Do you know there are over 200 inhabited Greek islands? Each of them is so beautiful and similar but at the same time unique and different. They are known for having the best sunsets, beaches, clear water, fun activities, and delicious meals.
These Greek islands are perfect for family vacations, friend trips, and honeymoon destinations. But of course, you must have heard about the popular ones like Santorini and Mykonos. But are they your style for an ideal vacation? Keep on reading to find the 13 most beautiful and best Greek islands that you can choose from.
13 Best Islands In Greece You Must Visit in 2025
1. Paxos
You probably haven’t heard of Paxos cos unlike most Greek islands, it is still not popular with tourists. So this means, you can have a quiet vacation here with everything from the harbor to the beaches to the shops to the restaurants, all without the crowd.
The locals on this Greek island are so welcoming that you’re bound to make one or two friends before you leave. They’ll tell you the best suites to stay, the best harbor towns to get a bit of luxury, the best local restaurants, and the best beaches.
Just imagine spending your day by the clear blue water, sunbathing with a drink in hand and surrounded by beautiful trees. What says vacation more than this? No matter what you say, you’re bound to come back to this beautiful Greek island for your next peaceful family vacation.
2. Crete
Last year your best girl had a fun family vacation on the largest Greek island and now here you are determined to visit Crete this year. But why is Crete this popular? This beautiful Greek island is a do-it-all destination. It ticks all your boxes for a fun family European island vacation.
It has everything you can possibly need to enjoy this vacation. Clean beaches? Check. Buzzing nightlife? Check. Delicious local meals? Check. Hiking trails ranging from easy to hard? Check. Ancients ruins to explore? Check. Cultural and historical sites to visit? Check.
If you even want a relaxed adventure on the sea, then simply go on a boat tour with Sailing South Crete. You’ll be taken to various unknown tourist spots, including the uninhabited Gramvousa island. Crete is much more fun than can be explained and you can experience it for yourself on your next vacation.
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3. Santorini
Nothing you’ve ever seen can prepare you for the beauty of this enchanting island. It is just like stepping into a movie scene with its dramatic sea views, cliffs, and dotted islands. This is one of the most beautiful islands in the world to visit when you’re planning a honeymoon with your lover.
There are so many accommodations to stay in from luxury hotels to villas to budget-friendly resorts. If you’re not on a budget, then plan your stay in Nobu Hotel Santorini. Here, you’ll get total privacy to be lovey-dovey with your partner and the stunning views, pools, and spacious rooms will set the tone.
When you’re tired of staying indoors, just step out onto the beach and spend your day sunbathing, swimming, or diving. You can even book romantic wine tours, volcano tours, boat tours, archaeology tours, and hiking trips. With a visit, you’ll agree that Santorini deserves the title of queen bee amongst the Greek islands.
4. Mykonos
There are so many party videos on the internet done on a Greek island, and you guessed right. Mykonos is the party destination. A visit to this beautiful Greek island is just like a trip to Ibiza with beach clubs by day and superclubs till dawn.
During summer, you can even attend the various free concerts and events including the August festival Xlsior. This is a five-day clubbing festival that attracts lots of gay revelers. But Mykonos is more than just a party spot. This island has 25 beaches that are sure to suit your various needs.
Since there are lots of walls, caves, and shipwrecks on this Greek island, it means you have lots of options to show off your diving prowess. And even if you’re not that good then just swim and relax in the water. But if you’re planning a bridal shower weekend filled with clubbing then this is the best Greek island to visit.
5. Corfu
You already know a lot about Corfu cos this is a very popular Greek island vacation spot. But Corfu makes up for its crowd with its character and entertainment. It has an active nightlife, historical sites, delicious cuisines, friendly locals, and beautiful beaches. Not to lie, Corfu offers variety for everyone.
This Greek island has plenty of beaches and it might not be possible for you to visit everyone no matter how hard you try. Some beaches are large and sandy overcrowded spots while some are tiny deserted coves. But regardless of the spot, you can go swimming, snorkeling, or even hire a small boat for a timeout in the water.
Even if you’re only staying for a week, make time to stroll through the labyrinth alley in the Old Town and explore the Achilleion Palace. And if you’re more into nature, then hike through the Corfu Trail for a rewarding view of nature. Once you’re done, stop at the local restaurants for delicious sofrito, Pastitsadha, or Bourdeto paired with a glass of wine.
6. Folegandros
If you’re planning to explore all or most of the Greek islands during your vacation, then this Greek island is the best place to visit. Folengrandos, though not popular, is still as enchanting and even better, peaceful.
Unlike most Greek islands on this list, this island has a wild style with its ancient pathways, secluded beaches, and age-old traditions. From its port, you can go on daily trips to Mykonos, Santorini, and even Paxos.
You get to really feel the magic of this island while strolling through the streets, watching the romantic sunset, and relaxing at its secluded beaches. You’re complaining you need a quiet and rustic vacation with a boho atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve gotten away from life and all its problems, but you still haven’t planned your visit?
7. Sifnos
When you visit most Greek islands on this list, what draws you in is the clean beaches and clear water, but not Sifnos. Once you step down from the ferry, you’ll be welcomed with the unmistakable smell of calamari and olive oil. That’s why this is the best island to visit if you’re a foodie.
Apart from food, this beautiful Greek island is also known for its beaches, friendly locals, traditional pottery, and traditional way of life. It doesn’t have the crowds and nightlife of other Greek islands, so this is a good romantic and family trip.
