How to Pick the Best Greek Island for You—and Where to Stay When You Get There
Narrowing down the best Greek island to visit for your next Mediterranean getaway can be tricky. Greece has 227 inhabited islands scattered across the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Ionian seas, so knowing where to start can prove difficult. Not only are there so many Greek islands to choose from, but each is different from the next. Some are small and under-the-radar, others are large and vary from town to town and coastline to coastline, offering something different—be it food, culture, or history—no matter how many times you return.
Age-old favorites like Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete still have pull. Others, like Folegandros and Sifnos, are long-time favorites with Greeks that are slowly but surely coming onto the radar of the international jet set, while islands like Leros and Kastellorizo remain (mostly) undiscovered, drawing only an if-you-know-you-know crowd.
Alongside the sun, sea, and sand, it’s this variety that makes the Greek islands so appealing to all kinds of vacationers. Whether you’re after lazy days soaking in the sun, action-packed weeks hiking the mountains, hot spot table reservations, time exploring traditional villages (and their tavernas), or an opportunity to escape it all, there’s a Greek island to suit you.
Our top picks:
- Best Greek island for direct flights from Athens: Syros
- Best Greek island for couples: Santorini
- Best Greek island for families: Crete
Paros
Best for: Welcoming locals and long beaches
Though it’s commonly touted as “the next Mykonos,” Paros still has plenty of authentic Greek-island charm. For years, this was an island frequented mainly by Greeks, and its newfound global popularity hasn’t changed the game too much here yet.
But things are changing, especially in popular Naousa, where it seems there’s a never-ending influx of new hot spots to peruse as you wind your way through its quintessential maze of whitewashed streets, each abuzz with boutique stores by day and lively drinking and dining spots by night. Forever favorites still stand strong, though, and I’ll always pay a visit to the 1963-established Kafeneion i Palia Agora for the low-key vibe paired with home-cooked meat and zucchini balls, and to harborside Barbarossa for all manner of seafood sizzled to perfection and paired with a party in the port (book well in advance). There’s also a coveted hotel scene here, with plenty of high-end boutique hotels opening up around the island’s coastline. Though its numbers can’t compare to those of neighboring Mykonos and Santorini, its charm does.
When you get bored of the new, experience the old in the small fishing villages on the south of the island, like Aliki and Drios, where days lazing by the sea segue into long evening dinners, which will definitely feature the catch of the day, and probably a glass or two of the local brandy. Ask to try some souma.
Why we love it: “Paros is at that perfect stage: lively and with enough good bars, restaurants, and shops that it's impossible to get bored, but not as overwhelming as some of its neighbors (looking at you, Mykonos).” —Katie Silcox
Where to stay on Paros:
- For a beachside location: Avant Mar or Cosme
- For adults-only: Mythic
- For a private stay: Sunset villa for two
- For groups: Moonhouse (sleeps 12)
For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Paros.
Sifnos
Best for: A sizzling food scene and romantic hotels
Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy Bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.)
In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3, where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina, an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.
Why we love it: “For an authentic and relaxing Greek island experience, my top tip is to choose one without an airport—you’ll experience fewer crowds in an unspoiled setting. Sifnos is easily reachable from Athens, Mykonos, or Santorini by ferry, and so worth the extra boat ride for its rugged and carefree charms.” —Sarah Allard
Where to stay in Sifnos:
- For romance: NÓS
- For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
- For a laid-back escape: Sifnos House
- For something unique: This windmill Airbnb
- For privacy: Sigma Residences
Syros
Best for: Culture and off-season cachet
Syros cares less about tourism than other islands, meaning it’s able to offer visitors a more real glimpse into Greek island life. It’s got scale too. The buildings feature a mix of Cycladic, Venetian, and Neoclassical architecture, and are bigger than those of its neighbors. Standing tall and proud along Ermoupoli’s coastline, there’s the 19th-century Apollon Theater, designed as a replica of Milan’s La Scala; the imposing blue-domed, orange-fronted church of Agios Nikolaos; and the impressive City Hall of Hermoupolis, built under the supervision of Ernst Ziller and with a 49-foot-high entrance staircase to rival that of any European capital. Towering behind them all is Ano Syros, almost 900 steps above Ermoupoli—reward yourself with dinner at Hygge, with views back to the main town. If you don’t fancy the hike, a taxi can drop you off at the door.
