In partnership with Visit Greece
Which Greek islands are the best to visit?
All of them? Joking aside, that’s a bit of an impossible question to answer. With 6000 islands to choose from – only 227 of which are inhabited – there’s enough secluded beaches, ancient history, simply epic food, dramatic nature, charming towns (and people) to fill a lifetime of travels.
But if you think of what you’re in the mood for, it becomes easier. Like picking your favourite rom com – which, let’s face it, is probably Mamma Mia – instead of your favourite movie. That’s why we’ve chosen some champions to represent the many Greek island holiday possibilities – from adventure hiking to wine and dining – and to give you a sense of the wonder they have to offer.
Ready? Let’s get started on this bucket list odyssey:
Skiathos, Sporades – for the picture perfect beach
Would you like to gape at the gorgeous stone arches in the sea at Lalaria Beach, a place so beautiful it would make Aphrodite blush? Or breathe in fresh pine and salty air, nestled between forest and sea at Koukounaries – one of the top 5 beaches in the Mediterranean? With 60 seaside paradises to choose from, Skiathos is one the best Greek islands for beaches – and for a summer vacation.
The highlights:
- Take a boat to tucked away Lalaria Beach
- Explore the Bourtzi fortress on the waterfront, and the Chora’s old town
- Dive and see a shipwreck up close
How to get to Skiathos: Despite its secluded vibe, you can reach Skiathos by flights from the UK. There are also ferry connections to other Sporades islands – we’d recommend a trip to marine paradise Alonissos.
Santorini, Cyclades Islands – for the non-platonic romantics
This is the Greek island many have fallen in love without even being there. Looking at the heartbreakingly beautiful white walls, blue domes and clifftop views of Oia, it’s easy to see why. This Cyclades island has a great food and wine offering – great for watching the famed Santorini sunset together with the person you love. The next day, you can explore volcanic beaches of all colours – gold, red black.
The highlights:
- Go to the dark side of sea and sun at Perissa Black Sand Beach
- Watch the sun set over Santorini and the caldera (preferably while sipping a great wine)
- Soak in the sights on the scenic 9 km Fira-Oia hike
How to get to Santorini: Can’t bear the longing any longer? All you have to do is hop on a plane to Santorini Airport – there are flights from London, Manchester, Edinburgh and many more.
Crete – for those who want history (and food) on a grand scale
Like city getaways? How about Knossos, a 9000 year old Bronze Age city considered to be the oldest in Europe? It’s in this complex – just 3 miles from Iraklion – that you’ll find the legendary Knossos Minoan Palace. Greece’s largest island has its fair share of sunny beaches, but food is where it truly shines. The best example of Cretan cuisine’s focus on simplicity and fresh ingredients has to be dakos, a moreish mountain of dried barley bread, crushed fresh tomato, mizithra cheese and olive oil. You could dedicate a whole trip to exploring the tavernas dotting Crete, indulging in slow-cooked lamb, grilled octopus and white taramasalata.
The highlights:
- Shell out for Crete’s signature snail dishes
- Go off the beaten track to see eye-opening natural wonders at Samaria Gorge and the Elafonissi lagoon (best reached from Chania on the west of Crete)
- Travel back in time at Knossos, one of the major Greek archaeological sites
How to get to Crete: The island has two main airports, Iraklio and Chania – if your main focus is the historical and cultural side of Crete, Iraklio is probably the best bet. For nature, Chania might be the better choice.
Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands – for a place where culture is in full bloom
You don’t need to be a Rhodes scholar to study the wonders of Rhodes. Just hop on a flight to this Greek island and you’ll land in the middle of a place that’s home to millenia of culture, from ancient Greek wonders like the Colossus to medieval relics courtesy of the Knights of the Templar. In fact, the entire old town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Site. Yet despite all this history, as a student town, Rhodes also has a young spirit too – and the nightlife to match.
The highlights:
- Take a tour of Kritinia, a 16th century Venetian fort, and the sea-facing Lindos Acropolis.
- Spend a day relaxing on the quiet, golden sands and clear waters of Agtathi Beach.
- Get lost in the narrow, nameless streets of the Old Town.
How to get to Rhodes: Struggle to find a connection you will not – Rhodes can be reached with flights from 16 UK airports.
