Searching for the best Greek islands to visit? The good news is that you have lots of choices. Greece has 227 inhabited islands where you can stay and over 6,000 uninhabited islands and islets that you can explore by day trip.

Whether you want traditional villages, busy cities, gorgeous beaches, or a UNESCO World Heritage Site or two, all the Greek Islands have something to offer. You could visit Santorini – one of the most romantic destinations in the world. You could visit Paxos and Antipaxos, some of the smallest inhabited islands in Greece. Or, for a party experience, you could fly to Zante or Mykonos.

Top Greek Islands to Visit in 2023

A holiday on a Greek island is the ultimate getaway. This guide will cover the best Greek islands.

1. Corfu

Corfu is hardly a hidden gem, and, in peak season, the island does get a little swamped by mass tourism. However, Corfu is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you are visiting off-season or in the shoulder seasons.

Corfu is Greece’s greenest island. It also has lots of historical sites dotted around the island. Corfu Town is perhaps the epicenter of history in Corfu and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to get there

Corfu’s one of the most popular Greek islands to visit and is one of the best Greek islands to fly into if you want an easy journey. Corfu International Airport is situated within a short taxi ride (or half an hour’s walk) of Corfu Town, and it has regular flights from many major European cities.

You can also catch ferries or plan cruises to Corfu. The island has a busy port with regular ferries.

Things to do

• Dine and shop in Corfu Old Town.

Corfu Old Town is an ancient city with UNESCO-protected houses, museums, and market streets. Allow at least half a day to treat yourself to a traditional meal and souvenir.

• Visit Cape Drastis.

Cape Drastis is one of the most spectacular beaches in Corfu. The limestone peninsula stretches out into eye-catching cliff and rock formations, with sections of beach along the rocks.

This Corfu Private Yacht Cruise takes you along the central east coast including of Corfu with with several stops for swimming and snorkelling as you explore Garitsa bay, Mouse Island, Vido Island, and Lazareto Island, and more.

• Take a day trip to Albania.

One of Corfu’s most unique aspects is its location. Make sure to take a boat trip to appreciate the coastline from the water and, if you have time, take a day trip by ferry to Albania. You can reach Sarande in just thirty minutes and explore Roman ruins at Butrint National Park with much fewer tourists than in Corfu.

2. Crete

Crete is a popular island amongst tourists and is the largest Greek island. It is full of wild, natural beauty and is home to the spectacular Samaria Gorge National Park. However, it also has a nightlife to rival that of even Mykonos, and you’ll find plenty of nightclubs and beach bars.

Crete is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you want a bit of everything. Nature, nightlife, attractions, and sandy beaches – Crete ticks many boxes.

How to get there

Getting to Crete is easy. The island has an international airport with many direct flights from major European cities. There is also a regular ferry network from other nearby islands.

If you are traveling to Crete from another Greek island, we recommend catching the ferry if possible. The island hopping experience is much more exciting and traditionally done by boat – plus, it is better for the environment.

Things to do

• Visit Samaria Gorge National Park

The national park is sat on the west coast of Crete and is a great place to spend a day. You can walk the Samaria Gorge, climb the White Mountains, and even go wine tasting. Book this tour of the Samaria Gorge from Chania for a challenging trek through one of Europe’s longest gorges.

• Visit Elafonsi

Forget golden sand; Elafonsi has pink beaches. Millions of crushed-up Foraminifera sea shells turn patches of the sand pink. It is quite a phenomenon.

• Heraklion Archaeological Museum

For Greek history, look no further. Heraklion is a fantastic museum full of Cretan artifacts and fascinating exhibitions. Book a private Heraklion wine and history tour to better understand the past of the mysterious Minoans and appreciate the objects found on the site as well as in many other settlements around Crete.

3. Naxos Island

Naxos Island is a traditional Cycladic island in the Aegean Sea, between offshore Athens and the west coast of Turkey.

Naxos is a laidback island with plenty of beautiful beaches and mountain villages. It is one of the best Greek islands for a quiet experience of Greece – away from all the crazy partying on more touristy islands.

