Greece’s Most Beautiful Islands You’ll Love

When I hear the word ‘Greece’, my mind immediately thinks of pebbled beaches and clear, balmy turquoise waters. These Mediterranean islands are also home to intriguing historical sights, warm and hospitable locals, and scrumptious foods.

Sadly, most tourists follow a Greece Itinerary that only takes them to Santorini or Mykonos.

What these tourists don’t realize is that they’re missing out on some of the most authentic and beautiful islands.

For those of you who want a more unique experience, then this list of the 23 most beautiful islands in Greece is just for you.

23 Most Beautiful Islands in Greece

1. Milos

Beach lovers will adore the spectacular island of Milos. It boasts more than 70 beaches that vary from long sandy expanses to stark-white, rocky shelves that drop off into sea-green waters. What better way to see all of this than by taking a full-day catamaran tour around the island?

If you’re looking to explore Milos on your own terms, consider renting an ATV and driving around. A must-see is the colourful fishing village of Klima and the nearby ruins of a Roman theatre that’s said to be 4000 years old.

Did you know that Milos is where the famed Venus de Milo statue of Aphrodite was created? Unfortunately, this masterpiece now resides in the Louvre. Luckily there are still many other sites to see.

You can easily reach this stunning island via a ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens.

2. Andros

Just a quick 1.5-hour ferry ride from Athens is the island of Andros, a perfect Mediterannean destination for all travellers. Across Andros, you’ll find mountainous landscapes, trickling rivers, lush vegetation, and typical Greek villages.

Soak up some sun on any one of Andros’ gorgeous beaches, hike across the entire island or head up to Foros Cave to see some spectacular stalactite formations. For those seeking to take in some Greek monuments or landmarks, visit the Monastery of Panachrantos.

3. Paros

Whether you’re looking to party or relax, Paros is the perfect tourist destination for you. If you’re seeking some festivities during your time here, be sure to stay in the Parikia area. Otherwise, Naoussa is perfect if you want a calmer atmosphere.

While on this small island, be sure to visit one of the many churches and monasteries dotted across the landscape. Or stroll around some of the quaint seaside fishing villages and sample some fresh seafood.

To get to this Greek island, you’ll have to hop on a ferry at either Athens, Naxos, or Santorini. Once you arrive, the public transport system – consisting of buses and water taxis – will get you where you need to go.

4. Naxos

Naxos, the largest Greek island in the Cyclades archipelago, is a slice of heaven. It’s located in the middle of the Aegean Sea and can be reached by plane from Athens. Or you can catch a ferry from almost any nearby island.

While in Naxos, be sure to visit Portara, on the island peninsula, where you’ll find an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo. Creatives will love the colourful graffiti artworks that can be found in an abandoned hotel in Aliko.

Alternatively, you can spend your days taking part in an array of water sports like scuba diving, soaking up some Vitamin D on one of the many beaches. Or you could take a stroll along the charming village alleyways.

5. Rhodes

Rhodes actually only became a Greek island after the Second World War in 1945. Before that, Rhodes lay in Italy’s hands. The island’s history is marked with much violence and many exchanges of power.

Today, Rhodes Island is a top travel destination in Greece, and one can easily see why. It features beautiful beaches, lush forests, as well as castles, battlements, and churches left behind by its many inhabitants.

Some must-see attractions include the Palace of the Grand Master, the medieval site of Acropolis, Monolithos Castle, the Monastery of Tsambika, and the street of the Knights.

To reach this incredible spot, simply hop on a ferry in Athen’s port, Piraeus. Alternatively, you can travel by ferry from Kos, Patmos, Leros, and several other Greek islands.

6. Amorgos

Amargos is a slightly more isolated island, with more goats than residents on the island. Despite this, it offers visitors the beauty typical of other Greek islands as well as a chance to find some peace and tranquillity.

Once your ferry reaches Amorgo’s port, you can spend your time admiring the village’s white-washed architecture. Head out on a hike among the island’s fragrant vegetation, go diving, or head to one of its bustling cafes or bars.

Be sure to visit the bleached building of the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, which has been built into a cliff almost 300 metres above the ocean. If heights aren’t your thing, then head to Kalotaritissa Beach to find the nearby shipwreck of the Olympia vessel, which has stood in the shallow cove since 1980.

You might enjoy reading my Greece 7 Days and Greece 10 Days Itineraries.

7. Crete

Greece’s largest island is filled with a diverse range of interesting attractions and things to do. It holds some prominence in mythology, as it was the Greek god, Zeus’ birthplace.

