Greece is such a beautiful country and a popular travel destination for so many reasons. There are 227 inhabited islands in total so there is a lot to choose from when you go island hopping! Each Greek island has amazing food, wine, and beaches and with its own unique characteristics. This a guide lists 4 amazing Greek islands to visit with tips on where to stay, where to eat and things to do.
Santorini:
When you see pictures of beautiful white buildings and blue domes from Greece, it is most likely the island of Santorini. This island has become very popular in the last decade because of how picturesque it is! My honest opinion of Santorini is that is it very beautiful of course but the streets get very crowded so try to go off season.
Where to Stay:
The island is quite big with many towns you can stay in. I would recommend staying in Fira which is the main town as this is where the buses go to from other towns. If you want to travel to different towns, you will need to return to Fira and take a bus from there to the next one as it is the main hub.
What to Do:
- Visit the Town of Oia - the most picturesque part of the island
- Explore Pyrgos the oldest town and just as beautiful as Oia but less crowds
- Excursion to the Volcano and Hot Springs – if you have good weather
Where to Eat:
- Meltini – seafood and tapas with a sunset view in Oia
- Argo Restaurant -popular choice on Trip Advisor (Fira)
- Nektar Lounge – lunch/coffee spot with a view (Fira)
Naxos:
One of the understated islands, Naxos is right beside the island of Paros. This island is known for its white sandy beaches, and you’ll find narrow stunning streets here with beautiful shops. The great thing is that it is not as crowded as similar islands!
Where to Stay:
It is best to stay right in the centre as you will also be a short walk from the port for hopping on the ferry to your next destination. This island is a lot smaller than others and you can walk around most places.
What to Do:
- Watch the sunset at Temple of Apollo
- Have a beach day at Plaka Beach
- Wander around the Old Market
Where to Eat:
- Taverna – Traditional Greek food and a local’s favourite
- Ammos – if you want some great seafood
- Doukato – Romantic restaurant
Mykonos:
This island was my favourite of them all! In Mykonos every street you turn down is more beautiful than the next. The vibe around this island is something else and you can see why it is such a popular destination. Be prepared to spend a bit more money on this island as it is an expensive place to visit.
Where to Stay:
Try to stay near the town if you can as you can spend more time exploring the winding streets. The accommodation is more expensive here but it will be worth it as you can also take the bus from Fabrika station to the different beaches on the islands for less than €2.
What to Do:
- 5 Windmills – the most iconic landmark on the island
- Little Venice – stroll along for incredible views by the water
- Visit the Beaches – Paradise beach, Ornos and Platis Glaui are all stunning and you can take the bus from the main town for less than €2.
Where to Eat:
- Sakis – for some of the best Gyros you’ll ever taste
- Oniro Sunset Bar - This is a popular restaurant to eat in and watch the sunset, but it is pricey – we’re talking €25 for a cocktail!
- Any restaurant along Little Venice
Crete:
The largest Greek island to visit and one of the most popular by tourists and it’s easy to see why! I particularly loved Crete as the people were so friendly and a more budget friendly island compared to Santorini and Mykonos.
Where to Stay:
Try to book somewhere you can walk to the old town so that you won’t be spending too much money on taxis. The public transport options are minimal, and it gets very hot in the summer so best to have a short walk to activities.
What to Do:
- Hop on Hop off Tour – great way to get around the city and learn about the history. It costs €15 per person for a full day ticket or €10 for a half day ticket
- Bottomless Boat – fun activity to do especially if you like swimming in the sea! It costs €15 per person
- Walk to the Lighthouse at Sunset – great things to do in the evening
Where to Eat:
- Amphora Restaurant – Tripadvisor recommended and I suggest you try the Moussaka here
- Old Venetian Harbour – the atmosphere is amazing at dinner time here and restaurants stay open until midnight!
Thanks for reading! Wearing my Crann sunnies, Curracloe in all of the photos in this post.
