Did you know that there are over 6,000 islands in Greece? Only 227 of them are inhabited – and each one has its own distinct character, landscape and charm.
We have been fortunate to visit many of these Greek islands over the years, from the iconic whitewashed villages of Santorini to remote, crowd-free hideaways that most travellers never discover. The difference between reading about Greece and actually standing on a sun-baked clifftop overlooking the Aegean is impossible to overstate.
Dotted around the Aegean and Ionian Seas, the Greek islands fall into several distinct groups: the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Ionian Islands, the Argo-Saronic, the Sporades, and the North Aegean islands. Crete, Evia and Gavdos stand apart from these groupings.
Whether you plan to stay on one island or go island hopping in Greece, this expert-ranked guide covers the 34 most beautiful Greek islands for your bucket list.
Best Greek Islands By Type
Not sure which Greek island is right for you? Here is a quick guide based on what matters most to your trip.
Best Greek island for couples and honeymoons: Santorini – Oia’s sunsets and cave hotels make it the ultimate romantic destination. Patmos and Hydra are beautiful quieter alternatives.
Best Greek islands for beaches: Milos has arguably the most dramatic beach scenery in Greece. Lefkada’s Porto Katsiki is consistently rated one of Europe’s finest beaches. Zante’s Navagio Beach is iconic.
Best Greek islands for nightlife: Mykonos remains the undisputed party capital. Rhodes offers a lively nightlife scene within its medieval city.
Best Greek islands for families: Corfu offers calm waters, a wide range of accommodation and easy access. Kos is flat, family-friendly and excellent for cycling. Naxos has superb beaches and a relaxed pace.
Best Greek islands for nature lovers: Alonissos is part of the largest marine protected area in Europe. Kefalonia has spectacular cave systems and gorge hikes.
Best Greek island for first-time visitors: Santorini or Mykonos for the classic experience. Corfu for a gentler introduction with great beaches and an accessible Old Town.
Best hidden gem Greek islands: Folegandros, Koufonisia, Astypalea and Paxos are all beautiful, crowd-free alternatives to the mainstream choices.
Greek Island Groups at a Glance
Greece’s islands are divided into distinct groups, each with its own personality.
Cyclades: Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Paros, Naxos, Folegandros, Sifnos, Syros, Serifos, Kimolos, Koufonisia, Antiparos, Astypalea, Tinos. Classic whitewashed villages and blue-domed churches.
Dodecanese: Rhodes, Kos, Symi, Karpathos, Patmos, Astypalea. A blend of Greek, Venetian, Ottoman and Byzantine heritage, close to the Turkish coast.
Ionian Islands: Corfu, Zante (Zakynthos), Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxos. Lush, green islands with a strong Venetian influence on the western coast of Greece.
Sporades: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos. Pine-forested, sailing-friendly islands in the North Aegean.
North Aegean: Thassos, Lesbos, Chios, Ikaria. Larger, less-visited islands with distinct local cultures and landscapes.
Argo-Saronic: Hydra, Aegina, Spetses. Elegant, car-free islands within easy reach of Athens.
34. Lesbos (Lesvos)
The third largest Greek island and one of the most culturally rich, Lesbos is a world away from the typical Cycladic tourist trail. This North Aegean island is a UNESCO Global Geopark, home to the extraordinary Sigri Petrified Forest – some of the fossilised tree trunks are 20 million years old.
Lesbos is the birthplace of the ancient poet Sappho and produces some of Greece’s finest ouzo and extra-virgin olive oil. The medieval castle village of Molyvos, perched above a picturesque harbour, is one of the most photogenic spots in the Aegean.
We rate Lesbos highly for travellers who want depth over glamour – thermal springs at Eftalou, pink flamingos at the Kalloni salt marshes, and long sandy beaches at Vatera that stretch for nearly eight kilometres without a crowd in sight.
