Which Greek Island Should I Visit?
Greece has over 2000 islands… so I understand feeling completely overwhelmed with deciding on which one to spend your precious vacation days on. Hopefully the list below helps you narrow it down!
Before you begin, it's important to note, that every island on this list checks off these requirements:
1. Beautiful landscapes
2. Picturesque towns
3. Amazing food
4. Airport Accessible
5. Safe & friendly for lady travelers
Less Time:
If you want to cross something off your bucket list…
Go to Santorini.
The best way I can describe this island is by saying – It’s touristy, but for a reason. The views, the vernacular, and the sunset, is really one of a kind and it really is as magical as the pictures you have seen. Having said that, for every Instagram photo you’ve seen of a fashion blogger perched on the white-washed wall of a domed church, “candidly” overlooking the endless blue Mediterranean – there are about 100 tourists with selfie sticks cropped out just outside the frame. ;)
My general recommendation for Santorini, is to do it – but make it a short stop on your adventure. See the white washed village clinging onto the Cliffside, drink local wine overlooking its famous sunset, and get a taste of the local produce that is specially grown on its volcanic soils. Then… move on to your next spot!
If you love breathtakingly beautiful swimming holes and are looking for peace…
Go to Milos
Milos is a volcanic island in the Cycladic island group – the group of islands known for their dry climates, and white and blue villages. The island features phenomenal beaches, as well as jaw-dropping rock formations, caves and swimming holes, that you can only reach by boat.
Unlike some of the other islands on this list, you will find this island to be more off-the-beaten-path, with fewer tourists – and finding authentic greek, local experiences is impossible to miss.
More Time:
If you want white sandy beaches, impressive geography, and magical seaside villages…
Go to Kefalonia
A menu of Greek destinations wouldn’t be complete without spotlighting a destination on the west side of the country. Everything else on this list is cradled in the Aegean sea – between Greece and Turkey, but the Ionian sea is definitely not one to be overlooked. Kefalonia is one of these islands that will offer you everything: breathtaking views, crystalline beaches, amazing food, and diverse geography - from mind-blowing caves to dramatic cliffsides. Frequented by tourists and locals alike, you can find both busy life, and peace and quiet. The main capital of Argostoli has plenty of cosmopolitan life if that’s your scene. I recommend staying in the seaside town of Fiskardo – a beautiful fishing village, with gorgeous waters that’s still lively enough to always find something to do… or eat… or drink.
If you want beaches, beaches, beaches, and cosmopolitan flair…
Go to Skiathos
Lush with evergreens year-round dotted with white villages with terracotta rooftops. You could dedicate your entire time there to just riding the local bus to a new beach each day – and enjoy the aquamarine waters.
For a busier, cosmopolitan experience, visit the island of Skiathos. Expect more tourists, but also more restaurants, nightlife, and buzz. For a more peaceful, less-touristy experience, stick to Skopelos and consider a day trip out to the third, even more calm island of the group, Alonnisos.
If you want to hike mountains and gorges, navigate endless miles of beaches, experience a unique culture, and eat your heart out…
Go to Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest island - and is so rich in its own geography, history and culture, that an entire week in Greece can be dedicated to just seeing this island, and you still wouldn’t see it all.
Geographically, you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world in Crete as well as impressive snow-capped mountains, and the deepest canyon in all of Europe. The perfect destination for both relaxing, and adventure.
Culturally and historically, Crete has its own personality, influenced by centuries of occupation by various cultures including Greece, Turkey, and Italy. Some of the earliest ancient civilizations also hailed from Crete – and there are several preserved sights on the island you can visit today.
You’ll find a mix of locals and tourists, the ratio of which will depend on the time of year you go.