Greece has more than 6,000 islands, of which around 200 are inhabited. No wonder many travellers ask themselves: which Greek islands are really worth visiting? During our travels through Greece, we visited various islands in the Cyclades and discovered that each island has a completely different feel to it. From the white-washed streets of Santorini to the peaceful walking trails on Sifnos and the spectacular beaches of Milos.
In this blog, we share our favourite Greek islands, including their atmosphere, highlights and the type of traveller they’re best suited to. This will help you easily decide which island – or combination of islands – best suits your holiday in Greece.
General information on Greece
Are you planning your trip to Greece? Then check out our tips for the best travel period, daily budget and transport in and to Greece. You can find all information about Greece here.
The most beautiful Greek islands
There are so many Greek islands that it feels almost impossible to choose. Some islands are known for their white villages and blue domes, whilst others are renowned for their rugged natural beauty, hidden beaches or a peaceful atmosphere. During our travels through Greece, we discovered above all that every island feels completely different. And that’s precisely what makes Greece so wonderful.
Below, we’ve listed our favourite Greek islands: from well-known classics such as Santorini and Mykonos to quieter islands such as Sifnos. This will help you decide which island best suits your trip.
1. Milos
As far as we’re concerned, Milos is definitely one of the most beautiful Greek islands. This volcanic island has a landscape that’s completely different from that of many other islands in the Cyclades. Think white rock formations, clear blue water, colourful fishing villages and beaches that feel almost otherworldly.
The most famous place on Milos is, of course, Sarakiniko Beach. With its white rocks, it feels as though you’re walking across a lunar landscape here. But Milos has much more to offer than just this famous photo spot. We particularly loved the small fishing villages such as Klima, Mandrakia and Firopotamos. The colourful boathouses, the calm waters and the laid-back atmosphere make this island truly special.
Milos is ideal if you love beautiful beaches, riding around on a scooter or quad bike, and discovering places that feel a little less crowded than Santorini or Mykonos. For us, Milos was one of the biggest surprises of our tour of Greece. Want to find out more about Milos? Read our blog: 10 of the best sights in Milos, Greece.
Milos is perfect for: beach lovers, couples, photographers and travellers looking for a mix of beautiful natural scenery and quiet villages.
2. Santorini
Santorini is perhaps the best-known Greek island, and to be honest, there’s a good reason for that. The white houses, blue domes, narrow streets and views over the caldera are just as beautiful in real life as they are in photos. Oia and Fira are particularly popular, but villages such as Pyrgos and Megalochori are also well worth a visit.
That said, Santorini is also an island where you need to keep your expectations realistic. It can get busy, especially in high season and around sunset in Oia. But if you plan your visit to avoid these times, Santorini remains a beautiful island to visit at least once. We were particularly impressed by the views, the atmosphere in the smaller villages and the hike between Fira and Oia.
Santorini isn’t necessarily the island you’d go to for deserted beaches, but it is the place to go for romantic views, unique accommodation and an iconic slice of Greece. Check out our blog on the most beautiful sights in Santorini, including budget tips and beautiful hotels.
Santorini is perfect for: couples, photographers, honeymooners and first-time visitors to the Cyclades.
3. Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and a great choice if you’re looking for plenty of variety. The island is greener than many other Cycladic islands and offers a lovely mix of beaches, mountain villages, ancient ruins and cosy tavernas. Yet in many places, Naxos feels less crowded than Santorini or Mykonos.
What makes Naxos so appealing is that you can find a bit of everything here. You can relax on long sandy beaches, stroll through traditional villages, go on road trips through the countryside and enjoy delicious food in local restaurants. Naxos is an excellent choice, particularly for travellers who don’t just want to lie on the beach but also want to experience some of the local island life. Naxos is also a lovely island for families, as the beaches are often wide and accessible, and there are plenty of facilities without it feeling too crowded.
Naxos is perfect for: families, beach lovers, walkers and travellers looking for a change of scenery.
4. Sifnos
Sifnos is one of our personal favourites. This island is far less well-known than Santorini, Paros or Mykonos, but that’s precisely why we liked it so much. Don’t expect any major attractions or world-famous photo spots here. Sifnos is much more about atmosphere, tranquillity, good food and traditional villages.
