The 5 Most Popular Greek Islands: What are They Like?

Greece is home to 6,000 islands, around 200 of which are inhabited. Choosing which one to visit can be a daunting task; they’re all beautiful and well worth your time.

Believe us, the most visited Greek islands are popular for a reason. Tourists from all over the world flock there for their golden sandy beaches, wonderful hotels and restaurants, quaint old towns, and lush green landscapes.

However, not everything is perfect. Tourist numbers have risen sharply in recent years, and it’s getting harder to find a peaceful spot under the sun. We’ll help you understand when and how to visit the islands so you can make the most of your trip.

Crete

Crete is the largest and, according to many, the most beautiful Greek island. Some of the country’s most stunning beaches are here, including Elafonisi, Balos, Preveli, and Vai. Knossos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, is also located here.

Beyond its beaches, Crete is home to some of the country’s most charming cities and towns. It also boasts one of Greece’s most impressive natural wonders: the Samaria Gorge. That’s why Crete is a great destination for the whole family.

You can visit Crete year-round. In summer, you can swim in the sea, but be prepared for crowds, especially in the central and western parts. If you’re into culture, plan your trip during the quieter months.

Santorini

Santorini is Greece’s most photographed island. You’ve probably seen pictures of its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and cute windmills perched on cliffs. That’s the island’s iconic caldera.

On Santorini, dramatic landscapes blend beautifully with classic Cycladic architecture. The island also has several unique beaches covered in volcanic black sand. It’s ideal for sunsets and romantic getaways.

We advise against visiting Santorini in summer. It becomes extremely crowded, with long queues at most attractions. Instead, go in winter to experience its unique atmosphere without the crowds.

Mykonos

Mykonos is the place to see and be seen. Celebrities and trendsetters come here for their summer holidays. No wonder, the island is home to some of the best bars and clubs in Greece.

Another reason people love Mykonos is its many sandy beaches. Don’t miss the charming old town and the archaeological site of Delos, just a short boat ride away. Mykonos is especially popular with the LGBTQ+ community.

It’s a beautiful island, but like Santorini, it gets uncomfortably overcrowded in summer. If you want to swim, you’ll need to visit during the warmer months. We recommend June or September, when it’s still warm but less busy.

Rhodes

Rhodes is another island rich in history. Its capital, Rhodes Town, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Lindos, a picturesque town with an ancient acropolis, is also a must-see.

When it comes to beaches, Rhodes doesn’t disappoint. The entire eastern coast is lined with long sandy beaches and excellent resorts, making it especially popular with families and history lovers.

Since the beaches are among the island’s main attractions, summer is the best time to visit. Try to avoid July and August due to the crowds. May and October are great alternatives — warm enough for swimming, but much more relaxed. And if you prefer quiet, winter is perfect.

Corfu

The last island on our list is unique for two reasons. First, it was under Venetian rule for centuries, and its Italian heritage is still visible, especially in stunning Corfu Town.

Second, it’s one of the greenest Greek islands, with lush hills and mountains. Corfu belongs to the Ionian Islands, which are known for their dense forests. The island is a bit wild, and many of its beaches are secluded.

Corfu is slightly less crowded than the previous four, making summer a good time to visit. That said, the capital is worth visiting on its own and remains vibrant all year round.

How to Visit the Popular Islands

Greece is a relatively small country, and many popular islands are close enough to visit together. The easiest option is Santorini and Mykonos. They’re connected by regular ferries in just over two hours.

Another option is to combine Crete with Santorini and/or Mykonos. Several ferries run between them: the trip from Santorini to Crete takes about two hours, and from Mykonos to Crete about five.

To reach Rhodes or Corfu, flying is the best option. In summer, there are direct flights to both from Heraklion (Crete), so you can combine them in one trip. Otherwise, be sure to check out our post about lesser-known Greek islands. They’re equally stunning!

We use Ferryhopper to check prices and book our ferry tickets across Greece.