The Greek islands are attractive not only due to the amazingly beautiful landscapes, the unusually warm sea of blue color, but also accessibility. Today in Greece you can relax well and inexpensively, the main thing is to be able to set priorities and plan your vacation in advance.

Those who have been lucky enough to have already visited Greece will argue that there most likely cannot be any ugly islands there, because the sea itself is an unusually bright blue color and even if it surrounds a nondescript stone, it will still look beautiful.

This post is for those who are now concerned about questions such as: Where to go on vacation in the summer, Where to relax inexpensively? What are the best islands in Greece? Where to relax in Greece?

10th place. Symi Island

Near the famous island of Rhodes, there is a small island of Symi, which at first glance looks more like an Italian village. The whole difference is in the colors. For some reason, local residents decided that traditionally painting houses white was not interesting. Now, they are all colorful but stick to pretty pastel colors. The towns on this island are like pictures - it’s impossible to take your eyes off, and every photo is just a masterpiece. In addition to architecture, the island is not without beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine and friendly hosts.

9th place. Paxos Island

The smallest of the seven main islands of the Ionian Sea. Paxos is small but very, very beautiful - lovely beaches with clear, warm water, a riot of greenery and tranquility are the main advantages of this paradise island. Located next to Corfu, a little to the south. The best way get there by ferry from Corfu.

8th place. Skiathos Island

The island of Skiathos belongs to the Northern Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea. There are beautiful bays and beaches, a lot of greenery and picturesque villages. Developed infrastructure, hospitable residents and vibrant nightlife make this island one of the most popular among the eastern islands of Greece.

7th place. Zakynthos Island

Small but very cute and cool island. It is here that the famous Navagio beach is located, which is present on every second postcard from Greece (the first is from Santorini). The symbol of Zakynthos is the majestic Karetta Karetta turtles, which live only here and the locals carefully take care of them and protect them in every possible way.

6th place. Mykonos Island

Mykonos has everything - clean beautiful beaches, snow-white Greek houses and fiery parties. Mykonos is considered the best island for young and energetic people who, in addition to a beach holiday, love to have fun and dance.

5th place. Kefalonia

The largest island Ionian Sea, beautiful and majestic Kefalonia pleases tourists primarily with its solitude. Despite the fact that according to statistics, this island is quite popular, due to the many beaches and beautiful places, it seems one hundred people is very few. Who loves a relaxing and quiet break from the bustle of the city, Kefalonia is for you perfect place.

4th place. Crete

The largest of the Greek islands and perhaps the most popular among tourists. Crete differs from the rest of Greece with its own customs and temperament, dishes and architecture. The beaches on Crete are long, with fine sand, the water is warmer than on the northern islands and the cuisine deserves special attention.

3rd place. Corfu

The greenest of the Ionian islands and the holiday destination of many European royalty. Thanks to its mild climate and rich flora and fauna, the Greeks consider Corfu one of best places to improve health. Corfu differs from other Ionian islands in its rich history, large and fairly cosmopolitan capital, many museums and attractions. In addition to all this, Corfu is famous for its small but very picturesque beaches with clean, clear water and many colorful fish.

2nd place. Santorini

A calling card of Greece, a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds, you don’t need to say anything about this island; everyone has heard about its uniqueness and beauty. The best way to get to Santorini is by ferry from Crete. Despite the fact that most people spend only a couple of days on Santorini as an excursion, there are beaches there, but since the island itself is of volcanic origin, the sand on them is black and red.

1 place. Lefkada Island

The island is not yet familiar to everyone. Some do not classify this paradise as an island because it is located very close to continental Greece and is connected by a bridge. However, this is the only Greek island that can be reached without the help of an airplane or ferry.

Lefkada is one of the Ionian islands, the fourth largest after Kefalonia, Corfu and Zakynthos. It is located north of Kefalonia and south of Corfu. As green and picturesque as Cofrou, but the beaches are even better than in Kefalonia.

The best way to get there is to fly to Athens or Thessaloniki, rent a car and get there on your own in 4-5 hours, especially since without a car it is impossible to feel and see all the beauty of this island.

Lefkada took first place in our ranking, even after the well-known Santorini, because the beaches on this island are absolutely fabulous. And also because few people still know about this amazing island. There the sea is an extraordinary turquoise color, the sand is white and soft, the villages, like everywhere else in Greece, are small and picturesque, and the people are friendly and pleasant.

A list of the best islands in Greece where you can have a great holiday depending on your wishes. Do you want to bask in the sand or are you attracted to ancient history and culture, Greece will satisfy all your expectations.

