The Complete Greek Island Holiday Guide: Favourite Destinations, Hidden Gems, and Which Island to Choose
Not sure which Greek island to choose? Explore our top 20 favourites to help you plan the perfect Greek island holiday.
Greece is home to an estimated 6,000 islands, yet only 227 are inhabited, which can make choosing the right Greek island holiday a challenge. Sarah and I have visited several Greek islands, and based on our experiences, we have curated a list of our 20 best Greek islands. This guide will help you decide which suits you best, based on your travel style, budget, and what you want to see and do while you are there.
Sarah visited the Cyclades islands of Santorini, Paros and Milos with her family in 2023. She has also travelled to Rhodes, Kos, Corfu and Zakynthos. I have visited Kos, Corfu and Rhodes and have lived on the island of Zakynthos for three months during summer 2022, having visited the island four times in total. I love the Greek Islands and everything they have to offer, if you have not been on a Greek island holiday before and it is your first time visit, you are in for a treat!
A Greek island holiday offers fantastic beaches, historic sights dating back centuries, and some of the best nightlife in the Mediterranean. Whether you want to enjoy island hopping in Greece or spend a week or two exploring a single island, the choice is yours. This Greek Island holiday guide is designed to help you make that decision.
Read: Family Holidays In Greece for 2026 – My Top 20 Picks of Hotels and Apartments
Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Athens And Where To Stay
How to get to the Greek Islands
Greece’s capital, Athens, serves as the primary gateway to the Greek islands, though direct flights also operate to larger islands such as Crete, Corfu, Zakynthos and Rhodes. Athens International Airport links to almost every island by domestic flight or ferry from nearby Piraeus Port, making it a common starting point for exploring the islands.
From Ireland and the UK, several major islands are accessible via direct flights, particularly in spring and summer. Destinations such as Crete, Kos, Rhodes, Zakynthos and Corfu can often be reached without connecting through Athens, simplifying travel to the islands.
Top Tip: It is best to avoid Athens in the summer months of July and August as the heat is extremely intense and not ideal for exploring.
How to get around the Greek Islands
If you want to travel to the Greek islands you have the option to choose flights or ferries depending on your budget and time frame. Many islands have airports, but they may only have access from Athens, so ferries will be the main mode of transport if you are travelling between islands.
Ferryhopper is the best website to use for Greek island hopping holidays. It is the Skyscanner for ferries and lists all ferry companies operating on that route. You can book easily on their website and their App is good too.
Read: 20 Top Tips For Island Hopping in Greece
Top Tip: Always check the ferry schedule before booking anything as some only operate on certain days.
Greek Island Weather
Most Greek islands enjoy long hot summers and mild winters, with sunshine being usually reliable from May through September. However, you do need to be aware of the Meltemi Winds, which affects parts of the Aegean Sea in summer and can bring strong breezes and choppier seas – this can affect ferry crossings and cause sea sickness.
May, June, September and early October offer the best balance of warm weather, swimmable seas and fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest months, but also the busiest and most expensive time for a Greek island holiday.
Shoulder seasons can be a great time to explore the Greek islands with lower crowds and cheaper prices. April, May and October are ideal and you can be lucky with dry sunny weather especially in the most southern islands such as Rhodes, Crete and Santorini.
1. Crete – Diverse Landscapes
Airport: Chania (CHQ) or Heraklion (HER) Time needed: 4-7+ Nights
The biggest island of them all, Crete, has 2 main airports – Chania on the North West of the island and Heraklion more North East. The island boasts 650 miles of coastline and some impressive historical sights.
Crete is home to the no 1 beach in the world 2025 voted by TripAdvisor, Elafonissi Beach, which is a main attraction on the Chania side of the island, along with the hikers paradise and Europe’s longest gorge – the Samaria Gorge.
Sarah visited Elafonsi Beach, and while the sand is not exactly as ‘Pink’ as Instagrammers say, it is spectacular, and a must visit if you are staying anywhere near Chania.
Chania is also known for its 14th century Venetian harbour and lively waterfront restaurants. It has a strong Italian feel without heavy crowds. While the harbour draws most visitors, the narrow side streets are worth exploring for local and international shops.
Sarah loved getting a seat at the waterfront bars and watching the world go by – its a stunning part of Greece, and often overlooked.
Boat trips also depart from the harbour, ranging from glass bottom boats to full day trips to Santorini.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the nearby picture perfect Greek Church in Georgioupolis, pictured here.
