10 Gorgeous Greek Islands You Have To Visit This Summer
Greece’s islands are a favourite holiday destination among tourists. Sun, sea, delicious food and stunning views are enough to make you fall in love. Each of these Greek islands has its own unique charm, and with over two hundred to choose from, we’re spoilt for choice. So, if you need a little inspiration, here are ten that you have to visit this summer.
1. Santorini
The jewel in Greece’s crown, Santorini is beautiful as it is popular. Expect gorgeous views and stunning sunsets. This Greek island also has its very own active volcano to bring a thrill to your visit. If you want to beat the tourist crowds, aim to visit in the shoulder season between April and June.
2. Mykonos
Bet you didn’t know that Lindsay Lohan owns a club in Mykonos! Named the Ibiza of Greece, it has a bustling nightlife. Expect to party all night and laze on the beach during the day. Head to the luxurious restaurants or get your history buff on and explore the ancient sites of Greek civilization.
3. Paros
If you fancy yourself a bit of a watersports enthusiast then Paros is the Greek island for you. It has everything from jet skiing to scuba diving. Paros also accommodates those who would prefer to take things slow with beautiful beaches and historical architecture. If you’re looking to party on a budget then make sure you visit Paros this summer.
4. Sifnos
Among the Greek islands, Sifnos is a foodie’s heaven. It’s less touristy than Santorini and Mykonos but it has buzzing Cycladic towns and picturesque villages to explore. This island is best known for its three hundred and sixty-six churches. Visit the Church of the Seven Martyrs to get that Instagram shot.
5. Folegandros
This striking clifftop Greek island offers a refuge for those seeking a quieter holiday. Step back in time and visit Katro, its Medieval quarter. Or, hike to your own private beach and stroll over to the Panagia church to watch the sunset. It’s small but its irresistible charm has made many a holidaymaker fall in love.
6. Corfu
This Greek island is beach bum heaven. Its pristine beaches are perfect for getting a tan on. Take a trip into Corfu town for a taste of cosmopolitan Greece. You can’t visit Corfu without seeing the Old Town. Its architecture, influenced by the Sicilian, Venetian, British, and the French is a marvel to behold.
7. Milos
Milos is a Greek luxury without the crowds. Its white sandy beaches and dramatic landscapes are a dazzling sight and well worthy of your Instagram snaps. Explore the quant rainbow fishing village of Klima and spot cats asleep in colourful doorways. If you have an interest in geology then visit the island’s dormant volcano in Kalamos.
8. Crete
If you love ancient history then Crete is the Greek island for you. It’s home to Knossos, believed to be the oldest city in Europe. Relics of the ancient Minoan civilization have been restored and you can visit them today. Crete’s landscape has a wildness about it. Its mountainous terrain and deep gorges (the Samaria Gorge is the deepest in Europe!) is a hiker’s dream.
9. Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the larger Greek islands. It’s home to the Acropolis of Lindos, the second most important Acropolis in Greece. Be dazzled by the world-famous Valley of Butterflies, hike in the mountains to enjoy views of the island before wandering down to the Tavernas for some exquisite food.
10. Naxos
This Greek island is a Cycladic dream with its authentic villages and narrow streets. Don’t miss the Portara, a standalone doorway and the last relic of an unfinished Temple of Apollo. Its silhouette against the sunset over the Aegean sea is a stunning sight. Naxos is the perfect island to explore colourful villages and make friends with donkeys and humans alike.
