5 Must-Visit Greek Islands for an Unforgettable Vacation
Greece is made of over 6000 islands and islets in the blue atrium of the Aegean and Ionian Seas with beautiful and beautiful sandy beaches, ecologically fascinating history and tradition, good and wonderful foods, and interesting nightlife.
It would be quite challenging to list down just five of the must-see islands in Greece since each one of them has its own charm and allure, but here are five extraordinary islands. With the spirit of the beach lover, history explorer, foodie, fun seeker and nature enthusiast, these five islands provide amazing experiences to visitors amidst the beautiful backdrop and unique culture.
Santorini
Among the islands that should not be missed by any traveler, there is one that captivates with its beauty – Santorini. This crescent-shaped volcanic island is the epitome of iconic with its white houses on steep slopes and overlooking a circular lagoon and the blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
People go to Oia in the evening to take that ideal photograph of the village’s blue-domed churches and painted sunsets that make for a scenic backdrop, all in one view.
In addition to the views, go to the archeological site of Akrotiri, rent a boat to get to black sand, red sand, and white sand beaches, see the wineries, try the fresh seafood on the caldera, and do not miss the young island’s fun nightlife.
Mykonos
Well-known for its golden sand coastline and unique night-life as well as eating outlets and famous tourists, Mykonos represents the idyllic sunny spirit of party-going tourists’ paradise. Sunbathe on the beautiful beaches like Paradise or Super Paradise beaches; dance the night away at Cavo Paradiso bars and clubs that do not open until the early morning.
To have a break, walk through the picturesque alleys of Mykonos Chora, take pictures with the island’s well-known pet – the pelicans, explore monuments such as the island of Delos, and taste sumptuous seafood while admiring the blue of the Aegean Sea.
Crete
Discover everything from stunning sandy shores to charming island towns, from historical sites, and even eco-adventure travel in the biggest Greek island. Elafonissi and Balos, two of the island’s palm-fringed beaches, are famous for watersports while Chania and Rethymno, the two popular holiday destinations, are well known for their architecture, local cuisine, and shopping arcades.
It is impossible to travel to Crete without visiting archaeological sites that tell fascinating stories about the island such as the Minoan Palace of Knossos that is associated with myths and the Minotaur and the Labyrinth. For example, the Samaria Gorge is ideal for hikers or mountain biking and ecotourism that consists of trekking through mountains, gorges and other natural terrains are also popular.
Corfu
The current architecture, culture and the food here are distinctly different from those of other Greek islands and one can easily identify the influence of Greek, Venetian, French and even British cultures.
Spend your day on board and sail along the coast to discover tender shores and beaches such as Paleokastritsa or simply rent an umbrella and sunbed and laze on the family orientated Glyfada Beach. Go for a leisurely walk through the area of Old Town, where rather elegant Venetian and French buildings create a cosmopolitan mood.
For Greek history and mythology, check out places like the Old Nobile theater, the old fortress on the hill offering breathtaking views of the island, and the Achillion palace where kings and queens lived. Here are some dos and don’ts to consider when visiting: Don’t leave without trying outstanding food, which includes Italian and French dishes.
Rhodes
Escape to the past and immerse yourself in the history of knights and crusaders in the fortified city of Rhodes. This World Heritage site includes the Street of the Knights that will give a glimpse of what the architecture of the Crusaders was like back then especially since this was the site of the Knights of St. John during the Crusades.
Apart from the Ancient town, lay on fine sand beaches such as Tsambika beach, engage in water sports, and explore Greco-Roman antiquities such as the colossal Lindos acropolis and the historic city of Kamiros.
Enjoy delicious seafood, buy local pottery in the villages like Embonas which is located in the mountains, and explore the atmosphere of the traditional Greek village within the ancient walls of the island that has a rich crusader past and combines the spirit of a typical Greek island with its own particularities.
Conclusion
A traveler’s paradise with beautiful shores, ancient cultures, picturesque villages, excellent cuisine, tasty wines, beautiful walks, and great nightlife entertainment, these five islands give visitors the ultimate Mediterranean experience in beautiful landscapes and warm Athenian welcome.
Every island has its slang and its pride and taking a trip to the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes will be a memorable experience.
Feeling like a tourist walking through tourist attractions by visiting one island after the other in the blue Aegean sea? These above listed five islands should never be missed for an unforgettable iconic Greek Islands Vacation.