This island is everything you really need but you’ll get to experience its game changer in its food. The local Sifnos meals are cooked in local casserole dishes so you’re sure that they taste different. From the staple chickpeas to the nougat wafers to the Greek salad to the bergamot sugar paste, just be ready to put on a bit of weight.
8. Rhodes
If you’ve explored Paxos, Crete, and most Greek islands, you’ll think you can’t be shocked again. Well, Rhodes is here with a shocking surprise. It is one of the largest Greek islands also known for its authentic, chic, cosmopolitan, and historic vibe.
On the one hand, you can visit this popular Greek island for package tours and bachelor parties cos it has an active nightlife and clubbing. But, it is the best Greek island for history with various museums, monuments, and ruins.
If you don’t believe this, then take time during your visit to explore the Old Town, which is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll see how life was during the Gothic Period and you can even explore the Jewish Quarter. Which Greek island mixes history and fun as well as Rhodes?
9. Zakynthos
Unlike most Greek islands where all you see are dotted white houses, this island is filled with lush olive trees and isn’t as busy as the others. This beautiful Greek island is also the third largest, so you’ll have a lot of time to explore.
Forget the Zakynthos you think you know. For the longest time, this island has been known as a party spot for young tourists, but it’s not like that anymore. The locals have worked hard to limit its vibrant nightlife and party spots to the southern beach of Lagana. So head over there for some clubbing and all-night fun.
If that isn’t your vibe, then you shouldn’t be bothered cos there are various fun activities to do by the beach side. And if you don’t want to swim or snorkel, then you can visit the National Marine Park of Zakynthos to see the most endangered species such as the Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtle and monk seal.
10. Ios
This beautiful Greek island attracts tourists with its vivid nightlife making it popular as one of the best Greek islands for partying. Its party life is not only found in its clubs or bars, it’s just the way of life. But if you think the only thing you’ll be doing here is partying, then you’re wrong. It might surprise you but Ios is also a great spot to just sit back and relax.
Ios also has one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in Greece such as Mylopotas and Magnari. Just picture it: lying down on the massive beach, with its golden sand, and clear aquamarine waters. You’ll be the definition of total enjoyment.
Although this Greek island is small compared to the rest on this list, there are still some unique local cuisines you’ll need to try before leaving. Just a taste of Skotyri or Tsimetia will leave you wondering what else have you been missing out on your whole life. This experience can’t really be explained but be sure that this island is a charming vacation spot.
11. Naxos
It’s not easy to say, but after the crowded summers of Santorini, a visit to Naxos is like a breath of fresh air. Since there’s no cruise ship on this island, you’re sure no matter the time of the year, it won’t be crowded with tourists.
So you can enjoy the uncrowded hotels, bars, and restaurants any time of the day. And since it’s in Greece, Naxos is famous for its delicious local cuisines. If you like learning new recipes, you can participate in the traditional cooking class held at Perivoli Farms.
This beautiful Greek island is the best option for your family if you want to stay as long as a week. It’s so beautiful, laid-back, quiet, and filled with lots of fun activities. If you don’t want to go island hopping, then you can go horse riding or take a day out to explore its pretty sleepy villages.
12. Milos
Maybe you’re convinced Milos is the most exotic Greek island because it has been all over your Instagram feed these past few summers. Well, you’re right. This beautiful Greek island ticks all your boxes for a perfect Greek vacation.
Gorgeous beaches? Check. Bluewater? Check. Cute towns? Check. Best for beach hopping? Check. Its natural beauty matches its character and charm, and after your visit, you’re sure to agree. There are various natural sites to explore like the local towns, early Christian catacombs, and beaches.
Known for their dramatic coastline, these clean beaches are some of the best in all of Europe. If you get bored of the water sports, you can go hiking, wander the streets of the island’s traditional villages, visit archaeological sites, or sample local wine in picturesque waterfront bars. With its gorgeous beaches and dramatic coastline, Milos demands comfortable beach gear. Travelers looking to maximize their beach comfort can invest in the best beach blankets that withstand sandy terrains and provide the perfect lounging experience.
13. Kefalonia
This beautiful Greek island is indeed a slice of paradise and is still not as popular as Santorini or Mykonos, so you won’t see any of their crowd. Kefalonia is known for its beaches, cliffs, crystal clear waters, caves, and fresh delicious seafood.
This is the best Greek island to visit if you’re traveling as a big group cos there are so many activities to entice every member. You can participate in various outdoor sports like cave exploring, jeep safaris, coasteering, and sea kayaking.
The fun doesn’t end here cos since this island is located on the western coast, you’ll get a sense of uniqueness and exclusivity from its beaches. And for something even special, you can explore the only national park on a Greek island, Mount Ainos National Park.
Conclusion
The best Greek island to visit depends entirely on your preference. Do you want a quiet vacation or you’re planning to party all through? Are you going on your own or with your family or with your lover? These questions will help you in making your decision.
The honeymooners can visit Santorini for a romantic getaway while the historical buffs can visit Rhodes for a mix of history and fun. No matter which Greek island you choose, you’re bound to have fun. And with the 13 best Greek islands on this list, you’ll be sure to pick your favorite Greek island or even decide to go island hopping. While Greek islands offer incredible experiences, budget-conscious travelers can explore more affordable destinations from our curated list of 16 cheapest islands to visit around the world.
