29 Most Lovely Greek Islands

Do you know that there are over 6,000 islands in Greece? Nonetheless, solely 227 of them are inhabited.

Dotted across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, there are some beautiful Greek islets and islands. Whether or not you select to remain in a single place or to go island hopping in Greece, you’ll be spoilt for selection.

There are a number of Greek island teams, together with the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Ionian Islands, the Argo-Saronic , the Sporades and the North Aegean islands. A couple of Greek islands corresponding to Crete, Evia and Gavdos don’t fall into any of those teams.

Listed here are essentially the most lovely Greek islands in your bucket record.

29. Antiparos

A small Cycladic paradise only a quick ferry journey from Paros, Antiparos presents an genuine Greek island expertise away from the crowds. This charming island is thought for its pristine seashores corresponding to Soros, Glyfa, and Faneromeni, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and tender golden sand.

The island’s most important attraction is the spectacular Antiparos Cave, one of many oldest stalagmite formations in Europe, courting again 45 million years. The cave descends 85 meters underground and options spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Antiparos has change into a popular vacation spot for celebrities and artists looking for tranquility, together with Tom Hanks who owns property right here. The principle city, Chora, options conventional Cycladic structure with white-washed homes and slim cobblestone streets.

28. Koufonisia

Koufonisia is a tiny island advanced within the Small Cyclades that boasts a number of the most unique seashores within the Aegean Sea. The principle inhabited island, Pano Koufonisi, is simply 5.5 sq. kilometers however packs unbelievable magnificence into its small measurement.

Pori Seashore is the crown jewel, that includes impossibly turquoise waters and high-quality golden sand that rivals any tropical paradise. Different beautiful seashores embrace Fanos, Platia Pounta, and Italida.

The island maintains an genuine, unspoiled environment with conventional fishing boats, native tavernas serving contemporary seafood, and pleasant locals.

27. Alonissos

Probably the most distant and pristine of the Sporades islands, Alonissos is a haven for nature lovers and people looking for genuine Greek island life. The island is a part of the Nationwide Marine Park of Alonissos, the most important marine protected space in Europe, making it a sanctuary for Mediterranean monk seals, dolphins, and various marine life.

The outdated village of Alonissos, perched excessive on a hilltop, was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1965. Its stone homes and slim alleys provide panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The port city of Patitiri serves because the island’s most important hub with conventional tavernas and native outlets.

Alonissos options quite a few secluded seashores together with Kokkinokastro with its purple cliffs, Chrisi Milia with golden sand, and Leftos Gialos accessible solely by boat. The island’s in depth community of climbing trails leads by means of pine forests, olive groves, and to hidden coves.

26. Folegandros

This dramatic Cycladic island presents a number of the most spectacular cliff-top surroundings and sunsets in Greece. Folegandros stays authentically Greek, with conventional structure and a sluggish tempo of life.

The island’s capital, Chora, is constructed on the sting of a 200-meter cliff and ranks among the many most lovely villages within the Cyclades. Its medieval character is preserved by means of slim marble-paved streets, conventional homes with wood balconies, and the long-lasting Church of Panagia perched dramatically on the clifftop.

Folegandros boasts unbelievable seashores regardless of its rocky terrain. Katergo Seashore, accessible by boat or a difficult hike, options dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Agkali and Livadi provide simpler entry with tavernas and swimming services.

25. Hydra

Automobile-free and timelessly elegant, Hydra is an island the place donkeys and water taxis present the one transportation. This Saronic Gulf island has lengthy attracted artists, writers, and celebrities with its subtle environment and beautiful neoclassical structure.

The island’s horseshoe-shaped harbor is among the most photographed spots in Greece, lined with 18th and Nineteenth-century mansions constructed by rich ship homeowners. The city rises amphitheatrically from the harbor, making a dramatic and picturesque setting.

Hydra’s inventive heritage is clear in its quite a few galleries and museums. The island presents glorious climbing trails resulting in monasteries and secluded seashores like Vlychos and Bisti.

24. Sifnos

Generally known as the culinary capital of the Cyclades, Sifnos combines distinctive gastronomy with conventional Cycladic magnificence. The island has produced many famend Greek cooks and maintains sturdy culinary traditions courting again centuries.

The pottery custom of Sifnos is equally well-known, with native artisans creating lovely ceramics utilizing methods handed down by means of generations. The village of Artemonas showcases magnificent neoclassical mansions, whereas Kastro, the medieval capital, presents beautiful sundown views from its clifftop location.

Sifnos options glorious seashores together with Platis Gialos with its lengthy sandy stretch and seashore bars, Vathi with its protected bay good for households, and Tsigrado accessible by way of a scenic climbing path. The island’s community of historic footpaths supplies a number of the greatest climbing within the Cyclades, passing by means of olive groves, stone partitions, and historic church buildings.

