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best islands in greece
Best islands in Greece

The 15 Best Islands in Greece

Discover the Most Beautiful Islands in Greece. From Corfu to Santorini the Best Greek Islands await you.

 

There are about 6000! Some are uninhabited, others are difficult to access. Some are perfect for nature lovers, others are ideal for partying.

 

Some Greek islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, others to UNESCO heritage treasures.

 

How to get there? By ferry, plane? What is the best time of the year to visit the most beautiful Greek islands? Here are the answers to your questions and some suggestions to make your trip to Greece an unforgettable experience.

 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in Greece, Best Hidden Gems in Greece, Best Destinations to visit in Greece, Best Things to do in Greece as well as the Best Nature Wonders in Greece.

 

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Greece and treat yourself to a holiday on the best Greek islands.

 


Best Creek Islands - Santorini
Copyright Andrew Mayovskyy

1. Santorini

In Santorini the blue of the sea blends with the blue of the sky and the blue roofs of the houses. This island, ranked among the best destinations for a honeymoon in Europe, is also one of the most beautiful Greek islands.

 

The easiest way is to book a direct flight to Santorini. You can also take a connection (a connecting flight) from Athens to Santorini (1h).

 

You have plenty of time and do not want to rush to your destination? You can experience a ferry trip and  discover the Santorini archipelago in Ferry. It starts from the port of Athens (Piraeus) which is easy to access, the metro stops a few metres from the boat dock and there are crossings several times a day (mainly in the morning between 8am and 10am). The crossing lasts about 6 hours.

 

On your arrival in Santorini you can take a bus or taxi to your hotel. Some hotels even offer you the ride with a free shuttle. If you want to be at the heart of the tourist postcard we advise you to book your room in the village of Oia, located northwest of the island of Santorini.

 

 How to get there: Book your direct flights to Santorini Airport (or via Athens, 1 hour flight).

 

 Where to stay: For a quiet stay, book your room today at the best price at "Santorini Villas". It features outdoor pool and views of the Aegean Sea.

 


Best Greek Islands - Corfu Island
Copyright Kess16

2. Corfu

Corfu is on the podium of your Best Greek Islands! The beach of Paleokrastritsa and its monastery, the nightlife of Sidari and the beach of the "Canal d'amour", the seaside resort of Agios Georgios or the old town of Corfu and its rich Byzantine heritage await you this summer.

 

The best time of the year to visit Corfu is certainly spring (from May) and summer (until late August). April and September are quite rainy but not as much as November and December that should be avoided. Be that as it may, all this rain that falls in winter makes Corfu one of the greenest and most beautiful Greek islands.

 

The island is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday under the sun. It was marked by the Venetian, Arabic and British cultures as it was under their control for centuries. Come discover this rich historical past, stay at its paradisiacal beaches, enjoy its wine, its virgin olive oil and offer yourself a private Corfu full-day wine tasting tour or a 5-hour private Corfu & Achillion palace tour.

 

Book your flights to Corfu as well as your accommodation at the best price and treat yourself to a dream holiday in one of the most beautiful Greek islands.

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Corfu Airport.

 

Where to stay: For a comfortable stay away from the bustle of the city, book your accommodation at "Akti Barbati houses", located 100 metres from the beach of Barmpati.

 


Best Greek Islands - Kefalonia
Copyright Arturasker

3. Kefalonia Island

The highest mountains of the Ionian Islands await you on one of the most beautiful Greek islands.

 

Located south of the islands of Corfu and Lefkada, Kefalonia is famous for its sandy coves. Do not miss to visit Myrtos Beach and Antisamos beach. For nature lovers we recommend  Melissani Lake, ranked among the best nature wonders in Greece.

 

You like good wines, good food? Kefalonia is also a destination for gourmets. After a food tour during which you will enjoy the traditional flavours, exquisite local wines, amazing honey, virgin oil, enjoy a romantic evening on a traditional wooden sailing boat and admire the sunset over the sea.

 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in GreeceBest Hidden Gems in GreeceBest Destinations to visit in GreeceBest Things to do in Greece as well as the Best Nature Wonders in Greece.

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Kefalonia International Airport.