List of top 19 best islands in Greece

Greece is a very beautiful and inexpensive country. The only negative is that Russians need a visa to Greece. If you don’t mind struggling with paperwork for a week, then feel free to choose this country for your vacation. This article will help you choose where to go in Greece.

Islands of Greece: where to go for a beach holiday

Zakynthos, Zakynthos

I think that if you have been interested in Greece before, you have seen photographs of Navagio beach more than once. This is perhaps the most popular and frequently photographed beach in Greece. In 1981, the wreckage of an old smuggling ship washed up here. Navagio can only be reached by boat, but even so, there are always a lot of people here. The southern part of Zakynthos island is often crowded with tourists. It is much calmer in the north and west. There are also excellent beaches there, such as Gerakas, where you can watch sea turtles, and Tsilivi, which is ideal for family vacation.

Skyros

The least known island in the Sporades. Skyros is distinguished by its vibrant traditions and special character. The capital, as you probably already understood, Chora, is located along the slopes of a hill, from here it opens up very beautiful view to the Aegean Sea. A medieval castle rises above the city. The most popular beach is Molos; it has all the infrastructure for a beach holiday. The ferry to Skyros departs from the port of Kymi on the island of Euboea, and in the summer ferries run from Skopelos and Alonissos.

Islands of Greece, where it is better to relax with family

Corfu

Rhodes

On this wonderful island you can both get acquainted with the history of Greece and plunge into the turbulent nightlife. The entire center of the island was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. From the historical side, you will be interested in: Kritinia Castle, a 16th-century Venetian fort and the most important local landmark - the Colossus, a 30-meter statue of Helios - the sun god. The clubs and beaches here are also beyond praise. Many tourists choose Rhodes as their main destination, periodically making forays to neighboring islands.

Island of Greece with the best food

Crete

The southern location of Crete has generously rewarded it with a long harvest season, and therefore there is always a lot of delicious food here. Crete is the most popular island among tourists; it has good tourist infrastructure and many taverns. When you go to Crete, make sure to try snails, whether fried or steamed, this dish is rightfully considered a delicacy. Also, the largest island of Greece is famous for being the home of the Palace of Knossos - the palace of King Minos and the well-known labyrinth of the Minotaur.

The best islands in Greece for a relaxing holiday

Koufonisia

Koufonisia is a group of 3 small islands. Pano Koufonisia is the smallest and most densely populated of them. Its area is only 3.5 square meters. km, and most residents are engaged in fishing. That’s why they joke that there are more boats in Koufonisia than there are people. Kato Koufonisia is slightly larger - 4.3 sq. km. It is intended primarily for tourists and is separated from the previous one by a small strait 200 meters wide. The third island is Keros, it is the largest and uninhabited, and is under state protection.

The Koufonisia Islands are great for an inexpensive and relaxing holiday. There was no electricity here until 1980, and there are still no roads. All people move on foot or on bicycles, fortunately, their small size allows them.

Karpathos

Karpathos is located between Rhodes and Crete. Due to its fairly secluded position, tourism on the island has recently begun to develop. The southern part is most suitable for tourism, the northern and central remain authentic with traditional Greek villages. Karpathos is famous for its golden beaches and azure waters. This island is well suited for families and hikers. Trekking trails are everywhere here; if you walk along them, you can see truly picturesque places.

Nisyros

Not the most popular island in Greece, but no less beautiful than the others. This is an ideal place for a quiet and relaxing retreat. First of all, Nisyros is still famous active volcano in the center of the island. This volcano is the youngest in Greece. Mandraki and Nikia are the most picturesque villages here with traditional Greek architecture and picturesque views. The beaches are clean, you can stay in Nisyros with accommodation, or come on an excursion from the island of Kos. Ferries here run daily and you can live on different islands.

The most eco-friendly island in Greece

Hydra

Perhaps Hydra is the most impressive island in Greece. It is located near Athens, so there are always a lot of tourists here. The city is located on the slope of a hill that skirts the port, and amazes with the beauty of its mansions. The main feature of this place is the complete absence of cars and other transport; they are simply prohibited. Everyone moves on their own, on boats or donkeys, which are something of a calling card of Hydra. Many Hollywood stars have also bought homes here.

The best islands for active recreation

Andros

Andros is only 2 hours from Athens. This is a beautiful island with a rich history. Batsi is the most touristically developed area. There are many wonderful beaches here, such as Golden Beach and Agios Petros. To get to the beaches of Ahla, Vitali and Vlychada you will need to go on a hike, because... this is a full track. The capital of the island, Chora, has interesting art museums where world exhibitions are often held.

