So many islands to choose from ...... you will just have return again and again!
The Greek Islands appear on almost every 'top ten' island getaways list if not all. It is not surprising to anyone. The locals would definitely agree and so would foreigners, who have it on their bucket lists. I am fortunate enough to live in Athens, in Peiraias to be exact, which is the gateway to islands by ferry. Most tourists tend to head to Santorini and Mykonos on their first visit understandably, but I will try to give you a few more ideas to ponder about. Personally I tend to visit the other options in summer, to avoid the crowds as much as possible.
Marathi Beach, Crete. A leisurely drive from Chania town. It is like a dream,... but then again, Crete is full of hidden gems.
Aegina Island. So close to Athens, so easy (and affordable) to get to. Be it a day trip or a longer stay (recommended). Many lovely beaches,... very local. Great food and very green and lush. Bring your car or rent one. Had a lovely summer here. Photo taken from our balcony just outside Souvala.
Galissas Beach, Syros. Check out the view from my balcony! Great family beach, calm waters, close to town, you can take the bus and visit the rest of the island.
Agistri Island. Another gem just an hour away from Athens. Famed for it's beaches, it has a 'hippy' reputation. Go! and let your spirit free! Rent a bike, chill, let go...
Corfu town. There was nothing i didn't like about Corfu. It is still like a blast from the past, although it is so popular with tourists. My only hope is that it stays authentic for years to come. I'll be back!
Ermoupoli town, Syros. I was very impressed. Very pretty, with small hidden beach access, Lovely boutique hotels, shopping, endless food options, nightlife, history. Local feel, just the way i imagined.
Another unique thing you could do on your trip to Santorini is ... DIVE! What you find below the surface may surprise you... wall dives, wreck dives and extraordinary cavern dives. Check out Aegean Divers.
From Corfu, take a boat trip to do a little caving and visit Paxos Anti-Paxos!
Paxos Anti-Paxos, boat trip
@Kostas Boat Trips St George-South Corfu
Agios Nikolaos, Crete.
A picturesque town, thriving cafes and restaurants makes a lovely visit or a alternative base to explore this side of the island. Heraklion is an hour away and Elounda and Spinalonga island are within easy reach too.
Something I am aiming to do! Santorini Sea Kayak Tours. See the island from a different angle, visit the beaches, paddle above a volcano, caving.... i mean come-on!
Elafonissos Island. At the southern tip of the Peloponnese. It's rugged with incredible beaches :) Combines with some touring around the mainland, it makes perfect sense.
Secret balcony..... Ermoupoli, Syros Island
You either love it or hate it. Sometimes just by reputation. One thing undeniable is that some of the best beaches are found on Mykonos. Pretty town. Picture perfect scenery. Nightlife needs no introduction. Avoid July/Aug it will be super packed and expensive. Mykonos is one of the few islands that you can visit all year. Shoulder months are the best. Go with a group of friends, rent a villa or apartment and get busy. Water fun, dancing, rent a Quad/ATV. You can chill-down by going to a spa/ Hammam, Enjoying the arts and culture, taking a cruise to Rhenia island and shopping. Living the highlife :) At least try to look the part.