Figuring out which Greek islands to visit is tricky.
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You need to find the right balance—one that gives you enough space and peace to truly unwind without stranding you out in the boonies, far from good restaurants and historic landmarks. But considering Greece has over 200 inhabited islands to choose from, and not all are easily accessible via an Athens ferry, where should you visit?
Even more importantly, how can you make sure you end up on Greek islands that aren’t that touristy? While I can’t promise that you won’t see another tourist, I can help you skip the densest crowds when you visit this year. Here’s where to go.
Greek islands that aren’t touristy—or, at least, overtouristy
Hydra
A few years ago, one of my friends was dating a Greek shipping magnate’s son. (Her name isn’t Jackie.) His family had a vacation home in Hydra, a small island that’s normally frequented by locals instead of tourists. Though I didn’t make the trip out, she raved about Hydra.
The sleepy island is carless—more transportation is via boat or donkey. There are a few museums, rocky beaches, and swimming coves to check out. Otherwise, expect plenty of peace and tranquility.
Find a hotel or private rental in Hydra.
Amorgos
Delve into the Cyclades on an island dubbed ‘Big Blue’. The landscape is dry and harsh, which makes for dramatic Mediterranean coastal views. It’s a hub for hikers, solo travelers, and anyone after a serene escape. You won’t see any large-scale resorts or rivers of slow-moving tourists. Instead, it has more of an intimate honeymoon vibe—perfect for romance!
Find a hotel or private rental in Amorgos.
Sifnos
Sifnos is also in the Cyclades. You’ll find white-washed villages dotting the island where the slow lifestyle still reigns supreme. There are sandy beaches where you can disappear for a day, along with architectural sites like the Church of the Seven Martyrs. Best of all, Sifnos has a reputation for its culinary offers, including slow-roasted lamb or goat dishes called mastelo and a local honey pie called melopita.
Find a hotel or private rental in Sifnos.
Trizonia
Just like Hydra, Trizonia is a car-free island. Expect an especially slow pace due to this, along with a highly remote feel. Trizonia is the only inhabited island in Greece’s Corinthian Gulf, making it harder to get to than other popular islands. It’s ideal for beach-lovers, as Trizonia has multiple clear-water beaches, including Kapsales and Aspra Halikia.
Find a hotel or private rental in Trizonia.
Folegandros
Most of Folegrandros is also car-free, especially in the main village of Chora. What makes Folegandros great for tourists who want a more intimate escape is that there isn’t so much infrastructure. Most beaches are wild, most restaurants are small mom-and-pop establishments, and its ports aren’t home to a single passing cruise ship. The water is especially blue and crystal-clear, as this is a Cyclades island.
Find a hotel or private rental in Folegandros.
Ikaria
Known as a ‘slow zone’ where locals aren’t likely to respect the clock, Ikaria lets you drop off the map. The landscape is rugged and mountainous, while the beaches are remote, rocky, and pristine. Ikaria is part of the Blue Zone, one of five global zones where people live longer, healthier lives. It’s also the birthplace of the mythical Icaros, in case you enjoy a little Greek Mythology.
Find a hotel or private rental in Ikaria.
Andros
The last thing I picture when someone brings up Greece is lush forests—it’s squarelty a dry, coastal country, in my mind. But Andros, the second-largest island in the Cyclades, is known for its greenery. You can find forests amid the mountainous areas, along with hidden waterfalls. (In addition to great beaches, of course.) Only a two-hour ride from Athens, Andros is one of the more accessible Greek Islands that aren’t touristy.
Find a hotel or private rental in Andros.
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