Explore the Best Greek Islands with iBestTravel
Every Greek island has its own personal rhythm and delight – it’s why they are such a thrilling destination to explore, no matter what type of vacation you desire.
While the trademark Greek warm welcome is present everywhere, the variety of terrain, culture, and natural wonders means that hikers, bikers, culture vultures, families, and every other type of sun-seeker will find their perfect island paradise here. Our guide to the best Greek islands will take all the stress out of planning your next trip.
Best Greek Islands for Sun, Sea, and Sand
Crete – Lipsi – Kefallonia – Skiathos – Mykonos
Almost every Greek isle boasts great beaches, but few come with a Venetian castle, like laid-back Frangokastello Beach in southern Crete. For lapping turquoise waters, try Platys Gialos on quiet Lipsi – its gradual slope into the water makes it very child-friendly. Moreover, there are few beaches more stunning than the cove at Myrtos Beach in Kefallonia – renowned among locals and visitors alike.
To see and be seen, take your pick from one of Skiathos’ 65 beaches. Find your perfect spot amidst the crowds at 1200m-long Koukounaries Beach or get an all-over tan on nudist-friendly Big Banana and Little Banana Beaches – both are hugely popular with the LGBTIQ+ community. If your preferred beach party is the one that never stops, then you can’t leave without visiting Paradise and Super Paradise beaches on decadent Mykonos.
Best Greek Islands for Diving and Snorkeling
Crete – Milos – Paros – Santorini
Much of Crete’s coastline is a paradise for snorkeling and diving; the sunken city of Olous near Elounda is a spectacular and relatively easy dive. On Milos, you can encounter deep-sea fish, dolphins, and even monk seals while diving.
Snorkeling is fantastic on Paros, and picturesque Santorini is renowned for its high visibility waters, as well as reefs teeming with life and several fascinating old shipwrecks to explore.
Best Greek Islands for Ancient Ruins, Myths, and Legends
Rhodes – Delos – Corfu – Patmos
Marvel at Rhodes’ magnificent, walled Old Town, where the Knights of St John ruled from 1309 to 1523. Explore their quarter before visiting the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters.
Tiny Delos, easily accessed via Mykonos, was the mythical birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis – visit ruins of shrines to the gods and explore mosaic-rich ancient dwellings. Overnight stays are not allowed, so be sure to keep an eye on the weather-dependent boat schedules.
After the peace and quiet of Delos, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Corfu’s Old Town, featuring narrow streets packed with lively bars, shops, and restaurants. The Old Town is flanked by two fortresses originally built to protect the islanders from Ottoman sieges. On ethereal Patmos, visit the Monastery of St John the Theologian and explore the grotto where the saint received his apocalyptic visions and authored the Book of Revelations.
Best Greek Islands for Hiking and Cycling
Crete – Naxos – Evia – Thasos
The varied terrain on Greece’s largest island, Crete, ranges from gentle plateaus dotted with windmills to canyons and mountains. Hiking the Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest at 16 km (10 miles), takes you through the homeland of Crete’s famed wild goat, the kri-kri.
Fertile Naxos features numerous hikes along old paths connecting the villages of the central plain – these traverse ancient temples, Hellenistic towers, and Byzantine churches, making it a great choice for those seeking a gentler outdoor adventure. Maps detailing a variety of walks are available in local shops.
The peaceful roads of Evia provide a blissfully stress-free cycling experience, and you can unwind at a local vineyard after a day of exploration. Excellent forested trails, along with a popular international race, attract mountain biking enthusiasts to Thasos. Both islands remain under the radar for most visitors, allowing you to enjoy beautiful beaches to yourself when you need a break from the road.
Best Greek Islands for Families with Kids
Naxos – Corfu – Crete
Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and offers a plethora of enjoyable activities. The beaches are often tranquil and feature activities like kite-surfing and paddle-boarding. Furthermore, many restaurants are family-friendly, ensuring that everyone feels welcome.
The old town of Corfu is a delightful place to explore with children and even offers a miniature wooden train for sightseeing trips every hour – ideal for when little legs need a rest. The Aqualand Corfu Water Park ranks among the biggest attractions in Greece for kids, making it a must-visit.
The vastness of Crete means that you will never run out of activities for the kids. The pink sand on Elafonissi beach in Chania is sure to charm everyone, while the lagoon’s shallow waters on the western end of the beach are perfect for toddlers and young swimmers. Continuing east along the coast, you will find the spectacular Palace of Knossos, an unmissable historical site that immerses visitors in ancient Minoan culture. Therefore, visit early to avoid the crowds.
Best Greek Islands for Food and Drink
Lesvos – Samos – Folegandros – Crete – Corfu
Lesvos is famous for its olive oil and ouzo, producing about 70% of all Greek ouzo. The national aperitif is typically served with mixed mezedhes (appetizers) at traditional ouzeries, combining the island’s old Turkish influences with Greek seafood specialties. Additionally, Lesvos is known for fine wine just like Samos, renowned for its sweet muscat dessert wine.
Unique Cycladic specialties from Folegandros include matsata (pasta with rabbit/chicken in red sauce), astakomakaronada (lobster with spaghetti), and liokafto (sun-dried fish). Crete is not only famous for its olive oil but also for dishes like dakos (rusks topped with tomato, olive oil, and cheese) and myzithra (sweet cheese used in pastries). Moreover, Horta (wild greens) adds seasoning to fish or roast lamb. Unlike other Ionian islands, Corfu remained free from successful Ottoman invasion, leading to its Italian-flavored cuisine.
