The Times Names Best Greek Islands to Visit

The Times published its list of the best Greek islands to visit, highlighting destinations beyond the famous Mykonos and Santorini.

From the stunning beaches of Skiathos to the historical richness of Rhodes, each island offers a unique experience for the perfect Greek getaway.

The Times’ Best Greek Islands

The Times chose Skiathos as the Greek island known for its spectacular coastline and lush landscapes. With “Greece’s most picture-perfect beaches,” it presents various gourmet restaurants and harbor-view cocktail bars.

The Times then singled out Kos for its extensive coastline and crystal clear waters. The island’s historic sites and charming villages add cultural depth to the coastal experience. According to the magazine, this charming combination makes Kos a destination for all types of travelers.

Voted as a top Greek island for sophisticated stays, Ios is often renowned for its vibrant nightlife. The island provides travelers with upscale beach clubs and an energetic atmosphere.

According to The Times, Evia is the best destination for hiking and history. This island is rich with “walking trails that pass waterfalls and mountain heights.” With its mineral hot springs, Evia offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Crete, the largest among Greece’s islands, boasts a diverse range of attractions. The Times referenced the island’s sandy beaches, majestic mountains, historical landmarks, and palace at Knossos for antiquity buffs. As for the variety of lodging options, the magazine noted  “accommodation from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts with sports facilities and kids’ clubs.”

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As for Corfu, The Times named it one of the greenest islands in Greece. The magazine highlighted the beauty of the “rugged slopes dressed in olive trees, pencil-thin cypresses and some 400 types of wildflower.” Moreover, Corfu offers its visitors a mixture of Venetian, British, French, and Greek architecture, as well as history and cuisine.

As a great family destination, Rhodes is a wonderful island for a well-balanced vacation experience. It presents “calm beaches offering safe swimming” and a rich cultural heritage. The publication highlighted the special place of Rhodes in Greek mythology, as well as the unique mark left by the Roman, Ottoman, and Venetian cultures.

Furthermore, the magazine named Mykonos the world’s top hedonistic destination, highlighting that it has historically been a luxury vacation spot. Nevertheless, the island also has an ample amount of affordable getaways “where the lunch bill won’t make your eyes water.”

Lefkada, known for its accessible ferry routes, is rich with “unspoilt mountains and untouched villages.” This island is famous with “world-class windsurfing and sailing off stunning beaches.”

Speaking about Santorini, The Times highlighted its iconic architecture and romantic ambiance. Being “an enduring Greek icon,” this Greek island presents a picturesque setting for couples and honeymooners with its charming sunsets and cave hotels.

Hydra, celebrated for its car-free streets and serene atmosphere, offers a serene and authentic Greek experience. With its rich artistic heritage and tranquil waterfront, Hydra provides a peaceful haven for travelers seeking a laid-back island escape.

Skopelos, known for its lush landscapes and pebble beaches, captures the essence of natural beauty and tranquility. The Times noted that the sea there “is clear and aquamarine, making for incredibly memorable dips.” A top destination for ABBA fans, Skopelos attracts visitors with its forests and charming towns.

With plenty of abandoned villages  to explore, Kefalonia provides a unique chance “to spot loggerhead turtles swimming in the harbor.” With its unspoiled beauty and historical richness, this island is a top destination for a harmonious vacation experience.

The Times described Symi as an island of “former boat-builders, merchants and sponge divers.” Emphasizing the beauty of the “Symi’s horseshoe bay and neoclassical buildings in sorbet shade,” the magazine highlighted a captivating journey through local history and natural beauty.

Last but not least, Zakynthos, renowned for its iconic shipwreck and vibrant beaches, “is magical to visit.” The famous Navagio Beach is home to a “picturesque shipwreck that’s one of the most iconic images of Greece,” The Times concluded.