Greece has over 200 inhabited islands – and no, they’re not all the same. Some are all about lazy beach days, others pull you into ancient myths or hiking trails with sea views. The Greek islands are wildly diverse, and that’s what makes picking the best ones so tricky. Here’s where to start.
If you’re planning a trip to Greece, it’s tempting to stick to what you’ve seen on postcards – Santorini sunsets, Mykonos beach clubs, and that’s about it. But Greece is full of surprises, and its islands are where the real magic happens. With landscapes ranging from pine-covered peaks to volcanic cliffs, and vibes that swing from sleepy fishing village to full-blown party, the Greek islands are anything but one-size-fits-all.
This list pulls together the best places to visit in Greece if you’re after island time that’s worth the effort – whether you’re into ruins, road trips, windswept hikes, or beaches you can (sometimes) have to yourself. Some of these islands are famous for a reason. Others fly way under the radar. All of them are worth considering when building your Greece itinerary.
Don’t just go where everyone else goes. Go where it actually feels good to be.
Agios Prokopios beach, Naxos island, Greece Cyclades © Shutterstock
As Greece’s largest island, Crete is something of an all-rounder. Crete boasts the dramatic White Mountains, kilometres of fine beaches, the delightful Samaria Gorge and several interesting cities, not least the island capital of Iraklion. For anyone interested in archaeology, however, it’s the obvious place to combine the joys of an island with a variety of ancient remains to rival the mainland.
Just 3 miles (5km) outside of Iraklion lies Knossos, the island’s preeminent ancient site, with its grand, second-millennium BC Minoan palace, where King Minos once kept the legendary Minotaur. This is easily one of the best things to do in Crete. The layout of the interconnected halls and rooms is truly labyrinthine and much of the palace amazingly well preserved.
Other star Minoan attractions near the south coast are the Palace of Phaestos, which enjoys a splendid hillside location and view of Mount Psiloritis, and the smaller remains at Ayia Triada.
In the same region, the ruined capital of a Roman province that encompassed Crete and a chunk of north Africa can be seen at Gortys. Further afield the Dhiktean Cave and Palace of Zakros are yet more ancient sites to be enjoyed.
Crete’s appeal doesn’t stop at ancient ruins. If you’re after sea and sand, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Crete scattered across the island, from the pink-tinged sands of Elafonisi to the palm-lined cove of Preveli. As for the best areas to stay in Crete, consider Chania for charm, Rethymno for a mix of old and new, or Agios Nikolaos for laid-back coastal vibes.
A fine fresco in Knossos Palace, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock
Milos flies under the radar compared to other Cycladic islands – but ask any beach lover and they’ll tell you it’s home to some of the best beaches in Greece. Thanks to its volcanic origins and horseshoe shape, Milos squeezes in around 75 beaches, despite being just 12 miles across.
Outside the August rush, Milos stays laid-back, with a solid mix of places to eat and sleep. On the south coast, sandy Paleohóri is a standout – naturally warmed by underground thermal currents and connected to a second cove via a tunnel in the rock. The colorful cliffs here look like they were painted by hand.
Up north, the headland around Adhámas and Plaka is dotted with coves. Pollonia, in the northeast, offers a long, tamarisk-shaded beach ideal for lazy afternoons. For real beach purity, though, head west. It’s wild, rugged, and mostly untouched. Triadhes, Ammoudharaki, and Kleftiko – only reachable by boat – deliver the serious wow factor.
Sarakiniko beach on the beautiful island of Milos - one of the best Greek islands © leoks/Shutterstock
Tiny Pátmos punches well above its weight when it comes to spiritual clout. This is where St John received the visions that became the Book of Revelation, dictated to his disciple Prohoros from a cave on the island.
Go early in the morning to visit that cave, now part of an eleventh-century chapel. You’ll have the best shot at some quiet reflection and might even snag the niche where the saint supposedly rested his head. The sea views from here are enough to stir something in even the most hardened skeptic.
Climb higher to reach the Monastery of Ayiou Ioannou Theologou, another eleventh-century structure that still houses a community of monks. While much of the monastery is off-limits, the main church is richly decorated and well worth a look. The museum adds more depth, with glittering Orthodox relics, medieval icons, and fragile parchment manuscripts.