The island is renowned for its excellent restaurants and local cuisine. Everywhere you look, you’ll find cosy tavernas where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner. Sifnos is also a wonderful island for walking. There are several walking routes across the island, taking you past little churches, viewpoints and whitewashed villages. We found Kastro in particular to be one of the most beautiful spots on Sifnos. This old village is beautifully situated high above the sea and has exactly the peaceful Cycladic atmosphere you’d hope for. As far as we’re concerned, Sifnos is ideal if you want to escape the hustle and bustle for a while and are looking for a more authentic Greek island. Want to find out more? Take a look at our tips for Sifnos!
Sifnos is perfect for: those seeking peace and quiet, walkers, foodies and travellers looking for a less touristy island.
5. Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the best-known Greek islands and is particularly famous for its luxury hotels, beach clubs, white-washed streets and vibrant nightlife. The island is popular with travellers who enjoy beautiful accommodation, good restaurants and lively evenings.
That said, Mykonos also has a quieter side, especially if you stay away from the busiest areas or visit the island in the early or late season. The narrow streets of Mykonos Town are beautiful and the famous windmills remain an iconic sight. The beaches are lovely too, although you’ll often find they’re more expensive here than on other islands. Mykonos isn’t the most budget-friendly island in Greece, but it’s a good choice if you love style, beach clubs and a lively atmosphere. Fancy a carefree holiday? Take a look at these all inclusive Greece trips from Tui!
Mykonos is perfect for: nightlife, luxury travellers, groups of friends and travellers who want to combine the beach with a night out.
6. Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest island and is, in fact, almost a destination in its own right. You could easily spend two weeks here without getting bored. The island boasts beautiful beaches, charming towns, rugged gorges, mountain villages and a wealth of culture.
For a first trip to Greece, Crete is a brilliant choice, as it allows you to experience many different sides of the country. We did this ourselves when we were teenagers! Visit towns such as Chania and Rethymnon, hike through the Samaria Gorge or discover famous beaches such as Balos and Elafonissi. Crete is also ideal for families, as there are plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and activities. Crete feels less like a small island for island-hopping and more like a complete destination for a round-trip holiday. That’s precisely why it’s a good choice if you don’t want to combine several islands but are looking for plenty of variety.
Crete is perfect for: families, road trippers, nature lovers and travellers who want to explore one versatile island.
7. Paros
Paros has become increasingly popular in recent years, and we can certainly see why. The island strikes a lovely balance between charming villages, beautiful beaches, lovely restaurants and a lively atmosphere. Naoussa, in particular, is one of the best-known places on Paros. This old fishing village is full of narrow streets, white houses, boutiques and restaurants.
We also loved Lefkes. This little mountain village feels much more peaceful and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can also easily take a day trip from Paros to Antiparos, a smaller island with lovely beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Paros is a good choice if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere but want to avoid the extreme crowds of Mykonos. You’ll find plenty of great places to eat and go out, as well as quiet beaches and traditional villages. Want to know what’s worth doing? Read our tips for Paros.
Paros is perfect for: couples, groups of friends, photographers and travellers looking to combine a great atmosphere, the beach and a friendly vibe.
8. Zakynthos
Zakynthos is best known for Navagio Beach, the famous beach with the shipwreck nestled between towering white cliffs. Chances are you’ve already seen a photo of this beach somewhere. But Zakynthos has more to offer than just this one well-known spot.
The island has stunning bays, crystal-clear blue water and lovely boat trips past caves and beaches. Zakynthos is also known for the turtles that live around the island, particularly near Laganas Bay. If you enjoy swimming, snorkelling and boat trips, this is a lovely destination. Zakynthos is popular and can get busy in some places, but if you seek out the right spots, you’ll also find quiet bays and beautiful viewpoints.
Zakynthos is perfect for: beach lovers, boat trips, families and travellers looking for crystal-clear blue water.
9. Corfu
Corfu feels very different from the Cyclades. Whilst islands such as Santorini and Paros are known for their white houses and arid landscapes, Corfu is, in contrast, green, lush and full of Venetian influences. The island lies off the west coast of Greece and is part of the Ionian Islands.
Here you’ll find green hills, charming villages, beautiful bays and a picturesque old town. Corfu Town is definitely worth a visit thanks to its blend of Greek, Italian and Venetian influences. What’s more, the island is a great choice for families and travellers who like to combine nature and the beach. Corfu is also convenient: there are frequent direct flights there and you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options. This makes it an accessible choice for a holiday in Greece.
