Ammouliani may cover only around 4.5 square kilometres, but beaches are one of the strongest reasons to stay on the island rather than simply visit for the day. The coastline ranges from the popular and well-organised Alykes Beach to quieter bays such as Karagatsia, the broad sands of Megali Ammos, and more secluded places such…

Thirasia isn’t an island you visit for long stretches of golden sand or organised beach clubs. Its volcanic origins have created a steep and rugged coastline dominated by dark rock, black pebbles and deep water. As a result, there are only a few easily accessible places to swim. That’s not necessarily a disadvantage. Thirasia’s beaches…

Antipaxos may cover only around four square kilometres, but its beaches are the main reason thousands of visitors make the short boat journey from neighbouring Paxos. The island is famous for remarkably clear turquoise water, pale sand and pebbles, and a largely undeveloped coastline. Greece’s official tourism organisation highlights Voutoumi, Vrika, Mesovrika, Rodovani and Sarakiniko…

Just off the northern tip of Karpathos lies one of the wildest islands in the Dodecanese. Saria has no conventional tourist resorts, hotels or busy waterfront tavernas. Instead, visitors come for rugged landscapes, clear water, secluded beaches, hiking and the remains of settlements that reveal a surprisingly rich history. Saria is separated from Karpathos by…

Santorini, Mykonos and Crete may attract much of the international attention, but some of the most rewarding Greek island experiences can be found far away from the country’s most famous destinations. Across the Aegean and Ionian seas are smaller islands where tourism remains relatively low-key, beaches are less crowded and traditional villages continue to play…

The Greek Islands may be famous for beautiful beaches and whitewashed villages, but when the sun goes down some of them become among Europe’s liveliest summer destinations. Greek island nightlife varies enormously. Mykonos is famous for glamorous beach clubs and international DJs, while Ios has traditionally attracted a younger party crowd. Elsewhere, islands such as…

Few destinations suit a romantic holiday quite as naturally as the Greek Islands. Whitewashed villages, waterfront restaurants, secluded beaches and spectacular sunsets provide plenty of possibilities whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary or simply a holiday together. But romance doesn’t have to mean choosing the most famous island. While Santorini and Mykonos offer luxury hotels…

With thousands of islands and an enormous coastline, Greece offers almost every kind of beach imaginable. You can find long stretches of golden sand, tiny coves surrounded by cliffs, brilliant turquoise water and beaches accessible only by boat. But the best Greek island for a beach holiday depends on what you’re looking for. Some islands…

Getting to the Greek Islands is easier than it might first appear. Some of Greece’s most popular islands have international airports with direct flights from cities across Europe, while hundreds of other islands can be reached by ferry from the Greek mainland or neighbouring islands. The best route depends on where you are travelling from…

There is no single best time to visit the Greek Islands. The ideal month depends on what you want from your holiday: long days on the beach, warm seas, lively nightlife, lower prices, fewer crowds or comfortable weather for exploring. For most travellers, May, June, September and early October offer the best balance. The weather…