33. Ikaria
Named after the mythological Icarus, Ikaria is one of the world’s five Blue Zones – places where people live significantly longer than average. The island’s relaxed pace, strong community ties and healthy diet have made it the subject of international wellness research.
Ikaria’s landscape is wild and mountainous, with dense forests, rushing waterfalls and remote beaches that require a spirit of adventure to reach. Nas Beach, where a small river meets the sea amid dramatic rock formations, feels like a secret that most travellers never find. Seychelles Beach is another hidden gem, surrounded by imposing rock formations.
The local Ikarian wine is famously strong and produced by small family vineyards. The island’s panegyria (traditional festivals) continue late into the night and are considered some of the most joyful communal celebrations in the whole of Greece.
32. Paxos
Tiny Paxos – just 25 square kilometres – punches far above its weight as one of the most beautiful Ionian islands. With no airport and reached only by ferry from Corfu or Parga on the mainland, it has a naturally select clientele and an unhurried atmosphere.
The waters around Paxos and its even smaller neighbour Antipaxos are among the clearest in Greece. Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos, with its vivid Caribbean blue water over white pebbles, is frequently listed among the best beaches in Europe. We consider it genuinely world-class.
Paxos has long been a favourite of the sailing crowd and attracts artists and writers who return year after year. The three harbours of Gaios, Loggos and Lakka each have their own character – Lakka is particularly charming, set in a sheltered bay lined with olive groves.
31. Chios
Chios is one of Greece’s most underrated islands – a place where you can explore medieval mastic villages (Mastichochoria) that look almost unchanged from the Middle Ages. Pyrgi is the most famous, its geometric black-and-white carved facades unlike anything else in Greece.
Chios produces 70% of the world’s mastic – the resin harvested from mastic trees that has been prized since antiquity as a food, medicine and flavouring. The island’s medieval walled town, Kastro, and the Nea Moni monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are essential stops.
Beaches such as Mavra Volia, with its striking dark red and black volcanic pebbles, and Emporios Bay are dramatic and rarely crowded. Chios is best reached by ferry from Piraeus or by short flight from Athens.
30. Patmos
Known as the “Jerusalem of the Aegean,” Patmos is one of the holiest islands in the Orthodox Christian world. The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, perched dramatically above the island’s capital Chora, and the Cave of the Apocalypse – where Saint John is said to have written the Book of Revelation – together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beyond its extraordinary spiritual heritage, Patmos is a genuinely beautiful island. Skala, the main port, has a relaxed, elegant atmosphere with fine fish restaurants and charming waterfront cafes. Grikos Bay is a favourite among sailing yachts for its calm, clear water.
Patmos has no mass tourism and the island actively works to keep it that way. We found it to be one of the most peaceful and spiritually resonant places in Greece – the kind of island that stays with you long after you leave. Patmos is best reached by ferry from Piraeus or by small plane via Kos.
29. Antiparos
A small Cycladic paradise just a short ferry ride from Paros, Antiparos offers an authentic Greek island experience away from the crowds. This charming island is known for its pristine beaches such as Soros, Glyfa, and Faneromeni, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sand.
The island’s main attraction is the spectacular Antiparos Cave, one of the oldest stalagmite formations in Europe, dating back 45 million years. The cave descends 85 meters underground and features impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Antiparos has become a favored destination for celebrities and artists seeking tranquility, including Tom Hanks who owns property here. The main town, Chora, features traditional Cycladic architecture with white-washed houses and narrow cobblestone streets. We preferred Antiparos to Paros which some say is becoming a “mini Mykonos” in terms of prices!
28. Koufonisia
Koufonisia is a tiny island complex in the Small Cyclades that boasts some of the most exotic beaches in the Aegean Sea. The main inhabited island, Pano Koufonisi, is only 5.5 square kilometers but packs incredible beauty into its small size.
Pori Beach is the crown jewel, featuring impossibly turquoise waters and fine golden sand that rivals any tropical paradise. Other stunning beaches include Fanos, Platia Pounta, and Italida.