Corfu is perfect for: families, nature lovers, couples and travellers looking for a green Greek island.
10. Amorgos
Amorgos is one of the lesser-known islands of the Cyclades, and that is precisely what makes it so interesting. The island is wilder, quieter and more authentic than many of the better-known islands. You don’t come here for luxury beach clubs or bustling promenades, but for walking trails, impressive views and peaceful villages.
One of the best-known sights on Amorgos is the Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery, built against a steep rock face. That alone makes the island well worth a visit. What’s more, Amorgos has a relaxed atmosphere and still feels like a place where tourism hasn’t taken over completely. Amorgos is particularly well suited to travellers who like to look beyond the well-known islands and who enjoy peace and quiet, nature and walking.
Amorgos is perfect for: those seeking peace and quiet, walkers, couples and travellers who want to discover a lesser-known Greek island.
Which Greek island is right for you?
Choosing the most beautiful Greek island is tricky, as every island has its own unique atmosphere. The best choice depends mainly on what you’re looking for on your holiday. Are you mainly after beaches, peace and quiet, and nature? Or would you prefer charming villages, restaurants and a lively atmosphere? We’ll help you get started below.
For beach lovers
Are you mainly looking for beautiful beaches and crystal-clear blue water? Then Milos, Zakynthos and Naxos are good choices. Personally, we found Milos to be one of the most beautiful islands for beaches, because the coastline is so varied. From the white, moon-like landscape at Sarakiniko to small fishing coves and hidden beaches: it feels as though you’re constantly discovering something new.
Zakynthos is particularly popular for its stunning bays and boat trips, whilst Naxos, on the other hand, has long sandy beaches where you can easily spend the whole day.
For those seeking peace and quiet
Would you prefer to avoid the crowds and visit a quieter island instead? Then have a look at Sifnos or Amorgos. We loved Sifnos for its relaxed atmosphere, good restaurants and lovely walking routes. The island feels touristy enough to make travelling there comfortable, but not so busy that you’re constantly jostling with the crowds.
Amorgos is a little more rugged and quieter. This island is particularly well suited to travellers who enjoy walking, scenic viewpoints and a more authentic atmosphere.
For couples
Santorini, Milos and Paros are all lovely choices for a romantic getaway. Santorini is, of course, famous for its sunsets and unique hotels overlooking the caldera. It’s busier and more expensive, but it remains a beautiful island for a special overnight stay or honeymoon.
Milos is a bit more laid-back and adventurous, whilst Paros offers a lovely mix of cosy restaurants, pretty streets and lovely beaches. If we were to choose just one combination for a romantic trip, we’d go for Santorini and Milos.
For families
Are you travelling with children? If so, Crete, Corfu and Naxos are lovely islands. Crete is large and diverse, offering a wide choice of beaches, accommodation and activities. Corfu is green, accessible and has plenty of family-friendly spots. Naxos is a bit smaller in scale, but has wide beaches and a lovely, relaxed atmosphere.
These islands are also convenient because there are often good transport links and you don’t have to rely on complicated ferry routes.
For nightlife and a good time
Are you mainly looking for fun nights out, beach clubs and a lively atmosphere? Then Mykonos or Paros are the obvious choices. Mykonos is the best-known island for its nightlife and luxury beach clubs, but it’s also one of the most expensive islands in Greece.
Paros is a bit more accessible and feels less exclusive. You’ll find cosy bars, restaurants and a lovely atmosphere here, especially in Naoussa.
Island hopping in Greece
Can’t decide between all these beautiful Greek islands? Then island-hopping in Greece might just be the best solution. The Cyclades, in particular, are ideal for combining several islands in a single trip. The ferry services are well organised and many of the islands are relatively close to one another. We think island hopping in Greece is one of the best ways to explore the country. For example, you could start on Santorini, then travel on to Milos, followed by Sifnos, and finish on Paros or Naxos. This way, you’ll get a lovely mix of well-known highlights, quiet islands, beaches, villages and local atmosphere all in one trip.
Our favourite itinerary for a 2–3-week trip through the Cyclades
Santorini → Milos → Sifnos → Paros → Naxos → Athens
Are you short on time? If so, you could skip Naxos or opt for a route from Santorini to Milos and Paros. Do you have more time? If so, you could add islands such as Amorgos, Ios or Folegandros.