Nearby Rethymno is a charming medieval town that retains much of its Venetian character and feels far smaller than its size. Its mix of Greek Orthodox and Catholic churches, mosques and the Fortezza fortress reflects a rich history and culture.
The harbour is the main hub, lined with restaurants and bars overlooking the port, while a long sandy beach nearby makes it ideal for combining sightseeing with beach time. Walk to the lighthouse and enjoy a meal at a waterfront Greek taverna.
Read: Top things to do near Chania, Crete
Heraklion, on Crete’s north east coast is home to the popular holiday resorts of Hersonissos, Stalis, and Malia. Hersonissos is a lively hub with shops, bars, restaurants, and Star Beach waterpark, while Malia is famous for nightlife and parties. The area offers a wide range of accommodations, beach clubs, and activities for all types of travellers.
Best time to visit: April-June, September & October
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Santorini by boat or fly to Naxos, Kos, Rhodes or Corfu.
Hotel Recommendations Heraklion Area: Domes of Elounda, Stella Island (Luxury), Casa Blu, The Island Hotel (Mid Range)
Hotel Recommendations Chania Area: Ikos Kissamos, Anemos Luxury Grand Resort (Luxury) SanSal Boutique Hotel (Mid Range)
Greek Island Holiday to the The Dodecanese (South Aegean Islands)
The sunniest corner of Greece, the Dodecanese includes the popular islands of Rhodes and Kos, just off the coast of Turkey. The group of islands is home to 60 castles, crystal-clear waters, sandy and pebbly beaches, fascinating archaeological sites, medieval monuments, and traditional villages, it is full of treasures waiting to be explored.
2. Rhodes – Historic
Airport: Rhodes (RHO) Time needed: 4-5+ Nights
I think Rhodes is possibly my favourite Greek island I have visited, and Sarah loved it too. It offers so much, from the historic towns of Lindos and Rhodes Town, home to the Palace of the Grand Master, to vibrant nightlife resorts like Faliraki, or the bar street area of Rhodes Town if you are in the mood to party.
That said, there is plenty to explore across the island, from stunning crystal clear beaches to day trips to nearby Symi island or even over to the Turkish towns of Marmaris or Fethiye.
If you want to stay in a historic setting, Lindos or Rhodes Town are ideal choices, with beaches still close by to explore. Faliraki is a popular option for a fun, lively atmosphere with a bar street suitable for everyone. If you want to be near Rhodes Town stay in a nearby resort area, Ixia or Kalithea are both great options.
Top Tip: Drive to the very southern tip of the island to Prasonissi beach, where the seas of the Aegean and Mediterranean meet – it is a natural phenomenon and a stunning sight!
Read: Rhodes Holidays – The Best Places to Stay for Couples, Families & Groups
Best months to visit: April, May, September & October
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Symi and Kos or fly to Kos, Santorini, Samos or Crete.
Hotel Recommendations: Eden Roc, Lindos Mare, Mayia Exclusive (Luxury), Kresten Palace, Belair Beach Hotel, Lindos View Hotel (Mid Range), Aloe Hotel, Dionysos Hotel, Island Blue Hotel (Budget)
Restaurants Recommendations: Flaws (Rhodes Town), Desert Rose (Faliraki), Akres Lindos, Yannis Cocktail barLindos
3. Kos – Lively Resorts
Airport: Kos (KGS) Time needed: 3-5 Nights
I loved Kos when I visited a few years ago. I stayed near Kos Town, and the old town square quickly became my favourite place to eat, drink and watch the world go by as the sun sets. It is a wonderful spot to slow down and soak up the atmosphere, and easily one of the highlights of a Greek island holiday. There is plenty to do and see across the island, yet it still offers a relaxed, laidback vibe if that is what you are after.
History plays a big role here, with Roman ruins and other ancient sights spread across the island. Alongside this, you will find good restaurants and a lively nightlife scene. The harbour sits at the centre of Kos Town and is a popular place for al fresco dining, especially in the evenings. The beaches in Kos are underrated compared to some other islands so don’t miss Tigaki beach or Paradise beach.
Kos is uniquely flat and has a dedicated network of bicycle lanes that stretch for miles along the coast. It is one of the most bike friendly islands in Greece, making it a great choice if you are looking for an active cycling holiday.
