Best Greek Islands To Visit For The First Time

If you’re planning your first Greek island adventure, you’re in for a treat. Greece has over 6,000 islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, but over 200 are inhabited; however that number is widely debated. From sun-soaked beaches to charming villages and historic ruins, there’s something for every traveler.

With so many islands, I realized I couldn’t cover them all myself. That’s why I engaged other travel bloggers to share their experiences, giving you a fuller picture of what many of the islands have to offer. This guide focuses on the best Greek islands to visit for the first time, including practical tips on getting around, what to see, where to stay, and how to make the most of your trip.

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A Quick History of the Greek Islands

The Greek islands have been inhabited for thousands of years. Their location in the Mediterranean made them key trading posts for ancient civilizations. Today, they offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s some useful information to know:

Getting Between the Greek Islands

Getting from one island to another is easier than it looks, but it’s worth planning. The Greek islands are scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, so travel options vary depending on distance, size, and season.

A few tips for first-time island travelers:

Mastering travel between islands adds a lot to your experience. Once you understand the options, moving from Santorini to Mykonos, or Rhodes to Crete, becomes part of the adventure rather than a logistical headache.

In no particular order, let’s get into the best Greek Islands to visit when visiting Greece!

Santorini

Santorini is famous for its white buildings and stunning caldera views. During my three days in Santorini, I stayed in Fira and enjoyed exploring the narrow streets and small shops. I hiked the Fira to Oia trail, which gave me a fantastic view of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. I also visited the historic site of Megalochori, which showcased a village that had been covered by volcanic ash years ago.

I stayed at the Anatoli Hotel & Spa, which I loved for its location just outside of the main area, wonderful breakfast, and amazing spa (which I highly recommend for the experience). My room had a private jacuzzi, and the staff were welcoming, making it feel like a home base while exploring the island. My tip for Santorini is to plan your sunset viewing thoughtfully, as it can get crowded, but finding a small terrace or side street makes all the difference.

Agistri

Agistri is a small, quiet island, just an hour from Athens by ferry. During my visit, I stayed in Skala and enjoyed the slow pace of the island. I spent time on the beaches nearby, appreciating the calm atmosphere and small village charm. I highly recommend taking a private boat tour around the island – it was an amazing experience!

The island is perfect for travelers who want to relax and spend time outdoors, either walking or swimming in quiet spots. I stayed at Saronis Hotel, which I loved for its location close to the beach and family-owned charm. The room was comfortable, the staff were friendly, and it felt easy to get around on foot. My tip for visiting Agistri is to take your time and just enjoy the slower pace; it’s easy to see the main areas in a day or two, but spending a couple of nights allows you to enjoy the calm evenings and morning light on the water.

Aegina

Aegina is another Gulf island, just under an hour from Athens by ferry. I spent my day walking around Aegina, enjoying the harbor, local shops, and sampling pistachio treats that the island is known for. I also took a tour of the Temple of Aphaia and the Nektariou Aiginis Greek Orthodox Church. The island is great for a day trip or a short stay, especially for travelers who want a mix of history, small-town life, and some outdoor activity.

I recommend the Apollo Resort due to its amenities and close location to the main town and beaches. My tip for visiting Aegina is to plan your visit accordingly and head to Kolona Beach by following the main road past the museum to a small path, which will take you down to this quieter beach. Enjoy the town at a relaxed pace.

Skiathos

Skiathos is a small island and an ideal choice for first-time visitors to Greece, offering a perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and cultural charm. It’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression, so much so that its nickname is ‘The Boomerang Island’ because so many travellers feel drawn to revisit.

Skiathos Town is a highlight, with a beautiful harbour, cobbled streets, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. The town’s walkability and vibrant café culture make it especially welcoming for solo travellers and couples. Bourtzi, a small peninsula with Venetian ruins, offers stunning views and a peaceful spot for coffee or reflection.

Despite its small size, the island has over 60 beaches, so you can take your pick. You might want to choose Koukounaries, lined with pine trees and voted one of Europe’s best beaches. Alternatively, you might want to find a quieter cove that you can have to yourself.

