Greek islands are famous for their breathtaking beauty, but not all of them are overrun by tourists. If you want an authentic and relaxing experience, away from the crowds that invade the better-known Greek islands, the less-touristy Greek islands are your perfect destination! In this article, we will take you on a discovery of these hidden gems. You will discover why the less touristy Greek islands are an unspoiled paradise, and how they are easily accessible by ferry. Get ready to immerse yourself in the authentic beauty of the most beautiful least tourist Greek islands.
Here is our ranking of the least touristy islands in Greece:
Naxos: the jewel of the Cyclades
Discovering the charms of Naxos is like revealing a well-kept secret of the little-touristy Greek islands. This Cycladic pearl, located in the Aegean Sea, is a true paradise for those seeking an authentic experience away from the tourist crowds. With its enchanting beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Naxos is a must-see destination for those wishing to explore the less touristy Greek islands.
Why choose Naxos
One of Naxos’ strengths is its spectacular beaches. The shores of this island offer a variety of options, from the golden sands of Plaka Beach to the crystal clear waters of Agios Prokopios. If you are looking for a quiet, uncrowded beach, the beaches of Mikri Vigla or Kastraki are perfect for you. The natural beauty of these beaches is truly breathtaking, and you can relax in the sun without the crowds of the more crowded Greek islands. Not surprisingly, Naxos is also one of the islands in Greece ideal for a couple’s vacation.
But Naxos is not just about beaches. This island boasts a history thousands of years old that is reflected in its well-preserved archaeological sites. The ancient Portara, an imposing marble arch dating back to the 6th century B.C., is one of the most iconic sites on Naxos. Walking among the ancient ruins, you can immerse yourself in the history of ancient Greece without being disturbed by crowds of tourists.
What to do in Naxos
Discover all the most interesting activities in Naxos, with our guide revealing the must-see stops in Naxos. Among them, the village of Halki, with its narrow cobblestone streets and craft stores, is a great place to discover authentic Greek island life that is not very touristy. Don’t forget to sample Naxos’ famous kitron liqueur, a local delicacy to be enjoyed in one of the village’s traditional cafes.
Folegandros: the island of authentic beauty
Located among the Cyclades, Folegandros is a true paradise for those seeking a quiet getaway away from the crowds. With its breathtaking landscape, pristine beaches, and authentic culture, Folegandros is one of the least touristy Greek islands you can find. Here, you can really immerse yourself in Greek culture without the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations.
What makes Folegandros unique
One of the most fascinating features of Folegandros is its authenticity. This little-touristy Greek island retains its traditions and authentic atmosphere. You can stroll through the picturesque narrow streets of the village of Chora, with its white houses and slate roofs, and feel part of the daily life of the island. There is no airport on the island, which helps keep Folegandros a quiet and un-touristy place.
But don’t be fooled by its compact size. Folegandros is a hidden treasure of natural beauty. Its beaches, though lesser known, are spectacular. You can relax on Agali beach, with its crystal clear sea and traditional Greek tavernas, or explore Livadaki beach, accessible only by sea, for an even more intimate experience. Turquoise waters and breathtaking cliffs make every corner of Folegandros a natural work of art.
What to do in Folegandros
Folegandros is not just beaches. For those who love adventure, this destination offers unique opportunities. You can hike through wild, unspoiled landscapes, discovering the natural wonders of this un-touristy island. From Karavostasi Point, you can take in spectacular views and perhaps swim in its crystal clear waters. The island also offers a variety of hidden caves and quiet bays to explore, making every day an adventure.
Folegandros is one of the non-tourist Greek islands that has retained its authenticity while also offering a delicious culinary experience. Local taverns serve traditional Greek dishes with fresh and delicious ingredients. Taste island specialties such as mizithra, a fresh cheese, or kaparosalata, a sauce made from local capers. Don’t forget to enjoy fresh fish caught in the surrounding waters.
Amorgos: a hiker’s paradise
Among the less-touristy Greek islands, Amorgos stands out as a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. With its mountainous topography, Amorgos offers a number of scenic trails and unique landscapes that allow you to discover lesser known but extraordinarily beautiful places.
What makes Amorgos unique
One of the most fascinating features of Amorgos is its variety of landscapes. From remote, sandy beaches to rocky coastline and wild mountains, this island offers an extraordinary variety of natural experiences. Birdwatchers will also find their paradise here, thanks to the rich birdlife that includes rare and migratory species.
In addition, the island is dotted with picturesque villages, where you can enjoy the most authentic Greek cuisine and interact with the warm-hearted locals. The paths through these villages are pleasant to walk on, offering you the opportunity to discover the traditional Greek way of life in a peaceful and relaxing environment.