The island of Kos is compact, measuring just 40 by 80 kilometres, which makes it easy to get around and visit most of the highlights. You can also take a day trip to Bodrum in Turkey, which is only a 20 minute ferry ride from Kos Town.
Another popular experience is heading up to the mountain village of Zia for dinner. Set high above the coast, it is one of the top things to do in Kos and a favourite spot for sunset, with views stretching across the island and out to sea on a clear day seeing over to Bodrum in Turkey.
Top Tip: Book a restaurant in the old town square and soak up the atmosphere. I recommend Ambrosia restaurant, and ask for a seat on the balcony. Other wise try Lofaki up in the mountains for amazing dinner views or the family owned Plaza Beach which gets fantastic TripAdvisor reviews.
Read: Top things to do in Kos Greece and Where to Stay – Kos Travel Guide
Best months to visit: May, June, September & October
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Rhodes, Nisyros, Symi, and Kalymnos or fly to Crete or Rhodes.
Hotel Recommendations: Ikos Aria, OKU Kos (High End), Utopia Blu, Michelangelo Resort & Spa (Mid Range), Diamond Boutique, Kosta Palace (Budget)
Restaurants Recommendations: Plaza Beach, Ambrosia, Twin Dragon (Kos Town), Lofaki
Greek Island Holiday to The Cyclades
Island hopping in the Cyclades is the iconic Greek island holiday experience. They are home to charming villages in seaside towns and dramatic clifftop settings, alongside crystal-clear waters and the famous blue and white Greek architecture. They are synonymous with the images of a Greek island holiday and include some of the most popular islands in Greece.
The name Cyclades means circular islands, referring to the way the islands form a ring around the sacred island of Delos. In total, the archipelago is made up of around 220 islands.
The most popular islands for island hopping are Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Ios, and Mykonos, but Milos was Sarah’s favourite, and lesser known gems such as Folegandros should not be overlooked. These islands are close together, usually one to two hours apart by ferry, have frequent connections, and offer the greatest variety within a single trip.
Top Tip: It is ideal to book the Greek ferries at least 2 to 4 months in advance especially the high speed ones.
4. Santorini – Romantic
Airport: Santorini (JTR) Time needed: 3-5 Nights
Santorini is a small island, covering around 76 square kilometres – putting this in perspective, Crete is around 100 times larger! Yet Santorini is one of the most popular and most visited Greek islands, making it a great choice for a Greek island holiday if you want to see the iconic sights.
Santorini got its half-moon shape around 1650 BC after a massive volcanic eruption which destroyed about half of the island. Now half of the caldera is submerged, which makes it the only sunken caldera in the world. The volcano remains active and can only be visited by a boat tour.
Oia is the picture perfect whitewashed town perched on top of Santorini’s caldera edge, and is arguably the reason that Santorini is on most bucket list holiday destinations. However, its beauty comes with a catch – the crowds are crazy during peak season, so is best to travel Santorini in the shoulder months of April, May or October to avoid the cruise ships and busy crowds – check out Sarah’s Instagram highlights if you need to see more!
Top Tip: If you want a pretty whitewashed town without the crowds, then stay in Imerovigli. When I visited Imerovigli, I knew that if I returned to Santorini, this is where I would stay. Imerovigli has some of Santorini’s best hotels and restaurants and most offer stunning sea views, and it is also located just 10 minutes drive to Fira if you fancy a livelier scene.
Read: Top Things to Do in Santorini and Where to Stay – Santorini Travel Guide
Best months to visit: April, May & October
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Crete, Ios, Naxos, Paros, Milos and Mykonos or fly to Rhodes.
Hotel Recommendations: Canaves Oia Suites, Cavoo Tagoo (Luxury) Meltemi Village (Mid Range) Acqua Votos (Value) – See lots more in our guide linked above.
Restaurants Recommendations: Sunset Ammoudi for a special occasion and Naboo for a cool beach bar.
5. Mykonos – Exclusive
Airport: Mykonos (JMK) Time needed: 3 Nights
Mykonos is known for its exclusive atmosphere and reputation as a party hotspot in the Cyclades. The island is home to several high end beach clubs, such as Scorpios, which attracts international DJs, celebrities, and famous footballers, so spotting a familiar face is not unusual. It is also know as one of the more expensive Greek islands.
One of the must see sights in Mykonos is Little Venice, also known as Chora. This picturesque 18th century neighbourhood is famous for its colourful, two storey whitewashed houses with wooden balconies built right above the sea. Nearby, you can visit the iconic windmills, wander through Chora’s maze of narrow streets, shop at luxury boutiques, or enjoy sunset drinks overlooking the water.
