mykonos here
The cost of the ferry varies from 30 euros to 80 euros (depending on the ferry speed and the seat)
With a direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – you can book flights on Booking.com Flights (Mykonos airport JMK)
With a direct flight from all the major European capitals (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome) – only during the high season between April and October mostly (always check Booking.com Flights because the flights change every year)

Where to Stay In Mykonos

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Where To Stay In Mykonos
The best area to stay in Mykonos is Mykonos Town (the capital) ( this is it on Google Maps ) .
Mykonos Town is the best place to stay if you want to enjoy the nightlife of Mykonos and the best restaurants and bars of the island
If you are visiting with family and kids and you want a much quieter area, then you should stay in Ornos or Platis Gyalos areas which are also beach side villages with some really good hotels.
Avoid staying in areas like Kalo Livadi or Elia beach because apart from the amazing beach there is nothing else around and you will need a car to get around if you stay there.

Best Hotels In Mykonos

Rocabella Mykonos Hotel : Possibly one of the most instagrammable hotels of Mykonos, with one of the most incredible swimming pools on the island. Show Prices
Bill & Coo Suites & Lounge : This is a truly 5-star hotel with one of the best restaurants of Mykonos and impeccable design. Show Prices
Lyo Boutique Hotel : This is a truly 5-star hotel with one of the best restaurants of Mykonos and impeccable design. Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Mykonos

Go to a beach: Mykonos beaches are some of the best in Greece (and in Europe) so don’t miss out on these ones – all of them have golden sand and crystal clear blue waters; the thing is that most of them are occupied by expesnive and luxurius beach bar restaurants but nothing and nobody is blocking you to sit down with your towels; sitting on a sunbed though might cost you anything from 20 euros to…3000 euros…!
Eat at some of the most amazing restaurants in Greece: Mykonos is full of famous restaurants and chances are you will be dining next to a celebrity
Go on an island cruise to Delos and Rhenia cute nearby islands: Delos was an ancient island that is only inhabited by cats today!
Enjoy the amazing Mykonos Nightlife in places such as Skorpios , Scandinavian Bar or Cavo Paradiso
Visit a traditional Mykonos home and take a Greek Cooking Class

Best Restaurants In Mykonos

Just to warn you: Mykonos is super expensive so get prepared to pay New York, London and Tokyo prices at the restaurants.

To Maereio ( Google Maps )
Apallosa ( Google Maps )
Alegro ( Google Maps )
Souvlaki Story ( Google Maps ) – for yummy souvlaki…
Matsuhisa Mykonos ( Google Maps ) – the famous one
Captain’s ( Google Maps )
Joanna’s Nikos Taverna ( Google Maps ) – the original one

Crete is the biggest greek island and definitely one of the most beautiful in the meditteranean sea.

Crete on Google Maps

Crete is a big island. It’s almost the size of Hawaii ‘s big island , so you definitely need a car to move around.

Crete is famous for its unique beaches , the amazing local food and produce, the hospitality of its local people and the thousands of years of history .

Honestly though, Crete beaches are out of this world…

Crete is full of impressive hotels and all-inclusive resorts that make it an ideal destination if you are in the hunt for an islands that has everything.

The biggest cities of Crete are Chania (West), Rethymnon (West), Heraklion (East), Aghios Nikolaos (East). In fact, Heraklion city (the capital of Crete) is the 4th biggest city in Greece (population wise).

It is not advised to visit Crete for 2-3 days.

You need at least a week in Crete and even during that time you will only be able to see 20-30% of the island.

You definitely need your own means of transportation in Crete (preferably a car) unless you will only be staying in your all inclusive resort and you are not interested to see the rest of the island.

Best Time To Visit Crete Island

The best time to visit Crete is in late September or early October. Crete is one of the hottest places in Greece (and one of the northest) so the summer lasts till November…
July and August are still the most crowded months but the island is so big that you won’t be annoyed by the tourist masses even during these months
Crete is relatively cheaper than other greek islands because it is a big island with thousands of businesses to choose from. Obviously the most touristic areas will have more expensive prices (restaurants, hotels, shops)

How To Get To Crete

With a 7hrs , 10hrs or 12hrs direct ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina ports) to Heraklion or Chania cities – Book your Ferry ticket to Crete here
With a direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – you can book flights on Booking.com Flights (Chania airport: CHQ and Heraklion: HER)
There is also a direct flight from all major European capitals (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome) – mainly between April and October ( check Booking.com Flights for specific schedules)
You can fly directly to Chania or Heraklion city as this is where the biggest airports of the island are.
It not advisable to visit Crete for 1-2 days because you will be missing a lot…You should dedicate you entire holidays to Crete. So, you should not start thinking of combining a trip to Santorini and Mykonos with 1-2 days in Crete. They are connected with ferries but it’s not worth it.

Where to Stay In Crete

READ THE DETAILED GUIDE: Where To Stay In Crete
The best area to stay in Crete is the west side of the island in or around Chania town ( this is it on Google Maps ).
The west side of Crete has the best beaches and the most impressive hotels but there are amazing resorts in other areas too ( Elounda Beach Hotel is probably the best hotel of Crete and it’s in Elounda on the east side of Crete)
If you are visiting with family and kids then staying close to Chania is also the most preferable option and renting a villa in Crete is generally a very wise option too as the island has lots of them.
Avoid staying in very remote areas or up in the mountains (there are lots of villas located in the mountains of Crete) as you will be very isolated and the road network of Crete is in very bad condition
Avoid staying in Heraklion as unfortunately it is not a pretty city; Chania , Rethymnon and Agios Nikolaos are the most picturesque towns you can stay

Best Hotels In Crete

Elounda Beach Hotel : Undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Greece. You will be having the aegean sea on your balcony and 5-star service 24/7. One of the best hotels in Europe! Show Prices
Amirandes Grecotel Resort : Located on a private beach between palm trees and a sea lagoon this is the best resort close to Hearklion city. With more than 10 restaurants and lots of shops this is probably the most impressive all inclusive resort of Crete. Show Prices
Mitsis Rineia Beach Resort & Spa : One of the best spas in Greece and Crete with lots of spaces for kids and families. An ideal all inclusive resort for families with amenities for everyone. Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Crete

Visit the amazing Knossos Palace ancient ruins (close to Heraklion which also has an mpressive archaeological museum) – a guided tour like this one is highly recommended as there are lots of things to see and learn from Minoan history; this is one of the most impressive archaeological sites all over Greece so it’s a must-do!
Visit the incredible beaches of Balos lagoon and Elafonissi : These are 2 of the most impressive beaches in the world with the most impressive sea waters you will ever find; these are easily compared to Maldives
Wander the picturesque towns of Chania and Rethymnon and go for shopping
Take the boat and visit the famous island ex-lepran colony of Spinalonga (featured in many films and books)
Taste some of the best olive oil in the world and learn about olive oil production in Crete through the incredible Terra Creta Olive Oil Experience
Visit the unique palm tree forest of Vai beach ( Google Maps )
Hike the wild Samaria Gorge alone or with a guided tour like this one

Best Restaurants In Crete

Cretan food is probably the best in Greece and you will be surprised by the large portions and the free stuff you will be offered in every restaurant (free fruits, deserts and local drinks at the end of the meal):

Gramboussa ( Google Maps )
Tamam ( Google Maps )
Peskesi ( Google Maps )
Central Park ( Google Maps )
Thraka ( Google Maps )
Saradari ( Google Maps )
Karnagio ( Google Maps )

Corfu is one of the bigest islands in Greece and it has a completely different landscape compared to Santorini and Mykonos. The scenery is much greener but the sea water is still incredibly blue and crystal clear.

Corfu on Google Maps

Corfu is an island at the sea between Italy and Greece (Ioanian sea) and the italian and venetian influence is spread all over the island.

The greek name of Corfu is: Kerkira

Corfu has been a famous tourist destination for the last 70 years and there are many good reasons for that. The island is full of beautiful beaches and picturesque towns and villages.

You need at least a week in Corfu as it is a pretty big island.

It is nearly impossibel to combine a visit to Corfu along with another greek island like Santorini or Mykonos because these islands are on the other side of Greece and you need to travel through Athens. Doable but not smart…

Best Time To Visit Corfu

The best time to visit Corfu is in September. Corfu is on the north-west side of Greece and this means that temperatures get colder by the end of September and rains start. This does not happen in southern Greece or Crete for example, so it’s good to have that in mind.
Avoid by any means July and August as Corfu is very crowded during these months and you will pay extraordinary prices on everything (along with bad service most of the times…)
Corfu is one of the most touristic islands in Europe that attracts people from western Europe and Scandinavia mainly.

How To Get To Corfu

There is no ferry from Athens to Corfu. There is only a flight that connects Athens to Corfu.
But there is also a 1.5hr ferry service that connects Corfu to Igoumenitsa (a town opposite Corfu which is about 5hrs drive from Athens) – Book your Ferry ticket to Corfu here
The easiest way to get to Corfu is to take the direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – you can book flights on Booking.com Flights (Corfu airport: CFU)
There is also a direct flight from all major European capitals and big cities (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome, Manchester, Newcastle, Madrid, Barcelona, Warsaw, Oslo, Hamburg, Hanover, Stuttgart etc) – mainly between April and October ( check Booking.com Flights for specific schedules)
There are no direct flights to Corfu from outside of Europe (like USA, Australia, India or elsewhere).
You should not think of visiting Corfu along with the other famous greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos as they are not connected. You have to travel through Athens and literally take 2 flights. Doable but silly, as you will be wasting too much time in transfers.

Where to Stay In Corfu

The best area to stay in Corfu is Corfu main town as it will give you the opportunity to explore the island and also enjoy a venetian old city from within.
If you want a quiet and picturesque area close to the beach then Paleokastritsa is your best bet as it has plenty of hotels and it’s next to turquoise waters and pine trees forests.
Paleokastritsa is also very good if you are visiting with family
Avoid staying in Kavos as it is a famous teenagers’ resort with cheap nightlife… (unless this is what you are actually looking for obviously)

Best Hotels In Corfu

Corfu Imperial Grecotel Resort : One of the most impressive and largest hotels in Greece at an amazing location with lots of swimming pools and incredible 5 star services (including one of the best breakfast buffets in Greece…) Show Prices
Bella Venezia Hotel : This is undoubtedly the best hotel in Corfu town and it really feels you will be staying at a venetian palace! Service is always very good and you won’t be disappointed by the breakfast options and the lovely views of the old town of Corfu. Show Prices
Lena Mare Boutique Hotel : A small oasis, a little boutique hotel with some of the best reviews online. Excellent and friendly owners that would take the extra step to make your stay unforgettable. Location is also perfect at a 10 mins walk from the lovely beach of Acharavi. Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Corfu

One of the best things you can do in Corfu is simply…to wander in the old town of Corfu which is truly unique and extremely beautiful with thousands of photo opportunities…!
Visit the unique Palaiokastritsa monastery , located in a magnificent location with stunning sea views.
Take a cruise to the blue Lagoon and the incredible islands of Paxoi and Sivota (check prices and times here).
Visit the impressive Achilleion Palace of Sisi the empress of Austria where she used to spend her summer holidays back in the 1800’s.

Best Restaurants In Corfu

There is no shortage of amazing restaurants in Corfu but these are the best of the best!

Venetian Well ( Google Maps )
Veranda Taverna ( Google Maps )
Corfu Sailing ( Google Maps )
Da Giovanni Aglio e Olio ( Google Maps )
Avli ( Google Maps )
Nautilus ( Google Maps )

5. Zakynthos (Zante)

Zakynthos (or Zante) island is another famous greek ionian island in the sea between Greece and Italy with landscapes similar to Corfu (lots of green pine trees forests) and of course the famous Navagio Beach that you may have seen all over Youtube and Instagram the last years.

Zakynthos on Google Maps

Zante is a pretty big island (6 times the size of Santorini) which has become a famous tourist destination for people from all over the world

Zakynthos is also called “Zante” .

You should not combine a visit to Zakynthos with another greek island because it is not easily accessible.

Though the main town of Zakynthos is not as picturesque as Corfu, it is still a beautiful island town and the island has lots of picturesque villages by the sea.

Best Time To Visit Zakynthos

The best time to visit Zakynthos is in June or July when the weather will be hot but the island won’t be that crowded as it is in August.
You can still visit Zante in August but availability will be low and prices higher.
The weather might not be that good in September or October with lots of rains. Also, winter is not advisable for a trip to Zakynthos because the island gets pretty much deserted with only locals and quite cold weather.

How To Get To Zakynthos

The best way to get to Zakynthos is by taking a direct flight to the island.
There is also a 1.5hr ferry service that connects Zakynthos to Killini (a town opposite Zakynthos which is about a 3hrs drive from Athens) – Book your Ferry ticket to Zante here (you should put Killini as your departure port but bear in mind that you have to take a bus from Athens to Killini first)
The easiest way to get to Zakynthos though is to take a direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – you can book flights on Booking.com Flights (Zante airport: ZTH)
There is also a direct flight from all major European capitals and big cities (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome, Manchester, Newcastle, Madrid, Barcelona, Warsaw, Oslo, Hamburg, Hanover, Stuttgart etc) – mainly between April and October ( check Booking.com Flights for specific schedules)
There are no direct flights to Zakynthos from outside of Europe.
There are no flights or ferries connecting Zakynthos with other greek islands (sometimes there is a 30mins flight to Kefalonia island but that is not happening every year so always check Booking.com Flights first)

Where to Stay In Zakynthos

The best area to stay in Zakynthos is the main town (capital) as it will allow you to be in a central location to explore the island (yes, you need to rent a car in Zakynthos)
Avoid staying in Laganas as it is a famous teenagers’ resort with cheap nightlife… (unless this is what you are actually looking for obviously)
If you want to stay near the beach then you should stay close to Gerakas or Dafni beaches

Best Hotels In Zakynthos

Lesante Blu : One of the most impressive infinity swimming pools in Ionian islands and 5 star service from expert stuff. The hotel is brand new so all facilities are very good! Show Prices
Olea All Suite Hotel : A unique quiet hotel with impressive architecture and amazing views. The private suites with the pools are some of the best in Greece and the hotel in general is ideal for relaxing and calming holidays. Show Prices
Exensian Villas & Suites : Stone-built private villas with amazing views to the turtle island and great swimming pools. The villas are built in olive tree plantations and are the perfect place for quiet and relaxing holidays. Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Zakynthos

Simply, the best thing you can do in Zakynthos is to visit the famous Navagio Beach. It’s a smart thing to do that with a guided tour like this 8hr guided tour and cruise to Navagio beach and the blue Caves.
Visit all the other beautiful beaches of Zakynthos like: Dafni, Gerakas, Agios Sostis, Makris Gialos, Kalamaki, Tsilivi
Go for caretta caretta sea turtle watching to the beautiful small island of Marathonisi. There are organised excursions to the turtle island where you will be snorkelling next to sea turtles if you get lucky. T his turtle boat tour is one of the best in Zante.
Visit the beautiful Grampsas Winery ( Google Maps ) and do some winetasting in a lovely location.

Best Restaurants In Zakynthos

Apart from amazing food , Zakynthos is home to some extraordinary wineries with some seriously good greek wine. These are some of the best restaurants in Zante:

Komis Fish Tavern ( Google Maps )
Spartakos Taverna ( Google Maps )
Peppermint ( Google Maps )
Essence ( Google Maps )
Prosilio ( Google Maps )

6. Kefalonia (or Cephalonia)

Kefalonia or Cephalonia is one more greek island in the ioanian sea between Greece and Italy that you should really visit if you are looking for green scenery, beautiful fish villages and emerald mediterranean waters.

Kefalonia on Google Maps

Kefalonia is the 6th largest island in Greece and it is 10 times larger than Santorini… so have that in mind when you are thinking of renting a car (yes, you definitely need to rent a car in Kefalonia).

Kefalonia cannot easily be combined with a visit to other greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini or Crete because it is in the Ionian sea like Corfu or Zante.

It is only advisable then to combine it with a visit to Corfu or Zante otherwise you have to travel through Athens which is going to be quite expensive and time wasting if you only have a few days.

Kefalonia has many pretty villages (Fiskardo, Assos and Skala being the most famous ones) and it is one of the greenest islands in Greece.

The island is perfect for family holidays and it has some really good opportunities for boat excursions in the surrounding emerald waters.

Best Time To Visit Kefalonia

The best time to visit Kefalonia is also (like Corfu or Zante) in June or July. The weather will be pretty hot and the island won’t feel that crowded as in August.
As a general rule of thumb for greek islands: avoid August by all means as it is also the month that the greeks go on holidays, which also makes things even worse for availability and prices…
Winter is not particularly enjoyable in Kefalonia as there is no life in the beautiful beach areas and you may find seriously bad weather (lots of rain and wind) at any time

How To Get To Kefalonia

The best way to get to Kefalonia is by taking a direct flight (either from Athens or from a European city) to the island.
There is also a 2hrs ferry service that connects Kefalonia to Patra or Killini (Patra is 2 hrs drive/bus from Athens and Kilini is about a 3hrs drive/bus from Athens) – Book your Ferry ticket to Kefalonia here (you should put Killini or Patra as your departure port but bear in mind that you have to take a bus from Athens to Killini or Patra first)
The easiest way to get to Kefalonia though is to take a direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – you can book flights on Booking.com Flights (Kefalonia airport: EFL)
There is also a direct flight from all major European capitals and big cities (London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome, Manchester, Newcastle, Madrid, Barcelona, Warsaw, Oslo, Hamburg, Hanover etc) – mainly between April and October ( check Booking.com Flights for specific schedules)
There are no direct flights to Kefalonia from outside of Europe.
There are no flights or ferries connecting Kefalonia with other greek islands (sometimes there is a 30mins flight to Zakynthis island but that is not happening every year so always check Booking.com Flights first)
If you want to visit other greek islands from Kefalonia then your main option is Zakynthos, Lefkada or Ithaca through local ferry boats (no need to book online you can just check these out when you are there)

Where to Stay In Kefalonia

The best area to stay in Kefalonia is the capital town Argostoli because you won’t be that isolated and you may also use the public buses more easily as they all go through the city center.
If you want to be closer to the beach you should stay at the picturesque Assos, Skala, Poros or Fiskardo villages but you will need to have your own means of transportation or basically spend most of your time there (still ok as these places are lovely)
Alternative locations for staying are the beautiful second largest town of Lixouri and the picturesque beachfront town of Sami

Best Hotels In Kefalonia

F Zeen Hotel : Exceptional service, amazing views and a stunning swimming pool at Lourdata. A very relaxing and calming environment (mostly for adults though) but overall an impressive brand new hotel with very caring stuff. Show Prices
Kefalonia Grand : The best hotel in Kefalonia’s capital Argostoli with stunning views to the quiet port and yummy breakfasts. An excellent option if you want to stay in Argostoli. Show Prices
Emelisse Nature Resort : Just minutes away from the fabulous small beach of Emplisi this chic hotel is ideal if you want to relax by the pool surrounded by pine and olive trees and also be close to the famous Fiskardo fish village. The awesome breakfast is also a big plus! Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Kefalonia

One of the best things you can do in Kefalonia is to visit the unique beaches of the island like Myrtos (many times voted as the best beach in the world), Platis Gialos, Petani, Emplisi, Antisamos and many more
Take a boat trip to see the famous Melissani Cave ( this tour is very good )
Go hiking at the national natural park of mount Ainos ; one of the most beautiful mountains in Greece.
Visit the extremely interesting museum of Ancient Greek Technology ( Google Maps )

Best Restaurants In Kefalonia

Kefalonia is a pretty big island and there is no shortage of amazing family restaurants but also really unique flavours and diverse greek dishes all over the island.

Ladokolla stin Plagia ( Google Maps )
Olive Lounge Bar & Restaurant ( Google Maps )
Captain Nicolas ( Google Maps )
Deco Mediterranean Cuisine ( Google Maps )
Katelios Grill House ( Google Maps )
Anemos ( Google Maps )
3 Umbrellas ( Google Maps )

Rhodes is the 4th largest greek island and it really resembles Malta in many ways (the old town, the castle, the beaches…), though Rhodes it’s 5 times the size of Malta.