The island maintains an authentic, unspoiled atmosphere with traditional fishing boats, local tavernas serving fresh seafood, and friendly locals. It was our favourite stop on our Paros Explorer yacht trip.
27. Alonissos
The most remote and pristine of the Sporades islands, Alonissos is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking authentic Greek island life. The island is part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos, the largest marine protected area in Europe, making it a sanctuary for Mediterranean monk seals, dolphins, and diverse marine life.
The old village of Alonissos, perched high on a hilltop, was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1965. Its stone houses and narrow alleys offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The port town of Patitiri serves as the island’s main hub with traditional tavernas and local shops.
Alonissos features numerous secluded beaches including Kokkinokastro with its red cliffs, Chrisi Milia with golden sand, and Leftos Gialos accessible only by boat. The island’s extensive network of hiking trails leads through pine forests, olive groves, and to hidden coves.
26. Folegandros
This dramatic Cycladic island offers some of the most spectacular cliff-top scenery and sunsets in Greece. Folegandros remains authentically Greek, with traditional architecture and a slow pace of life.
The island’s capital, Chora, is built on the edge of a 200-meter cliff and ranks among the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades. Its medieval character is preserved through narrow marble-paved streets, traditional houses with wooden balconies, and the iconic Church of Panagia perched dramatically on the clifftop.
Folegandros boasts incredible beaches despite its rocky terrain. Katergo Beach, accessible by boat or a challenging hike, features dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Agkali and Livadi offer easier access with tavernas and swimming facilities.
25. Hydra
Car-free and timelessly elegant, Hydra is an island where donkeys and water taxis provide the only transportation. This Saronic Gulf island has long attracted artists, writers, and celebrities with its sophisticated atmosphere and stunning neoclassical architecture.
The island’s horseshoe-shaped harbor is one of the most photographed spots in Greece, lined with 18th and 19th-century mansions built by wealthy ship owners. The town rises amphitheatrically from the harbor, creating a dramatic and picturesque setting.
Hydra’s artistic heritage is evident in its numerous galleries and museums. The island offers excellent hiking trails leading to monasteries and secluded beaches like Vlychos and Bisti.
24. Sifnos
Known as the culinary capital of the Cyclades, Sifnos combines exceptional gastronomy with traditional Cycladic beauty. The island has produced many renowned Greek chefs and maintains strong culinary traditions dating back centuries.
The pottery tradition of Sifnos is equally famous, with local artisans creating beautiful ceramics using techniques passed down through generations. The village of Artemonas showcases magnificent neoclassical mansions, while Kastro, the medieval capital, offers stunning sunset views from its clifftop location.
Sifnos features excellent beaches including Platis Gialos with its long sandy stretch and beach bars, Vathi with its protected bay perfect for families, and Tsigrado accessible via a scenic hiking trail. The island’s network of ancient footpaths provides some of the best hiking in the Cyclades, passing through olive groves, stone walls, and historic churches.
23. Astypalea
Nicknamed the “butterfly of the Aegean” due to its distinctive shape, Astypalea uniquely blends Cycladic and Dodecanese architecture and culture. This westernmost Dodecanese island offers a perfect combination of dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, and authentic Greek atmosphere.
The island’s Chora is crowned by a 13th-century Venetian castle and cascades down the hillside with traditional white-washed houses. The medieval fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and creates a magical silhouette against the sunset.
Astypalea boasts numerous excellent beaches, from the organized beach of Maltezana to the secluded coves of Kaminakia and Agios Konstantinos. The island’s unique geology creates diverse landscapes, from lunar-like terrains to lush valleys. With limited tourism infrastructure, Astypalea maintains an authentic character while offering comfortable accommodations and excellent local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional recipes.
22. Naxos
Naxos, the stunning island located in the heart of the Cyclades, offers a distinct charm that cannot be found anywhere else in Greece. With its white-washed alleys, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters, visitors are able to experience true Grecian beauty.