How to get there

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands, so it’s the easiest to reach from Athens and by ferry. The great ferry connections to Naxos town make it an excellent island-hopping destination. You can easily get to it from bigger islands like Santorini and Mykonos.

You won’t find direct flights to Naxos from abroad. Therefore, you’ll have to plan a stopover in Athens if you fly into Naxos. Book this airport transfer to your hotel in a luxury vehicle for a smooth and hassle-free transfer to your accommodations.

Things to do

• Temple of Demeter

This temple dates back to 530 BCE and is scenically located on a hilltop above the village of Kastri. Allow an hour or two to wander the marble ruins and admire the panoramic view.

• Eggares Olive Oil Museum

Naxos is full of olive groves, and Eggares Museum is where to learn more about butter, olive oil, and olive harvesting. You’ll get access to informative exhibits and tasting opportunities.

• Cedar Forest of Alyko

If you love secluded beaches, Cedar Forest is for you. Forget forest walks; this spot is a remote beach surrounded by patches of shrubs and small trees. Quiet and idyllic, where better to unwind?

4. Zakynthos AKA (Zante)

Zante is one of the best Greek islands to visit for a party holiday. Lively, busy, and full of things to do, it is no wonder that the Ionian island of Zante is favored for a girls’ trip or boys’ holiday. Read more: Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece

Zante is actually the island’s Italian name, so we’ll reference it by its Greek name, Zakynthos, from now on. However, you can refer to it by either name, and everybody will know what you mean. Regardless this is one of the most beautiful islands to visit in Greece.

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Zakynthos is to fly. You’ll find direct flights from most European airports – which is very convenient and means no stopover in Athens.

If you want the island hopping experience, though, there are plenty of ferry services to Zakynthos. It is well-connected to the other Ionian Islands, the mainland, major Greek Islands, and some surrounding countries.

Things to do

• Navagio Beach

Navagio Beach, aka Shipwreck Beach, is the postcard image of Zakynthos. The cove is famous for its rusted shipwreck, curved limestone cliffs, and bright blue waters. Book this trip to Navagio Beach for a guided tour to the north of Zakynthos on a glass bottom seed boat.

• Blue Caves

Speaking of blue waters, the Blue Caves are another must-visit in Zakynthos. The sea caves are formed by unique cliff formations and are made bright blue by reflected light. You can book a boat tour to reach them, which often includes the chance to swim. This trip also includes a stop a the Blue Caves.

• Volunteer with sea turtles

Zakynthos is famed for its turtles; between May and October, every year, thousands of baby turtles hatch on its beaches. You can contact charities like Archelon The Sea Turtle Protection to get involved.

5. Skopelos

Skopelos is a quiet island in the Aegean Sea. It is incredibly beautiful and unassuming – full of laidback residential areas and picturesque scenery.

Skopelos is a hidden gem but definitely one of the best Greek Islands. Skopelos was only brought into the mainstream limelight after Mamma Mia used it as a filming location.

For Mamma Mia fans, Skopelos is easily the best Greek island. The district of Pelion is also worth a visit for die-hard fans. However, Mamma Mia aside, for a small island atmosphere with a peaceful vibe and stunning beaches, Skopelos is an excellent choice.

How to get there

You can only reach Skopelos by ferry. There’s no airport on Skopelos, so you’ll have to take to the seas.

Luckily, the island has several regular ferry connections, including from Thessaloniki, Kymi, and Volos. It is easiest to catch the ferry to Skopelos from the mainland.

Things to do

• Walk Skopelos Old Town

Skopelos Old Town is photogenic and the best place to wander on the island. The buildings are white-washed with colorfully painted details. You can snap photos, shop, and dine al fresco on car-free roads.

• Visit Agios Ioannis Church

For the Mamma Mia fans amongst you, Agrios Ioannis is where Sophie was married. However, the church is also stunningly located on a towering rock in the ocean. Visitors scale 198 steps to reach the top, where you get stunning views and a historical religious site.

• Go scuba diving

Get trained at Skopelos Dive Center and go scuba diving while on Skopelos. The ocean around the island is full of caves, wrecks, and reefs. Plus, it has some of the best water clarity in Greece.

