Greek Island Hopping Guide: Best Islands to Visit and How to Plan Your Trip
Sun-bleached villages, sapphire waters, ferry-hopping adventures and enough grilled octopus to make Poseidon proud — welcome to the Greek Islands. With over 200 inhabited islands (and thousands more if we’re counting every rocky outcrop), Greece offers an island for every kind of traveller. Whether you're chasing the legendary sunsets of Santorini, the beach parties of Mykonos, or the quiet magic of lesser-known gems like Symi or Folegandros, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start.
This guide is here to help you make sense of it all — whether you want to visit just one island and settle in, or hop across the Aegean like a modern Odysseus. We'll walk you through the best Greek islands by travel style, how to get around, what to pack, and insider tips to help you dodge the crowds and uncover a slice of local island life.
When to Visit the Greek Islands
One of the beauties of Greece is that there’s really no bad time to visit — but the experience can vary wildly depending on the season. Knowing when to go is just as important as knowing where.
Spring (April – June)
If you’re after blooming wildflowers, quieter beaches and mild sunshine, spring is your best bet. Temperatures are comfortable (around 20–28°C), the islands are lush and green, and crowds are minimal — especially in May and early June. Ferries run reliably, and you’ll often have hiking trails and tavernas almost to yourself.
Summer (July – August)
This is peak season — for good reason. Expect blazing sun (often over 30°C), packed beaches, lively nightlife and higher prices. It’s the best time for swimming, boat trips and festivals, but also the most crowded and expensive. Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes will be heaving, so if you're coming during these months, either embrace the buzz or head to smaller islands like Sifnos or Koufonisia for some breathing space.
Autumn (September – October)
September might be the sweet spot of all — warm seas, sunny days, and fewer tourists. October sees quieter streets and cooler nights, but most things are still open. A great time for foodies, too, with grape harvests and wine festivals underway.
Winter (November – March)
Island life slows right down in winter. Many tourist services shut, especially on the smaller islands, but places like Crete, Rhodes and Corfu still have a local buzz. Expect cooler temperatures (10–18°C), moody seascapes, and a completely different (and quieter) side of Greece.
How to Get Around the Greek Islands
Island hopping in Greece is a rite of passage for many travellers — and thankfully, it’s much easier than it first appears. Once you get the hang of ferry routes, regional groupings, and a few handy booking platforms, you’ll be gliding across the Aegean like a local.
Flights vs Ferries: Which Should You Choose?
Ferries are the go-to for most island hoppers. They’re scenic, flexible, and often cheaper than flights. Ferry routes crisscross the Aegean and Ionian Seas, especially between popular islands during the summer months (May to September). There are two main types:
Conventional Ferries: Slower but more spacious and stable. Great for those prone to seasickness or travelling on a budget.
High-Speed Ferries: Faster and more expensive. Expect a bumpier ride but less travel time — ideal for tighter itineraries.
Flights are useful for covering longer distances or if you’re starting your trip on a far-flung island like Crete or Rhodes. Many Greek islands have airports, but not all offer international flights — so you'll likely connect via Athens. Keep in mind:
Domestic flights (e.g. Athens to Santorini) take about 45 minutes.
Flights tend to be pricier and less flexible than ferries, especially in high season.
Pro tip: Consider flying into one island (e.g. Santorini), hopping by ferry through a few others, and flying out from a different one (e.g. Mykonos) to maximise your route.
Understanding the Island Groups
The Greek Islands are spread out across several clusters. To avoid long, expensive crossings, plan your route within one island group or neighbouring ones.
Cyclades: The classic postcard image — whitewashed houses, blue domes, cliffside towns. Includes Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Ios, and more. Well connected by fast ferries, especially from Athens’ port, Piraeus.
Dodecanese: Further southeast, near Turkey. Think medieval castles, colourful harbour towns, and fewer crowds. Includes Rhodes, Symi, Kos, and Patmos. Ideal for a more historic or laid-back vibe.
Ionian Islands: Located on the west coast of Greece. Think Venetian architecture, turquoise bays, and olive groves. Includes Corfu, Zakynthos (Zante), Kefalonia, and Lefkada. Best accessed via flights or mainland drives — ferry connections are better from the mainland than other island groups.
Sporades: Quiet, pine-covered islands off the east coast. Includes Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. Great for hiking, beaches and low-key getaways.
