Explore these Beautiful Islands in Greece

If you love to travel or explore new regions, then the islands in Greece have lots to offer. From busy tourist hotspots to quiet, unspoiled getaways, these Mediterranean gems pack history, beauty, and authentic Greek culture into unforgettable destinations.

In this guide, you will get to know about the famous islands in Greece for tourists, detailing each island’s unique character and attractions. You’ll also find information on weather, locations, activities, and transportation to help you plan the perfect Greek island-hopping adventure.

1. Crete

Crete, the largest of all islands in Greece, has both historical significance and stunning natural beauty. This 160-mile-long island features dramatic mountain ranges, fertile valleys, and over 600 miles of coastline with pristine beaches ranging from golden sands to hidden pebbled coves.

Home to Europe’s earliest advanced civilization, the Minoans, Crete offers an archaeological treasure trove including the Palace of Knossos. The island maintains its authentic character through traditional villages, local cuisine, and warm hospitality.

Weather: 50-85°F (10-30°C) depending on season

Location:Crete, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Archaeological sites typically 8 AM – 5 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Knossos Palace: €20, varies by attraction)

What to do:

• Explore the Palace of Knossos, the ceremonial center of Minoan civilization dating back to 1900 BC with restored royal chambers and vibrant frescoes.
• Hike the Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest canyon at 16 km, through towering cliffs, abandoned villages, and rare wildlife habitats.
• Visit Elafonissi Beach with its pink-tinted sand and shallow turquoise waters, perfect for families and photography enthusiasts.
• Sample authentic Cretan cuisine in mountain villages like Anogia, where family-run tavernas serve local specialties.

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2. Euboea (Evia)

Euboea (Evia), Greece’s second-largest island, remains remarkably unspoiled despite being connected to the mainland by two bridges. This proximity makes it accessible yet overlooked by mass tourism, preserving its authentic character with traditional villages, and thermal springs.

The island stretches 110 miles with dramatic variations in scenery, from the forested mountains of the north to the fertile plains and beaches of the south. Evia offers visitors a genuine Greek experience without the crowds found on more famous islands in Greece.

Weather: 45-90°F (7-32°C) varying by season

Location:Euboea, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Thermal springs hours vary by location)

Entry Fee: Free (Some beaches have small parking fees)

What to do:

• Soak in the therapeutic waters of Edipsos Thermal Springs, where over 80 hot springs have attracted visitors since Roman times.
• Hike through the Dimosari Gorge near Karystos, a 10 km trail featuring cascading waterfalls and natural swimming pools.
• Visit the medieval Venetian fortress town of Karababa Castle in Chalkida and witness the unique “crazy waters” phenomenon.
• Explore the traditional mountain villages of northern Evia with stone houses, cobbled streets, and family-run tavernas.

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3. Rhodes

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, boasts over 300 days of sunshine and 3,000 years of history. This island combines medieval European architecture with ancient Greek ruins and modern beach resorts, creating a multi-layered destination popular with history buffs and sun-seekers alike.

Once home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the island now captivates visitors with its perfectly preserved Old Town. The UNESCO-listed medieval city remains Europe’s oldest inhabited medieval town.

Weather: 50-90°F (10-32°C) with mild winters and hot summers

Location:Rhodes, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Medieval City: 24 hours, Palace of Grand Master: 8 AM – 8 PM in summer)

Entry Fee: Free (Palace of Grand Master: €10, Archaeological sites have separate fees)

What to do:

• Wander through the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site with the Street of Knights and Palace of the Grand Master.
• Relax at Tsambika Beach, a stretch of golden sand with shallow turquoise waters overlooked by a hilltop monastery.
• Visit the Acropolis of Lindos, an ancient citadel with Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences 116 meters above sea level.
• Experience vibrant nightlife on Greece islands along Bar Street in Rhodes Town, with bars and clubs open until dawn.

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4. Corfu

Corfu, the emerald jewel of the Ionian Sea, stands apart from typical Greek landscapes with its lush green hills and olive groves. The island’s unique character stems from 400 years of Venetian rule, French and British influences, creating a distinctive architectural style and cultural identity.