6. Santorini

Santorini doesn’t need an introduction. The island is world-famous as one of the most romantic destinations on Earth. You can hardly open a social media app without seeing the white-washed buildings, cobbled streets, and sunset influencer shots.

Santorini is well-known as one of the best Greek Islands. While typically expensive and busy, it is a beautiful Greek island if you don’t mind sacrificing a budget-friendly and quiet experience of Greek island living. There are unique places to stay and things to do on Santorini. Want to splash out? Santorini is your best choice. Read more: Where to Stay in Santorini: Best Hotels and Towns

How to get there

Santorini is well-connected. It has Thira Airport, which has international and domestic flights, and there’s a high chance of finding a direct flight from abroad.

Of course, you can also catch a ferry if you wish. Santorini has plenty of connections to other islands in the Aegean Sea, plus connections to the mainland and other major islands, thanks to its superstar status.

Things to do

• Visit the Venetian castle

Akrotiri Venetian Castle is a collection of stunning ruins on a hilltop with panoramic views over Santorini. Plan a few hours in your itinerary to hike up and explore the castle remains.

• Visit the Santorini Wine Museum

Santorini is a leader in Greece’s wine scene. Here, you can learn about regional wine-making and get regular chances to taste products.

• Watch the sunset at Oia

Oia is where influencers get that sunset shot. The town is cut dramatically into a rugged coastline with all white-washed houses. It is definitely the place to be by sundown. This catamaran Tour is also a beautiful way to enjoy the sunset while taking in the views of the calderra and high sea cliffs of the isalnd.

7. Lefkada

Lefkada is a medium-sized Greek island known for its traditional villages and dramatic coastlines. The island’s beaches are plentiful, and its coasts have towering limestone cliffs. You’ll have many scenic beach days if you visit Lefkada.

Lefkada is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you are based on the mainland and looking for an add-on island experience. It is one of the only Greek islands you can drive to, which is often much more convenient than flying or sailing.

How to get there

Lefkada is the most accessible island to access from Mainland Greece and is attached by a causeway. If you rent a car or purchase a transfer, you can easily cross over to Lefkada for a day or a full holiday.

You can also reach Lefkada by boat, and it is well-connected to other Ionian islands like Kefalonia and Zakynthos. There is no airport actually on Lefkada Island, but there are so many just across the causeway that you won’t have an issue.

Things to do

• Lefkaditiki Gi Winery

It’s no secret that Greek wine is delicious. Visiting Lefkaditiki Gi Winery allows you to discover the production process and sample the products.

• Porto Katsiki

Porto Katsiki is the most stunning beach on Lefkada. You reach it via a steep stairway and can enjoy golden sand, bright blue water, and white limestone cliffs on all sides.

• Faneromeni Monastery

This monastery is scenically located up in Lefkada’s mountainous district. Visitors can admire the views, explore the monastery complex, and visit the small zoo that is quirkily built on the property.

8. Thassos

Thassos is one of the best Greek islands for an off-the-beaten-track experience. The island is half-covered in pine forests and olive oil farms – perfect for experiencing Greece’s agricultural, rural side.

In Thassos, you’ll spend your days hiking, eating, or relaxing on the quietest beaches in Greece. The island isn’t short of museums either, but primarily it is a place to visit and unplug from the stress of life at home and in cities.

How to get there

To get to Thassos, you must take a ferry from Kavala or Keramoti. The ferry connections for Thassos are pretty limited, so you only have these two departure options. However, the ferries do leave almost every hour daily. The island is also located just offshore of Kavala, so this shouldn’t put you too far out of your way.

If you fly, fly into Kavala International Airport, as you won’t be able to fly directly to Thassos since the island has no airport.

Things to do

• Giola Lagoon

Giola Lagoon is an emerald rock pool popular amongst swimmers and tourists. It is one of the best places to take a dip when visiting Thassos.

• Archeological Museum of Thassos

You can’t visit a Greek island without learning about its archeological finds and history. The Museum of Thassos has ancient artifacts on display and tells of the island’s ancient history.

