What is the best Greek island to start with?

Most first-timers choose the Cyclades, homing in on Santorini for its cliffs dripping with whitewashed cubic buildings, and Mykonos for its charismatic appeal. Once you've had your fill of Mykonos, take the ferry to nearby Tinos.



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Here's our roundup of the best Greek islands for partying.
  1. Corfu. One of Greece's most popular islands, Corfu boasts long stretches of spellbinding coastline and nightlife venues that'll have you dancing on tables the minute you waltz through the door. ...
  2. Mykonos. iStock Richmatts. ...
  3. Paros. ...
  4. Ios. ...
  5. Zakynthos. ...
  6. Kos. ...
  7. Skiathos.


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Gavdos. Gavdos is the ideal destination for freedom and relaxation. You can explore the island by bike or on foot. Trails connect beaches and settlements, while in Tripiti, the southernmost tip of Europe with the famous chair, you can reach by hiking for about an hour or by boat.

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While the Greek islands are stunning at any time of year, aim to visit between Orthodox Easter (usually April) and the end of May, or from September to mid-October. During these times, services and amenities are up and running, temperatures are balmy and crowds are thinner.

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Best Greek islands to visit
  • Mykonos. Best for summer hedonism. ...
  • Lefkada. Best for ferry-free island-hopping. ...
  • Santorini. Best for romantic retreats. ...
  • Hydra. Best for car-free cool. ...
  • Skopelos. Best for Abba fans. ...
  • Cephalonia. Best for spotting sea turtles. ...
  • Symi. Best for yesteryear appeal. ...
  • Zakynthos. Best for that world-famous shipwreck.


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Best Less Touristy & Underrated Greek Islands to Visit This Year
  • Milos. Ancient volcanic rock formations dot the island of Milos. ...
  • Thasos (Thassos) ...
  • Evia (Euboea) ...
  • Kefalonia. ...
  • Koufonisia. ...
  • Antiparos. ...
  • Ithaca. ...
  • Naxos.


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Santorini. In Santorini the blue of the sea blends with the blue of the sky and the blue roofs of the houses. This island, ranked among the best destinations for a honeymoon in Europe, is also one of the most beautiful Greek islands. The easiest way is to book a direct flight to Santorini.

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How Many Days in Greece: For most tourists, I recommend a visit of 10 to 15 days. This allows for a few days in Athens; a day trip to Nafplio, Delphi, or the Meteora; and a few nights on 2 or 3 Greek islands. Of course, trips of more or fewer days are possible. Can you visit Greece for only two or three nights?

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The primary location for Mamma Mia! is on the island of Skopelos, with some scenes shot also on the island of Skiathos. Both Skopelos and Skiathos are part of the Sporades islands. There is also a third location, the seaside village of Damouchari in Pelion, where Mamma Mia! was shot.

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Santorini is famed for its stunning white villages like Oia and Fira spilling down high cliffs that sit above a volcanic caldera. The island tops many travelers' bucket lists, so it pairs nicely with Athens for a 5 day itinerary to Greece.

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Santorini is best known as a romantic island with one-of-a-kind views, whereas Mykonos is more about sandy beaches and spirited partying. Depending on the vibe you seek, both islands suit holidays à deux. Solo travellers and groups of friends will also find both appealing, though Mykonos offers more in terms of edge.

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In order to avoid the heat and crowds, I suggest visiting in the spring (April to June) or fall (September and October). I think April and September are the two best months — the weather is fantastic, but you get a better travel experience away from the cruise-ship crowds of July and August.

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The most affordable Greek Islands to visit include Crete, Andros, Tinos, Corfu and Naxos. These cheap Greek Islands don't get nearly as many visitors as others, making everything from transportation to food and accommodations more affordable. And often, they're not even very far from the more popular islands.

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The most affordable Greek Islands to visit include Crete, Andros, Tinos, Corfu and Naxos. These cheap Greek Islands don't get nearly as many visitors as others, making everything from transportation to food and accommodations more affordable. And often, they're not even very far from the more popular islands.

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If you're island hopping the Cyclades, leave three days aside to get a real taste of all the islet has to offer. For those planning a single-destination getaway, we'd recommend staying on the island for five days plus.

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Peak season is summer, when Athens is packed with tourists, and hotel prices can be high. July and August are the hottest. The best time to visit is late spring (May) and fall (Sept–Oct). It's pleasant, with comfortable weather, no rain, and smaller crowds (except during holiday weekends).

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