Which Greek Islands to Visit? - A Guide by Travel Style

Greece has over 200 inhabited islands. The choice can be overwhelming. This guide cuts through the options by matching islands to travel styles - so whether you're after a family beach holiday, a romantic escape, a party, a history trip or an adventure, you'll find the right island here.

For Families with Young Children

Best choice: Halkidiki (mainland peninsula), Thassos, Crete (north coast)

Halkidiki and Thassos are the easiest options for families driving from Serbia - no long ferry crossing, shallow sandy beaches, good value accommodation. Crete's north coast resorts (Hersonissos, Stalis, Analipsi) offer excellent family hotel infrastructure with pools and kids' clubs.

For a Romantic Escape

Best choice: Santorini, Paros, Corfu

Santorini's caldera sunsets are unbeatable for romance - though the crowds and prices may dampen the mood in peak season. Paros (particularly Naoussa) offers Cycladic beauty with a fraction of the stress. Corfu Town's Venetian atmosphere is equally romantic and more affordable.

For Parties and Nightlife

Best choice: Mykonos, Ios, Rhodes (Faliraki)

Mykonos is the undisputed king of Greek nightlife - world-class beach clubs, international DJs and a cosmopolitan crowd. Ios is smaller, more affordable and famous for its village nightlife. Rhodes' Faliraki strip offers a more mainstream party experience.

For History and Culture

Best choice: Rhodes, Crete, Delos (day trip from Mykonos)

Rhodes Old Town is the finest medieval city in the Eastern Mediterranean. Crete has Knossos (Minoan civilisation), Venetian Chania and a remarkable archaeological museum. Delos (uninhabited, day trip from Mykonos) is one of Greece's most important ancient sites.

For Nature and Hiking

Best choice: Crete (Samaria Gorge), Lefkada, Ikaria, Naxos

Crete's Samaria Gorge (18 km, one of Europe's longest) is the headline hike. Lefkada has dramatic western coast landscapes. Ikaria is wild, green and largely undeveloped. Naxos has Greece's highest peak (Mt Zas, 1,001 m) and excellent inland cycling and hiking.

For Windsurfing and Water Sports

Best choice: Paros (Golden Beach), Lefkada (Vassiliki), Naxos (Mikri Vigla)

Paros' Golden Beach is the most famous windsurfing spot in the Cyclades (consistent Meltemi winds). Vassiliki on Lefkada is one of Europe's premier windsurfing destinations. Naxos' Mikri Vigla beach attracts world-class kitesurfers.

For Avoiding Crowds

Best choice: Thassos, Sithonia (Halkidiki), Milos, Folegandros, Ikaria

Thassos and Sithonia offer excellent beaches with far fewer tourists than the famous islands. In the Cyclades, Milos (moon-landscape beaches), Folegandros (dramatic cliffs, tiny villages) and Ikaria (alternative culture, radon hot springs) are all significantly less visited than their neighbours.

Quick Comparison Table