While the nightlife is amazing, it is easy to avoid if you prefer a slower pace holiday. Mykonos also offers excellent beaches for swimming, boat trips, great food ranging from traditional tavernas to upscale fine dining, and cultural visits such as a day trip to the sacred island of Delos, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.
Thanks to its ferry connections, Mykonos is also an ideal base for island hopping, with Santorini, Naxos, and Paros all just a short journey away.
Mykonos is home to a wide range of luxury hotels, Chora is the best place to stay, placing you close to beautiful beaches, stylish shops, traditional tavernas, and just minutes from world famous beach clubs and nightlife.
Read: 20+ of the Best Luxury Holidays in Greece for Adults
Best months to visit: May & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Syros, Tinos Ios, and Milos
Hotel Recommendations: Bill&Coo Mykonos, Deos, Mykonos Riviera, Myconian Panoptis Escape, Cavo Tagoo, Kouros Hotel & Suites (Luxury) Acrogiali Beach Hotel (Budget)
6. Paros – Charming Villages
Airport: Paros (PAS) Time needed: 3-4 Nights
Paros is often described as Mykonos 20 years ago. It has all the glitz and glamour of its neighbour but not as expensive, and will a little less crowds. Naoussa was Sarah’s favourite spot – it is the picture perfect Cycladic town. With whitewashed buildings, beautiful paved streets and vibrant bouganvilla on every corner, it is an Instagrammer’s dream. It is also home to a stunning harbour that is lined with countless restaurants and bars with outdoor tables at the waters edge.
Naoussa is the place to be seen in Paros and it attracts an upmarket crowd looking for a lively but classy night scene. It is renowned as being a foodie town too, so you can expect some delicious food and top class restaurants here.
You can drive around Paros in 90 minutes. It is home to many more pretty whitewashed villages, such as Marpissa and Lefkes, as well as traditional fishing villages such as Piso Livado. There are some great sandy beaches in Paros too, including Kolymbithres which is just outside Naousa, and Golden Beach, a longer wider beach close to Marpissa.
Parikia is the capital and the main town. It is much bigger and busier than Naoussa, although it also has a pretty old town. While it may be more authentic than Naoussa, it didn’t have the same wow factor for me. It is the best place to watch the sunset though, with plenty of bars and restaurants lining the seafront. You can prebook bars for sundowners too, we pre booked Evinos cocktail bar and there was no minimum spend, which is a rare thing for bars with the best sunset views.
Make sure to set aside a day to visit to Antiparos. You can catch the ferry from Parikia but it is much busier and harder to park here, plus the journey time is longer – circa 30 minutes. I suggest going from Pounta where there is a shorter 7 minute crossing. Antiparos has a pretty town to explore – similar to Naoussa, but less busy, and a beach just 8 minutes walk away from the harbour.
Top Tip: Walk a few minutes past the first beach to Fanari Beach Club. You can enjoy a fabulous lunch here in a gorgeous setting and get two loungers for €20 by the waters edge. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear!
Best months to visit: May, June & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Santorini, Ios, Naxos, Milos, Mykonos and Tinos.
Hotel Recommendations: Kymo Luxry Suites
Restaurants Recommendations: Sigi Ikthios for harbour views in Naoussa, Comeback Bar for cocktails and lite bites by the waters edge in Naoussa and Evinos cocktail bar for the sundowners without a minimum spend in Parika.
7. Naxos – Historic Charm
Airport: Naxos (JNX) Time needed: 3 Nights
Naxos, the largest and greenest of the Cycladic Islands, is renowned for its stunning, long sandy beaches such as Agia Anna and Plaka and its rich ancient history as the mythological home of Zeus.
Visitors can explore classical landmarks including the Portara and the Temple of Demeter, wander the Venetian streets of Naxos Town, hike through traditional mountain villages, or sample local produce and cheeses at family run tavernas.
Stay in Naxos Town (Chora) for lively restaurants, bars and shops or choose a relaxed beachfront stay along Agia Anna or Plaka which are more family friendly.
Best months to visit: May & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Milos, Paros, Santorini, Syros, Mykonos, Tinos or fly to Crete.