Chios – for those searching for a hidden gem
When talking about the best Greek islands to visit, this pearl of a destination tends to be overlooked – even though it’s the fifth biggest Aegean island. Well, other people’s loss is your gain. This hidden gem is a festival for the senses, what with the fragrant flavours of mastic gum (obtained from Chios’ one-of-a-kind, UNESCO-verified mastic trees), citrus aromas and the delicate designs of Pyrgi and Nea Moni Monastery.
The highlights:
- Admire the pretty patterns on the building facades in Pyrgi village
- Develop a taste for the aromatic mastic gum, which graces everything from pastries to liquor
- Pay your respects at one of Greece’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nea Moni Monastery
How to get to Chios: Chios can be reached by air via flights from Athens or Thessaloniki. There’s daily flights, and it takes only an hour. Good to know if you’ve got it in your mind to try and find a last minute flight deal!
Kalymnos, Dodecanese Islands – for serious adventurers
If sitting back is not your thing, move on to Kalymnos. This Greek island is a renowned destination for rock climbing, with nearly 4000 routes to choose from for every level of experience. Many offer amazing Aegean views, like the natural rock window of Grande Grotta. To be on the safe side, however, we’d recommend consulting an experienced guide first. You can also go from stunning heights to new depths by diving underwater to explore the island’s famous sponges.
The highlights:
- After a day of adventure, replenish yourself with fresh seafood at the harbor tavernas in Pothia
- Take a calm day trip to neighbouring Telendos
- In between dives and climbs, take time to relax at Kantouni Beach
How to get to Kalymnos: You can fly to Kos and then take a ferry. Or, from Athens, you can fly in. You can also, if you want, take a seven and a half hour ferry from Piraeus.
Thassos – for a luxurious, boutique holiday feel
Olive groves, marble quarries, pine forests and pretty beaches. Sounds like a checklist for a luxurious getaway in the Greek islands, doesn’t it? And it’s exactly what Thassos has to offer. Yet somehow, Thassos hasn’t made it onto the list of Greek islands to visit for many. The main attraction is Giola lagoon, a pool by the seaside. But its many beaches are what will fill the rest of your days, from Golden Beach and its green hill views to tucked away and wind-free Alyki Beach, which also happens to be near an archeological site.
The highlights:
- Swim in a infinity pool made of rock by the sea at Giola lagoon – or at one of Thassos’ many blissful beaches
- Visit the picturesque Monastery of Archangel Michael, perched on a cliff with a view of the Aegean
- Taste Thassos’ fine olive oil and dishes like pitarakia – a light, tasty courgette fritter
How to get to Thassos: This is one of the Greek islands you’ll need to visit by ferry. The best option is to fly to Kavala International Airport, and drive 15 minutes to Keramoti. From there, the ferries will take you the capital of Thassos, Limenas, in around half an hour. You could also fly to Thessaloniki, and add a 2 hour drive to your schedule.
Mykonos, Cyclades Islands – for a party that never stops
Night time is the right time at Mykonos, the best Greek island to visit for partying – and arguably the most LGBT-friendly one too. Start out with one of the seaside restaurants near the colourful houses of Little Venice, then move onto the many bars and clubs. For example, Super Paradise Beach Club, where the party is already underway in the afternoon. The next day, once you’re able to wake up, you can stroll through the whitewashed streets of Mykonos Town… then nap (and tan) on Paraga Beach.
The highlights:
- Swim and soak up sun by day, sweat and dance to world-class DJs by night at Mykonos’ famous beach clubs
- Try out windsurfing at Kalafatis
- Stroll around the well-preserved, Instagram-friendly streets of Mykonos town and see the powder-white walls of Paraportiani Church
How to get to Mykonos: There’s direct easyJet flights from London that will get you there in time to shower, get ready and go out – and flights from Manchester too. You can also sit back on a six hour ferry from Piraeus.
Corfu, Ionian Islands – for an all-round wonder (is)land
If you could only visit one Greek island in your whole life – and what a sad world that would be – the incredibly versatile Corfu would make for a pretty good choice. Its old Venetian town is among Greece’s UNESCO heritage sites. It’s known as where Jason and the Argoanuts hid away after taking the Golden Fleece. Its home to millions of olive trees. Oh, and it offers beaches where you can relax in the shadow of said olive trees. See? Corfu really has a bit of everything.
The highlights:
- Explore the abandoned town of Old Perithia – and the wild fruit trees, vineyards and Venetian ruins around it.