And when you’re done soul-searching, head back to sea level. Pátmos also offers sandy beaches and a relaxed vibe that make it more than just a pilgrimage stop.
Monastery St. John, Patmos Island, Greece © leoks/Shutterstock
Mid-sized Lefkada has one of Europe’s largest windsurfing centres (near its southern tip) and a gleaming new marina on the edge of the island capital. This makes it one of the best Greek islands for those who love to spend time on the water. It also boasts easy accessibility, being joined to the mainland by a causeway.
Look out for dramatic mountain scenery and a few of the most stunning beaches in the Ionian Sea on its west coast. In addition, Lefkada Town is an attractive and cultural place, with some fine old churches.
Yachties flock here for the great facilities at the marina, the large dry dock at Vlyho and the ease of mooring at the various bays on the east coast, such as Dessimi, Rouda and Syvota. The satellite islands opposite the main resort of Nydri constitute good sailing territory too, while Nydri itself offers the usual range of watersports.
Meanwhile, at Lefkada’s southern end, the bay that stretches from Vassiliki to Pondi draws a youthful crowd. They take advantage of the favourable wind patterns and shallow water that are ideal for windsurfing. At any one time, you might count literally hundreds of colourful sails flapping in the breeze.
Lefkada island, Ionian Sea, Greece © Heracles Kritikos/Shutterstock
Mid-sized Lefkada is a magnet for watersports fans – and with good reason. It’s home to one of Europe’s largest windsurfing hubs near its southern tip, plus a sleek modern marina right at the edge of Lefkada Town. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, it’s one of the best islands in Greece for anyone who wants easy access and full-throttle action on the water.
On the west coast, you’ll find some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Ionian and a few beaches that wouldn’t look out of place on a postcard. Lefkada Town itself has plenty of character, with elegant old churches and a low-key cultural buzz.
Yachties love this place. There’s a large dry dock at Vlyho, easy mooring in east coast bays like Dessimi, Rouda, and Syvota, and great sailing around the little islands near Nydri. Nydri also doubles as a watersports base, with everything from wakeboarding to parasailing.
But it’s down south, in the bay stretching from Vassiliki to Pondi, where the serious windsurfing happens. Shallow waters and reliable winds bring in a young, energetic crowd. Some days, the bay is a sea of bright sails flapping in the breeze – chaotic, colorful, and completely addictive.
Lesvos island, view of town Molyvos (Mithymna) with old castle above © leoks/Shutterstock
Skiathos may have monasteries, green hills, and a winding old town, but let’s be real – the beaches are the main event. With nearly 60 pale-sand stretches, it easily claims the best – and busiest – beaches in the Sporades.
The south and southeast coasts are a near-continuous strip of villas, hotels, minimarkets, and tavernas. While they haven’t ruined the scenery, they do make it hard to find anything distinctly Greek. If you’re after peace and a splash of authenticity, head north. You’ll need hiking boots or a 4WD, but you’ll be rewarded with open views, fewer crowds, and the odd crumbling chapel.
Skiathos Town is the island’s heart – a lively sprawl across a couple of hills. To the east, there’s the ferry harbor and new town; to the west, the old port and historic quarter climb the slope. The Boúrtzi peninsula between them is great for a wander – think cannons, ruined walls, and a sea-view café. It’s also home to a one-room maritime museum and an open-air theatre that hosts summer music and drama.
There aren’t many headline attractions, but don’t miss the Alexándros Papadiamántis Museum. It’s set in the former home of one of Greece’s most celebrated writers.
Lalaria beach, Skiathos, Greece © Shutterstock
Bigger, wilder, and greener than Skiathos, Skopelos has kept tourism at arm’s length – even after its starring role in Mamma Mia! sparked a boom. Thankfully, development here is low-key and in better taste.
The southwest coast is just as lush and cinematic as it looks on screen – pine forest meets olive groves, plum orchards, and a run of small, scenic cove beaches. Skópelos Town (Hóra) and Glóssa are the island’s two main settlements – both among the prettiest in the Sporades, with whitewashed houses stacked up on steep hillsides.
Skopelos is a walker’s island too. Head east of Skópelos Town for some of the best hikes – three historic monasteries (Metamórfosis, Evangelístrias, and Prodhrómou) sit tucked into the wooded slopes of Mount Paloúki. Near Glóssa, a beautiful 45-minute trail leads to the restored village of Palió Klíma, passing through Athéato (Mahalás) – the island’s oldest known settlement.