• Olive Oil Museum

Thassos’ Olive Oil Museum is an excellent way to mix tasting with learning. You’ll follow the production of olive oil and then get a tasting session at the end.

9. Antipaxos

Antipaxos is a tiny island adjacent to the nearby island of Paxos. With an estimated 20 residents, Antipaxos is one of the best Greek islands to visit for a deserted, desert-island feel.

You can visit from Paxos on a day trip or base yourself on Antipaxos. Book overnight accommodation in advance though, as spots are understandably limited compared to other larger Greek islands.

How to get there

The only way to reach Antipaxos is by boat from Paxos. You can catch a water taxi from Paxos Harbor and arrive in Antipaxos in just fifteen to twenty minutes.

The nearest airport to Antipaxos (and Paxos) is in Corfu, so you’ll have to take two boat trips to reach Antipaxos. You can also take this tour from Corfu to explore Paxos and Antipaxos along the Turquoise waters of the Ionian sea to view the Caves of Paxos, admire the white cliffs of Erimitis and more.

Things to do

• Go snorkeling

Antipaxos has some of Greece’s best beaches. The waters are shallow, calm, and a beautiful blue – perfect for snorkeling. Just remember to bring snorkels with you or buy some from Paxos as there aren’t any shops in Antipaxos.

• Take a boat tour

Taking a boat tour around Antipaxos allows you to see its coastline from a unique vantage point. If you are lucky, you may also spot dolphins or turtles.

• Hike the island

The best thing about a small island is that you can hike the whole island. Allow around half a day, although the island only covers an area of 4km2.

10. Skiathos

Skiathos is cosmopolitan and lively. Yes, you’ll have sandy beaches and traditional areas. However, Skiathos is one of the best Greek islands for partying and has an outgoing nightlife with lots of hospitality venues.

Most nightlife is centered around Skiathos Town, so stay there if you want easy access to the action.

How to get there

Skiathos is well-connected to the other Sporades Islands by ferries. The island also has an airport with international and domestic charters. You can probably find a flight that flies directly to Skiathos, but you may have to stopover at Athens if not.

Things to do

• Shop and dine in Skiathos Old Town

Skiathos Town is that postcard-perfect center, with irregular grey slabbed streets and white-washed cafes and shops at every corner. Visit in the late afternoon for shopping and enjoy dusk dining al fresco.

• Evangelista Monastery

Evangelista Monastery is a fantastic example of religious and historical architecture. It was also an essential base for Greek fighters in the Greek and Ottoman unrest. Allow at least a couple of hours to take in the monastery’s beauty and significance.

• Lalaria Beach

Lalaria is a stunning beach surrounded by cliffs so steep that it is only accessible by boat. You can plan a boat trip and easily spend a whole day at Lalaria.

11. Astypalea

Want a Greek island that is lesser visited? Astypalea is one of the best Greek islands to visit for a quiet experience.

The island has Cycladic architecture and fantastic beaches and is small enough to get around on foot. It is easily one of the best islands to get off the beaten track, and you shouldn’t struggle with crowds of tourists – even in peak season.

How to get there

You can fly to Astypalea from Athens about three times a week. But that is the island’s only regular aircraft connection, so make sure to plan ahead.

It is best to reach Astypalea by boat as there are regular connections between nearby Greek islands.

Things to do

• Astypalea Castle

Astypalea’s Venetian Castle sits on a hill above Chora, the island’s major town. You can hike up to explore the ruins and are rewarded with fantastic views and lots of historical and archeological information.

• Traditional windmills

Eight windmills famously line a road in Chora, and it’s well worth walking to take a look. The windmills are white-washed with orange terracotta roofs and are popularly featured on postcards.

• Drakos Cave

Drakos Cave is an exciting place to visit and full of stalactites and stalagmites. Drakos Cave is an excellent addition to your itinerary if you like natural attractions.

12. Mykonos

If you want flashy, outgoing nightlife, Mykonos is one of the best Greek islands to visit. Mykonos is known for its dance clubs and world-renowned DJ appearances.