The seafood is always fresh and cooked to perfection. And while the beaches may be what draw tourists to Naxos, the island’s capital, Hora, is where they find themselves engulfed in its rich history.
We recommend walking to the Temple of Apollo at sunset, it’s an unforgettable sight! Close by, you’ll find the Naxos Apothecary, a cool shop brimming with organic products.
21. Evia
Also known as Eubopea, Evia is the second largest island in Greece. Evia island is easily reached by road or by ferry. Hikers will enjoy a walk to Dimosari Gorge or Drimona Waterfall.
Evia produces some high quality white wine, particularly on Lilantio Plain near Halkida. Avantis Estate is an award-winning winery in the village of Mytikas.
Thermae Sylla Spa and Wellness Hotel is a five star hotel that has welcomed celebrities, royalty and politicians such as Winston Churchill since opening in 1896.
Guests are drawn to the hot thermal pool and hydrotherapy treatments. This is considered to be one of the best thermal spas in the world.
There are 80 hot springs in the town of Loutra Edipsou, which has attracted visitors since ancient times. The water is rich in calcium, iron and magnesium.
20. Corfu
Famous for the number of churches on the island – 37 in total, Corfu is one of the greenest islands in Greece. Sometimes nicknamed the Emerald Island, Corfu is where the first Greek university was founded.
The northernmost Ionian island, Corfu is known for its Blue Flag beaches. These include the stunning Canal d’Amour, Sidari and 8 other beaches. We’ve visited Corfu multiple times – here are some other beautiful Corfu beaches to discover.
The Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which has a 15th century fortress and attractive Venetian architecture. Some of the best places to stay in Corfu for peace and quiet include Kassiopi, Paleokastritsa, Gouvia and Agios Georgios. Angsana Corfu, overlooking Benitses Bay, has a beautiful infinity pool and spa.
19. Tinos
Located in the Cyclades islands, Tinos boasts charming tavernas, sandy beaches and marble villages. Tinos is one of the rare places in Greece where the villages have alleyways made from marble.
The village of Pyrgos is the center of marble art in Tinos. It’s worth visiting the Marble Art Museum here if you have time.
This is also the most important Orthodox centre of worship in Greece. Pilgrims visit the Church of Panagia Megalochari on March 25 and August 15.
18. Kos
One of the Dodecanese islands, Kos has many ancient Greek and Roman landmarks, including the Ancient Agora and Casa Romana villa mosaics. Hippocrates, the founder of modern medicine taught under the Hippocrates Plane Tree, which you can still visit today.
Kos is also known for its lush vegetation and beaches overlooking the Aegean Sea. Popular with cyclists, there are 19 cycle routes with 8 for mountain bikes.
The capital is Kos Town, a charming place with some interesting sights such as Neratzia Castle. Built in the 14th century by the Knights of St-John of Jerusalem, the castle has panoramic views of Kos harbor.
17. Paros
Nestled in the Cyclades archipelago, Paros is easy to reach from Athens by ferry or plane. Sail into Paros by yacht for a truly luxurious experience! The nightlife in Paros is vibrant and there are some very pretty villages such as Lefkes, Marpissa and Naoussa.
Paros is a popular destination for wealthy Athenians, and has a stealth wealth, unshowy vibe compared to islands such as Mykonos. It is also known for its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) wine. There’s red, white and Malvasia, a dessert wine.
For beaches in Paros, there’s plenty of choice. Kolymbithres Beach has some impressive granite rock formations, while Molos is a hidden gem with some good beachside tavernas.
16. Kefalonia
If Kefalonia looks familiar, that’s because it features prominently in the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. The largest Ionian island, Kefalonia is characterized by colorful houses and Greek fir trees.
These trees only grow on the island of Kefalonia. When you’re not sunning yourself on the beaches such as Antisamos, Platis Gialos and Myrtos, there’s plenty to do.