North Aegean Islands: More remote, off the radar, and ideal for escaping the crowds. Lesvos, Chios and Samos are the highlights here.
Crete: Greece’s largest island. A destination in its own right with mountain villages, ancient ruins, and some of the best beaches in the country. Ferry or fly from Athens — and stay a while.
Booking Tips and Island Hopping Advice
Ferryhopper.com and DirectFerries.com are the most reliable platforms for checking schedules, comparing prices and booking tickets.
Ferries can sell out in July and August, especially high-speed services and routes to Santorini and Mykonos. Book in advance if travelling during peak summer.
Ports like Piraeus (Athens) and Heraklion (Crete) can be overwhelming. Arrive at least 60–90 minutes early and don’t count on signage — ask port staff if you’re unsure where your boat leaves from.
Ferries don’t always run on time, especially in windy conditions. Build flexibility into your plans and avoid tight connections with flights or tours.
If travelling between less-connected islands, you might need to route back through a hub like Naxos, Paros, or Rhodes.
For island groups like the Ionian Islands, it's often better to travel by car + ferry from the mainland rather than hopping between them.
A Few Final Transport Tips
Pack light: Getting on and off ferries with heavy bags isn’t fun, especially on islands without proper docks (you may disembark via gangplank or even small tenders).
Download the apps: Ferryhopper and MarineTraffic are great for real-time ferry tracking.
Consider a rental car or scooter once you're on an island — not all have public transport, and taxis can be limited.
Seasickness? Stick to lower decks, avoid high-speed catamarans, and keep ginger tablets handy for choppier routes.
Zakynthos.
Best Greek Islands by Travel Style
With over 200 inhabited islands, choosing just one (or a few) can feel like an impossible task. But each island has its own rhythm, personality and pace. Whether you’re dreaming of cliffside sunsets, secret beaches, buzzing nightlife or old-world charm, there's an island that fits you perfectly. Here's your shortcut to finding it.
Santorini – for romance and iconic views
Why go
Few places on earth match the sheer drama of Santorini. Formed by a volcanic eruption over 3,500 years ago, the island is a crescent-shaped caldera with steep cliffs plunging into the Aegean. Topped with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and infinity pools clinging to the edge, it’s no wonder Santorini has become a bucket-list destination — particularly for couples. But there’s more to it than just sunset selfies.
Top things to do
Walk the Fira to Oia caldera trail
A 10 km cliffside path connecting two of the island’s most scenic towns. The views are unforgettable — white villages glowing against deep blue sea, volcanic cliffs, and the occasional donkey or taverna. Start early to beat the heat and take your time.
Pro tip: pack water and wear proper shoes — it’s not just a stroll.
Explore Ancient Akrotiri
This Minoan settlement was buried in volcanic ash around 1600 BC — and preserved in eerie detail. Wander through multi-storey buildings, pottery-filled rooms and frescoes that predate Pompeii. It’s one of Greece’s most underrated archaeological sites.
Wine tasting in the vineyards
Santorini’s volcanic soil produces punchy whites and floral rosés, with Assyrtiko being the star grape. Visit local wineries like Santo Wines or Venetsanos for tastings with a view.
Try a “volcanic wine flight” to taste how the terroir affects the flavour.
Sunset from Oia (or not)
Oia’s sunset is famous for a reason — but it draws huge crowds. If you want the view without the madness, watch it from Imerovigli, the Skaros Rock trail, or from a catamaran on the caldera.
Sail the caldera
Half-day or sunset cruises take you past the red and white beaches, hot springs, and around the volcanic island in the centre of the caldera. Many include a swim, barbecue and drinks.
Best for
Couples and honeymooners
First-time visitors to the Greek Islands
Travellers into photography, wine, and dramatic landscapes
Hidden gem tip
Head to Pyrgos, a sleepy inland village that’s largely missed by tourists. It has winding alleys, a Venetian castle, rooftop cafes, and panoramic views of the entire island — especially magical at dusk.
Where to stay
Imerovigli – ideal for peace, sunsets and luxury with fewer crowds
Fira – good for restaurants, shops and transport connections
Oia – classic, romantic, but expect a premium price
Pyrgos – quiet, charming, and beautifully central
Local insight
Santorini gets windy, especially in summer. A light jacket or scarf is useful in the evenings, even when it’s hot during the day.
Santorini.