The island combines the cosmopolitan charm in Corfu Town with secluded beaches, mountain villages, and family-friendly resorts. Known to the Greeks as Kerkyra, Corfu offers a perfect mix of history, natural beauty, and authentic Greek hospitality.

Weather: 45-85°F (7-30°C) with mild, rainy winters and sunny summers

Location:Corfu, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Old Fortress: 8 AM – 8 PM in summer, shorter hours in winter)

Entry Fee: Free (Old Fortress: €6, Achilleion Palace: €10)

What to do:

• Explore Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO site featuring Venetian buildings, French-style arcades, and impressive fortresses.
• Visit Paleokastritsa Monastery, a 13th-century Byzantine structure perched on a cliff overlooking six picture-perfect bays.
• Swim at Canal d’Amour in Sidari, where legend says couples who swim through together will stay in love forever.
• Hike the Corfu Trail, a 220 km path traversing diverse landscapes from olive groves to mountain villages and hidden beaches.

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5. Santorini

Santorini, perhaps the most photographed of all islands in Greece, captivates visitors with its dramatic volcanic landscape and iconic white-washed buildings with blue domes. This Cycladic island actually comprises five islands around a still-active volcano, with cliffs rising 300 meters from a submerged caldera formed by a massive eruption 3,600 years ago.

Beyond its postcard views, Santorini offers archaeological sites, wineries producing distinctive volcanic wines, and culinary traditions shaped by its arid landscape.

Weather: 50-85°F (10-30°C) with mild winters and hot, dry summers

Location:Santorini, Greece

Timings: Year-round (best April-October, Archaeological sites: 8 AM – 8 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Akrotiri Archaeological Site: €20)

What to do:

• Watch the sunset in Oia, where crowds gather to witness the sun dipping below the caldera horizon, painting buildings in golden hues.
• Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site, a preserved Minoan settlement buried under volcanic ash, often called the “Greek Pompeii.”
• Swim at Red Beach, a stunning shoreline backed by towering red volcanic cliffs creating dramatic contrast with deep blue waters.
• Tour Santorini’s wineries to taste distinctive assyrtiko wines, produced from grapes grown in volcanic soil using the unique “koulara” method.

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6. Mykonos

Mykonos stands as the quintessential Greek party island, famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife on Greece islands. This Cycladic gem combines natural beauty with a sophisticated entertainment scene that attracts celebrities, artists, and party-seekers from around the world.

Beyond its reputation for nightlife, Mykonos offers picturesque architecture with its iconic windmills, narrow whitewashed streets of Little Venice, and numerous churches with distinctive blue domes. 

Weather: 50-80°F (10-27°C) with mild winters and warm, windy summers

Location:Mykonos, Greece

Timings: Year-round (peak season May-October, clubs operate midnight to sunrise in summer)

Entry Fee: Free (Beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise may have entrance fees in peak season)

What to do:

• Wander through Mykonos Town (Chora), a labyrinth of narrow marble streets with whitewashed houses and purple bougainvillea.
• Photograph the iconic Windmills of Kato Mili, 16th-century structures perfectly positioned for sunset views.
• Party at Paradise Beach, where world-famous clubs host international DJs and beach parties start in the afternoon.
• Visit the nearby sacred island of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis with remarkable ruins and ancient mosaics

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7. Naxos

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, mountain villages, and ancient sites without the crowds of its more famous neighbors. The island’s fertile landscape produces excellent local cheese, potatoes, and citrus fruits, making it a standout culinary destination among islands in Greece.

With its imposing Portara (temple gateway) greeting visitors at the harbor, Naxos balances tourism with authentic Greek life. The island presents a more relaxed alternative to nearby Mykonos, with family-friendly beaches, excellent hiking opportunities, and traditional villages.

Weather: 50-85°F (10-29°C) with mild winters and sunny summers

Location:Naxos, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Archaeological Museum: 8:30 AM – 3 PM, closed Tuesdays)

Entry Fee: Free (Ancient sites like Temple of Demeter: €5)

What to do:

• Begin your visit at the Portara, the massive 6th century BC marble gateway to an unfinished temple perfectly framing sunset views.
• Explore mountain villages like Apiranthos and Chalki, with marble-paved streets and traditional kafeneia serving local citrus liqueur.
• Relax at Plaka Beach, a 4 km stretch of golden sand with sections ranging from organized beach bars to quiet, undeveloped spots.
• Visit the Temple of Demeter at Sangri, a 6th century BC marble sanctuary set among fertile fields producing famous agricultural products.

