The 8 Must-Visit Islands in Greece

Have you been dreaming of escaping to the glorious Greek sunshine and exploring one of the country's postcard-perfect islands? With over 200 inhabited isles to choose from, there's a wealth of destinations to suit every budget and travel style. With so much choice, it can be quite overwhelming trying to decipher which island best caters to your tastes and preferences. To make your decision-making process that bit more straightforward, we've rounded up a diverse and wide-ranging line-up of the most enchanting islands. Throughout this article, you'll find the top spots for sun-worshippers, culture connoisseurs, and everything in between!

Crete

As the biggest of all the Greek islands and offering something for every kind of traveler, Crete is the ultimate all-round destination. Astounding beaches, fascinating history, and magnificent hiking trails are just a taste of what Crete is all about. Balos and Elafonissi beaches are some of the most striking of any of the islands, and the Knossos Palace and Ardaki Monastery will take you back in time through Crete's storied past. Budget travelers will love the lively town of Chania, Agios Nikolaos is a great option for families, and Malia is a mecca for all-night partying.

Santorini

Easily the most famous island of all is Santorini. Its incredibly beautiful white-washed villages and world-famous sunsets have made Santorini a popular spot for couples and honeymooners, though it's also become notoriously expensive. That being said, if you're eager to splash out on a romantic retreat, there's no place quite like it. Ambling around the cobblestone streets and visiting the iconic blue-domed churches are bucket list experiences, and the island is home to some breathtaking hotels and villas overlooking the caldera. The affluent Imerovigli, bustling Fira, and revered Oia are among the finest places to stay in Santorini.

Mykonos

With its legendary party scene, cosmopolitan ambiance, and shimmering aquamarine waters, Mykonos has become a hub for discerning vacationers hoping to unwind and dance into the early hours. Although many visitors flock here to check out the glamorous beach clubs and late-night bars, there's so much more to this Cycladic island. The Italian-influenced Little Venice neighborhood, the Mykonos windmills, and the Armenistis Lighthouse are all worthy of a visit. Mykonos Town boasts the island's best nightlife, while Ornos and Platis Gialos are lovely alternatives for families and couples.

Corfu

Rich in cultural heritage and dotted with breathtaking beaches, Corfu is among the most alluring Greek islands. Having been controlled by Venetian, French, and British forces throughout much of its history, Corfu boasts a gorgeous Old Town with eye-catching architecture. When you're craving some downtime, you can kick back at beaches like Paleokastritsa or Agios Georgios and savor the sublime scenery. Corfu Town is a fantastic base to explore various pockets of the island, and Kassiopi and Benitses are unique and more laidback villages for a quiet break.

Paxos

South of Corfu is the Ionian paradise of Paxos. Small yet stunning, Paxos is much more under the radar than many of the other islands on this list. Here, you'll spend your days lounging on unspoiled beaches, sampling local cuisine along the waterfront, and wandering the streets of traditional port towns. Venture further south of Paxos and set sail for the nearby island of Antipaxos, where you'll find some of the country's most sublime waters. Gaios is the capital and the most convenient place to stay in Paxos, but Longos and Lakka are more tranquil and mellow.

Milos

Despite previously being overshadowed by its better-known neighbors of Santorini and Mykonos, Milos has established itself among the most coveted islands in the Aegean Sea. The landscapes here are second to none, and the white volcanic rock formations of Sarakiniko Beach and Kleftiko Beach's crystal-clear waters have put Milos on the map in recent years. History enthusiasts will also have plenty to keep them busy, including the impressive Ancient Theatre of Milos and the Venetian Castle. Plaka, Milos' quintessentially Greek car-free town, is a wonderful base from which to explore the island, though party-goers might prefer the vibrant atmosphere of Adamantas.

Hydra

Hydra is a highly underrated Greek island and one that happens to lie just a two-hour boat ride from Athens, making it a perfect add-on for those planning a visit to the capital. Not only is Hydra super accessible, but it's also bursting with culture, charm, and natural beauty. The only way to get around here is on foot or by water taxi, allowing the island to retain its old-world allure and relaxed atmosphere. During your stay, you'll fall in love with the pine tree-lined Bisti Beach and the sweeping views from the imposing Mount Eros. Base yourself in Hydra Town to dive into the island's traditions and heritage, or check out Vlychos if you're in the market for a chilled-out family vacation.

Zakynthos

Commonly referred to as Zante, Zakynthos is as acclaimed for its out-of-this-world landscapes and abundant marine life as it is for its thriving nightlife. Navagio Beach, otherwise known as Shipwreck Beach, should be at the top of every visitor's to-do list and is probably one of the most instantly recognizable spots in the country. Dig a little deeper into Zakynthos, and you'll uncover a slew of other amazing locations, such as the pebbled shores of Xigia Sulfur Beach and the dazzling National Marine Park. Keen snorkelers and divers will also have the opportunity to swim with adorable sea turtles and dolphins. Kalamaki is a stellar resort town suited to young families, Laganas is famed for its bustling clubs and bars, and the romantic Alykanas attracts couples looking for somewhere serene and secluded.

Which Greek Island Will You Choose for Your Vacation?

If you're still undecided about which island to visit, why not do some island-hopping during your trip and make some space in your itinerary for a few different destinations? With ferries running daily and many sought-after spots lying just 45 minutes apart by boat, an adventure through Greece's picturesque south has never been easier!