Greek Islands are one of the most magical tourist destinations in the world with a fascinating mix of sun-kiss beaches, antiquity and Mediterranean warmth. Si you are attracted to the intense night life, tranquil nature or the original Greek culture, each island has its personality that one would not forget. These ten islands will be on the top of your bucket list in case you are planning to travel to Greece.
1. Santorini -The Ultimate paradise of the Sunset
Santorini would not be mentioned in the list of the best Greek Islands. Remarked with dramatic cliffs, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches, Santorini is the absolute magic. The sunset of Oia has been photographed as one of the most photographed sunsets in the world and the black and red sand beaches are another attraction to the island. Stroll along quaint streets, taste local wines in a vineyard on a rocky cliff, and go on a boat trip around the volcano pit to have a most romantic journey ever.
2. Mykonos -The Island That Never Sleeps
Mykonos is the response of Greece to glamour and nightlife. Mykonos is one place that combines luxury beach clubs, designer boutiques and a cosmopolitan mood and city with traditional Cycladic beauty. In the daytime, spend time on the beach such as Psarou or Paradise and in the evening, party at the world-renowned clubs, which overlook the sea. There are also quaint villages, windmills and local tavernas in the island that serve real Greek meals.
3. Crete – The Island of Legends
Crete being the biggest island in Greece provides an unbelievable variety of landscapes and areas, including ancient ruins and mountain villages, as well as clean beaches. Visit the palace of Knossos where the mythical Minotaur used to live or walk through the gorgeous Samaria Gorge. The hospitality of Crete and its nutritious food make it an excellent cultural experience to any tourist. Crete has everything be it history, adventure or peace.
4. Rhodes Where History and Beauty Fall Together
Rhodes is a gem of the medieval architecture and sea scenery. Rhodes old town, a UNESCO world heritage site will take a traveler back to the days of the Knights of St. John. Lindos, the quaint village, with a towering ancient acropolis and with spectacular views of the blue ocean, is a destination worth visiting. The combination of the historical, beach, and traditional culture makes the island perfect to all types of travelers.
5. Corfu The Jewel of the Ionian Sea
Corfu is unique in terms of its green vegetation, Venetian style and calm beaches. Its pavements and pastel-colored buildings are Italian in their influence. The cliffs and the blue waters of Paleokastritsa are ideal in snorkeling and taking photographs. To experience a bit of local life, go to the open-air markets of Corfu Town or have a meal at one of the seaside tavernas. The small island has romantic appeal and a slow tempo that makes it ideal both to the families and couples.
6. Naxos The Secret Cyclade Island
Alas, Naxos is the biggest of the Cycladic islands, which is also one of the purest. It is an amalgamation of the ancient monuments with lovely beaches and village mountains. Individuals should not overlook the Portara, which is a large marble gate, one of the symbols of Naxos. The local cheeses, honey, and Greek hospitality of the island make it a good destination among people who want to have the real experience that is not overcrowded.
7. Paros The Ideal Fusion of History and Fashion
Paros is a relatively newcomer as one of the Greek Islands. It presents a more relaxed Mykonos with its beautiful fishing towns, prestigious boutiques, and crystal clear beaches. Go to Naoussa to see its beautiful harbor and stylish restaurants or go to Lefkes, a quiet village in the mountains with its mazing streets and plants of bougainvillea. Paros is the best in relaxation and sophistication.
8. Zakynteos -Of the Famous Shipwreck Beach
Zakynthos (Zante) is also known to have a gorgeous Navagio Beach whereby a rusted shipwreck is situated on a white sandy beach encompassed by lofty cliffs. Another sightseeing is the Blue Caves which can be approached by boat. Zakynteos should also be recommended as the place with good night life and pleasant villages, where the endangered loggerhead turtles could be observed in the wild. It is a heaven of photographers, adventure hunters and nature enthusiasts.
9. Milos – The Island of Colors
Milos is a volcanic island, which is characterized by the amazing rock shapes and more than 70 beaches of different color and texture. Another world is the lunar-like Sarakiniko Beach, whose bright white rocks and turquoise waters gives the impression of another world. Milos is not as busy as Santorini and Mykonos as it is very quiet and is a good place to enjoy with a couple and explorers. It is a real secret spot, so its beauty and tranquility.
10. Kefalonia -The Island of Natural Wonders
Kefalonia is the place where the nature-loving person can dream of: the mountains are rugged, pine-trees are forested, bays are crystal-clear. Myrtos Beach in the island is usually rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Visit the Melissani Cave that is located underground and the sunlight is penetrated through the water to create a fairy-tale of a glow. The attractive villages of Kefalonia, such as Assos and Fiskardo, are picture-perfect and where seafood can be enjoyed.
Conclusion
Whether you are visiting one of the world-renowned islands such as Santorini and Mykonos or the underdogs such as Naxos and Milos, the Greek Islands are bound to give you a lifetime worth remembering. Every island has its taste of beauty, history, and hospitality that still leaves its mark on the tourists worldwide.
In case you are willing to visit these jewels of the Mediterranean, tour the region with Go Kite Tours, and your partner in memorable Greece vacation tours. You have always envisioned romantic sunsets, secret beaches or cultural marvels, and now, it is time to find your ideal Greek getaway.