What are the best islands to visit in Greece and how to get there?

Posted on by GoGreeceNow

Greece is a country blessed with more than 200 inhabited islands, each with its own unique charms, attractions and history. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, a cultural immersion or a natural wonder, there is an island for you in Greece. But with so many options, how do you choose which one to visit? And how do you get there?

In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the best islands to visit in Greece in 2023, according to various sources and criteria. We will also give you some practical tips on how to get there from the mainland or other islands. So grab your sun hat and sunglasses, and get ready to explore the amazing diversity of the Greek islands.

Santorini

Santorini is probably the most famous and popular of all the Greek islands, and for good reasons. This stunning archipelago in the southern Aegean Sea is the result of a massive volcanic eruption that created a caldera (a crater filled with water) surrounded by steep cliffs and colorful villages. Santorini is the ultimate destination for honeymooners and first-timers who want to experience the iconic views of whitewashed houses with blue-domed roofs, dramatic sunsets over the sea, and black and red sand beaches.

But Santorini is not just about romance and beauty. It also has a rich history and culture, dating back to the ancient civilization of Akrotiri that was preserved under layers of ash by the volcanic eruption. You can visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri and learn more about this fascinating culture that flourished more than 3,500 years ago. You can also sample some of the finest wines in Greece, made from the indigenous Assyrtiko grapes that grow on the volcanic soil. Santorini has several wineries that offer tours and tastings, such as Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries.

If you want to get closer to the volcano that shaped Santorini, you can take a boat trip to the smoldering crater of Nea Kameni and swim in the hot springs of Palia Kameni. You can also hike along the caldera rim from Fira to Oia, passing through picturesque villages and enjoying breathtaking views along the way.

How to get there: Santorini has an international airport that connects it with Athens and several European cities. You can also take a ferry from Piraeus (the main port of Athens) or other islands such as Crete, Mykonos, Naxos and Paros. The ferry ride takes between 3 to 8 hours depending on the route and speed.

Where to stay: Santorini has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and villas to budget hostels and guesthouses. Most of them are located in Oia and Imerovigli, where you can enjoy the best views of the caldera. Some of our recommendations are:

Corfu

Corfu is one of the most beautiful and diverse islands in Greece, located in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of the mainland. It has a long and rich history, influenced by various cultures such as Venetian, French and British, who left their mark on its architecture, cuisine and music. Corfu Town, the capital of the island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts elegant buildings, museums, palaces and churches. You can wander around its narrow cobblestone streets, known as “kandounia”, visit its landmarks such as the Old Fortress and the Liston promenade, and enjoy its lively nightlife.

But Corfu is not only about culture and urban charm. It also has some of the most stunning beaches and landscapes in Greece, with turquoise waters, golden sands, lush greenery and dramatic cliffs. You can relax at popular resorts such as Paleokastritsa, Sidari and Agios Gordios, or explore hidden gems such as Myrtiotissa, Issos and Halikounas. You can also go hiking, biking, horse riding or golfing in the countryside, or take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos.

How to get there: Corfu has an international airport that connects it with Athens and several European cities. You can also take a ferry from Igoumenitsa (the main port of Epirus) or other islands such as Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Lefkada. The ferry ride takes between 1 to 3 hours depending on the route and speed.

Where to stay: Corfu has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and villas to budget hostels and guesthouses. Most of them are located along the coast, but you can also find some charming options in the inland villages. Some of our recommendations are:

Paros

Paros is one of the most central and accessible islands in the Cyclades, and a great base for island-hopping. It is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, as it offers ideal conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, scuba diving and boating. You can find some of the best spots for these activities at its sandy beaches, such as Golden Beach, Santa Maria and Pounda. Paros also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs and parties that cater to all tastes and budgets.

But Paros is not only about fun and adventure. It also has a charming and authentic character, with traditional villages, whitewashed churches and ancient monuments. You can visit the picturesque town of Naoussa, with its fishing port, castle and maze-like alleys. You can also explore the capital of Parikia, where you can see the impressive church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Our Lady of the Hundred Doors) and the archaeological museum. And don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby island of Antiparos, where you can admire the stunning stalactites and stalagmites of its famous cave.

How to get there: Paros has a regional airport that connects it with Athens. You can also take a ferry from Piraeus (the main port of Athens) or other islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos and Syros. The ferry ride takes between 2 to 5 hours depending on the route and speed.

Where to stay: Paros has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and villas to budget hostels and guesthouses. Most of them are located near the beaches or the towns, but you can also find some secluded options in the countryside. Some of our recommendations are:

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