The Greek Islands, in general, are a dream place for many travelers seeking azure waters and sandy beaches. Winters are mild, especially in the island groups dotting the heart of the Mediterranean. It’s hard to choose a favorite island.
Traveling to the Greek Islands is a good choice to skip the cold winters in other parts of Europe. However, reaching these places is not always so easy. During summer, busy ferries work all day long to reach some of the remotest islands of the archipelagos.
My Favorite Greek Islands
1. Santorini Island
The most iconic island among the Cyclades, Santorini is known as one of the best Greek Islands for couples due to its romantic sunsets. Practically you can watch the sunset alone with your partner from almost anywhere along the island’s cliff edge.
The traditional towns of Fira and Oia feature picturesque whitewashed houses, built on the steep slopes of the caldera. In this vibrant and bustling place, the churches’ domes are painted in blue to mimic the color of the sea and sky.
The black-sand beaches and the wineries of the island are only a few of the highlights of Santorini. You can easily spend one week on the island and still not see everything.
Perissa, Perivolos, and Agios Georgios beaches are packed with lively bars, traditional Greek tavernas, and a wide range of water sports. The historic site of Akrotiri attracts not only historic lovers but also romantic couples who are curious to discover the Minoan architecture.
Anafi and Sikinos are two small islands located at a stone’s throw from Santorini. Venturing to these places, you will discover quite and remote sites, off the tourist radar. Maybe this will become one of your favorite Greek islands too?
2. Thassos Island
Thassos is maybe the most popular island for summer holidays in the Northeastern Aegean Sea. The green island is very close to the mainland port of Kavala so the ferry ride takes less than one hour to reach Thassos.
The road that goes around the island stretches approximately 90km so you can easily drive the whole island in one single day. However, there are so many stunning and hidden places in Thassos, that you can stay on the island for many days and still not have seen all its hidden gems.
On the northeastern shores of the island, the Golden Beach and the Marble Beach are the most popular places for families with children. On the flip side, Cape Salonikos hides surprising coves with wild beaches on the southern shoreline.
Moreover, don’t underestimate the charm of the mountain villages of Maries and Theologos. Tucked away in the heart of the mountains, Theologos was the first Ottoman capital of the island during the Middle Ages and features well-preserved old houses built of stone.
3. Rhodes Island
Rhodes is the most accessible island from the Dodecanese group. Only 40km away from the Turkish port of Marmaris, Rhodes Town (the capital) can be visited on a one-day trip from Turkey.
The old town has narrow winding streets, a Turkish and a Jewish quarter as well as the Knights Quarter with the impressive Palace of the Grand Master.
Circling the island by car, you will discover a tempting chain of beaches on the eastern shores of the island. Lindos is the second town of Rhodes and it features an acropolis perched atop a historic center packed with white-washed houses.
On the western side of the island, the ruins of the castle of Monolithos imposingly stand on a clifftop and remind of the times when the Ottomans ruled here.
4. Crete Island
Without any doubt, Crete is the biggest island among the Greek Archipelagos. Standing in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea (very close to Turkey and Egypt), Crete has delicious cuisine, lively coastal towns, and remains of ancient civilizations.
Crete also has its own international airport and many low-cost companies run direct flights to Heraklion and Chania.
Heraklion is the bustling capital of the island, a mixture of modern architecture with strong local imprints. Near Heraklion, the archaeological site of Knossos recreates the days of the grand capital of Minoan Crete and features a big palace built of Cyclopean masonry.
The coastal old towns of Chania and Rethymno are the most enchanting ones of the island and definitely worth a visit.
But if you really want to explore the wild corners of Crete, then the Samaria Gorges are one of Europe’s longest canyons and can be hiked along a 16km-long trail through the gorges.
5. Corfu Island
Sitting at the border between Greece and Albania, Corfu is the perfect getaway for travelers seeking lush sceneries, pristine beaches, and traditional architecture.
Tourism resorts have developed particularly close to Corfu Town but other parts of the island have successfully escaped the crowds. Small Greek villages are scattered throughout the island while tempting beaches hidden in remote coves dot Corfu’s coastline.
Corfu town features world-class museums, medieval fortresses, and a genuine mix of Venetian, French, and British architecture.
12km south of Corfu Town, you must stop and visit the classic architecture and terraced gardens of the Achilion Palace. While exploring the western shoreline, don’t miss the resort area of Paleokastritsa. There you can discover an Orthodox monastery, swim in picturesque bays, and hike to delightful hilltop villages.
