Greece is known for its picturesque islands, stunning beaches, and rich culture and history. With over 200 inhabited islands to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to visit for your next vacation. In this article, we will help you narrow down your choices and choose the best Greek island for your next getaway. We will focus on five popular islands: Rhodes, Mykonos, Corfu, Santorini, and Kos.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Greek Island Before we dive into each island, it’s important to consider the following factors when choosing the best Greek island for your next vacation:
Budget and Affordability:
Greece offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Make sure to research the average prices of flights, accommodations, and activities on each island to ensure it fits within your budget.
Type of Vacation:
Different islands offer different experiences. Are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure-packed getaway, or a vibrant nightlife scene? Make sure to choose an island that offers the type of vacation you’re looking for.
Accessibility and Transportation:
Some islands are easier to get to than others. Consider the availability of flights, ferries, and transportation on each island.
Weather and Climate:
Greece has a Mediterranean climate, but some islands may have milder or harsher weather than others depending on the time of year. Consider the climate and weather patterns of each island to plan your trip accordingly.
Local Culture and Cuisine:
Each island has its own unique culture and cuisine. Do some research on the local customs, festivals, and cuisine to choose an island that aligns with your interests.
Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the largest islands in Greece and is located in the southeastern Aegean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and medieval architecture.
Location and Accessibility:
Rhodes has its own airport, which makes it easily accessible from many European cities. It is also possible to reach Rhodes by ferry from Athens or other nearby islands.
Highlights and Attractions:
The Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights, a medieval fortress that was built in the 14th century. Other popular attractions include the Lindos Acropolis, which is a well-preserved ancient citadel, and the Valley of the Butterflies, a beautiful natural park.
Best Beaches:
Rhodes has numerous beautiful beaches, including Faliraki Beach, Tsambika Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay.
Local Food and Drink:
Rhodes is known for its traditional dishes such as mezes, which are small plates of various appetizers, and souvlaki, which is grilled meat on skewers. The island is also famous for its local wine and honey.
Mykonos
Mykonos is a popular island known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture.
Location and Accessibility:
Mykonos has its own airport, which makes it easily accessible from many European cities. It is also possible to reach Mykonos by ferry from Athens or other nearby islands.
Highlights and Attractions:
Mykonos is known for its picturesque Little Venice area, which features colorful houses built right on the water. The Windmills of Mykonos are another popular attraction, and the island is also known for its ancient ruins on nearby Delos Island.
Best Beaches:
Mykonos has many beautiful beaches, including Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach, and Elia Beach.
Nightlife and Entertainment:
Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs that stay open late into the night.
Local Food and Drink:
Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife and upscale restaurants, but there are also plenty of options for delicious and authentic local food and drink. One must-try dish is the kopanisti, a spicy cheese dip made with Mykonian cheese and peppers, often served with bread or vegetables. Another popular dish is the louza, a cured pork meat served with cheese and tomatoes. For a sweet treat, try the amygdalota, almond cookies flavored with rosewater. When it comes to drinks, ouzo is a traditional Greek spirit that is a must-try in Mykonos. There are also several local wineries on the island, producing high-quality white and red wines. Be sure to also try a frappe, a frothy iced coffee that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Corfu
Corfu is one of the most popular islands in Greece, located in the Ionian Sea. It has a unique blend of Greek, Italian, and French influences, which is reflected in its culture, architecture, and cuisine. Corfu is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and lush greenery, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Top Tourist Sites:
- Old Town of Corfu: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit attraction in Corfu. It is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with Venetian-style buildings, churches, and fortresses.
- Achilleion Palace: This palace was built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria in the 19th century and features beautiful gardens and stunning views of the sea.
- Paleokastritsa: This beautiful village is located on the west coast of Corfu and is known for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Best Food:
- Sofrito: A traditional Corfiot dish made with veal cooked in a garlic and white wine sauce.
- Pastitsada: Another popular Corfiot dish made with beef or rooster cooked in a tomato sauce and served with pasta.
- Kourabiedes: Delicious almond cookies covered in powdered sugar, often served during holidays.
Best Restaurants:
- To Kyma: A seafood restaurant located on the beach in Paleokastritsa, offering fresh seafood and stunning views.
- Rex: A family-run restaurant located in the heart of Corfu Town, serving traditional Corfiot cuisine.
- Venetian Well: A fine-dining restaurant located in a restored 17th-century Venetian well in the Old Town of Corfu.