Hotel Recommendations: Ammothines Cycladic Suites, Akre Hotel (Luxury), Anais Of Naxos, Naxos Resort by Icon Blue (Mid Range), Hotel Francesca, Hotel Zeus, The Saint Vlassis (Budget)
8. Milos – Unique Landscapes
Airport: Milos (MLO) Time needed: 3-4 Nights
Milos island may not have the chic resorts that Paros has, but its stunning fishing villages certainly make up for it. Mandrakia, Klima and Firopotamos are all breathtaking, and each have Milos signature Syrmata or boat houses. You will find some great seafood restaurants here as well as stunning sea views.
There is so much to see and do in Milos, everywhere we went had a different vibe, and it is one of Sarah’s favourite islands in Greece. It is one of two volcanic islands in the Cyclades – Santorini being the second.
The hilltop town of Plaka has a more traditional Cycladic feel, with whitewashed buildings and cobbled stone streets and is a great place to watch the sunset. However, Sarah found the best place for sunset in the Cyclades was Sarakiniko, or Moon beach as it is more commonly known.
This incredible beach looks like a lunar landscape, with layers of white rocks and caves in striking formations. The beach was formed by erosion and fossil layering of volcanic rock by wind and waves.
As well as a small cove beach there are numerous rock bathing areas, and thrill seekers will love jumping off the rocks into the sea. Get there for sunset if you can, the sun setting on the white rocks is spectacular.
One of the other best things to do in Milos is to visit the south west coast of the island, which is only accessible by a boat trip. You can skipper your own small boat for a half or full day, without a licence.
Top Tip: Arrange your day so you can visit Medusa Restaurant in Mandrakia. They don’t take reservations so the wait time in the evening is often long, but you can get lucky with short wait times during the day.
Best months to visit: May, June & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Sifnos, Paros and Tinos.
Restaurants Recommendations: Medusa Restaurant
Hotel Recommendations: Villa 8 Airbnb at the waters edge
9. Ios – Party Island
Airport: No Airport fly into Santorini (JTR) or Athens (ATH) Time needed: 3-4 Nights
Ios is best known as a lively party destination, offering a more affordable alternative to Mykonos, but it also boasts stunning, uncrowded beaches. For those seeking a quieter experience, visiting outside July and August allows you to enjoy unspoilt beaches and charming old towns with less crowds.
Ios offers a completely different experience from its neighbour island Santorini. While Santorini is known for its dramatic views and pebble beaches, Ios has the golden sandy beaches many travellers dream of. The two islands are a short ferry ride away taking just 45 to 60 minutes so ideal for a two centre Greek island adventure.
The main place to stay is Chora, the island’s main town, where whitewashed houses are surrounded by narrow streets lined with cafés, bars, and boutique shops, making it both convenient and full of local character.
Read: Top 10 Leaving Cert Holidays for 2026
Best months to visit: May, June & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Santorini, Naxos, Paros & Mykonos.
Hotel Recommendations: Ios Palace Hotel & Spa, Liostasi, Calilo (Luxury) Far Out Hotel & Spa, Kritikakis Village Hotel (Mid Range) Yialos Ios Hotel (Budget)
10. Syros – Underrated Charm
Airport: Demetrius Vikelas (JSY) Time needed: 2-3 Nights
Syros is the capital and most populated island of the Cyclades, and one of the most charming and captivating in Greece. It is similar in size to Mykonos, but with around double the population, at just over 21,000 residents. Receiving fewer tourists, Syros hold a genuine Greek atmosphere. Its compact size also makes it easy to drive across the island, with most destinations reachable within 15 minutes.
The largest town on the island is Ermoupoli which is busy year-round, and is host to many cultural events and festivals. The medieval village of Ano Syros is walkable from Ermoupoli, though most of it is uphill. This fascinating hilltop settlement dates years back to the 12th century and is a winding maze of unpolished stone passageways among historic churches and whitewashed houses.
Best months to visit: June & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Mykonos, Tinos, Naxos and Ios.
Hotel Recommendations: Ploes, Aristide Hotel, Castro Hotel (Luxury) Apollonion Palace (Mid Range) Dolphin Bay (Value)
11. Tinos – Religious & Traditional
Airport: No airport fly into Mykonos (JMK) or Athens (ATH) Time needed: 2-3 Nights
Tinos is one of the most traditional islands in the Cyclades, its character and heritage largely preserved over time. Tinos is also an important pilgrimage destination, drawing visitors to the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, one of Greece’s most revered religious sites.
