The 15 most popular Greek islands

There are over 1,000 Greek islands, about 120 of which are inhabited. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some popular Greek islands for a vacation in Greece. Each of these islands has its own charm and is special in its own way. From the Ionian Sea in the west to the Aegean Sea in the south and east, there’s something for everyone.

“Every Greek island is a world unto itself.”

For years, the top 5 most popular islands in Greece have been Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, and Santorini. This comes as no surprise, as they offer the most direct flights from all over Europe during the season and countless hotels in every price range await vacationers. It gets very busy here in the summer; those who prefer a quieter atmosphere can head to the neighboring islands.

Our ranking reveals which other Greek islands are among the hottest vacation destinations in Greece. Check out our particularly helpful guide for first-time visitors:

Which is the most beautiful Greek island?

The answer is quite simple: there is no single “most beautiful” Greek island. Each and every Greek island is unique in its nature and its people, and thus beautiful in its own special way.

The incredible diversity of islands in Greece means that everyone defines their own “most beautiful Greek island” quite differently. In any case, all Greek islands are considered dream vacation destinations in Europe!

#1 Crete: The Largest Greek Island

Crete is ideal for: family vacations, beach vacations, hiking and active vacations, history buffs, first-time visitors to Greece

Crete is the most popular Greek island and, alongside the capital Athens, the top vacation destination in Greece.

No other island offers such diversity. From picturesque beaches with turquoise-blue seas to lush green landscapes and mountains reaching nearly 2,500 meters in height, it has it all.

History buffs flock to the numerous archaeological sites, including the Palace of Knossos, considered the ancient landmark of Crete.

The island of Crete has something to offer every type of traveler. Beaches are scattered across the entire island. Whether you’re on a family vacation, a beach getaway, or an active adventure—even night owls will find something to their liking.

The major cities of Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania offer charming boutiques and shops for shopaholics, as well as interesting museums and exhibitions for culture enthusiasts.

In the remote east and in Southern Crete, those seeking peace and quiet will find their paradise. Secluded mountain villages with quaint taverns showcase Crete’s roots and offer an authentic glimpse into the Cretan way of life.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination of Crete

Click here for our articles on Crete:

• Crete Travel Tips
• Crete Holiday Resorts
• Best Hotels in Crete
• Crete Excursions
• Crete Highlights
• Crete Holiday
• Travel Guide to Western Crete

→ Popular Attractions in Crete

• Samaria Gorge
• Knossos Palace
• Elafonisi
• Balos
• Old Town of Chania
• Old Town of Rethymno
• Vai Palm Beach near Sitia
• Spinalonga Island
• Lasithi Plateau

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Crete

• Falassarna Beach
• Elafonisi Beach
• Xerokampos Beach
• Kokkini Ammos in Matala
• Balos Beach
• Seitan Limani Beach
• Stalis Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Crete

• Heraklion
• Chania
• Rethymno
• Agios Nikolaos
• Sitia
• Limenas Chersonisou
• Kissamos
• Elounda
• Malia
• Agia Galini
• Stalos
• Paleochora

Does Crete have an airport?

Crete actually has three airports. Numerous direct flights from Germany go to the beautiful island of Crete (HER and CHQ).

• Heraklion HER Airport
• Chania CHQ Airport
• Sitia JSH Airport

Crete Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Crete is an ideal vacation destination for anyone who wants to explore Greece. However, the best accommodations sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Here you can search directly for affordable vacation deals in Crete:

➲ Find affordable Crete package tours (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Crete hotels (Booking.com)*

#2 Rhodes: The Sunny Island of the Aegean

Rhodes is ideal for: package vacations, family vacations, beach vacations, history buffs, windsurfers and kiteboarders, hiking and active vacations

Rhodes is the fourth-largest island in Greece and has long been one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. With 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Rhodes is even considered one of the sunniest destinations in Europe.

Much like Crete, the island of Rhodes offers plenty of variety for all types of travelers. First-time visitors to Greece, in particular, feel right at home here.

The picturesque Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you stroll through the medieval alleys, you’ll feel transported back to times long past.