Mykonos – for nightlife and chic beaches
Why go
Mykonos is where bohemian beach life meets cosmopolitan glamour. Known for its whitewashed alleys, bougainvillaea-filled courtyards and world-famous party scene, this Cycladic gem attracts everyone from DJs and digital nomads to honeymooners and yacht-hoppers. But beyond the beach clubs and boutique shops, there’s also a quieter side — charming villages, hidden coves, and laid-back local tavernas if you know where to look.
Top things to do
Bar-hop in Mykonos Town
The labyrinthine alleys of Chora (the main town) are packed with stylish bars, cocktail lounges and hidden clubs. Start with a sunset drink in Little Venice, then weave your way through chic speakeasies and rooftop terraces.
Pro tip: head out late — most places don’t get busy until midnight.
Dance on the sand
Mykonos is legendary for its beach clubs. Head to Paradise Beach or Super Paradise for all-day parties, or splurge at Scorpios or Nammos for an upscale vibe with DJs, daybeds and cocktails that cost more than your hotel.
Visit Delos
A short boat trip from Mykonos, Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. This once-sacred island was considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Now you can explore temples, mosaics, a theatre and ancient houses in a vast open-air museum.
Swim at quieter beaches
If you’re not into crowds, Mykonos still delivers. Head to Agios Sostis for a peaceful cove without sunbeds or beach bars, or explore Fokos and Kapari beaches for a more secluded swim.
Shop like a local (or a celebrity)
The boutique scene in Mykonos is serious. Think linen shirts, handmade jewellery, and independent Greek designers tucked into whitewashed alleyways. Matogianni Street is the main hub, but it pays to get lost — that’s where the best finds are.
Best for
Partygoers and nightlife lovers
Solo travellers looking to socialise
Luxury travellers, style-conscious couples
Hidden gem tip
Visit Ano Mera, a small inland village with a traditional square, sleepy tavernas, and the historic Panagia Tourliani Monastery. It’s only 15 minutes from the madness of Mykonos Town but feels like a different world.
Where to stay
Mykonos Town – for nightlife, restaurants and walkability
Ornos – family-friendly and close to quieter beaches
Platis Gialos – relaxed beach vibes with good ferry access to other coves
Psarou – upscale and stylish, close to Nammos Beach Club
Local insight
Taxis are limited and expensive, and Uber doesn't operate as you'd expect — they often redirect to private transfer companies. If you’re confident, rent a quad or scooter to explore the island on your own terms.
Mykonos.
Naxos – for foodies and families
Why go
Often overlooked in favour of its flashier neighbours, Naxos is the largest of the Cycladic islands — and arguably the most underrated. With a fertile interior, endless golden beaches, sleepy mountain villages and a food scene rooted in local produce, Naxos is where Greek island life feels most authentic. It’s laid-back, affordable, and full of soul — ideal for slow travel, family adventures, and culinary exploration.
Top things to do
Catch sunset at the Portara
The Temple of Apollo’s unfinished marble gate (known as the Portara) stands dramatically at the entrance to Naxos Town. It’s especially stunning at golden hour, with the sea crashing below and the old town behind you.
Pro tip: walk across the causeway just before sunset to beat the crowds.
Wander Naxos Old Town
Lose yourself in the narrow, winding streets of the Kastro, a medieval quarter built by the Venetians. Think hidden churches, bougainvillaea-covered arches, and rooftop cafes with panoramic views.
Swim at Agios Prokopios or Plaka Beach
Naxos is known for its long, sandy beaches — many of which stretch for kilometres. Agios Prokopios is popular and well-served with sunbeds and tavernas, while Plaka is quieter, more rustic, and perfect for lazy afternoons with a good book.
Take a road trip into the mountains
Hire a car and explore the island’s lush interior. Visit Halki, a charming village with neoclassical mansions and a local distillery, or Apeiranthos, built from marble and full of local craft shops.
Eat your way across the island
Naxos is famous for its cheese (look for arseniko and graviera), local potatoes, citrus liqueur, and meat dishes. Farm-to-table isn’t a trend here — it’s just how things are done.
Best for
Families looking for a low-stress, beachy getaway
Food lovers and slow travellers
Budget-conscious travellers who don’t want to compromise on beauty
Hidden gem tip
Don’t miss Rotonda, a hilltop restaurant near Apeiranthos with unbeatable views over the island — perfect for a sunset dinner far from the crowds.