Unlike party hotspots like Magaluf and Kavos though, Mykonos also retains a luxury, upscale side to its hospitality. Nightlife can be classy, and Mykonos is the best Greek island to visit and prove that.

How to get there

Flying into Mykonos Airport is easy, and you’ll find regular flights from across Europe.

Mykonos also has regular ferries from other nearby islands, so you can always stick to the seas while traveling to the island.

Things to do

• Paraportiani Church

This famous church is entirely white and looks like a mound of rock rather than a building. However, the orthodox church is easily one of the most famous churches in Greece and is worth visiting.

• Mykonos Windmills

Once practical and now just beautiful, the Mykonos Windmills are located on a hill outside Mykonos Town. It’s well worth a walk up to admire the windmills and enjoy the view over the town.

• Little Venice

Health and safety nightmare or the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen? We’ll let you decide. Little Venice is an area in Mykonos where colored balconies and white-washed houses dangle right over the ocean.

13. Rhodes

Rhodes is known for its history and definitely has a World Heritage Site or two. The island got its name from the Greek goddess Rhode, who was the daughter of Poseidon, and it is full of myths, archeology, and cultural significance.

Rhodes is the best Greek island to visit if you like Ancient Greek mythology and history. Take this Rhodes cruise to Simi Island where you’ll visit one of the most traditional and colorful islands in the Aegean Sea.

How to get there

The best way to get to Rhodes is to fly into Rhodes Diagoras International Airport. However, there are also regular ferry services between nearby Dodecanese islands and the mainland. If you want to island-hop instead, there are enough regular boats to sail to Rhodes.

Things to do

• Acropolis of Rhodes

The Acropolis is one of Rhodes’ most famous archeological sites. You can wander different ruins, including an amphitheater.

• Rodini Park

Rodini Park is a suburban park like no other. The park has fairy-like walkways with twisted branches as railings, shaded water features, and peacocks roaming en route.

• Street of Knights of Rhodes

Drinking at inns on a medieval street is not what you imagine a Greek island holiday to be like, but it is an experience you should have. The cobbled ‘Street of Knights’ is an exciting place for a drink or two.

14. Evia

Evia is not the most commonly mentioned holiday destination, but we have no idea why. The island has the biggest complex of natural hot springs in Greece. Out of all of our ‘best Greek islands’, Evia is where to go if you want to experience bathing in springs.

Evia is also huge. It is the second-largest Greek island with plenty of attractions and even mountains to climb, like Dirfi. For outdoor adventures, Evia is the best Greek island.

How to get there

Like Lefkada, Evia can be reached by car from the mainland. Evia is connected to the mainland by a large bridge, so it is an excellent option if you’d prefer to drive.

While Evia doesn’t have an airport, you can easily fly to Athens and then pick up a rental car to reach Evia.

Things to do

• Edipsos Springs

Edipsos is a spa town in Evia and is home to many thermal bath resorts. You can bathe in the luxury resorts or head to the beach to soak in the public hot springs for free. The town has over 60 springs, so you will find a quiet one.

• Hike to find Drakospita

When hiking on hills and mountains in Evia, it’s common to find rock houses. These buildings are made with stacked rocks – similarly to drystone walls – and are called ‘dragon houses’. They aren’t just valuable shelters; some date back to the 8th century BC.

• Drimona Waterfall

Hiking to and swimming in Drimona Waterfall is one of the most fun things to do in Evia. Plus, there is a small fossil collection by the entrance.

15. Kefalonia

Kefalonia is where to head to eat good food, drink wine, and unwind rather than party until the early hours. You’ll find the odd bar or two, but the focus is usually more on quality beverages than quantity.

Kefalonia is one of the best Greek islands to choose if you want to be surrounded by nature and just enjoy gorgeous beaches and hospitality.

How to get there

Kefalonia has an international airport, so the best way to get to Kefalonia is to fly. Most European cities have flights to Kefalonia Airport.

There are also regular ferries to the Greek mainland and many islands in the Ionian Sea, including Zakynthos and Corfu.