Among the popular destinations is the town of Lindos with its white houses and imposing acropolis. Numerous sandy and pebble beaches are scattered around the island.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination of Rhodes

Click here for our articles on Rhodes:

• Rhodes Highlights
• Rhodes Excursions
• Rhodes Town
• Rhodes Holiday
• Rhodes Beaches
• Best Rhodes Hotels

→ Popular Attractions in Rhodes

• Lindos Acropolis
• Rhodes Old Town
• Kallithea Springs
• Mandraki Harbor
• Ancient Site of Kamiros
• Monolithos Castle
• Moni Thari Monastery
• Tsambika (Monastery & Mountain Chapel)
• Neighboring Islands of Symi and Chalki

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Rhodes

• Anthony Quinn Bay
• Glystra Beach
• Prasonisi Lagoon
• Agathi Beach
• St. Paul’s Bay
• Tsambika Beach
• Stegna Beach
• Elli Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Rhodes

• Old Town of Rhodes
• Ialysos
• Lindos
• Faliraki
• Afandou
• Theologos
• Kiotari
• Siana
• Embonas

Does Rhodes have an airport?

Rhodes Diagoras Airport (RHO) is located about 20 minutes from Rhodes Town. Numerous direct flights from Germany are available to the popular island of Rhodes.

Rhodes Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Accommodations on Rhodes also book up quickly during the peak season. Take a look around to see if there’s a nice vacation home for you:

➲ Find affordable Rhodes package tours (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Crete hotels (Booking.com)*

#3 Santorini: Greece’s picture-perfect island

Santorini is ideal for: couples, honeymooners, jet-setters and Instagram enthusiasts, photography lovers, party people

Santorini is considered a picture-perfect Greek island and enchants millions of visitors every year. Santorini is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in Europe.

Consequently, the island is bursting at the seams, especially in midsummer, and you’ll usually have to “share” the “hotspots,” such as the popular sunset in Oia, with thousands of other vacationers.

The villages of Oia and Thira, with their distinctive Cycladic architecture, are classic postcard scenes. The gleaming white houses and blue churches perch on the rim of a former volcano.

The island of Santorini is also a popular destination for cruise tourists during a Mediterranean cruise. However, they have far too little time to fully explore the beauty of Santorini.

In addition to the picturesque villages, a variety of impressive beaches await you. Red, black, and gray sandy beaches characterize the coastline.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Santorini

Click here for our articles about Santorini:

• Santorini Sights
• Santorini Holiday
• Santorini Excursions
• Best Santorini Hotels
• Santorini Beaches

→ Popular sights in Santorini

• Sunset in Oia
• Cycladic Houses in Thira
• Akrotiri Archaeological Site
• Santorini’s wineries
• Thirasia Islands
• Kameni Volcano

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Santorini

• Amoudi Bay
• Kamari Beach
• Perissa Black Sand Beach
• Perivolos Beach
• Vlychada Beach
• Kokkini Red Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Santorini

• Thira
• Oia
• Pyrgos
• Imerovigli
• Akrotiri
• Perissa
• Kamari
• Megalochori

Does Santorini have an airport?

The airport is called Santorini Airport JTR and is located in the east of the island. The major German airports in Frankfurt and Munich offer direct flights to Santorini several times a week.

Santorini Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Are you excited about the gorgeous island of Santorini? Especially during peak season, the best accommodations book up fast. Here you can directly compare suitable vacation deals for Santorini:

➲ Find affordable Santorini package tours (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Santorini hotels (Booking.com)*

#4 Corfu: The green island in the Ionian Sea

Corfu is ideal for: family vacations, beach vacations, first-time visitors to Greece, cyclists and mountain bikers, hiking and active vacations

The island of Corfu is located in the Ionian Sea and is part of the Ionian Islands of the same name. Corfu Town, also known as Kerkyra, forms the center of the island.

Kerkyra captivates visitors with its impressive architectural style, characterized by Venetian, French, and British influences. A magnificent Venetian fortress towers over the city.

Corfu is the green island in the Ionian Sea and is considered a hiker’s paradise. Its many forests and fertile landscapes are characteristic of Corfu. Additionally, the island is among the wealthiest regions in Greece.

Its many beaches make Corfu a beautiful vacation destination for beach lovers and sunbathers. But Corfu also has plenty to offer active explorers, with ancient fortresses and secluded villages.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Corfu

Click here for our articles about Corfu:

• Corfu Highlights
• Corfu Beaches – Our Top 10
• Corfu Town
• Best Corfu Hotels
• Corfu Holiday – 11 Important Facts

→ Popular sights in Corfu

• Corfu Old Town
• Angelokastro
• Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island
• Achilleion Corfu
• Mount Pantokrator
• Chlomos Mountain Village
• Ghost Town of Palia Perithia
• Neighboring Island of Paxos

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Corfu

• Bays around Paleokastritsa
• Agios Stefanos Beach (northwest)
• Gardenos Beach
• Agios Georgios Beach
• Barbati Beach
• Porto Timoni Bay
• Voutoumi Beach (Paxos)

→ Important Places on the Island of Corfu

• Kerkyra
• Paleokastritsa
• Kassiopi
• Agios Gordios
• Sidari
• Acharavi
• Kontokali

Does Corfu have an airport?

