Greece asks travelers from different parts of the world to visit its beautiful islands characterized by warm sunny, clean sandy beaches on deep blue seas apart from rich culture. Each destination mixes natural landscapes with historical experiences. The Cyclades, a group of islands that are internationally known, are the center of attraction leading to Dodecanese popular territories followed by distant Ionian green series. Greece has plenty of places that are worth visiting.
In today’s blog post, we are going to answer your biggest query that which islands to visit in Greece. We are about to take a look at the twelve Best Greek islands to visit. Every single island on this list is a symbol of an unbelievable and unique Greek attraction and appeal, from popular Santorini or Mykonos to less known but still extremely beautiful ones like Kastellorizo or Amorgos.
These islands have something magical for every traveler from exploring ancient ruins, separate Mediterranean beaches on which you can sunbathe, and Greek cuisine which is original. Let’s uncover the unexplored treasures of some enchanting popular islands to visit in Greece that will make your next Mediterranean adventure memorable.
Here is the list of Top 10 Islands to Visit in Greece :
- Hydra
- Cephalonia
- Paros Island
- The Northeast Aegean Islands
- Zakynthos
- Amorgos
- Ithaca
- Patmos
- Rhodes
- Kastellorizo
Table of Contents
Islands to Visit in Greece
Hydra
This is one of the most popular islands in Greece. You are gonna experience some of the best feelings of your life at this destination. If you want to be at some of the best places to visit in Greece then this is the best option. I am sure you are excited to be at this place. Hydra is a wonderful island found in the Saronic Gulf. The island will capture every visitor using its peaceful atmosphere as well as having such a beautiful harbor to view.
These make it different from other islands due to the fact that there are no cars allowed on it and this ensures that it remains quiet all time long. Donkeys and ships form means of transportation there. There are numerous options to select from at Hydra because this place has a lot to offer. If you love to spend time at some of the most exotic islands in the world then this is perhaps the best choice. There are so many things that you can explore at this destination.
The Hydra is one of the most famous towns on the island. It is one of the best island for first trip to Greece. It has narrow paved roads with beautiful stone buildings on each side and art galleries as well as shops. You can visit the Historical Archives Museum, view art shows around town, or taste Greek dishes at the seaside taverns.
Hydra town beaches like Vlychos, Kaminia, and Bisti beaches are famous for their crystal-clear waters and pebbled shores. You can enjoy the panoramic view that is beyond your expectations while taking a walk in the Monastery of Prophet Elias. You cannot miss this place as it has a rich historical background and artistic view. The spectacular views that this place offers has a lot to be explained about. This place is significant in all terms.
Also Read: Beaches to Visit in Greece
Cephalonia
Next island that you should not miss in Greece is Kefalonia. This is one of the most frequented islands in Greece. The stunning landscapes, rich history, and serene beaches of Cephalonia captivate travelers. A mixture of cultural heritage and natural beauty characterizes the place. Myrtos Beach, which has turquoise water that dazzles people like nothing else can do combined with steep rocks is among the most famous beaches in Greece for good reason mainly because it has been made so by its dazzling turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.
A breathtaking lake with clear blue water lies inside Melissani Cave. You can also visit Melissani Cave using a boat in order to make the experience more enjoyable. Assos Village is a historic fishing community in Albania situated along the shores of Assos Peninsula. The high walls around the village create an interior that is warm and brilliant.
Green vegetation all around and the small bay beneath assure а peace and quiet. Do not miss the opportunity to see а little piece of real Turkish culture where everything is soaked in cultural music pouring out from the narrow streets, tables are set in front of simple coffeehouses that are ages old.
Cephalonia’s idyllic destination is perfect for adventure lovers and those who are interested in enjoying nature with its dense forests, mountain paths, and clean sandy beaches. It is the place where everyone visiting will have a lifetime experience as the natural charm combines seamlessly with tradition in Greece.
This is one of the most popular places to visit in Greece. There are many different places to visit over here. You are gonna have some of the best moments of your life at Cephalonia. You are gonna find some of the best moments of your life at this destination.
