3 Greek Islands Named Among Best in World

The Greek islands of Milos, Paros, and Crete have all been named to Travel + Leisure‘s top 25 islands in the world for 2022.

The volcanic Greek island of Milos was ranked No. 4 while Paros landed at No. 12, and Greece’s largest island, Crete, ranked as No. 22.

Travel + Leisure readers voted for the World’s Best list, choosing Ischia, Italy, as the top island destination, followed by the Maldives; then Bali, Indonesia, to round out the top three.

In Greece, where tourists are flocking to the islands this summer, all three named to the top 25 list have something unique to offer.

Milos

Milos’ ancient ruins and dazzling cuisine were two of the biggest draws, according to Travel + Leisure. But that’s just the tip of the island when it comes to describing Milos.

The most southwestern island in the Cyclades, it has picturesque fishing villages, 75 beaches and underwater sea caves. It is also home to the Venus of Milos statue, which was found on the island but is now on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris. It boasts stunning white rock formations of Kleftiko and Sarakiniko beaches, as well as the rich-colored Klima village and Plaka’s sunset.

Conde Nast Traveller previously recommended Milos for its “photogenic and dramatic coastline.” The island, the setting of a recent collection from French fashion house of Dior, possesses a captivating, colorful landscape.

Paros

Paros is also among the most popular Greek island getaways. Located in the cluster of the Cycladic islands, it boasts unique beaches with bright blue waters, fish tavernas, whitewashed houses, and traditional, Cycladic churches.

Among the different villages to visit, Naoussa, originally an old Venetian port, is probably one of the most well-known parts of Paros and one of the most picturesque. For beach beauty and those keen on water sports, such as diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing, Santa Maria is the place to go.

In 2020, Travel + Leisure readers named Paros the best island in Europe.

Crete

Crete is well-known as a remarkable place for its ancient history, landscape, myriad beaches, and unique cities and towns.

Chania, the heart-stopping city on the northwest coast of the island, is historically significant and a hotspot for young and modern Greeks. Excavations near and within the city have revealed some of its history to modern day Greeks, and archaeologists have been able to find evidence of the city’s Minoan history, as well, as its more distant past. The prefecture of Chania also holds some of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Crete.

Its capital, Heraklion, an ancient city, is perhaps underappreciated for its many attractions. It is perhaps most well-known for its stunning cathedrals, old towns, restaurants, and boutiques.

Europe’s oldest known civilization, which flourished on Crete between 2,700 BC and 1,450 BC, also served as a trading center for gold, ceramics, and the precious spice and dye, saffron.