The Most Beautiful Greek Islands to Visit in 2024

Some people miss the Greek islands of the past, the nature, and the quieter, more uncontaminated ones of today. The appeal of the white houses with blue eyes, the transparent water, and the scents of the Mediterranean scrub outweigh any attempts by noisy tourists and all-inclusive planned trips.

The beauty of the sea, the singing of cicadas, and the magical heritage of history and tradition make it difficult to rank the most beautiful islands. Here are a few examples in no particular order: Whether well-known or semi-unknown, these ten treasures are stunning and suitable for a holiday in Greece’s seas.

When should I go to Greece?

To begin, in order to have a general sense of the ideal time to travel, several variables should be considered: while summer is unquestionably lovely from many perspectives, it is also true that it corresponds with peak season and is more crowded almost everywhere.

During this months, the heat might be oppressive, but the sea can provide relief. In the shade, temperatures can reach 40°C. We believe that everyone who has the option of selecting a peaceful period should not hesitate to choose late spring or early autumn.

Visiting the Greek islands in May or September has a different “flavor” than a mid-August break, and the ability to have a beach virtually all to yourself is an experience worth doing again. Furthermore, costs are always lower in the low season than in July and August, therefore this should not be overlooked during a crisis.

Which are the ten most beautiful Greek islands?

Here are some ideas for where to start your holiday, while not being exhaustive as there are over 200 inhabited islands and countless islets to choose from.

Let’s go on a tour of the most beautiful Greek islands, in our opinion.

Lefkada: Easily Accessible and Stunning Beaches

Lefkada, a hilly island in the Ionian archipelago, is connected to the Greek mainland via a causeway. Despite the high tourist traffic, it manages to surprise visitors with the beauty of its beaches, some of which, like Porto Katsiki, facing the sea, are regarded as among the best in Greece. The western shore of the island has the most gorgeous sea and famed beaches.

Symi: The Most Fascinating Neoclassical Port

Taking the boat from Rhodes (25 km south) to Simy’s long and narrow harbor gives the sense that classical Greece has not disappeared. Gial’s modest white buildings flank the pier like ageless statues, positioned like an amphitheater viewing the lake, welcoming tourists with a renowned poem.

The most stunning parties: Mykonos

For a few hours before going behind the horizon, the Mykonos sun touches the polished rocks and paints them an intense gold. It is the moment when the tiny lanes of the island, lined with the square buildings characteristic of Greece, are overrun by people. However, Mykonos is much more than just a party destination.

True, the beaches and the streets of the center are always crowded, but on closer inspection—outside of the high season—you can find some corners of tranquility and culture; the complex of the church of Panagia Paraportian, which is made up of five Byzantine churches, is a clear example of the spirit of local traditions.

Santorini: Breathtaking Views and Rich History

In 15650 BC, the island of Strongili exploded, leaving behind the granite ring of an extinct volcano in the waters. The city of Fira now rests on the top portion of the caldera, facing west, with magnificent panoramic views dominated by strong blue, turquoise, and light blue.

Santorini is a true gem in the Mediterranean Sea, attracting thousands of visitors year to view the submerged volcano’s caldera. However, such beauty, entertainment, and nightlife do not come cheap: Santorini is by far one of Greece’s most costly islands.