23. Astypalea

Nicknamed the “butterfly of the Aegean” resulting from its distinctive form, Astypalea uniquely blends Cycladic and Dodecanese structure and tradition. This westernmost Dodecanese island presents an ideal mixture of dramatic landscapes, pristine seashores, and genuine Greek environment.

The island’s Chora is topped by a Thirteenth-century Venetian fortress and cascades down the hillside with conventional white-washed homes. The medieval fortress presents panoramic views of the encompassing islands and creates a magical silhouette towards the sundown.

Astypalea boasts quite a few glorious seashores, from the organized seashore of Maltezana to the secluded coves of Kaminakia and Agios Konstantinos. The island’s distinctive geology creates various landscapes, from lunar-like terrains to lush valleys. With restricted tourism infrastructure, Astypalea maintains an genuine character whereas providing comfy lodging and glorious native delicacies that includes contemporary seafood and conventional recipes.

22. Naxos

Naxos, the beautiful island situated within the coronary heart of the Cyclades, presents a definite allure that can’t be discovered anyplace else in Greece. With its white-washed alleys, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters, guests are in a position to expertise true Grecian magnificence.

The seafood is at all times contemporary and cooked to perfection. And whereas the seashores could also be what draw vacationers to Naxos, the island’s capital, Hora, is the place they discover themselves engulfed in its wealthy historical past.

21. Evia

Also referred to as Eubopea, Evia is the second largest island in Greece. Evia island is definitely reached by highway or by ferry. Hikers will take pleasure in a stroll to Dimosari Gorge or Drimona Waterfall.

Evia produces some prime quality white wine, notably on Lilantio Plain close to Halkida. Avantis Property is an award-winning vineyard within the village of Mytikas.

Thermae Sylla Spa and Wellness Lodge is a 5 star lodge that has welcomed celebrities, royalty and politicians corresponding to Winston Churchill since opening in 1896.

Visitors are drawn to the new thermal pool and hydrotherapy remedies. That is thought-about to be the most effective thermal spas on this planet.

There are 80 sizzling springs within the city of Loutra Edipsou, which has attracted guests since historic occasions. The water is wealthy in calcium, iron and magnesium.

20. Corfu

Well-known for the variety of church buildings on the island – 37 in whole, Corfu is among the greenest islands in Greece. Generally nicknamed the Emerald Island, Corfu is the place the primary Greek college was based.

The northernmost Ionian island, Corfu is thought for its Blue Flag seashores. These embrace the beautiful Canal d’Amour, Sidari and eight different seashores. We’ve visited Corfu a number of occasions – listed below are another lovely Corfu seashores to find.

The Outdated City of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Website which has a fifteenth century fortress and engaging Venetian structure. Among the greatest locations to remain in Corfu for peace and quiet embrace Kassiopi, Paleokastritsa, Gouvia and Agios Georgios. Angsana Corfu, overlooking Benitses Bay, has a phenomenal infinity pool and spa.

19. Tinos

Positioned within the Cyclades islands, Tinos boasts charming tavernas, sandy seashores and marble villages. Tinos is among the uncommon locations in Greece the place the villages have alleyways constituted of marble.

The village of Pyrgos is the middle of marble artwork in Tinos. It’s value visiting the Marble Artwork Museum right here when you have time.

That is additionally a very powerful Orthodox centre of worship in Greece. Pilgrims go to the Church of Panagia Megalochari on March 25 and August 15.

18. Kos

One of many Dodecanese islands, Kos has many historic Greek and Roman landmarks, together with the Historical Agora and Casa Romana villa mosaics. Hippocrates, the founder of recent drugs taught underneath the Hippocrates Airplane Tree, which you’ll be able to nonetheless go to at present.

Kos can be identified for its lush vegetation and seashores overlooking the Aegean Sea. In style with cyclists, there are 19 cycle routes with 8 for mountain bikes.

The capital is Kos City, an enthralling place with some fascinating sights corresponding to Neratzia Fortress. Constructed within the 14th century by the Knights of St-John of Jerusalem, the fortress has panoramic views of Kos harbor.

17. Paros

Nestled within the Cyclades archipelago, Paros is straightforward to achieve from Athens. The nightlife in Paros is vibrant and there are some very fairly villages corresponding to Lefkes, Marpissa and Naoussa.

Paros is a well-liked vacation spot for rich Athenians, and has a stealth wealth, unshowy vibe in comparison with islands corresponding to Mykonos. It’s also identified for its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) wine. There’s purple, white and Malvasia, a dessert wine.

For seashores in Paros, there’s loads of selection. Kolymbithres Seashore has some spectacular granite rock formations, whereas Molos is a hidden gem with some good beachside tavernas.