There is numerous beautiful beaches on the island of Tinos. Agios Fokas Beach, the closest to Tinos Town, is the island’s largest beach and offers the best selection of beach bars. The main beach resort area lies in the southeast corner of the island, about a 10 minute drive from Tinos Town, and includes Agios Ioannis and Agios Sostis Beaches. This area features a handful of small hotels, some with their own tavernas, as well as several nearby restaurants.
Stay in the island’s capital, Tinos Town or otherwise known as Chora, it sits along the waterfront, where a scenic seaside promenade runs past colourful sailboats. At its heart, the town you will find narrow marble streets and alleys, lined with tavernas, boutique shops, and seaside cafés.
Best months to visit: June & September (Avoid August unless coming specifically for the pilgrimage)
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Mykonos, Naxos and Ios.
Hotel Recommendations: Infinity View Hotel (Luxury), Venus Hotel, Virginia Hotel (Budget)
Greek Island Holiday to the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands are known for their lush green landscapes, gorgeous sandy beaches and calm turquoise waters, offering a softer and more relaxed take on a Greek island holiday.
The best islands for hopping are Corfu, Paxos, Kefalonia and Zakynthos. They are relatively close together, offer good ferry connections and combine beaches, scenery, food and culture, making it easy to experience variety within one Greek island holiday.
12. Zakynthos / Zante – Great Parties and Landscapes
Airport: Zakynthos (ZTH) Time needed: 4-5 Nights
I’ve visited Zante four times, including living on the island for 3 months in summer of 2022 working in an Irish bar and enjoying all the island has to offer. While its not my favourite island, it is a close second after Rhodes. This doesn’t mean its not a must visit as it does have fantastic things to offer but I just think its missing that historic charm that Rhodes has.
Zante is home to some iconic nightlife venues with international DJs so it does bring a great energy to the island in the high season (Jun-Aug), if your not into partying don’t worry there’s amazing day trips you can take to turtle island, cameo island, and one of the most photographed beaches in world – Navagio beach, otherwise known as Shipwreck beach – pictured above.
If you are looking for beach club days and lively nights stay in the resort of Laganas or close by Kalamaki. Families usually enjoy Tsilivi or Argassi as they both have great option of hotels and a waterpark in town with shops, bars and resturants.
If you want a quiet peaceful escape choose Alykanas, Tragaki, Vassilikos or Alykes for laidback days and nights. Sarah stayed in the small town of Alykanas with her family and enjoyed the laid back atmosphere as well as the boat trip to Shipwreck beach.
Top Tip: If you want to see Zakynthos hidden gems, you will need to rent a car or a quad.
Read: Top things to do in Zakynthos and Where to stay – Zakynthos Travel Guide
Best months to visit: Late May, June, Late August & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Kefalonia
Hotel Recommendations: Zante Maris Suites, Lesante Blu, Hotel Contessina, King Jason Zante (Luxury), Planet Studios, Katerina Palace Hotel, Ionian Blue Hotel (Budget)
Restaurants Recommendations: Panos, SeaSide, The Island, Isabels (Laganas), Olive Tree (Kalamaki), Madisons, Manoo, Circus all day (Zante Town), Green Frog (Argassi)
13. Corfu – Green Paradise
Airport: Corfu (CFU) Time needed: 4-7 Nights
Corfu is often called the green island thanks to its lush landscape, as well as its rich and varied history shaped by Venetian and French influence. Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its narrow cobbled streets, elegant buildings and lively atmosphere, and it is also a popular cruise port.
Beaches are spread right across the island, from long sandy bays to quieter, hidden beaches tucked between headlands. Corfu is well known for its white sands and clear turquoise water, with stand out spots including the cliff lined Canal d’Amour in Sidari and the scenic Paleokastritsa Monastery overlooking the coast.
If you are short on time but want to fit more in, Corfu is well placed for day trips. You can visit Paxos and Antipaxos for a taste of island hopping, or head across to Sarande in Albania, which is close enough for a full day out.
Popular places to stay include Sidari, Roda, Dassia, Gouvia, Aghios Georgios and Messonghi, offering a mix of relaxed and family friendly resorts. Sarah stayed in Messonghi with her family and loved it.
For those looking for lively nights out, Kavos is well known for its party scene.
Read: The Best All Inclusive Greece Hotels For Adults and Family Holidays
Top Tip: From Corfu, you are very close to the beachside town of Sarande in Albania, which is ideal for a day trip if you fancy visiting another country.
