Home Destinations Europe Planning a Perfect Greek Island Vacation? Here Is Your One-Stop Guide

Planning a Perfect Greek Island Vacation? Here Is Your One-Stop Guide

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Planning a Perfect Greek Island Vacation? Here Is Your One-Stop Guide
<center>Photo by Alex Blăjan</center>

The best thing about greek islands is that each island has its unique identity. There are more than 200 Greek Isles inhabited including 6000 islands. Yes, you heard it right there are more than 6000 greek islands that you can visit. Knowing about the review is done by people, they say that the magnitude of pleasure and diversity you experience there Can only be seen once you actually experience it on that spot. First-time visitors have their own description of those Greek islands. They say that it is a monolithic entity that gives your eyes a unique pleasure just like you have stalled in premium malls. Natural beauty is something worth experiencing. The lush green islands have residences colored in blue and white. 

If we count the best Greek islands to visit, the number is six. These six main islands have been categorized as the easiest to travel. Plus there is one more stand-alone island that is Crete. 

However, Do not quote the number six as it is. There are more than 25 islands to visit in Greece. While there are more than 200 inhabited islands to explore, one might not be able to complete the journey in their lifetime. It’s about prioritizing what you need. Whether you need aquamarine waters or attractive monuments or even brilliant sunsets, you can get it all on these islands. You need to decide the order of your preference and then choose the best-suited ones for your location. You can even choose one of the islands as your favorite one as you are spoilt for choices.

Getting a hang of Greek islands

We know it’s difficult as you just read the number 200. Most Greek islands have Airports, while only a few of them are international. Even some of them do not have good connectivity as they are only Connected by single airlines. You can just reach them from the neighboring islands. That might be bad news for someone who wants to travel. However, The good news is that you can travel by water. so, why fly if you can cruise in the waters. It’s even better. Isn’t it? 

  • Traveling through the water is the simplest way of popping on different islands especially if you choose to stay Within just one set of islands. You also have the option to choose a high-speed ferry and many travelers experience these greek ferries to explore all the options quickly. You also have the option to go with less expensive ferries. 
  • The best option is to rent a car and drive it onto the ferry and take it along with you to all the islands you’re hoping to explore. This will be the best road trip you will ever imagine. Renting a car is very simple. You just need to have an international driver’s license and you’re good to go. 
  • Another option is to rent a car on each of these islands separately. While it is more convenient, you will have to pay more. So, in conclusion, it is a trade-off between convenience and price. 

What’s the best time to visit the Greek Isles?

We get this question a lot. So, here is the answer for you. The best months are June and September. There is a reason why we are saying this. It’s because, in some months, the weather might be better but the crowd will be unbearable. As you know the islands are really popular especially in the countries nearby, people come in huge numbers. 

During these months, you will also have the option of more ferry routes and the flights also operate at lower intervals as compared to the other times of the year. Most of the restaurants will also be open around this time only. You will get to choose between beach bars, fine dining, and the best tourist spots. But keep in mind that the prices are also the highest around this time.

The best part about Greek islands is that every island has its own unique weather. Crete, as you mentioned above is the warmest all year round. So, if you visit any island during winters, this should be the first choice. So, to choose the best island, you need to look for the time of the year you are visiting. 

But there’s a catch here also. At different times of the year, different islands pop out. That is the beauty of the Greek islands. From November to March, Santorini is the one to choose as your top priority. Once we go into the details, I will also mention the best time to visit that island. 

Speaking from a personal point of view, if you want someone to carry your luggage around, I will always be there because I’m craving to go there again. I have never been bored of visiting Greece and the same will be the case even if I do that a thousand more times. It is One of the most gorgeous pieces of land I’ve ever seen in my life. In fact, the more you experience it, the more you want to go as your journey becomes smooth the next time. 

23 best Greek Islands to Visit

Now that we have described a lot about greek islands, let’s go into the details of each one. I’m sure you’ll find this article very interesting especially if you are visiting them in the near future. Each island will have the best things to do and how to reach that particular place attached to its description. So, let’s start with the never-ending list.

Santorini

Since every island has its unique history, Santorini is no different. It was made due to a huge volcanic eruption that happen around 1615 BC. A single island imploded and succumbed to the sea. Atlantis had its original home on this island and that’s why it is also called the lost city. Currently, some beautiful beaches guard this island and are the only remains of that volcanic eruption. The homes are whitewashed and a beautiful blue sky envelops it all.

