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Choosing among Greece's 227 islands – which are the best Greek islands to visit?

All Greek islands are beautiful in their own way, but with hundreds to choose from, you may be wondering which islands are not to be missed. Read on for our choice of the best islands, whether you're planning to stay on one island or embark on an island-hopping adventure.

 
Updated by: Aleesha Sharma, Copywriter at Explore Worldwide
Updated: 23 June 2026

When it comes to choosing which Greek island or islands you would like to visit, there are some things to keep in mind. Shoulder season, in spring or autumn, has the best deals and helps you avoid the sweltering heat and crowds of the summer high season.

You should also pick which island to visit based on what you want to do. Some are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, while others are ideal for exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites.

Based on our years of experience guiding in the region, we've put together a handy Greece travel guide below. Our small-group tours offer you the highlights and hidden gems on both popular and lesser-known islands, with the best rates secured and everything planned, so you can relax and enjoy your Greek adventure.

 

The best Greek islands to visit

Naxos

Climb to the top of Mount Zas, said to be the childhood home of the god Zeus in Greek mythology, roam through 1,000-year-old olive groves, and discover the ancient ruined Venetian castle of Apano Kastro on Naxos.

The largest island in the Cyclades island group, Naxos is also home to beautiful beaches of white sand washed by clear waters, traditional villages of cube-shaped whitewashed houses, and local gastronomic specialties including flavourful potatoes and a range of extra fine cheeses.
Naxos tours
White buildings sit atop a rocky shore as waves crash against a stone walkway leading to a coastal town under a clear blue sky.

Corfu

Part of the Ionian Islands off northwest mainland Greece, Corfu's rocky hills, mountainous interior, and rugged shoreline on the Ionian Sea make Greece's greenest island an exceptional hiking destination. The famous Corfu Trail connects towns and villages along the entire length of the island.

The capital, Corfu Town (Kerkyra), has streets lined with pastel-hued Venetian houses and tavernas where you can savour traditional local cuisine such as sofrito, thinly sliced veal served with a white wine and garlic sauce, and fried fresh fish served with spicy savoro sauce.
Corfu tours
Boats float gently on a turquoise bay surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. Pink flowers bloom in the foreground, and a sandy beach stretches along the water's edge.

Crete

As the largest Greek island, Crete is a must for lovers of the great outdoors, thanks to the Samaria Gorge. Located within Samaria National Park, this huge gorge, with its towering cliff faces, winding canyons, and lush forests, makes for fantastic hiking territory.

Crete is also one of the best Greek islands for history enthusiasts, thanks to its layers of Venetian, Ottoman, and Byzantine influences. Make sure you pay a visit to Chania, renowned for its Venetian Harbour, picturesque alleyways, and rich cultural history.
Crete tours
Tables with blue chairs sit under a grapevine canopy on a cobblestone street, flanked by potted plants and rustic stone buildings, creating a quaint Mediterranean atmosphere.

Syros

Part of the Cycladic Islands in the Aegean Sea, Syros is one of the most underrated Greek islands. You can soak up the sun on gorgeous beaches without the crowds, explore the medieval hilltop town of Ano Syros, and relish regional delicacies like the scented sweet treat loukoumi.

Syros is also one of the easiest islands in Greece to visit from Athens, with daily direct flights from the capital.
Syros tours
Coastal town with colorful buildings perched on a hillside. People walk along a waterfront path beside calm, clear water under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

Evia

Despite being one of the largest Greek islands, and only a couple of hours from Athens, Evia is very much an under-the-radar gem as it remains off the main tourist trail. With its expansive coastline, it's one of the best islands to experience on a boat tour. 

Visitors can swim and scuba dive in brilliant blue bays, explore secluded beaches and charming fishing villages, dine on fresh seafood, and even soak in hot springs.
Evia tours
A sandy beach forms a curved peninsula, stretching into a calm, turquoise sea. Small boats float nearby, surrounded by lush green hills and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.

Paros

Crisscrossed by ancient Byzantine roads and home to imposing architecture and historic churches, the small island of Paros is one of the best Greek islands to see traditional settlements of white houses with blue doors and windows, such as the quaint village of Lefkes.

As one of the most beautiful of the Cycladic Islands, it offers many places of interest to explore, including picturesque fishing villages, a Venetian fortress, and ancient marble quarries.
Paros tours
Narrow alleyway adorned with vibrant pink bougainvillea, framed by white buildings and blue doors. Outdoor tables and chairs line the path, giving a Mediterranean coastal village vibe.

Santorini

With its whitewashed cliffside houses, rugged landscapes, and breathtaking beaches of colourful sand and lava rocks overlooking the Aegean Sea, the volcanic island of Santorini (or Thira, as the island is also known) is frequently at the top of travellers' lists when visiting Greece.

Santorini is also an area of interest to those keen on the Lost Atlantis legend, where some believe Atlantis sits beneath the waters. To make the most of this not-so-hidden gem, we recommend visiting the island in the shoulder season (spring or autumn) to avoid the large crowds. 
Santorini tours

Thirassia

In contrast to the bustling Santorini, and only a short boat ride away, is the small but mighty island of Thirassia. Offering unrivalled views of the volcano and sea, it's an ideal lunch spot, or adventurers may prefer to climb up to the hillside village and walk around the surrounding vineyards. 

The island is still relatively untouched by tourism, so there are plenty of unspoiled beaches and idyllic nature spots to explore.

 
Thirassia tour

Mykonos

Often frequented by the rich and famous, and known as the place to party in the Greek islands, Mykonos is the destination to head for if your ideal holiday features plenty of visits to beach bars and all-night dance clubs.

Beyond this, there's a lot on offer, including fine beaches, plentiful water sports, famous windmills, a wide range of dining options, and winding streets lined with designer boutique shops.
Mykonos tour
Wooden tables and chairs line a stone patio with white accents. They overlook a clear blue sea, adjacent to a row of colorful seaside buildings under a bright sky.

Delos

Just a few miles from Mykonos lies the small, uninhabited Greek island of Delos. The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you'll find ancient ruins such as the Temple of Apollo, the Terrace of Lions, a third-century BC theatre, and Mount Kynthos.

Delos is highly unique as it's the only place in the world with an insular archaeological site of this size and importance. You won't find any other island with so many antiquities from the centuries of Greek art.  
Delos tour

 
 

Victoria’s favourite Greek island memory

"One of my favourite memories from our boat trip around the island of Evia is waking up before everyone else on the boat, on a clear day. The whole island was still asleep, and the sun was starting to peek over the horizon. I took this opportunity to put my swimming costume on and take a morning dip in the sea, just me and the fish! It was one of the most peaceful holiday moments I’ve had. Exploring the Greek islands is full of moments like this; opportunities to take time and reflect by (or in) the water." – Victoria Ellison, Greece Product Manager at Explore Worldwide

 

Greek islands FAQ

What is the best Greek island for over 50s?
Top choices include Crete and Corfu, particularly for walking and trekking enthusiasts. Crete offers isolated beaches, secluded coves, and impressive canyons. Corfu is home to a UNESCO-listed Old Town and unparalleled views across the Mediterranean.  
Which Greek island is the most luxurious?
Which month is best for visiting Greek islands?
How do I choose which Greek island to visit?
Which Greek islands are good for families?

 

Discover Greece on a small group tour with Explore

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