Lefkada, Lefkada

Lefkada amazes its guests in an extraordinary way blue their beaches. This island is connected to the Greek mainland by a small bridge, so it can be reached by car without taking a ferry. This place is perfect for families, lovers and groups of friends. The most beautiful beaches on the island are Porto Katsiki, Egremni and Kathisma. Lefkada is popular with water sports enthusiasts.

The best islands in Greece for lovers

Santorini

Santorini is the most romantic island in Greece and, perhaps, in the world. Santorini had one of the largest volcanic eruptions in the world, scientists suggest that Santorini is part of the lost Atlantis. Who knows who knows. Undoubtedly, there are striking volcanic landscapes here, unique beaches with gray, red and black sand, making a striking contrast with the azure color of the sea. Santorini is a very beautiful island with wonderful architecture - here and there snow-white open houses with blue roofs, good service and fairly high prices, because you have to pay for pleasure. It's worth it.

Symi

I think you already understand everything about Santorini, but I won’t deprive Symi either. Symi is a tiny island that amazes its guests with its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Symi has one of the most impressive ports in the world. Mansions located in a semicircle in the mountains, with breathtaking views of the sea, will not leave anyone indifferent. Walks along the port will be remembered for their romance. The beaches on the island are small and clean. Of the attractions here, perhaps, the only one is the Panormitis Monastery. The island is ideal for a family holiday or for a couple.

Skopelos

First of all, the island of Skopelos is attractive for families and lovers. It became famous mainly due to the film Mama Mia, which was filmed here. Therefore, the impressive church of Agios Ioannis Kastri is known as the Church of Mama Mary. Town and Glossa are the 2 main villages on the island, they are built on top of a hill overlooking beautiful view to the Aegean Sea. Ferries to Skopelos depart from the ports of Volos or Agios Konstantinos.

The best island for gay people

Lesbos

In Greece, most representatives of sexual minorities can be found on the islands of Lesvos and Mykonos. The island of Lesbos became famous thanks to the ancient Greek poet Sappho, whose poems praised love for both sexes. The city is located between two hills in the shape of an amphitheater. The largest castle in the Mediterranean is located here - the Genoese castle. Another unusual attraction is the petrified forest.

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A fifth of the territory of all Greece belongs to the islands. There aren't any here! Big and small, mountainous and deserted, cheerful and secluded. This list can be continued indefinitely. We will talk about the most popular of them, and at the end we will summarize and find out what a particular island is famous for.

Crete

It is the southernmost and largest island of Greece. According to ancient Greek legend, Zeus himself was born here. Even the caves - his birthplace - have been preserved. Crete was the center of one of the most mysterious civilizations in the world - the Minoans.

Now Crete offers holidays for every taste, and historical excursions, and Orthodox shrines, and a fun nightlife and a measured, relaxing holiday by the sea. Everyone will find here what they are looking for.

Rhodes

One of the largest islands in Greece in size and importance. It is located in close proximity to the coast of Turkey, but this does not prevent it from being Greek to the core. The symbol of the island is a deer. They greet everyone arriving on the island by sea. In the port there are two famous columns with statues of deer.

The no less famous knight's castle of Rhodes will enchant both an adult, and even more so a child who dreams of ancient times. The well-preserved old town will give you an idea of ​​how life was like many years ago.

Corfu

In Greek this island is called Kerkyra. Royalty and screen stars come here to relax. European and Arab rich people buy villas here. Corfu is located close to Italy, so here you can find more Italian architecture, cuisine and habits of the inhabitants.

This island can offer both a luxurious holiday and a completely affordable one. Although prices will be higher compared to other regions of Greece.

Thassos

The northernmost of the islands Aegean Sea. Covered with lush vegetation, this island can be called one of the Greek wonders. Snow-white marble is mined here. Due to this, many bays are covered with large and small pebbles of true white color.

The stunningly beautiful landscapes are mesmerizing, the quiet beaches give peace and relaxation to the soul and body. Summers here are not hot, and winters are very pleasant. Its climate was praised by Hippocrates himself, who lived here for several years.

Zakynthos

The island is a mystery. Rocky shores, beaches closed from land, rich history, unique architecture - all this is Zakynthos. It is also called "Greek Venice", but not for the abundance of canals, but for the similarity in the design style of city blocks. This is not surprising, because it is located in the Ionian Sea, adjacent to the Adriatic Sea, washing Venice. Navagio Bay with a ship abandoned by smugglers has become the hallmark of the island.

