It’s no secret that Greece is a gorgeous place. One of the many unique aspects of this country is that it has over 200 inhabited islands (6,000 if we’re counting the uninhabited ones as well). Each one is filled to the brim with unique beauty and charm. Spend time exploring the many options at your disposal and then you’ll discover which ones seem to call you back again, year after year.
Crete
For road-trip lovers
Crete is the largest island in Greece. Its massive size creates the feeling of being in another part of the mainland, rather than on an island hours away from Athens. Crete boasts historical monuments, pristine beaches, mountain ranges, forests, and deep gorges (check out Samaria Gorge for a very full day of hiking). There’s no better way to explore all the beauty that the island has to offer than by jumping in the car and hitting the road. The breathtaking scenic routes are worth the time spent sitting in the car.
Astypalaia
For romantics
You’ve probably heard of couples going to Santorini to watch the sunset together. It is certainly a romantic destination, but it’s not the only one. If a romantic escape on a laid-back island without the large crowds is what you’re looking for, then you should head to Astypalaia. It’s small, and because of its shape, it is considered the butterfly of the Aegean Sea. The main town is a dreamy maze of whitewashed streets. There is even an enchanting castle offering breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.
Andros
For hiking enthusiasts
While it’s one of the lesser-known Cycladic islands, Andros is the go-to spot for hiking lovers. All ages and all skill levels can take advantage of the network of paths (some dating all the way back to ancient times) and trails. Historically, these centuries-old pathways used to be how locals would get from one village to another. If you follow them long enough you will end up passing through valleys, rivers, forests, ancient settlements, and stunning beaches. Trust us, it will be a hiking experience like no other. In addition, Andros has gorgeous beaches, many of which have unique rock formations.
Fourni
For foodies
It’s hard to go wrong with Greek cuisine. However, if you are looking for stand-out, once-in-a-lifetime gastronomy then you should definitely add Fourni to your island itinerary. It’s a tiny speck in the Aegean sea, which has remained largely untouched by mass tourism. Restaurants around the island serve hearty dishes made from fabulous fresh and natural ingredients. You’ll have the feeling of having eaten dinner made by a hospitable Greek grandmother who makes sure that you leave feeling very full.
While these are just a few of our favorite islands, there are tons of more options available for you to explore. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ferry tickets today!