Best Places to Stay:
- Mayor Mon Repos Palace “Art Hotel”: A luxury hotel located near the Old Town of Corfu, offering stunning views of the sea and the Mon Repos Palace.
- Cavalieri Hotel: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Corfu Town, offering elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
- MarBella Corfu Hotel: A beachfront resort located on the east coast of Corfu, offering luxurious rooms, multiple restaurants, and a private beach.
Best Shopping Centres and Markets:
- Liston: A promenade in the heart of Corfu Town lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Corfu Old Town Market: A market located in the Old Town of Corfu, offering a variety of goods such as fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
- Agora Market: A food market located in the center of Corfu Town, offering fresh produce, meat, fish, and cheese.
Santorini
Santorini is one of the most iconic islands in Greece, famous for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches. It is located in the Cyclades islands and is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples.
Top Tourist Sites:
- Oia: A picturesque village located on the northern tip of Santorini, known for its stunning sunsets and panoramic views.
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site: This archaeological site is home to ruins of an ancient Minoan city buried by a volcanic eruption.
- Red Beach: A unique beach with red volcanic sand, located near the village of Akrotiri.
Best Food:
- Fava: A traditional Santorini dish made with yellow split peas, served as a dip or a side dish.
- Tomatokeftedes: Fried tomato balls made with tomatoes, onion, and feta cheese.
- Gyros: A Greek classic made with meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
Best Restaurants:
- Selene: A fine-dining restaurant located in Pyrgos village, offering modern Greek cuisine using local ingredients.
- Metaxy Mas: A hidden gem located in Exo Gonia village, serving traditional Santorini cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
- Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna: A seafood restaurant located on the cliffs of Ammoudi Bay, offering fresh seafood and stunning views.
Best Places to Stay:
- Canaves Oia Hotel: A luxury hotel located in Oia village, offering stunning views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea.
- Grace Santorini: A boutique hotel located in Imerovigli village, offering luxurious rooms and a beautiful infinity pool.
- Astra Suites: A romantic hotel located in Imerovigli village, offering private suites with stunning views of the caldera.
Best Shopping Centres and Markets:
- Fira Market: A market located in the capital of Santorini, offering a variety of goods such as souvenirs, jewelry, and clothes.
- Oia Market: A market located in Oia village, offering handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Atlantis Books: A charming bookstore located in Oia village, offering a selection of books and souvenirs.
Kos
Kos is a popular island in the Dodecanese group, located close to the coast of Turkey. It is known for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient landmarks.
Top Tourist Sites:
- Asklepion: An ancient healing center dedicated to the Greek god of medicine, located on a hill outside of Kos town.
- Kos Town: The capital of Kos island, known for its impressive castle, lively harbor, and narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants.
- Therma Beach: A unique beach with hot springs, located near the village of Agios Fokas.
Best Food:
- Pitaroudia: A traditional Kos dish made with chickpeas, onion, and spices, served as a snack or appetizer.
- Souvlaki: A Greek classic made with grilled meat, usually served with pita bread, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce.
- Krasotiri: A local Kos cheese made with red wine, served as a dip or a side dish.
Best Restaurants:
- Elia: A fine-dining restaurant located in Kos town, offering modern Greek cuisine using local ingredients.
- Taverna Andreas: A family-run restaurant located in the village of Zia, offering traditional Kos cuisine and stunning views.
- Laikon: A seafood restaurant located in Kos town, offering fresh seafood and local specialties.
Best Places to Stay:
- Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel + Spa: A luxury hotel located in Lambi, offering elegant rooms and a beautiful pool area.
- Astir Odysseus Kos Resort and Spa: A family-friendly hotel located in Tingaki, offering spacious rooms and a range of amenities.
- Diamond Deluxe Hotel: A romantic hotel located in Lambi, offering luxurious rooms and a beautiful spa.
Best Shopping Centres and Markets:
- Kos Market: A market located in the capital of Kos island, offering a variety of goods such as souvenirs, jewelery, and clothes.
- Zia Market: A market located in the village of Zia, offering handmade crafts, honey, and local products.
- Hippocrates Garden Cultural Center: A cultural center located in Mastichari, offering a range of activities such as pottery workshops, cooking classes, and traditional dance performances.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Greek island for your next vacation can be a difficult task, as each island has its own unique charm and attractions. Rhodes, Mykonos, Corfu, Santorini, and Kos are all excellent choices, offering a range of activities, stunning scenery, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, these islands are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.