One of the best Greek islands for nature lovers, Kefalonia has some spectacular walks. Go hiking along The Cypress Trail or explore spectacular Melissani Lake Cave. Known for its turquoise water, the cave can be visited by boat.
15. Skiathos
One of the Sporades islands in the North West Aegean Sea, Skiathos has a fun nightlife scene. There are many open air tavernas and clubs.
Skiathos is also a popular Greek sailing destination. There are many catamarans and yachts available for charter from Skiathos Old Harbour Port.
With over 60 beaches on Skiathos island, you could visit a new one every day of your stay. Divers will appreciate the visibility of 30 meters or more and crystal clear sea.
14. Karpathos
Also known as Carpathos, this is the second largest island in the Dodecanese. Untouched by mass tourism, Karpathos is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a quiet Greek island.
In the capital, Pigadia, you’ll see the ruins of the Acropolis of Ancient Potideon. This ancient city was founded in the 14th century BC by the Mycenaean people.
There are several picturesque villages including Olympos, where an ancient dialect is still spoken, and Volada, with its bougainvillea decorated houses. Mesochori is another charming village overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Head to sandy Apella or Kyra Panagia Beach for some rest and relaxation. From Diafani Beach you can take a boat to explore the islet of Saria.
13. Milos
This volcanic Greek island is part of the Cyclades. The iconic Venus de Milo statue that is now displayed in the Louvre, Paris was discovered here.
Milos has some incredible rock formations, nicknamed the Sea Meteora. That’s because they’re as spectacular as those renowned Central Greek landmarks.
Kleftiko Beach is one of the best places on Milos to admire this lunar landscape. This hidden gem can only be reached by boat.
12. Symi
One of the most charming islands in the Dodecanese, Symi is less well known than its neighbors Kos and Rhodes. There are many colorful Neoclassical style houses lining Gialos harbour.
Symi is an easy day trip from Rhodes, with boat trips only taking 1 hour. This small island is a good place from which to bring back souvenirs such as natural sponges or handmade leather items.
If you have time, visit Panormitis Monastery. Rebuilt in 1783, this Greek Orthodox monastery has a fabulous setting on the Southern coast in the village of Panormitis. Alternatively, head to Marathounda beach where goats roam free!
11. Thassos
This North Aegean island is extremely unspoiled and well worth a visit. Thassos is nicknamed the Green Island, due to the abundance of olive trees, pines and cypresses.
Thassos has previously been colonised by the Phoenicians, Persians, the Macedonian Empire and the Ottomans. There are quite a few vestiges of this past in Limenas, the capital of Thassos.
The Acropolis of Thasos is an important Greek landmark and the Archaeological Museum of Thassos is also interesting. Of course, there are many great beaches on Thassos too, including Psili Ammos, Paradise Beach and La Scala.
10. Syros
Also spelt as Siros or Syra, this Cyclades island is a great alternative to Santorini. There are many beautiful white-stucco buildings and cobbled alleyways.
Ermoupoli is the capital of Syros and has some impressive landmarks such as the Apollon Theater. Galissas is one of the best beaches on Syros. This is one of 6 Blue Flag beaches on Syros.
9. Lefkada
This Ionian Sea island is blessed with stunning beaches such as Porto Katsiki, Agiofylli, Pefkoulia and Eggremoi. Ai Iannis is a popular beach with surfers.
Lefkada, which is also known as Lefkas, has some fantastic restaurants and local produce. Try ladopita, a traditional Lefkada dessert made with olive oil and almonds.
Lefkas wines are another must try. There are two grape varieties that are only grown on the island: Vardea and Vertzami.
8. Serifos
This quiet Greek island in the Western Cyclades is a hidden gem. The picturesque windmills of Serifos may remind you of Mykonos but the atmosphere is a lot more sedate!
Divers will enjoy exploring the shipwreck lying on the seabed at Kalogeros Beach. In all, there are 72 beaches on Serifos.
