Greek Islands Travel Guide: find the best island to visit for you

Home of the ancient gods, myths and architecture, Greece has enchanted thousands of travellers and it still holds the same charm for many. The nation’s gorgeous islands are one of the key attractions, offering different types of tourism: from luxury honeymoon getaways to budget-friendly family vacays and non-touristy havens. In fact, the islands are a great place to start if you are travelling Greece for the first time as most of them have retained their authenticity. 

How many islands are there in Greece?  

This question is not easy to answer. For the Hellenic Tourism Board there are about 6000 islands in total, National Geographic counts 1400 while according to the Greek government, there should be about 9835 (including rocks!). In all, there are 7 archipelagos in Greece (the Ionian Islands, the Cycladic Islands, the Dodecanese archipelago, the Sporades archipelago, the Saronic Islands, the East Aegean Islands and the North Aegean Islands) and the two large islands of Crete and Euboea.  

Since the country has more than 200 habited islands, it is natural to be confused when planning a travel itinerary and choosing the one that suits your travel style. So, we have rounded up the best of the most beautiful Greek Islands below, along with where to stay to give you the most effortless Greek Islands Travel Guide.  

The most beautiful Greek islands 

Honestly, there is no such thing as the most or the least beautiful island, it all depends on our needs and preferences including budget, presence of airport, nightlife, climate, type of tourism and presence of facilities for children or your four-legged friends.  

How to decide which Greek island to visit? 

Every island is different and therefore can meet the needs of different types of tourists. Below are some of the wide categories you can choose from: budget friendly, non-touristic, nightlife and romantic getaways. 

Budget-friendly Greek islands 

Greece in summer can be a fairly expensive destination, but there are exceptions. 

Serifos and Naxos, Cycladic Islands 

A panoramic view of the island of Naxos in Greece during a summer sunset

Serifos, in the Cyclades, is considered the cheapest island in Greece. Frequented mainly by locals, it offers heavenly beaches and low prices. In addition to its many islands, in the Cyclades, there is the famous Naxos that offers the opportunity to visit charming mountain villages. If you love history, you will not be disappointed by its ancient ruins and churches as well as numerous archaeological sites. Naxos is famous for the ancient Temple of Apollo, the old town of Naxos (Chora), the mountain village of Apeiranthos, and the stunning beach at Agios Prokopios. 

Skopelos, Sporades Archipelago 

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the waterfront in Skopelos 

Skopelos, the cheapest of the Sporades, is also the island where the movie "Mamma Mia" was filmed. It is famous for the Church of Agios Ioannis, where some scenes from the film were shot, but offers few sandy beaches. However, its breathtaking views make up for it more than you’d think and the traditional fish tavernas bring to you a taste of the scrumptious Greek cuisine. 

Crete 

Aerial view of the stunning Elafonissi beach, Crete, Greece 

The most famous island, Crete, also offers inexpensive accommodation. Easy to reach, thanks to the presence of no less than two international airports, Heraklion's Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) and Chania Airport (CHQ), Crete is a popular destination for tourists. 

As the largest island in Greece, it offers several tourist attractions, breathtakingly beautiful beaches, such as the Balos Lagoon and the white-sand beach of Elafonissi and Crete's rich history adds to its charm. Visit the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, and Malia, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets over ancient landmarks. For a unique day trip, explore the island of Spinalonga, a former prison colony.  

Editor’s Tip: With its "Work from Crete" initiative, this Greek island has also opened to digital nomads. Check out the requirements, stays, cafes etc. in our full guide on Digital Nomads in Greece.

Non touristy Greek islands for those seeking relaxation 

Amorgos, Cycladic Islands 

Traditional whitewashed windmill in the port of Aegiale, Amorgos 

In the Cyclades there is the unspoiled Amorgos, famous for the monastery of Hozoviotissa, a snow-white building set among the rocks and reached by a long and beautiful flight of steps. Not to be missed is a visit to the enchanting beach of Agia Anna, where the movie "The Big Blue" was filmed. The island is popular with those who want to experience a relaxing vacation. 

Ikaria, East Aegean Islands 

Traditional village of Evdilos, in Ikaria Island, Greece, with fishing boats 

According to myth, Icarus fell in Ikaria, in the Northeastern Aegean, when his wings melted. The island is also famous for its hot springs, located at Therma, 12 minutes from the airport, and has lively little traditional villages like Evdilos.  

