Islands in Greece: 10 Hidden Greek Islands You Must Visit is written by Frederik Bregndahl Mikkelsen.
The hidden gems and most overlooked islands of Greece
Greece and the Greek archipelago are one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
Especially during the summer holidays, tourists flock to the wonderful Greek islands to experience Greek culture, Mediterranean cuisine and the fantastic beaches.
On RejsRejsRejs- we have previously had the editorial team collected the 20 best islands in Greece, but the many tourists from different countries can take up a lot of space on the small Greek islands.
That's why we've now collected 10 hidden islands that are worth staying overnight on when you're going to... Greece next time.
Castellorizo – all alone in the far east
Isolated from the rest of the Greek islands, far to the east in the Greek archipelago, lies the island of Kastellorizo. In fact, the island is only 2 kilometers from the coast of Turkey, but more than 500 kilometers from Athens.
It is Greece The least populated inhabited island with just under 600 inhabitants, the island is a guarantee of Greek idyll and relaxation.
Despite its compact size, the island has a rich history with stunning natural beauty, while the waterfront of the island's only town, Megisti, is adorned with pastel-colored mansions.
On the small island, visitors can explore ancient ruins, while also diving into the Blue Cave, one of the largest caves in the Mediterranean.
Samothrace – an oasis in the sea
If you like harsh and mysterious, but also beautiful nature combined with authentic Greek charm, then there are not many islands in Greece like Samothrace.
The rocky island lies not far from the Greek coast at Alexandroupoli in the easternmost corner of Greece and is famous for its cascading waterfalls and lush rocky oases, which invite hiking and bathing at the bottom of the waterfalls. Samothrace is also known for the ancient Cabiric Mysteries, which were secret religious rituals performed in the sanctuary of Samothrace.
The iconic statue of the goddess of victory Nike was also found on Samothrace in 1863. It is today in the Louvre Museum in Paris.
Samothrace offers a raw and authentic Greek experience with wild nature and history, where you can also find the classic beaches and blue bathing water that provide a very special Greek experience.
Lack – pure Greek atmosphere
When it comes to Greek island culture, it's hard to avoid the small island of Lipsi north of Kos.
Here you are guaranteed to encounter the well-known phenomenon of 'Greek time'. Everything with a time horizon should be taken with a grain of salt – the Greeks get things done whenever they feel like it.
On Lipsi you will find top-class beaches with golden sand and turquoise blue water, traditional tavernas and local Greek hospitality, and the island is a dream island for sunbathers.
The main town also has the classic white houses with blue roofs and doors, which are iconic for many of the Greek islands.
Ikaria – the island where they live longer
Ikaria is not just an island – it's a lifestyle. That's how the atmosphere on the small island in the eastern part of the Greek archipelago is described.
The residents of Ikaria are known for living long lives, and they are part of the world's five 'blue Zoner', where the population lives exceptionally healthy and long lives.
In addition to a fantastic lifestyle, the island offers incredibly beautiful nature, green hills, hot springs and beaches that rival those on Seychelles.
The Greek island also holds the traditional Panigiria festivals, which often last all night with food, wine, music and dancing.
The slow pace of Ikaria makes the island a perfect getaway for those who want to completely relax from the busy and stressful everyday life.
kythira – a true hidden paradise
Not far from the southern tip of the Greek mainland lies the island of Kythira, which is a true hidden paradise.
With a diverse landscape, there is an opportunity to do almost anything on Kythira – from hiking in the island's wild rocky landscape to sunbathing on the golden beaches.
The island is incredibly rich in history and culture and, according to Greek mythology, is said to be the birthplace of the goddess of love Aphrodite, which is why there is also a temple on Kythira to honor her.
If you feel like exploring an untouched Greek jewel, then Kythira is definitely worth a visit.
Fourni – a haven among the well-visited islands of Greece
Right next to the island of Ikaria in the Northeast Aegean Islands, Fourni offers a perfect getaway among the more popular islands in Greece.
The islands are primarily populated by fishermen, and there is no organized tourism with large resorts or the like to disturb the Greek idyll.
Fourni is a true Greek rocky island, which means there are countless hidden coves with small golden beaches and turquoise blue waters.
In the main town you can visit the authentic tavernas that serve freshly caught fish that the fishermen have pulled in during the day.
Alonissos – a national park below the sea surface
Alonissos and the surrounding sea are known as one of the most biodiverse islands in Greece.
The island lies like a lush green oasis in the water between Thessaloniki and Athens among the Greek islands and is home to the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades, the largest marine reserve in Europe.
In addition to a rich wildlife, the island hides a multitude of small beaches with white sand and crystal clear water.
The island also has a lot of history. It has been inhabited since 4000 BC and was known in antiquity for its wine production.
Today, the island is known for its production of freshly caught tuna, which is preserved in olive oil.
Kea – one of the most secret islands in Greece?
Just off the coast of Athens lies one of perhaps the best-kept secrets in Greece.
The small island of Kéa, called Tzia in Greek, is a true hidden gem without many tourists, and with its location close to Athens, it also has some of the atmosphere and authenticity of the mainland.
Kéa also offers several local specialties, with the locally produced Tzia wine being a must haveif you happen to pass by the island.
The island is also rich in archaeological history, and with a tranquil atmosphere and wonderful beaches, it is the perfect island for both history buffs and sunbathers who love to soak up the sun far from the crowds.
Kimolos – a geological wonder
Right next to one of the most wonderful islands in Greece, Milos, lies a volcanic wonder.
The island of Kimolos offers a true paradise with dramatic white cliffs and hot thermal springs, making it an obvious place to visit for those seeking natural spa treatments.
The name Kimolos comes from the Greek word for lime – kimolia – due to the island's white volcanic rock.
In addition to beautiful nature, you can completely relax on the island, which is often overlooked in favor of its more well-known neighbor, Milos.
The island has been inhabited since approximately 3000 BC and is rich in history, while also boasting wonderful beaches and a delicious Greek food culture.
Antiparos – the complete opposite of the touristy islands in Greece
Just a 7-minute boat ride from the popular holiday island of Paros lies its opposite – Antiparos. The name says it all.
Antiparos exudes tranquility and Greek island culture as soon as you set foot on the island. And that's what Hollywood star Tom Hanks also fell for when he owns a villa on the island.
But just because the island has attracted a major movie star doesn't mean it's completely overrun with tourists.
One half of the island is covered by a rocky landscape, which also means that only half of the island is inhabited.
Antiparos is a true paradise for those who want to completely relax, enjoy the relaxed Greek atmosphere at the island's cozy tavernas and the several beautiful beaches.
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Hidden – but not troublesome
If you've got the urge to visit some of the islands on the list, then just go for it.
Because even though they are not among the most popular islands, they are still easy to get to. Some of the islands on the list have a local airport, but the easiest and cheapest way would be to sail with one of the many ferries in the Greek archipelago.
No matter which island you want to travel to, there is always a ferry.
Have a nice trip to the hidden islands of Greece.
10 overlooked Greek islands
- Castellorizo
- Samothrace
- Lack
- Ikaria
- kythira
- provided
- Alonissos
- Kea
- kimolos
- Stoppages
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