Corfu’s Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU) is located just below Corfu Town (Kerkyra). As a popular vacation destination, Corfu is served by direct flights from many German airports several times a week.

Corfu Package Tours, Vacation Rentals & Hotels: Can you imagine Corfu being the ideal vacation destination for you? Especially during peak season, many accommodations on Corfu are fully booked. Here you can compare affordable vacation deals for Corfu:

➲ Find affordable Corfu package deals (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Corfu hotels (Booking.com)*

#5 Mykonos: The Greek Party Island

Mykonos is ideal for: party people, jet-setters, and Instagram enthusiasts, couples and singles, photography lovers, island hopping

The island of Mykonos is the Ibiza of Greece and known as the party island of the Cyclades. Its vibrant nightlife is both famous and notorious. Those seeking peace and quiet and families should therefore avoid the island, unless they visit during the off-season until April or from October onward.

The windmills of Kato Myli, right by the sea, are the landmarks of Mykonos. Every evening, a crowd of vacationers gathers here to admire the spectacular sunset.

Right next to it is the romantic Little Venice district with numerous restaurants and bars. Prices for accommodations and restaurants are significantly higher almost everywhere on the island than on other Greek islands.

Behind Little Venice, you’ll find yourself immersed in the picturesque capital, Chora. It’s a paradise-like maze of narrow white alleys with colorful wooden balconies and small shops. During peak season, however, crowds throng through here both during the day and in the evening.

Things are a bit quieter in the Mykonos hinterland. Here, gentle green hills and countless small chapels—every family is said to own one—shine brightly.

Mykonos is not short on beautiful beaches, and even in the high season, you can still find secluded coves on the island that are less crowded. Partygoers feel particularly at home on beaches like Super Paradise Beach.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Mykonos

Click here for our articles about Mykonos:

• Mykonos Sights
• Mykonos Beaches
• Mykonos Excursions
• Mykonos Holiday – 11 Important Facts
• Best Mykonos Hotels

→ Popular Attractions in Mykonos

• Mykonos Old Town (Chora)
• Little Venice
• Mykonos Windmills
• Delos Island (Archaeological Site)
• Panagia Paraportiani
• Armenistis Lighthouse

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Mykonos

• Super Paradise Beach
• Agios Sostis Beach
• Kalafati Beach
• Mini Lia Beach
• Ornos Beach
• Elia Beach
• Panormos Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Mykonos

• Mykonos Town
• Ano Mera
• Platis Gialos
• Tourlos
• Agios Ioannis Diakoftis
• Ornos

Does Mykonos have an airport?

Mykonos Airport (JMK) is less than 10 minutes away from Mykonos Town. In the summer, there are many direct flights from Germany to Mykonos.

Mykonos Package Tours, Vacation Rentals & Hotels: Mykonos isn’t exactly cheap, and accommodations book up in a flash during peak season. Whether you want to join the party crowd or are looking for a quiet place to stay during the off-season, you can compare affordable deals here:

➲ Find affordable Mykonos package tours (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Mykonos hotels (Booking.com)*

#6 Zakynthos: The Turtle Island

Zakynthos is ideal for: package vacations, beach vacations, partygoers, photography enthusiasts

After Corfu, the island of Zakynthos is the second most popular island in the Ionian Sea. Zakynthos is located at the very southern tip of the archipelago and is known as a swimming paradise thanks to its beautiful sandy and pebble beaches, which are surrounded by steep white cliffs.

In particular, Smugglers’ Cove, also known as Navagio Beach, with its rusted shipwreck, has become a true celebrity in recent years, largely thanks to Instagram. As a result, more and more vacationers are flocking to the island.

Much to the chagrin of the native loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). This species uses the beautiful beaches of Zakynthos as a nesting ground and lays its eggs in the fine sand. Due to growing tourism, this marine creature is now severely threatened.

With its numerous caves and grottos, the island also reveals itself as a true natural paradise. Independent travelers and active vacationers discover authentic farming villages and ancient monasteries far from the tourist crowds while exploring the island.