Where to stay
Naxos Town (Chora) – lively and central with great food and ferry access
Agios Prokopios – relaxed beach base with family-friendly hotels
Plaka – quiet and rustic, ideal for peace and sea views
Chalki or Apeiranthos – for a mountain stay in the heart of local life
Local insight
Ferries arrive and depart from Naxos Town, but many of the best beaches and villages are a drive away. A rental car or ATV will massively expand what you can explore — especially if you want to visit the island’s olive groves, hidden tavernas, or remote hiking trails.
Naxos.
Paros – for laid-back charm and island hopping
Why go
Paros has quietly become one of the Cyclades’ rising stars. With whitewashed villages, crystal-clear beaches, and a low-key but stylish energy, it hits the sweet spot between Mykonos and Naxos. You’ll find buzzy harbour towns, secluded bays, charming inland villages, and easy ferry access to smaller islands — making it perfect for a relaxed yet varied escape.
Top things to do
Stroll through Naoussa
Once a sleepy fishing village, Naoussa is now one of the prettiest harbour towns in the Aegean. Think cobbled alleys, boutiques tucked behind climbing vines, and waterfront seafood restaurants spilling out onto the quayside. As the sun sets, the vibe shifts from taverna to cocktail bar — but it never feels over the top.
Beach-hop along the coastline
Paros has beaches for every mood — sandy coves, shallow turquoise waters, and rugged coastline perfect for windsurfing. Try:
Kolymbithres – bizarre granite rock formations and calm, clear water
Santa Maria – laid-back, good for watersports
Faragas – peaceful and slightly off the radar
Wander Lefkes village
This traditional hilltop village is one of Paros’s highlights. Whitewashed lanes, flowering courtyards, sleepy squares and jaw-dropping views — it’s the kind of place that feels untouched by time.
Hop over to Antiparos
A short ferry ride from Paros’s western port, Antiparos is smaller, even more chilled, and beloved by artists and creatives. Perfect for a day trip (or longer), it offers beach bars, hidden caves, and celebrity hideaways.
Take a sunset sail
Several companies offer evening boat trips from Parikia or Naoussa — ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and golden hour views with wine and Greek music in the background.
Best for
Couples looking for a romantic but less touristy base
Friends or families after a relaxed, beach-focused trip
Travellers wanting to pair chill vibes with a bit of island hopping
Hidden gem tip
Make your way to Aliki, a quiet fishing village in the south with fresh seafood, sandy beaches, and a proper local feel. It’s also where locals go to escape the high-season bustle of Naoussa.
Where to stay
Naoussa – charming, upmarket, and great for dining and nightlife
Parikia – the island’s port town, more affordable and walkable
Lefkes – quiet and picturesque, ideal for a more traditional stay
Aliki – relaxed, authentic, and great for families
Local insight
Paros is one of the best islands for getting around without a car — frequent buses run between major towns and beaches. But if you want total freedom to explore coves and inland villages, renting a scooter or buggy is well worth it.
Paros.
Milos – for beaches and otherworldly landscapes
Why go
Milos is unlike any other Greek island. Formed by volcanic activity, its coastline is a kaleidoscope of colours, caves, and moon-like rock formations. With over 70 beaches (yes, really), from stark white cliffs to sulphur-stained sands, it’s a dream for nature lovers, photographers and anyone looking to escape the crowds. Milos has charm, authenticity and raw beauty in equal measure.
Top things to do
Explore Sarakiniko’s lunar landscape
Sarakiniko isn’t just a beach — it’s an alien world. Smooth, chalk-white volcanic rock meets deep blue sea in one of the most surreal settings in Greece. Swim, cliff-jump, or just explore the curves and craters of the coast.
Pro tip: Go early or at golden hour to avoid harsh light and tour groups.
Take a boat trip around the island
Milos’s true beauty is best seen from the water. Full-day catamaran cruises take you to hidden spots like Kleftiko, a stunning bay of sea caves and towering rock arches. Most tours include snorkelling, food and even sea kayaking.
Swim at Firiplaka and Tsigrado
Firiplaka is a long, rainbow-hued beach backed by cliffs and perfect for swimming. Nearby Tsigrado is more adventurous — you’ll need to climb down via rope and ladder to reach its narrow cove, but it’s worth every step.
