Greece is a fantastic place, always has been, and always will be. Greece is a phenomenon of iconic cities, incredible architecture, delicious food, and more Islands than you can imagine. Athens & Thessaloniki put you right on the doorstep of many lovely Greek Islands. You will need to figure out where to begin. Luckily, we've got some tips for you. Uncover the most iconic Greek Islands you can visit during 2023 and learn about their secrets for your most incredible holiday!

SANTORINI

Best for Honeymooners and first-timers!

Santorini, known since ancient times as Thira, is one of the most well-known islands in the world. You can sit in front of the Caldera and relish local dishes, a drink, or coffee while gaping at the incredible beauty of an active volcano is incalculable! Santorini's Volcano is one of the few active volcanoes on Greek and European land.  

The Island consists of Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea, and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of the Cyclades. Fira is the Island's picturesque capital, roosted on the top edge of the Caldera. Along the border of the Caldera, you'll come across the outstanding villages of Oia - the whole Town looks like a work of art as the houses are engraved into the lava rock - Imerovigli and Firostefani, which are the best sites for you to get your sunset views.

While in Santorini, you can watch the sunset, enjoy a catamaran cruise around the Island, and have a therapeutic walk at Oia, Pyrgos, and Fira during your stay. Visit the Volcano and enjoy swimming in the hot Springs. Swim on the Black Beach. Experience unique shades on the Red Beach. Go wine-tasting at Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery, visit the Lovely Prophet Elias Monastery, and taste the exceptional local cuisine.

The fancied time to visit is late March to early June and from early September to late October.

MILOS

Best Greek Island for a romantic and picturesque coastline!

The Island has a handful of the most incredible natural landscapes that are contributed by volcanic activity, mysterious rock formations, curious soil colors, and countless jaw-dropping beaches. Besides, it is also the homeland of the renowned marble statue of Venus of Milo, prominently displayed at the Louvre Museum.

Only recently, only a few had heard of Milos, the volcanic Island where Aphrodite's graceful likeness was discovered. Milo's volcanic past is reflected in many hot springs, caves, and geological formations found around the Island, with numerous significant archaeological sites waiting to be discovered.

While in Milos, you can visit Klima & more fishing villages. Explore the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko and take a tour of Kleftiko & the Sea caves. Swim at the best beaches and enjoy sports activities. Stroll around Plaka village, view the best sunset from Kastro and have a romantic seafood dinner. Visit the Ancient Theatre, the Catacombs, and more sights and shop for therapy & souvenirs.

The best time to visit Milos is late spring or early autumn.

ZAKYNTHOS/ ZANTE

The best Greek Island for coastal vacations with teens!

Housing the world-famous Navagio (Shipwreck) beach and the threatened sea turtle species Caretta Caretta, Zakynthos (or Zante) is among Greece'sGreece's most famous and attractive islands. The exotic Island boasts breathtaking nature, beaches, and villages and is located in the Ionian Sea.

While in Zakynthos, you can Cruise around the Island by Delfini or visit a traditional organic farm. Enjoy one of the largest water parks in Greece with your family. Discover the color of love at the Blue Caves. Get active, from hiking to horseback riding. And find beaches that'll amaze you.

The best time to visit Zante is between June and September. 

CORFU

Best of the Greek Islands for essence and dense landscapes!

Its rich multicultural heritage, historical memorials, spectacular natural landscape, crystal clear seas, and ideal weather all year round explain why Corfu is one of the most worldly-wise Mediterranean destinations incorporating a powerful spell on its visitors. With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves, and elegant manor houses, the rest of the Island recalls Tuscany - but with some of the best beaches in Europe.

Unlike the rest of Greece, Corfu (Kerkyra in Greek) never fell underneath Ottoman oppression. Due to the subsequent dominations of the Venetians, the French, and the British over the centuries, the Island has mainly become part of the Western rather than the Levantine world. Their culture exerted a strong power in the city: it was here that the first Greek University (the Ionian Academy), the first Philharmonic Orchestra, and the First School of Fine Arts were founded.

While in Corfu, you will fall in love with sandy beaches and blue-green seas, have the chance to get active with water sports and paragliding, explore the atmospheric Old Town, and discover its history, culture, and its delicious culinary heritage.

The preferable time to visit is April to May and September to November.

NAXOS

Best for Infinite sandy beaches!

Naxos is a photographer'sphotographer's heaven. You can take your pick from seaside fishing settlements to mountainous traditional and agricultural towns. With a great selection of beaches, each different in looks and style, everyone can have their favorite beach. Whether it is a sandy or rocky beach you are looking for, a quiet or a busy one, with or without sports and amenities, a long beach, or a small cove, Naxos has it all.

