Greek Island Guide
Did you know Greece has six THOUSAND islands? We can’t see all 227 of the inhabited ones in one trip, but if you could use some Mediterranean sun and sea (and who couldn’t), check out this Greek island guide from Greece expert, Rosie. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
My name is Rosie, and I’m a proud native Chicagoan, where my husband and I currently live. Coming from a diverse cultural background myself, I feel incredibly lucky to have married into a wonderful Greek family. My husband Tim’s family is originally from a small village near Trikala, nestled in the heart of central Greece, and later immigrated to Canada, where they built a new life while holding on to their rich Greek traditions. My husband left Canada at 18 to pursue his dream of becoming a professional soccer player. Over his 8-year journey, he lived in several places across Greece including Kalabaka, Athens, and Thessaloniki, and even served in the Greek army. These experiences have given him a profound connection to Greece and its culture, which he has shared with me since we started dating in 2020.
Lefkada
Lefkada is a hidden gem in the Ionian Sea, known for its pristine sandy beaches and stunning milky blue waters. It’s perfect for any beach lover. The island's Venetian history shines through in its charming towns giving it a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth.
Lefkada is also surrounded by other gorgeous Ionian islands like Corfu, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town; Kefalonia, famous for its rugged landscapes and Venetian fortresses; and Zakynthos, home to the iconic Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach. What makes Lefkada special is its accessibility—it’s connected to the mainland by a bridge, so no ferry is needed. It’s about a 4.5-hour drive from Athens, making it one of the most convenient island getaways.
Naxos
Naxos will always hold a special place in our hearts because it was one of the islands we visited on our honeymoon. It’s a romantic island known for having some of the best food in Greece—I’m still dreaming about the Naxos Gruyère cheese! Naxos is also home to the Temple of Apollo, or the Portara, a massive marble doorway that remains from an unfinished 6th-century BC temple dedicated to Apollo.
Positioned on a small islet near Naxos town, the Portara offers stunning views especially at sunset. To get to Naxos, you can take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina ports) or nearby Cycladic islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros, with regular connections. Alternatively, a quick 45-minute flight from Athens is another option.
Milos
Fresh seafood is a staple of Greek cuisine, and this photo of an octopus drying in the sun on Milos captures one of my favorite culinary traditions. As you stroll through the island’s small fishing villages, you’ll often see octopus hanging outside tavernas, waiting to be grilled to perfection. It’s a perfect reminder of how connected Greek food is to the land and sea, and how every meal celebrates the freshness of the Mediterranean.
You can get there by ferry from Athens (Piraeus port) or nearby islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos, or by a short 40-minute flight from Athens.
Koufonisia
Koufonisia is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets! It’s made up of two islands: Pano Koufonisia, the more developed one, with its charming village, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, and Kato Koufonisia, which is largely uninhabited, offering a peaceful escape with untouched nature and secluded beaches. You can take a boat taxi for about 5 EUR/day, which brings you to different beaches on both islands. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to avoid the crowds and relax in some of the most beautiful surroundings.
The island itself may have a slower pace, but don’t let that fool you—there are some amazing boutiques and chic restaurants and bars to explore. To get to Pano Koufonisia, take a ferry from nearby islands like Naxos or Amorgos, with regular connections during the summer months.