Greece is a breathtaking country that boasts an impressive number of islands, each more spectacular than the other. With over 6,000 islands, Greece has become a favorite holiday destination for many Europeans. The charm of this country lies in its affordable prices, charming landscapes, beaches with fine sand, and diverse nature, which make Greece a vacation plan that is hard to resist. Each island has its own unique history and tradition, reflected especially in its specific architecture, local myths, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants.
Although the total number of islands comprising Greece is in the thousands, only 227 of them are inhabited. The largest and most well-known islands belong to groups such as the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Sporades, the Ionian Islands, and the Saronic Islands. Creating a top list of the most beautiful islands in Greece is a challenging mission because each of them delights with a unique element. However, there are a few islands that are on the lips of every Greece enthusiast when warmly recommending this country.
1. Santorini
Santorini is one of the most visited islands in Greece and part of the Cyclades Archipelago, which translates to the “Archipelago of Sacred Islands.” It is an island full of romance, placing it among the top destinations for honeymoons. Tourists who choose to visit Santorini are captivated by its unique sunsets, often rated as some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. The island’s iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches add to its charm.
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2. Lefkada
Lefkada, also known as “Leucada,” is one of the most beautiful Ionian islands in Greece and a place where many Romanians choose to spend their summer vacations. It is connected to the mainland by a movable bridge, facilitating access for tourists. Lefkada is renowned for its fine sand and turquoise water, with two of the most spectacular beaches being Porto Katsiki and Egremni. It is also known for its stunning waterfalls, including the Nydri Waterfalls.
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3. Zakynthos
Zakynthos, another Ionian island, is an equally beloved vacation destination among tourists. It charms visitors with a plethora of natural wonders, including the famous Navagio Beach, where visitors can admire a shipwreck from the white sandy beach. The island is also home to the Blue Caves, where the water takes on the most intense shades of blue. Among the well-known beaches in Zakynthos are Navagio Beach, Dafni Beach, Banana Beach, Gerakas, and Laganas. The island is also home to the endangered loggerhead sea turtles, which can be seen nesting on the beaches.
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4. Corfu
Corfu, also known as Kerkyra in Greek, is a stunning island located in the Ionian Sea. This island is known for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal clear waters, and sandy beaches. The island’s capital, Corfu city, is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment. Its narrow streets, lively squares, and outdoor cafes perfectly illustrate the overall image of a vacation in Greece. Among the most beautiful beaches in Corfu are Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Canal d’Amour, Agios Gordios, and Pelekas. Each of these beaches offers a unique experience to visitors, with a range of water sports, clear waters, and soft sands.
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5. Mykonos
Mykonos is a lively island located in the Cyclades group, often referred to as the Ibiza of Greece. This island is famous for its exclusive beach parties, clubs, renowned restaurants, and entertainment that lasts until the sunrise. Mykonos is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife and a blend of modern amenities and traditional Greek culture. Besides its nightlife, visitors can also enjoy the beautiful beaches and landscapes typical of the Greek islands, including Platis Gialos, Super Paradise, and Elia Beach.
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6. Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and impresses with its diversity of landscapes, history, culture, and traditions. This island is an ideal destination for those looking to combine fine sandy beaches with traditional villages and remarkable archaeological sites. Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters, is one of the most popular attractions in Crete. The island’s capital, Heraklion, hosts the famous Knossos Palace, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Other must-visit tourist attractions in Crete include the city of Chania, Samaria Gorge National Park, the White Mountains, and traditional villages like Archanes or Anogeia.
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7. Thassos
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8. Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the most popular islands in the Aegean Sea, hosting one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Colossus of Rhodes. The island is nicknamed the “Land of the Sun” or the “Island of Roses.” The medieval city of Rhodes, included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers tourists a true journey into the era of the Knights Hospitaller. The Valley of the Butterflies, the resort of Kallithea, the Mandraki harbor, the Palace of the Grand Master, the Acropolis of Rhodes, the Seven Springs, and the Aquarium of Rhodes are some of the island’s top tourist attractions. Renowned beaches like Kalithea, Anthony Quinn Bay, Tsambika, Agathi, Ladiko, Agios Pavlos, or Faliraki are also a must-visit.
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9. Skiathos
Despite its small size, Skiathos is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. The island is located in the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea and is famous for its charming beaches, lush vegetation, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches like Koukounaries, Banana Beach, and Lalaria, which are among the most popular destinations on the island. Skiathos Town with Platanias Square, the main town of the island, is a lively port with narrow streets and buildings painted in shades of white and blue. Visitors can also take a boat trip to Tsougria and Argos, two smaller islands that can be visited from Skiathos. The Monastery of Evangelistria and the Church of Tris Ierarhes, or the Koukounaries Natural Park, are also popular tourist attractions.
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10. Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago and captivates visitors with its series of beaches with fine sand and clear, turquoise water. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Naxos are Agios Prokopios Beach, Agia Anna Beach, and Plaka Beach. Hora, the main town of the island with the Castle of Naxos and the Portara, is a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts. Mount Zas, the villages of Apeiranthos and Filoti, the Temples of Demeter and Apollo, the resort of Apollonas, Grotta, and the Archaeological Museum are also popular tourist attractions on the island.
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