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8. Paros

Paros sits at the heart of the Cyclades, offering visitors the quintessential Greek island experience with accessible beaches, traditional villages, and a lively main town. Famous for its fine white marble used in ancient masterpieces like the Venus de Milo, the island combines natural beauty with vibrant island life.

Just a short ferry ride from Athens, Paros strikes a perfect balance between tourism development and authentic Greek character. 

Weather: 50-85°F (10-29°C) with mild winters and warm summers

Location:Paros, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Archaeological Museum: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM, closed Tuesdays)

Entry Fee: Free (Archaeological Museum: €3)

What to do:

• Wander through Parikia with its 13th-century Venetian castle, stunning Panagia Ekatontapiliani church, and lively waterfront.
• Visit picturesque Naoussa village, with its tiny Venetian harbor where colorful fishing boats dock beside seaside tavernas.
• Try windsurfing or kitesurfing at Golden Beach, where consistent Meltemi winds create perfect conditions for water sports.
• Explore the Butterfly Valley in summer, where thousands of Jersey Tiger Moths with orange wings create a magical forest atmosphere.

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9. Zakynthos

Zakynthos, known as Zante to Italian rulers, captivates visitors with its extraordinary landscapes, including the world-famous Shipwreck Beach. This Ionian island combines dramatic white cliffs, azure waters, and lush green countryside in a stunning natural setting that attracts photographers and nature lovers.

This island hosts important loggerhead sea turtle nesting grounds and offers a dual personality with both quiet traditional villages and lively resort towns. 

Weather: 50-90°F (10-32°C) with mild, rainy winters and hot summers

Location:Zakynthos, Greece

Timings: Year-round (peak April-October, Navagio Beach viewpoint: 7 AM – 7 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Boat tours to Shipwreck Beach: €15-25)

What to do:

• View iconic Navagio Beach from the clifftop observation platform, with its shipwreck resting on white pebbles surrounded by turquoise waters.
• Take a boat tour to the Blue Caves, where the water reflects intense blue color onto white walls, creating a magical swimming experience.
• Visit Laganas Beach at dawn between May and August to witness endangered loggerhead sea turtles nesting or hatching.
• Explore traditional mountain villages like Keri, Exo Hora, and Volimes, where local life continues unchanged by tourism.

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10. Kefalonia

Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island, remained relatively unknown until becoming the setting for “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.” Now visitors discover its diverse landscapes featuring dramatic beaches, underground lakes, pine-forested mountains, and charming fishing villages rebuilt after a devastating 1953 earthquake.

The island’s varied terrain creates unique natural phenomena, including disappearing lake waters and stunning blue caves. Kefalonia offers a more relaxed atmosphere than many other islands in Greece, with plenty of space to explore away from crowds.

Weather: 50-85°F (10-29°C) with mild, rainy winters and sunny summers

Location:Kefalonia, Greece

Timings: Year-round (Melissani Cave: 9 AM – 7 PM in summer)

Entry Fee: Free (Melissani Cave boat tour: €10)

What to do:

• Visit Melissani Cave, an underground lake where boat tours reveal stunning blue waters illuminated by sunlight through the open ceiling.
• Relax at Myrtos Beach, where white marble pebbles create striking contrast with deep blue sea surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
• Explore picturesque Assos village, a tiny peninsula with colorful houses around a horseshoe-shaped harbor beneath a Venetian fortress.
• Visit Drogarati Cave, a 150-million-year-old wonder filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites in a chamber with exceptional acoustics.

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11. Lefkada

Lefkada stands apart from other islands in Greece as it connects to the mainland via a floating bridge, making it accessible by car without ferry travel. The island’s western coast features dramatic white cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, creating some of Greece’s most photogenic beaches.

