When it comes to Mediterranean sunshine, Greece has an enormous amount to offer. Its coastline is packed with gorgeous beaches, and there are thousands of amazing islands dotted around the surrounding sea. If you’d like to spend some time soaking in the sunshine in this part of the world, then you’ll probably want to be a little bit selective.
The most beautiful islands to visit in Greece
So, which islands qualify as worth visiting? Let’s take a look at the best of them. If you’re shopping for a villa on a Greek island, there are few better places to start the search than these islands.
Santorini
This iconic island has been a favourite with Hollywood location scouts for decades. The villages sit directly atop the cliff-sides, providing amazing views of the surrounding ocean. Expect lots of blue rooftops, which will be instantly recognisable in your holiday snaps.
The natural beauty of the island is also worth dwelling upon. The black earth contrasts with the pale buildings, and you’ll get the sorts of multicoloured sunsets that aren’t to be found anywhere else on Earth.
Sifnos
Sifnos is an island best known for its gastronomy, thanks to the publishing of a recipe book more than a hundred years ago, which helped to spread Greek cuisine to the wider world. The local speciality is melopita, which is a kind of cheese and honey-infused pie. Contributing to this island’s beauty is a series of chapels, windmills and amazing white-sand beaches.
Amorgos
This gorgeous little patch of land sits just east of the Cyclades island group. It’s a big draw for hikers, thanks to the mountains that characterise the island’s interior. The water, too, is amazingly clear and blue.
When it comes to remote, picturesque locations, this is difficult to beat. The appeal is largely that it’s hidden: if you’re looking for a break from the usual crowds at peak tourist season, then here is where you’ll find it.
Crete
Crete is an island that’s so large that you could spend weeks here without fully appreciating it. This is a region that’s thick with myth, and, lately, with people. Certain parts of the island have unfortunately, been built upon to the extent that the appeal has been sadly diminished. However, there are still pockets of authentic Crete remaining to be explored.
Hydra
If you’re staying in Athens, then you don’t need to go too far out of your way to arrive on the shores of Hydra. There are no cars or roads on the islands, which means that you’ll be getting around on foot – or on the back of a mule. As such, there’s a distinctly laid-back feel to the place.