The cultural scene is notable here too. Syros is home to art, music, film, and dance festivals that go on throughout the year. Highlights for 2026 include the Syros Heritage Festival in May, the International Festival of the Aegean (opera, theater, dance) in July, the International Rebetiko Festival in August, plus music and jazz festivals in September.
The beaches here don’t live up to those of its Cycladic neighbors, which is perhaps a blessing in that the island has stayed off the mass-tourism radar, but Galissas, Delfini, and Agathopes are worth visiting—and locals love Vaporia’s concrete slab, overhanging the sea and overlooking some of Greece’s finest Neoclassical mansions.
Why we love it: “While I often flit between many Greek islands when trying to pin down a favorite, I always seem to land back in Syros. I think it’s something to do with its authenticity, coupled with its clashing-but-cohabiting mix of cultures.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Syros:
- For glamour: Hotel Ploes
- For romance: Aristide Hotel
- For groups: Fanya (sleeps 10)
- For families: Villa Evangelini
- For old-school charm: Argini
Folegandros
Best for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz
Despite living in Greece for many years, it took me a while to visit Folegandros. The second I stepped onto the island, I was entirely unsure why I’d hesitated. So my best bit of advice for this rocky island? Just go. Barren it may be, but that’s more than made up for by the warmth of its people (a cliché, I know, but in this case also very true). There’s a word for this in Greek: “philoxenia,” which roughly translates to “friendliness to strangers.” In my case, it started as I sat down for coffee on arrival and was promptly directed to the best place for dinner (To Spitiko for homemade dishes), told where to shop for gifts and trinkets (Flomos), and given exact directions on how to get to a beach for an afternoon of lounging.
Most Greek-island capitals have one main square; Folegandros has three, each with both traditional and trendy cafés, stores, and bars to peruse, but be warned, even in peak summer months, many of the restaurants and bars only open come evening. Lunchtime dining is a more café-casual affair at the likes of Kyklos, Kanela, and Prickly Pear, with a full vegan menu. While here, wander the back streets of Kastro, a 13th-century settlement and one of the most charming neighborhoods any Greek island can boast. Here starts the island’s most well-known adventure: hiking the approximately 350 zig-zagged stairs up to Panagia church. If you don’t want to walk it, the best sea-level view of it is found in the backyard terrace at Zefiros Anemos restaurant.
Back to the beaches: don’t come expecting the white sands of other islands, instead the beaches of Folegandros are—like the island itself—a little more rocky and a whole lot more craggy, but equally charming. Agkali beach is a good spot to spend an afternoon—just beware of the occasional wild wave, plus learn from my mistakes and bring everything you need, including plenty of SPF and a sun umbrella.
Why we love it: “With no airport or cruise terminal plugging it into the tourism circuit, this is the donkey-straddling Greece of old: rugged, unspoiled landscapes, and quiet villages that nurture their age-old traditions.” —Noo Saro-Wiwa
Where to stay on Folegandros:
- For luxury: Gundari
- For views: Anemomilos
- For families: Anemi
- For beach access: Blue Sand Hotel
- For a private stay: Maistros
Kefalonia
Best for: Laid-back family vacations
There’s something about Kefalonia, an island that doesn’t really set out to impress yet somehow seeps into the soul of those who visit. Everything here is just as it is—but it just so happens that its de facto setting is one of unadulterated beauty. Long, winding roads skirt coastal bays on one side with dense mountain forests on the other, sometimes ending up at an underground lake, but more often than not snaking towards pretty seaside fishing villages where taverna tables are planted next to the sand, and home-cooked dishes are served with aplomb.