Santorini has two inhabited islands and multiple files. The Archipelago’s Largest island witnesses the most visitors since it is the major town of Santorini. The name is Thira. Along with the other two towns that are Oia and Fira, The place faces the highest number of tourists. It’s a great place to have a relaxing day trip. If you want the quietest of islands, you can explore Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

The first thing to do once you visit Santorini is to go to those beaches that guard the site. You’ll be greeted by red and black sand that makes the best view. There are some archaeological delights to witness as well. The ancient city of Thera is also worth exploring. You’ll see the ruins of the three empires that once belonged to the Romans. 

Corfu

We keep this island the second on the list of best Greek islands to visit. This island attracts a lot of travelers who look to enjoy the scenic beauty escaping the everyday hustle of life. You will see the lushest landscapes and you’ll be greeted with the smell of sectors and olives from the grove nearby. All your stress melts away once you visit those beaches with pebbly sand beneath your feet. You’ll feel like you’ve found paradise on earth. The coastline is miles long and the beaches are the main attraction for tourists every year.

Crete

This has been a popular choice for many tourists and for us as well. There is a lot to do on this island. In fact, will go as far as saying that this island keeps you the busiest when it comes to things to do. The Palace of Knossos and Heraklion Archeological museum are places of attraction for people interested in history. The Island has sandy beaches for you to enjoy the sun. If you are the adventurous type, you can also go hiking at Samaria Gorge in Chania and there are a lot of antique shopping places at Agios Nikolaos. 

Hydra

This island is a part of the southwest of Athens, namely the Saronic Gulf. If you want a rural type while away from the urban region, you’ll find hydra as the best option. The number of motor vehicles here is the lowest. You will most probably find animals transporting people and essentials from one place to another. Also, you’ll find yourself maneuvering your way around the island on foot. And that is the most attractive thing for travelers at hydra. Again, it is covered with beaches on the coast and you can explore the charming side of this island in traditional houses and there are some nightlife venues that you should definitely explore. 

Kefalonia

This island is one of the most unique of them all. The beauty that this island had to offer was almost destroyed during an earthquake that occurred in 1953. However, even the most disastrous happening couldn’t take away its magic. The diverse landscape has enough colors for you to cherish the scenery for your lifetime. You can also have A good sun-soaking session on the sandy and public beaches of the island. You will get a big adrenaline rush if you hike to the top of Mega Soros. 

Naxos

Then comes the largest Cyclades of the lot. You have a lot more shore to explore on this island. The number of which is also more than the others and you can always explore them all. The west side of the island gets a lot of wind so you also have the option of windsurfing and kite surfing. For that, you might have to take a lesson. The ancient ruins of a few temples were also there for you to experience. 

Mykonos

If you want a typical Greek vacation, this is the island to go for. You have the option to relax with a cocktail especially when you have done a lot of dancing in bars and clubs on the other islands. The must-dos here include Trying out and taking a good look at the whitewashed architectural structures all around. Although keep in mind that you will have to pay a lot to make full use of this island especially when the peak summer is there. You will see a lot of tourists and flights coming up during the peak season. so, it’s better to book your competition in advance.

Skopelos

If you are an outdoorsy person and spend a lot of time watching movies, you have the best choice in Skopelos. This is the greenest island you will find in this slot. A few movies have been shot at this location. This island is also home to vineyards, orchards, pine forests, and olive groves. Sand and public beaches are almost common on every island but this has a beautiful stretch of such beaches to catch the famous sunsets you’ll ever find a breeze. 

Delos

As per Greek mythology, the God Apollo and the goddess Artemis were born on this island. This is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and UNESCO also recognizes it as one.   The ruins or something worth watching along with the Sanctuary of Apollo and Artemision, and the terrace of lions. You can also go for a hike to get a panoramic view of the surrounding islands. You can also go for a sunset view in the evening like on any other island in Greece. 

Paros

An adventurous person would never miss this island. It is popular for water sports like kite surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, go boating, and many other experiences. If you don’t want to go to the beach, you still have a lot to do. You can visit restaurants, boutiques, and bars that are huge in number. Again, like a few other islands in Greece, you can visit historical sites and also if you come in summer, you can attend the festival at the park that is an event held annually on this island. 