Ithaca, Ionian Islands 

Waterfront of Vathy, the capital of Greek Island Ithaca 

Ithaca, the home of Odysseus, despite its literary fame, wonderful beaches and crystal-clear waters, has not yet been contaminated by mass tourism unlike neighbouring Kefalonia. 

Editor’s Tip: Crete also offers alternatives for those who want a relaxing vacation.

Greek islands with the best nightlife  

Mykonos, Cycladic Islands 

The Little Venice district with bars and restaurants by the sea in Mykonos Island 

Younger tourists will be happy to frolic in the sizzling Mykonos nightlife, the Ibiza of Greece, ideal for those who want to dance the night away under the stars. 

Zakynthos or Island of Zante, Ionian Islands 

The high cliff restaurant “Sunset Michali Taverna” in Zakynthos 

Zakynthos, the queen of the Ionian Sea, is famous for being praised by the renowned Italian poet Ugo Foscolo. It offers exciting nighttime entertainment in Laganas, a favourite destination for those who like to party till the early morning hours. The island is easily accessible by both ferry and airport (Dionysios Solomos Airport). So, you can stay on the island or visit it from the port city of Kyllini. 

Zakynthos isn’t only for those who like to party till the break of dawn. When here, you can visit the many natural attractions such as the Blue Caves and Keri Caves. Be sure to visit Navagio Shipwreck, one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the Greek islands and among the world's most beautiful beaches.  

Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands 

The small, whitewashed village Lindos on Rhodes Island 

Popular with tourists from northern Europe, Rhodes is an ideal destination for those who love to party. On Orfanidou Street, you can find a wide selection of bars and nightclubs, some of which host evenings with internationally renowned DJs. During the day, walk through the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, visit the the picturesque village of Lindos, enjoy a beach day at Anthony Quinn Bay, and experience the local nightlife 

Crete also has quite a lively nightlife, proving to be suitable for diverse tourism. Close to Heraklion, there is Hersonissos, which is home to the famous StarBeach club, frequented by party animals from all over the world.  

Santorini, Aegean Islands 

Greek salad with beautiful sea view in Santorini Island, Greece 

Santorini is known as a sophisticated and romantic destination, but its nightlife will not disappoint. In Fira you can find disco bars open until dawn, and the beaches of Perissa, Kamari, and Perivolos host several beach bars. 

Greek Islands honeymoon destinations 

When it comes to romantic getaways, the Greek Islands in our list above also offer some of the most enchanting and idyllic settings in the world. 

If you are looking for breathtaking sunsets, white-washed buildings, luxury cliffside accommodations, and stunning views of the caldera, Santorini is the perfect place for you even if not very budget-friendly. Mykonos is the perfect destination for couples who love partying and a cosmopolitan atmosphere while if you are looking for a more tranquil atmosphere Milos offers unique rock formations, pristine beaches and less crowds. 

History lovers would find their little paradise in Rhodes and Naxos, while for a perfect romantic holiday with crystal-clear waters, pristine sandy beaches, and breathtaking landscapes, Zakynthos is ideal. Smaller and less crowded than Santorini, Zakynthos is perfect for couples. Despite its size, it boasts vibrant nightlife, allowing you to dance the night away and relax on the beach the next day.  

For active couples, Crete is a dream destination. Its stunning mountains, canyons, and vibrant seaside towns offer endless exploration. The romantic landscape, with its beautiful beaches and hidden coves, is perfect for relaxation. If you are looking for unspoiled nature, the car-free Hydra, Folegandros and its cliffside villages, Skopelos with its lush greenery are impossible not to mention. 

What’s the best time to visit Greek Islands? 

The Greek Islands enjoy sunny and balmy weather most of the year, but they truly come alive in the height of summer. If you love beach holidays, the islands are a paradise with abundant sun and warm waters perfect for swimming. However, popular islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, and Paros can get very crowded in July and August. 

For those more interested in sightseeing, hiking, and exploring, March-April and October are ideal months to visit. Do note that by late October, ferry services and flights reduce their routes, and many businesses on the islands may close for the winter. 

Still undecided on which island to visit? We cannot blame you; the choice is vast. In the meantime, you might want to start by peeking at our beautiful vacation rentals in Greece! You will be spoilt for choice!