Just to give you the scale of its size: Rhodes is 20 times bigger than Santorini…!

Rhodes has some of the most impressive and well established hotels and resorts in Greece and all large tour operators in Europe have all inclusive (or not packages) for Rhodes as it has been an extremely popular destination since the 60’s.

Rhodes on Google Maps

Rhodes belongs to the Dodecanese islands group of Greece and it is the furthest of all islands on this list, from Athens (still within 1hr flight though).

Rhodes cannot easily be combined with a visit to any other island ; the island is pretty big and you should better dedicate at least a week to explore it and have a good time without any rush.

Apart from that, Rhodes is not well connected with other famous islands in Cyclades (like Santorini or Mykonos) and you will waste to much time and money in transfers as you may have to go back to Athens.

Rhodes beaches can be long and sandy and the whole island with its beautiful old town is in general very well organised touristically (compared to other islands).

The island is an ideal destination for holidays with kids and if you are looking for an all inclusive in Greece, chances are you will find it in Rhodes or in Crete. Many people say consider Rhodes the all-inclusive capital of Greece…!

Best Time To Visit Rhodes

The best time to visit Rhodes is May, June or late September and October. The island is literally packed with tourists in July and August (though it won’t feel that packed as Santorini or Mykonos for example) because it is pretty big.
The good thing about Rhodes is that the island is so big that it is actually quite lively even in the winter or low season months between November-April.

How To Get To Rhodes

The best way to get to Rhodes is by taking a direct flight (either from Athens or from any European city) to the island.
There are also ferries that connect Athens (Piraeus port) to Rhodes but they literally take ages to arrive (more than 15hrs on average!) and I would never advise anyone to waste 15 hours of her/his life and bore to death in a slow ferry to Rhodes… Book your Ferry ticket to Rhodes here
The easiest and fastest way to get to Rhodes is to take a direct 1hr flight from Athens (all year) – you can book flights on Booking.com Flights (Rhodes airport: RHO)
There are no direct flights to Rhodes from outside of Europe.
The great thing about Rhodes is that it’s very well connected with a few hrs ferries to all the surrounding Dodecanese greek islands like: Kos, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Ikaria, Samos and even Crete (though it’s not advised to combine a trip to Rhodes with a trip to Crete as you need at least a week on each island)
You can even take a ferry to Turkey from Rhodes (Marmaris) – always check Ferryhopper website first because ferry schedules change every year

Where to Stay In Rhodes

The best area to stay in Rhodes is either the charming old town or Lindos because you will be able to have access to the best restaurants, the beautiful beaches and also be able to access the main tourist attractions of the island.
If you decide to stay at an all inclusive resort (there are some good ones in Rhodes) then… it doesn’t really matter as you won’t spend much time outside of your resort but it will be good if you are closer to the old town as it is always nice to spend a night there for a dinner.
Avoid staying in Faliraki as it is a famous teenagers’ resort with cheap nightlife (unless that’s what you are looking for)
Staying in the new town of Rhodes is also not advisable either as it might feel you live in the center of a big greek city (like Athens) whereas there are much more beautiful locations on the island (like Ialyssos for example)

Best Hotels In Rhodes

Mitsis Alila Resort & Spa : Possibly one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Greece and in Rhodes. Exceptional 5 star service at a hotel that has everything…sushi restaurants, greek restaurants, spa, massive buffets and even a pizza oven on its private beach! Show Prices
10GR Hotel : Hands down the most unique hotel in Rhodes and a a very artistic building that will make your accommodation very special in the old town of Rhodes. Drinking a glass of greek wine on these colourful patios can be unforgettable… Show Prices
Casa Cook Rhodes : A brand new hotel, designed to perfection and serviced to absolute relaxation and tranquility. As this is an adults only hotel this can be the ideal getaway for couples. Not to mention that literally everything on the hotel is instagrammable! Show Prices

Best Things To Do In Rhodes

Undoubtedly the highlight of Rhodes is the old medieval town of Rhodes with its castles and stone-paved allays
Visit the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights which is a beautiful castle which is now home to the museum of medieval Rhodes. Yes, the place might be packed of tourists in the high season but be patient and you won’t regret it…
Hike in the “Valley of Butterflies” in a lovely natural park filled with thousands of butterflies ( Google Maps )
Visit and swim at the beautiful beaches of the island: Tsambika , Faliraki , Traounou, Pefkos, Traganou, Lindos and many more
Wander the beautiful streets of picturesque village of Lindos
Go an a day cruise to the beautiful nearby island of Symi – this one is very good

Best Restaurants In Rhodes

The italian influence is still vivid in Rhodes cuisine but there are so many options and good restaurants to choose from that you won’t be disappointed:

Mageirotechneio Paraga ( Google Maps )
Wonder ( Google Maps )
Mea Terra ( Google Maps )
Ambrosia ( Google Maps )
To Marouli ( Google Maps )
Kerasma ( Google Maps )

Naxos is one of the largest greek islands and the largest in Cyclades island complex. It’s one of my personal favourites…

Naxos is 6 times bigger than Santorini…!

Naxos has long and sandy beaches that can be hit by strong winds in times during the summer which has actually made the island a surfers’ paradise the last years.

There are however lots of beautiful beaches and picturesque villages you can visit with the most unique one being the famous Apeiranthos village.

Naxos on Google Maps

Naxos can easily be combined with a trip to Santorini but it’s an island that you need to spend at least 3 days to appreciate it. The good thing is that the ferries that go to Santorini and Mykonos (especially the Blue Star Ferries) connect both islands very well.

12. Skiathos

2 thoughts on “Best Greek Islands To Visit”

you are out of date re faliraki. club18-30 ceased trading a few years ago. the resort now is popular with couples & families sting in all inclusive hotels

Good to know! Thanks for the update!

TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Santorini: Canaves Oia Suites Mykonos: Cavo Tagoo Mykonos Athens: Coco-Mat Athens Crete: Domes Noruz Chania Hotel Corfu: Corfu Imperial Resort Rhodes: Casa Cook Rhodes

Delphi: Amalia Hotel

Meteora: Doupiani House

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Santorini: Villa Aura

Mykonos: Villa Evi

Athens: Acropolis Villa

Crete: Cavo Dago Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GREECE:

🌄 Santorini Sunset Cruise

🥾 Samaria Gorge Full Day Hike

🏛️ Acropolis Guided Tour

🪨 Meteora Day Trip from Athens

🏛️ Delphi Day Trip from Athens

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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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!)

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

Santorini Secrets

The 11 Most Incredible Greek Islands to Visit From Santorini

Santorini is unquestionably one of the most bucket-list isles in the Aegean. It magnetizes travelers of all sorts – honeymooners, photographers, hikers, foodies – with the promise of one of the most startling terrains on the planet. Come to encounter soaring volcanic cliffs, whitewashed villages topped by blue Orthodox church domes, and some of the most epic sunsets ever. But there are also other Greek islands to visit from Santorini …

Yep, a trip to this iconic spot in the heart of the Cyclades chain shouldn’t be only about Santorini itself. There are a whole host of surrounding islands that are within a quick (and perhaps not-quite-so-quick) ferry journey. They include the rugged shores of Milos and the party isles of Mykonos and Ios, but also the lesser-known destinations of Folegandros and lovely little Anafi.

Interested? Read on. In this guide we’ll list 11 of the top Greek islands to visit from Santorini . We’ll cover the crème-de-la-crème of the day-trip options and offer a few suggestions for other isles that could be that next stop on a cross-Aegean island-hopping itinerary. Prep the passport. Let’s dive in…

Table of Contents

You can’t miss Thirasia – it’s the rugged rock that sits in the heat haze just west of Santorini’s main caldera ridge. Once upon a time, it was a part of Santorini itself. But that was before it was wrenched from the side by the eruption of the ancient mega volcano in 1,600 BC. Today, the isle is a famous daytrip destination from Fira , offering a vision of a sleepier, altogether less touristic corner of the Cyclades.

You’ll probably arrive into Agia Eirini. It’s the small wisp of white-painted cottages and windmills on the northwest shore. It’s a great place to launch hiking expeditions through the countryside. Walking from one end of Thirasia to the other takes little more than an hour each way, and you get to see cute churches and canyons carved out by lava flows.

The town of Manolas is the one center of the island. Like with the villages of Santorini before it, it clings to a jagged ridge and offers seriously gorgeous views, only this time they are looking back at the volcanic caldera from the west – better for sunrise than sunset!

Oh, Mykonos . Next to Santorini, this is arguably the most famous member of the Cyclades chain. Just a mention of the name is usually enough to conjure images of sun-splashed vacations by the crystal-clear Aegean Sea. Its rep as one of Greece’s R&R meccas has been further bolstered in recent years, as Mykonos has become a favorite holidaying spot for A-list celebs and movie stars.

Life on Mykonos largely happens on the west coast. That’s where you find the windmill-topped streets of Mykonos Town, all laced with cool cafés and chic drinking establishments, not to mention arguably the best fine-dining Greece has to offer. Move from there to find the handsome walks of Little Venice, a cluster of salt-washed tavernas and bars right by the water’s edge. Or, go south to the likes of Paraga Beach and Paradise Beach, where the drinking and chill-out tunes are typically in full flow by 2pm.

The route from Santorini to Mykonos has to be up there with the most traveled of the ferry routes in the Aegean. There’s a whopping four or five boats that do the connection each day in the midsummer months. The trip takes just over two hours from start to finish on most ferries.

Famed as the erstwhile home of arguably Greece’s most iconic ancient statue, the Venus de Milo , this C-shaped speck in the western Cyclades remains one of our favorite pitstops in the Aegean Sea. It’s just that it looks a whole load different from most of its counterparts. How? Well, the coastline is whittled into glowing white stone recesses and inlets, where turquoise lagoons form and grottoes carve deep under the cliffs. Cool, eh?

You should spend some time on a boat trip on Milos to really take in the majesty of the shores . Some of the most jaw-dropping areas are Sarakiniko in the north and Kleftiko in the south-west. We’d also recommend leaving time to delve into Milos’s ancient ruins – there are catacombs and even a Roman-era amphitheater close to the enchanting little hill village of Trypiti.

Getting to Milos from Santorini shouldn’t be very difficult. The connection is popular among travelers doing east-west island hopping from places like Rhodes back towards Athens and the Saronic Gulf. We’re talking a couple of ferries each day at least.

Folengandros

Just a touch east of Milos, around midway to Santorini, the outline of Folengandros is one you can hardly ignore. The 8-shaped isle lurches dramatically from the water in a mass of rust-tinged stone and sheer-cut cliffs. Agricultural terraces carve into the monoliths here and there. Other times, the mountains break into bands of pinkish rock that cascade straight down to boulder-dotted beaches. Amazing stuff.

We’d actually say that a sunset up at the high-perched Church of Panagia on Folegandros is one of the true bucket-list experiences of the Greek Aegean. Everyone on the island – like, everyone! – climbs up there around 6pm in the evening to enjoy the fading light. The views are nothing short of spectacular, as the horizon turns a haze of yellow and ochre and the white village below descends into shadow. Might it even beat Santorini at the golden hour? Big words. We’ll leave you to decide.

One thing’s for sure, getting from Santorini to Folegandros shouldn’t be too hard. There are regular ferries that go multiple times each day from the port in Thira. They typically take about one hour from start to finish. It’s probably wise to book yours in advance if you’re planning on going anytime in the high season months (May to August) – this route gets busy.

Ana…where? Yep, we know. We didn’t even believe this was a place, let alone one of the most popular Greek islands to visit from Santorini. Then we went there. And…wow! How the mega crowds haven’t yet descended upon little Anafi is an enigma to us. Still, we’re not complaining, because there’s serenity and natural beauty by the bucket load. Oh, and it all sits a mere 14 nautical miles from the eastern shoreline of Santorini.

Anafi and Santorini actually look pretty darn similar. They are both of volcanic origin , which is why you’ll find similarly dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes of rock-ribbed mountain peaks shooting straight out of the Aegean. Little Anafi also has a Mars-like backcountry of crumpled, brown-paper stone, dotted now and then with the shimmering wisp of a traditional whitewashed village.

What Anafi can offer that Santorini can’t is twofold. One, it’s way quieter than its pal in the west. Two, it’s got beaches; pristine, sandy beaches. We’d say Kleisidi Beach is the best of the bunch, but there’s also gorgeous Agios Nikolaos (great for snorkeling) and Agioi Anargyri, which is watched over by what we think is arguably the most romantic church in all of Greece!

There are as many as three or four ferry crossings from Santorini to Ios every day during the peak summer months between May and August. That makes this one of the most popular Greek islands to visit from Santorini. And we can see why it’s the obvious next choice after enjoying the clifftop villages of Oia and the sunsets from Thira …

Ios has a rep as the wildest party destination in the Greek Aegean. In that sense it’s a little like Mykonos, but the shindigs here are less chic, more off the hook. So, the crowd tends to be 18-30s, not A-list celebs. The action is spread between the open-air terraces of Mylopotas Beach (where the drinking starts early) and the center of Ios Hora (the main town). Nights typically end in one of the mega-clubs – Sweet Irish Dream and Rehab are two of the most popular.

Bear in mind that a jaunt to Ios doesn’t have to be about boogying until sunup. The trio of Mylopotas, Maganari Beach, and Yialos have established themselves as watersports meccas. Go to those to whiz on jet skis or practice your windsurfing skills. The inland Mount Pyrgos is also a draw for hikers who want to beat the hangover with a bit of exercise. It hosts the mysterious monastery of Agios Ioannis and a speckling of smaller Cycladic churches besides.

Cue the largest of the Cyclades: Naxos. Yep, this is one of the more obvious choices among the Greek islands to visit from Santorini. It’s not only big – several times the size of, say, Ios – but it’s also right next door to Paros, which is considered the main ferry hub of the central Aegean. The upshot? It should be a cinch to reach. In fact, there are direct ferries from Thira port to Naxos throughout the summer season, taking around 1h20. Easy.

The first port of call on Naxos is likely to be Hora town. It’s the main harbor, but also much more than that. It buzzes with life, tooting cars, and coffee-clinking tavernas. It’s got just a hint of Athens about it, and far more energy than many of the smaller marinas throughout the island chains. There’s also history, thanks largely to the ruined Venetian castle up on the cliffs overhead (look for it poking through the whitewashed Greek cottages).

Daylight hours are typically spent cruising between Naxos’s high-quality beaches. The best of them roll along the south and southwest shorelines. We particularly love Agios Prokopios (Caribbean-esque azure seas, hello!) and Mikri Vigla, which has cove swimming but also watersports. More adventurous travelers might want to challenge themselves to conquer Mt Zeus. It’s the highest summit in the Cyclades and the hike to the top station at 1004 meters is particularly wonderful.

There are few islands in Greece as off the beaten path as Sikinos. It’s strange though. This one’s wedged between the hedonistic party hub of Ios and gazes straight southwest towards Santorini. We can’t believe that it’s not really stepped into the limelight and become a major island-hopping destination quite yet. Then again, we kinda’ hope it never does.

See…the joy of Sikinos is just how empty and remote and untouched it feels, especially when compared to its near neighbors. There’s really just a single town, located on the south coast at the marina of Alopronia. That links to the time-stood-still village of Kastro, hidden far up between the olive terraces and dusty mountain ridges inland.

There aren’t any direct ferries from Santorini to Sikinos. Instead, you’ll need to change boats at nearby Folengandros. That cranks up the journey time to just a tad under three hours in total. Still, Sikinos isn’t really made to be a day-trip destination. It’s best to experience it slow: Hiking the backcountry trails, visiting the haunting Greek monastery, tasting the wine – you get the idea.

Rhodes isn’t close to Santorini. In fact, it’s a whopping 155 miles away at the far eastern end of the Aegean Sea . However, it’s not inaccessible because there’s a long-distance ferry that goes overnight during the high season, leaving about two or three times each week. You’ll need to book that in advance. Limited space means that tickets often go quick.

The joy here is that you get to hit a whole different part of the country. Rhodes is the gateway to the Dodecanese chain, a land on the very fringes of Turkey that enjoys some of the hottest weather in Greece.

Rhodes town is where you’re likely to disembark. Take some time to wander that, as it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with medieval castles galore. Then, be sure to hit the coast road going south and west, which takes you through the party town of Faliraki and the lovely white village come family resort of Lindos.

Shaped like a fishhook in the middle of the Aegean just to the north-east of Santorini, Amorgos is one of those places that’s totally stunning and criminally under looked. You come here to escape the buzz of the Santorini promenades and enjoy Greece at a slower pace of life.

Days will be spent hiking the coastal trails to the incredible Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, wandering Chora town in search of old-world windmills, and seeking out beaches with rusting shipwrecks. It’s also a cracking locale for film buffs, who should be able to spot locations from Luc Besson’s legendary The Big Blue (1988).

The good news is that, even though it’s not that often visited, Amorgos does have commercial ferry links to Santorini. They take just over an hour and depart up to two times per day in the peak season.

Crete is a whole adventure in itself. It’s the largest island in the whole Aegean Sea, spreading a mega 160 miles from end to end. Here, you’ll discover a place that’s not quite like anywhere else in Greece. It’s beset by soaring mountains that breach 2,400 meters up, inhabited by hardy, stoic people, and even has its own unique cuisine.

There’s now about one daily ferry from Santorini to Heraklion during the high season months, along with other, less regular, links to the second-city of Chania. The first is the best gateway to eastern Crete, perfect for those looking to party their nights away in Malia and laze on the beach resorts. The latter is a stepping stone into western Crete, where dramatic hikes to the Samaria Gorge and exotic beaches like Balos await.

One thing that really helps Crete stand out from this crowd of Greek islands to visit from Santorini is that it tends to have a longer season than other places. You can arrive in early May and still get days in the mid-70s or come in late October and sun yourself.

Greek islands to visit from Santorini – a conclusion

This list of seven of the top Greek islands to visit from Santorini is just a taster of the amazing places you can go to after taking in the ancient collapsed caldera of Greece’s most popular sunset spot. You could also consider catching a longer, overnight ferry to break out to the islands in the far east of the Aegean (Rhodes, Symi, Kos ) or to get back to Athens for your fix of ancient history and city life.

Which island is closest to Santorini Greece?

The closest islands to Santorini have to be the small ones that share the same caldera, of which only little Therasia is inhabited. The closest island that isn’t part of the same land mass is Anafi, another volcanic rock with black-stone beaches and whitewashed towns but only a fraction of the crowds, a short ferry to the east.

What islands can you ferry to from Santorini?

You can catch a ferry to oodles and oodles of islands from Santorini. Because this is such a popular stop over on cross-Cyclades island-hopping tours, boats link it to most of the well-known neighboring isles – Mykonos, Ios, Naxos, Folengandros. There are also long-haul ferries that connect Santorini to Crete in the south, Athens in the north, and the Dodecanese islands out east. You shouldn’t be short of choices.

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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Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All

But if you look solely at the land itself, you might think you’re in an arid, coastal corner of the Middle East or Northern Africa —albeit one as fertile as the Nile Delta . (Crete, with its Mediterranean locale, supplies much of Europe with olives, grapes, cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, and more.) Perhaps it is Crete’s sheer size that allows it to take on these many faces and differentiate itself from white-painted islands like Santorini and Mykonos. A visit to those islands is perfect for the photobooks, but a visit to Crete is good for the story books. Not that there is any shortage of photos to be taken here. Trust us: Crete looks fantastic from every angle.

No two travelers have the same motivation for visiting Crete. For some, it’s the Minoan lore—one of Europe’s oldest major civilizations established nearly five millennia ago—and the ruins that come with such a visit. For others, it’s a chance to visit Greece but avoid the crowds of Athens, Santorini, etc. (while still getting a fair share of feta). Across Crete, travelers can hike, sail, swim, sun, wine, and dine, and even luxuriate at private resorts for a fraction of the cost of other Greek destinations. The island’s tallest peak is just 45 minutes by car from its most beautiful beach, and its core airports are an hour or three from most of Europe’s other capitals.