Things to do

• Meet sea turtles

Thanks to Kefalonia’s quiet waters, you can find loggerhead sea turtles all over the island’s beaches and waters. The most reliable place to spot them is Argostoli Harbor, so head there first.

• Climb Mount Aenos

Fancy a challenge? Hike the 6.5km trail up to the summit of Mount Aenos. You’ll need a full day, and the hike will take around five hours one way.

• Spend a day in Assos

Assos is a coastal village with colorful houses. It’s the perfect place to dine out and spend an afternoon wandering.

16. Milos

Milos is known for its striking coastlines and limestone rock shelving. While not as busy as its neighboring Greek islands like Corfu or Zakynthos, it certainly has a buzz.

In peak seasons, Milos’ nightlife is enough to entertain you for a few nights. Then, throughout the day, the volcanic island has a lot of natural and historical attractions to explore. Milos is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you want to try something slightly new.

How to get there

You can easily access Milos by ferry, and the island is well-connected by boat to other Cyclades islands.

Milos also has a domestic airport, so you can reach Milos by flying internally (usually from Athens). There are no international flights to Milos though, meaning you’ll most likely have an in-direct flight.

Things to do

• Sarakiniko Beach

Sarakiniko Beach looks a bit like you’ve landed on the moon. It is surrounded by overhanging white volcanic cliffs and is an amazing place for a beach day.

• Milos Mining Museum

If you want an insight into Milos’ industrial history, the Mining Museum is a great place to start. It contains exhibits and artifacts, plus educational videos on the island’s mining history.

• Catacombs of Milos

Brave? The Catacombs of Milos are a little creepy but otherwise impressive. The Christian burial tombs are in an underground network that dates back to the 1st century.

17. Syros

Syros is one of the best Greek islands to escape cruise ships and mass tourism. The island is small, with coastal cycadean villages and just a sprinkling of taverns and bars. Syros also has a rich cultural heritage, so you’ll have plenty of attractions to appreciate.

Syros has just enough infrastructure to keep things convenient yet not too much to disrupt the calm atmosphere. Syros is a great island for a peaceful retreat. For a quiet, authentic elegance, you shouldn’t look much further.

How to get to Syros

Syros Airport is only domestic and has a handful of weekly flights from Athens. You could fly if you want to, but getting the ferry is much more popular – even from Athens.

Ferry connections include all the main Cyclades islands and a few places on the mainland.

Things to do in Syros

• Agios Stefanos

Sunset lovers, Agios Stefanos is the ultimate spot. The tiny Catholic church is tucked under a rock and is a beautiful place to sit and watch the ocean.

• Saint Nicholas

Another sacred spot, Saint Nicholas, is an Orthodox church in the town of Ermoupoli. If you want an indoor activity, touring the church interior is fascinating, and there are ornate paintings, designs, and relics.

• Miaouli Square

Miaouli Square is an architectural highlight of Syros. The square is surrounded by neoclassical buildings and rows of palm trees – the perfect spot for a morning stroll.

18. Symi

When a Greek island is described as ‘charming,’ it can seem cliche. However, you also immediately get the right idea. Symi is charming in every sense of the word; friendly, colorful, pretty, and slightly reserved.

Symi is one of the best Greek islands if you want a family atmosphere or a quiet couple’s holiday.

How to get to Symi

Symi does not have an airport, so you’ll have to reach the island by ferry.

The best way to reach Symi is by flying to Rhodes and catching a ferry there. However, Symi is also connected to many nearby islands and the mainland if you don’t mind a longer voyage.

Things to do in Symi

• Symi Castle

Symi Castle is a 14th-century-built castle set on a hill above Ano Symi. It takes approximately 30 minutes to hike there and is best timed with sunset for the best views over Symi.

• Take a boat tour

Symi has lots of beaches and coves that are inaccessible without a boat. Hopping on a boat for a day is a fun way to discover more of Symi’s hidden corners.

• Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis

This monastery is one of the most beautiful on Symi, which is saying something, as Symi has a lot of stunning monasteries. The monastery is still functioning and is home to a brotherhood of monks, but you can tour the property during opening hours.