It’s no wonder this quaint-but-majestic island was both the inspiration for Louis de Bernières’s novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and the filming location for its subsequent 2001 Hollywood movie starring Penélope Cruz. Myrtos beach, with sandy-white shores, an impossibly blue sea, and surrounded by towering marble cliffs, is undoubtedly the star of the show, but far from the only place to soak up the sun. Inland, hike through Mount Ainos National Park before stopping at Orealios Gaea vineyards to sample the island’s most famous wine, Robola. Next stop on any culinary tour should be what became one of my most memorable Kefalonia experiences—an introduction to beekeeping at the home of Thanassis and Eleni, who run tours from their garden’s apiary.
Dinnertime is probably best spent at Tassia Restaurant on Fiskardo’s harbor, where everyone from John Galliano to Samuel L. Jackson and Demi Moore has dined, with Kylie Jenner one of their most recent celebrity customers in July 2025. Other standout restaurants include Afral in Sami and I Kalyva tou Psara in Skala. Whatever you do, avoid the plate-smashing, Greek-dancing restaurants dotted around Lassi.
Why we love it: "This island has a rustic, less manicured feel to it—villages are packed with pastel-hued buildings, the rugged hinterlands are primed for hiking, and the craggy slopes of Mount Ainos are the ultimate place for soaking up epic views across the Ionians." —Olivia Morelli
Where to stay on Kefalonia:
- For families: Emelisse Nature Resort
- For an adult-only retreat: F Zeen
- For sea views: Eliamos Villas
- For a private stay: Wilderness Whisperings House
- For something special: Sky-high villa
Kastellorizo
Best for: Castaway dreams and swimming through caves
Kastellorizo has only around 500 full-time residents—this number can triple during the summer season—and a slew of well-known names have made it their Greek island go-to over the years. While not a celeb-heavy spot like Mykonos, this small island (less than five square miles) punches above its size when it comes to visitors, particularly with the creative crowd. Notably, in 2022, Silvia Fiorucci’s Società delle Api commissioned four designers to renovate a room each in a historic house, curated by Annalisa Rosso and resulting in the artists’ residence 4Rooms.
There’s not a whole lot to do in Kastellorizo, but that’s entirely the point: days might be spent dipping in and out of the water, setting sail for nearby underwater caves, or exploring the Ottoman influences spotted across the island’s architecture, including the landmark minaret of an 18th-century-built mosque. This is about as far east as you can go within Europe; the Turkish coastline sits just one mile away and is easy to visit for the day. By night, all roads point to the homemade salantourmasi (stuffed onions) at Ta Platania, followed by a nightcap at Faros.
Why we love it: “This tiny island is spoken about in whispers. To put it very frankly: those who summer here don’t want others to know about it.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Kastellorizo:
- For a boutique stay: Casa Mediterraneo
- For romance: Mediterraneo
- For groups: The Admiral’s House
Kos
Best for: Tradition with a twist
Kos comes with a multitude of stereotypes, having taken center stage as the getaway of choice for the 18–30 holiday crowd for many years. But things are changing on this somewhat underrated Dodecanese island. A new breed of design-focused, quiet-luxury boutique hotels is emerging—just look to Lango Design Hotel & Spa or Sagredo Boutique Hotel & Spa, both of which opened in 2024.
Located just two-and-a-half miles from the Turkish coastline, set sail from the main port and within a matter of minutes you’ll have escaped the party boats, views instead replaced with Turkey’s mountains on one side, the small Greek island on the other. Back on dry land, archaeological sites abound. Steps from the port are the Altar of Dionysus, the Roman Odeon, Casa Romana, and the Tree of Hippocrates, under which Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician who was born on the island, is said to have taught his students. Slightly inland, there’s the 4th-century BC Asclepieion of Kos, where he established his medical school.
