The islands of Greece are the primary charm of the country and play a key role in its culture and tradition. There are 6,000 islands and islets scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas. A large amount of diversity can be found across all these islands, e.g. coastal caves, pebble beaches, sheltered coves, and more. If you are looking for a perfect Mediterranean experience, then Greece is the place to visit.
Naxos, The Greenest Island
Naxos is the greenest and the largest island of Cyclades in the Aegean Sea. The island is large enough to not seem crowded even during the peak of tourist season. There are many important ancient ruins and medieval structures, as well as some less significant ones. Many beaches can be found near the capital of the island known as Naxos Town. This windy island is perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Corfu, Storybook Land
Corfu feels more Mediterranean than most other Greek islands because of centuries of conquest by many different cultures, particularly the nearby Venetians. The island is generally characterized by a number of mythical images. The Liston Arcade and the iconic mansions in the city are equally as majestic. Venetians, English, French, Russians, and Greeks all have lived and prospered on Corfu and they all left their mark on the various sights and attractions of the island.
Crete, Land of Contrasting Landscapes
Crete has it all: volumes of history, decadent local dishes, dramatic landscape, and gorgeous beaches. The island is separated into four regions: Lassithi, Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania, and you could easily spend many days in each one. The good news is, Crete is not very large, so you can explore multiple attractions and areas in one visit. History and beaches are the two biggest attractions of this island.
Santorini, Hues of Blue and White
Between the all-white architecture contrasted with blue-domed roofs and the golden-hour sunsets, Santorini is the definition of picture perfect. It is one of the most luxurious travel destinations of Greece. Tourists can relax in the sun with a refreshing cocktail or spend time in an infinity pool located at the edge of a cliff, enjoying a stunning view of the Aegean.
Mykonos, Iconic Windmills
Mykonos is certainly one of the most popular Greek islands. The cosmopolitan island offers just about everything, satisfying the appetite of visitors for luxury and adventure. Mykonos is consistently voted as the top destination in Greece for summer vacation because of its five-star service, award-winning restaurants, dreamy villas, iconic windmills, luxury hotels, and amazing beaches.
Rhodes, A Little Gem
The landscape of Rhodes is full of eye-catching natural beauty, rich history, and endless attractions, making it one of the most popular destinations for holidays in Greece. Traditional taverns serve amazing local delicacies and tourists can find a lot more to do with the island boasting expansive sandy beaches, emerald green waters, castles, ruins of ancient civilizations, and gourmet restaurants.
Few words inspire travel wanderlust more than the Greek Islands. The above-listed are the top recommendations if you are looking for a perfect Mediterranean vacation in Greece. Some of these islands are very popular while others are definitely worth exploring.
Photos by: James Ting, Anton Lammert, Chris Karidis, Evangelos Mpikakis, Orlando Brooke, Jimmy Teoh, Antonio Magri