19. Donoussa

Donoussa is a small, remote island located off the shores of Naxos. Laidback and unassuming, Donoussa has a real ‘manana, manana’ atmosphere and is a grand island to experience rural Greece.

Donoussa is safe, but you should be prepared to deal with fewer facilities than on other Greek islands. Donussa is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you are happy with a simplistic lifestyle on holiday.

How to get to Donoussa

Donoussa is only accessible by ferry. You can catch a ferry to Donoussa from most islands in the Aegean Sea and Athens on the mainland.

The best way to reach Donoussa is to fly into Naxos and catch a short ferry.

Things to do in Donoussa

• Take a boat tour to the caves

On Donoussa boat tours, you can visit the Cave of the Wall and the Cave of Fokospilla. These caves make a fun day out, and the light reflections often brighten the appearance of the water.

• Church of Holy Cross

This church is an eye-catching white building with a blue dome. It was built to house the Holy Cross relic and is the site of celebrations every September the 14th.

• Kedros Beach

Kedros Beach is popular because of its beach bar and dramatic WW2 shipwreck. If you want an exciting beach day, Kedros is a good option.

20. Serifos

Serifos is another remote island on our ‘best Greek islands’ list. Serifos is everything you want on a quiet Greek island – full of tradition, the best beaches, and friendly hospitality.

Be prepared to bring a beach towel, as you won’t find beach facilities and endless convenient infrastructure. But, if that’s what you are avoiding, Serifos is one of the best Greek islands to visit to escape the crowds.

How to get to Serifos

Like many remote Greek islands, Serifos is only accessible by ferry. It’s best to fly into Athens and then catch the ferry to Serifos from there.

Things to do in Serifos

• Go tasting at Chrysoloras Winery

Chrysoloras Winery is scenically perched on a hill in rural Serifos. You can learn about local wine production and sample the best Greek white and rose wines.

• Hike the mining trail

Mining is central to the history of most Greek islands, Serifos included. The mining trail is a great way to combine outdoor activity with history, and the trail passes disused mining machinery, railway tracks, and mine shafts.

• Attend a pottery workshop

Kerameio Ceramic Studio is a relaxed, creative place to spend a few hours. And what better souvenir to take home than one you’ve made yourself? Attend a pottery workshop if you can, or purchase some local pottery from the gift shop.

21. Paxos

So, we’ve covered Antipaxos, but what if Antipaxos was just a bit too quiet for your liking? Paxos is a fantastic choice if you still want to stay in the Paxi islands.

Paxos is still slow-paced and laidback. It just has more infrastructure and entertainment than Antipaxos. Paxos is the best Greek island if you want a gentle introduction to rural living. Plus, the local boat trips are amazing.

How to get to Paxos

There is no airport at Paxos, so you must use the ferry. The quickest way to get to Paxos is to fly into Corfu and then get the ferry from Corfu to Paxos. However, there are many ferry connections between Paxos and other islands and the mainland if you prefer to take a different route.

Things to do in Paxos

• Shop and dine in Gaios

Gaios is the capital and center of action in Paxos. Whether you want a boat trip, souvenir, or meal out, Gaios is the place to go. Allow at least half a day to enjoy the town.

• Erimitis Bay

Erimitis Bay is the prettiest beach in Paxos. To reach it, you descend (what feels like) endless flights of stairs. But, at the bottom, surrounded by limestone cliffs and sitting on a sandy beach, it is all worthwhile.

• Tripitos Arch

Tripitos Arch is a unique cliff formation best seen by boat trips. If you fancy a challenge on the land though, you can complete a hike to overlook the arch from the cliffs.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of which one of our ‘best’ Greek islands you choose, you’ll have a fantastic experience. The Greek islands are known for their delicious food, warm hospitality, and beautiful beaches.

If you want an unforgettable holiday experience, you’ve already made a great decision by narrowing down your search to the best Greek islands. Greece is full of beautiful islands and places to visit.

Still, picking the island most suited to you will make your holiday even better. We hope that you’ve found your perfect match while reading this guide.