Looking for the best Greek Islands to visit? Whether it’s a romantic getaway or an adventurous family vacation, Greece has something for everyone, and its islands are no exception.
From Santorini to Mykonos and Corfu to Crete and Rhodes, there are so many beautiful Greek islands that choosing just one can be a challenge. As well as the picturesque views they promise, they provide easy access to mainland Greece, as well as other countries.
From the Ionian islands to the Cyclades islands, all the Greek islands boast sandy beaches, delicious cuisine, beach bars, and ancient city sites. Some even promise unique sites you won’t find elsewhere, such as blue caves, sea caves, and a shipwreck beach.
Planning on visiting any of these amazing places? Let us help guide your journey with our list of the best Greek Islands to visit!
Santorini
Santorini is a beautiful Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its breathtaking views, vibrant nightlife, and unique culture. Here are some of the best things to do in Santorini, one of the best Greek islands to visit.
Santorini forms part of the Cyclades islands and offers plenty of activities for visitors looking to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the caldera to wine-tasting tours that take you through local vineyards, there’s something for everyone here.
The iconic whitewashed villages perched atop cliffs make great photo opportunities as well. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving available.
When to Visit Santorini
The best time to visit Santorini depends largely on what type of experience you’re after. It can be quite crowded during peak season (July-August), so if you’d rather avoid crowds then consider visiting between April-June and September-October, when temperatures are still pleasant, but not overly hot, and tourist numbers remain low.
Winter months (November–March) tend to be quieter as well. However, keep in mind that certain attractions may be closed due to weather conditions so always check before booking your trip.
Santorini is a stunning volcanic island with plenty of activities and breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, it’s the perfect destination to visit.
Mykonos
Mykonos is a beautiful Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed vacation or a relaxing getaway, Mykonos has something to offer everyone.
Mykonos offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. For those who love the outdoors, there are numerous hiking trails that lead up to breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and seaside villages.
There are also plenty of water sports available such as windsurfing, sailing, and snorkeling. The nightlife on Mykonos is legendary with bars and clubs open until dawn, playing everything from traditional Greek music to modern electronic beats.
When to Visit Mykonos
The best time to visit Mykonos depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If it’s peaceful and quiet, then springtime (April – May) is ideal, as temperatures are milder but still warm enough for swimming in the sea.
Summer months (June – August) bring crowds but also some great festivals. Autumn (September – October) brings cooler temperatures perfect for exploring without too much heat while winter months (November – March) can be quite cold, so this period is only recommended if you don’t mind bundling up.
Mykonos is a vibrant and bustling island with plenty of activities, accommodation options, and beautiful scenery. Next up, we’ll explore the stunning Corfu.
Corfu
Corfu is a great destination for those looking for an active holiday. From water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing to land activities like hiking and biking, there’s something for everyone on this breathtaking island.
The island – which forms part of the Ionian islands – also has some of the best beaches in Greece with crystal clear waters and golden sand. For culture lovers, there are plenty of historical sites to explore, including the Old Town of Corfu which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where to Stay
There are many accommodation options in Corfu, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments or villas. Most hotels offer stunning views over the Ionian Sea and have their own private beach access, so you can enjoy swimming in the warm Mediterranean waters all day long.
If you’re looking for something more secluded, then renting a villa or apartment might be your best bet – these usually come with their own pool too.
When to Visit Corfu
Generally speaking, May through October is considered peak season in Corfu due to its mild climate and abundance of sunshine during this time period. However, if you want to avoid crowds then April or November may be better suited as prices tend to drop off during these months.
Corfu is an ideal destination for a relaxing beach vacation, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. From its stunning coastline to its vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder why Corfu is one of the most popular Greek islands. Next up: Crete.
Crete
Crete is a beautiful Greek island with plenty of activities and attractions for visitors. The most popular activity on the island is swimming in its crystal clear waters, but there are also plenty of other things to do such as exploring ancient ruins, visiting museums, taking part in water sports, or simply relaxing on one of the many stunning beaches.
There are also some great hiking trails that take you through lush forests and up into the mountains where you can enjoy breathtaking views.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options vary from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels and apartments. For those looking for a more traditional experience, there are several villages scattered around the island offering quaint guesthouses and villas with spectacular views over the Aegean Sea.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more modern then Heraklion has some excellent hotels located close to all major attractions.