So if you want an island escape with historical layers, Crete has that. If you want recreation—from hiking to sailing to snorkeling—Crete has that. If you want wine, Crete has more than 70 family-owned vineyards. And if you want incomparable food… well, you know where we’re going with this. And you know where you’re going next: Here are some highlights to experience in Crete.

Best places for first timers to visit in Crete

The other must is a boat trip to Spinalonga island in the Elounda Bay, most easily reached from Agios Nikolaos , but also manageable from Heraklion . This ancient fortress served as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957 and is now uninhabited. The island also has pebbled beaches, so a visit can include both a fortress tour and some time relaxing by its shores.

Where to eat and drink like a local in Crete

As for the must-eat Cretan foods, you gotta start a few meals with dakos, which in execution look like a greek salad on soaked, open-faced rusk barley bread (though dakos is often served as a salad with crouton-style rusk cubes). It’s the oregano and capers that elevate it beyond your usual Greek salad. The next essential is kalitsounia, which are traditional fried appetizer pies. They can be open-faced or enclosed, similar to an empanada, and are typically topped or stuffed with cheese or spinach. Try them with honey for a sweet zing.

We dare you to try chochlioí boumpouristoí, a.k.a. fried snails, which are most popular in summer and well paired with tomatoes and thyme. But the kingpin is antikristo—yes, you read that right. This is a Cretan-style lamb spit-roast over a wire-caged flame. Chase any of it with zoumero, a moist chocolate cake drizzled in syrup and typically served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and as you pay the bill, take a tipple of raki. This pomace brandy is made from grapes and is upwards of 40% alcohol. Add an enthusiastic cheers (“Ya Mas!”) before you throw it back.

It’s reductive to suggest that any one Cretan restaurant is better than the next, and there is no shortage of options. But in terms of hospitality, ambiance, and a range of offerings, here are the best Cretan picks (rather than straight Greek) for the core cities.

In Heraklion, put Pasiphae atop your list for its traditional Minoan fare. You’ll find it on the outskirts of town near Knossos. Second to that is Peskesi for locally sourced, picture-perfect platters. In Chania, fancify things with Mon.Es ’s minimalist and purist take, or pick Kritamon for its unparalleled Cretan wine selection. As for Rethymno, Taverna Zisis is a generations-old family-style taverna, while To Parastratima serves up exquisite Cretan tapas. Lastly, in Agios Nikolaos, you’ve got the best slate of picks at the best prices, starting with Gioma Meze with its high-quality sea fare, as well as Ofou To Lo , where you can taste the catch of the day while gazing out over the sea where it was caught.

Nature and outdoor adventures in Crete

Hike to zeus’s birthplace or island hop around the island.

Gorges aside, more seasoned hikers might look to the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) themselves for a snow-capped victory. And if you like spelunking (and Greek lore to boot), then visit the Cave of Zeus (a.k.a. Psychro Cave/Dikteon Cave) in Lasithi, which is rumored to be Zeus’s birthplace. Many of the best beaches are secluded and pair a decent hike with a blue-expanse reward (see the next section for those).

Wine tasting is an ever-popular option in Crete, given the number of home-spun vineyards that span the island, primarily in Heraklion. For your own day trips and tasting tours, consider Scalarea Estate (with its own guest house ) or Lyrarakis just south of there.

In Crete, island hopping and sailing are also commonly sought-ought excursions—with stunning beaches (and activities like snorkeling) awaiting. Dia Island is the most common trip from Heraklion, typically visited by catamaran. Quiet Chrissi Island is popular from the southern shore (starting in Ierapetra), or you cansail to secluded beaches, like the popular Balos Lagoon via Kissamos in Chania.

Lounge on pink and white beaches

In Rethymnon, one of the best beaches is Preveli in the south, where palm groves line the Kourtaliotis River as it enters the sea. (Be ready to hike!) In Heraklion, head south to Agios Nikitas, a secluded oasis that requires a 16-kilometer drive off road (some might want to hire an expert to get there). And in Lasithi, Xerokambos (way out east) and Argilos (slightly west of Xerokampos) are top grade for their remoteness.

Crete hotels and other great places to stay

Now, hear us out: This visit is a terrific chance to stay at an all-inclusive retreat , too. We’re not suggesting you fly all the way to Crete to not explore the island, but it’s a great way to either settle in for a couple nights after a long-haul flight, or to wind down the trip with few logistics (not to mention, exquisite Cretan cuisine and private beaches). The easiest pick is Cretan Malia Park in Malia. You’d pay quadruple the asking price in rivaling islands or getaways, and few restaurants can compete with CMP’s onsite Mouries , serving up fare picked from the property’s own garden, as well as from nearby providers. And did we mention the private beach? (On top of that, it’s a family-friendly resort, if you’re traveling with kids.)

What to know before you go to Crete

Best times of the year to visit, crete’s time zone, the weather and climate, how to get around.

You can either base yourself out of one or two cities and make day trip excursions from there or rent a car and do a cross-island road trip. The island’s core cities are largely in the north, each an hour or two from one another, though its southern draws are of equal distance. Despite spanning all four regions, the south feels like its own region—almost by design, since the north is where most of the hotel-ized tourism takes place. Cretans seem to treasure the south (and its city of Ierapetra) for its general seclusion from the masses.

The currency

International adapters you’ll need.

Adam Hurly is a contributor for Thrillist.

Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All

The Best Greek Islands

Greece › Best Islands Updated: February 11, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Mykonos – Where to Stay • Santorini – Where to Stay • Naxos – Where to Stay • Paros – Where to Stay • Milos – Where to Stay • Crete – Where to Stay • Athens – Where to Stay

Santorini is the jewel of the Greek islands. A helicopter tour around the caldera and volcano (though not cheap) is a highlight.

The Best Islands in Greece Mykonos is known for nightlife , beaches , beach clubs , and fantastic luxury hotels . What Greek Island do I visit? Best Greek Island for Honeymoon : Santorini Best Greek Island to Party : Mykonos Best Greek Island for Couples : Santorini • Paros Best Greek Island for Young Couples & Singles : Ios • Mykonos Best Greek Island for First Timers : Santorini • Mykonos • Naxos Best Greek Island for Beaches : Naxos • Mykonos • Ios • Crete Naxos is a phenomenal island for first-time visitors to Greece. Fantastic beaches, great food, and very family-friendly. Plenty of spots for evening drinks but not the dance clubs and DJs like Mykonos or Santorini. Best Greek Island for Kids & Families : Naxos Best Greek Island for Teens : Santorini • Mykonos • Paros • Rhodes Best Greek Island for History : Crete • Rhodes • Santorini Best Greek Island for Hiking : Sifnos • Crete • Folegandros • Santorini • Naxos Best Greek Island for Biking : Kos Best Greek Island for Luxury : Santorini • Mykonos Best Greek Island for Quiet and Solitude : Antiparos • Folegandros • Ikaria • Karpathos Best Greek Island for Outdoor Activity : Crete • Santorini Best Greek Island for Food : Crete • Folegandros • Santorini • Naxos Best Greek Island Cruise : All cruises to the Greek islands are awful – don’t do a Greek Cruise , visit on your own Best for Island Hopping : Take Greek Ferries around the Cyclades: Santorini • Naxos • Paros • Ios • Mykonos • Milos The 6 Best Greek Islands

Book hotels 4 to 8 months in advance: Santorini Hotels • Mykonos Hotels • Crete Hotels • Milos Hotels • Naxos Hotels • Paros Hotels • Folegandros Hotels • Ios Hotels • Rhodes Hotels • Kos Hotels • Corfu Hotels • Athens Hotels 1. Santorini My favorite island in Greece is Santorini. If you can only visit one island make it Santorini. Loaded with great boat tours , wine tours , fantastic hotels , amazing restaurants , and awesome things to do . Along with Crete, Santorini is the best island in Greece in the winter and shoulder seasons when it still has plenty to do. Oia , Santorini for boutique hotels, honeymooners, and sunset views. Fira , Santorini for nightlife, shopping, and caldera/sunset views. 2. Mykonos The best nightlife and clubbing in Greece is found on Mykonos. Also has great beaches and a surprisingly charming capital village, Mykonos Town. Ornos is one of my favorite beaches in Greece. Little Venice in Mykonos Town . Filled with small restaurants and trendy clubs. 3. Crete The largest Greek island and rich with beaches, historical sites, hikes, traditional villages, small cities, and great tours . So big that if you only have a week it’s good to limit yourself to only this island. If you have two weeks it makes a great pair with Santorini. Chania is the most charming town on Crete and a great base for exploring western Crete. Rethymnon has a cool old town and good beaches walking distance from most hotels. 4. Naxos The most family-friendly island in Greece is Naxos. Great beaches and the main town is crammed with wonderful tavernas serving some of the best food on the Greek islands. The inland villages are marvelous to explore. The town beach in Naxos Town – shallow and very kid-friendly. Even better beaches are a short drive down the coast. Naxos Town has some of the best restaurants in Greece. 5. Paros A wonderful mix of the great beaches and villages of Naxos and the nightlife and boutique vibe of Mykonos. This island gets a little more popular every year but is still quiet compared to Santorini and Mykonos. Paros has two of the most charming towns in Greece, Naoussa (above) and Parikia (the ferry port). Either town makes a great base for exploring the other (and the rest of the island). A highlight of Paros is making a day trip to Antiparos – where the beaches are quiet, secluded, and some of the best in Greece. 6. Rhodes Fantastic beaches, energetic nightlife, and one of the best preserved ancient towns in Europe. Rhodes is a fantastic choice for first-time visitors to Greece. A boat tour around the island’s coasts is highly recommended. The Old Town of Rhodes. The stunningly beautiful St. Paul’s Beach, just below the Acropolis of Lindos in Rhodes. Greek Islands – Where To Go

The Best Greek Island for First Time Visitors.

A view of the Santorini caldera. Yes, the best hotels in Santorini are expensive, but there are many affordable hotels with caldera views , like the Iliovasilema (above) in Imerovigli.

Athina Luxury Suites in Fira is one of our favorite hotels, though the best luxury hotels in Santorini are in Oia and Imerovigli. Mykonos has the best nightlife and club scene of any Greek island. It usually starts with dinner and drinks by the water and then hit the clubs in Mykonos Town. Beach parties in Mykonos take place at Paradise and Super Paradise beaches and run from mid-June to mid-September. Other beaches, like Platis Gialos above, Paraga , and Ornos have beach clubs that have thumping music and dancing through the day until about 10pm. Then the party moves to Mykonos Town or the Paradise beaches. Rhodes is one of the best islands for historical sightseeing (Crete, Naxos, and Santorini are also great). This is the main entrance of the famous Knights Grand Master Palace (also known as Castello) in Rhodes Town, a must-visit museum. Santorini and Milos are two of the most beautiful islands in Greece and have a similar other-worldly feel. This is the fishing village of Firopotamos on Milos . The private pool and view at Calilo Hotel on the wonderful island of Ios – a very short ferry ride from Santorini. Island hopping by ferry is one of the highlights of the Greek islands. Sitting on the deck of a ferry and watching the islands pass by until you arrive at your destination. Folegandros is the best Greek island for hiking – great paths all around this beautiful island. All the greek islands have great food and restaurants . The best Greek islands for foodies are Santorini, Crete, Naxos, and Paros. This is a gyros plate from a restaurant in Crete. Naxos is a wonderful family destination. Great beaches, a relaxed vibe, cheap hotels (and luxury ones too), and there’s even a water park. Paros is also a great island for families and it’s got a bit more shopping and activity for teens – and nightlife for older family members. Sifnos is a quiet Cycladic island criss-crossed with beautiful (and well-maintained) hiking paths. Greek Islands – When To Go Chania in Crete . One of the most wonderful towns in Greece. Best Greece Vacations For the best trip to Greece, I recommend visiting Greek islands within the same island group. For example, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Corfu and Santorini on the same trip as they’re on opposite sides of the country. Instead, visit islands in the same island group: the Cyclades (the most popular), the Sporades, the Dodecanese, the Ionian, the Saronic, and the Northeastern Aegean. For one, they’re close to each other. And two, they have frequent ferry connections with other islands within the same group. For first-time visitors to Greece, the Cyclades make the most natural and convenient introduction to the Greek islands. Crete is its only island group and will have good connections to the Cyclades from May to October. Best Greek Islands To Visit in March, April, October, and November This is shoulder season. The busiest islands and those with a local population are quieter but still humming with plenty of hotels and restaurants open. Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes are the best Greek islands to visit in the spring and autumn period. Best Greek Islands To Visit in May, June, and September The Greek islands have beautiful weather in the months just before and after peak season. It’s a great time to see the islands, save money, avoid the crowds, and still have great weather (though not as hot as July and August). If you want to see the super-popular islands of Santorini, Rhodes, Corfu, and Crete without the tourists then this is a great time to visit. Best Greek Islands To Visit in July and August The busiest and hottest months. If you like beach parties and packed clubs then Mykonos is the place to be. The less-busy islands (Antiparos, Sifnos, Ikaria, Folegandros, Milos) have short tourist seasons and this is when they’re fully open and running. Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu are in peak-season but all are large enough to retain their charm. Best Greek Islands To Visit in December, January, and February Most islands are very quiet in the winter. Crete and Santorini are the best islands as they still have plenty to do even in winter and there are lots of (open) places to stay and eat.

Best Greek Island for a family with young kids and teens.

Naxos is loaded with great beaches and the best greek island for families .

Greek Island FAQ What is the best time of year to travel to the Greek islands? June to September are the best months to visit the Greek islands if you’re interested in beaches, hot weather, swimming, sunbathing, and nightlife. If your interests are hiking, exploring, taking tours, and seeing historical sites then April, May, early June, late September, October, and November are the best months. Which is the most beautiful island in Greece? Santorini, Crete, and Corfu are widely considered the most beautiful and picturesque Greek islands. But all the islands have their own charms and beauty and every island has its passionate devotees who claim their island is the most beautiful in Greece. What is the cheapest month to fly to Greece? December, January, and February are the cheapest months to fly to Greece. They are also the quietest and least touristy months. For a good mix of affordability and good weather the months of April, May, and October have cheap flights and happy tourists. Which Greek island has the most beautiful beaches? Naxos, Crete, Mykonos, Ios, and Antiparos have the most beautiful and picturesque beaches with sparkling blue water and long stretches of golden sand. Which is the prettiest and quietest Greek island? Which Greek island is the least touristy? Sifnos, Serifos, Folegandros, Ikaria, and Karpathos are all beautiful islands that see far fewer tourists than the popular holiday islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. Prices for hotels and food are also much cheaper on these quieter islands. Which is the cheapest Greek island? Sifnos, Serifos, Syros, Milos, and Folegandros all great prices on hotels and inexpensive places to eat. Santorini and Mykonos are the most expensive islands and should be avoided if you’re on a tight budget. Do I need shots to go to Greece? Greece does not require any special vaccinations for visitors from the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, or Singapore. But travelers should make sure they are up to date on all shots usually required in western countries.

Best Greek island for weddings, receptions, and honeymoons.

Small Cameo Island on Zakynthos is a top spot for weddings and proposals. Zakynthos (Zante in Greek) is popular with package vacations but is not a great choice for island hopping , like the islands of the Cyclades.

Top Travel Sites for the Greek Islands – My Recommendations Best For Ferries: Ferryhopper.com The easiest way to book and buy Greek ferry tickets in advance.

Best For Flights: Kayak.com • Skyscanner • Momondo

Kayak is the easiest to use. Skyscanner finds the cheapest rates. Momondo is the best for first and business class tickets.

Best For Renting A Car: Rentalcars.com

Great prices from all the biggest rental companies. Easy to use, safe, and reliable.

Best For Hotels: Booking.com

Awesome rates and great for vacation planning. All price ranges. Luxury hotels, 5-star boutiques, cheap hostels, house and apartment rentals.

Best For Tours: GetYourGuide.com

My favorite for booking tours and private tour guides.

Best for Travel Insurance: InsureMyTrip

Compare costs from over 30 insurance providers.

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About Santorini Dave

Hi! Looking to go on our honeymoon end of May. Have 10 nights, would love to hit 3 islands if it’s doable. Would you change this itinerary at all? We are in our upper 20s, want some relaxing/some exploring town, beaches, good food and wine.

Day 1: arrive in Athens and fly to Santorini (night 1) 2: full day in Santorini 3: full day in Santorini 4: full day in Santorini 5: boat to Naxos early 6: full day Naxos 7: full day Naxos 8: boat to Paros 9: full day Paros 10: full day Paros 11: travel from Paros to Athens and fly home

That looks perfect. The only thing I’d mention is that it’s possible to fly directly to Santorini from many airports in Western Europe. If you could find a direct flight it would save you the time and money spent on the Athens-Santorini flight. Just an idea. Otherwise, looks like a great plan.

Hello Dave, my wife and I hope to be in Greece in mid-September. The tentative itinerary would start with 3 nights in Athens with a day tour to Nafplio, ferry to Mykonos for 3 nights, then Naxos for 4 nights with a day tour to Paros, on to Santorini for 3 nights, ferry to Crete for 4 nights, and finish by flying to back to Athens for 1 night for next day flight home. Would welcome any suggestions. Perhaps it may be better to drop an island and add time on another (if so, which ones). Your expertise is much appreciated.

That all sounds great. It’s a minor change but I might suggest dropping the day trip to Paros (ferry day-trips are not a great use of time, especially when you’re already doing plenty of ferry travel and seeing multiple islands) and add that day to Santorini, Crete, or an overnight stay in Nafplio (a wonderful town).

Wow – so glad I found your website! Definitely the most resourceful Greece planning site out there. I’m planning a 2 week trip to Greece in early September. My husband and I have never been to Greece and are looking for help determining what islands to go to. We appreciate history but prefer to not spend time in museums. We like places with outdoor activities (beach, swimming, hiking), places with great food, plan to splurge on a few luxurious hotels/experiences, and are not big into the nightlife and clubbing scene. We definitely want to spend time in Santorini and maybe 1-2 days in Athens when we land. What other islands should we build into our itinerary? I am having trouble choosing!! -Naxos -Paros -Milos -Crete -Nafplion (worth a day trip from Athens?) -Mykonos (is it better to visit Naxos/Paros/Milos/Crete than Mykonos?)

Thank you so much!! Christina Cavanagh

Along with Santorini and Athens, I’d visit Naxos, Paros, and Milos; or Naxos and Crete. Crete is a large island so don’t go unless you have 4 full days (ideally more but with two weeks, 4 days is probably the most you can do). For destinations with outdoor history attractions, I’d rank them in this order: Athens, Santorini, Crete, Naxos, Milos. Nafplio and Mykonos are both wonderful but not sure you’ll have time.

Hi Dave – what a wonderfully informative website. There is so much information to wade through so was wanting your advice. 14 of us are planning a ladies (no husbands, children, etc.) island holiday to Greece in July this summer for 7 days. We’re coming from all over the world to arrive via Athens or Istanbul. Our budgets (the most important thing) also differ greatly! Our original thought was to visit Paros but I’ve since heard/read that this could be quite windy in July as well as a mini-Mykonos in terms of price.

Our interests would range from nightlife to beaches with everything in between. Greece in a nutshell, I suppose.

What are your thoughts?

Ios has great beaches, nightlife, and restaurants. And accommodations that range from inexpensive and good value to 4-star and very nice. Probably your best choice. Naxos would also be good but a little more expensive and less nightlife.

Your website is incredibly informative and very helpful. My sis and I are planning a trip to Greece, just the to of us, and would like to go within the next 6 years when our kids are a bit older. I’ve done a ton of research of where we want to go and I have it narrowed down to begin in Athens and would love to end in Crete and visit the five main islands in between. My questions are: What would be the best time frame for this type of trip and are there travel agencies that you recommend to help us build the vacation we would like versus the preplanned destinations? I really appreciate your help.

Sincerely, Abby

Late June or early September would be the best time for your trip (great weather everywhere but not the large crowds of summer). Much better to plan and book your trip on your own than to use a travel agency. Better hotels, better prices, more unique trip.