- Take your pick of the 6 heavenly beaches of Paleokastritsa
- Find your way around the Venetian old town
How to get to Corfu: A popular destination from the UK, Corfu can be reached by direct flight from 16 different airports, from Aberdeen to Norwich. It’s also the perfect starting point for an Ionian Islands tour, with ferries to Paxos and Lefkada.
Aegina, Saronic Islands – for Greek island hopping within an hour of Athens
If you ask for insider tips for things to do in Athens, you’re likely to hear someone mention a Greek island. Which at first might surprise you at first, until you realise Aegina is only a 40 minute hydrofoil ride from the Port of Piraeus. A must-see is the Temple of Aphea Athena, which, together with the Parthenon and Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, forms a “holy triangle”. The island is also known for its pistachio trees, which naturally find their way into the island’s cuisine.
The highlights:
- Hop over to the other Saronic Islands like Hydra, the muse of artists like Chagall and Picasso, and Poros, full of pine trees, pretty houses, calm beaches and ideal for short getaways
- Look upon the grandeur of Saint Nektarios Monastery
- Walk and cycle across the island, and reward yourself with a swim at Vagia Beach
How to get to Aegina: Take the hydrofoil (Flying Dolphin, the blue and yellow one) to get there in 40 minutes. You can also go for the slightly cheaper ferries, but these will take 60-90 minutes.
Kefalonia, Ionian Islands – for film-like natural beauty and phenomenal wines
To say Kefalonia has movie star looks is not a just turn of phrase. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed here in Sami – minutes away from Melissani Cave, where you can take a rowboat across a lake encircled by rock, with sunrays beaming down through the crater above. Another highlight is the view from Mount Ainos. And where mountains meet lush green trees and the sea, you’ll find the Oscar-worthy, award-winning Myrtos Beach. Once you’ve done feasting your eyes, you can tantalise your taste buds. Kefalonia has some of the best wines of the Greek islands – the local Robola wine is a must try. So is the flaky cod pie.
The highlights:
- Walk the trails of Mount Ainos National Park, and Fiskardo
- Watch the sunset at Myrtos Beach – and get a view from above if you can
- Fall deeply in love with Melissani Cave, or explore the depths by scuba diving at Fiskardo
How to get to Kefalonia: You can fly direct from Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, London… you get the point – it’s well connected.
Amorgos, Cyclades Islands – for those who like a deep blue sea and towering beauty
You might know this hidden gem of the Cyclades Islands if you’re into your French films. Amorgos was featured heavily in 1988’s The Big Blue, starring Jean Reno, mainly due to its… deep blue waters (no brainer!) And the best place to get a view is the Hozoviotissa Monastery – a white structure carved into the cliffs themselves, and one of the most stunning holy places in Greece. The mountainous route you’ll take across the island to get here is, in of itself, a must do.
The highlights:
- Indulge in the beauty of Hozoviotissa Monastery, and the oh-so-pretty white houses of Amorgos town (Chora)
- Taste local delights like Xerotigana – fried pies filled with white beet and fennel
- Snorkel in the deep blue waters, or sit back at Ayia Anna Beach, where The Big Blue was shot
How to get to Amorgos: There’s no planes to Amorgos, which probably lends to its pristine beauty. However, if you look at a map of the Greek islands, you’ll see that the best way to get here is a ferry from Santorini or Athens.
Symi, Dodecanese Islands – for those who want more colour in their lives
This Dodecanese Island is well known for ship building and sponge diving. But you’ll want to come here to see the bright hues of yellow, red, blue and purple dotting the hilly main town on the coast. You’ll also want to take your time hiking across the mountains and valleys of the island. And if you love secluded beaches, you’re in for a treat – most of Symi’s crystal clear waters can be reached only by water taxi.
The highlights:
- Enjoy an ouzo at one of the tavernas on the coast – and try out Symi’s famous mini shrimp
- Make your way to Nos, Agios Georgios, Agios Nikolaos, Nanou, Marathounta or Faneromeni beach… any beach really
- Climb the 500 stone steps of Kali Strata to see the postcard-worthy town from above
How to get to Symi: Is as simple as a 45 minute ferry from Rhodes. Oh, and a flight to Rhodes before that.