Zakynthos was also under Venetian rule for a long time, a fact reflected in the island’s typical architectural style and cultural monuments.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Zakynthos

Learn more about Zakynthos in the following articles:

• Zakynthos Sights
• Zakynthos Beaches
• Best Zakynthos Hotels – Our Top 20

→ Popular sights in Zakynthos

• Zakynthos Shipwreck at Navagio Beach
• Zakynthos Town Harbor
• Marathonisi Island (Turtle Island)
• Blue Caves at Cape Skinari
• The villages of Vasilikos and Keri
• Zakynthos Turtles

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Zakynthos

• Kalamaki Beach
• Porto Limnionas Bay
• Porto Vromi Bay
• Gerakas Beach
• Navagio Beach
• Banana Beach
• Laganas Beach
• Xigia Beach

→ Key Places on the Island of Zakynthos

• Zakynthos Town
• Laganas
• Vasilikos
• Alikanas
• Planos
• Kalamaki

Does Zakynthos have an airport?

Zakynthos Dionysios Solomos Airport (ZTH) is located just below Zakynthos Town. In the summer, direct flights to the popular Greek island of Zakynthos are offered from Frankfurt and Munich, among other cities.

Zakynthos Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Zakynthos is growing in popularity and is also ideal for island hopping in the Ionian Sea (Island Hopping in Greece). During the peak season, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance. Here you’ll find affordable deals, whether package tours or custom trips:

➲ View affordable Zakynthos package tours (Check24)*

➲ View beautiful Zakynthos hotels (Booking.com)*

#7 Kos: The Island of Hippocrates

Kos is ideal for: beach vacations, family vacations, first-time visitors to Greece, windsurfers and kiteboarders, cyclists and mountain bikers, history buffs

The island of Kos in the Eastern Aegean has been one of the most popular Greek islands for several decades. For us, our first vacation in Greece began here in 2009. Since then, we’ve been traveling to Greece for several weeks every year.

Kos has something to offer for virtually every type of vacationer. Families with children especially enjoy the miles-long sandy beaches, which slope very gently in the north.

History buffs wander among ancient ruins and marvel at the Asklepieion sanctuary. The island’s most significant archaeological site was built in honor of the famous physician Hippocrates, who was born on Kos.

But the island of Kos is far too beautiful to just lie on the beach. On a tour of Kos in your own rental car, you’ll discover charming mountain villages, enjoy breathtaking views from ancient castle ruins, or encounter wild peacocks in the Plaka woods on Kos.

End the evening in a quaint tavern on the Kefalos Peninsula or at one of the trendy beach bars on the north coast. A breathtaking sunset is included.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination of Kos

Learn even more about Kos in the following articles:

• Kos Island Travel Guide
• Best Kos Hotels
• Kos Beaches
• Kos Sights
• Kos Holiday

→ Popular Attractions in Kos

• Asklepieion of Kos
• Kos Town (City Center)
• Embros Thermal Springs
• Zia Mountain Village
• Kefalos Peninsula
• Beaches on the Isthmus of Kos
• Paleo Pyli Fortress
• Peacock Forest Plaka
• Agios Theologos

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Kos

• Bays around Agios Theologos
• Kavo Paradiso Beach
• Agios Stefanos Beach
• Marmari Beach
• Camel Beach
• Lagada Beach
• Magic Beach
• Paradise Beach
• Kochylari Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Kos

• Kos Town
• Marmari
• Kardamena
• Tigaki
• Kefalos
• Antimachia
• Psalidi
• Mastichari
• Zia

Does Kos have an airport?

Kos Hippocrates KGS Airport is located almost in the center of the island, near the town of Antimachia. It takes about 20 minutes to get from Kos Airport to Kos Town.

Kos Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Are you in the mood for a Kos vacation? Here you can compare affordable deals for Kos:

➲ View affordable Kos package tours (Check24)*

➲ View beautiful Kos hotels (Booking.com)*

#8 Kefalonia: The Island of Caves & Grottoes

Kefalonia is ideal for: beach vacations, sailors and yacht owners, windsurfers and kiteboarders, cyclists and mountain bikers, hiking and active vacations

Although Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands, it is not as well-known as Corfu. The island has so far avoided the large influx of tourists, and thus, with its dream beaches, it remains tranquil and ideal for independent travelers.

The island of Kefalonia boasts a diverse landscape, with its steep cliffs and dense coniferous forests being particularly striking. It is a paradise for hikers who wish to explore the secluded villages and wild nature, with its bizarre caves, on their own.

Myrtos Beach, with its white pebble shore and turquoise waters, surrounded by towering cliffs, has become a celebrity and graces nearly every travel brochure—sometimes even those for other islands.

