If you’re looking for the perfect holiday spot, Greece is a great choice. Greece is a huge country with so many islands to choose from, each one offering something different.
With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and delicious food, Greece has something to offer everyone. But with so many islands to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. Here is a guide to our 10 favourite Greek islands for every type of holiday!
Crete
If you’re looking for a relaxing family holiday, Crete is the perfect choice. The fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, Crete is a fantastic pick for anyone wanting a well-rounded trip exploring, eating and relaxing!
With its sandy beaches (some of the best in the country) and crystal-clear waters, it’s a great place to spend lazy days by the sea. There are also plenty of activities for kids, such as exploring ancient ruins and swimming in natural pools.
Highlights of Crete include the Minoan ruins and the charming cities of Heraklion and Rethymnon.
Santorini
For couples looking for a lavish romantic getaway, Santorini is the ideal destination. With its stunning sunsets and incredible views, it’s no wonder this island is such a popular honeymoon spot. There are also plenty of romantic restaurants and hotels to choose from.
Santorini means luxury relaxation and offers an ideal break for couples looking to get away from it all with sunsets, delicious wine and beautiful buildings. From the tumbling towns to built on side of an extinct volcano to the renowned white-washed buildings and vivid blue sea, the entire island is a camera-ready destination.
Santorini is also a great place for wine lovers, as it’s home to some of Greece’s best vineyards. Highlights of the island include the towns of Oia and Fira, and the breathtaking views from Santorini Caldera.
Mykonos
If you’re looking for an action-packed luxury holiday, Mykonos is the place for you. With its vibrant nightlife and stylish beach bars, it’s the perfect destination for party-goers. There are also plenty of water sports to try, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Known as the “Island of the Winds”, it attracts surfers and sailors from around the world.
Some of the best things to do in Mykonos include exploring the island’s many beaches, visiting the windmills, and taking a boat trip to nearby Delos.
Kos
Kos is a great island for beaches, and a favourite for family holidays and all-inclusive resorts. Kos is also one of the only “bicycle-friendly” islands with lots of designated parking spaces and cycling routes, such as the 13km stretch from Psalidi to Faros beach.
Kos is ideal for a multi generational family holiday as it has a lively nightlife but is still relaxed enough for young children. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, such as water parks, mini golf and go-karting.
Our highlights of Kos include exploring the medieval castle, visiting the Asklepieion ruins, and enjoying the views from Dikeos mountain.
Corfu
Located just off the coast of Greece, Corfu is a popular choice for beach holidays. Corfu is known as “the emerald island”, as its the greenest Greek island with lush olive trees, beautiful vineyards and alluring mountain peaks.
We think Corfu is great for history buffs and culture seekers. Its a melting pot of western influence from its Venetian, French and English inhabitants, and has a truly multicultural charm.
Corfu has it all; sandy beaches, clear waters and relaxed atmosphere, it’s no wonder this island is such a hit with tourists. With over a 600,000 miles of beaches, the island is ideal for both families and couples looking to get away.
The lovely Nissaki and Mirtiotissa villages are two favourites among visitors. Don’t forget to try the local speciality, Sofrito (a stew made with beef or chicken). Other highlights include taking a boat trip to the nearby Paxi islands, visiting the Old Town of Corfu and exploring the Achilleion Palace.
Rhodes
Rhodes is a winner for to keep everyone happy. It has stunning beaches, a wooded and mountainous interior, Crusader castles, frescoed churches, and of course eight months of sunshine each year.
Rhodes’ fortified old town, with its sandstone construction, flying buttresses over cobbled roads, minarets, and palm trees everywhere, is a must see. The Palace of the Grand Master, home to the Knights Hospitaller in the 14th century, is one of the most impressive buildings.
Don’t miss out on a trip to the Acropolis of Lindos, one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites. Perched atop a rocky outcrop above the town of Lindos, it offers incredible views over the Aegean Sea.
We also recommend taking a boat trip to one of Rhodes’ many nearby islands, such as Symi or Halki.
And of course, no visit to Rhodes would be complete without trying the local delicacies. Be sure to try some Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), Mousaka (a Greek lasagne made with eggplant), and Dolmades (stuffed vine leaves).
Kefalonia
Kefalonia is the largest island in the Ionian Sea, home to crystal clear waters, stunning stretches of sand, picturesque villages and rich biodiversity.
In addition to the monk seals “monachus monachus,” snorkelling and diving enthusiasts might encounter the uncommon “caretta caretta” sea turtles, which take refuge here.
Kefalonia is also a great place to try some delicious seafood. We recommend Sfela, a traditional Kefalonian dish made with small fried fish, and Skordalia, a garlic and potato dip.
Other highlights of Kefalonia include visiting the Melissani Cave, taking a boat trip to the nearby island of Ithaca, and exploring the Drogorati Cave.
Zante
Zante, which is well-known as Greece’s party island, has a lively nightlife as well as beautiful beaches. The party area is mostly focused on the southern coastline of the island.
However, further north you’ll find forested wilderness and traditional rural villages, as well as spectacular scenery on the west coast. The gorgeous Navagio (Shipwreck Bay) Beach, which has white pebbles and sparkling turquoise seas, is one of the island’s trademarks.
Zante is a great place to try some traditional Greek food. We recommend Spanakopita (spinach pie), Dolma (stuffed vine leaves) and Loukoumades (deep-fried dough balls).
Other highlights include exploring the island’s many caves, such as the Blue Caves and Keri Caves, and visiting the Shipwreck Museum.
Milos
Milos is an island for adventurers! The stunning sandy beaches and the breath taking volcanic coastal formations of Milos Island are a sight to behold. The Rainbow-colored Klima Village is also a must visit, with its pastel rainbow coloured houses and charming atmosphere.
Don’t forget to try the delicious Loukoumades, a traditional Greek dessert made with fried dough balls and honey. Other highlights include exploring the Sarakiniko Beach, taking a boat trip to the nearby island of Kythnos, and visiting the Catacombs of Milos.
Naxos
Naxos has a lot to offer for nature enthusiasts. Naxos has it all: high mountains, productive valleys, lush green gorges, magnificent seaside views, and ancient villages perched on the tops of hilltops.
The island is also known for its rich cultural programs and special events, such as the Naxos Art Festival, Wine Festival, and Fisherman’s Feast, which takes place in September each year!
Other highlights include exploring the Venetian Castle, taking a boat trip to the nearby island of Paros, and visiting the Archaeological Museum of Naxos.
Greece is a great choice for any holiday. With so many islands to choose from, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you. This is just a small sampling of Greece’s many islands, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. No matter which island you choose, you’re sure to have an amazing time! Greece is truly a paradise on earth. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Contact Kerry by clicking the button below to get advice or a quote for your next holiday.
Comments