Best Greek Islands to Visit, From Local Who Travels Often

Elafonisos, located off the southeast edge of the Peloponnese peninsula, is my favorite island to visit. Small but mighty, this gorgeous destination has everything I need for a relaxing getaway.

While there, I love lounging on Simos beach before getting a shrimp-pasta dinner at Aronis Fish Tavern. If I’m in the mood for a drink or dessert, I stop at Stin Akri (I love their banoffee pie).

Then, I finish out the day at another beach, Panagia, for incredible views of the sunset.

Although there’s not a ton to do on Elafonisos, that’s part of the reason I love it so much. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a book and do some swimming.

Located about two hours from Athens by ferry, Hydra is a great place for a weekend getaway from the mainland. Cars are prohibited on the island, which I think really adds to its old-time charm.

While here, I love lounging on Mandraki beach or visiting the unique Hydronetta. Unlike traditional beaches, Hydronetta is made up of rocky platforms that are great for jumping into the sea.

Plus, there’s a great variety of delicious restaurants, from higher-end options like Téchnē and Omilos, to quaint tavernas. And, I can never leave without visiting Kai Kremmidi for my favorite souvlaki to-go.

Crete holds a special place in my heart — my grandfather was from there, and I’ve been visiting every August since I was a baby. As the biggest island in Greece, a single trip won’t cover it all.

In my opinion, renting a car is essential for exploring as much as possible. However, I recommend starting with the western part of the island, which is home to some magnificent beaches like Balos and Falasarna.

Plus, if you’re looking for a mix of history, shopping, and great food, there’s nothing quite like walking around the Old Port of Chania, a 14th-century Venetian Harbour that’s bustling with souvenir shops, tavernas, and bars. I like to walk around before sunset and do some people-watching.

Often called the smaller sister of Milos, Kimolos is a lesser-known island filled with charm. I’ve only been a few times, but it quickly won me over.

The main town is small and picturesque, and the beaches are beautiful, with crystal-clear blue waters. I love visiting Dekas and Mavrospilia for beautiful sunsets.

One of my favorite unique activities on the island is attending the open-air cinema, which appears in different locations around the island during the summer months.

Sifnos is a relatively small island, and in my opinion, it’s the perfect destination to truly relax.

I love exploring Kástro, a village that’s name translates to “castle.” Here, I walk around the small alleys, enjoy the amazing views, and see the Church of the Seven Martyrs from afar. Then, I like to grab a drink and something to eat at Loggia.

While on Sifnos, I always make sure to visit the capital of the island, Apollonia, for shopping on its picturesque cobblestone streets.

I can’t talk about my favorite Greek islands without mentioning Corfu, the place where I spent many summers as a child — and where I recently got married.

The charming buildings, incredible restaurants, and beautiful beaches always keep me coming back for more.

While on the island, I always grab something to eat at Marina’s Taverna, To Tsipouradiko, and Klimataria. They all serve proper Greek food, and everything I’ve tried has been delicious.

I typically like stopping by the iconic 19th-century Achilleion Palace, but unfortunately, most of the interior portions of the site are currently closed for renovations.