Paros Island
Paros is located in the Aegean Sea as a classic Cycladic island with beautiful villages, golden beaches, as well as dynamic nocturnal activities especially good for youth tourists. It also comes in the list of the cheapest island to visit in Greece. Parikia is the metropolitan city hosting the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani which is also a tourist attraction.
It is magnificent and has a lively port. Naousa is another beautiful fishing village boasting narrow streets that host lots of clubs where you can grab drinks at any time before indulging yourself in some sumptuous seafood. This is a blend of old-fashioned and new styles common with this place. Paros island is one of the most amazing destinations to visit in Greece. If you are planning to visit Greece then this is one of the best destinations to be at.
There are numerous attractive points that you should not miss over here. Being one of the most significant destinations in Greece, this place is loved by many and any lover of some of the most exotic destinations existing worldwide.
Golden Beach is famous for windsurfing and kiteboarding, it has golden sand and the water is crystal clear. Paros is well-placed at the center of different sailing routes across the Aegean Sea which allow people who travel through them to visit other nearby islands. Its welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery,
Paros stands out as one of the best islands to visit in Greece with family. There are several activities that you are gonna enjoy at this destination. If you are wishing to be at some of the most exotic places in the world then this is a stupendous choice.
The Northeast Aegean Islands
The Northeastern Aegean Islands are less touristic yet equally fascinating. There are some places among them that are distinct like the Lesbos with its abundance of olive trees, hot water springs, and medieval citadel Mytilene in its big port city. Chios is renowned for the gum mastic produced only in this particular area and not elsewhere in the world resembling something between resin and rubber.
It is also known for its old walled townships, Mesta and Pyrgi which have peculiar architectural forms like circles or diamonds carved into the facades’ plaster layer. Samos, where a famous mathematician lived, has preserved his grave so far in forests and green surrounding it. The Northeast Aegean islands are truly popular all around the world for its great naturally rich appearance.
With a combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and traditional charm, these islands offer a serene escape where you are able to visit ancient monasteries as well as taste local food specialties or simply lie on secluded sandy beaches to have peace. When you go there, it’s like no other place because they don’t even have many people around which is why some call them Northeast Aegean Islands.
Also Read: Adventure Parks in Greece
Zakynthos
Zakynthos is a paradise in the Sea of Ionian because it is famous for its amazing natural beauty and for its exciting nightlife. There is an attraction located at Navagio Beach which is also referred to as Shipwreck Beach making Nakayama even more interesting. It can be a place where no human appears on foot but only through water. Shipwrecks are common around the world but one that belongs to the Panagiotis has never stood out due to its old age since it sticks right there at the seashore with clear mammals at their bottom.
Another creation of nature is the Blue Caves in which the blue water creates stunning sights. Zakynthos is a vital place for the Caretta marine turtles which are under the threat of extinction. Another natural wonder is the ‘Blue Caves’ where azure waters form dazzling reflections.Villages like Bochali and island-like Zante are always there to give an adventurous touch with relaxation on the islands. An unforgettable experience of Greek island vacation awaits you at Zakynthos, whether cave diving, eating local delicacies or just chilling on the beach.
Amorgos
Amorgos is one of the islands located in the Cyclades archipelago.it is one of the nicest island to visit in Greece. It attracts tourists because of its undulating terrain, sea depths that can be overlooked, and its rich cultural past. This island is famous worldwide because it is where the film known as “The Big Blue” was shot. It is Perched atop an overhang above the Aegean Sea, Monastery Hozoviotissa is an exquisite sight to behold with its panoramic view also giving insights into spiritualism on this island.
There are charming harbours in Amorgos like Aegiali and Katapola. where tourists can visit typical Greek restaurants, wonderful sandy shores, and quiet surroundings. Apart from that Amorgos is also a destination for trekkers, it has many wonderful paths winding their way in between old artifacts as well as pleasing landscapes.
Ithaca
Ithaca in Greece is a nice destination famous for tales of Odysseus. It’s a small island known for its untouched nature, as well as clean beaches and old localities. Here the main town of Gaios greets tourists with its attractive port that has many hotels next to it while traditional cafes line the narrow streets in the town’s bright houses.