Zakynthos

The coastline of this island is full of beaches and other hidden covers. The main attraction on this island is the coastline itself. There is a shipwreck beach and some magical blue caves where you can experience the pleasure of the sky and white limestone that turns the water blue from your perspective. There is a  Venetian Castle from which you can take a look at the main town of the island. 

Koufonisia

This island is a set of three and might be the smallest of those Cyclades we mentioned above. Pano Koufonisia Is the inhabited island of the three and here you will find the most beautiful beaches where clothing is an option. This island will give you the most secluded and isolated feel even in the daytime. You can go sightseeing at a port and also for a swim to refresh your mind in the water. Away from the water, there are a few protected archaeological sites to enjoy. 

Ikaria

Island has the highest life expectancy of them all. The residents of this island play well above their 90s in good health. If you want to unwind from regular tasks, this is the place to go. The beaches on this island can be used for surfing and swimming. Away from the water, you can go hiking, mountain biking, or rock climbing. You’ll also be amazed to know that this island has the most amazing vineyards for you to try after a long hectic day. 

Patmos

If you want an all-in-one experience, Patmos Is the island for you. The scenic beauty and archaeological sites appeal to everyone here. The book of Revelation was Road here by Saint John based on the vision he had when the world ended. Again, like every other island, you will have a lot of sandy beaches where you can soak in the sun, go boating and swimming. 

Kos

This island is native to multiple historic sites that every history buff will enjoy witnessing. All those archaeological enthusiasts who want to experience old-world relics from medieval history have their best choice on this island. You have an 18th-century mosque tree of Hippocrates where they say that the Famous Greek physician was born. This physician taught students. The island has more than 70 miles of coastline and you might not be able to cover them all. You will have to prioritize what we choose to visit. 

Ios

The island is best to visit during the summer season. The scenes at night are the best where you can enjoy the island let up at nightclubs and beach parties. You can also see the quieter side of this island during the day. With whitewashed buildings and windy streets, you like the overall ambiance of this island. This is best combined with Santorini as it’s just north of it. 

Skiathos

While most other Greek islands are famous for the number of beaches and archaeological sites, this island has more to offer. There is a banana beach where clothing is optional and Lalaria beach which has 60 stunning views around it. The color of the water is pure blue and you have a lot of fun while sailing. 

Milos

On this island, no matter where you are, you will see beautiful scenes out there. There are 80 beaches on this island and you will find yourself prioritizing things right from when you visit the island. There is rock formation from volcanic eruptions in the past and the houses have different colors and like other islands. You’ll also witness multiple caves, hiking trails, and hot springs.

Kythira

Visitors are astounded by the beauty of Kythira. Greek mythologists say that the Greek goddess of beauty was born here and that is the reason why this island is one of the most beautiful of them all. You will find beautiful waterfalls other than the beaches. The village of Mylopotamos offers hiking trails.

Sifnos

If you are a foodie, this is the island for you. You will find unique Greek cuisine to try including the spicy cheese covered in red wine sediment that is Mansoura and a lamb cooked in a wood-burning oven dipped in spices and red wine that is Marcelo. You will also find the best pottery over here. the shops offer authentic souvenirs of this craft. You will also be finding yourself among the beautiful scenery around if you choose to go sightseeing. 

Syros

If you want to spend your vacation on this island, you will find a lot of tourists watching cultural and historical sites over there. The scene is much quieter than on the other islands. You can explore the charming towns over there with some architectural structures that are marvels. The sandy beaches of the island offer relaxation after a hectic day of sightseeing. 

Kalymnos

This island offers many adventurous activities like water sports, rock climbing, hiking trails, etc. So, for all those outdoorsy adventurous minds out there, this is the first island to visit if you visit Greece. You will also find underwater caves, sea sponges, shipwrecks, and reefs. Scuba-diving is also an option here. Most tourists will go for those adventurous activities as this island is popular for all those streams and terrains that support those activities. 

Nisyros

This island might have the least number of breaches of them all. However, the distinguishing features of this island make up for the lack of sand here. The youngest volcano in Greece resides here. You can also visit the volcanological museum and learn about the history of this island and of course the volcano.

So, here is a list of 23 Greek islands that you can visit and plan your vacation accordingly. Believers, these are the most beautiful Greek islands anyone can visit at this time. Even the best places in Greece or nowhere near the scenic beauty of these islands.

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