Best months to visit: Late May, June, Late August & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Paxos and Antipaxos or Fly to Crete.
Hotel Recommendations: The Olivar Suites, Rodostamo Hotel & Spa, Atlantica Grand Mediterraneo Resort, Grecotel Eva Palace (Luxury) Marbella Hotel (Family Luxury) Destino Blue Hotel & Spa, Cooks Club Corfu (Mid Range) Loulass Village, The Palms Sidari (Value)
Restaurant recommendations: Village Taverna, Moraitika for traditional Greek food and Archontiko for amazing food in stunning surroundings.
14. Kefalonia – Natural Beauty
Airport: Kefalonia (EFL) Time needed: 4-5 Nights
Kefalonia is a little bit harder to reach as there no direct flights from Ireland, but you can connect via UK or Athens or take a ferry from Zakynthos. Kefalonia is a good choice if you want a mix of countryside, beaches and relaxed resorts. The island is the largest in the Ionian sea and is best known as the setting for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, which helped put it on the map.
Away from the beaches, the landscape is made up of hills, vineyards and small traditional villages, while the coastline ranges from long sandy stretches to quieter coves with clear water. It is easy to get around, which makes exploring simple whether you stay in one area or move about.
The main resort of Skala, on the south east coast, is the most developed resort, with a long beach, plenty of places to eat and a lively evening scene. Lourdas is quieter and more low key, with a village feel and a wide bay. Lassi is close to the island’s capital and is popular for its beaches and sea views, especially in the evenings.
Best months to visit: May-October
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Zakynthos or Lefkada.
Hotel Recommendations: Kefalonia Bay Palace (Luxury) Tesoro Blu Hotel & Spa (Mid Range) Skala Hotel (Budget)
15. Lefkada – Laidback Escape
Airport: No airport fly into mainland Aktion (PVK) Time needed: 3-4 Nights
The island takes its name from the Greek word meaning White as its known for its amazing limestone cliffs situated on beaches such as Porto Katsiki and Egremni. Its technically an island but is connected to mainland Greece by a causeway. Lefkada is known for windsurfing; kitesurfing and traditional villages.
Major landmarks to visit include the medieval castle of Agia Mavra and the Faneromeni Monastery. Stay in Nidri where the main ferry port lies and has a fantastic lively feel with shops, bars and restaurants. If you want a secluded escape try stay in the north in Ligia or any of its surrounding villages.
Best months to visit: May-October
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Kefalonia, Ithaca, Corfu, Meganisi or Paxos
Hotel Recommendations: Porto Galini Seaside Resort & Spa (Luxury) Red Tower Hotel (Mid Range) Vergina Star Hotel (Budget)
16. Paxos/ Antipaxos – Laidback Hidden Gem
Airport: No airport fly into Corfu (CFU) Time needed: 2-3 Nights
Renowned for its laid back and authentic Greek feel, Paxos features quaint villages and secluded pebble beaches, making it a peaceful escape for those seeking some natural beauty. The island is also famously known as the setting for the Netflix series “Maestro in Blue”.
Paxos is home to just a handful of small towns, including Gaios, Lakka and Loggos, each offering a relaxed atmosphere and traditional Greek hospitality. Free from the hustle of mass tourism, Paxos holidays provide a serene retreat that is ideal for unwinding.
This small Ionian island is known for its crystal clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs and ancient olive groves. Just a short boat trip away, Antipaxos is known for its insane beaches and shallow waters, making it a popular excursion for visitors.
Choose to stay in Gaios, the main hub of the island, with a good selection of bars and restaurants. Lakka, located in the north of Paxos is quieter but boasts a spectacularly beautiful harbour surrounded by pine trees and turquoise waters. Loggos is the smallest port on the island but is often considered the most charming and romantic choice.
Best months to visit: May, June, Late August & September.
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Corfu or Lefkada
Hotel Recommendations: Paxos Club Resort (Mid Range)
Choose The Sporades for your Greek Island Holiday (West Aegean)
17. Skiathos – Beach Paradise
Airport: Skiathos (JSI) Time needed: 2-3 Nights
Skiathos may be small, but it serves up big doses of scenery. This Greek island is edged by some of the best beaches in the Aegean, and they’re complemented by clear blue waves and gorgeous green countryside
If your a fan of the Mamma Mia Movies you might recognise these places as the island’s Old Port features in the movie. The Skiathos Airport (JSI) is often called the Saint Martin of Europe, is famous for its extremely low plane spotting, where planes land just meters above spectators on a road near the beach.