Hi Dave! First let me say a BIG TEXAS SIZED THANK YOU for all your information. Your write ups have been very helpful in planning which Islands we want to visit when coming to Greece this summer. I have a question that I have not been able to find an answer for that I wanted to ask you. For part of our trip we will be with 3 other families. There will be a total of 8 adults and 8 children, ranging in ages from 3 to 17. We are really wanting to book a large villa/home while in Crete for 6 nights. I have looked on Booking.com per your recommendation, however, most are showing villas or apartments with renting multiple units. We were really trying to book one large home for all of us during this portion of the trip. Is there a site that is unique or special to booking large homes in Greece? Or just go with the normal Airbnb or Flipkey? Any advise would be much appreciated! Thank you!!

Sorry, I don’t know of any website devoted to large group villas. There certainly are a few large villas on Booking and Airbnb – it’s just a matter of finding them.

Hi Dave, great website, I’m glad I found you, your expertise and knowledge has blown my mind. I have a slightly different question than the ones above/below. I’m a writer, in my mid 40’s, single, living in England but am looking for a place to live on a Greek Island, not particularly a city, more a friendly village or town, think a more romantic scenario like The Durrells perhaps. I know it’s best I just travel around and see for myself with such a big commitment, but I just don’t have the time I’m afraid for that much traveling right now. So I thought there would be no harm in asking someone in the know for some ideas. What I’m looking for in no particular order is: Somewhere with a general sunny/warmish climate in the winter months. Historical sites, mountains, coasts, forests, to visit/walk/hike. Some nice beaches to relax for an hour or two or three. Great local food and places to eat in the day or evening, all a good walk or short drive away. Friendly atmosphere. I would prefer to live closer to the coast than inland so somewhere not TOO touristy in the summer months if possible. Surrounded by beautiful nature for relaxing and walks.

Be as specific as you like Dave, gimme a road name if something comes to mind. Wherever you suggest I will thoroughly research whether it’s 1, 2, or 20 islands/towns/villages. I’m just a jobbing writer, not wealthy but with a spirit for life, good food, and nature if that helps. So a big thanks for any help you throw my way Dave.

Crete has the warmest weather in the winter, a ton of history, great inland villages, wonderful hikes, and incredible food (no place in Greece has bad food). The large coastal towns and resorts do get a lot of tourists in summer but they are easy to avoid if you’re inclined. I would start there. But there are so many great places that you’d love: Ikaria, Sifnos, Folegandros, Hydra, Nafplio (on the mainland), Corfu Town. The list is long. Good luck.

What island is the hottest to visit in April? I want to go do for my 30th birthday on April 18 and experience the warm beaches. Also, who should I book through to island-hop?

Crete usually has the warmest weather in April but I wouldn’t call it hot. It’s possible you could be swimming and sunbathing but (on average) unlikely. Book ferries through ferryhopper.com and hotels through booking.com.

I will go in June with my wife to Greece for 10 days. I will spend 1 day in Athens and then I will have 9 days to the islands. I want to spend 2 days in Santorini and the other 7 days I want to pick up 2 of these 4 islands: Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Milos. What do you suggest? We are looking for beautiful beaches with clear water and travel around the island with moto.

Thanks, Filipe

All are great islands. Mykonos for nightlife and beaches, Naxos for beaches and traditional Greek villages, Paros for trendy restaurants and beaches, Milos for beaches and a wonderful boat tour around the island. All have great food.

Hi Dave, Your website is fantastic! I’ve really spent some time scouring the information and have used it to come up with an itinerary, but would love your opinion and advice. We are two couples traveling together in our late 50’s, early 60’s, that love activity, tours, hiking or walking around, lots of history with a nice mix of a few days of relaxing/beach enjoying some really great food and wine. Shopping and culture are also things we love to do. We are planning a trip in early May to Mid May for 14 days to avoid the crowds. We are flying in and out of Athens, so we thought we would fly into Athens, rest up the first night, then see the sites there, spend another night and then ferry over to Mykonos the next morning. We want to spend 2 full days in Mykonos so we can take the day trip over to Delos and roam around the next day (3 nights), then ferry over to Santorini for 5 days and then ferry over to Crete for the last 4 days, then fly back to athens from there. The questions I have are 1. Is early May not a good time to visit Mykonos or other islands? I don’t want to be there and have all the restaurants/shops/beaches closed. 2. Is Crete a good way to end the trip? My friend who has been to Greece many times said that a better choice would be to go to Rhodes or to adjust days and fly back to Athens and go to Corfu, she said she even prefers Corfu over Rhodes. She said that she wouldn’t suggest Crete. What do you think about that? This will be our first trip to Greece, but we are good travelers, been all over the world and want to get the most out of our 14 days and don’t want to waste too much time traveling and being on the road. I know you mention Naxos alot, but she didn’t think there was much there for us.

I would change the order of your trip: Crete then Santorini then Mykonos. This will push your Mykonos visit forward 10 days which will make the difference between quiet and not-so-quiet. But if you would make your trip one week later that would be even better (ideally hit Mykonos May 20 to 25). Santorini and Crete will be busier earlier. They also have a larger local population so never are quite as dead. I much prefer all 3 of these islands to Rhodes and Corfu. Though beautiful both of those islands get lots of package tourism which is less than ideal.

Planning to travel to Greece with my girlfriend from May 13-May 24 (10 nights flying in/out of Athens). Trying to plan our itinerary and we have come up with the following:

Night 1: Athens Night 2: Athens Night 3: Santorini Night 4: Santorini Night 5: Santorini Night 6: Santorini Night 7: Naxos/Paros Night 8: Naxos/Paros Night 9: Naxos/Paros Night 10: Athens

– What are your general thoughts? – Should we take the ferry or airplane from Athens to Santorini? – If we stay in Naxos can we take day trip to Paros (and vise versa)? Which one should we stay in if this was the plan? – Is Mykonos worth visiting if not interested in the nightlife? – Are there any other islands you would recommend adding to our itinerary?

Looks great. I would ferry to Santorini. The only way I’d recommend flying is if you flew directly to Santorini upon landing in Athens (and then leave all your Athens’ days til the end). But if you go into Athens you’re better off taking the ferry. Yes, a day trip is easy between Naxos and Paros. Probably stay in Naxos and day trip to Paros but no great difference. Mykonos is a great island (but don’t bother with a day trip.)

Looking for a Greek island with nice beaches and windsurfing. What one would you recommend?

Naxos and Paros both have great beaches and are very popular windsurfing islands.

Hi Dave. In 12 days is it possible to do Athens (1 day), Milos, Naxos, Paros, and Santorini? Is this too much? Which would you remove if necessary?

It’s a lot for 12 days – but comfortably doable, for sure. If you had 10 nights on the islands do 3 nights in Naxos and Santorini, and 2 nights in Paros and Milos.

Hi, Dave! My husband and I will be going to Greece 8/26 – 9/4. We are flying into and out of Athens for cost efficiency. We really want to see Navagio Beach on Zakynthos for a day, and we realize this will likely be an overnight trip, or even 2 nights depending on the travel options. What is the best way to get from Athens to Zykanthos? What is the best way to get from Zakynthos to Santorini? Or is it best to just go from Zakynthos back to Athens and then to Santorini? We are trying to avoid additional flights but realize we may have to fly from Zakynthos to Santorini.

Our potential itinerary is:

8/26 – flight arrives in Athens at 12:15 PM, check into hotel near Acropolis and explore 8/27 – depart to Zakynthos via bus and ferry 8/28 – Blue Caves & Navagio Beach tour, return to Athens or depart to Santorini if possible 8/29 – Santorini 8/30 – Santorini 8/31 – Santorini 9/1 – Mykonos 9/2 – Mykonos 9/3 – Return to Athens 9/4 – Flight home

Any advice for traveling, places to see, places to stay would be appreciated! We love food, sight-seeing, boat tours, beaches, entertaining night life (but not night clubs). Thank you!

You seem to have your heart set on Zakynthos but I have to say it’s not a good use of time for a sort-of overrated payoff. Your time is much better spent (in my opinion) seeing another Greek island in the cyclades (maybe taking a ferry to Naxos or Paros sitting outside on the deck drinking a bottle of wine) rather than taking a bus and connecting flights. Zakynthos and Santorini/Mykonos are on opposite sides of the country and the only way from one to the other is by flying (or some combination of bus and ferry). So, my recommendation is to consider spending those Zakynthos days in Naxos, Paros, Milos, or some other Cycladic island.

My family of 5 (wife, myself, 14 yr., 12 yr. & 12 yr. old boys) will finish a trip to Turkey ending in Kusadasi. This will be mid-June. As 1st time travelers to the Greek islands, which islands do you recommend for a short trip of 5 days? I was thinking Santorini and Paros or Santorini and Crete.

What is the best way to get from Kusadasi to the Greek islands and from the islands back to an international airport to fly back to Atlanta? It seems difficult to fly or ferry from Turkey to Greece. Similarly, at the end of the trip it seems like almost all flights from Santorini must go through Athens except for one route nonstop through London.

Any other advice on hotels, villages, activities and logistics would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

The only ferry from Kusadasi to Greece goes to the Greek island of Samos. It’s a great island and certainly worth a few days. From Samos, there are usually direct ferries to Mykonos and Syros. These are very different islands that have a very different vibe – but both appealing in their own way. From Mykonos there will be direct flights to Western Europe (most likely Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, and London) though not every flight flies every day so requires some planning. Santorini would be another ferry ride from Mykonos. And Crete farther still. So you wouldn’t have time to get to either island.

Hi Dave! Thank you so much for this amazing and helpful blog! I’m planning on taking a post-graduation trip to Greece with around 5-7 other friends (we’re in our late teens, mostly girls) in late-May/early-June of this year. My question is: which island would you recommend for us?

We originally wanted to go to Mykonos for the nightlife, but it looks too expensive. We’re planning to spend around a week, and we’re looking for somewhere safe and cheap with great nightlife and other young people. Good beaches and hikes are a plus. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated as well. Thank you in advance for your help!!

Ios has good nightlife, beautiful beaches, great food, and some good hikes. It’s also very affordable.

Hello Dave,

My husband and I are visiting Greece for a little over a week over the 4th of July. I was hoping you might be able to give us your opinion on a few things. Here is the itinerary we have come up with so far:

Day 1 – Arrive in Athens around 5ish (sleep – Athens) Day 2 – Explore Athens (sleep – Athens) – Delphi? Nafplio? Day 3 – Travel to Island #1 in morning (sleep – Island #1) Naxos? Crete? Day 4 – Explore Island #1 (sleep – Island #1) Day 5 – Travel to Santorini (sleep – Santorini) Day 6 – Explore Santorini (sleep – Santorini) Day 7 – Explore Santorini (sleep-Santorini) Day 8 – Travel to Athens in evening (sleep Athens – near airport) Day 9 – Fly Home

We are having trouble deciding on another island to go to besides Santorini (we both want to go there). I was hoping you might be able to make a suggestion. We are not really into late night partying/night life. We LOVE good food..quite possibly the most important item on our list. We also like to hike, my husband is very into history, we love beer/wine, we could definitely be into in a less populated/touristy type spot. Gorgeous beaches and great views are also a plus.

Also, if there are any other suggestions you have in general for Athens and Santorini I would love to hear them. I would like to be able to leave Athens early morning on Day 3 so that we can have almost a full day on our first island. We would like to see as much as we can without feeling like we are running around from island to island the whole time.

I am so happy I stumbled on your site as it has been extremely helpful already. I really appreciate your time. Thank you!

Considering your interests (great food, hiking, beaches, nightlife unimportant) then Naxos should definitely be your other island. (And Naxos has many daily ferry connections with both Santorini and Athens.) Also, Athens needs at least one full day to explore so you should drop any thoughts about Delphi or Nafplio. Also, I would look into flights from Athens to Santorini on your night of arrival. If you could get to Santorini that night (and move your day in Athens to the end of your trip) you’d almost gain an entire day and could spend two nights on Naxos.

Hi Dave, An incredibly helpful site for pinning down the details…what a jewel! Our plan is to visit Santorini (Grace) and Mykonos (Belvedere) and then likely Hydra. Do you recommend Hydra, and if so, which hotel would you recommend. If not, which other island would you suggest? Thanks for your advice. Camille

Hydra is great but it does take a bit of time and effort to get to from the Cyclades. You’ll need to ferry to Athens, then might have to overnight there, then ferry to Hydra. Whereas Naxos, Paros, Milos, Folegandros, etc. would all be one direct ferry from Santorini or Mykonos. If you do go to Hydra then Leto Hotel is a great choice close to the port and shops and restaurants.

Hi Dave! One more question, do you know of any resorts with heated pools or private jacuzzis/pools in the room that are heated on islands other than Santorini and Mykonos? Looking for something above 26/27 degrees and can’t seem to find any! Elounda Beach resort said they could heat the private pool but it costs 45 EUR per degree! Hoping you know of another option that would allow us to swim comfortably in Early June. Thank you!!

Elizabeth Bresler

NAXOS HOTELS Naxian Utopia: All 9 suites and villas have private pools; the Exotic Suite and the Horizon Suite add indoor steam rooms. Medusa Resort: Executive Suites boast private, outdoor jacuzzis, while Junior Suites have indoor jacuzzis. Naxian Collection: Most suites and villas have private pools. The Premium and Grand Suites share 1 pool, while the Elegant Suite has 2 pools. Naxos on the Beach: All suites include either an indoor or outdoor jacuzzi. Margaret of Naxos: One Suite has an indoor hot tub. Naxos Island Hotel: Family Apartments and some Deluxe Double Rooms have private, outdoor jacuzzis. The Saint Vlassis: Executive Doubles and the Penthouse Suite have outdoor hot tubs; Suites have indoor jacuzzis. Lagos Mare: Sea View Suites have indoor jacuzzis. Kedros Villas: The Family Suite has an indoor jacuzzi tub, while the Grand Villa and Residence have outdoor jacuzzis Iria Beach Art Hotel: Honeymoon Suites include indoor, jacuzzi tubs.

PAROS HOTELS Lilly Residences: Junior, Superior, and Honeymoon Suites have indoor jacuzzis. Both of their Diamond Suites boast private, outdoor plunge pools; 1 Diamond Suite has an additional indoor jacuzzi, while the other Diamond Suite has a second veranda. Anna Platanou Suites: All Suite types include a private jacuzzi or pool. The Luxury Suites can have an indoor or outdoor jacuzzi; Deluxe and Superior Suites have outdoor jacuzzis; the Exclusive Suite has a private pool with a built in jacuzzi. Hotel Senia: 2 room types have private jacuzzis, the Suite with Outdoor Hot Tub and the Superior Apartment with Spa Bath. Blue Mare Villas: Asterias and Ammos Villas both have private, outdoor jacuzzis. Kalypso Hotel: Some Superior Rooms and all Executive Rooms and Villas feature private, outdoor jacuzzis Kanale’s Rooms and Suites: The Junior, Maisonette, and Penthouse Suites all offer indoor jacuzzis. Yria Boutique Hotel: The Pool Experience Suites offer private, outdoor, infinity pools. The Yria Ktima Luxury Villa has an infinity pool and a jacuzzi-jetted plunge pool.

MILOS HOTELS Eiriana Luxury Suites: 3 of their 6 suites feature private, outdoor jacuzzis: Zephyrus, Boreas II, and Eurus. Salt Suites: The Sea Houses and Sea View Suites all have private, outdoor jacuzzis overlooking the sea. Nefeli Sunset Studios: The Master Suite boasts an outdoor, private jacuzzi. Milos Breeze: Exclusive Rooms can have either indoor jacuzzis or private plunge pools; Honeymoon Suites all feature private plunge pools. Captain Zeppos: The White Home offers an outdoor jacuzzi. Thalassitra Village Hotel: Executive Suites and Grand Executive Seaview Suites both have private pools with jacuzzi jets.

Hi Dave, I am planning my honeymoon to Greece and can’t decide the best itinerary. We want to relax but we also don’t want to lie on a beach for 2 weeks. We would love the right balance of travelling and relaxing. We were thinking Santorini, Milos (or Naxos?) and then maybe Athens? 3 days Athens, 5 days Santorini, and 5 days Milos/Naxos?

What do you recommend? Thank you so much in advance, Sarah

I think that’s a great plan. Santorini is a must and Milos and Naxos are two islands that have both great beaches and lots to do and see away from the beach. Renting a car and exploring the interior villages of Naxos is a must-do and so is a boat tour around Milos. If you’re willing to cut Athens to 2 days, I would recommend Santorini 5 days, Milos 3 days, Naxos 3 days, and Athens 2 days.

Hi Dave, going to Greece in September from the 3rd to 18th. Paros and Milos are pretty much decided but we are not sure about adding a 3rd island. We arrive in Athens early in the day from an overnight flight so will be jetlagged. My husband is staying on for an additional week near Thessaloniki. We have already visited Athens, Aegina, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and Rhodes. My husband isn’t really a beach person and I love the beach so we do need a mix of things to do. We are pretty fit and enjoy being Active. Great restaurants are a must. Any suggestions?

I think Naxos would be a great choice for you. Wonderful beaches, interesting inland villages, plenty of hiking, great food.

Hi Dave. Thank you for your amazing website! We (30’s / 40’s couple – no kids) used your recommendations last year in September and visited Santorini (7days), Milos (3days) and Crete (12days) before spending 3 days in Athens. The trip was amazing and Greece is calling us to go back again this year! We have a conundrum which we are hoping you can assist (well, many of them really!)

We are planning to come back at the start of September for 2 weeks to visit different islands for some beach and sun. To give you some background, we loved Santorini, Milos and the quieter / smaller places in Crete (Loutro, Falassarna, Samaria Gorge). We enjoy beach time, some hiking, site seeing, good wine / food and good / buzzy atmosphere at night for dinner / tavernas.

We originally thought we would try the Ionian islands (something different from what we experienced) with a view of visiting Cephalonia, Paxos, Lefkada or staying with the Cyclades with Paros/Antiparos and Naxos. We know that transport options may be more challenging on the Ionian side.

Can you please give us your opinion of the Ionian islands understanding what we like (above) and compared to our trip last year? We’ve read suggestions that it is more of a package holiday destination like resorts along Northern Crete which we didn’t enjoy being around.

If staying with the Cyclades option, we originally thought of Paros and Naxos although read that Antiparos comes highly recommended. Would you suggest Naoussa on Paros or Antiparos? In this option, we would look to stay 5 days Paros/Antiparos and 5 days Naxos with 4 days left over for another island close by if you have any suggestions??

Thanks in advance Dave!!!

The Ionian Islands are a quite different entity to the more familiar Aegean islands. There are in effect only seven of them plus a sprinkling of satellite islands that make for a very enjoyable package. They are different from the point of view of flora – they are greener and less barren than their Aegean cousins and they share a different history to the rest of Greece and the other islands, having absorbed much Venetian and Italian influences over the years. This is particularly apparent in the Old Town of Corfu where you could be forgiven for thinking you might be somewhere in Italy.

They are packaged tourist places, though not quite in the extreme league of the north coast of Crete, but certainly they look to the ‘managed’ traveller more than the individual. September is a good time, though the start of September is still pretty close to high season and you will need to make bookings in advance. The waters of the Ionian are a bit chillier than the Aegean, but the islands sport some very spectacular beaches and seaside resorts. They are very popular with Italian travellers in their boats and motorhomes.

Transport to them is easy enough with at least four airports receiving international flights (Corfu, Aktio (Lefkada), Kefallonia, and Zakynthos). Ferries to and from the mainland are well provided for, though travel between them is not quite the same deal as the Aegean islands.

The most remote island of the group, though still politically an Ionian island, is Kythira which dangles off the bottom of the Peloponnese and is perhaps the least-known Ionian treasure. It’s largish island with the kind of moody, windswept atmosphere that as you express above that you like. Do consider.

Zakynthos is the one with the ‘reputation’ for rowdy package tourism, though in all honesty it is mainly clustered around the dreadful resort of Laganas. The island happens to be the home of one of the most spectacular beaches in Greece – the famous ‘shipwreck’ beach that you can only get to by boat, or if you are daring enough – by parachute.

Kefallonia is another large island with a busy packaged summer population that combines mountains, beaches and villages in a very appealing way. It’s big enough to get away from others and there’s lots of fine wine and food, buzzy atmospheres and hiking and sightseeing. Look up Fiskardo and Assos.