Across the island, you’ll discover castles and other ancient sites, charming Venetian-style towns, stunning beaches, and amazing natural wonders. The friendly people, clear waters and delicious seafood contribute to the beauty and charm of this island.

While here, be sure to visit the quaint, colourful streets of Chania, Rethymno, and more of west Crete. Or visit the medieval and archaeological sites of Knossos and Heraklion.

There are three airports in Crete, making access to this island quick and simple. Flights from Athens usually take about one hour.

8. Kefalonia

Are you interested in spending your days on gorgeous beaches, admiring nature, learning about Greek history and culture, or getting involved in some water-based activities? Kefalonia has it all.

Located off Mainland Greece’s west coast in the Ionian Sea, this island has so much to offer. Head to Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital, to see De Bosset Bridge. At 689,9 metres in length, it’s the longest stone bridge stretching across the ocean in the world – and it was built back in 1813!

For more natural sights, visit the bright, cobalt blue waters of Melissani Lake, hike to the summit of Mount Ainos, or head to one of the top-rated beaches in the world – Myrtos beach.

Kefalonia is also the perfect base from which to explore Ithaca and Zakynthos. To reach the exotic island of Kefalonia, you’ll have to drive or bus about 3 hours from Athens to the ports of Patras or Kyllini. These are both located in the region of Peloponnesus.

From here, you’ll need to catch a ferry to the island.

9. Lefkada

If you think you’ve seen true Greek island beauty, then think again. Lefkada is a paradise of crisp, white beaches, the clearest azure-coloured waters, and lush vegetation – it will take your breath away.

Many of the island’s beaches, like Egremni and Porto Katsiki, are backed by cliffs. So be prepared to hike down to the inviting waters – once you’re there, you’ll realize it’s totally worth it!

If you’re not one for sunbathing or are simply looking for a little more adventure, head to Vassiliki Beach where you can try your hand at sailing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing. After a busy day out on the water, you can stop at one of the many bars or restaurants lining the beach for some fresh seafood.

One of the best things about this hidden gem is that it’s connected to the Greek mainland via a highway – so you can easily drive the 360 km (4 hours) route from Athens.

10. Antipaxos

Small but stunning, that is how many people describe the island of Antipaxos. To put this into perspective; the island is only 3.86 km long and 1.6 km wide. During the high season, you’ll find a maximum of about 100 people on the island, and around 20-30 people residing here throughout the rest of the year.

So, I’m sure you get the picture – visiting Antipaxos will be a more remote, relaxed, and authentic experience. The scenery is just astonishing, too. You should definitely spend some time on the beaches or snorkelling in the clear waters.

Ideally, you’ll want to visit for the day by taking a full-day boat tour from the island of Paxos, which is only 1.2 miles away. If you’re looking for a lesser known Greek Island Antipaxos may be for you!

Read more about Paxos in my articles about the best beaches in Paxos and where to eat on Paxos.

11. Symi

As your ferry brings you into Little Symi’s port, you’ll be greeted with peach and apricot-coloured houses packed on the hillside. This town was built by merchants in the 19th-century, and today, it’s a national monument waiting to be explored.

Spend your time on the island basking in the sun on one of the beach areas. But be sure to discover the many monasteries sitting amongst the pine and cypress trees of the forest, and take a walk (more like a hike!) up to the acropolis ruins.

If you aren’t out touring this charming island, be sure to pop into one of the many tavernas for some flash-fried baby shrimp –  a Symi speciality. To reach this beautiful destination, you’ll have to take a ferry. It’s best to do a trip out from Rhodes, which is only an hour and a half boat ride away.

12. Ios

Ios Island used to be known as the Greek island for partying – I remember hearing about it when I was backpacking a long time ago (thank god those days are over).

Ios Greece still attracts a young crowd in the old town at the height of summer but it also now has some great boutique hotels, lovely restaurants (the food is amazing), some hidden gems and some fantastic things to do.

Boat trips are one of the best ways to visit the many beautiful beaches on Ios. Mylopotas beach is the most well known of the Ios beaches but it is so big that there are lots of places to have a quite relaxing time. When you’re not on the beach try visiting one of the 365 blue and white churches on the island and enjoy some amazing seafood.

13. Paxos

My personal favourite Greek Island is Paxos. I mentioned Antipaxos earlier in this post – Paxos is Antipaxos’ big brother. Paxos Island Greece is 10km long and 4km wide and filled with olive groves, crystal clear water, dry stone walls, beautiful Paxos beaches,  farmhouses and fantastic food.

Life is relaxed on Paxos Island. There are three small main settlements that are at different points along the coast – Gaios, Loggos and Lakka. There are few inland villages on this greek island and those that exist are very small. It has a wonderful peaceful air. It feels like actual people live on Paxos.