The must-do activity is a daily boat cruise to explore the inaccessible north coast. You can swim at the iconic Lalaria Beach famous for its white smooth pebbles and stone arch and the ancient ruins of the medieval Kastro, which are impossible to reach by standard car.
Best months to visit: June & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Skopelos
Hotel Recommendations: Kassandra Bay Suites (Luxury) Oniro Skiathos (Mid Range) Casa Blue Hotel (Budget)
18. Skopelos – Mamma Mia Island
Airport: None fly into Skiathos (JSI) Time needed: 1-2 Nights
A Greek island holiday to Skopelos showcases some of the most unspoiled scenery in the Aegean. Skopelos is known for its lush scenery, home to Mamma Mia film locations like Donna’s hotel and Sophie’s wedding which you can visit by boat for the day.
A must-visit is Agios Ioannis Chapel, the tiny white church on a dramatic rock that features in the wedding scene. Climb the steps for incredible views and that wonderful movie moment feeling. Spend time exploring Kastani Beach, where musical numbers played out along the sand, then wander the pretty lanes of Skopelos Town to find traditional tavernas, boutique shops, and a harbourfront offering fresh seafood and local wine.
Stay in Skopelos Town Chora which is the capital on the east coast. A protected traditional settlement of amphitheater-style houses, it is the heart of the island’s dining and shopping. Glossa is the second largest village, perched high on a hill in the northwest. It offers the most authentic local vibe and spectacular sunset views. Its port, Loutraki, is located directly below.
Best months to visit: June & September
Island Hopping pairing ideas: Ferry to Skiathos
Hotel Recommendations: Skopelos Village Hotel (Mid Range) Sunrise Village Hotel Apartments (Budget)
Greek Island Holiday to the Saronic Islands
19. Hydra – Off The Beaten Track Car-free Charm
Airport: No airport fly into Athens Time needed: 2-4 Nights
The Greek island of Hydra might not be on your list to visit but it definitely should be, especially if you like exploring a hidden gem! Hydra offers visitors plenty to do, from soaking up the charm of Hydra Town and its lively harbour, to hiking, water activities, boat tours, fishing, and visiting secluded pebbled beaches and coves. For a glimpse into traditional Greek island life, consider visiting the quaint fishing village of Kaminia. The island is known to be very walkable and popular for horseback riding around the coast.
To get to the island of Hydra take a ferry from the Port of Piraeus in Athens.
Best months to visit: May, June, September & October.
Hotel Recommendations: Hotel Leto Hydra, Mandraki Beach Resort (Luxury), Hotel Sophia (Mid Range), Cactus Hydra – Art Apartments (Budget)
Greek Island Holiday to the North Aegean Islands
20. Samos – Historic & World Class Wine
Airport: Samos (SMI) Time needed: 4-5 Nights
Just off the coast of Turkey lies the Greek island of Samos, one of the northern Aegean islands. It is known for its world-famous sweet Muscat wine, rich ancient history, and stunning natural beauty. The birthplace of Pythagoras, Samos is full of culture and charm, offering delicious food and relaxing beaches. Whether you visit for a day trip from Turkey or stay longer, the island provides a perfect mix of relaxation and culture.
Samos is a fairly large island, so there are several popular places to stay. Vathy, the island’s capital, offers a lively harbour, authentic local atmosphere, and easy access to the rest of the island. Otherwise you have Pythagoreio, one of the most picturesque villages on Samos. It is home to well-preserved old houses with stunning red-tiled roofs and narrow alleys, creating a charming setting for your Greek island holiday.
Kokkari is a small seaside village famous for its pebble beaches and water sports, perfect for a more active stay. For a quieter, resort-style experience, Posidonio and Marathokampos are also good options, though they are more laidback than Pythagoreio or Kokkari.
Best months to visit: May, June, September & October
Island Hopping pairing ideas- Ferry to Rhodes, Kos, Syros, Symi, Tinos or Mykonos or fly to Rhodes.
Hotel Recommendations: Proteas Blu Resort (Luxury) Arion Hotel (Mid Range) Kalidon Panorama Hotel (Budget)
We hope this Greek island breakdown helps you pick the best Greek island holiday for you. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, activities and descriptions are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