On days when you want to explore, visit Evangelistria Monastery, the Kastro, or even walk a rescue pup at the island’s dog charity.

For accommodation, I like to stay in Skiathos Town so that you can enjoy wonderful restaurants and a stroll at sunset. For an excellent, affordable option, try Skiathos House, or for a little more luxury, just next door, you’ll find The Bourtzi Hotel. 

Symi

The colourful Island of Symi is often only visited on a day trip from Rhodes, but it is the perfect Greek Island to spend a few days on.

It’s a magnet for visitors eager to see its Neo-classical, pastel-coloured buildings teetering on the hills that encompass Symi Harbour. Traditional restaurants, charming cafes, and delicious ice-cream parlours lure visitors to try authentic Greek dishes and people-watch as sailing and fishing boats arrive and depart from the Island. 

Visiting for a day is worthwhile, but staying longer and hiring a car is even better. That way, you can see what other treasures Symi and local villages like Pedi have to offer when the day trippers leave. From hidden beaches with turquoise water to spectacular mountain viewpoints and the Panormitsis Monastery, a place of pilgrimage for Greek worshippers, you won’t run out of things to do on Symi.

Talking of beaches, the Island of Symi has plenty to choose from, many of which are only accessible by foot or local taxi boat. Try my favourite, Pedi Beach, accessible by a mountain pathway or boat. Or park up at Toli Bay and stay for the sunset – it’s pretty spectacular.

In the evenings, head to Gialos Harbour and dine at one of the charming restaurants. You have to try Simi shrimp, the local specialty. These tiny shrimp are full of flavour and fried whole (shells and all) in olive oil. Then seasoned with salt and lemon. Wash them down with a local wine or maybe a shot of Ouzo as the perfect ending to your day.

The perfect place to stay is Asymi Residences.

Corfu

Located in north-western Greece, Corfu, or Kerkyra as it is known in Greece, is the second largest of the Ionian islands.  Beautiful, lush Corfu is different from other Greek islands due to its predominantly Venetian architecture and green landscape.  It’s a gorgeous island with a dramatic coastline and UNESCO-designated Old Town.

Corfu is best suited for couples and quiet travellers.  While it does have gorgeous beaches, there’s so much more to see and do on this lovely island.  Some Greek islands are best for a few days, but Corfu is a destination in itself.  You could spend a week or two leisurely exploring the sites and enjoying the sea.

There’s something for every kind of traveller on Corfu.  The island has amazing hiking because of the verdant forest terrain.  For wine lovers, there’s an established viticulture with many vineyards open to visitors.  History lovers will adore the Byzantine castles, Roman ruins, and historic Orthodox monasteries.   Wander the cobbled lanes and gardens of Corfu Town and admire the Venetian architecture.  It’s even possible to do a day trip to Saranda, Albania, from Corfu!  It only takes 30 minutes by ferry.

To best explore Corfu, I recommend renting a car and staying outside Corfu Town near the sea.  Hotel Yannis on Ipsos Beach is a great location and has free parking.  It’s not far from the port or the airport, and well located for exploring all of Corfu.

Kefalonia

When all you’re looking for is peace, quiet, beaches, and scenery, but you also want to experience some local culture (and even a bit of history), Kefalonia is the island that should be on your radar.

Situated between Zakynthos and Lefkada, this Ionian island is an absolute paradise, and the fact that it’s still not as well-known as other Greek destinations is a big bonus.

Probably the top reason to visit (and why I loved it so much) is the mesmerizing coastline, with beaches that boast unreal turquoise yet crystal clear waters, including Myrtos, Fteri, and Antisamos. Extra tip – bring water shoes because many beaches in central and northern Kefalonia are pebbly.

Your Kefalonia itinerary should, of course, include other spots and activities, like the charming villages of Assos and Fiskardo, the Melissani Cave Lake, wineries, honey farms, and even sailing and sea turtle watching. The green landscape is all around you when you drive across the island, but if you’re looking for something outdoorsy to engage in, hiking in the Mount Ainos National Park is a good place to start.