Ithaki (Ithaca) is Ulysses’ home island and one might argue that it hasn’t changed much since. This is the kind of island where you go to get away from the other islands. It’s not so easy to get to and has a kind of dreamy, earthy kind of atmosphere that will appeal to lovers of an alternate Greek vacation. Hiking, good food, and nature galore.

Lefkada is the island that’s not an island. You can drive to it across the causeway from the mainland, but it feels every bit an island. Aristotle Onassis bought the satellite island of Skorpios here as his own bit of getaway paradise. Beaches, windsurfing, boat hire, good food and wine are all here and there are few built-up package resorts. The main tourist area is centred on Nydri.

The next big island north is Corfu, the grandmother of all holiday packaged islands, but with plenty of other individualized retreats. Arguably the prettiest of all the islands, it is lush, green and clean though it can get a bit cluttered in high Summer. Pretty well all the options you want are on offer, but the best hikes and ramblings are to be had away from the central east coast. Author Gerald Durrell chose well in Corfu: his famous White House in the north-west of the island is at the little seaside village of Kalami.

Off the southern tip of Corfu is the gem of an island called Paxi and may be what you are actually looking for, given your previous experiences. You can’t go wrong with Paxi. It is classy, clean, green and still pretty Ionian Greek. It is not a packaged island, but more a place for selective visitors.

Transport between them can be patchy, but a new service linking Zakynthos with Corfu which started this year now brings all the islands (bar Kythira) together. Zakynthos is otherwise linked to Kefallonia with an old-style open deck ‘slipper’ ferry; Kefallonia includes Ithaki on its local small ferry route to Nydri on Lefkada. There is no link (except for the new service) from Lefkada to Paxi/Corfu. Corfu has links to Paxi and its little know satellite islands just to the north. Kythira has an airport with flights to Athens and ferries to Crete (Kissamos) and the Peloponnese (Gythio, Kalamata, and Neapoli).

In summary, the Ionian islands are very popular for one good reason: they are all attractive destinations in their own right yet differ quite significantly from one another.

For Paros, choose Naoussa if you want trendy restaurants, bars, and shopping. Choose Antiparos if you want quiet charm and beaches within an easy walk.

I’m traveling to Greece for the first time, and I’m so fortunate to be staying for about 9 weeks (peak season, unfortunately, I’m an educator and it’s summer!). I have ample time planned in Athens, and the Peloponnese (with rental car). Here’s where I need some help and suggestions. I have 5 weeks saved for the islands and I’m still trying to figure out how to spend them. I’m not sure if I’d like to cover just a few islands and soak them in a bit deeper with longer stays…or to travel at a quicker pace covering several islands in each main area (the Cyclades, Ionians, Crete-Rhodes Dodecanese, Eastern Islands) I’m an easy traveler and enjoy diversity. I crave spending time with locals and interacting with families – home stays at times, I enjoy the water and I’m an avid diver, I like hiking and exploring. Also, want to perhaps relax a bit – food/wine tasting welcomed). I’m excited about the trip and my ideas are racing all over. Do you have some ideas and suggestions to share? A rough sketch itinerary for Greece? Thanks so much!

Nine weeks in Greece is a dream itinerary it certainly gives you lots of flexibility. As you seem to have Athens and the Peloponnese sorted, you just need to sort out your five weeks on the islands. What you need to realize, however, is that the islands are not all mutually interconnected, but rather they are ‘grouped’ – both administratively and from the point of view of transport routes. Here are the main groups.

• The Argo-Saronic Islands closer to Athens and run from Aegina to Spetses. • The Sporades Islands in the mid-northern Aegean three of which are connected to Volos and the fourth one to Evvia. • The Islands of the NE Aegean running from Samothraki in the North to Samos in the South • The Ionian Islands from Corfu along the west coast ending at Kythira • The Cyclades (the ‘traditional’ Greek islands) occupying the central Aegean • The Dodecanese Islands running south from Samos along the Turkish coast to Kastellorizo • Crete a large island rounding off the bottom of the Aegean Sea.

These groups are generally better connected among themselves than with other groups, so you are probably better advised to target them on this basis. As it’s your first time to Greece, you may want the full-on Greek island experience and you could easily fill your five weeks flitting from one island to the other in the Cyclades. You could start in Kea and work your way down to Milos via Kythnos, Serifos and Sifnos then segue to Paros and Naxos. Dip down to Santorini, up to Mykonos and back to Piraeus. The map will also show plenty of other Cyclades islands to pick and choose from such as Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros, Amorgos, Syros, Tinos and Andros – yes! too many choices, but you will find that sticking to one group it will be easier to get between them. Realistically for a period of five weeks you will not want to be doing more than 6-8 islands.

Of the above groups the Dodecanese probably constitute the best opportunity to mix islands between groups. You could, for example, take the Blue Star Ferries and map an island-hopping route that essentially heads in the same direction. In this way you could take in some of the Cyclades – Syros, Mykonos, Patmos, Naxos and some of the Dodecanese – Patmos, Leros, Kos, Chalki, and Rhodes – without any backtracking. Hellenic Seaways is another major ferry company whose routes you may want to explore.

The other groups are best tackled individually. For example, the Ionians have no ferry connections to the rest of the Greek islands; the same story with the Sporades and the Argo-Saronics. The NE Aegean islands do have a link to the Dodecanese and the Cyclades but are probably best left for another trip once you have got the feel of the rhythm of the Greek islands.

Crete is a destination unto itself but is commonly linked with Santorini and Mykonos and with daily catamarans between Crete and these islands it is easy to see why. Crete feels less like an island than anywhere else and can seem and feel daunting at first touch because of its size.

To sum up: a lot depends on your own stamina because island hopping means packing and unpacking, getting on and off buses and ferries. Limit your choice of islands to perhaps one or two less than you think you can manage. Maximise transport links to avoid backtracking or port-transferring and since you are traveling high season be aware that you will usually need bookings ahead at most places. It is possible to turn up on an island and not find a place to stay or have to make do with a third-rate option.

As a starter to explore ferry services, go to the Ferryhopper.com and punch in your route searches. Note: air travel between islands is not generally good. Air travel is normally only feasible between Athens (or other mainland destinations) and the island in question. Some exceptions do exist – Rhodes Kastellorizo, Kos-Leros-Astypalaia, Thessaloniki-Limnos-Ikaria etc. but again you will need bookings weeks in advance.

Finally, and this is perhaps the best tip of all – as it’s the old-style romantic one – book transport to and accommodation on one starter island (Paros is a good choice). Sail/fly there, sit down relax, pour cold drinks and eat healthy Greek foods for 4-5 days while working out where to go to next with your tablet under an umbrella on the beach. Book your next stop online and go there. Repeat the exercise. No hassles about being locked into a fixed itinerary and if you like a place, you stay longer. If not, you move on. You will generally find transport tickets for a day or three ahead and hotel owners often know someone on the next island who can fit you in. In Paros, Petres Hotel is a good starting point. Good luck and happy sailing!

Love your website! So informative. My boyfriend and I will be traveling to Greece on August 1-11th. We have 10 days. Is this a feasible itinerary for a couple in their early 30s who want beach, relaxation, good food, boating, and some history? Fly into Athens have one full day there then fly to Naxos for a day and a half, Milos for 3 nights, then Santorini for 3 nights, then back to Athens for our flight? We chose Milos over Naxos at first, but after reading your blog it seems the beaches in Naxos may be better?

Thanks, Megan

That’s a busy itinerary but doable. Naxos has better beaches, Milos has a more stunning and unique beauty.

Could you help with suggestions on where to take (2) 18 year old’s celebrating graduation. We will be landing in Athens on the 18th of April and departing for Crete, Mykonos, Santorini and back to Athens for a flight back to the USA on the 26th. Any help on things that are interesting for that age group would be terrific.

Vist Knossos (near Heraklion) and a get a tour guide. Do a boat tour and walk the caldera path in Santorini. Do the cooking class in Mykonos. Visit the Acropolis in Athens (and get a tour guide). Those would be my top recommendations.

I think you’re killing it with your website with the plethora of information/opinions available.

We are wanting to hit 3 islands and have narrowed it down to Corfu, Crete, and Santorini. I was feeling pretty good about this but I haven’t seen a lot of hype for Corfu. I was thinking it would be more unique as compared to the other 2 with its proximity to Italy and Turkey and Albania. Am I missing something, do you have any insight you could provide, please?

Those are 3 great islands. Corfu is much more green than Crete and Santorini and does have a different feel (more Italian but it’s no where near Turkey). The trouble with doing all 3 is that Corfu is on the opposite side of Greece from Crete and Santorini so you’d need to fly via Athens. It’s better for most people to visit another Cycladic island (Naxos, Paros, Milos, Folegandros) instead of splitting up their trip between the two sides of the country.

We are planning our honeymoon in Greece. We can probably take up to two weeks. One of the places we want to go is Santorini. We would like to visit one or maybe two other places if possible. The other places we were looking at are Athens, Mykonos & Crete. Which of these would you recommend with Santorini if we were thinking of visiting 2 or 3 places total? Also, with the time we have, how many days would be best in Santorini and the other places I mentioned above?

They’re all great choices. Athens (1 to 2 full days) is great for historical sightseeing. Mykonos for beaches and nightlife (2 to 4 days). Crete for historical sightseeing, greek culture and towns, some beaches but spread out (4 to 7 days). Santorini has great sightseeing, tours, and some history (4 to 7 days). If visiting outside of June to September then drop Mykonos and do the other 3 for sure.

We are traveling to Greece in early June for two weeks. We are booked for 2 nights in Athens and 2 nights in Santorini. I am trying to decide between going to Crete for a few days or Naxos and Milos rather than Crete. We have three kids ages 19, 12 and 11. Which do you think would be funner for us as a family?

Go with Naxos (great beaches) and Milos (fun boat tours and cool swimming spots).

Hi Dave! I’m planning my honeymoon for early September, starting from Santorini. I’d like to hit Naxos, Paros and finally Milos before returning to Athens. Is this order of islands doable? I’m most concerned about ferries being available to each of the islands, especially Paros to Milos. Are ferries routinely available daily in September? Also, for all these islands would three full days each be too much or not enough? My wife and I aren’t into nightlife, just looking for relaxation, great beaches, beautiful water and amazing food! Thanks!

You’d have to check the schedule for your specific dates but I think Santorini then Milos then Paros then Naxos and Athens would probably be the best order. 3 days in each sounds great. Or a small tweak: 2 days in Milos and then 4 days in Santorini (splitting time between 2 of the 4 caldera towns) or even 4 days in Paros (splitting time between Naousa and Parikia).

My fiancee and I are heading to Greece in July. We’ve been to Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, and Santorini. This time we plan on being there July 1 to 23. We’re definitely including Milos, and one of Paros or Naxos. Any recommendations for other islands? Any particular ferry routes we should consider? Some “less touristy” islands are a must (for at least one island). We can be lively or very chilled. Thanks and best wishes! Saro

For beaches: Sifnos (quiet island, an easy stop between Athens and Milos) or Ikaria (quieter still, but a little more effort to get to). For lively: Ios (great nightlife and magical beaches, good restaurants too). For hikes: Folegandros (many paths around the island, great local food). For less-touristy atmosphere: Syros (large local population, tourism occupies a relatively small percentage of economy) or Sikinos (small, sleepy island that doesn’t get a lot of visitors).

Hi Santorini Dave!

This is a great resource! I am planning our honeymoon for August. We have about 2 weeks. We are thinking of flying into Athens, exploring for a full day, then flying to Santorini for 2 or 3 days, then ferry to Milos and spend maybe 10 days there.

I’m a little worried I’ll get bored in Milos. My husband likes to stay in one place, but I like exploring. We would have split our time more evenly but we want to stay on the caldera and it’s just too expensive to stay any longer than two or three nights. Alternatively, we could stay in Santorini for longer but move to a cheaper hotel. Perhaps Santorini 6 nights and Milos 6 nights?

We love beautiful natural sights, charming Greek towns, the water, swimming, hiking, and biking. I love exploring and figs, the husband would love to see ruins and explore history.

Do you think we should change our itinerary?

Thank you so much!!

10 days would be a log time in Milos. Could be great if you’re happy with quiet days but I’d recommend spending more time on Santorini (or another island). If you’re looking for a cheap hotel steps from the caldera and surrounded by great restaurants then check out Merovigliosso in Imerovigli.

I need to finalize plans for a mid-June trip, looking to stay 9-10 nights. Traveling with my wife and two sons (24 and 16). Definitely want to go to Santorini, Mykonos and Athens. Was considering 3 nights at each, but after reading on your site, I am thinking about stealing a night from Athens and spending 2 nights at Naxos. We want to see the major sights in Athens, can we do that in a day? Any comments on the itinerary given our group is welcome.

Can you see all the major sights in Athens in one day? No. But you can see the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, and the top historical sites of the Plaka in one day. If you had an extra half-day then visit the Archaeological Museum in Exarcheia. That still leaves many great sights but you will have seen all of the iconic Athens attractions. Adding Naxos is always a good idea. You might even enjoy it more than Mykonos (but no nightlife like Mykonos).

Hi Dave, My husband and I are heading to Greece in July this year. We fly into Athens and then are connecting to Samos where we are meeting up for a friend’s 50th birthday celebration. We have 4 nights here and then another week to explore some other islands. We would love to visit Santorini although I know it is not close to Samos so not sure if that is the best option? We thought about Paros or Naxos for 3nts, and then Santorini for another 3nts. Then fly back to Athens and spend a couple of days here before we head for Dubrovnik. Do you know if there are ferries between these Island points and would that be the best use of our time? I guess we don’t want to waste too much time travelling between points! We are just playing around with ideas at the moment as Samos is the only part set in stone. Open to any suggestions as this is my husband’s first trip to Greece and my last trip here was with my parents about 35 years ago!

Thanks so much in advance. Carolynn

Your best bet is to take the Hellenic ferry from Samos to Mykonos . Spend a night or two there, then ferry to Naxos, Paros, and/or Santorini (there are many ferries doing this route in summer).

Hello, Dave! I love your website, congratulations. Me, my wife and a couple of friends are traveling to Greece in March (I know it’s not the best time of the year to visit Greece, but it’s the time we have available). We are in our late 30’s and are looking forward to some beautiful views, chill out time and good food. We’re not after huge parties but some local music wouldn’t be bad. We have 13 days in our hands, so by reading your texts I’m considering spending some 2 days in Athens, 3 days in Mykonos, 4 days in Santorini, 4 days in Chania. Do you think it’s a good schedule? Are we spending too much time or too little time in any of these places? Would you recommend a different setup for that time of the year? Thanks in advance, mate. Tiago

That all sounds good though I would recommend Naxos over Mykonos in March as there’s more to see and do there when not beach weather. And if you do decide to do Mykonos be sure there’s a ferry from Mykonos to Santorini for your dates. And same for Santorini to Crete. There should be ferry service but the route starts different times every year so you do want to be certain.

I was originally going to fly into Athens, then do Mykonos, Santorini and possibly Paros all in 10 days. Now I’ve decided to skip Athens altogether and just do the other 3 islands. We’re going the last week in August. So I have 3 questions: 1) Which is better to fly into – Mykonos or Santorini? (I’m coming from Boston). 2) Are these 3 islands fairly close to each other and reachable by ferry? 3) Do I have enough time in 10 days to do 3 nights in Mykonos, 4 in Santorini then 2 nights in Paros?

As always, thanks a bunch! Cici

1) Both are fine just be sure to fly in and out of different islands (it’s a waste to backtrack to your original island). So fly into Mykonos and out of Santorini, or into Santorini and out of Mykonos. 2) Yes, they’re close and easy to get between with ferries. 3) 10 days is fine for 3 islands.

Thank you so much for all the info on this site. I will definitely become a patron when I get more into the weeds of planning. I have always dreamed of visiting Greece (my #1 dream vacation) and I finally get to go this summer!

My boyfriend and I are traveling there in early to mid-June and need some help figuring out which places to visit and how long to stay at each location. We will probably only be spending about 7 days in Greece.

We are in our 20s and looking for a fun and romantic trip. We both love hiking and adventure activities. I love beaches and views. He is interested in the historical sites and Ancient Greece. We do not care about parties or shopping. What itinerary should we follow? Where should we go and how should we budget our time in each locations?

I would do 3 of the following 4 places: Athens (1 full day), Naxos (2 to 3 days), Crete (3 to 4 days), Santorini (3 to 4 days).

Hi Dave, We would love your help, we are a party of four 50 plus adults from Australia and never have been too the Greek Island. We’re not sure whether we should be going to naxos or paros , we are there for 4 days and not sure whether just to stay on one island and ferry to the other and if you think possible even a day trip to santorini. Our priorities are culture and history, swimming in beautiful beaches, beautiful views, nice towns, and food and drink. We’re not interested in clubbing at all, but more laid-back late night bars definitely appeal. This will be our one big holiday this year as we will be celebrating my 50th birthday while there so want it too be special. Our budget is more mid-range than sky-high, and hoping for help with hotels to stay at.

This may be way too vague for you to help! But if you can, it would be hugely appreciated! Sharon

My top recommendation is to go to Naxos and stay there (don’t bother with day trips). If by 4 days you mean 4 nights then you could spend 2 on Naxos and 2 on Paros but that wouldn’t be my first choice.

Hello Dave, great and very informing web page. Added to my favorite pages. We are a couple with an average age of early mid 30s and we prefer calm places. We like nature, old/authentic cities, swimming and snorkelling. Also we like nice restaurants, calm and remote places. Next year, between 18-26 August we plan to visit Greek Islands and my father wants to come with us. Our alternatives are: 1st alternative: Santorini 2 nights, Naxos 2 nights, Amorgos 3 nights, Naxos 1 night, 2nd alternative: Santorini 2 nights, 3 nights Ios, 3 nights Naxos, 3rd alternative: although irrelevant to the other alternatives Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonnisos. which alternative do you suggest? Amorgos or Ios? We will be very happy if you can give an idea, we know that all the Greek Islands are very beautiful, thus it is hard to make a decision: Thank you for your help.

In favor of the Ios itinerary is that the 1st alternative seems a little busy and rushed. In favor of the Amorgos itinerary is that you’re visiting during the peak of the high season and Ios and Naxos will be very busy, Amorgos less so. I’d let those two criteria guide what you decide.

Hi Dave, I used this guide last year to plan my first ever trip to Greece and it was amazing, so amazing that I have to go back! Both my partner and I are 32. My itinerary last year was: – 2 nights Athens, 6 nights in Naoussa (Stayed in Kallisti, couldn’t recommend highly enough) – 3 nights in Santorini (Blue Mills Suites) – 5 nights in Naxos (Nissaki beach hotel, also amazing). BTW my favourite was probably Paros!

So, what should I do this year? My thoughts: – Fly into Chania in Crete – Stay 4 days there in Casa Delfino then move to – Agios Nikolaos or Elounda for 3-4 nights. Which area is nicer and what hotels should I stay in? – Then I’m thinking of taking the ferry to Mykonos and staying in Mykonos town for 3 nights. Up for a party and chillout on a few expensive beaches! – Any advice on where to go after for around 5 nights? Back to Naxos (we didn’t really move from the town last year unlike in Paros where we rented a car and saw the whole island)? What about Folegandros? Tinos? Milos? We would like somewhere with a nice town to walk around, upmarket, more couple less family, nice bars and things to see during the day bit also nice beaches etc?

What do you think of the itinerary and choices? Note: If you would swap Crete or Mykonos with other islands I would be open to that too! Thanks so much, Stephen

Chania is a great choice. A wonderful charming town. Elounda is great for a quiet laid back stop, Agios Nikolaos has a more interesting vibe and is more of a real town. Also very charming. I prefer Ag Nik but Elounda has more luxurious hotels. ( Crete hotels .) Naxos has lots to see in the interior so if you didn’t explore then certainly consider that. Folegandros and Milos are both incredible. Folegandros is more suited to walking and relaxing (and has some top notch restaurants and hotels). On Milos you need to do a tour and get out and actively explore to do it justice. Geologically Milos is stunning. A little like Santorini but with better beaches.

