Greek islands are famed around the world as some of the most amazing places to visit.
They are known for their endless sandy beaches, turquoise waters, captivating sunset views, flourishing green landscapes, and magical villages. Greece is an enchanting place full of pleasant surprises and unforgettable vistas.
Some of you might feel like having some peace and quiet, while others might be culture junkies. Some just want to party the summer away near the mesmerizing beaches on the endless summer nights, while dancing to their favorite tunes.
Take some time to explore your options and choose which Greek island will make the cut. Let us help you find your ultimate Greek holiday destination.
Read on to see which of the 20 Greek islands on our list entices you!
Kefalonia is the first on the list for couples. Crowned with pine trees, and ringed with white and golden beaches, with enormous underground caves as well, this island is not to be missed if you love exploring nature.
Kefalonia’s enchanting small port of Fiskardo, with its charming 18th century buildings, emits a feeling of timelessness and eternity to island visitors.
Oia, Santorini. Credit: Greek Reporter.
Known as the “island of love,” the iconic Greek island of Santorini is still a charming romantic destination with its captivating sunset views and traditional Cycladic architecture, despite its overcrowding issues at the height of the tourist season.
Go there during off-peak season to enjoy all that this spectacular island has to offer without all the crowds, so you and your special someone can enjoy the sights in a little more peace and quiet.
Magnificent landscapes, a coastline boasting more than 40 beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and amazing food are just some of what awaits visitors to Milos.
You will fall in love all over again with your partner as you embark on a boat tour of the island or enjoy a fun kayaking experience together upon the aquamarine waters.
Just a short boat ride away from bustling, chaotic Athens, on the small island of Hydra you will not find any cars whatsoever — just the native donkeys. With no must-see list ruling your mind, you can simply chill out and enjoy the effortless bliss that this picturesque island offers.
On Agistri, you can enjoy your vacation time by renting a bike and exploring the small island. One must-see on the island is Dragonera beach, featuring clear green waters.
As you effortlessly float at Dragonera, you will be able to view the dark green forest, which goes down to the water’s edge. Dragonera Beach is also great for camping, a beautiful way to end your day.
Also known as the “Knights’ Island,” Rhodes has a rich historical past, with its many monuments and historical buildings.
The Old Town’s stone-paved alleys, stout walls, and a medieval castle create a completely unique atmosphere, an illusion that you have traveled back to the age of medieval knights.
For nonstop Greek island action, consider Corfu and Lefkada
With historical influences from Venice, the cosmopolitan island of Corfu is a popular choice with travelers.
It has everything from watersports to cultural activities, but you can also just take a walk and enjoy the beautiful scenery and spectacular coastline.
Crete is one of the oldest wine producing regions anywhere, and it boasts its own varieties and flavors.
Where the vineyards and olive groves meet, the landscape is dreamlike.
Glass of wine at Manalis Winery, Sikinos. Credit: Glorious 93/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0
Sikinos was known in ancient Greece as the “island of wine.”
Visit the Manalis winery, where you will be invited to taste different varieties of wine, both sweet and fruity, while enjoying the jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Cyclades from the winery’s balcony.
Religious Pilgrimages: The Greek Islands of Tinos and Patmos
The beautiful Greek island Patmos is also called the “Island of the Apocalypse” because the Bible’s Book of Revelation was written there by the Apostle John.
Today, one of the island’s main attractions is the “Cave of the Apocalypse.”
Another important religious monument is the large monastery located above Chora (the island’s capital), which is dedicated to Saint John, who lived out his life on the island after being banished there by the authorities.
For some family Greek island time: Antiparos and Koufonisia
Octopus drying on Antiparos. Credit: Bgabel at wikivoyage /Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0
Antiparos is one of those Greek islands which have somehow managed to stay off the radar — and this makes it an ideal destination for relaxing holidays with the family!
On the southern side of Antiparos, you will find the most impressive sight of the island, the stunning Antiparos cave.
Koufonisia is actually divided into two islands: Ano Koufonissi and Kato Koufonissi.
Ano Koufonissi is the home of nightlife, replete with hotels, sights, restaurants, and bars.
But for a totally different experience, you can visit neighboring Kato Koufonisi, which is completely uninhabited and can only be reached by boat from Ano Koufonissi.
For Water-sport Enthusiasts: The Greek Islands of Naxos and Kea
Aerial view of Naxos. Credit: dronepicr/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0
You can enjoy the exciting sports of windsurfing and kitesurfing on Naxos if that is your thing.
You can also go for a different option and enjoy a scuba diving session in the local waters, exploring sights such as the Express Samina wreck off the coast of Paros or an underwater cave.
Other sports you can enjoy here include mountain biking and horseback riding.
Kea is just a short ferry ride away from Athens. Water sports enthusiasts can get their fix on this low-key island: Plenty of activities are available, such as wake-boarding, water skiing, and stand-up paddle surfing lessons, which are offered by the Kea Water Sports center on Koundouraki Beach.
The center now hosts an annual SUP (stand up paddle) race.
For nature lovers: Samothraki and Alonnisos Islands
One of the least-visited Greek islands is untouched Samothraki.
Come and enjoy the empty beaches and skinny dipping in the moonlight, along with peaceful oak forests and natural pools and waterfalls which are completely magical and make you think that nymphs and sprites will appear at any time.
View from Alonissos. Credit: Stk2k7 /Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0
For emerald waters and pure, untouched nature, the protected marine park of Alonnisos and its surrounding islets is a must-visit.
Get out your snorkel masks and explore some of the most beautiful waters the Aegean Sea has to offer.
Although sometimes the wealth of options available for once-in-a-lifetime holidays in Greece can be overwhelming, hopefully this list can help you plan your next getaway!
Somewhere on this list, the perfect Greek island paradise for you is waiting.