Explore the Greek Islands: A Practical, Step‑by‑Step Travel Guide
There’s so much of the Greek Islands to go around! So to help you out, we’re breaking it down. Follow our quick and easy guide to the Greek Islands, and you’ll see for yourself that exploring has never been so simple.
Top 5 favourite destinations in the Greek Islands
Since there are plenty of Greek Islands to choose from, let’s start with our favourite five. The top five that we swear by and completely fall in love with again and again.
Crete – The largest of the islands and perhaps the most popular, Crete definitely makes it into our top five. Home to delicious and unique Cretan cuisine, and also interesting history, families love it, couples love it, well… to be honest, everyone loves Crete. It’s the perfect Greek all rounder!
Corfu – This gem can be found off the northwest coast of Greece, in the Ionian Sea. Boasting rugged landscapes and Venetian, French and British influences, Corfu is in a league of its own.
Zante – Just think… the tranquil blue hues of Navagio Beach, precious sea turtles making their way to nest and the lively nightlife of Laganas. Zante is a place where families, couples and clubbers can find something to love.
Rhodes – If you’re looking to combine your all inclusive beach holidays with day trips to ancient sites, then Rhodes is the island for you. It’s the ideal Greek combo!
Santorini – And then, there’s something for loved up couples. Santorini, often chosen for its romantic charm, stunning whitewashed scenery and fascinating landscapes, is perfect for honeymoons and couples breaks.
Top 4 beaches to visit in the Greek Islands
When heading to the Greek Islands, it’s only right to lap up the waves at the beach. But with so many beauties on a variety of islands, which are the best Greek beaches to visit?
Navagio Beach, Zante – Otherwise known as Shipwreck Beach or Smuggler’s Cove, this beach is only accessible via boat and boasts azure waters and golden sand. But it’s also a pretty unique beach as there’s a decrepit shipwreck on shore.
Elafonisi Beach, Crete – The clearest of clear waters can be found here, as well as dreamy pink sand. Sounds like bliss!
Lindos Beach, Rhodes – Expect turquoise waters and an amazing view of the Lindos Acropolis which overlooks the sea.
Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia – One of the most photographed beaches in the Greek Islands, not many sandy shores can come close to Myrtos Beach.
Top 3 Greek dishes to try in the Greek Islands
The Greeks are proud of their delectable cuisine. Packed with flavour and punch, there’s loads of tasty treats to try.
Moussaka – A Greek version of a lasagne, this dish is filled with ground meat, aubergine and/or potato and creamy béchamel sauce. Delicious and filling!
Gyros – Perfect as a quick snack on the go, or a proper sit down meal, Greek gyros are heavenly. Meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie placed in a pita, alongside onions, lettuce, tomatoes, sauce and chips… mmm! If you’re lucky you might get some tangy tzatziki in it too.
Feta Me Meli – The appetising entrée you simply have to order. It’s a filo pastry with feta inside, which is then oven baked and topped off with a drizzle of honey. Sweet, salty… it makes for a mouth-watering combination.
Top 2 once-in-a-lifetime things to do in the Greek Islands
As you can imagine, there’s a long, long list of amazing things to do on these islands. But if we have to narrow it down to just two…
Hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete – This is a great day out for nature lovers. The second largest canyon in Europe, the Samaria Gorge is quite a sight to see. Walking along the entirety of it will take around seven hours, so choose a trek which sounds right for you!
Go turtle spotting in Zante – Known locally as Caretta Caretta turtles, these Loggerhead turtles can be found on Turtle Island, otherwise known as Marathonisi. As they’re currently an endangered species, it truly is a special moment to see them up close. The best time to see them is between May and October.
Top romantic moment not to be missed in the Greek Islands
If you end up taking your loved one to the Greek Islands for a peaceful getaway. Make sure to soak up this unforgettable moment…
Watch the sunset in Santorini – Whether you love the beautiful views that Santorini has to offer, or maybe you’re just a sucker for mesmerising sunsets, this Greek Island is known for its sunset extravaganzas. Holidaymakers head to the village of Oia for the chance to witness this natural beauty. And we totally recommend that you do too. Watch the sunny glow slowly sink into the caldera and sea, or head out on a sunset cruise for an up close and personal look at the caldera whilst the sun goes down.