Wander through Plaka and Tripiti
The capital, Plaka, is a hilltop village with sunset views to rival Santorini — minus the madness. Nearby Tripiti is home to ancient catacombs and a Roman theatre with incredible sea views.
Visit Klima’s colourful fishermen’s houses
These traditional syrmata — boat garages turned homes — are painted in bright colours and sit right on the water’s edge. You can visit, take photos, or even stay in one of them for a truly local experience.
Best for
Travellers seeking raw, natural beauty
Couples and solo travellers who want something quieter and offbeat
Beach lovers and amateur photographers
Hidden gem tip
Check out Papafragas Cave, a narrow, dramatic cove that looks like a pirate hideout. It's less popular than Sarakiniko but equally striking — just be cautious when climbing down.
Where to stay
Adamas – the port town with most amenities and boat trip departures
Plaka – charming and quiet with sunset views
Pollonia – an elegant seaside village, great for couples and foodies
Klima – for a once-in-a-lifetime stay in a fisherman’s house on the sea
Local insight
Unlike Santorini or Paros, Milos is still developing its tourism infrastructure — which is part of the appeal. But this means fewer buses and taxis, so renting a car or ATV is essential if you want to explore the island’s more remote gems.
Milos.
Symi – for hidden gems and slow travel
Why go
Symi is one of those islands that feels like a secret — even to people who’ve been to Greece multiple times. Just an hour north of Rhodes by ferry, it’s a neoclassical dream of pastel-coloured mansions cascading down to a horseshoe harbour. There are no big resorts, no airport, and no nightlife scene — just long lunches, quiet swims, and one of the most beautiful island towns in the Aegean. It’s the definition of slow travel.
Top things to do
Arrive by ferry into Gialos
Symi’s port town is arguably the most picturesque arrival in Greece. As your ferry glides in, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of neoclassical buildings painted in ochre, rose and blue, all rising up steep hillsides. It’s the kind of view that makes people instantly regret not booking more days.
Swim at Agios Georgios Dysalonas
This secluded beach sits beneath towering cliffs and is only accessible by boat. The water is glass-clear, and you’ll often have the beach to yourself. Several water taxis or day cruises from Gialos include it on their routes.
Wander Chorio and the Kali Strata
Climb the Kali Strata, a 500-step stone staircase that links the harbour to the upper town, and you’ll find a maze of cobbled alleys, faded mansions, and sleepy squares. Chorio is where locals live — it’s slower, quieter, and full of character.
Visit the Monastery of Panormitis
Located on the opposite side of the island, this 18th-century monastery is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Dodecanese. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a peaceful escape — and the ferry ride there offers more stunning coastal views.
Eat fresh Symi shrimp by the harbour
Tiny, crispy and fried whole, Symi shrimp are a local delicacy. Enjoy them with ouzo at a waterfront taverna as the fishing boats bob behind you and the town lights start to twinkle.
Best for
Couples and solo travellers looking to unplug
Return visitors to Greece seeking something different
Travellers into architecture, history and slow-paced living
Hidden gem tip
Take the short coastal path from Gialos to Nos Beach early in the morning — you’ll pass fishermen, cats sunbathing on steps, and sleepy locals watering flowers before the day heats up. It’s Symi at its most peaceful.
Where to stay
Gialos – the main harbour town, full of colour and charm
Chorio – more local and residential, with panoramic views
Pedi – a quiet seaside village with a relaxed, family feel
Local insight
There’s no airport on Symi, and that’s part of the magic. Most travellers arrive via ferry from Rhodes — and that limited access keeps the crowds away. Don’t over-plan here: days are best spent with no agenda, wandering from one hidden staircase or taverna to the next.
Symi.
Crete – for all-round adventure and history buffs
Why go
Crete isn’t just another Greek island — it’s practically a country of its own. The largest island in Greece and fifth largest in the Mediterranean, Crete is a world of contrasts: ancient palaces and remote gorges, beach towns and mountaintop villages, world-class cuisine and rugged coastline. Whether you're into archaeology, hiking, culture, or just lying on a beach with raki in hand, Crete has space for it all — and then some.
Top things to do
Explore the Palace of Knossos
Often dubbed Europe’s oldest city, Knossos was the ceremonial and political centre of the Minoan civilisation. It’s full of mythology (yes, this is where the Minotaur was said to lurk in the labyrinth), and walking through its ancient halls and frescoed rooms is a must for history lovers.