16. Kefalonia

If Kefalonia seems to be acquainted, that’s as a result of it options prominently within the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. The most important Ionian island, Kefalonia is characterised by colourful homes and Greek fir bushes.

These bushes solely develop on the island of Kefalonia. If you’re not sunning your self on the seashores corresponding to Antisamos, Platis Gialos and Myrtos, there’s lots to do.

Among the finest Greek islands for nature lovers, Kefalonia has some spectacular walks. Go climbing alongside The Cypress Path or discover spectacular Melissani Lake Cave. Identified for its turquoise water, the cave may be visited by boat.

15. Skiathos

One of many Sporades islands within the North West Aegean Sea, Skiathos has a enjoyable nightlife scene. There are various open air tavernas and golf equipment.

Skiathos can be a well-liked Greek crusing vacation spot. There are various catamarans and yachts accessible for constitution from Skiathos Outdated Harbour Port.

With over 60 seashores on Skiathos island, you could possibly go to a brand new one on daily basis of your keep. Divers will admire the visibility of 30 meters or extra and crystal clear sea.

14. Karpathos

Also referred to as Carpathos, that is the second largest island within the Dodecanese. Untouched by mass tourism, Karpathos is a perfect selection when you’re searching for a quiet Greek island.

Within the capital, Pigadia, you’ll see the ruins of the Acropolis of Historical Potideon. This historic metropolis was based within the 14th century BC by the Mycenaean individuals.

There are a number of picturesque villages together with Olympos, the place an historic dialect continues to be spoken, and Volada, with its bougainvillea adorned homes. Mesochori is one other charming village overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Head to sandy Apella or Kyra Panagia Seashore for some relaxation and leisure. From Diafani Seashore you possibly can take a ship to discover the islet of Saria.

13. Milos

This volcanic Greek island is a part of the Cyclades. The enduring Venus de Milo statue that’s now displayed within the Louvre, Paris was found right here.

Milos has some unbelievable rock formations, nicknamed the Sea Meteora. That’s as a result of they’re as spectacular as these famend Central Greek landmarks.

Kleftiko Seashore is among the greatest locations on Milos to admire this lunar panorama. This hidden gem can solely be reached by boat.

12. Symi

Probably the most charming islands within the Dodecanese, Symi is much less well-known than its neighbors Kos and Rhodes. There are various colourful Neoclassical type homes lining Gialos harbour.

Symi is a straightforward day journey from Rhodes, with boat journeys solely taking 1 hour. This small island is an effective place from which to convey again souvenirs corresponding to pure sponges or handmade leather-based gadgets.

You probably have time, go to Panormitis Monastery. Rebuilt in 1783, this Greek Orthodox monastery has a wonderful setting on the Southern coast within the village of Panormitis. Alternatively, head to Marathounda seashore the place goats roam free!

11. Thassos

This North Aegean island is extraordinarily unspoiled and properly value a go to. Thassos is nicknamed the Inexperienced Island, because of the abundance of olive bushes, pines and cypresses.

Thassos has beforehand been colonised by the Phoenicians, Persians, the Macedonian Empire and the Ottomans. There are fairly a number of vestiges of this previous in Limenas, the capital of Thassos.

The Acropolis of Thasos is a vital Greek landmark and the Archaeological Museum of Thassos can be fascinating. In fact, there are numerous nice seashores on Thassos too, together with Psili Ammos, Paradise Seashore and La Scala.

10. Syros

Additionally spelt as Siros or Syra, this Cyclades island is a good various to Santorini. There are various lovely white-stucco buildings and cobbled alleyways.

Ermoupoli is the capital of Syros and has some spectacular landmarks such because the Apollon Theater. Galissas is among the greatest seashores on Syros. That is one in every of 6 Blue Flag seashores on Syros.

9. Lefkada

This Ionian Sea island is blessed with beautiful seashores corresponding to Porto Katsiki, Agiofylli, Pefkoulia and Eggremoi. Ai Iannis is a well-liked seashore with surfers.

Lefkada, which is also called Lefkas, has some incredible eating places and native produce. Attempt ladopita, a standard Lefkada dessert made with olive oil and almonds.

Lefkas wines are one other should attempt. There are two grape varieties which might be solely grown on the island: Vardea and Vertzami.

8. Serifos

This quiet Greek island within the Western Cyclades is a hidden gem. The picturesque windmills of Serifos might remind you of Mykonos however the environment is much more sedate!

Divers will take pleasure in exploring the shipwreck mendacity on the seabed at Kalogeros Seashore. In all, there are 72 seashores on Serifos.

The island was an essential mining hub and you may see remnants of the outdated mines in Megalo Horio, Koutalas and Μegalo Livadi.

7. Rhodes

The most important of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is a good vacation spot for archaeology lovers. There are various essential landmarks on Rhodes, together with the Acropolis of Lindos and the traditional metropolis of Kamiros.