14. Corfu

Situated in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is home to spectacular cliffs, UNESCO World Heritage-listed villages and of course beautiful beaches. It is the capital of the Ionian islands and is a mix of British, French and Venetian influences. Some have compared the island’s idyllic villages and olive groves to Tuscany but Tuscany doesn’t have these beaches.

The North of the island is the place to go as the south is more for fly and flop package holidays. And don’t miss Angelokastro castle, the Vlacherna Monastery and Mandraki Marina.

Thinking about visiting Santorini? Read all about it:

–Santorini Greece Black Sand Beaches
–Santorini Wineries
–Where to watch the Santorini Sunset

15. Delos

This is the beautiful Greek Island for history lovers. Delos is home to more archaeological sites and ancient ruins than any other island in this region. Don’t miss the Terrace of the Lions and the Delos Theatre. Delos has a fantasic archaeological museum where you can learn all about the history of the island (including that it is believed to have been the birthplace of both Artemis and Apollo).

16. Chios

This slightly larger Greek island is closer to Turkey than it is to Greece and not as well known as some of the other islands in this post. Its beaches are quite raw and it has many delightful Medieval hill villages. Chios is also home to the Nea Moni Monastery, a UNESCO world heritage site.

17. Mykonos

Mykonos is often referred to as the Ibiza of Greece. Indeed, the town of Mykonos has a big club and bar scene. But Mykonos is also home to lovely Greek windmills, the white-washed monasteries of Ano Mera and beautiful Elias Beach. It is only a 30-minute flight from Athens so this Cyclades island is easily accessible.

18. Kos

Like Chios, Kos is closer to Turkey than it is to Greece. This means the food is twice as good as visitors can explore both Turkish and Greek food. Kos is also home to ancient sights, one of the oldest trees in Europe and even Genoese castles. Kos is known for having outstanding beaches – some of the best of all of the Greek islands.

You might enjoy reading some of my other articles about Greece:

–Things to do in Thessaloniki
–Halkidiki Beaches
–Facts about Greece

19. Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a Greek Island with a bit of everything. If you’re looking to get away from everything head to the wild mountains of the north of the island and the turtle beaches and coves of the Vassilikos Peninsula. If you’re after some big nights out head to Laganas and Kalamaki in the south and east of the island.

Most of the south coast of Zakynthos is a nature reserve and home to loggerhead turtles. Whilst the beaches are reserved for the turtles it is possible to visit some of the beautiful coves such as Xigia and Porto Limnionas and go for a swim. And don’t miss the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos’ two most well known landmarks.

20. Skiathos

Home to white-washed villages, Byzantine castles and rugged shorelines, Skiathos is a classic Greek Island that has been popular since the 1960s. It is the smallest of the Sporades islands but the most popular. It is known for having some of the best beaches in Greece such as Koukounaries in the south and Elia beach in the north of the island.

21. Syros

Syros is the capital of the Cyclades Islands. The island had a long occupation by the Venetians and the Italian vibe can still be felt today in its marble piazzas and impressive mansions (check out the manor houses in Vaporia and Posedionia). Syros is known for its many festivals including animation, dance, jazz, digital art and many more.

Ermoupoli is the main city in Syros and is built on two peaks. One was Orthodox and the second Catholic. The beaches of Syros are not as impressive as some of the other Greek islands in this article but the island is well known for outstanding food particularly in its seaside restaurants in villages like Kini.

22. Hydra

Hydra has always been the artists island in Greece. This car free island is protected by a preservation order and is known for its rock rather than sand beaches. Art installations are created in the summer in the island’s old slaughterhouse and the School of Fine Arts is home to many talented artists from Athens. As Hydra is only two hours from Athens it is a popular weekend spot.

23. Tinos

This small and lesser known Greek Island is part of the Cycladic islands and is located between Andros and Mykonos. Tinos is filled with both rocky and sandy beaches as well as several charming villages such as Pyrgos. Tinos is filled with beautiful white buildings with unique patterns which add to its beauty. Head into Tinos Town for some outstanding Greek cuisine.

Ready to Explore The Most Beautiful Greek Islands?

Choosing these eleven islands was a tough challenge. But I know that they offer every kind of traveller an experience they won’t soon forget.

Beach-lovers can take advantage of the pristine beaches and warm turquoise waters while nature lovers and adventurers can explore the lush forests or try some activities. Or if you’re an intellectual, you can learn about Greece’s fascinating history and culture. No matter your interests, you’ll certainly love these beautiful islands in Greece.

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