I highly recommend staying in the little holiday home of Nerea in Agia Effimia for a perfect location – an ideal town to base yourself in & a serene accommodation location with sea views.

Crete

When it comes to picking the perfect Greek Island for your next vacation, the sky’s the limit. From small rocks stranded in the heart of the Aegean Sea to elegant mansion-filled islands in the Ionian Sea, there’s a Greek Island for everyone.

But if we had to choose one island that anyone should visit at least once, that would definitely be Crete. That’s because Crete, the largest island in Greece, feels like Greece in miniature, a blessed land that has everything, from glistening beaches and dramatic mountains to picturesque, tiny villages and bustling cities.

Crete dominates the southern part of Greece. It’s split into four parts: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, and Agios Nikolaos. Each of these four regions has its fair share of everything that makes Crete unique, but here are a few highlights.

In Chania, you’ll fall in love with the Old Port, a Venetian settlement where time seems to have stood still. The historic center of Rethymno is equally enchanting, and you’ll love strolling around its Italianate squares and alleys.

Near Heraklion, visiting the Knossos archaeological site for a glimpse into the once mighty Minoans, an ancient civilisation, is a must. And then there’s lesser-known Agios Nikolaos, the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the real Crete, among locals and only a few fellow visitors.

When visiting Crete, try to spend as much time as possible there; the island is huge and distances are equally so. If you only have a week or so, pick one of the four regions and explore to your heart’s content. That’s a lot wiser than trying to fit too many places into only a few days. You can always come back for more.

One of our favourite places to stay in Crete is Uni Island – Old Town Suites in the heart of Heraklion city. We love this place for longer stays as it offers fully equipped, stylish apartments in an excellent location.

Paros

Paros is one of the most beautiful and diverse Greek islands to visit for the first time, offering the perfect balance of stunning beaches, lively towns, and authentic Cycladic charm. The best place to be based on the island is in the picturesque village of Naoussa, where postcard-perfect scenes are found in every flower-covered alley.

When planning the perfect Paros itinerary, you can’t miss taking a dip at Kolymbithres Beach, exploring the traditional villages of Lefkes and Marpissa, and taking a boat tour to the spectacular Blue Lagoon and nearby island of Antiparos. Three days on Paros is a good amount of time to see the highlights without being too rushed.

Paros has no shortage of incredible Greek tavernas; my two favourites in Naoussa are Sigi Ikthios and Taverna Glafkos, both serving fresh seafood with unbeatable sea views. Sante Cocktail Bar and Come Back are ideal for sunset cocktails. When dining out in the port town of Parikia, Arodo Restaurant is a true gem with amazing Greek food and incredible views.

I had the best stay at Ragoussis Sweet Rooms in Naoussa. This lovely accommodation is steps from the main square, it has spacious modern rooms, and the kindest hosts, making it a great base for exploring the island.

Paros suits couples, groups of friends, and solo travellers looking for a mix of culture, beaches, delicious Greek cuisine, and fun nightlife. A top tip: rent a scooter or car to explore beyond Naoussa, this is the best way to discover the island’s best hidden beaches and villages. 

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a rather small island located west of Athens and can be reached by airplane or by ferry from the mainland.

What makes Zakynthos special is its vegetation; the island is very green. It is a great place for herbalists or independent travelers, since public transportation is pretty poor and only works in the high season. Therefore, it is advisable to travel by car. 

If you are a marine wildlife lover, Zakynthos might be the perfect Greek island for you to visit. The west coast of the island is rather rough, with steep rocks. It is home to the endangered Monk seals. Additionally, you can spot turtles, dolphins, starfish fish and various reef fish. Sea tours take you out on the water, where you may spot animals.

Are you looking for fresh Mediterranean herbs? Then spring or autumn is the ideal time to visit the island. As you go for walks, you will come across wild fennel, thyme, mountain savory, and sage. Great villages for walking are Keri and Loucha in the south of the island. If you want to go on longer hikes, you might need a tour guide because the paths aren’t marked.

Beate Houses in Ag. Sostis is a great place to stay, very close to the beach. The area has guest houses and a large garden where you can relax in a hammock or on a sunbed.