See the sights by bike—the (mostly) flat topography of Kos means it has been a cycling island for centuries. If you’re all historied out, pedal towards the flamingo-filled waters of Tigaki's salt lake (autumn and spring are the best times to spot the graceful birds), the wetlands at Psalidi, or to traditional villages for a taverna dinner.
All of this, and I haven’t even mentioned the plentiful beaches, many of which get somewhat crowded during peak season. Black-sand Therma Beach with hot springs (the clue’s in the name) is the spot to visit for natural healing, but for the most peaceful experience, opt for a hotel with private beach access. Adult-only Oku Kos became my (elevated) version of a fly-and-flop for a recent stay, with days spent doing nothing more than dangling off a lounger, feet in the water, good book in hand.
Why we love it: “Long considered the island of choice for the 18–30 holiday crowd, a new breed of design-focused boutique hotels is emerging on this underrated Dodecanese island.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Kos:
- For adults-only: Oku Kos
- For families: E-GEO Easy Living Resort
- For wellness: Sagredo Boutique Hotel & Spa
Leros
Best for: Distinctive architecture and good vibes
Long overlooked because of its checkered history—this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912–1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum—Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbor of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colorful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs.
Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason: Mylos by the Sea, arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on Harris Bar, another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous, and there are just enough low-key beach bars like Zephyros and Lime. Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti Bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favorites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.
Why we love it: “Only 90-minutes by ferry from neighboring Kos, unhurried Leros feels like a well-kept secret among in-the-know Greeks and an international yacht crowd.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Leros:
- For glamour: Villa Clara
- For a historic stay: Archontiko Angelou
- For a local feel: Endless Blue Home
Santorini
Best for: Honeymooners
You might think Santorini is overhyped, but you’d only be partially right. Yes, it’s busy in places at certain times; yes, there’s an exponential price hike compared to some of its Cycladic neighbors; and no, the beaches are not the prettiest you’ll find in Greece. But that view, oh that view…all the Caldera clichés are true. Iconic, romantic, historic—this is, quite simply, one of the best views in the world, and it will take your breath away. I would make a strong argument that you need to see it at least once in your life, but I’m willing to bet you’ll come back for more. Some of the best hotels-with-a-view cling onto the cliffside in Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira—the first two are nicer places to stay, although do take the time to visit the Caldera-view La Colline restaurant in Fira, where I had one of my most memorable meals on the island (the other was at Varoulko).
Some might say that you’re best spending all your time between the villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira, but it’s worth exploring elsewhere too. Of note: Megalochori. Hugging the island’s southwest coast, the pace softens here, and days are spent meandering through (less-crowded) whitewashed lanes, taking in traditional sights and architecture, like the Church of Agios Nikolaos, the town’s central bell tower, and the fascinating Symposium Cultural Centre. The east (non-Caldera) coast is your best bet for beaches; they’re mainly of the black-sand variety due to the island’s volcanic topography—an eruption more than 3,500 years ago is the reason for Santorini’s unique terrain. Learn more about the island’s history at Akrotiri, a well-preserved Bronze Age settlement in the south.
Why we love it: “Sure, the town of Oia on Santorini can get very crowded, but for good reason—it truly is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I visited in May and was able to navigate the cobblestone streets easily and soak in those breathtaking Caldera views." —Lauren Burvill
Where to stay on Santorini:
- For luxury: Perivolas
- For adults-only: Neema Maison
- For families: Andronis Boutique Hotel
- For art and design: Noūs Santorini
- For lazy beach days: Istoria
For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Santorini and the best Airbnbs in Santorini.
Mykonos
Best for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels
What can anyone say about Mykonos that hasn’t already been made famous on social media? Plenty, actually, and you might be surprised. Yes, Mykonos Town is the spot for drinking, dining, and dancing ‘til the small hours alongside the rich and famous, but there’s much more to this island. On the quieter north coast, feet-in-the-sand tavernas dot hushed beach coves. Merchia, Fokos, and Agios Sostis are some of the most secluded—don’t miss the off-grid Kiki’s taverna at Agios Sostis—while in the east, 2025 saw Cali Mykonos hotel partner with Missoni for a beach-club takeover that’s set to return for summer 2026, and is open to non-hotel guests too.