The island used to be an important mining hub and you can see remnants of the old mines in Megalo Horio, Koutalas and Μegalo Livadi.
7. Rhodes
The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is a great destination for archaeology lovers. There are many important landmarks on Rhodes, including the Acropolis of Lindos and the ancient city of Kamiros.
The medieval city of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander around the Street of Knights in the Upper Town and stop for a drink at a Rhodes taverna. We highly recommend lunch at family-run Hamam Cafe which has a lovely terrace.
The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is an unusual example of Greek Gothic architecture.
There are many sandy beaches in Rhodes, with Tsambika Beach being one of the best. Anthony Quinn Bay was originally called Vagies, but renamed after the movie The Guns of Navarone was filmed here.
6. Kimolos
This picturesque island in the Cyclades is a great place to get off the beaten path in Greece. You can reach Kimolos by taking the ferry from Piraeus port in Athens or from the neighboring island of Milos.
Like Milos, Kimolos has several volcanic rock formations. One of the most unusual sights on Kimolos is Skiadi.
This geological formation was formed by erosion and looks a bit like a mushroom. Another fun thing to do on Kimolos is to explore the sea caves near Prassa Beach.
5. Skopelos
If you’re a fan of the movie Mamma Mia!, you’ll recognize Skopelos island where it was filmed. Agios Ioannis chapel is where Donna and Sam get married, while Glysteri beach and Agnontas village also feature.
Skopelos is part of the Northern Sporades island group. You can reach it by ferry from Agios Konstantinos or Volos.
The main town of Chora, also known as Skopelos Town, has some charming houses with white-washed facades. There are also 360 churches and chapels.
4. Mykonos
One of the most popular Greek islands for nightlife, Mykonos also has some incredible beaches. Head to Elia to spot a few celebrities or to Super Paradise Beach Club for the party atmosphere.
In high season, Mykonos can be extremely busy. The best way to see this island is to avoid the Summer months and to visit in September or October.
The famous windmills of Mykonos can be found on a hill near the picturesque Little Venice area. They’re no longer used to grind flour and some are now private homes.
There are some great restaurants on Mykonos. It’s worth trying Myconian specialties such as louza, made from pork loin and seasoned with spices.
3. Crete
The largest island in Greece, Crete boasts 600 miles of coastline. There are several picturesque towns such as Chania and Rethymno.
Crete has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Soak up the sun on Balos Beach, with its crystal clear water. Crete is also a great destination for hikers.
Samaria Gorge is the longest trekking gorge in Europe, at 11 miles. In this famous Greek National Park you can spot animals like the Cretan goat.
There are also some fascinating historical sites and ancient ruins on Crete. Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island.
2. Zante
Also known as Zakynthos, the island of Zante is one of the most popular destinations in the Ionian Sea. Navagio beach is reached by boat, and is famous for the shipwreck which ran aground in 1980.
The Blue Caves are another fascinating Zante attraction. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour from Agios Nikolaos, Porto Vromi or Zakynthos Town.
Go snorkeling in the National Marine Park of Zakynthos to spot the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. Alternatively, chill out on Alkyes or Gerakas Beach.
1. Santorini
No list of the most beautiful Greek islands would be complete without Santorini. This famous Cyclades destination is known for its whitewashed houses and blue domed churches.
What most people don’t realize is that Santorini is actually a collection of islands. These include Aspronissi, Palea, Thira, Nea Kameni and Thirassia islets. Thira is the island that most people know as Santorini, with the beautiful villages of Oia and Fira.
Thira is a volcanic island and although it is classed as active, it’s currently dormant. You can take a volcanic hiking tour to see Santorini caldera up close.
We’ve visited the island multiple times and there are many great places to stay on Santorini, particularly NOUS Santorini and Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas. You’ll also find some fantastic cave hotels such as Alisaris Cave Suites, built into the rocks. The beaches in Santorini are mainly black, as they are composed of volcanic sand and pebbles.