Most beautiful excursions in Amorgos
One of the most famous routes is the one leading to the monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, nestled between cliffs overlooking the crystal clear sea. This walk offers not only spectacular views, but also a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture and history of the island. Other not-to-be-missed excursions include the drive to Agia Anna Bay, with its turquoise waters and striking coastal landscape, and the hike to the top of Mount Krikelos to admire the spectacular view of the island.
Astypalia: the small island of butterflies
Astypalia (also written as Astypalea), the striking butterfly-shaped island, is a true hidden treasure among the less-touristy Greek islands. This gem of the Aegean Sea is famous for its natural beauty and the tranquility it offers visitors seeking an escape from the crowds. Despite having an airport, Astypalia remains a quiet and little-known Greek island, perfect for those who want an authentic and relaxing experience.
What makes Astypalia unique
One of the distinguishing features of Astypalia is its authenticity. Here, you will find an authentic and hospitable local culture, far removed from the commercialization that plagues more touristy islands. The people of Astypalia welcome visitors with open arms, giving them a taste of real life on the little-known Greek islands. You can enjoy delicious Greek cuisine in traditional taverns and discover local art and music during your stay.
What to do in Astypalia
Despite its tranquility, Astypalia offers many opportunities for entertainment. You’ll be able to explore the charming beaches, some of which are still uncrowded, thanks to its status as a non-tourist Greek island. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, snorkel or enjoy water sports such as windsurfing. In addition, the island is a paradise for trekkers and hikers, with numerous scenic trails from which you can admire breathtaking landscapes.
Astypalia is also a great place to learn about Greek history and culture. You can visit Astypalia Castle, a well-preserved fortress overlooking the main town, Chora. This ancient structure offers a panoramic view of the island and surrounding islands, making your vacation even more memorable.
Serifos: a treasure to be discovered
If you are looking for an authentic experience on a non-tourist Greek island, Serifos is the answer. This hidden gem of the Cyclades is one of the best non-tourist Greek islands, a paradise for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. With its uncrowded beaches, traditional villages, and delicious local cuisine, Serifos is a real treat for those looking for the best non-touristy Greek islands.
Most beautiful beaches of Serifos
The beaches of Serifos are something special. Here, you won’t find crowds of tourists or crowded umbrellas. Instead, you can enjoy peace and quiet as you relax on golden sandy beaches lapped by the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. The beaches of Livadi, Livadakia, and Kalo Ampeli are some of the most attractive options, perfect for swimming and sunbathing without the distractions of the more touristy Greek islands.
What to see in Serifos
Serifos offers much more than beaches. The main town, Chora, is a charming maze of stone-paved streets, whitewashed houses and cozy taverns. You can stroll through the picturesque streets, admire the traditional architecture and enjoy authentic Greek dishes in one of the local taverns. Also, don’t forget to visit Serifos Castle, a medieval fortress that offers spectacular panoramic views of the island.
What to eat in Serifos
The cuisine of Serifos is another reason why this island is a hidden treasure of the Cyclades. Here you can enjoy traditional Greek dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the famous “revithada”, a chickpea soup slowly cooked in a wood-fired oven, or the delicious fresh fish caught in the surrounding waters. Also, Serifos is known for its wine, so be sure to enjoy a good glass of the local nectar.
Karpathos: an island without time
Karpathos is one of the lesser-known treasures of the Greek islands, and that is what makes the experience here so special. You won’t find the long lines of resorts and crowded streets as you would on some of the more touristy islands. Instead, you will be greeted by the warm hospitality of the locals and can fully immerse yourself in the authentic culture of the Greek islands. Traditions are proudly preserved here, and you can attend local festivals and experience traditional cuisine at one of the picturesque restaurants along the coast.
What makes Karpathos unique
What really sets Karpathos apart are its breathtaking beaches, some of the most beautiful among the less touristy Greek islands. From the crystal clear waters of Apella Beach to the tranquility of Kyra Panagia, there are beaches for all tastes. If you love adventure, don’t miss the remote and unspoiled beaches reachable only by sea or via scenic trails.
The history of Karpathos is just as fascinating as its beaches. Once part of the Roman and Byzantine Empires, the island has a rich and complex history that is reflected in its charming villages. Olympos, for example, seems to have stepped back in time with its colorful traditional houses and windmills. As you wander through the narrow alleys, you might encounter local people dressed in traditional local costumes.
Discover the less touristy Greek islands with Ferryscanner!
With beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique culture, each of the destinations we have mentioned in this article is ready to offer you an unforgettable experience away from the crowds. So if you are looking for a quiet, little-visited island getaway, these destinations are perfect for you.
Don’t waste any more time. Book your ferry tickets now using Ferryscanner and start your journey to these hidden gems! If, on the other hand, you still don’t know which Greek island is right for you, we recommend reading the guide on our blog for inspiration.