You can visit caves and grottoes with absolutely clear blue water. Marine reserves are home to huge sea turtles, and on land you can see an olive tree that is more than 2,500 years old.

Euboea (Evia)

The second island of Greece after Crete. Located just a few kilometers from the mainland. It is connected to the latter by two bridges – Old and New. The combination of ebbs and flows creates a unique a natural phenomenon– standing waves. Aristotle himself was involved in solving it. On the island you can find rocks, waterfalls, lush vegetation, and beautiful landscapes. It is incredibly beautiful here; the island is suitable for holidays all year round.

Of course, not everyone will risk swimming in the sea, but in the winter months there are special pleasures here - thermal springs and spa services. Here there is one of the oldest resorts in Greece, and in the whole world - it is already more than 120 years old.

Kifira

It is located just south of the Peloponnese. Very popular among those seeking solitude. Suitable for lovers and newlyweds. It is very beautiful in here. According to legend, Aphrodite was born here. The Greeks settled the island a long time ago, more than 2.5 thousand years ago. Since then, it has passed from hand to hand, which remains a memory in the form of a Venetian fortress. John the Theologian lived on the island; his caves have survived to this day.

Between Kythira and Crete there is a small island - Antikethera. There they found a mechanical prototype of the first computer.

Mykonos

The most fun island in Greece. Life does not stop here after midnight until the morning. Clubs, bars and discos are open from 11 pm to 6 am. Many people come here precisely for this. "Golden" youth from all over the world spend here summer holidays. Representatives of non-traditional orientations also like to visit the island.

In addition to nightlife, you can find other pleasant things in Mykonos - it is very beautiful, colorful, and romantic. Traditional Greek coastal towns, mills, mountain landscapes, and varied beaches will delight the eye and body. Here you can windsurf, wander through the mountains, visit cozy villages and enjoy cuisine in taverns on the waterfront.

Santorini (Thira)

The island has become the photo calling card of Greece. Snow-white houses go down to the sea along the mountain slope. The shutters and doors painted bright blue match the colors of the sea and sky. Exotic black and red volcanic beaches attract with their unusualness. Sunset on the island is a world-famous show. The setting sun is greeted with applause.

Some couples specially hold wedding ceremonies here. From the height there is a stunning view of the bay and the island. Huge cruise ships come here, so there are always a lot of guests on Santorini. Living here is beautiful, but very expensive. For more than 3,500 years, local residents have been growing grapes in Thira and making wine with a specific taste from it.

Skiathos

The small island is beautiful, colorful and covered with greenery. Hiking is very popular here and there is nightlife. Those who watched the movie “Mamma Mia!” probably asked where it was filmed. So, it's here.

Kos

Hippocrates was born on Kos. Perhaps that’s why people here really like a healthy lifestyle. Almost everyone on the island rides a bicycle.

Patmos

Many Orthodox believers come here to see with their own eyes the place where Divine revelation was given to John the Theologian. The Apocalypse Caves have survived to this day.

The islands of Greece will give you an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.

Have a nice holiday!

Greece is one of the most popular resort countries for most tourists from all over the world. There are several wonderful islands in this country, each with its own characteristics, unique offerings and attractions. You are faced with a rather difficult choice - where to go on your trip and not go wrong with the resort. This is why we will tell you everything about each of them.

The most famous resorts in Greece are the islands of Kos, Rhodes, Corfu, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and others.

Crete is the largest Greek island and the most popular tourist resort, visited by millions of travelers every year. Many people call Crete the Happy Island for its wonderful weather and natural beauty of the local landscapes. Here you will find not only luxury hotels with expensive luxury rooms, but also affordable hotels with quality service. Your vacation in Crete promises you delightful sun, warm azure sea, an interesting excursion program and amazing hospitality of the local residents. If you can't afford to pay for luxury villas on the Mediterranean coast with a private stretch of white beach, be prepared to relax among... huge amount the same tourists.

Corfu is the most picturesque place in all of Greece and you have probably heard this name at least once. Corfu is a small charming island in the Ionian Sea. Despite its modest size, Corfu offers its guests a delightful beach holiday on the most beautiful coasts, amazing landscapes of high mountains and rock formations, romantic bays and cozy restaurants located along the coast. Holidays on the island of Corfu will appeal to both married couples with small children and newlyweds who come here for their honeymoon.

Santorini is one of the Greek islands, distinguished by its special color and stunning views of snow-white cities. Santorini is a fairytale world with fantastic landscapes, steep cliffs and the most impressive sunsets. This island is chosen by many couples for a romantic holiday, who often find it difficult to leave this stunning place. In Santorini you can enjoy the beautiful west coast beaches, expressive architecture and unique atmosphere of this mysterious resort.