If you visit Zakynthos, make sure you skip the busy high season in summer to get the most out of it.

Naxos

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and one of the most underrated Greek islands. While nearby Santorini and Paros attract more name recognition, Naxos offers a perfect balance of culture, beaches, history, and authentic island life. It’s centrally located, making it a great base if you want to hop to smaller islands like Koufonisia on day trips.

There’s plenty to do in Naxos. You can wander through Naxos Town’s old streets, lounge on Plaka Beach, or hike up Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. The island also offers unique experiences like going scuba diving, visiting centuries-old monasteries, or joining a guided bike tour through the countryside.

Explore the smaller villages like Chalki or Apeiranthos, where you’ll find local artistry like marble carving, or take part in a cooking class or kitron tasting to experience the island’s culinary traditions.

When it comes to where to stay, you’ll want to decide between being based in Naxos Town (Chora) or near the beaches. Staying in Naxos Town puts you close to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and the main port. It’s a good option if you like a lively atmosphere and easy access to day trips. But if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, the beachside areas like Plaka, Agios Prokopios, and Agia Anna are ideal, with long stretches of sand and a laid-back feel. For a beachfront stay right on Plaka Beach, Sundunes is a great boutique hotel option.

You can easily pair a visit to Naxos with another island, since it’s on the same popular ferry routes as islands like Paros, Mykonos, and Santorini, making it simple to create your own island-hopping itinerary.

Skopelos

Skopelos is one of those Greek islands that still flies under the radar – a small, quiet island near to the more popular Skiathos. With no airport, it remains relatively untouched by the mass tourism faced by so many Greek islands – particularly popular spots like Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes. In contrast, stepping off the boat in Skopelos feels like stepping back into a different Greece – one that is more authentic, with whitewashed houses, pine-covered hills, and friendly hospitality.

Once adored by the Venetians, its influence is still visible in the island’s architecture—most notably the hilltop Venetian fortress with its breathtaking views.

In modern times, the island is famous for being the filming location of Mamma Mia!, and sites like Kastani Bay, Panormos, and the famous chapel are a great option for fans.

I recommend staying at the Sunrise Village Hotel Apartments on the edge of Skopelos Town – while the town is busy during the day as part of day trips from Skiathos to Skopelos and Alonissos, at night there it has a more peaceful vibe, perfect for dining harbourside or strolling the cobbled streets. But if you want somewhere truly off the beaten track, try beautiful Panormos, which has a handful of restaurants and a golden sandy beach.

Syros

Syros Island is in the Cyclades region. And it’s famous for its sunsets, golden sand beaches, and white-washed buildings. 

We stayed in the tiny beachside village of Galissas for our week on Syros, and each night we climbed the steps of the little white church on the hill, called Agia Pakou church, and sat on its wall, while the sun slowly fell into the ocean. Pure bliss! 

During our time in Syros, we also hiked from Kini to Delfini Beach. This fairly easy trail is 2.9 km long and is super-scenic. But it’s worth noting that it is quite rocky and steep in sections. 

We also spent a full day wandering around the largest city on the island – Ermoupoli. Fun fact: this city is the administrative capital of the Cyclades. 

We loved exploring (and photographing) its winding, cobbled streets and white-washed buildings. And from here, we walked up to Anos Syros, which sits above Ermoupoli. This is a former Venetian settlement and is home to one of the only catholic churches on Syros – the Cathedral of San Georgio. On the way back into Ermoupoli, I went for a swim off the pier in the Vaporia Quarter. It was so refreshing!

We stayed at the Remvi Hotel in Galissas. And we loved it. Our room was bright and airy and had a large balcony. There’s also an outdoor pool.

And finally, my top tip for visiting Syros is to travel here in May or June – when the weather is warm but the crowds are less.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a popular island amongst the Cycladic group of islands in Greece because of its whitewashed houses, cobblestone alleys, and its famous azure waters. It is a popular island many choose for their first visit, as it’s got a little something for everybody, as you’ll find your usual attractions here, but also a laidback vibe and some great spots to spend the night.