The medieval metropolis of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Website. Wander across the Avenue of Knights within the Higher City and cease for a drink at a Rhodes taverna.

The Palace of the Grand Grasp of the Knights of Rhodes is an uncommon instance of Greek Gothic structure. There are various sandy seashores in Rhodes, with Tsambika Seashore being the most effective.

Anthony Quinn Bay was initially known as Vagies, however renamed after the film The Weapons of Navarone was filmed right here.

6. Kimolos

This picturesque island within the Cyclades is a good place to get off the crushed path in Greece. You may attain Kimolos by taking the ferry from Piraeus port in Athens or from the neighboring island of Milos.

Like Milos, Kimolos has a number of volcanic rock formations. Probably the most uncommon sights on Kimolos is Skiadi.

This geological formation was fashioned by erosion and appears a bit like a mushroom. One other enjoyable factor to do on Kimolos is to discover the ocean caves close to Prassa Seashore.

5. Skopelos

Should you’re a fan of the film Mamma Mia!, you’ll acknowledge Skopelos island the place it was filmed. Agios Ioannis chapel is the place Donna and Sam get married, whereas Glysteri seashore and Agnontas village additionally characteristic.

Skopelos is a part of the Northern Sporades island group. You may attain it by ferry from Agios Konstantinos or Volos.

The principle city of Chora, also called Skopelos City, has some charming homes with white-washed facades. There are additionally 360 church buildings and chapels.

4. Mykonos

Probably the most in style Greek islands for nightlife, Mykonos additionally has some unbelievable seashores. Head to Elia to identify a number of celebrities or to Tremendous Paradise Seashore Membership for the social gathering environment.

In excessive season, Mykonos may be extraordinarily busy. One of the simplest ways to see this island is to keep away from the Summer season months and to go to in September or October.

The well-known windmills of Mykonos may be discovered on a hill close to the picturesque Little Venice space. They’re not used to grind flour and a few are actually personal properties.

There are some nice eating places on Mykonos. It’s value attempting Myconian specialties corresponding to louza, constituted of pork loin and seasoned with spices.

3. Crete

The most important island in Greece, Crete boasts 600 miles of shoreline. There are a number of picturesque cities corresponding to Chania and Rethymno.

Crete has a number of the most lovely seashores in Greece. Absorb the solar on Balos Seashore, with its crystal clear water. Crete can be an awesome vacation spot for hikers.

Samaria Gorge is the longest trekking gorge in Europe, at 11 miles. On this well-known Greek Nationwide Park you possibly can spot animals just like the Cretan goat.

There are additionally some fascinating historic websites and historic ruins on Crete. Knossos is the most important Bronze Age archaeological web site on the island.

2. Zante

Also referred to as Zakynthos, the island of Zante is among the hottest locations within the Ionian Sea. Navagio seashore is reached by boat, and is known for the shipwreck which ran aground in 1980.

The Blue Caves are one other fascinating Zante attraction. You may take a glass-bottom boat tour from Agios Nikolaos, Porto Vromi or Zakynthos City.

Go snorkeling within the Nationwide Marine Park of Zakynthos to identify the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. Alternatively, sit back on Alkyes or Gerakas Seashore.

1. Santorini

No record of essentially the most lovely Greek islands could be full with out Santorini. This well-known Cyclades vacation spot is thought for its whitewashed homes and blue domed church buildings.

What most individuals don’t understand is that Santorini is definitely a set of islands. These embrace Aspronissi, Palea, Thira, Nea Kameni and Thirassia islets. Thira is the island that most individuals know as Santorini, with the attractive villages of Oia and Fira.

Thira is a volcanic island and though it’s classed as lively, it’s presently dormant. You may take a volcanic climbing tour to see Santorini caldera up shut.

We’ve visited the island a number of occasions and there are numerous nice locations to remain on Santorini, notably NOUS Santorini and Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas. You’ll additionally discover some incredible cave resorts corresponding to Alisaris Cave Suites, constructed into the rocks. The seashores in Santorini are primarily black, as they’re composed of volcanic sand and pebbles.

The Most Lovely Greek Islands

Right here’s a recap of the 21 prettiest Greek islands:

• 1. Santorini
• 2. Zante
• 3. Crete
• 4. Mykonos
• 5. Skopelos
• 6. Kimolos
• 7. Rhodes
• 8. Serifos
• 9. Lefkada
• 10. Siros
• 11. Thassos
• 12. Symi
• 13. Milos
• 14. Karpathos
• 15. Skiathos
• 16. Kefalonia
• 17. Paros
• 18. Kos
• 19. Tinos
• 20. Corfu
• 21. Evia
• 22. Naxos
• 23. Astypalea
• 24. Sifnos
• 25. Hydra
• 26. Folegandros
• 27. Alonissos
• 28. Koufonisia
• 29. Antiparos

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