The beach in town isn’t much, but better options are close. Stáfylos is popular and ringed by hotels and guesthouses. Glystéri to the north is quieter and more rugged – just forest, pebbles, and clear water.
Skopelos island, Greece © Shutterstock\
Zákynthos (also known as Zante), the southernmost of the main Ionian islands, is split between wild beauty and tourist-heavy beach hubs. While parts of the island have been heavily commercialized, much of it remains green, scenic, and relaxed – making it one of the best Greek islands to visit with family.
Laganás Bay in the south is the big resort – a full-throttle, 24-hour party zone in summer. It’s not for everyone, but it’s easy to avoid. Family-friendly resorts can be found north and south of Zákynthos Town, with smaller crowds and quieter beaches. For laid-back days, head to the Vassilikós peninsula, where you’ll find olive groves, some of Zakynthos’ best beaches, and the gentle curve of Yérakas – ideal for kids and sea turtles alike.
Zákynthos still holds on to its roots. Local wines like the crisp white Popolaro are worth trying, as is mandoláto – a honey-sweetened nougat that’s dangerously addictive.
Zákynthos Town (or Zante Town) stretches along a busy harbourfront. The northern end centers on Platía Solomoú, a recently revamped main square. To the south, the church of Áyios Dhionýsios – the island’s patron saint – draws pilgrims and sightseers alike.
Navagio beach with shipwreck and motorboat on Zakynthos island in Greece © Samot/Shutterstock
Sérifos has stayed well off the radar – and that’s a big part of its charm. From a distance, it looks barren and empty, with a rocky coastline and hilly interior. But as the ferry curves into Livádhi Bay, the island reveals its softer side – whitewashed houses, a tucked-away harbor, and beaches that feel like secrets.
This is one of the best islands in Greece for a calm stay. Walkers especially love it – the island is crisscrossed with old footpaths that lead to sleepy inland villages, remote coves, and stretches of sand with nobody on them. Many locals still raise livestock and make their own rustic, reddish wines – not for everyone, but authentic as it gets.
Most visitors base themselves in Livádhi, the port town curled around a green-fringed bay. It’s central, scenic, and ideal for beach-hopping. The main beach, Avlómonas, offers calm water and a view back to the hilltop capital – perfect for a lazy swim with a dramatic backdrop. Cross the southern headland and you’ll reach Livadhákia, a golden-sand beach shaded by tamarisks. Keep going for ten more minutes and you’ll find Karávi – smaller, unshaded, and beautifully clear.
Windmills of Greece. Serifos island, Cyclades © Shutterstock
Náxos is the largest – and arguably the most self-sufficient – of the Cyclades. Green, mountainous, and fertile, it stands out from its more barren neighbors. In fact, the island could easily survive without tourists, thanks to its production of potatoes, olives, cheese, lemons, and grapes. But tourism has landed here in full force – parts of Náxos now buzz almost as much as Páros during the peak months.
Still, the island offers plenty beyond the beach resorts. Hike into the central valleys, climb the Cyclades’ highest peak, or explore the wild north coast. The southwest shoreline is where you’ll find long, sandy beaches and warm, shallow waters – ideal for families or anyone craving a proper beach day. Local products shine here too: look for the island’s cheese and wines, or try kítron, a sweet liqueur distilled from citrus leaves and sold in green, yellow, or clear versions depending on how strong and sugary you want it.
As you sail into Náxos Town, the kástro – a fortified Venetian district – towers above the waterfront. The port may seem like the center of everything, but dig deeper. Náxos Town is laced with narrow alleys and arched passageways climbing through the Boúrgos old quarter up to the kástro. South of the port, the town spreads around Platía Evripéous, where tavernas, cafés, and local shops hum late into the night.
Naxos island in Greece, Cyclades © Shutterstock
Rhodes (Ródhos) earns its place among the best Greek islands – especially if you’re into history, beaches, and road trips with a view. Its standout feature is the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town in Rhodes Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-kept medieval enclaves in Europe. It's one of the best things to do in Rhodes because it still feels like a real village – lived in, not polished up just for tourists.