In the south, beach clubs abound, including the now Instagram-famous Scorpios (I can vouch that lunch here lives up to the hype, and that it’s worth sticking around for their sunset sessions too) and more laid-back Kalua, which still gets pretty rowdy by mid-afternoon, but feels more boho-chic than boisterous. Platis Gialos beach is home to beach bars, tavernas, and watersport facilities without (as many) crowds, while Psarou beach, one of my favorites, is the best of both (a bit of buzz, a bit of downtime, and a lot of glam). Foodies should visit Ornos Bay—this small fishing village has had a bit of a makeover and is now home to some of the island’s best restaurants, Buddha Bar and Beefbar included. Back in Mykonos Town, the night begins around 11 p.m., and there’s really no end to restaurants and bars to visit. But my advice: don’t miss Katrin, one of the island’s oldest tavernas. It opened in 1971 and remains a firm favorite.
Why we love it: “Mykonos obviously has the party reputation, but I mainly love it as a family holiday. My son learnt to walk on the wobbly streets of the colorful old town. It's also home to Santa Marina, one of the loveliest hotels in Europe." —L.B.
Where to stay on Mykonos:
- For romance: Cali Mykonos
- For families: Santa Marina
- For the party scene: Soho Roc House
- For a laid-back stay: Once in Mykonos
- For the best views: Deos
For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Mykonos.
Tinos
Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas
Tinos is one of those places that makes you feel a little smug and very much in the know. Just a 20-minute boat ride from Mykonos, you’ll watch as private jets and helicopters sweep down into its more famous neighbor, grateful for the quiet calm that Tinos affords. Decorated dovecote turrets dot the rugged landscapes, interspersed by small chapels and plenty of villages—there are more than 50 of them in Tinos, each different from the next. Hilltop Volax is a personal favorite, and one of the most unique in Greece: its surrounding plateau is sprinkled with large granite boulders flaunting an almost moon-like feel, and the village itself is home to only around 50 residents, with a strong heritage in basket-weaving. Watch as locals weave or sell their wares along small, narrow streets, and keep an eye out for the words of Greek poets like Cavafy and Elytis scrawled across walls and doors.
Elsewhere, pretty Pyrgos is the home of marble, and you’ll notice the coveted stone throughout it, from pavements and water fountains to street signs and drains; the traditional fishing village of Panormos is nearby and worth a wander around before settling into its sands for an afternoon of soaking up the sun. Two of the top restaurants in Tinos include To Thalassaki in Isterna for creative fine dining, and the traditional taverna, Svoura in Komi—but honestly, you’ll eat well wherever you go in Tinos, particularly if you visit for one of the many annual festivals dedicated to artichokes, honey, and capers. The other significant celebration here (that you may want to skip to avoid its heavy crowds) is held on August 15 at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria. As one of Greece’s most holy sites, people come from far and wide to pay their respects.
Why we love it: “Stepping foot on Tinos made me truly appreciate what people mean when they said they've found a Greek island unspoilt by tourism. Yes, there's a mini market town with boutiques selling leather sandals and woven bracelets, but for the most part, the island still feels quiet. Considering its size and short distance to Mykonos, it might not stay this way for long.” —Sarah Bannerman
Where to stay on Tinos:
- For low-key luxury: Odera Tinos
- For an authentic escape: Living Theros
- For a guest house feel: Xinara House
- For a private stay: The Detailor
Kythnos
Best for: Vacationing like a local
Summer crowds in Kythnos are rare and—if seen at all—consist of mainly Greek visitors congregating in the island's capital, Mesaria. Perhaps surprisingly so (Kythnos is one of the closest Cycladic islands to Athens), but perhaps not—this is an island that welcomes but doesn't rely on tourists, instead generating income from agriculture and fishing.
