Greece is well-known for being a top island destination. For good reason, Greece is made up of 6,000 islands spread out across the Aegean and Ionian seas. While only 227 of them are inhabited, each of those islands possesses its own unique charm and easily persuading travelers to explore their hidden coves, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. But with so many choices, how do you pick the perfect island that aligns with your travel style? Here are a few of the finer points of five of the top Greek Islands to help you narrow down which island may be right for you to visit.
Santorini: The Romantic Gem
As our ferry glides into the caldera of Santorini, we are greeted by the iconic white-washed buildings perched on the cliffs. This volcanic island, famous for its stunning sunsets and romantic ambiance, is a haven for honeymooners and couples seeking a picturesque getaway.
Accommodations
Options range from luxurious cliffside suites overlooking the Aegean to cozy boutique hotels tucked away in charming villages like Oia and Fira. Expect to pay around $150-$300 per night for a mid-range hotel, though prices can soar during peak season.
Activities
Santorini offers a plethora of activities to indulge in. Explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, sip on local wines at the island’s renowned vineyards, wander around to take in all of the white and blue architecture or embark on a sunset cruise around the caldera. Water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are alway popular choices, as well.
Top Guided Tour Activities on Santorini:
- Visit 3 Wineries with Wine Tastings Day Tour
- Walking Food Tour with Tastings Half Day Tour
- Catamaran Cruise with Dinner & Drinks
- Akrotiri Ancient City Guided Tour
Dining
When it comes to dining, Santorini spoils visitors with its fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Sample local specialties like fava, grilled octopus, and tomatokeftedes at seaside tavernas or upscale restaurants. Prices for a meal for two range from $25-$60, depending on the venue.
Crete: The Adventurer’s Playground
The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. From the rugged mountains to pristine beaches and ancient Minoan palaces, Crete offers a diverse range of landscapes and experiences.
Accommodations
Crete accommodations cater to every budget, from budget-friendly guesthouses to all-inclusive resorts. Prices typically range from $50-$200 per night for a mid-range hotel, with variations depending on the location and season, making Crete a great option for a wide variety of traveler.
Activities
Crete is a playground for adventurers, offering hiking trails through the Samaria Gorge, windsurfing or snorkeling along the coast, and exploring the labyrinthine streets of old Venetian towns like Chania and Rethymno. History comes alive at the Palace of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan civilization, and you can easily spend a day exploring and learning.
Top Guided Tour Activities on Crete:
- Samaria Gorge Trek Day Tour
- Chania: 7 Villages of Apokoronas Day Tour
- Heraklion Food Tasting Walking Tour
- Boat Cruise & Snorkeling Tour
- Zeus Cave & Lassithi Plateau Day Tour
Dining
Foodies will delight in Crete’s traditional cuisine, known for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in dishes like dakos (a Cretan bruschetta), lamb kleftiko, and creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey. Dining out won’t break the bank, with meals for two averaging around $20-$40.
Corfu: The Cultural Oasis
Situated in the Ionian Sea, Corfu exudes an old-world charm with its architecture, olive groves, and bright blue bays. This lush island is a haven for those looking to experience Greek culture and nature lovers alike.
Accommodations
Accommodation options on Corfu range from charming guesthouses in traditional villages to upscale beach resorts. Prices vary depending on the location and amenities, with mid-range hotels averaging around $70-$150 per night.
Activities
Corfu offers a wealth of cultural experiences, from exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town with narrow cobblestone streets and medieval fortresses to visiting the Achilleion Palace, once home to Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Nature enthusiasts can hike through the rugged terrain of Mount Pantokrator or unwind on one of the island’s many sandy beaches.
Top Tour Recommendations on Corfu:
- Blue Cave and Shipwreck Boat Cruise
- Corfu History and Culture Walking Tour
- Corfu Town Food Walking Tour
- Full Day Boat Cruise with Swimming Stops
- Angel Castle Guided Hike
Dining
Food is a highlight of any visit to Corfu, with its fusion of Greek, Italian, and Venetian influences. Sample local delicacies like pastitsada (a spicy meat stew), sofrito (veal cooked in wine sauce), and bourdeto (spicy fish stew). Dining prices are reasonable, with meals for two averaging around $20-$50.
Mykonos: The Jet-Setter’s Playground
Mykonos, known as the “island of the winds,” is probably the most well-known Greek Island, thanks to being commonly frequented by the rich and famous. Famous for its vibrant nightlife, picturesque beaches, and charming Cycladic architecture, Mykonos is one of the most popular islands tourists visit. It has many luxury resorts, restaurants and offerings, and can both feel like the busiest island and one fo the most expensive.
Accommodations
Stays on Mykonos range from stylish boutique hotels to lavish beachfront resorts and private villas. Prices tend to be higher here compared to other islands, with mid-range hotels averaging around $150-$300 per night.
Activities
Mykonos is synonymous with partying, boasting a lively club scene that keeps revelers dancing until dawn. Iconic beach clubs like Paradise and Super Paradise draw crowds with their DJ sets and beachfront parties. During the day, visitors can explore the island’s quaint villages, stroll along the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, or relax on one of its beautiful beaches.
Top Guided Tour Recommendations on Mykonos:
- Guided Archeological Tour of Delos
- Sunset Boat Tour with Open Bar & Live DJ
- Winery & Vineyard Tour with Tasting
Dining
When it comes to dining, Mykonos offers a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional Greek tavernas to upscale gourmet restaurants. Make sure to enjoy the fresh seafood, traditional Greek mezes, and international cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Prices for a meal for two range from $40-$100, depending on the venue and menu selection.
Rhodes: The Historic Gem
Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Steeped in myth and legend, Rhodes boasts a rich tapestry of ancient ruins, medieval castles, and pristine beaches, making it a haven for history enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike.
Want More Info on Rhodes? Check out our 6 Day Rhodes Itinerary & 5 Must-See Castles on Rhodes
Accommodations
Accommodation options on Rhodes cater to every budget, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Prices are generally more affordable compared to islands like Mykonos and Santorini that have more tourists during the busy seasons, with mid-range hotels averaging around $50-$150 per night.
Activities
Rhodes is a history lover’s paradise, with highlights including the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the ancient Acropolis of Lindos overlooking the Aegean Sea. Visitors can also explore the picturesque villages of the interior, hike through lush forests or to get a closer look at the castles on Rhodes, or soak up the sun on the island’s beautiful beaches.
Top Guided Tour Recommendations on Rhodes:
- Filerimos Hill & Butterfly Valley Day Trip
- Fishing Boat Trip with Swim Stops
- Rhodes Winery & Tasting Tour
- Lindos Private Sightseeing Tour
- Half Day Sea Kayaking Tour
Dining
When it comes to dining, Rhodes offers a mix of traditional Greek tavernas, international restaurants, and seafood eateries. Sample local specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh fish caught daily from the Mediterranean. Dining prices are reasonable, with meals for two averaging around $20-$60.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Greek Island
In conclusion, the Greek islands offer a diverse range of experiences to suit every traveler’s style and preferences. Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, luxury, history, or natural beauty, there’s an island waiting to welcome you with open arms.
From the romantic ambiance of Santorini to the cosmopolitan allure of Mykonos, the rugged landscapes of Crete, the cultural charm of Corfu, and the historic treasures of Rhodes, each island has its own unique character and attractions.
So pick an island that suits you and embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and adventure. Whichever island you choose, you’re bound to fall in love with the timeless beauty and irresistible charm of Greece.
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