No one leaves Kefalonia without visiting its unspoiled neighboring island, Ithaca. The island of Odysseus possesses a rugged beauty and shines with picturesque fishing villages, secluded swimming coves, and plenty of peace and quiet.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Kefalonia

→ Popular sights in Kefalonia

• Lake Melissani (Drogarati Cave)
• Argostoli Harbor
• Agios Gerasimos Monastery
• Enos National Park
• The village of Assos
• Drogarati Cave
• Ithaca Island

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Kefalonia

• Myrtos Beach
• Skala Beach
• Petani Beach
• Makris Gialos
• Antisamos Beach
• Emplisi Beach
• Xi Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Kefalonia

• Argostoli
• Sami
• Lixouri
• Skala
• Agia Efimia
• Svoronata
• Fiskardo

Does Kefalonia have an airport?

Kefalonia Airport Anna Pollatou (EFL) is located southeast of the island’s capital, Argostoli, right on the coast. During the peak season, there are direct flights from Munich and Frankfurt to Kefalonia.

Kefalonia Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Kefalonia has only a few package tour options, which tend to sell out quickly during the high season. You’ll want to act fast here. But you’ll also find plenty of accommodations for independent travel. You can compare offers here:

➲ Find affordable Kefalonia package tours (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Kefalonia hotels (Booking.com)*

#9 Naxos: The Green Island of the Cyclades

Naxos is ideal for: beach vacations, windsurfers and kiteboarders, history buffs, active travelers and hikers, family vacations

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and is located almost in the center of the archipelago. Above it lies Mykonos and slightly below it, the famous Santorini. As a result, many ferries and even cruise ships pass by it.

This is certainly one reason why the island has become increasingly popular in recent years. Naxos is a popular Greek beach destination with miles of sandy beaches where kitesurfers and surfers also enjoy the magnificent winds.

Hikers make their way through the mountain range up to the highest peak in the Cyclades. The vast plains of Naxos reveal a diverse landscape of olive groves and vineyards, dotted with ancient ruins and centuries-old monasteries and chapels.

Even though Naxos has seen an increasing number of tourists in recent years, it remains a destination for independent travelers who wish to discover the island’s beauty and diversity on their own.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Naxos

Click here for our articles:

• Naxos Sights
• Naxos Beaches

→ Popular sights in Naxos

• Naxos Old Town (Chora)
• Portara of Naxos
• Mountain Villages of Koronos and Apiranthos
• Kouros of Apollonas
• Temple of Sangri
• Alyko Cedar Forest

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Naxos

• Agia Anna Beach
• Plaka Beach
• Panormos Beach
• Agios Giorgos Beach
• Agios Prokopios Beach
• Pyrgaki Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Naxos

• Naxos Town
• Plaka
• Mikri Vigla
• Melanes
• Sangri
• Aperathos

Does Naxos have an airport?

Naxos Airport (JNX) is located approximately two kilometers from the main town of Chora. Currently (2021 season), there are no direct flights to Naxos from Germany. You can reach the island of Naxos via a layover at Athens Airport.

Naxos Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Are you looking for the right accommodation on Naxos? Especially during peak season, the best hotels and vacation homes book up quickly. Here you can directly compare suitable vacation deals for Naxos:

➲ Find affordable Naxos package tours (Check24)*

➲ Find beautiful Naxos hotels (Booking.com)*

#10 Paros: The Marble Island of the Cyclades

Paros is ideal for: couples, honeymoons, island hopping, beach vacations, partygoers and jet-setters, independent explorers

White cubic houses, cute cafés, and trendy bars, golden beaches, and secluded monasteries in the mountains—that’s Paros.

This small Cycladic island next to Naxos isn’t as crowded as its sisters Santorini and Mykonos, yet it’s growing in popularity because it offers the quintessential blue-and-white Greece.

The towns of Naoussa and Parikia have blossomed into true visitor magnets in recent years. The south and east of the island of Paros are still peaceful. A charming island that fits perfectly into an island-hopping itinerary.

A special feature of the island is Parian marble, which has been quarried here since ancient times. Today, you can visit the quarries in the north of the island.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Paros

Click here for our articles:

• Paros Sights
• Paros Beaches

→ Popular sights in Paros

• Parikia Old Town
• Panagia Ekatondapiliani
• Port of Naoussa
• Lefkes
• Andiparos Island

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Paros

• Lageri Beach
• Kolimbithres Beach
• Golden Beach
• Santa Maria Beach
• Martselo Beach
• Aliki Beach

→ Key Places on the Island of Paros

• Parikia
• Naoussa
• Angkeria
• Archilochos
• Marpissa
• Lefkes
• Kostos

Does Paros have an airport?

The small Paros Airport (PAS) is currently served only by scheduled flights from Athens. The capital, Athens, is now accessible from nearly all German airports. For many travelers, this brief stopover poses no problem when heading to the popular vacation destination of Paros.

