Top 10 Greek Islands for New Visitors
More than 200 inhabited Greek Islands which sounds fascinating until you start making travel plans. Then it quickly gets overpowering. Mykonos or Santorini? Crete or Rhodes? Is it better to choose one island and unwind or to visit several? This list was created especially for you if this is your first visit to the Greek islands. It is not for the travelers looking for secret coves for the fifth summer in a row but for someone who wants the traditional Greek island experience done correctly the first time.
1. Santorini
The picture perfect island is Santorini. If you have ever imagined Greece you were most likely thinking about Santorini with its white washed buildings or blue domes and cliffside sunsets over the Caldera. Yes it is very touristic and that is reflected in the pricing but there is a reason it is at the top of almost every list for first timers. For the well known sunset views base yourself in Oia for a livelier more central stay base yourself in Fira. Just be aware that the prominent vistas are crowded during peak summer so an early morning or somewhat off season visit is highly recommended.
2. Naxos
If Santorini is the picture perfect island – the island that locals genuinely suggest is Naxos. With some of the nicest beaches in the Cyclades and a real inhabited old town rather than a stage built for pictures it is larger, greener and far less touristy. Naxos is often much less expensive than its well known neighbors making it a popular choice for tourists who want to see Santorini plus one additional destination.
3. The Island of Crete
Crete is more of a nation than an island. With mountain communities historic ruins hiking trails thru gorges and some of Greece’s best cuisine it is the biggest of the Greek islands. Crete alone may occupy an entire week without you ever feeling like you are missing out if you only have time for one island and do not want to deal with boat difficulties.
4. Paros
Paros has quietly become one of the most desired first timer islands and it justifies the buzz. Parikia offers a more subdued traditional atmosphere. Naoussa offers white washed alleys and waterfront tavernas without Mykonos- level pricing. It goes well with a day trip to the nearby tiny island of Antiparos and is a simple addition to a journey to Santorini or Naxos.
5. Mykonos
First timers have a mixed opinion of Mykonos and with good reason it is pricey, congested and centered around a party lifestyle that is not for everyone. There is a reason it is famous: the beach club scene, Little Venice, and windmills are truly distinctive. It should be on your list if the nightlife and see and be seen vibe seem intriguing. If not avoid it and enjoy the more sedate Cycladic experience at Naxos or Paros.
6. Rhodes
Beach vacations and serious history collide in Rhodes. There are enough beaches and resort towns on the island to fill a whole week and the Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a medieval walled city you can explore for long hours. It is no doubt a good choice if you wish to venture outside of the busier Cyclades itinerary as it is also a part of the Dodecanese.
7. Corfu
After replacing white washed Cycladic communities with lush green hills and Venetian inspired buildings Corfu on the Ionian Sea gives a completely unique taste of Greece. The terrain differs greatly from the dry, rocky Cyclades and there are parts of the historic town that feel more Italian than Greek. For people who want beaches without compromising shade and flora it is an excellent choice.
8. Milos
Anyone who has visited Santorini will vouch to the stunning beauty even it gets more media attention than Milos. As its lively fishing villages volcanic rock formations and boat trips along its breathtaking coastline it is a favorite vacation destination for people who prefer natural beauty to nightlife. It works so well with Santorini or Paros for a longer tour.
9. Hydra
Since cars are completely prohibited in Hydra the only ways to get around are on foot by donkey or by water taxi. There is nothing like Hydra in all of Greece. A charming pier is lined with stone homes and the whole island exudes an artistic slightly bohemian vibe. If you want to explore an island but you are on a tight schedule it is an easy day or overnight stay from Athens through the Saronic Gulf.
10. Lefkada
One of the few Greek islands that can be reached by a car is Lefkada which has a bridge connecting it to the mainland. It is known for having some of the most stunning beaches of the county with glass water that looks almost tropical against sheer cliffs. For the first time visitors who desire stunning scenery without having to deal with all the hassles of island hopping it is a great option.
How to Actually Arrange Your First Vacation
Attempting to fit in too many islands is a common mistake made by novices. Instead of spending half of your week traveling by ferry choose one island and truly enjoy it. Two or three islands is a reasonable comfortable pace for ten to fourteen days.
A traditional and dependable first time approach is as follows:
Spend a few days in Athens then travel to Naxos or Paros for a more leisurely genuine island stretch concluding in Santorini for the famous sunset farewell. Without overplanning yourself this combo offers you laid back island rhythm of history and the picture perfect moment.
A few useful points to know before making a reservation:
- During the busiest time of year reserve ferries in advance. Routes to well known islands sometimes sell out days in advance in July and August.
- If you are short on time take a plane to Santorini or Mykonos instead of using ferries and both of these island has its own airport.
- Shoulder season like May, June and September is definitely something to think about. Warm weather and fewer people are available without the chaos of peak July.
- Be prepared for cobblestone, rough streets. Comfortable shoes are more important than you might imagine because many island cities are constructed on hills with stairs instead of roads.
- Travel insurance is worthwhile particularly if your plan calls for boat connections between islands as it can be costly to make up for lost transfers.
The Concluding Lines:
Depending on your preferences for hiking, nightlife, history or just beach time there is not just one “right” Greek island to visit on your first vacation. Santorini, Naxos, Paros and Crete cover nearly every imagined version of Greece if you are searching for a shortlist that will not mislead you. As you grow in love with the islands start there expand outward and do not be shocked if this turns out to be the first of many visits back.