Hi! I have fallen in love with the cyklades and have visited Santorini, Ios, Naxos and Folegandros in late june. Folegandros was the best, a fantastic island. We are now thinking about going to Paros the last week in September. Naoussa seem to be a great place. What’s the weather like in late September? Is it still quite warm? I also wonder about the sea conditions. May the sea be rough at that time of the year? I don’t like wavy ferry rides 😨 Thank you for a good sight! Ulrika, Sweden

Weather is usually great in late September. Still warm, water is beautiful. See is often rougher in August when the wind can blow hard from the north.

I’m hoping you can help myself and a friend decide where to go. We are hoping to go away around mid August for 10 days-2 weeks. We’re looking for a sunny place and beaches to tan and relax during the day, with some big nightlife and a good strip (the odd daytime activity maybe too). However we are in mid 20s so want to go somewhere with the same age group or older. I’ve been to Zante and although it was super fun at the time (I was about 18) and loved having the strip etc, just don’t want to be the older people there anymore! Money is also fairly tight, so nothing too expensive (was thinking santorini maybe before hearing the price along with it).

Any recommendation(s) would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks, Sorcha

Paros is what you want.

My wife and I are trying to find out which island is best, we are traveling with a newborn, and we are looking for beautiful white sand beaches, cozy and classic greek towns and stay in a hip hotel, also hip restaurants would be a plus. I understand that August is a popular month but also trying to stay away from crazy overcrowded islands. Do you think is possible to find all in one island?

I think Naxos would be the best island for you: incredible beaches, wonderful villages, great restaurants, and some very good hotels (though I don’t think I’d go so far as to call them hip – but nice, for sure). The farther south you go from Naxos Town the quieter the beaches get – so keep going to find the balance you prefer. If you want an island with a little more hip but beaches not quite as perfect then try Paros. If you want to err on the quieter and idyllic side then Antiparos or Ikaria.

my husband and I arrive in Athens this coming Sunday and fly home the following Sunday. Trying to make the most of our short stay and based on your recommendation we are choosing to tour Athens on the front end of our trip, then Ferry to Paros and then Santorini.

Is two nights in Athens enough? That would leave us one full day of touring the Plaka. Which Island would you recommend staying 3 nights, Paros or Santorini?

Many thanks for your great site!

Rebecca McLean

One full day in Athens is perfect and enough time for most visitors (just try to pack in as much as you can and definitely get up to the Acropolis). I’d spend longer on Santorini than on Paros.

Hi Dave! Your website is simply amazing and has answered most of my questions thus far. (Basically used your website and information to plan 90% of our trip)! My sister (32 years young) and myself (28 years young) are traveling to Greece from 22nd August – 6th September. This will be the first visit for my sister and my second visit so I am trying to show her my favourite places as well as visit new ones myself (i have only ever been to Mykonos and Santorini). Our trip starts in Athens for 2 days, Mykonos for 6 days, Santorini for 5 days and leaving us with 3 days to spare at the end of the trip. (4th Sept – 7th Sept) We fly out of Athens in the am on the 7th Sept so need to be back in Athens prior to this. Question: Is it worth taking the evening ferry on the 4th Sep to Crete (Heraklion) from Santorini, then the bus onto Chania so that we can do the Samaria Gorge on the 5th? Spending the full day in Chania on the 6th and taking the last flight out of Chania that night back to Athens? (or do you think this is trying to squeeze in too much in too little time)? Alternatively, we are looking at going to Elafonissi Beach instead of the Gorge… but are not sure what will be more our while!! Basically we just want to see the best bits in a VERY small window…. so if you have any other recommendation as to what we can do with these 2-3 days would be much appreciated!

It’s doable and probably worth it. But it would be easier and more practical to use those 2/3 days with a stop in Naxos or Paros on the way between Mykonos and Santorini.

Hi dave – very cool and informative site! We’re a family of 6 (all adults) traveling to Greece for the first time…and most likely the last time. We’d like to visit some historic sites, but more interested in experiencing Greek life in small towns. Beaches and nightlife are not important. I’m looking to put together a balanced itinerary covering 10 days (11 nights) and had the following in mind:

2 days (3 nights) road trip to include Delphi, Kardamyli, Monemvasia, Nafplio. 2 days (2 nights) Hydra 2 days (2 nights) Santorini 1 day (1 night) Naxos 3 days (3 nights) Athens

Any suggestions? I’m not stuck on this, so feel free to make recommendations.

Thanks Kobus

Looks great. I’m partial to Santorini so would recommend a day more there (and cut one day from Athens). But otherwise, should be a great trip.

Hello! Our family has traveled to a few Greek destinations on a cruise – Corfu, Kefallonia, and Santorini several years (and three kids) ago. We are coming back to celebrate a (big) birthday in September. We have four kids, from 14 months to 8 years, all of whom will travel with us. We are aiming for 10-12 days. We are mulling over: – Santorini – luxury hotel for 2-3 nights (Perivolas/Katikies or similar) – Crete – 5-6 days, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Elafonissi Beach worth it? – Naxos – this trip or maybe next, Agios Prokopis, Agios Anna, Plaka Beach, Naxos Town – Skopelos – have seen it is a bit under the radar but being lauded as one of the world’s best islands and have not seen much on it here. Skopelos Town, Paralia Stafilos, Mamma Mia sights…Thoughts? – Hydra – it’s close to Athens, and looks lovely, but is it worth the stop with the kids? May skip for another trip.

We really want beautiful beaches, scenic seaside towns, great food, and once we get there, easy. I don’t mind a little schlepping, as it is part of the adventure. Also, I get really seasick every time I take a ferry or whale watching boat in the Pacific and am curious about that in the Mediterranean in September.

How would you route us, given we would like to stay put a few days in the beginning to get over the time difference? I would like to do Santorini toward the end, but have some beach time right after. Thank you for being a great resource!

You’ve obviously given serious thought to your schedule and it looks good, but given your relatively compressed timeframe, it might be difficult to fit it all in. Travelling between destinations really eats into your down time. Carrying kids along adds to the pleasure, but also slows down movements. So, what’s best?

Crete, Santorini, and Naxos look quite doable within the 12-day block, but Crete’s beaches are scattered throughout a very LARGE island, Santorini really only has Kamari and Perissá (and some southern coast bays) and Naxos does have nice places to swim. If you choose only to visit those three islands in your relatively short time, you will do well.

You’d probably really want to stick to Chania (Platanias/Agia Marina) for your Crete stint, with a day trip to the very worth-it Elafonisi Beach. Kids will work well in this area and if you don’t mind schlepping a tad, you’ll do well.

Be cautious with Santorini and kids. Some hotels don’t do kids (check carefully) and not all hotels are suitable for kids along the caldera lip. Many steps, confined spaces and other guests who don’t actually want to hear kids … Here’s an idea – look for a child-friendly hotel (perhaps on the beach at Perissá) and base yourself where the kids will like it and then take them to the caldera scene. There are a couple of child-friendly hotels on the Caldera, but they get booked very early in the year.

Looking at the wildcards Hydra and more so, Skopelos … you will have quite challenging logistical issues in weaving Skopelos into the mix. Great island – Mamma Mia and all that – but no airport and only serious boat connections with the land port of Volos … It warrants a separate trip.

Hydra is an easy add-on to Athens, but only if you have the free days and you will want at least two nights. It’s a very walkable place (no cars) – or take a horse and cart – but not a beach destination. If you have a spare day in Athens, take the local ferry to Angistri for a great day on the beach.

Ferries in September? The big winds are usually over and it’s commonly smooth sailing, so no worries on that score. The Mediterranean is not the Pacific ;-)

Good evening Dave

We are a family of 4 adults (ages early 50’s and early 20’s). Will have 6 nights in the Greek islands. We originally planned to stay all 6 nights in Firostefani on Santorini. However, Crete is appealing given our interests below and typical day (see below).

THE ASK: Given this is our first visit to the Greek islands, for 6 nights, our interests and our typical day on holiday, what would you recommend?

1. Stay all 6 nights on a single island – 6 nights Santorini or 6 nights Crete (with day trip to either island)? 2. Split time between the two islands? If so, what is your recommended split between Santorini and Crete?

Our interests: Natural sights and wonders Culture (food, drink/wine, meeting/talking with locals) Historical & Archeological Sites & Stories Daily quiet R&R time at pool or beach

Our preferred activities: Pool & Beach (incl snorkeling/diving, swimming, water sports) Hiking, Biking, & Scooters Visiting historical/archeology sites, quintessential local towns/views, and vineyards

Typical day on holiday: Rise and 1hr workout @ 7:30am Coffee, danish, relax & catch up on news and social media AM Activity for 1-2 hrs (pool, beach, hike, scooters, boat tour, archeological sites) Lunch – onsite or off-site while window shopping at a quintessential town Pool or Beach for 1-2 hours (including nap/book reading time) or planned activity Unstructured time until dinner Dinner around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM with spectacular sunset view Nightlife for 1-2 hrs

Darryl Miclat

It’s a tough call. The good news is that whatever you decide, it will feel like the right thing after you’ve done it. You’ll almost certainly say to yourself, “I’m so glad we saw both islands” or “I’m so glad we had 6 full days on Santorini.” In deciding I would ask whether a return trip to Greece is likely or possible in the next couple of years. If so, then spend your 6 days on Santorini and explore that island, then return to Crete at some time in the future for a deserving 7 to 10 days. But if this is a one-time deal for the foreseeable future then do 3 days on Santorini and 3 days in Crete. (Whatever you decide don’t do a day trip to the other island as it’s not worth the time and effort.)

My fiancé and I are interested in the Greek Islands for our honeymoon in early August. I know it’s not the ideal time to go, but it’s right after our wedding. We are two women in our late thirties. We’d fly into Athens and then I was thinking Santorini for 4 nights and then possibly one other island. We’re into the beach, snorkeling/boat trip, maybe a hike or bike ride and amazing food. We’re not interested in the party scene, but definitely want to explore amazing restaurants. You know, the perfect amount of romance and relaxation combined with culture and epic scenery. Suggestions? Thanks in advance!

Cheers, Sam

Yes, Santorini for sure. Other good choices would be Naxos (good hikes, traditional food), Paros (trendy nightlife and restaurants), and Milos (very cool boat trips around the island).

Hi Dave, you truly do offer and insanely helpful guide to Greece. Thank you so much for doing that, I know it’s super hard work to keep up with responding to people! You do it very well.

I’m sorry if you covered this in another part of your site, (either I’m technically challenged or there just isn’t a search function for your site) but I’m curious about Corfu. From what I can tell, you mentioned it once in your site under your post about best beaches. The Paleokastritsa area is something that has caught my attention for a while and is on my list, and then I saw pictures of Nissakids Bay and that looked kind of amazing.

I’m curious why you don’t mention Corfu more? Is it just because it’s not the region that you tend to be in, and is so far away from the rest of the islands? Or is there something else about it that you don’t like? I very much would value your opinion on this matter! thank you so much, Kimberly

Corfu is wonderful. Great beaches, food, beautiful, and Corfu Town is charming. One disadvantage of Corfu is that there aren’t any nearby islands that are easy to ferry to. So you’re not going to be island hopping like in the eastern Greek islands. But if you’re fine missing out on that then Corfu is a great choice.

this is the most helpful website I’ve ever come across, thank you so much for all your information! I wanted to ask, my boyrfriend and I will be visiting Santorini from March 28th-April 4th, and even though it’s a short period we were hoping to do a day trip to Ios. But it doesn’t seem like ferries are available on those dates. Do you know if any ferries go to Ios and back on same day during our dates?

Thanks a lot! Faye

Things could change but as of now there are no ferries between Ios and Santorini until later in the year.

My husband & I were planning to go on an organized Hiking the Greek Isles tour in May, that we just found out is cancelled. It is our 10 year anniversary so we’d still love to plan a trip on our own for about 2 weeks in length. We are a bit apprehensive because we are from Canada and have never been to Europe before. I have several questions I’m hoping you can help me out with. One, how much should we budget/day for eating out for lunch & dinner? Most of the hotels look like they include breakfast. Two, how much should we budget for ferries? We are considering around 2 days in Athens, 2 days in Tinos, 2 days in Naxos, 3 days in Santorini & 4 days in Crete. Our main goals are seeing the beauty of the Greek islands, getting some physical activity in (walking & hiking), and spending time together. Any input would be much appreciated! Thanks very much! Jennifer

Budgeting for Greece is always going to be subject to what your expectations and needs are. Assuming that you, like many travellers, like to eat a filling breakfast, savour maybe a light lunch and feast on a heavier dinner (or vice versa), enjoy a drink with your meals and are not totally vegetarian/vegan and prefer to sleep in comfort and cleanliness, then there is a set of figures that can be guesstimated.

Comfortable accommodation in May for 2 persons can be found for between €40 and €80 per night. A meal for two that includes a starter, two main meals, salad and a litre carafe of local wine will cost you around €25-35. This can vary widely depending of level of establishment you eat at. A cheap vegetarian dish (pulses or vegetable) will set you back by no more than €5-6 a plate. If you get your breakfast included at the hotel, that is good because breakfast can add another €15 for the two of you per day.

Prices do vary across the country with Mykonos and Santorini being perceptibly dearer, but the season is in your favour with May being considered shoulder season with negotiable accommodation rates.

Ferries are not really cheap any more – certainly not like they used to be – but the vessel fleet is better, safer and faster than in previous years so the cost is justified. You can get exceptionally cheap deals on longer-haul routes if you are prepared to forego a booked seat: €14 v €40 on a run to a mid-distant island, but it’s probably wise to consider taking fast catamarans to get to core islands (Mykonos, Santorini, Paros etc.) and even then, go the extra 10/15% for Business or even VIP class for the extra comfort. On longer hauls it can be cheaper to fly if you seek out flights online and book beforehand.

A good place to start researching your ferries is gtp.gr . Once you have got a hit, go to the indicated ferry company and punch in your dates. You can book online and pick up your tickets when you get to Greece.

Finally, as for walking, the Greek islands lend themselves very easily to good walks. You will enjoy the caldera rim walk in Santorini, the Samaria Gorge walk in Crete, and basically walking anywhere you like on other islands. Check out the islands maps and walking trails on maps available here , that will give you a handy heads-up.

I am a travel agent in Melbourne, Australia and I have used your website regularly.

Really fantastic work and I hope that you don’t mind a professional agent using your services. I have referred many customers to your site as it is easy to go though and full of fabulous information.

I am a bit stuck here with a young couple late 20’s, trendy and cool. They have done Santorini and Mykonos last year and they have booked now 2 weeks for Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. Is there anything you could give me that would help me finding great hotels and places to stay on those islands? Their budget is $500 per night per room.

Thanks again for your great work!

Kindest regards JP Boutefeu, Personal Travel Manager

Excellent choice of islands, though getting between them presents one or two challenges (they are not as conveniently connected like the Cycladic or Dodecanese islands so island hopping is not as popular in this island group). All three islands are served by airports with year-round connections to Athens and in the Summer with international charter flights from Europe. Let’s take the pros and cons of each island.

Lefkada is an island, but is connected to the mainland by a causeway at the northern tip and its access airport is on the mainland at Aktio (Preveza). It is an island popular with Greeks and mainly European visitors. Italians and Brits predominate. It is green, verdant, has good beaches and facilities and is compact enough to get around easily. Tourism is centred on the east coast around the port village of Nydri. It is low-key accommodation with villas and small family-run hotels predominating. Off-shore from Nydri are a couple of islands worth visiting on excursions: the sizeable Meganisi (car ferries run to and fro’) and the private Skorpios Island which belong to the Onassis family. On your own hired motor boat, you can heave-to on just one private beach on the north side of the island and swim and claim boasting rights to having swum on Aristotle Onassis’ private piece of Greece.

Between Nydri and the next main tourism centre is the little port and beach of Mikros Gialos (small bay) that is a great little base for individual travellers for a day or three. The port village of Vasiliki on the southern underbelly of Lefkada is a haven for windsurfers: see this page or this one for more information. The little village is very pretty and is a good base for general holiday-making (as are the two other places). From Vasiliki there is a regular local ferry that runs to Fiskardo on Kefallonia (via Ithaca/Ithaki).

Kefallonia was severely shaken by an earthquake in 1953 and thereafter lost its quaint gloss. The picturesque northern port of Fiskardo however, escaped much of the destruction and remains to this day one of the main focal points for visitors to the island, so is a good spot for a stay of 2-3 days. Pretty, waterfront cafés and restaurants and a cosy, folksy feel predominate. Asos, between Fiskardo and Argostoli is a west coast ‘resort’ village that pulls in its fair share of visitors and the view down to Asos from the main island road is one of the most photographed spots on Kefallonia.

Argostoli is the capital on the mid-west flank of the island and is not really a destination itself, that moniker falling to the contiguous beach scene running from Lourdata south eastward to Skala. While development might have caught up here by now, it should still be a pleasant beach scene and focus for a relaxing stay. The Melissani Cave on the east coast is a must attraction and while it can be visited on a day excursion from anywhere on Kefallonia the two villages or Agia Efthymia and Poros are low-key ‘resorts’ pulling in a regular crowd of travellers and may warrant a look-in. The port of Pesada (just west of Lourdata) is the home of the local ferry to Zakynthos (Zante).

Zakynthos is an island of certain extremes: beauty and crass, mass tourism of the worst sort. The islands – like all the Ionian islands is lush and verdant and boasts the now famous ‘shipwreck beach’ (Navagio) that many seek to travel to and swim at. Yes, it’s worth it and numerous excursion boats make the run from ports on the west side of the island. Environmentalists and capitalists clash daggers at Laganas where the mass tourism trade is carried out to the detriment of the Caretta Caretta, or loggerhead turtle that loves the beach as much as British tourists on a binge. Read this page for the background. There is an alternative scene to Laganas at Vasilikos over to the east, but it is much more low-key and less busy.

Transport between the three islands relies on local ferries and these are unsophisticated ‘landing-craft’ style boats that do little more than ferry passengers and vehicles in Spartan comfort, but they are very functional and vital to the inter-island communication. There is plenty of on the ground support excursions and infrastructure and the islands are well-used to tourism; the only exception is that travellers will need to use a bit of independence in getting between the islands.

Hi Dave! My husband and I are planning a trip to Greece in late May/early April. We already plan to spend a few nights on Santorini, and are trying to choose one other island to pair with it (will have 3 nights on other island). We are in our late 20s and are more interested in outdoors (hiking, exploring, beaches, boat trips). I’d like to keep travel time to a minimum, so I have been looking at the closer islands – Milos, Paros, and Naxos. Do you have any recommendations or thoughts on a good island to pair with Santorini? Thank you! Ann

Naxos for the hiking. Milos for the boat trips. Both for beaches and exploring.

Thank you for putting together such a great site. My husband and I are planning a trip to the Islands in May – neither of us have been and, honestly, have no idea where to even start putting together an itinerary. We have at least 14 nights to spend there (and may be able to push that to 17). I’m in my early 30s, my husband’s in his early 40s. Our priorities are culture and history, swimming, beautiful views, nice towns, and food and drink. We’re not interested in clubbing at all, but more laid-back late night bars definitely appeal. This is probably our one big holiday this year so while the budget is more mid-range than sky-high, we can push it a bit for the right places or experiences. We’re happy to take in quite a few islands, or with a mix of longer and shorter stays.

This may be way too vague for you to help! But if you can, it would be hugely appreciated!

The good news is that all the Greek islands are great. There’s almost no chance that you’ll pick 3 or 4 different islands and come back disappointed. That said, you’re probably best to focus on the Cyclades and of those Naxos, Paros, Antiparos, and Milos have everything you’re looking.