Paros Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Paros can be wonderfully integrated into an island-hopping itinerary, e.g., with Mykonos or Naxos. Here you’ll find affordable accommodation deals for Paros:

➲ View affordable Paros package tours (Holidaycheck)*

➲ View beautiful Paros hotels (Booking.com)*

#11 Lefkada: The Island of White Cliffs

Lefkada is ideal for: beach vacations, surfers and kiteboarders, sailors and yacht owners, active travelers and hikers

Like Corfu, Zakynthos, and Kefalonia, the island of Lefkada is also located in the Ionian Sea and is a perfect summer vacation destination. The idyllic beaches are a feast for the eyes, where turquoise-blue sea meets white pebbles.

It’s no wonder that Lefkada’s beaches are the island’s trademark, attracting not only sunbathers but also kiteboarders and windsurfers. The most famous is Porto Katsiki Beach with its towering limestone cliffs.

But the interior of Lefkada also beckons with quaint villages, dense forests, and even impressive waterfalls, including those near Nydri.

Lefkada is particularly busy during the peak season. In addition to international tourists, many Greeks from the mainland now also come to the island for vacation.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Lefkada

Click here for our articles:

• Lefkada Sights
• Lefkada Town – 5 Key Facts
• Lefkada Beaches – Our Top 10

→ Popular sights in Lefkada

• Porto Katsiki
• Papanikolis Cave (Meganisi)
• Nydri Waterfalls
• Faneromeni Monastery
• Sivota Fishing Village

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Lefkada

• Milos Beach
• Egremni Beach
• Agiofilli Beach
• Kathisma Beach
• Mikros Gialos
• Pefkoulia Beach
• Ammoussa Beach
• Porto Katsiki Beach

→ Key Places on the Island of Lefkada

• Lefkada Town
• Nydri
• Vasiliki
• Sivota
• Agios Nikitas
• Nikiana

Does Lefkada have an airport?

Lefkada does not have its own airport. The city of Preveza, located 20 kilometers away on the Greek mainland, handles air traffic. Many hotels offer a shuttle service from Preveza Airport (PVK) to the island of Lefkada.

Lefkada Package Tours, Vacation Homes, and Hotels: Want to relax on the beaches of Lefkada? Find the perfect accommodation here:

➲ Find affordable Lefkada package tours (Holidaycheck)*

➲ Find beautiful Lefkada hotels (Booking.com)*

#12 Milos: The Island of Colors

Milos is ideal for: couples, independent travelers, beach vacations, island hopping

It’s no coincidence that Milos is also called the Island of Aphrodite. Its extraordinary and diverse landscape enchants many at first sight.

The bizarre rock formations of this Cycladic island are breathtaking and shimmer in a wide variety of colors. Due to their volcanic origin, Milos’ beaches glow in shades of red and brown.

The highlight of the island is the Sarakiniko coast; the white rock formations look surreal and, together with the emerald-green water, create a unique spectacle.

There are also impressive sea caves and charming fishing villages to discover. Milos’s “Little Venice,” with its distinctive Syrmata houses, is particularly beautiful. These were once colorful boathouses that have now been converted into vacation accommodations.

The island of Milos is also an ideal starting or ending point for a Western Cyclades island-hopping in combination with Sifnos, Serifos, and Folegandros.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Milos

Click here for our articles:

• Milos Sights
• Milos Beaches

→ Popular sights in Milos

• Milos Boathouses (Syrmata)
• Sarakiniko Coast
• Milos Roman Theater
• Venetian Kastro
• Kimolos Island
• Profitis Ilias Mountain
• Papafragas Cave

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Milos

• Agios Sostis Beach
• Sarakiniko Beach
• Kleftiko Bay
• Fyriplaka Beach
• Firopotamos Beach
• Paleochori Beach
• Plathiena Beach
• Pollonia Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Milos

• Milos Town
• Adamas
• Triovasalos
• Trypiti
• Apollonia

Does Milos have an airport?

Milos Airport (MLO) only serves domestic flights from Athens. Currently, there are no direct flights from Germany. You’ll need to plan a stopover in Athens to reach the beautiful vacation destination of Milos. Often, you can continue on to Milos the same day, or alternatively, plan a spontaneous Athens trip.