Chora is where you’ll find the postcard-perfect windmills – perfect for an evening stroll. There’s also no dearth of boutique shops and chic cafes. Beaches like Psarou are more popular and crowded, but there are many places even now that can be explored if you’re looking for something quieter. 

For nightlife enthusiasts, Mykonos tends to be the top spot amongst most islands, but if you’re not keen on it, you won’t be disturbed no matter where you choose to stay. You can also opt for a day trip to Delos if you’re staying longer. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is definitely a must-do do especially for history buffs. Island hopping from Mykonos is also quite popular. 

You can rent a scooter on the island if needed, as roads tend to be narrow, but if you choose to stay in the main part of town, most places are within walking distance. However, if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, you may want to pick somewhere away from the centre. 

I stayed at Rochari Hotel in the old town on my first visit, as it is right in the centre – a quick walk to most attractions and restaurants. They have excellent service and amenities, and it isn’t too noisy here despite its location. The rooftop is great to catch sunsets away from the crowds. Staff are excellent and attentive. 

Tip: Although Europe is getting busy throughout the year, May or early September, when the weather is beautiful, the sea is warm, and the island is lively without being overwhelming, is the perfect time to visit. Avoid August if possible, as school holidays will be on and afternoons will be quite hot! 

Thassos

Another great Greek island to visit for the first time is Thassos. Thassos is the northernmost Greek island, located just a few kilometers from the mainland city of Kavala. Also called “The Emerald of the Aegean Sea,” it’s known for its lush, green, and heavily forested landscape.

It’s not a very touristy island, so it’s perfect for people who want a quiet, authentic Greek holiday instead of partying and going out in the evening.

Some of the most popular towns to see include Limenas, the “capital” of the island, with its old harbor and Ancient Theater, as well as the villages of Skala and Skala Potamias. Both are located at the foot of Ipsarion, the island’s highest mountain, which is perfect for hiking.

Thassos is also famous for its marble, and the best place to see the last remains of this heritage is the ancient marble quarry in Alyki. Alyki itself is a beautiful peninsula where you can also find wonderful beaches to relax.

Another site worth visiting is the Monastery of Archangel Michael, which offers a panoramic view of the sea and a gorgeous chapel in a peaceful inner courtyard.

Thassos isn’t very big, and you can easily explore the entire island in just 2–3 days, but you might want to stay longer to enjoy some beach time. A great hotel to base yourself in is Hotel Pegasus in Limenas, just a short walk from the old harbor and the promenade with plenty of restaurants and bars.

Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands, located just a few kilometres from the shores of Turkey. It’s well-known for its medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with winding streets and impressive architecture combining ​​elements from ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences.

We recommend renting a car in Rhodes Town and making your way to Lindos. The town is famous for its stunning Acropolis and picturesque, traditional white houses. Make sure you also stop at Lindos Beach, which is a gorgeous stretch of sand overlooked by the mighty Acropolis. 

If you’re a fan of beaches, Tsambika Beach is one of the island’s highlights. With its golden sand, clear blue waters, and a striking rocky backdrop, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a day by the sea.

Rhodes is a great destination for families, offering plenty of accommodation options and safe, shallow beaches where kids can swim and play.

We recommend staying at Maritina Apartments in Ialysos, which is an excellent budget-friendly option. We liked it for its location, only a short walking distance from the beach, and that each studio comes with a well-equipped kitchenette.

We visited Rhodes in October, and we believe it’s the perfect time to enjoy the island free from crowds. October in Rhodes is still great for swimming in the sea and sunbathing, plus you’ll be able to sightsee without the extreme heat of the summer months. 

FAQs About Visiting the Greek Islands

Final Tips for First-Time Visitors to Greece

Choosing the best Greek islands to visit for the first time comes down to what you want from your trip. Think about:

From my travels, I’ve found that planning carefully makes a huge difference. Visiting 2–3 islands allows you to experience the variety without feeling rushed. Each island shows a unique side of Greek life, making your first island adventure unforgettable. Greece did not disappoint, and I look forward to going back and visiting more islands.

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