With more than 60 miles of coastline—and a similar number of beaches dotted along them—sun, sea, and sand are some of the highlights of any visit to Kythnos. The most well-known beach is Kolonos: connecting mainland Kythnos with Agios Loukas islet, this narrow, sandy strip is flanked by the sea on both sides, its unique terrain a popular pull for (non-local) beachgoers. In the north, Loutra—which means “baths”—is the spot to visit for a therapeutic dip in hot springs, while close to the port, popular beaches include Apokrousi and Martinakia (Hamsa beach bar at Martinakia is a good spot to sink into a lounger for a day). Head to Simoussi in the southeast or Stifos in the southwest to soak up the sun in solitude.
The best bet for restaurant reservations is inland: Da Massimo Sunset Restaurant in the charming village of Dryopida is a good choice, or head to Mesaria (Hora) and wander the quaint streets before taking a table at Margiora for an evening of stylized Greek dishes with a twist and creative cocktails in a restored 1800s mansion.
Why we love it: “Despite being less than a two-hour ferry ride from Athens’s Lavrio Port, Kythnos feels very much an if-you-know-you-know destination. Summer crowds are rare across most of the island and, if seen at all, consist of mainly Greek visitors.” —K.S.
Where to stay in Kythnos:
- For barefoot luxury: Yfēs Kythnos
- For a group: Simousi Villas
- For families: Amal Kythnos
Lesbos
Best for: Unique landscapes and plentiful ouzo
Often overlooked and a bit of a wild card, spend a couple of weeks in Lesbos, and you’ll soon see why it makes the cut. This is an island that’s hard to pin down—and hard to fully explore (I once spent three sunny summer months living here and still didn’t manage to see every corner). Yet, despite its size (the third largest of all the Greek island), gorgeous landscapes (olive groves, forests, beaches), contribution to the arts (it’s the birthplace of many famous poets, including Sappho), and the fact that it’s widely considered the home of Greece’s national drink (ouzo), Lesbos is not somewhere that springs to mind for many when planning Greek island escapes.
Start in its capital, Mytilene, where bars and restaurants surround a lively harbor. Morning coffee is best served the traditional way, gently heated in a tray of sand at Kafeneion "O Ermis”; two of the best lunch spots include Refenes and Apagkio (both specialise in seafood); and come evening, head to Fisheye for late-night shenanigans. But there’s a whole island to explore too, so rent a car and head to Sigri in the west, where you can hike its UNESCO-protected petrified forest, then go onwards to the north, for the thermal springs of Molyvos: here, the 17th-century domed bath house at Eftalou is a game-changing wellness wake-up. You’ll start in the building’s natural indoor hot baths (lovely) before screaming your way into the cold sea a few steps away (guilty). Save Plomari in the south of the island for the end of the day, and stay the night here too—known as the ouzo capital of Greece, this is the place to taste-test Greece’s national drink. The best place to do so is at the 132-year-old Plomari Ouzo Distillery, where you’ll also get to follow the production process.
Why we love it: “I’ll admit, there are prettier stretches of sand elsewhere, but what Lesbos can offer instead is a real, true, and sometimes raw account of Greek island life: beaches surrounded by craggy rocks and dense forests; stone-built villages climbing up hillsides; and ancient castles overlooking terra-cotta-roof-topped towns.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Lesbos:
For privacy: A-Luxury Villas
For modern comforts: Mythical Coast
For traditional charm: Zaira Hotel
Hydra
Best for: A long weekend with the art crowd
Greek and international creative crowds have long been drawn to Hydra: Sophia Loren and Henry Miller came in the fifties, followed by Leonard Cohen, Marianne Ihlen, Cat Stevens, and Sidney Nolan in the sixties. In more recent years, names like Vivienne Westwood, Kate Moss, and Olivia Palermo have been spotted here, but don’t let that fool you. There’s an element of the see-and-be-seen in Hydra but, on the whole, people visit for a low-key, sophisticated getaway. They also come for the art, and Dakis Joannou, one of the world’s most distinguished modern-art collectors, leads the scene. After opening the DESTE Foundation inside an old slaughterhouse in 2009, Joannou invites prominent artists to create bespoke installations each year.