 

Where to stay:  If you want to relax, enjoy a sublime pool, book your room today at the best price at "F Zeen" enjoying panoramic Ionian Sea and garden views.

 


Best Greek Islands - Mykonos
Copyright Aetherial Images

4. Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands; you will love its mills, terraces of the district of "Little Venice" licked by the waves,its whitewashed houses and its blue roofs.

 

Revelers from all over the world love Mykonos but the island has a wide variety of faces: it is popular with gay travellers but also nature lovers, hikers, water sports enthusiasts or families, Mykonos has it all. 

 

The easiest way to get there is to book your direct flights to Mykonos or pass through Athens and take a domestic flight (40 minutes) to Mykonos. You can also reach the island by ferry from the Port of Piraeus to Athens. It is easily accessible by metro and several crossings connect Athens to Mykonos every day of the week (3 hours crossings).

 

Book your flights to Mykonos and your accommodation at the best price as well as your  tours & activities in Mykonos as a "Mykonos: Private Cruise on a Luxury Yacht".

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Mykonos (or via Athens, 40 minutes flight).

 

Where to stay: "Trinity Mykonos" has a private beach and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.

 


Best Greek Islands - Paros
Copyright Kite_rin

5. Paros

If you only had to choose one Greek island in the Aegea Sea for a holiday, Paros island  would definitely be the one.

 

We love Paros for its incredible sandy beaches, beautiful traditional villages and white houses with blue roofs and fishing ports. Paros is like Santorini, but quieter, it is a bit like Mykonos without its unbridled nightlife.

 

We advise you to visit Paros in May and June or September, the climate is ideal and the accommodation cheaper. Of course if you do not have the choice the high season is also a good time to visit one of the most beautiful Greek islands but the accommodation and ferry crossings will be  more expensive .

 

The easiest way to get to Paros is to book flights to Athens, Mykonos or Santorini and then a ferry (4 hours from Athens, 30 minutes from Mykonos). In recent years Paros also has an airport that connects Athens and Thessaloniki. Travel more and spend less by booking your flights and accommodation at the best price in Paros and your tours and activities in Paros

 

How to get there: Book your flights to Mykonos and join Paros by ferry (30 minutes).

 

Where to stay: For its incredible giant bougainvillea and the quality of the welcome and friendliness of the host,  Stefano, we advise you to book your room at the best price at "Stefano Apartments", one of our bestsellers in Paros.

 


Best Greek Islands - Marathonisi Island
Copyright Samuel Borges Photography

6. Marathonisi Island

Zakynthos

Marathonisi is also called "Turtle islands". Located south of the island of Zakynthos, it is also one of the most beautiful Greek islands. The easiest way to go to this small island is to book your flights to Zakynthos and your accommodation at the best price on the island of Zakynthos. It is not possible to stay overnight on the island of Marathonisi which is a nesting place for turtles.

 

It is more pleasant to visit the island off season: there can be a lot of tourists on this tiny island in July and August. Marathonisi Island is within easy reach from Zakynthos Port.

 

 How to get there:  Book your flights to Zakynthos Airport.

 

 Where to stay: The views of Marathonisi Island at "Exensian Villas & Suites" with private pools and hydromassage is stunning.

 


Best Greek Islands - Rhodes Island
Copyright cge2010

7. Rhodes Island

We all agree: this summer you will rather spend your holidays on the island of Rhodes in Greece than on Rhode Island in the USA, one of the smallest and most populous states in the USA.

 

Read your destination carefully !Choose Rhodes with an “s” Rhodes is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and certainly one of the most beautiful islands in Europe. It is a perfect destination for any type of traveller. You like history? Rhodes is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe, so do not miss a visit to the Palace of the Grand Master. You like a sunny holiday? Rhodes is sunny from May to end of September. You just like laying in the sun? The beach of Tsambika and its turquoise waters await you.

 

During your stay, discover the Best Beaches in GreeceBest Hidden Gems in GreeceBest Destinations to visit in GreeceBest Things to do in Greece as well as the Best Nature Wonders in Greece.

 

 Treat yourself to a dream holiday on one of the most beautiful Greek islands.

 

How to get there:  Book direct flights to Rhodes or fly to Athens (1H flight).