Zakynthos (Zante), Ionian Islands – for storied beaches and a storied past
Navagio (a.k.a. Shipwreck Beach) is the most famous attraction of Zakynthos, and a perfect combination of all the the island has to offer. Turqoise waters, smooth and steep cliffs, bright tones of green… and sights that make you ask, “what’s the story here?” The Venetians may have called Zakynthos “The Flower of the East” due to its 7000 flower species, but modern Greeks know it for being the home of national poet Dionysios Solomos and his flourishing prose. Believe us when we say, no guide to the most beautiful Greek islands would be complete without Zakynthos.
The highlights:
- Visit the Solomos Museum – and the Byzantine Museum in Solomos Square – to immerse yourself in local culture and history
- In addition to famous Navagio, visit Laganas beach – it’s where the endangered loggerhead turtles lay their eggs
- Take a trip to the Venetian Castle, which stands where the Acropolis once did
How to get to Zakynthos: You can fly here from 13 different UK airports, or take the ferry from Kefalonia – another of the Greek islands in the Ionian worth visiting.
Kos, Dodecanese Islands – for a holiday that will heal your soul
One of the first Greek islands to make it onto to the map of travellers, Kos is the birthplace of Hippocrates (the guy who kickstarted modern medicine). Fittingly, it’s a perfect spot for a sunny break to revitalise yourself. On the south of the island, you can wade in the hot (and healing) thermal waters of the seaside rock pool at Therma Beach. Or you can bask on the sand next to remains of early Greek churches at Aghios Stephanos. Finally, you can visit the Asklepion Shrine – home of the Greek healing god, and the place where Hippocrates got his degree.
The highlights:
- Rejuvenate in the pool at Therma Beach, where hot springs meet cool sea water
- Visit the medieval settlement of Palio Pyli
- Explore the Ottoman quarter and end the day with fennel pie, fresh fish and proper tsípouro (or ouzo) at Pote tin Kyriaki – the name translates to “Never on Sundays”, and should give you an idea on opening times
How to get to Kos: There are direct flights from Birmingham, Glasgow, London and other UK airports. You can also fly (or take a ferry) from Athens.
Lefkada – for striking views and sea sports
This Ionian island, with its 24 islets and beaches worthy of gods and goddesses, is best known for its sea and sun. But it’s also a great Greek island to visit for those who don’t just want to tan or paddle about in the water – it’s a serious water sport destination. You’ll find windsurfing at Vasiliki Bay, kitesurfing in Myloi Beach, and paragliding over Kathisma Beach.
The highlights:
- Visit the protector of the island, the 15th century Castle of Agia Mavra
- Lounge and swim in the shadow of cliffs at Porto Katsiki
- Find some time to explore the Dimossari Waterfalls
How to get to Lefkada: Fun fact – thanks to the bridge connecting it to the mainland, Lefkada is the only Greek island you can get to by car. It’s a give or take 4 hour drive from Athens. You can also fly to Kefalonia, then take a ferry.
Naxos, Cyclades Islands – for those who want an even more exotic Greek island experience
When you visit a place known as “The Hawaii of Greece”, you know you’re in for a treat. Only 5 km from the main centre of this oft overlooked Cycladic Island, you’ll find Agios Prokopios, a 1.5 km long stretch of blue flag-awarded white sand and pale blue water. And that’s just one percent of all the beaches on offer in Naxos. It’s even got its own perfect photo frame thanks to Portara – the iconic, still-standing marble gate of an Apollo temple overlooking Naxos.
- Climb up to see the rectangular marble arch of Portara – or see the island from a thousand metres above at Mount Zas
- Visit a 6th century Byzantine monastery at Panagia Drosiani
- Get away to secluded Alyko or Plaka Beach
How to get to Naxos: International flights might be tricky, but there are flights from Athens. However, the best way in is likely a ferry from Mykonos or Santorini.
A practical question – which Greek islands have airports?
Just because they feel like paradise tucked away from the rest of the world, doesn’t mean they’re hard to get to. Here’s a list of the Greek islands you can fly most easily from the UK:
- Corfu
- Kos
- Lemnos
- Santorini
- Zakynthos
- Rhodes
- Kefalonia (Argostoli)
- Mykonos
- Crete
- Samos
- Chios
- Paros
- Karpathos
- Skiathos
While these are the best Greek islands to visit if you want a direct flight, the Port of Piraeus in Athens is also gateway to plenty of islands. This includes day-trip destinations like Hydra, or further flung stops like Milos.