The island combines natural beauty with excellent infrastructure, offering windsurfing conditions rated among the world’s best at Vasiliki Bay. 

Weather: 50-90°F (10-32°C) with mild winters and hot summers

Location:Lefkada, Greece

Timings: Year-round (best April-October)

Entry Fee: Free (Some beaches have parking fees)

What to do:

• Swim at Porto Katsiki, one of Greece’s most dramatic beaches where sheer white cliffs rise above turquoise waters and golden sand.
• Try windsurfing or kitesurfing at Vasiliki Bay, where afternoon thermal winds create perfect conditions for water sports enthusiasts.
• Take a boat trip to nearby islands including Meganisi, Kalamos, and Kastos, with tiny harbors and secluded beaches.
• Explore mountain villages like Karya, Exanthia, and Sfakiotes, where women still practice traditional embroidery techniques.

12. Skiathos

Skiathos, though one of the smallest islands in Greece, packs impressive variety into its compact 12km by 6km dimensions. Part of the Sporades archipelago in the northwest Aegean Sea, this green island is covered with pine forests and ringed by more than 60 beaches of exceptional quality.

The island gained international recognition as a filming location for “Mamma Mia!” but has long been popular with Greek and European visitors. Skiathos combines a cosmopolitan main town with secluded beaches, hiking trails, and a vibrant nightlife.

Weather: 45-85°F (7-29°C) with mild winters and warm summers

Location:Skiathos, Greece

Timings: April-October (high season June-September)

Entry Fee: Free (Boat tours: €20-40)

What to do:

• Relax at Koukounaries Beach, a crescent of golden sand meeting crystal waters backed by protected pine forest and lagoon.
• Visit medieval Bourtzi Fortress on a small peninsula dividing Skiathos Town harbor, housing a cultural center amid pine trees.
• Hike the network of walking paths connecting traditional settlements, monasteries, and the abandoned cliff-top medieval capital Kastro.
• Experience vibrant nightlife on Greece islands at Skiathos Town, with dozens of waterfront bars and clubs open until sunrise.

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FAQs

How many islands are in Greece?

Greece has approximately 6,000 islands and islets scattered throughout the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which only 227 are inhabited. The islands account for about 7,500 kilometers of Greece’s 16,000-kilometer coastline and offer diverse landscapes from volcanic features to lush forests.

What are the most famous islands in Greece for tourists?

The most famous islands in Greece for tourists include Santorini with its iconic white and blue buildings, Mykonos for its vibrant nightlife, Crete for its ancient history and diverse landscapes, Rhodes for medieval architecture, and Corfu for its Venetian influence and green scenery.

Are Greece islands open to public?

Yes, most Greece islands are open to public year-round, though many businesses and attractions operate seasonally from April to October. Major islands maintain essential services throughout winter, while smaller islands may have limited transportation options and facilities during off-season months.

How to reach World Islands Greece?

To reach islands in Greece, visitors typically fly to Athens or directly to islands with international airports (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu, Crete) and then use the extensive ferry network. The Greek ferry system connects all inhabited islands, with more frequent services during summer months and reduced schedules in winter.

Which is the most luxurious island in Greece?

Santorini is widely considered the most luxurious island in Greece, famous for its exclusive cliff-top hotels with infinity pools overlooking the caldera. Mykonos follows closely with high-end beach clubs, designer boutiques, and five-star resorts attracting celebrities and luxury travelers.

Which Greece island is best for families?

Crete is excellent for families due to its diverse attractions, shallow beaches, water parks, and archaeological sites that interest all ages. Corfu, Rhodes, and Naxos are also family-friendly with calm beaches, varied activities, and good infrastructure catering to children’s needs.

What activities can you do on Greece islands?

Greece islands offer diverse activities including swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking ancient paths, exploring archaeological sites, sailing between islands, sampling local cuisine and wines, photographing stunning landscapes, and experiencing both traditional village life and vibrant nightlife on Greece islands.

What is the best time to visit Greece islands?

The best time to visit Greece islands is during the late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when weather remains warm but crowds are smaller and prices lower. July and August offer peak summer conditions but with higher prices and crowds, while winter visits provide authentic experiences but with limited services.