 

Where to stay:  "Rhodes Bay Hotel & Spa" is a 5-star hotel, just 50 min from the beach.

 


Best Greek Islands - Symi Island
Copyright leoks

8. Symi Island

Close to Bodrum and Marmaris seaside resorts, Symi Island is the preferred destination for demanding travellers in search of sun, rest and exquisite seafood restaurants. It is a perfect destination for families but also for lovers.

 

Symi island is with the island of Santorini one of the most romantic destinations in Greece and one of the Best Greek Islands. Nimboria beach, Pedi beach, Nos beach and Panormitis beach, and the small but beautiful beaches of Symi Island are awaiting you.

 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in GreeceBest Hidden Gems in GreeceBest Destinations to visit in GreeceBest Things to do in Greece as well as the Best Nature Wonders in Greece.

 

How to get there:  We advise you to book your flights to Rhodes and to cross to Symi (45 minutes) from the port of Rhodes. 

 

Where to stay: "Villa Galanis" facing the seafront in Symi has a furnished garden terrace.

 


Best Greek islands  - Kos Island
George Papapostolou

9. Kos Island

Kos island is known worldwide for its sublime sandy beaches such as Agios Foka beach, Lagada beach, Kardamena beach, Agios Stenanos beach. Located in front of the seaside resort of Bodrum, Kos is one of the most beautiful Greek islands.

 

It is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday in the sun with family, lovers or friends. The easiest way to get there is to book your flights to Kos Airport or to book your flight to Athens plus a domestic flight to Kos (1 hour). Travelling by plane is not your cup of tea? There’s a ferry to the island of Kos from the port of Athens (4 crossings a week) but you will have to be patient because the crossing takes 11 hours!

 

Book your Kos Island flights and accommodation and your tours and activities in Kos. 

 

 How to get there: Book your direct flights to Kos or take a domestic flight from Athens (+ 1hour).

 

 Where to stay: One of our top picks in Kos is "Kos Aktis", a luxurious minimalist design hotel.

 


Best Greek Islands - Milos Island
Copyright Georgios Tsichlis

10. Milos Island

Country

Have you ever been to the Louvre Museum in Paris? Whether your answer is "yes" or "no" you have probably heard about the "Venus de Milo". Some people think that "Milo" was the sculptor of this statue but the name "Milo" comes from "Milos" the Greek island on which this statue was found in the 19th century.

 

The Venus was discovered by a peasant who was digging his field in search of suitable stones to build a wall.

 

The best way to get to Milos is to fly from Athens (1 hour). You can also take a ferry or a Sea Jet (faster than the Ferry) from the port of Athens (5 hours).

 

Treat yourself to a relaxing day on the beautiful beach of Sarakiniko, ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Greece or on the most exclusive beach of Firiplaka. For history lovers, do not forget to visit the Ancient Theatre of Milos and the Milos Archaelogical Museum.

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Milos (direct flights or via Athens).

 

Where to stay: We recommend "Michalakis Seaside Suites", this is our guest's favourite part of Milos and it is just 300 m from the beach.

 


Best Greek Islands - Zakynthos Island
Copyright Samot

11. Zakynthos Island

You may already know Zakynthos for the famous Shipwreck Cove, a sublime beach where a smuggler boat ran aground a few years ago. This incredible beach looks a bit like Maya Bay Beach on Koh Phi Phi Ley Island in Thailand, (famous thanks to the movie "The Beach"). To be honest it is now almost as frequented as her Thai sister now but do not worry, there are dozens of  beautiful and much quieter beaches on the island of Zakynthos. Porto Limnionas beach, Marathonisi Island and its beautiful turtles, Banana beach, Kalamaki beach, ...

 

Zakynthos is the perfect island for travellers looking for great horizons, nature, sublime sandy beaches and sun from April to end of October.

 

Treat yourself to a fresh "Mythos" (a Greek beer) or enjoy a "Ouzo" national alcohol drink on a terrace at the end of the day, but before you do so we suggest a boat tour in Zante: the view of one of the most beautiful Greek islands is amazing and if the captain is nice you may even become the captain of the boat for a while! If you are a nature lover, treat yourself to a "Turtle Spotting Cruise on a Glass-Bottom Boat" and take a unique look at the waters of Zakynthos.