Why island hopping is so much fun
The best thing about island hopping is that you’re not tied to just one atmosphere. Santorini feels impressive and iconic, Milos is adventurous and full of stunning beaches, Sifnos is peaceful and a culinary delight, Paros is lively, and Naxos offers plenty of variety. This makes your trip feel much more varied than if you were to stay on just one island.
What’s more, travelling by ferry is part of the experience. You board the boat, watch one island slowly fade from view, and a few hours later you arrive at a completely different place. That really gives your trip that carefree holiday feeling.
A practical tip for your route
Are you travelling in July or August? Make sure you book your ferries and accommodation in good time, as popular routes can fill up quickly. Are you travelling in May, June or September? If so, you’ll often have more flexibility and prices are usually lower.
Would you like to know exactly how to plan a route like this, which islands we combined and how the ferry services work? Then read our in-depth blog about island hopping through Greece, in which we share our full itinerary through the Cyclades, including practical tips, costs, transport and accommodation.
Tip: Rather have everything arranged at once? Then discover the all-inclusive holiday options from TUI. Did you know that they even offer complete tours of Greece? That way you can explore multiple islands right away!
Frequently asked questions about the most beautiful Greek islands
1. Which is the most beautiful Greek island to visit on your first trip?
Are you visiting Greece for the first time? If so, Santorini, Crete, Paros and Naxos are excellent choices. Santorini offers its iconic white houses and spectacular views, whilst Crete offers plenty of variety with its beaches, culture and natural beauty. Paros and Naxos are ideal islands if you want to explore the Cyclades without the crowds of Santorini or Mykonos.
2. Which Greek island has the most beautiful beaches?
For beach lovers, Milos, Zakynthos and Naxos are highly recommended. Milos is known for its unique beaches such as Sarakiniko, whilst Zakynthos is famous for Navagio Beach. Naxos, on the other hand, has long sandy beaches where you can relax to your heart’s content.
3. Which are the least touristy Greek islands?
Are you looking for an authentic Greek island without the crowds? If so, Sifnos, Amorgos and Folegandros are excellent choices. These islands have a relaxed atmosphere and traditional villages, and attract fewer visitors than popular destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos.
4. Which is better: Santorini or Mykonos?
That depends on what you’re looking for. Santorini is known for its stunning views, romantic atmosphere and sunsets. Mykonos is popular for its nightlife, beach clubs and upmarket vibe. For couples, we’d tend to recommend Santorini, whilst Mykonos is better suited to travellers who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
5. How many days do you need per Greek island?
For most Greek islands, we recommend staying for at least 2 to 4 nights. On smaller islands such as Sifnos or Paros, you can explore the highlights in a couple of days, whilst on larger islands such as Crete, you can easily spend a week or more.
6. Can you visit several Greek islands on a single trip?
Yes, that’s exactly what makes Greece so lovely. The Cyclades in particular are perfect for island-hopping. Islands such as Santorini, Milos, Sifnos, Paros and Naxos are well connected by ferry, making them easy to combine during a single tour.
7. Which Greek island is the cheapest?
Naxos, Sifnos and Amorgos are generally cheaper than popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. Accommodation and restaurants in particular are often more affordable here, whilst you can still enjoy beautiful beaches and authentic villages.
8. Which is more beautiful: Crete or the Cyclades?
Crete is ideal if you want to explore one island in depth and enjoy a mix of culture, nature and beaches. The Cyclades, on the other hand, are perfect if you want to combine several islands in a single trip. Which is the better choice depends mainly on your travel style and how much time you have.
9. Which Greek islands are suitable for island-hopping?
The best islands for island-hopping are Santorini, Milos, Sifnos, Paros, Naxos, Ios and Amorgos. These islands are relatively close to one another and have good ferry connections. This makes it easy to visit several islands during a single holiday.
Which is the most beautiful Greek island is, of course, a matter of personal taste. Are you looking for breathtaking views and romantic sunsets? Then Santorini is a brilliant choice. Or are you looking for beautiful beaches and fewer crowds? Then we’d choose Milos or Sifnos without a doubt. The beauty of Greece is that every island has its own character and that you can easily combine visits to several islands.
Do you have time? If so, we recommend visiting several islands on a single trip. It was precisely this island-hopping that made our trip through Greece so special and showed us just how many different facets this beautiful country has.
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