Fabulous site Dave! I am taking my daughter to Greece for 12 days in late May this year as a grad gift (yeah I know…, I think my Dad gave me a Timex watch, but I digress) and we are flying into Santorini expecting to spend 5-6 days there then ferrying over to Mykonos (not really sure why?) for a couple days. A couple days there and then flying into Athens for 2-2.5 days to inject some culture into what is otherwise somewhat hedonistic trip. I was wondering, after reading about other islands whether it is worth going to Mykonos. I’d love to go to Crete but it seems to be tough to squeeze that in. The original plan was to go to Istanbul for a couple days but it seems really sketchy right now. So is Naxos a better idea than Mykonos? Should we stay longer in Santorini? Is 2.5 days too much for Athens? Any and all info is appreciated. Tom

I would recommend Naxos over Mykonos and with 12 days you could easily add Paros too. With Santorini, Paros, and Naxos you’ll get a good mix of different delights and some ferry island hopping too which is fun in itself. 1.5 days in Athens is perfect for most – 1 day for the Plaka, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum area; and a half-day to visit the Archaeological Museum which is a short drive or walk from the Plaka but hard to fit in one day along with the other sights.

We’re planning a Greece trip to celebrate our 25th anniversary in September next year. We plan to arrive in Athens and directly take train to Kalambaka/Meteora (2 nights), then down to Delphi (hotel stay in Athens), a day to see sights in Athens, a day trip to Nafplio and then leave to explore islands. Our plan is to go to Naxos for 4-5 nights, then to Santorini (for our anniversary) for 4 nights, and then to Crete for 5-6 nights. I would like to see Delos and wonder if it’s possible to stop in Mykonos, do the tour to Delos and still be able to catch ferry to Naxos the same day?

Thank you so much for your assistance! We’re looking forward to visiting Greece!

Yes, it’s possible. Get the SeaJet ferry from Athens to Mykonos. It should arrive at 9:30am or shortly after. You’ll have to hurry to store you’re luggage at the Sea and Sky travel agency across from the Old Port and then buy tickets for Delos. The last ferry to Delos leaves at 11am or maybe 11:30am. Ferry to Delos is about 30 minutes. Last ferry back is at 3pm which will give you plenty of time before the last ferry of the day to Naxos (at 6:15pm on SeaJet). All the ferries mention here use the Old Port. Don’t book any ferries that use the New Port or you’ll have trouble making the connections.

It’s still months away but my boyfriend and I (we’re in our late twenties) are thinking about going to a Greek island in the first week of October. We’ve both never been to Greece and we’re wondering what the best Island is for us. We’re on a budget (think €50 per person per day) and would like to go someplace warm and sunny where there’s also a combination of culture and nature. So we can explore in the mornings and relax at the beach in the afternoon. Preferably a sandy beach. We don’t need a lot of nightlife but it would be nice if not the whole island is closing down already. Do you have a suggestion?

Thanks in advance!

I’d go with Naxos: cheap hotels can be found, great walks and hikes through the mountains, wonderful beaches, and popular enough not to be dead in October. €50/per day is doable but you’ll really have to watch it.

We are two guys in our early 30s, we have 12 days for the Greek Islands. We like to swim, ride bikes, or drive on the islands to explore villages, culture, local life, love to eat local food, rest and have beers on beach, stroll and walk around in evening, etc. We will go to Santorini for 3 nights and select Fira according your suggestions, we are confused for next island between Crete and Naxos. Crete is huge but if we choose Naxos as it’s easy to reach from Santorini than does 8-9 days will be boredom in Naxos? Please suggest what’s best and on which place we should look for accommodation in either island you suggest..

Thanks Manik Arora

Yes, I would agree that 8 or 9 days is too long for Naxos – unless you’re happy sitting at the beach for several of those days. But if you’re looking to be semi-active and explore then you’d be best to add Paros and spend 4/5 days on each. Crete, on the other hand, would be perfect for an 8/9 day road trip. Start in Heraklion (where the ferry arrives from Santorini) head east and then south and finally ending up in the western town of Chania where you can fly up home from.

Hi Dave, My husband, another couple, and I are planning a trip to Greece in September. We are staying in Milos for a few nights and were planning on staying at Melian Hotel and Spa….do you know anything about this hotel? I was worried about proximity to things, but it looks like no matter what, we are going to need to rent a car or use the bus system to get around. It seemed though that Melian had 6 or 7 restaurant options within walking distance. Also, any ideas or tips on things to do, see, or go?? We plan to do one of those semi-private sailing tours, but other than that we are an open book. Thanks so much for any input! Laura Carroll

The Melian is great and yes an easy walk to a good range of restaurants in Pollonia. The sailing tours around Milos are the highlight of the island but would also recommend renting a car and exploring the spread out beaches and stunning views. Getting around Milos to see things by bus is doable but definitely easier with a car.

Hi Dave! Your website is so detailed and helpful! I’m starting to plan a trip for late May-early June. We were interested in visiting Santorini, Naxos (we opted for Naxos instead of party-filled Mykonos) and Milos. Our main airport of arrival is Athens. What order should we visit all three islands (in terms of convenience of ferry/flight availability) and how many nights do you recommend allotting to each? Thanks in advance for your time!

Ferries between Naxos and Milos don’t start until June 7th (one each way, every day after that). Ferries between Santorini and Milos start April 28th and there is one every day in each direction. And there are always ferries between Naxos and Santorini. So if the dates work I would fly to Santorini (the longest leg) then ferry to Milos then Naxos and back to Athens. But if you need to travel between Naxos and Milos before the 7th then ferry Athens to Milos to Santorini to Naxos and back to Athens.

Why the Greek island I'd always avoided is now one of my favorites

Greece ticks every box for my ideal summer vacation: It's easy to get to, has excellent weather, there are beautiful sandy beaches and genuine, warm hospitality. It's affordable, and the food is delicious.

There are endless Greek islands to explore and my strategy has been to try a new island each time I visit. I've enjoyed the likes of Mykonos, Crete, Paros, Corfu, Kos and more.

But the most famous island in Greece had stayed firmly off my to-do list. At least, until now.

Sure, Santorini might be well-known for its spectacular sunsets, dreamy ocean views from high atop cliffs, and for being the perfect honeymoon destination. But, whenever I personally thought of Santorini, the negatives were always the first thing that came to mind.

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I worried about the overwhelming cruise ships crowds, and the pushy influencers blocking space to take their perfect sunset selfie. Not to mention overpriced accommodations targeting honeymooners for more than $1,000 a night for a basic hotel room, and baking hot sun sapping my energy while traversing up and down hundreds of stairs each day.

I had easily found Greek perfection in so many other islands (Paros led the pack) with easy travel, few crowds and impressive affordability. So, why worry about Santorini?

A recent out-of-season trip to Greece to earn easy and affordable British Airways status had me thinking about which island to visit. I spent a few days on the island of Ios which was both amazing and frustrating as while there were zero crowds everywhere, but most amenities were closed.

After much research, I decided it was finally time to give Santorini a try. It was early October so I figured the crowds and cruise ships would largely have left for the season.

Santorini's accommodation prices are largely seasonal and were significantly cheaper in October than they had been in July or August. I chose a Hyatt Small Luxury Hotels property and found a great deal at On The Rocks, located in the small village of Imerovigli.

Related: Romance is not dead: A review of On The Rocks, Hyatt's Small Luxury Hotels in Santorini, Greece

I caught the ferry from Ios to Santorini and as the famous island's ferry port came into view, the first signs were not good. Hundreds of tourists were swarming the port, all attempting to maneuver large amounts of luggage around the limited space and uneven surfaces. As the ferry docked, the staff screamed at us to get off as quickly as possible, so they could keep their port stop short.

Once on the dock, there were no obvious signs or paths explaining where to go, and there was an atmosphere of absolute chaos. I was starting to regret my decision and considered jumping right back on the ferry. I could also see two large cruise ships docked at the island, and I imagined encountering thousands of day-trippers swarming into Santorini at that very moment.

Related: These are the best times to visit Greece

Once I arrived at the hotel, though, it was a completely different story. The property was incredible, from the breathtaking views to the hardworking staff and the swimming pool cleverly built right into the side of a cliff. It was an oasis of peace and calm and I felt immediately relaxed. The hotel was reasonably full, but in the village of Imerovigli in October, there were very few other tourists around.

The sunsets right from the hotel weren't bad either.

I could have happily stayed at the resort my entire time in Santorini, but I had one more obstacle to overcome: braving the chaos of Oia to witness those world-famous sunsets over the blue church domes.

In October, I needn't have worried. There were some people around and the most popular viewpoints were full of people holding a favorable spot to watch the sun go down, but it was nothing like I feared it would be. Virtually no selfie-sticks, the cruise ships had gone and though a very diverse crowd of people from all over the world remained, everyone was pleasant and respectful.

It wasn't the most spectacular sunset I've ever seen in my time, but I'm glad I got to experience it. There are plenty of stairs to face in Santorini but the weather was mild enough that I wasn't wiped out from sunstroke.

After the sun went down it was an easy, well-organized bus ride back to Thira (near Imerovigli) for a cheap and cheerful seafood dinner at a local taverna before wandering back to the hotel.

The key to enjoying Santorini for me was being strategic about my visit. If I was to travel there during the summer peak periods I would have undoubtedly had a different experience. Even visiting in the months of May and September in the shoulder season would still have resulted in more crowds and higher prices.

Related: 11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

For me, I think October was the perfect time to visit (as I imagine May would also be for many, as it's outside of peak season but still fairly warm). Accommodation prices dropped considerably at this time of year, and while it wasn't a ghost town like Ios was, there were just enough people to provide genuine atmosphere, without it feeling crowded or unpleasant.

Choosing to stay in an area far away from Oia was also a good idea. It was peaceful in and around my hotel, but I could still head into (and out of) Oia whenever I pleased.

And the weather was absolutely perfect too, around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny each day; perfect for topping up my tan before returning to face a long, cold U.K. winter.

Greece upgraded many of its airports during the COVID-19 pandemic and Santorini Airport (JTR) is new, modern and very easy to use.

Bottom line

I thoroughly enjoyed my October visit to Santorini and it's now one of my favorite Greek islands.

I visited alone, and my wonderful hotel was so romantic I'd love to return there with my partner next year. While I still would never dream of visiting in peak summer, if you are strategic about it you can experience the very best Santorini has to offer in the shoulder season.

I now fully "get" the magic of the place that attracts people from all over the world. I've seen a lot of ocean views in my travels and those endless caldera panoramas from high up the cliffs on Santorini are among the best.

There are plenty of Greek islands you don't need to do any research or preparation to enjoy; just arrive and relax. Santorini definitely takes some planning, but it's well worth the effort if you have the flexibility to avoid the crowds, heat and high prices.

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Inside the tiny Greek neighbourhood hidden on the mainland that’s been likened to Santorini

Hope Brotherton , Travel Reporter
Published : 16:09, 15 Apr 2024
Updated : 16:09, 15 Apr 2024
Published : Invalid Date,

A TINY neighbourhood in Athens has been compared to Santorini by both holidaymakers and travel experts.

Islands like Santorini and Mykonos are a magnet for tourists, with both places becoming crowded during the summer months.

Anafiotika, a tiny neighbourhood in Athens, has been compared to the Greek islands

In recent years, the tiny neighbourhood of Anafiotika in Athens has been compared to the Greek islands by visitors.

Located on the northeastern side of the Acropolis Hill , the picturesque neighbourhood was built during the reign of Otto of Greece in the 19th Century.

When construction workers were needed to work on the King's Palace, they came from Anafi - a tiny Cycladic island located near Santorini and Ios .

Because the workers needed somewhere to live, they built themselves houses in Athens, hence the name Anafiotika.

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My trip to Greek island loved by A-Listers and tiny neighbour with sun bed ban

The residents of Anafiotika were all exclusively from Anafi, until 1922, when other immigrant communities arrived in Athens.

Just over 100 years after they were built, 950 houses were destroyed in order for archaeologists to conduct research.

But in the 1970s, the Greek state began buying the picturesque buildings to help save their heritage, with around 45 houses remaining in the neighbourhood to this day.

Because the houses were built by construction workers from Anafi, the buildings greatly resemble the architecture of a Greek island, with their white-washed walls and blue window frames.

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While Anafiotika has flown under the tourist radar on most travel bucket lists in Athens , several holidaymakers have gone out of their way to visit the tiny village in recent years.

Travel blogger One Quarter Greek wrote: "The quirk of Anafiotika is that it looks like a village of an island.

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"With its white walls, blue doors, narrow streets, plants everywhere, it really reminds you of a typical Cycladic island ."

The little-known area has even been reviewed by holidaymakers on TripAdvisor , with one person saying: "It's just like being on Santorini!

They added: "An amazing traditional Greek village on a hillside at the base of the Acropolis, packed with quintessentially 'Greek' homes and restaurants.

"It's a bit hard to find (it's not a tourist attraction, just a neighborhood), but well worth the effort. A visit to Athens is not complete without visiting Anafiotika."

Located on the northeastern slope of the Acropolis, just a six-minute walk from the Plaka neighbourhood , Anafiotika can be quite difficult to find.

The main thing to do in Anafiotika is wander through the narrow alleyways and quaint streets.

There are plenty of other things to do in Athens, including the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and the views from Lycabettus Hill.

Cine Thission is another must-visit experience in the Greek capital.

Dubbed the world's coolest cinema , the outdoor cinema has a large screen with views of the Acropolis in the background.

Both easyjet and Jet2 operate direct flights from the UK to Athens, with prices starting from £31 for a one-way ticket in April.

There are other islands and destinations in Greece that have been likened to Santorini, including Folegandros.

Folegandros

Located near Paros, Folegandros has been compared to the popular Greek island in recent years, with one added bonus - it has fewer crowds.

Greek travel agency Greeka wrote: “Relatively untouched by international tourists, Folegandros island still manages to keep its unspoiled charm.”

While the island doesn't have its own airport, it can be reached by ferry from Athens, Santorini or Piraeus.

The island is home to three villages, two beaches and accommodation starts from as little as £25.50 per night per person.

Three little-known Greek islands to visit

There are plenty of Greek islands to visit, including several little-known spots that are free from the crowds.

Located in the Dodecanese Sea, Symi is a fairytale-like island home to traditional Greek villages and harbour-front bars and cafes. Reaching the tiny island became a lot more accessible after Jet2 announced the launch of a new route from the UK.
Despite being twice the size of Mykonos, Tinos is often overlooked by most holidaymakers. But holiday demand for the island is predicted to grow thanks local food and sandy beaches.
Meanwhile, the island of Paros has a wave of chic new hotels opening. The island has its own airport - making it much easier to visit than some other smaller islands in Greece that can only be accessed by ferry.

If you don't want to go this far, then a beautiful UK seaside town has been compared to a Greek island.

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And another seaside town in the UK is also home to dolphins, whales and puffins, as well as amazing castles.

The area is located on the northeastern slope of the Acropolis

How to do Santorini without the crowds

By Arta Ghanbari

Image may contain Person Plant Landmark and Santorini

Santorini island, Greece.

The image of blue and white cave houses in Oia, hanging above the sea like a constellation along the lunar, maroon coloured rock face has become an emblem of the Greek islands. But as the tale goes with such discoveries of beauty, overcrowding and overdevelopment has become an uncomfortable reality on several parts of Santorini.

At just 76 square kilometres and with a local population of about 15,000, Santorini receives two million visitors a year and has over a thousand hotels , with a handful of openings each year. Luckily, however, most visitors chase the postcard views of Oia and pay the painful price of staying there, leaving the rest of the island unspoilt.

Though Greece has countless islands and areas on the mainland that rival the beauty of Santorini, this bucket list destination is a must see – a kind of Disney World of sorts, much like entering a spectacle rather than a low-key island hideout. Its choice of excellent hotels add to its magic – from cave houses to stays in vineyards and beach resorts.

Here are our do’s and don’ts for seeing the authentic side of Santorini beyond the tourist traps.

By Tal Dekel-Daks , Arabella Bowes , Antonia Bentel , Virginia Clark and Arta Ghanbari

Getting around

While there’s an efficient bus schedule in the summer, their routes don’t allow for off-piste visits to some of the most charming villages, beautiful views and empty beaches. Most don’t think about renting a car, which even in high summer leaves the roads pretty quiet and easy to navigate. Plus, you won't have to be one of a few hundred queuing under the scorching sun for the next bus, or cut your visit short because you’re bound to a schedule.

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Where to stay

If you must be close to Oia, then stay in Finkia or Imerovigli, the village just below and within walking distance. The accommodation is more affordable yet there are plenty of five-stars, and the crowds are slightly thinner. From this vantage point, you have a better view of the caldera, Skaros Rock and Oia and the neighbouring islands of Thoros and Thilasia. The main beach strip is Perivolos in the south lined with hotels and slightly hideous beach bars and tavernas, but there are a few gems between them. If you’re not fixated with being by the seaside, inland villages such as Pyrgos and Emporio have charming B&Bs surrounded by vineyards as well as villas and apartments to live more like a local. Plus, you’re within easy access of wine tastings.

Things to do in Santorini

Do walk the iconic route from Fira to Oia along the caldera, or at least a section of it (the full walk is over two hours). Watch the sunset at Akrotiri Lighthouse on the southernmost tip, from which you get a view over the island on one side and the open sea to the other. Don’t fall for the overpriced, mediocre restaurants in Oia - the best flavours on the island are inland. Finikia, a 30-minute walk from Oia, is full of charming tavernas. Lefkes is one of the best to try - but be prepared to wait. Take a day trip to the island of Thirasia and walk the dusty, lunar terrain. There’s also a great stony beach called Riva, which has a Blue Flag accreditation.

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Where to swim

Don’t expect to swim in calm, clear, turquoise waters like that of Mykonos, Milos, Paros or other neighbours in the Cyclades. The sea can be choppy, and the water black due to the volcanic sands. Santorini is more about the pools than the sea and with good reason. Due to the vernacular cave architecture and small footprints, most hotels will have plunge pools rather than long lap pools, bar a few such as Istoria on Perivolos Beach and Mystique in Oia which are two of the best hotels on the island. If you must get into the sea, the beaches in the south are more sheltered and your best bet - Vlichada or Perivolos.

Villages to visit

Pyrgos and Emporio are the most beautiful, and still free of mass tourism. In white-painted Pyrgos, the former capital, have a drink and snack at Penelope's Ouzeri, and climb to the castle for breathtaking views. On your way, you’ll pass shops selling local goods and crafts – from olive oil to bath products, ceramics and textiles – as well as galleries, small tavernas and gossiping elderly ladies. Emporio is less refined, and just as beautiful for it. Crowned by a Venetian castle, it feels a place actually lived and used by locals unlike the tourist spots that dominate the island. Finikia has a similar more traditional appeal.

Something to consider

If there is anywhere to prioritise spending on a hotel in your holiday budget, it’s here. The cave hotels are truly incredible and worth it. The design of Vora, off a quiet alley just outside Oia, was a painstakingly collaboration between its owner Yannis Bellonias and K-Studio in Athens, who are behind some of the most stylish hotels in Greece. From the choice of stone flooring , bespoke architectural features, furniture and lighting , everything was made especially for the hotel’s five rooms. Yannis’s own cave home, just above, is also available to rent, and features a rooftop pool. Beyond Vora, Santorini is not short of luxury hotels that offer a more traditional approach to five-star - Katikies, Canaves, Andronis and Mystique are your best bet for the all-white aesthetic.

By Charlotte McCaughan-Hawes

By Rachel Howard

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5 new hotels to experience in greece this summer.

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The town of Oia on the Greek island of Santorini.

As the summer season in Greece officially begins, new properties are set to open to lure visitors to this perennial favorite. The marquee islands Mykonos and Santorini are, as usual, the setting for new vacation options but so are islands across the island chains that aren’t usually in the conversation.

The view of sunset from Santo Mine Oia Suites on Santorini.

Santo Mine Oia Suites Set to open April 20 th in the village of Oia in Santorini’s northwest, this 37 suite resort was carved into the famous island cliffs above Ammoudi Bay, site of dueling tavernas on its beach. Each of the suites has its own pool or Jacuzzi and clear, private views of the sunset that crowds gather elsewhere in Oia to observe. The interiors of the suites are neutral in color and contemporary with a few striped or print accessories, leaving the drama to the outdoors. And if gazing at that view isn’t relaxing enough, there’s also a spa with a traditional hammam.

One of the two Villas by Santo Collection on Santorini.

Nearby, those who need more space and privacy can find both in the new Villas by Santo Collection , two four bedroom villas, one 2508 square feet, the other 2766 square feet, also perched on the cliffs with sunset and sea views. Both have extensive outdoor spaces, pools and personal concierges to organize private chefs and exclusive excursions. And they can be combined to accommodate 16 guests.