When to Visit Crete
The best time to visit Crete depends largely on what type of holiday experience you’re after. If it’s sunbathing and beach days that appeal, then May through September will be your best bet, as temperatures remain warm throughout this period with little rain.
However, if sightseeing is your top priority, then April or October may be better suited. Temperatures will still be pleasant while crowds tend to be much smaller at this time of year, making it easier to explore without battling large swathes of tourists.
Crete is a great destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Greece, and its many activities make it an ideal place for all types of travelers. Next up, we’ll take a look at Rhodes – another popular island with plenty to offer.
Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the most popular Greek islands, located in the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed holiday, Rhodes has something to offer everyone.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy on Rhodes. You can explore the island’s many archaeological sites such as Lindos Acropolis and Palace of Grand Master Knights, take a boat trip around nearby Symi Island or simply relax on one of the island’s many beautiful beaches like Tsambika Beach or Anthony Quinn Bay.
For those who prefer more active pursuits, there are plenty of watersports available including windsurfing, sailing, and diving.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options range from luxurious resorts with private pools and spas to budget-friendly hostels in bustling towns like Faliraki and Ixia.
If you want something truly unique then consider staying at one of the traditional villages dotted across the island where you can experience authentic Greek hospitality firsthand.
When to Visit Rhodes
The best time to visit Rhodes is during spring (April – May) when temperatures are milder than summer but still warm enough for swimming in crystal clear waters off some secluded beach coves.
During this period, visitors will also be able to enjoy cultural events such as Easter celebrations, which bring together locals and tourists alike in a festive atmosphere that lasts all week long.
FAQs About the Best Greek Islands to Visit
Which is the nicest Greek island to visit?
The answer to which is the nicest Greek island to visit depends on what type of vacation you are looking for. For a beach holiday, Santorini and Mykonos offer stunning views and crystal-clear waters.
For an active adventure, Crete has plenty of hiking trails, ancient ruins, and archaeological sites. If relaxation is your goal then Corfu or Zakynthos provide tranquil settings with picturesque villages and secluded beaches.
Ultimately it comes down to personal preference; each of the best Greek islands to visit offers something unique that will make your trip unforgettable.
Where is the most beautiful island in Greece?
The Greek Islands are renowned for their stunning beauty, with each island offering its own unique charm. Santorini is widely considered to be the most beautiful of all the Greek Islands. Its iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets make it a must-visit destination.
The caldera views from Oia village are particularly spectacular, while Akrotiri provides an interesting archaeological site that’s well worth exploring. With its crystal clear waters and picturesque villages, Santorini offers something for everyone – making it one of the best Greek islands to visit.
How do I choose which Greek island to visit?
Choosing the best Greek island to visit depends on what type of vacation you are looking for. If you want a beach holiday, then Cycladic islands like Mykonos and Santorini offer stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Crete or Rhodes where you can explore ancient ruins and sample the delicious local cuisine. If nightlife is your thing, Corfu has plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained until dawn. Whichever island you choose, make sure it offers all the activities that appeal to your interests so that your trip will be an unforgettable experience.
Which is the best Greek island to visit for the first time?
The best Greek island to visit for the first time is Santorini. It’s a stunningly beautiful and romantic destination with breathtaking views of the caldera, crystal-clear waters, and whitewashed buildings that make it one of the most iconic islands in Greece.
Although it’s not the largest Greek island, a lot of activities and beautiful beaches are packed into this stunning, small island.
With its incredible sunsets, amazing restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone on this picturesque island. From exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on some of Europe’s best beaches or taking part in thrilling water sports activities – Santorini has it all.
Final Thoughts
The Greek Islands are a paradise for those looking to explore and experience the beauty of Greece. From the stunning beaches of Santorini to the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos, there is something for everyone in this amazing country.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled holiday or just some rest and relaxation, these five best greek islands to visit will provide you with everything you need! So don’t wait any longer – start planning your trip today! Can’t choose just one? Try an island hopping holiday, during which you’ll travel around the best Greek islands to visit.
Are you looking for the best Greek islands to visit? Look no further! Our guide to the Greek Islands provides detailed information on some of the best islands in Greece, including their attractions and activities.
From gorgeous beaches and archaeological sites to lively nightlife spots – we have it all covered. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream vacation today with our helpful guide!