Less than two hours from Athens, Hydra fills up with chic Greeks on weekends, and in recent years has come back into favor with the global artistic and fashion crowds, too. Don’t expect much in the way of sandy beaches, though—this car-free island lends itself to leisurely mornings hopping between boutique stores, and lazy afternoons at tavernas that will undoubtedly segue into long evenings spent perched—cocktail in hand—at a waterfront table, most likely at Hydronetta beach bar.
Why we love it: “With vehicle-free paths hemming the glimmering Aegean, tumbling cliffs, secret coves, and cats lounging in the sun on the steps of ancient chapels, Hydra Island is truly a slice of paradise. As a Leonard Cohen fan, knowing this was one of his—and many expatriate artists’— adopted homes made the visit feel all the more special.” —Tamara Southward
Where to stay on Hydra:
- For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
- For a beachfront stay: Mandraki Beach Resort
- For a group: Mirkella (sleeps 12)
- For a couple: Cycladic Stone Manor
Crete
Best for: Families and sunshine all year round
The largest of all the Greek islands, covering more than 3,000 square miles, you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect beaches but also ancient sit
es, pretty old towns, wild canyons, Venetian architecture, and child-friendly attractions. This is also one of the best islands for food, with fertile plains and year-round sun providing the ideal conditions for local agriculture and horticulture, like the wild greens (horta) grown across mountainsides, oranges and lemons cultivated in the northwest’s lowlands, and olives and olive oil produced from tip to tip. Must-try Cretan speciality dishes include dakos, a rusk salad; kalitsounia, a sweet or savory pie; kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb; and, like other Greek islands, fresh seafood. Walk into any local taverna to try them, or, for something more high-end, visit Elounda, where global restaurants are making their mark, including sushi at Sumosan, Tuscan dishes at Il Borro, and Greek flavors with a modern spin at Makris by Domes. While here, it’s worth a boat ride out towards the nearby Spinalonga island, a Venetian fortress-turned-leper-colony honored in Victoria Hislop’s 2005 novel, The Island.
Crete is also a fantastic island to see by foot. Start in Chania, where cobbled streets lead to a 700-year-old Venetian Harbour; then browse the local markets before taking the 15-or-so-minute walk out towards the lighthouse. Another walk out to sea awaits in the island’s capital, Heraklion, this time towards the two-floored Koules Fortress, another Venetian masterpiece. Beware the Meltemi winds as you stroll, they can whip up in seconds, and you may—like me—find yourself arriving soaked from head to toe thanks to a rogue wave. From here, it’s a 20-minute drive towards the Palace of Knossos, a remarkably well-preserved Minoan palace dating back almost 4,000 years. Once you’re done with sightseeing and it’s time to flop, head south—some of the best beaches in Crete are dotted along this coastline, including Sougia (southwest), Fotia (southeast), and Kommos (central-south).
Why we love it: “If you’re unsure which Greek island is best for you—perhaps you’re a group with varying needs—Crete is your best bet. It's year-round sun makes it an ideal destination no matter the time of year.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Crete:
- For families: The Royal Senses Resort & Spa
- For a great location: Phāea Blue
- For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
- For a group: Villa Cien (sleeps 16)
- For a farmhouse escale: Metohi Kindelis
For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Crete.
How we choose the best Greek islands
Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.
More Greece recommendations
- The Best Greek Island Hotels
- The Best Family Hotels in Greece
- The Most Romantic Hotels in Greece
- The Best Airbnbs in Greece
- The Best Villas in Greece
This gallery was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK. It has been updated with new information since its original publish date.