To explore Ithaca is to discover hidden coves such as Filatro Beach where swimming is perfect because of clear water. Anogi stands as a beautiful village within the mountains which reflects ancient times on this island through medieval castle ruins alongside Monastery Kathara. Whether strolling along olive groves or through vineyards or just sitting quietly among trees. It is one of the peculiar islands of Greece which you can never forget.
Also Read: Honeymoon Destinations in Greece
Patmos
Patmos is also known as the “Island of the Apocalypse. This island is a spiritual heaven filled with religious history. It is considered to be the place where Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation in the Cave of the Apocalypse. Monastery of Saint John Theologian is situated in Chora giving more importance to the island as a pilgrimage since it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
While in Patmos, you will experience not only spiritual growth but also serene bays with classic Greek homes painted white, narrow stone-paved paths among them, or spotless sandy coastlines. Skala, the capital city where ships anchor to connect mainland Greece as well as other islands such as Patmos.
Patmos is famous for its coffee houses serving seafood freshly caught in the sea and authentic dishes cooked by locals. People looking forward to meditating in peace spiritually while at the same time having a taste of real Greece find it worth visiting due to its unbelievable silence together with a lot of history involved.
Rhodes
Rhodes is unique to the other Dodecanese islands in Greece because of its size. There is no doubt that ancient Rhodes has significant historical value shown through its spectacular Old Town famous for its antique walls that are now classified as World Heritage since being declared by UNESCO. This castle has The Palace of the Grand Master.
You can find beautiful coastlines in Rhodes like Faliraki and Lindos. which has got its symbolic Acropolis that looks out onto the blue abyss. Lindos is itself a lovely village with pure white houses way down toward the sea.
Rhodes has a lot to offer tourists. Old buildings can be found that date back really far in history, young people can have fun because it’s never boring, rollers around. There is truly something interesting for everyone with the addition of castles from Middle Ages situated between sea sports facilities. after visiting this warm sunny place you will find that it has much more than just beautiful shores snuggling on all sides by crystal clear waters. Many different civilizations left their mark on these lands over centuries of occupation.
Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo, the easternmost island in Greece, welcomes guests with serene landscapes and a past full of events. In Megisti Town’s beautiful harbor, you find quaint neo-classical colored homes that embellish this small Dodecanese isle. It is widely known for its transparent seas which are excellent for diving. This place is the notable site of The Blue Caves whose blue coloration captures everyone’s imagination.
You can Feel free to roam around Megisti’s narrow streets. You can explore the age-old Lycian Tombs hewn from the cliffs and experience the taste of freshly cooked seafood from any of the local tavernas. Kastellorizo is such a serene island that invites you to take time out from the usual holiday crowd noise, allowing its visitors to bask in the real spirit of a Greek far-off island. Kastellorizo island provides a peaceful quality where visitors can return home assured of having a wonderful memory along with its remarkable easternmost end of Greek scenery.
Also Read: Adventure Activities to do in Greece
Conclusion
The Islands of Greece comprise a rich tapestry of natural beauty, historical depth, and exclusive cultural moments, which arrest visitors worldwide. If one is after a bustle of Mykonos, a mystery of history in Rhodes, or serenity with which no other place can compare. they all offer unique memories therein as well as pride connecting these places with their past You can discover its own unique charm as each island calls on you to visit whether exploring ancient ruins, lying on white sandy beaches, or getting lost in local customs.
You will end your stay in Greece longing to return to this enchanting part of the Mediterranean with unforgettable memories regardless of the islands you opt to visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the nicest island to visit in Greece?
Amorgos is one of the nicest islands to visit in Greece.
2. Which island is best for first trip to Greece?
Crete is best for the first trip to Greece.
3. What are the 5 most popular Greek islands?
Hydra, Paros, Milos, Zakynthos, and Crete are the 5 most popular Greek islands.
4. What are the best two islands to visit in Greece?
Mykonos and Santorini are the best two islands to visit in Greece.
5. What is the cheapest way to island hop in Greece?
The cheapest way to hop on Greece Island is by ferry.
6. Which Greek island is more expensive?
Mykonos Island is an expensive island in Greece.
7. What is the safest Greek island?
Santorini is one of the safest Greek islands.