Everyone searches for the best Greek islands to visit — and most lists start with Santorini or Mykonos. But those aren’t your only options.

There’s an entire constellation of Greek islands out there — and some of them might be (let’s face it, probably are) a better fit for the kind of trip you actually want to take.

Whether you’re looking for slow travel, fewer tourists, or just something a little more surprising, here are eight Greek islands worth considering — including a few you may not have heard of… until now.

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1. Antiparos – Quiet Luxury for the Camera-Shy

Just across from Paros but a world apart, Antiparos draws a low-key crowd — including Tom Hanks, who summers here in a private villa. The island has a discreet, barefoot elegance: whitewashed lanes, peaceful coves, and a small town where no one makes a fuss. You can drive the whole island in under an hour, stopping for grilled octopus or a swim in a tucked-away bay.
Where to Stay: The Rooster

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2. Sifnos – Food, Pottery, and a Perfect Pace

Sifnos is a favorite among Greeks who know where to go. Think quiet walking trails, traditional villages, and over 200 churches. The island is also a culinary standout — the birthplace of Greece’s first celebrity chef, and still a haven for food lovers.
Where to Stay: Verina Astra

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3. Milos – For When You’re Serious About Going to Greece

With over 70 beaches and surreal volcanic landscapes, Milos is one of the most photogenic islands in Greece. You’ll find moonlike cliffs, caves only reachable by boat, and brightly painted fishing huts on the shoreline.
Where to Stay: Skinopi Lodge

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4. Hydra – Car-Free, Artistic, and Greek to Me

Just 90 minutes from Athens, Hydra is a longtime favorite of artists and architects. No cars are allowed — just donkeys, boats, and footpaths. Come for the harbor views, stay for the galleries and long lunches.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hydra (not part of the hotel chain)

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5. Naxos – A Strong Favorite

Golden beaches, inland villages, and a still-working agricultural economy make Naxos feel more grounded than its glitzier neighbors. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or anyone looking for an easygoing escape.
Where to Stay: Nissaki Beach Hotel

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6. Crete – Ancient, Layered, and Interestingly the Most Visited of the Islands

Crete is its own world — a tapestry of ruins, mountains, coastal cities, and world-class food. It works as a standalone trip or as the base for a longer island itinerary.
Where to Stay: Domes of Elounda or a boutique stay in Chania
My clients often tell me Crete was their favorite stop.

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7. Folegandros – Small, Steep, and Often Skipped

Perched high above the Aegean, Folegandros feels like the Greek Isles before Instagram. It’s compact, dramatic, and ideal for travelers who want to slow down and unplug.
Where to Stay: Anemomilos Boutique Hotel

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8. Patmos – You’ll Thank Me Later

Patmos has long drawn a quieter crowd — a mix of the deeply devout and the deeply discerning. It’s home to the impressive Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, but it’s also just… charming. Understated shops, peaceful beaches, and welcoming tavernas… perfection.
Where to Stay: Petra Hotel & Suites — family-run, beautifully kept, and consistently named one of the best small hotels in Greece.

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Planning Tips for Island-Hopping in Greece

• Best Time to Visit: Late May to early June, or September into early October
• Getting Around: Ferries between nearby islands, short flights for longer hops
• How Many Islands to Visit: Two or three is often plenty — smart pairings beat long checklists
• Recommended Pairings:
  • Santorini + Folegandros
  • Naxos + Paros
  • Crete + Patmos (or just Crete on its own)

This isn’t the kind of trip you want to improvise. With the right planning, island-hopping in Greece can feel like a dream — and not the kind that everyone else is already posting about.

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Need help planning your Greek island escape?

Let’s design a trip that skips the obvious and feels like it was made just for you.

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About the Author

Karen Aikman is the founder of Live LARGE Travel, where she personally designs custom travel experiences tailored to her clients’ unique preferences. A seasoned traveler with a deep passion for exploration, she shares insider tips, expert insights, and destination inspiration both here on the Live LARGE Travel blog and across various platforms.

Whether you’re dreaming of a bucket-list adventure or a seamless luxury getaway,
click here to schedule a call with Karen and start crafting your next unforgettable journey.