 

When you book your flight, bear in mind that the island of Zakynthos is also called "Zante", both denominations are correct.

 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zakynthos Airport. 

 

 Where to stay:  For its magnificent views of the Ionian Sea, its private beach and infinity pools we recommend the "Lesante Blu".

 


Best Greek Islands - Hydra Island
Copyright Leoks

12. Hydra Island

Hydra Island is one of the most charming Saronic islands and closest to Athens. This is the reason why you ranked it among the Best Greek Islands.

 

Book your flights to Athens and take the bus to the Port of Athens (Piraeus Port). There are 6 crossings a day. Hydra Island can be reached in less than two hours. Small tip: do not book a rental car in Athens, Hydra is a carfree island. Do not worry, you can ride donkeys or take water taxis to vist the island.

 

Walk on Leonard Cohen's steps:  Hydra was his favourite holiday spot. 

 

Book your flights and accommodation today at the best price on the beautiful island of Hydra.

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Athens and catch the ferry from Piraeus Port (2hrs).

 

Where to stay: One of our top picks in Hydra is the "Miranda" hotel, located 100 m from the port and 200 m from the beach.

 


Best Greek Islands - Naxos
Copyright cge2010

13. Naxos Island

With its magnificent Venetian mansions, whitewashed houses, ancient ruins and incredibly long and beautiful beaches, Naxos is one of the best Greek islands and the largest island of Cyclades.

 

Naxos is an ideal choice if you want to escape the crowds. This island of cyclades is one of the best preserved from mass tourism. Among the top things to do on the island of Naxos do not miss to enjoy a relaxing day on Plaka beach, a visit to the old town of Naxos and the Temple of Apollo.

 

The easiest way to reach Naxos is to book your flights to Athens and take a domestic flight to Naxos Airport. There are flights every day and they last 30 minutes. You can also take the ferry from the port of Athens (Piraeus), the duration of the crossing is 5 hours.

 

Book your flights to Naxos, your accommodation at the best price guaranteed and your tours and activities in Naxos, such as a day cruise to the south coastline of Naxos; you will be saling on-board a beautiful traditional wooden boat. 

 

 How to get there: Book your direct flights to Naxos Airport or via Athens (30 minutes).

 

 Where to stay: For its zen and purified decor and its rooms with terraces and sea views, we recommend the "Portara Seaside Luxury Suites".

 


Best Greek Islands - Cameo Island
Copyright Andrew Mayovskyy

14. Cameo Island

Zakynthos

This tiny island, located north of Zakynthos Island, just 15 minutes drive from Zakynthos Airport is a true paradise on earth. The island is private with an entrance fee that includes a free drink. Enjoy the sun, the enless sea and crystal clear waters, you are on holiday now!

 

Staying overnight on this tiny island is not possible as it is sometimes fully booked for weddings. Anyway the whole island of Zakynthos is worth the trip and will amaze you with the beauty of its landscapes and its paradisiacal beaches.

 

Book your flights to Zakynthos, your hotel or apartment at the best price guaranteed and your best tours and activities on Zakynthos Island.

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Zakynthos Airport (located 15 min from Port Sostis facing Cameo Island).

 

Where to stay: "Porto Koukla Beach" offers direct access to the sandy beach of Porto Koukla.  

 


Best Greek Islands - Crete
Copyright Photoff

15. Crete

Chania is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Crete and Crete is considered one of the Best Greek Islands. Part of the city was destroyed during the Second World War but much of the historic centre is intact and full of charm.

 

Some travellers still think it is the capital of Crete. In fact, Heraklion became the capital of Crete in 1971.

 

Come visit the city where the Greek singer Nana Mouskouri was born and book your flights to Chania or Heraklion airport, your accommodation at the best price in Chania and your tours and activities in Crete such as a trip to Elafonisi Island from Chania .Plan to spend an afternoon exploring the pink sand beaches.

 

How to get there:  Book your flights to Chania and join the historic centre by car or taxi (20 min).

 

Where to stay:  "1924 Suites". Stay in the heart of Chania. The apartment offers a terrace with amazing views.

 


 

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