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The view over the sea and Mykonos Town from DEOS Mykonos.

DEOS Mykonos The busy Daktylides brothers, who have expanded their father’s original hotel presence on Mykonos that started with a bed and breakfast into the 12 resort Myconian Collection spread around this popular island, open DEOS, their newest, in May. (It’s also a member of The Set Collection .) Set on a hilltop overlooking the sea, the island’s famous windmills and across to the islands of Delos, Syros, and Tinos, but within a five minute walking distance of Mykonos Town, the resort provides a private, calm environment despite its proximity to town. Accommodations within the classic whitewashed Cycladic architecture range from 323 square foot rooms with a private hot tub or pool to the 1,292 square foot, two bedroom Alpha Residence with an extensive terrace and large private pool. The brothers’ emphasis on well executed, local cuisine is showcased in the Epico Restaurant and wellness practices in the full service Sana Spa with treatments utilizing local botanicals plus Pilates, yoga and a marble indoor pool.

The local stone facade of Gundari in Folegandros

Gundari Secluded Folegandros, northwest of Santorini and with a permanent population of just 600 residents, has had some tourist development over the years with simple hotels near the main town but the tone here is still sleepy and authentic. Gundari, opening mid-May, is its first reach into the luxury market, but one designed to fit into the environment with natural materials taking center stage including the façade created with stones excavated from the 80 acre cliffside property. The 25 suites and two villas all include timber and stone plus neutral hued contemporary designs from the Athens studio Block722 that fuse Greek and Scandinavian lines. The restaurant Orizon will feature modern interpretations of Greek cuisine by Michelin starred chef Lefteris Lazarou with ingredients from its organic farm; the spa, an array of healing treatments from holistic practice and ancient Greek rituals. The staff will also organize private boat and diving experiences to explore the region.

A villa at One & Only One & Only Kéa Island

One & Only Kéa Island Part of the Cyclades but without the typical whitewashed architecture, blue domed churches and tourist hordes, Kéa is only 30 minutes away by speedboat or 15 minutes by helicopter from Athens, making it a popular weekend spot for well heeled city residents. Starting June 1, travelers will be able to discover the island for themselves while checking into this cliffside resort situated on 161 acres on the island’s west side. The 63 one- and two-bedroom villas are spacious, open, airy and contemporary with private pools and views, some 360 degrees, of the sea or the mountains. And the rich cuisine for which the island is known is on display in the main restaurant Atria, the Kaiki Pool Bar, Epicora Wine Bar and Bond Beach Club. Excursions include sailing, diving/snorkeling or a trip across to Cape Sounion on the mainland and the 5 th Century B.C. Temple of Poseidon .

Grikos Bay in Patmos, the location of Patmos Aktis, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Greece.

Patmos Atkis, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Greece In the Dodecanese island chain in the eastern Aegean close to Türkiye, Patmos has long been regarded as a deeply spiritual place as the site in which Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation; the Monastery of Saint-John the Theologian and the Cave of Apocalypse are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Apart from its religious significance, though, the island is also known its natural beauty, beaches and fishing villages. Patmos Atkis, located in Grikos Bay, is reopening in June after a major renovation and rebranding as a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. The 56 rooms, suites and villas (more will open next year) will be designed in a soothing color palette of creams, whites and soft blues accessorized with local artifacts and artwork. The local Greek cuisine in Plefsis Tavern will have a relaxed frame: a taverna on the beach, a setting that could not be more perfectly Greek.

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Outrageous reason cruise is skipping Greek island of Santorini

Thomas Bywater

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Crowds gather for the sunset on Santorini. Photo / Getty Images

A cruise line told guests of a last minute change of plans this week, telling passengers its visit to the Greek island of Santorini was cancelled due to overcrowding.

The Princess Cruises’ vessel, Sun Princess has culled the popular port of call from future cruises due to concerns the ‘Fair Island’ was over-congested with tourist traffic.

A letter to guests, seen by the Greek Reporter news site, told sailors that it anticipated significant overcrowding this northern summer which would impact on the experience.

The Sun Princess would now be taking its 4300 guests elsewhere.

“Please note that there is a change to our scheduled itinerary. Due to cruise ship congestion, we will no longer call to Santorini, Greece.”

Instead of calling into the port of Athinios, from June 11 the Sun Princess would be calling into the port of Chania, Crete.

The anticipated congestion refers to the fact that the ship was one of five scheduled to converge on the island in the southern Cyclades. This represented a potential 17,000 cruise passengers disembarking on the island in a single day.

Santorini’s 15,500 locals would have been swamped.

It’s not uncommon for itineraries to be changed, however, with only weeks before the sailing it was unclear if this was in response to requests from Santorini authorities or the cruise planners’ own judgment.

Despite long problems with overcrowding, the whitewashed Cycladic houses and blue domes make Santorini a big draw for tourists.

And despite it being a key reason many guests would have booked the sailing, according to Cruise Hive the passenger contract means that affected passengers will not receive compensation. Partial refunds on deposits or fares would only be considered if itineraries are affected by mechanical failures.

Carnival Cruise Lines, the parent company of Princess Cruises were contacted for comment.

Respect: Santorini locals have begun putting up English language signage to urge better behaviour from tourist crowds. Photo / Save Oia

How crowded is Santorini?

Santorini has long complained of over-tourism and crowding.

According to the Greek Reporter the tourism hub in the Cyclades sees about 1300 visitors per resident.

This is only exaggerated by the narrow, steep streets of the volcanic island.

Local group Save Oia, with aims of “securing a sustainable future for the world’s most beautiful village”, says that congestion from cruise tourism was one of the biggest threats to the Cycladic way of life.

As there is no deep water port on Santorini, the existing port is swamped by small boats which ferry tourists ashore.

The group has put up signs in English around the island encouraging visitors to “respect” property.

“It’s your holiday … but it’s our home,” they read.

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There’s a Santorini in China, a picture-perfect replica of the Greek island!

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : Apr 15, 2024, 15:00 IST

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China's Yunnan province hosts Santorini Dali resort, replicating Greece's Santorini at a cost of over 8 billion yuan. The resort offers iconic blue domes, Greek-themed restaurants, and picturesque wedding settings, attracting dome … Read more

There’s a Santorini in China, a picture-perfect replica of the Greek island!

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Hotel Reviews

This Luxury Waterfront Resort in the Hamptons of Greece Was Just Named One of the Best New Hotels in the World

One&Only just opened its first resort in Greece on the Athens Riviera.

Food and Drink

Activities and experiences.

Family-friendly Offerings
Accessibility and Sustainability

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Courtesy of One&Only

It was Friday night on the Athens Riviera, and I was determined to get dressed up, even though my friend Talia and I had just flown in from L.A. There's precedent for getting dolled up around here, I told her, as we settled into our two-bedroom at the new One&Only Aesthesis in Glyfada, Greece. That might seem a stretch in a seaside suburb 10 miles from Athens, but in the '60s, the Athens Riviera was roughly what Montauk, in New York, is today. Sophia Loren came to this luxurious, Athens-adjacent enclave in '57 to shoot a few movie scenes. Jackie Onassis had a Glyfada villa in the '60s.

I visited the Athens Riviera in 2021, arriving the day Greece reopened to American travelers , to report on this 13-mile coastline as it set out to become the Hamptons of Greece — again. Between the sunsets, sparkling Saronic Gulf, Old Hollywood stories, and new hotels in the works, I was hooked. But in 2021, there was just one luxury hotel, which, while promising, doesn't make a destination. So, I was back, two-and-a-half years later, to see the Riviera take shape.

Talia and I showed up at El Bar by Paco Morales — the chef behind Michelin three-starred Noor in Cordoba, Spain — around 8:30 p.m., and the energy was already high. The pop-up restaurant within One&Only Aesthesis has black-woven floor lamps instead of vibe-killing overhead lighting, fabric-paneled walls, and tables divided by ZZ plants nestling each group in their own private jungle. We lingered at the black-marble show kitchen, where a chef was laser-focused on plating shrimp-and-tomato salads. Once we took our seats, a steady stream of tapas was headed to the table: sous-vide chicken croquettes topped with a thin veil of raw tuna and caviar, kranios sashimi with a punchy mandarin orange sauce, calamari bocadillos with a light lemon cream.

"This was a place to have fun," said Yann Gillett, the general manager of the One&Only Aesthesis, when we talked later about the area's Loren-Onassis heyday.

In the '60s, before this was Greece's first One&Only, it was a resort called Asteria Beach Club. While the One&Only's 51-acre footprint is far more luxurious than its predecessor's, the goal is to show guests a good time, just a 30-minute drive from the center of Athens.

Here, my take on the It List 2024 –winning One&Only Aesthesis and how it's helping the Athens Riviera become a destination that rivals Greece's Cycladic islands.

Courtesy of One&Only

We stayed in a two-bedroom residence with direct beach access and a private, sun lounger–flanked pool. The 1,378 square feet of indoor space afforded us a living room with floor-to-ceiling windows gazing out toward the beach (and the sunset) and a full kitchen. Better still, each residence has a 24/7 host to help you plan your itinerary, make dinner reservations, or, in my case, satisfy a craving for pasta at midnight. The residences, of which there are 18, have either two or three bedrooms.

There are also 95 bungalows on the property, with gorgeous stone walls, marble and natural wood interiors, and art curated by Greek artist Anna Chatzinassiou. The bungalows have been built "on the footprints of the old bungalows," said Gillett, referring to the accommodations that lined this waterfront at Asteria Beach Club. These swish, standalone cottages have an outdoor patio with a plunge pool (plus swings or daybeds with white-and-blue pillows). My favorite was the select few with private docks and small steel ladders descending to the Saronic Gulf, making the rooms feel like overwater bungalows.

There are entry-level rooms in the main building (which also houses the lobby, Alelia bar, and Ora restaurant) overlooking the communal pools and beach. Finally, the top-tier stays are the villas; the $35,000-a-night Villa One has a private rooftop, a massive pool, and 9,600 square feet of outdoor space. All room types come with complimentary breakfast and access to a host, available via WhatsApp 24/7.

El Bar by Paco Morales is a pop-up restaurant that will become a new concept later this year. While there are not yet details on the next pop-up, the hotel's main dining venue, Ora, is just as enticing as El Bar. The tarama (a creamy dip with fish roe, very Greek) was some of the best I've had, served with piping-hot freshly baked pita. The Italian-Greek restaurant has alfresco dining — umbrella-shaded tables with suede mustard-yellow chairs overlook the pool — and a stunning indoor operation with leather banquettes, terrazzo floors, and mirror-tiled walls. Talia and I enjoyed a three-hour lunch one afternoon at Ora, where I fell hard for the sea urchin and bottarga pasta, slathered in Greek olive oil and fresh herbs and the fresh oysters from northern Greece finished with sweet vinegar.

There are also three bars on-site: Alelia, just off Ora restaurant, perfect for a pre-dinner Negroni; the poolside Minima bar; and my favorite, Thimsi, an ideal sunset perch right next to the beach.

Maya Kachroo-Levine/Travel + Leisure

The beating heart of the resort is the pool area, which is landscaped with olive trees and faces the beach. All three 53-foot-long pools are next to the main building and Ora restaurant, lined by light-wood cabanas or blue-and-white-striped sun loungers. The resort has a gym, tennis courts, and forested trails for guests to run and cycle on (bikes are available on request).

To connect guests to Athens, One&Only offers an abundance of city tours, including private tours of the Acropolis, a Greek sandal–making workshop in Athens, and visits to the Benaki Museum network 's seven sites. Guests can also work with the concierge to charter a boat for a day sailing the Saronic Gulf.

I spent more time in the spa than anyone who traveled 6,800 miles to Greece should. In my defense, it's the first Guerlain Spa in Greece, and I was keen to try Guerlain skin care products, which are known for using black-bee honey harvested from the French island of Ouessant. I had a sumptuous 60-minute facial with liberally applied Abeille Royale products. I returned two days later for a manicure because Gillett told me it was the best I would ever have. Sure enough, the Bastien Gonzalez nail treatment — available at most One&Only properties and myriad luxury hotels outside the U.S. — offered no nail polish but a complete reboot for my hands. The managers are licensed podiatrists, including the professional who massaged my hands and meticulously buffed my nails with a pearly cream that left an attractive, lasting sheen.

Family-friendly Offerings

Talia and I worked with our hosts to tour two Athens museums; one was the main building of the Benaki Museum, with prehistoric, Byzantine, and neo-Hellenic art exhibitions, among others. The other was the Benaki Toy Museum. Tracing toy collections through the centuries isn't a regular pastime for me, but I was charmed by how fun it was to introduce a child to one of Greece's most important attractions: its history. The hotel has a KidsOnly club for children ages four to 11, but their child-friendly tours are well-thought-out and worth arranging with the concierge.

Accessibility and Sustainability

Per Greek laws, five percent of the hotel's 115 accommodations are outfitted for guests with mobility impairments. The hotel has six accessible rooms — four rooms in the main building and two bungalows. Most of the common spaces are also designed to be fully wheelchair accessible. On the sustainability front, One&Only Aesthesis has both LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and SITES certifications. When the property was built, any removed trees were replanted, and 200,000 plant species native to the Mediterranean are now growing on the property. They were specifically chosen for their low-water requirements.

One&Only is set directly on Asteras Beach. If you head north along the Riviera, you'll hit Glyfada Beach, followed by the in-the-works Ellinikon Experience Park. As T+L previously reported , Ellinikon is an $8-billion green space "on the former site of the city’s international airport" with "trails, fitness classes, fountains, a Zen garden, and bountiful native plants and flowers." From there, you can head east to Athens (a 40-minute drive to the city center) or west to Piraeus, a port city with a central cruise terminal. South of One&Only, the Riviera continues, winding down to my favorite Riviera attraction: Lake Vouliagmeni. The mineral-rich, crystal-clear green water is warm and filled with tadpoles that delicately nibble at your feet — nature's exfoliant. Post up on the umbrella-lined beach or continue to nearby Astir Beach, home to the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens and a waterfront Matsuhisa .

There is currently no way to earn One&Only loyalty points that are redeemable for a stay — though guests can use stays to earn Emirates miles . One&Only has an exclusive offers page where you can browse deals for all O&O properties. Limited-time offers for One&Only Aesthesis include third-night-free packages, 30 percent off at the Guerlain Spa, or complimentary drinks at Alelia bar, all contingent on the type of room you book and when. Finally, summer is the high season on the Athens Riviera, but rates drop significantly in the winter (while the temperature remains moderate in the 50s and 60s).

COMMENTS

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6 Aegina, The Closest Island To Athens, Is A Cool Travel Destination. The Saronic Islands located in the Aegean's Saronic Gulf are just off mainland Greece. Aegina is one of the most amazing islands in this island group, just 17 miles from Athens. In fact, many companies offer day trips from Piraeus, one of the major transport hubs in Greece.
LESSER KNOWN GREEK ISLANDS
Lesser-known Greek Island alternatives . Instead of Santorini go to Milos or Folegandros. Milos easily rivals Santorini for extraordinary volcanic landscapes and geology yet the beaches are much better. Folegandros has a charming Chora that is like a small version of Oia, without the crowds, the cruise ships or the price tags.
12 Best Greek Islands To Visit (2024 COMPARISON)
Best greek islands for couples: Santorini, Crete, Milos and Skiathos. Best greek islands for honeymoon: Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Paros and Skiathos. Best greek islands close to Athens (Saronic gulf): Hydra, Egina, Agkistri, Poros. The Mamma Mia island is Skiathos. This is where the movie (part 1) was set.
Why You Should Visit This Greek Island Instead Of Santorini This Summer
This year, Santorini was overtaken by another Island in Greece, rolling in at number 3: Paros. A Greek Island in the Aegean, Paros is known for its sandy beaches, charming villages, culture, and as the hub to the beautiful Cyclades Region of Greece. For tourists looking to venture to popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, Paros is often ...
The 11 Most Incredible Greek Islands to Visit From Santorini
The 11 Most Incredible Greek Islands to Visit From Santorini. February 7, 2023 Reece Toth. Santorini is unquestionably one of the most bucket-list isles in the Aegean. It magnetizes travelers of all sorts - honeymooners, photographers, hikers, foodies - with the promise of one of the most startling terrains on the planet.
Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All
Best places for first timers to visit in Crete Without question, the island's top tourist attraction is the Minoan city of Knossos. You can visit the archeological site of Knossos Palace in ...
The Best Greek Islands
Instead, visit islands in the same island group: the Cyclades (the most popular), the Sporades, the Dodecanese, the Ionian, the Saronic, and the Northeastern Aegean. For one, they're close to each other. And two, they have frequent ferry connections with other islands within the same group. ... Samos to Santorini and Other Greek Islands. Hi Dave,
Why the Greek island I'd always avoided is now one of my favorites
There are endless Greek islands to explore and my strategy has been to try a new island each time I visit. I've enjoyed the likes of Mykonos, Crete, Paros, Corfu, Kos and more. But the most famous island in Greece had stayed firmly off my to-do list. At least, until now. Sure, Santorini might be well-known for its spectacular sunsets, dreamy ...
Inside the tiny Greek neighbourhood hidden on the mainland ...
The houses in the area have been likened to Santorini by visitors Credit: Alamy. In recent years, the tiny neighbourhood of Anafiotika in Athens has been compared to the Greek islands by visitors ...
How Santorini Was Resettled After the Minoan Eruption
Ruins of the archaeological site of Ancient Thera. Credit: Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-3.. The island of Santorini, also known as Thera, is famous for being inhabited by the Minoans in the Bronze Age.It then erupted in a catastrophic volcanic event which completely wiped out the civilisation there. Yet, today, there are thousands of people living on the island.
How to do Santorini without the crowds
Things to do in Santorini. Do walk the iconic route from Fira to Oia along the caldera, or at least a section of it (the full walk is over two hours). Watch the sunset at Akrotiri Lighthouse on the southernmost tip, from which you get a view over the island on one side and the open sea to the other. Don't fall for the overpriced, mediocre ...
5 New Hotels To Experience In Greece This Summer
Santo Collection. Santo Mine Oia Suites Set to open April 20 th in the village of Oia in Santorini's northwest, this 37 suite resort was carved into the famous island cliffs above Ammoudi Bay ...
Outrageous reason cruise is skipping Greek island of Santorini
Crowds gather for the sunset on Santorini. Photo / Getty Images. A cruise line told guests of a last minute change of plans this week, telling passengers its visit to the Greek island of Santorini ...
There's a Santorini in China, a picture-perfect replica of the Greek
There's a Santorini in China, a picture-perfect replica of the Greek island!, China's Yunnan province hosts Santorini Dali resort, replicating Greece's Santorini at a cost of over 8 billion yuan.
This Luxury Waterfront Resort in the Hamptons of Greece Was ...
One&Only just opened its first resort in Greece on the Athens Riviera. T+L hotel expert Maya Kachroo-Levine reports on what makes One&Only Aesthesis one of the best new properties in the world.

10 Magical Greek Islands You Should Visit Instead of Santorini

Don’t get us wrong, we love Santorini . The island is truly unique and mesmerizing. But there is something magical about getting off the beaten track and discovering a new location without the crowds of tourists. Discover 10 underrated islands you should visit on your next vacation.

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21 Santorini Alternatives: Quiet Greek Islands

21 Best Non-Touristy & Quiet Greek Islands

2 - Donaousa

3 - Iraklia

6 - Folegandros

7 - Samothraki

8 - Kythira

10 - Ithaca

11 - Karaphthos

13 - Schrnoussa

14 - Kefalonia

15 - Amorgos

16 - Skiathos

18 - Kimilos

19 - Lemnos

Final Thoughts: Best Non-Touristy Greek Islands

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7 Amazing Alternatives To Santorini

From the lesser-known islands of Tinos, Paros and Andros, to the ever-popular Mykonos and Rhodes, these Greek islands are perfect alternatives to Santorini.

7 Best Alternatives To Santorini: Greek Islands

Chloe Gunning

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4 Greek Islands That Are Excellent Alternatives To Santorini

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5 Alternatives to Santorini

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