This year, many are hoping to escape the horrors of the last two years and absorb all that Greece has to offer. This is a list of the top six (yes, 6) islands that you MUST VISIT if you’ve booked a flight to Europe this summer.
- NAXOS
Naxos is the biggest Cycladic island. You arrive in Naxos by ship from Piraeus port and you’ll recognise the island by its characteristic monument which is Portara, a big monument similar to a gate. To clarify, this is the Temple of Apollo. In Naxos, you will certainly find wonderful places and luxury hotels to stay in. Further, it is considered a family-friendly island as you can easily find a lot of sandy beaches where you can spend your daytime with your kids.
Moreover, you have the chance to visit several museums and archaeological sites. For example, you can pay a visit to the castle of Naxos. This is a place that you will certainly love mostly because you will feel like traveling to past times. Finally, if you are a meat-lover, remember that Naxos is famous for its livestock and fine meat dishes.
Click here for ALL the best Naxos has to offer.
2. KEFALONIA
Kefalonia was the homeland of the mythical king Odysseus. It is located in the Ionian Sea. As a big island that it is, you will certainly love long road trips. Most important, each island destination is unique. Long beaches with crystal clear waters await you. So, it’s up to you to choose your favourite beach where you will spend your daytime.
Above all, don’t miss the chance to visit Melissani Cave. To clarify, it is a cave on the sea and you go there by boat. It is certainly a unique experience. That is to say, it is a must-see place. You will be amazed by this impressive natural landscape. Therefore, it is one of the top islands to visit in Greece.
Click here for a tourists guide of what to do in Kefalonia.
3. CORFU
Another Ionian island is Corfu. It is located in the northern Ionian Sea and you can arrive there by airplane. In Corfu, you will certainly love the old town with Venetian architecture. When you walk in this town, you feel like you are in a different era. Not only this, but in Corfu, you will also enjoy long road trips. That is to say, you can arrive at wonderful beaches after amazing drives.
Most important, in Corfu, you will never feel bored. To clarify, you have the chance to participate in different activities. For example, you may want to do some watersports. Moreover, cooking or ceramic classes are often organised for people who are interested in learning something new and different.
Click here for the best things to do in Corfu.
4. ZAKYNTHOS
Coming back to the Ionian Sea visiting Zakynthos. Zakynthos is one of the most popular island destinations for spending the summer holidays. Above all, there are several wonderful places to visit. Most of them are really impressive. Therefore, check out my article on Where to Stay in Zakynthos so you can find the perfect hotel!
Most importantly, apart from the beautiful beaches with turquoise seawater, you have the chance to visit unique landscapes. In other words, if you choose to travel to Zakynthos, then you have to visit the Shipwreck beach and the Blue Caves. The scenery is amazing and you will certainly enjoy swimming in this crystal clear water. Finally, remember to have an excursion in order to meet the Caretta-caretta turtles.
Click here for a tour guide for Zakynthos.
5. KOS
Kos is one of the biggest islands located in the Dodecanese. It has a really long history. To clarify, the “Father of Medicine”, Hippocrates was born here. So, if you visit Kos, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the most historic places in Greece, Asklepion. This is the place where Hippocrates was teaching medicine in ancient times.
Further, in Kos, you will enjoy swimming in amazing seawater and admire the long beaches. Keep in mind that Kos is located directly opposite the popular Bodrum in Turkey. This means that you can easily visit this place by taking a day trip.
Click here for things to do in Kos.
6. IOS
Famous for its amazing beaches and lively party scene, Ios is a popular Cycladic island destinations among the youth! In addition to its nightlife, Ios has many more less known aspects to offer, from beaches with shimmering waters to picturesque cliff top villages with narrow alleys and more!
While planning your trip to Ios, make sure to check out the information available in our travel guide. Browsing through our guide, you will find everything you need to know about the island, including must-do activities, must-visit beaches, hotels for your stay, best restaurants and a collection of photos from various locations around the island!
Ios is easy to reach by ferry from Athens and more specifically, the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. It is also connected to many other islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros and Crete, creating an opportunity for island hopping you simply can’t miss! The closest international airport in on Santorini island.