While in Naxos, you can hike or do some mountain biking. You can join a group of people and get on the sailing yacht to dive in the Aegean Sea of Naxos or the Small Cyclades or book the whole boat for yourself. Also, you will have the chance to wind-surfing and kite-surfing. And certainly taste its authentic Mediterranean cuisine, based on its fatty produce of wine, aromatic herbs, vegetables, fish, meat, and dairy products coming straight from the Naxian land and sea.  

The adequate time to visit Naxos is in April-October if you are looking for warm weather.

CEPHALONIA/ KEFALONIA

Best Greek Island for relaxed family holidays!

Kefalonia's culinary tradition, history, traditional villages, upbeat nightlife, and pristine beaches will make you fall in love with the Island. This green Island will take your breath away. Kefalonia is a gem in the Ionian Sea. The blend of its mountains with the blue of the water makes it truly unique and a particular destination. Pine, cypress, and olive trees cover Mt. 'Ainos' peak, while at its foot, you'll come across vineyards where the prevalent Kefalonian Robola wine variety is produced.

While in Kefalonia, explore its picturesque Villages and its gorgeous beaches. Visit the wonderful village of Fiskardo. You can catch the sea turtles in Argostoli and take a boat to Ithaca or Zante. Explore the Argostoli Archaeology Museum, the Melissani Cave, the Castle of Agios Georgios, the Drogarati Cave, and the Agios Gerasimos Monastery. Additionally, you can walk the De Bosset Bridge in Kefalonia. This vast stone bridge crosses the sea and links up the Town of Argostoli with the rest of mainland Kefalonia.

The best time to visit Kefalonia is between June and August.

MYKONOS

Best of the Greek Islands for Heavy parties and five-star hotels!

Mykonos is known as the Island of the winds, located in the heart of the Cyclades group. Its fame has spread worldwide as a cosmopolitan and luxurious holiday destination. What makes this Island special is that it can cover a variety of demands: you can visit it for its archaeological sites; get to know the local traditions in its picture-perfect villages; and you can explore its amazing beaches, considered by many as the top ones in the Aegean Sea.

While in Mykonos, stroll around the cobblestone alleyways of the central Town- Hora. Enjoy a party, beach club, family fun, or outdoor activities. Taste the most delicious Mediterranean and international cuisine. Likewise, you can experience a day cruise to the Delos and Rinia islands, which will be one of the cultural highlights of your stay. Be sure to discover the Island's dairies and farms. You'll find a scene of authenticity entirely in tune with nature.

Late spring and early fall is the best time to visit Mykonos.

SKIATHOS

Best Greek Island for dropping onto a sandy beach with a lovely book!

Skiathos, the most cosmopolitan Island in the Northern Sporades, is truly a heaven on earth, with lush pine forests and crystal-clear azure waters. The Island is panoramic, unspoiled, and blessed with more than 60 gorgeous crystal-clear waters and beaches. The most famous is Koukounaries, which is considered the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. When you add in its bustling nightlife, it is only naturalistic that the Island draws thousands of young visitors yearly!

While in Skiathos, hike to the Evangelistria Monastery, which is set on a hill in a picturesque setting surrounded by a pine forest. You can even visit the Agios Nikolaos Church, clock tower, and Papadiamantis House Museum. Witness the site of Mama Mia's film. Take a Boat to Lalaria beach. Head to Koukounaries Beach, a stunning long stretch of sand filled with watersports, beach bars, and rows of beach chairs with sun umbrellas.

The best time to visit Skiathos is between June and September.

CRETE

Best for History lovers, dynamic adventures, and sunlight all year round!

Crete, with its rugged mountains, endless beaches, turquoise seas, cities, towns, villages, stunning countryside, and countless hidden treasures, will not disappoint you regardless of whether your visit is for relaxation or to explore. 

Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Ierapetra, Malia, Hersonissos, Sitia, Sfakia… wherever you visit, it is an island of thousands of vibrant images, loaded with an open-hearted and festive spirit, rich history, world-famous cuisine, and hospitable people.

While in Crete, don't hesitate to visit the famous historical Palace of Knossos, wander among Roman ruins at Gortyna, and marvel at the marble at Ierapetra Archaeological Museum. For walk lovers, follow trails through history at the former quarantine island of Spinalonga, or hike in the stunning Samaria Gorge. And if you need some water sports activity, you can go windsurfing at Kouremenos Beach. There'sThere's always something for every mood. 

The best time to visit Crete is from mid-May to June or from September to October.

SKOPELOS

Best Geek Island for walk lovers!

Eye-catching geographies; crystal clear waters next to golden coasts; conventional Pelion architecture; wild natural landscapes, and a pure island environment are what Skopelos adds up to. As a pine forest primarily covers the Island's land, the color green will cast a spell over you. It is part of the Sporades island group and has three ports: Skopelos, Agnontas, and Glossa. The Island enjoyed international credit when Hollywood producers decided to shoot the famous movie "Mamma Mia!", setting it as a holiday destination for travelers worldwide. You can reach the Island of Skopelos by ferry from Thessaloniki.