Further down the east coast, Líndhos is a showstopper. Whitewashed houses tumble down a hillside below an ancient acropolis, with two perfect beaches curving around the bay. It’s touristy, sure – but also stunning.
The long eastern shoreline is dotted with sandy beaches, while the southern tip of the island offers one of Europe’s top windsurfing spots at Prassoníssi. When the crowds wear thin, head inland. Rhodes has a rugged, partly forested interior hiding castles at Monólithos and Kritinía, plus beautiful frescoed churches at Thárri, Asklipió, and Áyios Yeóryios Várdhas.
View at Lindou Bay from Lindos Rhodes island, Greece © Shutterstock
Corfu (Kérkyra) hangs between Italy’s heel and mainland Greece – green, mountainous, and packed with character. One of the first Greek islands to go big with tourism in the 1960s, parts of it took a hit. But despite the scars, a surprising amount of the island remains wild and lush – all olive groves, forests, and hills.
Most package tourism sticks to the busiest beach resorts. But head just a little inland or along quieter stretches of coast and you’ll find traditional villages, untouched coves, and walking trails threading through shady groves. Some of the best areas to stay in Corfu include the stylish old streets of Corfu Town, the family-friendly beaches of Paleokastritsa, and the laid-back bays of the northeast coast – all offering a very different island experience.
Corfu Town is one of Greece’s most elegant island capitals. Despite wartime damage, it still has two imposing Venetian forts, the sixteenth-century church of Áyios Spyrídhon, and a scattering of buildings left behind by the French and British. Stroll its arcaded streets, hit a café in the Spianáda square, and don’t miss the views from Kanóni hill.
From here, take the short causeway to the tiny white convent of Vlahérna – easily one of the best things to do in Corfu. Just beyond lies Pondikoníssi, a tree-covered islet tied to Homeric legend. Supposedly, this was once a ship from Odysseus’s fleet, turned to stone by an angry Poseidon.
Idyllic Agios Stefanos on the Greek island of Corfu,© Shutterstock
Amorgos doesn’t hand itself over easily – and that’s a big part of the appeal. It’s rugged, raw, and full of edge, with steep cliffs dropping into ink-blue sea and trails crisscrossing wild hillsides. This is the island that made the backdrop for The Big Blue, and yes – it really does look like that.
The island’s heart is its hiking paths. Ancient footpaths link whitewashed villages, remote coves, and cliff-hugging monasteries like Hozoviótissa – a gravity-defying building clinging to the rock face. The capital, Hóra, is a beauty: narrow alleys, crumbling windmills, and a sleepy charm that doesn’t feel staged.
Beaches are mostly pebble or coarse sand, but the water is unreal – deep, clear, and calm. Try Agia Anna (where The Big Blue was filmed), Mouros, or the long curve of Aegiali Bay.
Hydra island, Greece © Shutterstock
Hydra isn’t like the others. For starters – no cars. Transport here means donkey, water taxi, or your own two feet. That alone sets the tone: calm, clean, and timeless. The harbor is ridiculously picturesque – a crescent of stone mansions, artist studios, and bobbing sailboats.
It’s long been a magnet for artists and writers – Leonard Cohen lived here – and the creative energy is still strong. Wander cobbled alleys, sip coffee by the sea, and pop into the town’s low-key galleries. There are no big beaches, but you’ll find plenty of rocky swimming spots – Spilia and Vlychos are favorites.
How to get to Hydra
Avlemonas beach at the Greek island of Kythira © Shutterstock
Kythira is a wildcard – technically Ionian, but floating off the southern Peloponnese, far from the usual island circuits. It doesn’t slot neatly into a regional box, and that’s part of the magic. What you get here is waterfalls, gorges, hidden coves, and a strong dose of mystery – plus a rich mix of influences from Venice, Byzantium, and beyond.
This is a place for explorers. There’s no single "must-see" sight – instead, it’s all about discovering crumbling castles, villages frozen in time, and walking trails that dip through olive groves and tumble into the sea. The beach at Kaladi is a standout, but you’ll find dozens more, often with no one else around.
Chóra is elegant and hushed, with a hilltop Venetian kástro and a laid-back charm that’s hard to pin down. Villages like Mylopotamos and Avlemonas feel like they belong to another era. And because tourism never quite took off here, the island still feels wonderfully Greek – lived-in, local, and under the radar.
written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 09.06.2025
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