How to Get to the Greek Islands
Most international travellers fly into Athens International Airport (ATH), the main hub for connections to the islands. Many of the larger islands – Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Rhodes, Crete, Kos, Kefalonia – have their own airports with direct seasonal flights from major European cities.
Ferry travel is an excellent way to explore Greece, particularly for island hopping. The port of Piraeus in Athens connects to the Cyclades, Dodecanese and Cretan islands. For the Ionian islands, Patras is the main mainland ferry hub. We recommend booking ferries in advance in peak summer season.
For the ultimate way to see the Greek islands, consider a skippered luxury yacht charter – this allows you to reach coves and beaches that no ferry or day boat can access.
Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands
The Greek islands are at their most beautiful in May, June and September to early October. The sea is warm, the light is extraordinary and the crowds are far more manageable than in July and August.
July and August are peak season – popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini are extremely busy and prices are at their highest. If you visit at this time, book accommodation and restaurants well in advance and expect queues at the main attractions.
Off-season (November to March) sees most tourist businesses on smaller islands closed entirely. Crete, Rhodes and Corfu remain partly open year-round and are worthwhile in winter for history and culture rather than beach trips.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Greek Islands
What is the most beautiful Greek island?
Santorini is consistently ranked as the most beautiful Greek island, thanks to its dramatic caldera, whitewashed architecture and world-famous sunsets. However, for raw natural beauty, Milos and Lefkada give Santorini serious competition.
Which Greek island is best for first-time visitors?
Santorini or Mykonos for the iconic Cycladic experience. Corfu for a gentler introduction with excellent beaches, a UNESCO Old Town and easy access from northern Europe. We often recommend Paros to first-timers who want authenticity alongside beauty.
Which is the best Greek island for a honeymoon?
Santorini is the classic choice, with cave hotels, caldera sunsets and exceptional restaurants. Patmos and Paxos are beautiful romantic alternatives with more privacy and fewer crowds.
How many Greek islands are there?
There are over 6,000 islands in Greece, of which 227 are inhabited. The largest is Crete, followed by Evia, Lesbos, Rhodes and Chios.
What is the most beautiful beach in Greece?
This is hotly debated, but Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos (near Paxos), Porto Katsiki on Lefkada, Balos in Crete and Sarakiniko on Milos are consistently among the highest-ranked beaches in Europe.
Can you island hop in Greece?
Yes – Greece is one of the best destinations in the world for island hopping. Ferry connections between the islands are extensive, particularly in the Cyclades. We recommend combining 2-3 islands per trip for a well-paced experience.
What is the best Greek island for nature lovers?
Alonissos, as part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos, is exceptional for marine wildlife. Kefalonia has spectacular cave systems and gorge hikes. Ikaria and Lesbos both offer wild, unspoiled landscapes that reward adventurous travellers.
Greece rewards those who explore beyond the obvious. We have found some of our most memorable travel moments on quiet island beaches at dawn, in village tavernas where the menu is whatever was caught that morning, and on clifftop paths with nothing but the Aegean stretching to the horizon.
For more luxury travel inspiration, explore our guides to the most beautiful villages in the world, the best luxury honeymoon destinations and the world’s best bucket list experiences.
Like these beautiful islands in Greece? Pin for later or share with friends.
You might also enjoy:
Looking for more travel hacks and tips? From hidden gems to unique experiences, we’ve got you covered.
Trending Products
OLEVS Automatic Watches for Men Bus...
Ferragamo Legacy Chronograph Watch
GUESS Stainless Steel Gold-Tone Cry...
Bulova Men’s Classic Sutton 4...
SEIKO Automatic Watch for Men ̵...
Stuhrling Original Mens Skeleton Au...
Bulova Men’s Marine Star Seri...
Stuhrling Original Mens Dress Watch...
Stuhrling Original Men’s Dive...