Pro tip: Visit early or with a guide — it gets busy and context brings the ruins to life.
Hike the Samaria Gorge
Crete is a hiker’s paradise, and Samaria Gorge is its crown jewel. This 16 km trek through a dramatic canyon ends at the Libyan Sea. Along the way, you’ll pass rugged cliffs, wild goats, and shaded pine forests.
It’s a full-day commitment, but unforgettable for nature lovers.
Swim in the pink sands of Elafonissi
On the island’s southwest coast lies Elafonissi Beach, famous for its pink-tinged sands and turquoise shallows. A shallow lagoon separates it from the mainland, making it ideal for wading, swimming and photography. It’s popular, but never feels like a resort strip.
Wander through Chania’s old town
Chania is one of the most charming towns in Greece, with a Venetian harbour, Ottoman architecture, lively markets and flower-draped alleyways. Perfect for slow strolls, hidden cafes and watching fishing boats come and go at sunset.
Eat your way through the villages
Cretan cuisine is one of the healthiest and most flavourful in the Mediterranean. Try dakos (a barley rusk topped with tomato and feta), mountain herbs, olive oil fresh from the press, wild greens, and slow-cooked lamb. Head inland for proper tavernas — the kind where the menu is handwritten and the wine comes from someone’s cousin’s barrel.
Best for
Adventurous travellers and history buffs
Families and couples wanting variety in one place
Food lovers, nature seekers, and culture hunters
Hidden gem tip
Head to Loutro, a tiny, car-free village on the south coast, accessible only by boat or footpath. Think white buildings against turquoise water, tavernas right on the sea, and utter tranquillity.
Where to stay
Chania – vibrant, beautiful and great for western Crete
Rethymno – central base with a lovely old town and beaches
Heraklion – best for Knossos and ferry/airport access
South coast (Plakias, Loutro) – remote, wild and peaceful
Local insight
Crete’s size means you shouldn’t try to see it all in one trip — it's better to pick a region (east, west or south) and explore it properly. Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you want to reach the best beaches and mountain villages without relying on patchy buses.
Crete.
Honourable mentions
Folegandros – for low-key romance
If Santorini feels too polished or pricey, Folegandros is your antidote. With dramatic cliffs, a cliffside main town (Chora), and quiet beaches, it’s ideal for couples who want stunning views without the crowds. Sunset from the Panagia Church is pure magic.
Koufonisia – for barefoot island life
Tiny, car-free, and blissfully simple, Koufonisia is part of the Lesser Cyclades and offers an easy, walkable escape. You can beach-hop on foot, eat just-caught seafood by the sea, and unplug completely. Best visited in June or September when it’s peaceful.
Hydra – for art lovers and city breakers
Just a two-hour ferry from Athens, Hydra is a dream for a short escape. No cars, elegant stone mansions, and a long history of attracting artists and writers. Great for walking, swimming off rocks, and people-watching from harbour cafés.
Zakynthos – for iconic Instagram beaches
Home to the famous Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, Zakynthos is part of the Ionian Islands and blends dramatic cliffs with lush interiors and lively nightlife. Great for couples or friends after a scenic yet sociable break.
Ikaria – for slow living and wellness
This island is one of the world’s Blue Zones — where people live longer, healthier lives. It’s rugged, quiet, and wonderfully traditional. Ideal for digital detoxes, long meals, hot springs, and truly slowing down.
Amorgos – for hiking and mysticism
Remote and wild, Amorgos draws a certain kind of traveller — usually those who love nature, introspection, and a bit of mystery. Its clifftop Hozoviotissa Monastery, crystal-clear bays, and labyrinthine walking trails make it a hidden gem for mindful travel.
Folegandros.
Whether you're dreaming of sipping wine on a caldera cliff, dancing on a beach until sunrise, or hiking to hidden coves where the only soundtrack is the sea, the Greek Islands deliver — and then some. From the iconic hotspots to the quiet corners still flying under the radar, there's an island (or three) to match every traveller’s pace, personality and travel style.
The trick isn’t just picking the “best” island — it’s picking the right one for you. Maybe that's Santorini’s drama, Naxos’s farm-to-table feasts, or Symi’s pastel perfection. Or maybe it’s hopping between them, letting each one offer something new.
Wherever you land, slow down, eat well, dive into the blue, and don’t over-plan it. Because in the Greek Islands, magic tends to happen between the itinerary lines.
