When thinking about a Greek island holiday, all manner of things come to mind. Ancient architecture, delicious food, and stunning scenery. Perhaps the biggest draw of the country is the Greek islands, with each offering something different for travelers to the country. A holiday in Greece could take in the black lava beaches and active volcanoes of Santorini, the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos, or the beautiful sheltered coves of Zante. In this article, we’ll show you the five best islands to visit in Greece and tell you what to expect from a visit to each.
Best Islands to Visit in Greece
Santorini
Santorini is perhaps the most popular and well-known of all the Greek islands. The pretty whitewashed towns of Oia and Fira are suspended from the clifftops, overlooking the turquoise water below. The still-active volcanoes of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni can be visited on a boat trip and the black sand lava beaches are an amazing place to enjoy a stroll. The volcanic soil on the island is exceptionally fertile, creating the perfect conditions for growing grapes. Some of Greece’s finest wine can be found in the numerous exclusive bars and restaurants which decorate the island. Of all the Greek islands, While we try not to play favorites, Santorini takes the top spot overall of the best of the best islands to visit in Greece.
Crete
As the largest and most populous of all the Greek islands, Crete is full of things to see and do. Anyone on a Greece holiday to the island will certainly want to take in some of the island’s fascinating historical sites. The most famous of these is the ancient Minoan capital of Knossos. According to legend, this is where King Minos kept the Minotaur. The ruins of the city can still be visited today. Additionally, a number of ancient Greek artifacts are on display at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Crete is also home to some of the best beaches in the whole of Greece. In particular, the best of these is probably Elafonisi, famous for its pink sand dunes, natural pools, and stunning mountain views. Indeed, one trip to the beach will provide proof positive why this is consistently ranked as one of the best islands to visit in Greece.
Mykonos
The attractions of Mykonos are slightly different from those of some of the other Greek islands. Nonetheless, it is still a great stopover on any Greek island holiday. Mykonos is known as something of a party location. In fact, a great number of visitors descending onto its beaches every summer for weeks of festivals and beach parties. Paradise Beach is the best place to head in search of a few cocktails and a good time. If partying isn’t your thing, there is a quieter side to the island, with plenty of peaceful secluded beaches where you can relax. And for your share of culture, you’d want to head to the nearby tiny island of Delos. This is the mythical birthplace of Apollo and home to a range of interesting ruins. For this reason, if you’re into mythology or partying, Mykonos is one of the best islands to visit in Greece.
Corfu
If you’re heading to Corfu, then the place to start is Corfu City. Two mighty Venetian castles still stand tall and proud, having withstood numerous invasions over the centuries. Not least by the entire weight of the Ottoman Empire. The Old Town is a charming place to explore, with narrow cobbled alleys and beautiful architecture to admire. Other highlights of the island include the scenic walk to the peak of Mount Pantokrator or the Corfu Trail, a 220km route that winds its way from north to south. The trail is a great way to get to grips with the island and can be walked in sections. You can devote as much or as little time as you like to on the island. Expect charming countryside, friendly local people, and vast olive groves. Not surprisingly, Corfu is one of the best islands to visit in Greece.
Zante
Zakynthos, popularly known as Zante, is something of a mid-point between the party island of Mykonos and the more relaxed and cultural settings such as Santorini and Corfu. There are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy if you’re after a wild holiday. Zante is also known for its stunning beaches. In particular Navagio Beach. A cargo ship ran aground here in 1980, and the wreck is still visible at low tide. The azure waters teem with life and the scenery is stunning. Navagio can only be reached by boat and is well worth a visit during any Greek holiday to the area. At the northern tip of the island, the Blue Caves are also a great place to visit and there are a host of interesting museums to explore.
Best Islands to Visit in Greece Scenic Summary
To conclude, whatever sort of holiday you’re after, there’s sure to be a Greek island for you. All in all, the best way to explore Greece is on island-hopping cruise getaways, taking in the different highlights of the main islands all in one go. From blissful beaches to fascinating history and delicious fruity cocktails, there’s something for everyone on a Greek island holiday. Be sure and bookmark our page for more exciting travel destinations. Don’t forget to “Like” Skycap News on Facebook and feel free to send us your travel photos. Who knows, we might invite you to write a guest post about your Greek island holiday. With this in mind, the Skycap News™ team welcomes your personal list of the best islands to visit in Greece!