Kos is also considered a popular resort in Greece, comparable in terms of the quality of service provided to Crete. Here you can also find many luxurious expensive hotels, but the advantage of the island is that the local beaches are not so crowded. For lovers of a relaxing holiday on the island there are secluded enclosed coves with small but very colorful beaches, as well as a large number of water entertainment for active youth. In addition, the island of Kos is of great interest in the field of archaeology, because it was here that traces of the life and scientific discoveries of Hippocrates were discovered. It will take a lot of time to explore all the island's attractions and get to know its culture, so don't expect to get bored on the beaches here.

Rhodes is the oldest Greek resort, which has preserved the ruins of ancient temples, palaces and burial places. This is where it will be interesting for tourists who prefer combining a beautiful beach holiday on the coasts of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas with a rich excursion program. In addition to small villages with charming houses and friendly residents, you can visit and see with your own eyes the ancient Temple of Apollo, the Monolith Castle, the famous Lindos Acropolis, the entire city of Kamiros, which has come down to us since the Middle Ages, and many other interesting resort sites.

Zakynthos is a stunning island resort in Greece, boasting fantastic natural beauty and the amazing underwater world of the Ionian Sea. In addition to the endless sandy beaches that stretch along the entire coast, you can enjoy unreal landscapes of olive groves, wild green valleys and hills, dense forests covering the mountain slopes, wonderful coves and majestic cliffs. This place is perfect for diving enthusiasts who will be able to see sunken ships, deep underwater caves and numerous marine life, among which you can find dolphins, Caretta turtles, harbor seals and beautiful tropical fish. The main attraction of the resort is the Blue Caves, famous for the incredible beauty of rock arches rising above the bright sea water of emerald shades.

Paros is a picturesque resort island of Greece, part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea. Here the tourism sector is much less developed than, say, on Crete or other popular islands of Greece. However, this is not at all because there are no interesting sights and delightful landscapes on Paros, but the reason for this is the extraction of the famous Parian marble, which provides the island with money and is the main item in the local budget. But for those who choose this place to spend their vacation, the island will open in all its glory with deserted sandy beaches, blooming bougainvillea gardens, olive groves and no less interesting architecture. This resort can be safely chosen for noisy groups who want to party all night long, meeting local residents and making new friends. Almost all the youth of neighboring resorts spend their weekends here, throwing long parties in local clubs.

Samos is considered an ideal resort for lovers of diving and snorkeling. The island stands out among its neighbors for its incredibly sunny weather and stunning clear water. Countless diving schools have gathered here to teach you the art of diving and show you all the beauty underwater world with its amazing inhabitants. The beaches of the island are mostly pebbly, which in no way spoils the impression of a holiday in Samos. In addition to a beach holiday with water activities, here you can explore the ruins ancient temple the goddess Hera, the remains of the ancient city of Pythagorion with several masterpieces of engineering and other attractions.

Skiathos Island

Skiathos is a small Greek island with picturesque vegetation, while most other resorts in Greece will provide you with beautiful landscapes of cliffs hanging over the sea and high mountains built up with wonderful houses. Here you will find green hills covered with pine forests, colorful flower gardens and parks covering almost the entire territory of Skiathos. Your holiday, of course, will not be complete without a luxurious beach holiday on the pristine coasts of the Aegean Sea. Among the attractions of this resort are several medieval monasteries, the ancient ruins of the Kastro fortress, stone-paved streets and other sites for tourists to visit.

Mykonos is considered the most bohemian resort in Greece, where celebrities and richest people peace. From the outside, the island resembles the resort of Santorini, but after spending only a couple of hours here, the similarity immediately disappears with minimal exploration of the atmosphere and culture of this island. Mykonos also amazes travelers with its cozy snow-white houses, windmills and incredibly narrow streets. On the island you can find a lot of beautiful sandy beaches with the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. In terms of its beauty and local color, Mykonos can only be compared with a miniature Venice. Relaxing among all this fabulous atmosphere will make your stay here incredibly romantic and unforgettable.

Each of the Greek islands listed above has its own characteristics and attractions that can turn your trip into an amazing and fantastic adventure that will leave a mark on your life for a long time. Having decided on your desires and vacation plans, you can safely choose several options for Greek resorts and go to the nearest travel agency for a ticket. In any case, you will get a lot of new impressions, learn the history of this country and make many new friends.