The 6 Most Beautiful Islands In Greece: They’re Interesting Too!

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Last updated on April 8, 2023 by Wandering our World

With striking features and astounding scenery, Greece captures the heart of all who visit. It has rich history, impressive architecture, breathtaking turquoise waters and exquisite cuisine – what more could you want? And it’s all begging to be explored!

What makes Greece even more captivating is that there are over 6000 Greek islands and islets in the Ionian and Aegean Seas, of which 227 are populated.

After visiting many of them, we just had to put together our own list of the prettiest islands in Greece!

Here’s our top six, all of which have more to offer than just a stunning landscape and coastline:

Santorini houses
iStock.com/Ihor_Tailwaind

1. Mykonos

Mykonos has been alluring international travelers since the 1960s, and no wonder.

Consistently voted as a top holiday location thanks to its stunning beaches, excellent food experiences, exclusive villas, and outstanding night life, Mykonos is the ideal getaway for couples, friends, and families looking for a thrill-packed holiday.

Renowned for the stunning traditional windmills found in Little Venice, we also believe that the magical sunsets in Mykonos are unrivalled in Greece – at least from our own experience.

As part of the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, gorgeous Mykonos is also perfectly located for island hopping to nearby islands like Naxos and Paros.

The beautiful labyrinth streets of Chora, picturesque hotel stays, memorable beach parties, and exotic turquoise water of Mykonos firmly makes it one of the prettiest islands in Greece!

Port with old fishing boats and the waterfront in Mykonos Islang, Greece
iStock.com/zoom-zoom

2. Santorini

Originating from a volcanic eruption in 17th century B.C., Santorini’s explosive beginning seems a far cry from its serene existence now.

Beautifully located on the southern side of the Aegean Sea, expect captivating sunsets, iconic whitewashed houses, and some of the most extraordinary sea views throughout Greece.

However Santorini’s unique beauty is really down to the myriad of landscapes here.

From magnificent centuries-old architecture and towns, black-sand beaches, rocky outcrops and vertigo-inducing cliffs, to the breathtaking sunset you’ll experience in Oia.

All of which makes Santorini a stand out holiday destination.

A woman in a white dress stands by the swimming pool and enjoys the view over the illuminated village of Oia, Santorini island, Greece, during summer sunset time
iStock.com/SHansche

3. Naxos

With ruins from several eras scattered around what can only be described as a majestic landscape, coupled with the amazing food you’ll experience here, Naxos has it all.

While it’s the largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is often bypassed by tourists – but that’s what makes it so worth visiting.

This island offers a different vibe than the more famous islands, with open spaces, rural villages untouched by time (and tourists), and long stretches of remote beach.

All of which makes Naxos one of Greece’s prettiest islands, and the perfect retreat for families, couples and even friends.

Naxos is a great spot for water based activities too. We also recommend hiring quad bikes or scooters – it’s one of the best way to explore this quaint island.

Naxos, Greek Islands. Sunny summer landscape with rocky island, Cyclades in Greece.
iStock.com/Emicristea

4. Sifnos

Known for some of the best culinary experiences throughout the Greek islands, cuisine-rich Sifnos is also highly praised for its relaxed vibe – making it the perfect retreat for any foodie.

With fabulous white-sand beaches, charming chapels, dovecotes, stunning hillsides and pristine landscapes, this island is a must visit!

We recommend visiting the fascinating villages of Kastro and Artemona, whilst the largest city on the island, Apollonia, has many accommodation options.

While Sifnos definitely deserves to be on any list of the prettiest Greek islands, it’s major strong point are the renowned restaurants and taverns that serve arguably the best local dishes in Greece – alongside some of the best views.

View of Kamares village from the church of Agios Symeon."n
iStock.com/milangonda

5. Zakynthos/Zante

The breathtaking beauty of Zakynthos is summed up by Shipwreck Bay, which contrasts chalk white cliffs with the gorgeous turquoise hues of the lapping waves below.

This stunning holiday destination is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s not hard to see why. There’s so many activities and opportunities to reconnect with nature here – such as water sports, snorkelling, hiking, and others.

We also love the variety that Zakynthos – aka Zante – offers.

From the famous party scene at Laganas and Kalamaki to the rugged wild mountains, and serene beaches which are some of the world’s most substantial breeding grounds for Caretta Caretta turtles.

With its iconic coves, great hiking spots, a fun party scene and rustic taverns, Zante easily makes our list of the prettiest islands in Greece.

Zante beach
iStock.com/CalinStan

6. Delos

It’s not one of the most well-known Greek islands, but Delos holds a crucial place in ancient Greek history as its considered the birthplace of the god Apollo.

As such, this island can boast countless remnants from ancient Greece.

Famous for the Museum of Delos, with its array of ancient Greek mosaics, artefacts and sculptures, a visit here will expose you to one of the finest collections worldwide.

However whilst this island’s beauty is partly derived from its history-making past, we were also captivated by the panoramic views that are available from climbing Delos’ highest point- Mt Kythnos.

It may be a mere 133m above sea level, but the spectacular views from the top of the neighbouring islands forming a circle around Delos will stay with you forever.

That landscape, coupled with Doric temples, the amphitheater, eye-catching mosaics and the world renowned Terrace of the Lions statues, make Delos one of the most beautiful islands in Greece.

Recommended For Your Trip To The Prettiest Islands In Greece

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.