The Most Beautiful Greek Islands to Visit
According to legends, the gods themselves sculpted Greece’s islands, giving rise to tales that suit their extraordinary allure and seemingly magical attributes. With an estimated 1,200 to 6,000 islands and islets peppering its extensive coastlines, of which 227 are inhabited, Greece offers a myriad of destinations for those seeking a vacation. Every Greek island boasts its own unique beauty and an array of breathtaking beaches, making it hard to choose wrong. However, if you're looking for some guidance on where to begin, this guide highlights some of the most stunning Greek islands to consider for your next trip.
Table
1. Santorini
Starting with Santorini, a choice that might seem obvious but undeniably fitting, this island's beauty is cinematic in scope. Clusters of whitewashed buildings nestle on cliff faces, cascading down to the sea in a spectacle of pure white against the azure waters. Oia is renowned for its blue-domed structures and mesmerizing sunsets, offering unparalleled photographic moments. While the southern part of Santorini provides a quieter escape from the crowds, its beaches featuring sands of various hues are not to be missed.
2. Naxos
Following is Naxos, the Cyclades' largest gem, celebrated for its endless sandy shores along the west coast. Its heartland is a patchwork of sleepy towns and villages, brimming with local specialties such as arseniko cheese and the distinct kitron, a citron-flavored liqueur. Naxos Town, with its Venetian influences, hints at its historical past under Venetian rule, and Mount Zeus, believed to be Zeus' childhood home, offers trails for the adventurous.
3. Corfu
Corfu, a staple in any list of Greece's most enchanting islands, sits proudly among the Ionian islands. While its southern parts buzz with nightlife, the rest of Corfu maintains its storybook charm, mirroring the paradise depicted by Gerald and Lawrence Durrell in their writings. Here, Byzantine wonders like Angelokastro and Kassiopi Castles stand tall amidst verdant landscapes, with quaint villages and Paleokastritsa beach completing the picturesque setting.
4. Sifnos
Sifnos claims the title of the culinary king among the Greek islands, thanks in part to Nicholas Tselementes, who penned the first Greek cookbook here in 1910. The island's cuisine, featuring classics like revithia (chickpea stew) and mastello (lamb in red wine and dill), alongside the sweet melopita (honey pie), underscores its gastronomic prowess. Beyond its food, Sifnos invites a laid-back lifestyle, with its renowned pottery workshops and inviting sandy beaches in the southeast adding to its charm.
5. Mykonos
Mykonos, synonymous with Greece's party scene and often compared to Ibiza, effortlessly makes this list. Its capital, Hora, is celebrated for its picturesque windmills and vibrant bougainvillea, despite the island's fame attracting a flood of visitors. Yet, tranquil spots like Lia and Agrari beaches offer serene retreats from the bustling crowds.
6. Hydra
Hydra may be small in size but it's immense in beauty, drawing Athenians for weekend getaways thanks to its proximity to the capital. The absence of cars, with donkeys as the primary mode of transport, enhances its tranquil atmosphere. The island's vibrant art scene contrasts with its peaceful environment, and while sandy beaches are scarce, its secluded coves and quaint inlets are equally captivating.
7. Paros
Paros, with its charming villages and golden beaches, presents a subtler version of Mykonos' glamour. Its nightlife is vibrant, yet the island retains classic Greek elements – from whitewashed villages to ancient monasteries – without the overwhelming tourist crowds. Historically valued for its marble, Paros contributed to ancient masterpieces, including the temples of Zeus and Apollo, and even the Acropolis.
8. Milos
Milos, a lesser-known volcanic island in the Cyclades, has recently gained attention for its stunning beaches, numbering over 70. The island's volcanic landscape also gifts visitors with natural hot springs, offering a unique beach holiday experience. While Milos might be off some radars, its most famous artifact, the Venus de Milo, enjoys prominence in the Louvre.
9. Crete
Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, hardly needs an introduction. Despite some areas facing overdevelopment, Crete remains a treasure trove of authentic experiences, from its incredibly fresh local cuisine to untouched olive groves like those in the Amari valley and the village of Milia. Highlights include hiking the Samaria Gorge, enjoying the pink sands of Elafonisi island, and exploring the bustling markets of Chania.
10. Amorgos
Concluding our exploration is Amorgos, a hidden gem situated on the eastern fringe of the Cyclades. Its remote location and rugged terrain make it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and adventure. The clarity of its waters makes it a haven for divers, while its off-the-beaten-path ambiance is perfectly encapsulated by the welcoming sign at Katapola harbour, promising a hideaway where "Nobody will find you here."
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Conclusion: Go out, travel and live your life to the fullest.
This year, treat yourself to a break from the ordinary and seek an adventure abroad. You'll come back refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to bore all your friends with travel stories.
Any time of year is a good time to travel. Discover the best places to travel by month:
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