Milos Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Is Milos as a vacation destination fascinating you, and do you absolutely want to visit the island? There are no package tours for Milos! If you want to discover the island, there’s no way around planning a customized Greece vacation. Find out more here about the most beautiful accommodations on Milos:

➲ Beautiful Milos Hotels (Booking.com)*

#13 Skiathos: Island of 60 Beaches

Skiathos is ideal for: family vacations, couples, beach vacations, sailors and yacht owners, cyclists and mountain bikers

The island of Skiathos is a fairly small island in the North Aegean. Nevertheless, the island has become a popular vacation destination in Greece. After all, there are said to be over 60 beaches on Skiathos.

Perhaps the island’s popularity also stems from the fact that Skiathos, alongside Skopelos, was a filming location for the movie Mamma Mia! Within a short time, the two islands became virtually famous. During the summer, the nearly 6,000 residents are vastly outnumbered by tourists.

Like its neighboring island, Skiathos is lush and green thanks to dense pine forests. Well-marked hiking trails invite you to discover the beautiful natural surroundings

Gorgeous, miles-long beaches like Lalaria Beach have earned Skiathos the nickname “Greek Caribbean.” Many families are drawn here because the beaches, especially in the south, slope very gently and are thus ideal for small children.

In midsummer, Skiathos is popular with the jet set, when the international elite gathers on the island. The main town buzzes with nightlife, almost rivaling Mykonos.

The Northern Sporades are also a popular sailing destination. As a result, you’ll see many yachts off the coast of the island, which blend beautifully with the picturesque architecture of the villages.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Skiathos

Click here for our articles:

• Skiathos Sights
• Skiathos Beaches
• Skiathos Travel Tips

→ Popular sights in Skiathos

• Lalaria Coast
• Skiathos Old Town
• Bourtzi Fortress
• Panagia Evangelistria Monastery
• Kastro
• Lake Strofilia

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Skiathos

• Koukounaries Beach
• Mandraki Beach
• Tsougrias Beach
• Banana Beach
• Troulos Beach
• Agia Eleni Beach
• Kolios Beach

→ Key Places on the Island of Skiathos

• Skiathos Town
• Platanias
• Koukounaries
• Troulos

Does Skiathos have an airport?

Skiathos Airport Alexandros Papadiamantis JSI is located just above Skiathos Town. During the high season, direct flights are available from Munich, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart to Skiathos.

Skiathos Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Want to explore the beautiful vacation destination of Skiathos? Then check out these great accommodations for Skiathos here:

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#14 Thasos: The Green Emerald of the Aegean

Thasos is ideal for: nature lovers, hiking and active vacations, beach vacations, independent explorers, windsurfers

Thasos is the northernmost inhabited island in the Aegean Sea and lies just seven kilometers from the Greek mainland. Along with the Halkidiki Peninsula, the island of Thasos is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in Northern Greece.

Dense forests and a unique natural landscape featuring gorges and waterfalls stretch across the island. Along the coast, you’ll find magnificent beaches where windsurfers also enjoy themselves.

In addition, Thasos boasts a distinctive architectural style that can be explored in the island’s charming mountain villages.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Thasos

→ Popular sights in Thasos

• Giola Natural Pool
• Apostolus and Maries Waterfalls
• Ancient Agora
• Aliki Peninsula
• Mount Ipsarion
• Monastery of Archangel Michael

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Thasos

• Paradise Beach
• Psili Ammos
• Tripiti Beach
• Metalia Beach
• Golden Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Thasos

• Limenas
• Kallirachi
• Prinos
• Potamia
• Theologos
• Limenaria
• Panagia

Does Thasos have an airport?

The island of Thasos does not have its own airport. Direct flights to the nearby city of Kavala are currently available from Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, and Munich. You can reach Thasos by ferry from Kavala (Keramoti). The crossing takes only 30 minutes and shouldn’t be a barrier to visiting this beautiful Greek island. Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from Germany to Thessaloniki. With a shuttle transfer or bus and ferry, it takes about three hours to reach the island.

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#15 Samos: The blooming island of the Eastern Aegean

Samos is ideal for: hiking and active vacations, mountain bikers, first-time visitors to Greece, family vacations

This lush, green island in the Eastern Aegean is particularly popular with nature lovers who explore the mountainous island on its numerous hiking trails. Whether it’s the Potami Waterfalls or the cave church of Panagia Makrini, there’s always something to discover on Samos.

Authentic mountain villages and picturesque coastal towns, such as Kokkari, invite you to take a break while exploring the island. The village taverns serve delicious Greek home-style cooking and fine wine from the island.

The birthplace of the mathematician Pythagoras also has plenty to offer archaeologically. Particularly impressive is the Eupalinos Tunnel, which you can even walk through.

