Ready for an island vacation? Then Greece is your absolute dream destination! In the azure waters of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, around 3,000 islands await you, of which only about 115 are inhabited. Even the Greeks themselves don’t know exactly how many islands there really are and how many of them are actually inhabited. But one thing is for sure: there are too many to visit them all!
Catharina’s top 5 islands in Greece
If you don’t know where to start planning your Greek island vacation, be sure to read on! We asked our Greece expert, Catharina Fläming, about her favorites. In this article, she tells us which five Greek islands are the most beautiful for her: “For anyone who likes to get away from the crowds of tourists and longs for an authentic Greek experience, these are my top 5 islands in Greece.”
1. Kefalonia
The largest island off the west coast of Greece has many special features: Mount Enos, at 1,682 meters (5,518 feet) is the highest peak of the Ionian Islands and is also the only national park in Greece that is not on the mainland. The extremely rare Kefalonia fir grows here and there is a large population of wild horses.
On Kefalonia you’ll find one of the most beautiful cliffs in Greece, and from the panoramic road you can enjoy spectacular views of places like Assos and the breathtaking Myrtos Beach. A huge cave system stretches underground, including the Melissani Cave, which is one of the island’s main attractions. You can explore it in a rowboat. The sunlight creates magical plays of color on the water. Picturesque harbor towns like Fiskardo invite you to relax.
On our island-hopping trip by bike and boat in the Ionian Islands, you’ll stop off on Kefalonia for a day and also experience other gorgeous places in this archipelago, such as the stunningly beautiful island of Ithaca, the mountainous Lefkas or the olive island of Paxos.
2. Alonissos
Alonissos, a jewel of the Sporades, fascinates with the pure beauty of nature. Lush green landscapes and pristine beaches with crystal-clear water make the island a paradise for outdoor activities. Here you can relax and unwind.
A visit to Palaia Chora is an absolute must. This typical Greek village is hidden in the mountains. Thanks to careful restoration, the place has retained its original charm. Cozy taverns invite you to enjoy the Greek way of life. The breathtaking views of the sea and the spectacular sunsets – among the most beautiful in the Aegean – are free of charge.
If you want to experience this island bliss, we warmly recommend the tour to the Mamma Mia Islands by e-bike and boat. This trip takes you not only to Alonissos, but also to other picturesque islands that have become famous thanks to Hollywood – a wonderful vacation week in Greece.
3. Sifnos
Sifnos, one of the most enchanting Cycladic islands, is known for its colorful pottery. In the port town of Kamares, you can admire the colorful works of art and buy souvenirs in several show pottery workshops. Kamares also has one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island. Enjoy a drink in the Old Captain Bar, feel the sand under your feet and relax.
Sifnos is also ideal for hiking enthusiasts. The historic island paths have only recently been cleared and marked, so that a well-signposted hiking network over 200 km (124 mi) long is now available. You can find all the information on the Sifnos Trail website.
Is traditional Cycladic architecture more your thing? Then you must visit the village of Kastro, the uncrowned queen of the island. Winding alleys, windmills, square white houses with flat roofs and blue doors and shutters, a little church in the middle of the sea – in Kastro the Cycladic cliché is real, and it’s beautiful.
Sifnos can only be reached by ferry or speedboat from Piraeus.
4. Nisyros
According to Greek mythology, the island of Nisyros was formed during a battle between Poseidon and the giant Polybotes. The sea god grabbed a rock from the island of Kos and threw it at Polybotes. The rock buried the giant alive and formed the island of Nisyros. Every time the wounded man rears up and groans, Nisyros is shaken by an earthquake or volcanic eruption.
In fact, Nisyros is of volcanic origin and offers a unique landscape with extraordinary flora and fauna. Its geological formations in a variety of colors contrast with the white houses in the towns of Mandraki and Nikia. From Nikia you have a breathtaking view of the steaming Stefanos crater. The main square of Nikia is decorated with pebble mosaics and is one of the most beautiful in the Aegean. You can also find magnificent mosaics made of pebbles in Mandraki, where you should definitely visit the Panagia Spiliani monastery, nestled against a rock.
Do you feel like exploring the island of Nisyros with Boat Bike Tours? Then the Greek Aegean South Bike & Boat Tour is just the thing for you. On this trip you will also get to know the South Aegean islands of Kos, Symi, Tilos and Chalki.
5. Hydra
The island of Hydra is the pearl of the Saronic Gulf. Even though its name means “water” in ancient Greek, Hydra has the smallest water reserves in the archipelago and is also the most mountainous island in this region. These two characteristics have protected Hydra from mass tourism despite its extraordinary beauty.
Hydra is completely car-free. To this day, there are no cars, mopeds or bicycles. People get around on foot or by donkey, which makes Hydra unique and incredibly quiet.
The main town of Hydra is shaped like an amphitheater on steep mountain slopes. Exploring the picturesque alleys and exclusive boutiques or swimming in the crystal-clear sea will make your day fly by. There are many hiking trails, and if you only want to walk one way, you can hike from Hydra to Vlychos beach and return by taxi boat.
On the Peloponnese & Saronic Islands bike & boat trip, besides Hydra, you’ll visit the islands of Aegina, Poros and Spetses. You’ll also get to know parts of the Peloponnese coast, including Nafplio and the legendary Mycenae.
Discover all Boat Bike Tours in Greece
Island hopping is the thing to do in the Greek islands! It’s an unforgettable experience full of blue and white island dreams, ancient culture, special bike tours through Mediterranean nature areas, culinary delights and wonderfully warm sunshine. Click here to see all of Boat Bike Tours’ Greece trips.
How can we help you?
If you would like to receive more information about our trips or need support from our travel experts to help you choose your trip, please feel free to contact us. Write an email to [email protected] or by calling +1 (203) 814-1249.
We look forward to hearing from you!
