What are the most beautiful islands in Greece? Greece has over 6,000 islands, of which only a small part is inhabitable. And every Greek island is unique and has its own charm. But which is the most beautiful? Where should you go on vacation? That always has been a question for us when planning a trip to Greece. We have collected the most beautiful islands in Greece for you!
This is How you Discover the Most Beautiful Islands of Greece
The island of Crete is the most famous of all the Greek islands. But also Santorini, Kos and Rhodes probably sound familiar. What is special about these islands is that they are all so different, even though they all belong to the same country. One island is very green, while the other is special because it is so romantic and authentic. To discover the most beautiful islands in Greece, you can go island hopping: by boat from one island to the other. And that is easier than you think!
Flying to Athens is the easiest. From there, you can travel to the first island. To island hop, take the ferry. Some islands are so close to each other that you only have to sail for an hour; for others, you are on the boat for a few hours. But that is certainly not a punishment on Greek waters!
Santorini
The most beautiful island of them all is Santorini. The picture-perfect island with the famous white houses with blue roofs. Santorini is a beautiful island to spend a few days on. You can already see them when you arrive; huge rocks that rise from the sea with picturesque villages on top. This view alone is worth travelling to Santorini. Although the white houses on the coast attract attention, the rest of the island can certainly be there as well. Don’t miss the north of Santorini either. There you will find the most beautiful and tastiest wine farms.
Santorini is a volcanic island with a still active volcano. That also means that most beaches on this beautiful island have grey/black sand. The most beautiful beaches are located on the east and south sides of the island, such as Kamari Beach and Red Beach.
Santorini is one of the most popular islands in Greece, which means it is busy (avoid the summer months if you can). Be sure to explore the narrow streets of the town of Oia. To stay overnight, book a night – or two – in a cliffside hotel so you can enjoy your own private sunset. They are phenomenal here!
Kefalonia is definitely one of the most beautiful islands in Greece! And at the same time, the best-kept secret in the country.
Cephalonia
The Greek island of Kefalonia may not be well known, but that is precisely the strength of this place. The masses have not yet found this beautiful island, which makes it the perfect holiday destination. Kefalonia is definitely one of the most beautiful islands in Greece! And at the same time, the best-kept secret in the country.
Kefalonia is located just north of the well-known and beloved Zakynthos. Delicious wines are made. If you are a real beach lover, then this is a very good choice for a relaxing holiday: these are the most beautiful beaches of Kefalonia. Although, you can certainly also make incredible hikes.
The interior of the island of Kefalonia is exceptionally beautiful: lush with colorful flowers and plants. The coastline is bursting with quiet coves and Caribbean-looking beaches. Myrtos beach is the most beautiful of them all: a snow-white beach with a blue sea that tries to enchant you. In the lovely village, you will experience real Greece: pure flavours and smells. It won’t get much better than this anytime soon.
Zakynthos
The island of Zakynthos often appears in the list of the most beautiful islands in the world. Anyone who sets foot ashore immediately understands why that is the case. Zakynthos is one of the best Greece has to offer.
There is much to discover on this idyllic island: from an impressive history to beautiful sandy beaches and a crystal clear sea. Navagio Beach – Shipwreck Beach – is the most famous spot of Zakynthos. From a high cliff, you can see the infamous smuggler ship Panagiotis; a phenomenal view. But that’s not all: the small villages, olive groves and hidden coves make this one of the most beautiful islands in Greece!
Zakynthos Town is a must-see, with a lot of good restaurants. The small beach of Porto Limnionas is one of the lesser-known but oh-so-beautiful beaches on the island. Or rent a boat and go out on the water: that’s really enjoyable.
Crete
Although Crete is famous and notorious, this is definitely one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. Crete combines mountains and sea with a rich Greek history. It is also the largest island and has so much to offer! One moment you imagine yourself in the Caribbean, the next moment you are strolling through relics from Greek antiquity.
For the most beautiful beaches of Crete, you have to go to the extreme northwestern tip of the island. The lagoon of Balos, on the peninsula of Gramvoúsa, can safely be called the most beautiful beach in Greece and should not be missed.
Renting a car in Crete is definitely recommended if you want to see a lot. The cities of Heraklion, Chaniá and Rethymnon are special to visit. Peninsula Gramvousa is a must (so beautiful!), and in small villages, you will find many old monasteries to soak up some culture. You will not get bored quickly on this island. The perfect choice for those who want to discover and do a lot!
Elafonisos
The island of Elafonisos (Peloponnese) is exceptionally beautiful. And remarkably quiet, making them so attractive. Most people come there for a day, which makes it the ultimate enjoyment in the evening. You will also find the most beautiful beach in Greece on Elafonisos: Simos Beach. This beach is not only beautiful to see, but it is also very huge. Don’t forget your snorkel set when you are at Simos Beach.
Elafonisos is small and friendly. There may not be much to experience, but in terms of beauty, this island beats many other Greek islands. A place to relax. Exactly what a holiday is meant for, right?
To get to the Peloponnese peninsula, it is best to travel to the city of Kalamata (where the best olives in the world come from!). Definitely stay there for a few days, it is one of the nicest places in Greece.
Our Final Word
We believe that Henry Miller said it best: “It takes a lifetime to discover Greece, but it only takes an instant to fall in love with her.” It does take some planning and you want to do more than just go from island to island and check off the tourist attractions. The real magic of Greece is the people. It is not only the landscape and ruins. Spend some time there. Go to less islands but immerse yourself in the food and people. Once you do, you will go back time and time again and discover Greece all over again.