More info about the beautiful vacation destination Samos

Here we share our experiences from our time on Samos:

• Samos Sights
• Active vacation on Samos

→ Popular sights in Samos

• Eupalinos Tunnel
• Pythagoras Museum
• Temple of Hera
• Potami Waterfalls,
• Timiou Stavrou Monastery
• Nightingale Valley
• Samos Wineries

→ Beautiful beaches on the island of Samos

• Lemonakia Beach
• Potami Beach
• Livadaki Beach
• Tsamadou Beach
• Mikro Seitani Beach

→ Important Places on the Island of Samos

• Vathy
• Pythagorio
• Kokkari
• Karlovasi
• Kambos
• Manolates
• Platanos
• Vourliotes

Does Samos have an airport?

Samos’ Aristarchos SMI Airport is less than 10 minutes from the town of Pythagorio. During the summer season, there are several direct flights from Germany, including from Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich.

Samos Package Tours, Vacation Homes & Hotels: Want to discover the island of Samos? Samos offers both package tours and accommodations for independent travelers. Here you’ll find affordable deals on Samos:

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➲ Beautiful Samos hotels (Booking.com)*

Ranking of the Most Popular Islands in Greece

The ranking is based on the number of reviews for all Greek islands on the TripAdvisor platform. These overall reviews cover all types of establishments, including hotels, restaurants, attractions, museums, beaches, and much more. The more people visit the islands, the more reviews are available on TripAdvisor. The result is our popularity ranking of the Greek islands.

The most popular Greek islands according to TripAdvisor (as of 02/2026):

1. Crete
2. Rhodes
3. Santorini
4. Corfu
5. Mykonos
6. Zakynthos
7. Kos
8. Kefalonia
9. Naxos
10. Paros
11. Lefkada
12. Milos
13. Skiathos
14. Thasos
15. Samos
16. Ios
17. Karpathos
18. Skopelos
19. Hydra
20. Andros
21. Amorgos
22. Tinos
23. Syros
24. Patmos
25. Lesbos
26. Chios
27. Koufonisia
28. Antiparos
29. Serifos
30. Sifnos
31. Kythira
32. Paxos
33. Ikaria
34. Kythnos
35. Kalymnos
36. Leros
37. Astypalea
38. Limnos
39. Aegina
40. Poros
41. Folegandros
42. Skyros
43. Alonissos
44. Salamina
45. Ithaca

→ For a complete overview of the Greek islands and the individual islands, including a map, check out our article: Greek Islands Overview

FAQ on Popular Greek Islands

Which are the most popular Greek islands?

The five most popular Greek islands are Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos. They offer the most direct flights from Europe, attract many cruise tourists, and feature countless hotels in all price ranges.

Which is the most beautiful Greek island?

There isn’t just one most beautiful Greek island. Every Greek island is unique in its nature and its people. Due to the incredible diversity of the islands, everyone defines their favorite island differently.

Which Greek island is best for families?

Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, and Skiathos are ideal for a family vacation. They offer gently sloping sandy beaches, a variety of activities, and good tourist infrastructure with direct flights from Germany.

Which Greek island is best for a beach vacation?

Zakynthos, Lefkada, and Skiathos are perfect for beach vacations. Skiathos offers over 60 beaches, Zakynthos captivates with the famous Navagio Bay, and Lefkada with the stunning beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni.

Which Greek island is suitable for an active vacation?

Crete, Corfu, Kefalonia, and Samos are ideal for active vacations. They offer marked hiking trails, mountain villages, gorges, and diverse natural landscapes. Crete stands out for its famous Samaria Gorge.

Which Greek islands have an airport?

Crete (three airports), Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, Santorini, Zakynthos, Mykonos, Kefalonia, Naxos, Skiathos, Paros, Milos, Samos, and Thasos (via Kavala) have airports. Some of them offer direct flights from Germany during the peak season.

Which Greek island is best for island hopping?

Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros in the Cyclades are perfect for island hopping. In the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Lefkada are ideal. The ferry connections are well-developed.

Which Greek island is the quietest?

Kefalonia, Milos, Thasos, and Samos are quiet alternatives. They are less touristy than Santorini or Mykonos and, with their authentic villages, secluded beaches, and abundant nature, offer ideal conditions for independent explorers.

Which Greek island has the most beautiful beaches?

Lefkada with Porto Katsiki, Zakynthos with Navagio Beach, Crete with Balos and Elafonisi, and Milos with Sarakiniko are considered the islands with the most spectacular beaches. Each island captivates visitors with its unique beach landscapes.

How many Greek islands are there?

There are over 3,000 Greek islands, of which about 120 are inhabited. The archipelago stretches from the Ionian Sea in the west to the Aegean Sea in the south and east of Greece.

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