While in Skopelos, explore Skopelos Town, check out Agios Ioannis Church, and enjoy its beautiful beaches. One of the most famous beaches on Skopelos Island is Kastani Beach, which is renowned for its use as a filming location in the film Mamma Mia. Hike to the Gourouni Lighthouse. There are magnificent views of the Aegean, which is particularly beautiful at sunset. Also, you can visit the gorgeous Town of Glossa. And if you want to discover the Island better, embark on a Mamma Mia boat tour. Skopelos Island is well-known for its traditional pies- taste them.

The best time to visit Skopelos is between June and September. 

SKYROS

Best Greek Island for private holidays!

Skyros is a quiet island, the largest of the Sporades complex, and is close to Evia island. It is trimmed by lush green hills and isolated beaches, which makes Skyros a tourism model for visitors looking for private holidays. The Island has many facilities that appeal to most tourists, endless beaches with clean waters, and pretty settlements with typical traditional Greek houses and interesting folklore art. Castles, panoramic churches, and antique sites are scattered around Skyros. Tourism in Skyros is ideal for families with kids and romantic couples; in other words, "a getaway from almost everyone."

While in Skyros, you can hike up Mount Olympus. Spend the afternoon wandering around the Monastery of Saint George, or head to the Byzantine Castle of Skyros. Likewise, you can experience a deep-sea dive or go horse riding at Appaloosa. And if you love museums, head to the Folklore Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Skyros, or you can relish a lazy day at Kalogria Beach.

The time to visit Skyros is from April to November.

SERIFOS

Best Geek Island for a laid-back break!

Serifos is an island with wild mining sites, magnificent history, and a unique style. Once there, you will be engraved by the serenity of the landscape and its beauty. The land is made of iron and granite, making Serifos the rockiest Island in the Cyclades. It may be a dry place, but it puffs some of the most lovely beaches on the Aegean Sea islands. You can easily travel to Serifos by ferry from Athens (Piraeus port).

While in Serifos, you will find a variety of beaches. Rocky and pebbly or crystal-clear deep blue waters wash gold-colored sands. There are also plenty of outdoor activities for you to try; hiking (along sign-posted paths), climbing, mountain biking, and scuba-diving. You can learn about local wine production and sample the best Greek white and rose wines. Also, you can enjoy the mining trail. It is a great way to combine outdoor activity with history, and the trail passes disused mining machinery, railway tracks, and mine shafts.

The best time of year to visit Serifos are in May, June, September, and October.

DOUNOUSSA

Best Geek Island for devotees of beauty and peace!

Donoussa is a tiny island in the Cyclades, famous for its endless beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Tourism in Donoussa is ideal for alternative visitors who wish to combine beauty and peace. It is close to the Island of Naxos, where many visitors arrive. Donousa's land has plenty of coves to relax on magnificent sandy beaches. If you want to get away from it all and enjoy peaceful holidays, Donoussa is the ideal choice for you! The Island is one of the least-known islands, suitable for campers settling on secluded beaches. 

While in Donoussa, explore by boat majestic caves like "Spilia Tichou." Enjoy the sunset from the Timios Stavros church, the Island's patron saint, and Panagia and Agios Ioannis churches. A trail trip will allow you to explore virtually all the beaches on foot and take fantastic bird's eye view snapshots! Your beach journey can begin from the Island's port, where blonde sandy beaches await you. More charming sandy beaches, with their dainty seabeds, can be found in the south, such as Kedros, Vathi Limenari, Livadi, and Fykio. In the northern part of Donousa, don't miss the three pebble-stone beaches of Kalotaritissa with turquoise waters.

Any time between May-September is a perfect moment to visit Donousa. 

RHODES

Best for journeying back in time!

Rhodes has a long and unique history; it's a place where the solid medieval aspect combines with the traditional Greek. It is also an island with incredible natural attractiveness. The lovely beaches face the pine woods on the mountainsides; the mountain towns overlook the seaside cities; and the archaeological sites, the medieval memorials, and the cosmopolitan resorts arranged in the classic style all devised to make the vogue of this destination so hard to resist, even to a selective traveler.

While in Rhodes, enjoy a tour of the medieval Old Town. Head to the Valley of the Butterflies and Rodini Park. Taste the captivating honey and other delicacies. Lead to some of the best beaches in Rhodes on a boat trip. You will also find numerous wineries offering wine-tasting experiences. A visit to Rhodes is only complete with getting to Lindos, heading into the archaeological site, and up to the hilltop acropolis dedicated to Athina Lindias. It's an undoubted must-see of Rhodes not just because of its history but because of the panorama. Wow! Ahead of you is the Aegean Sea, and behind you is Lindos village (with its labyrinth of shops, bars, and tavernas).

The best time to visit Rhodes would be between April and October.