Which Greek island is like Santorini but less crowded?

Folegandros, Cyclades With imposing scarped cliffs and the same burnished palette, the humble little sister to Santorini is just as dramatic yet far less crowded (and expensive). And like Santorini, chalky towns chockfull of taverns and churches teeter on craggy cliff tops.



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5 alluring Greek island alternatives to Santorini and Mykonos
  1. Syros. ...
  2. Milos. ...
  3. Paros. ...
  4. Ios. ...
  5. Naxos.


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There are slightly fewer crowds in Mykonos vs. Santorini always being packed. We traveled to Greece in mid-May, which was definitely the best time to visit Mykonos and Santorini. This allowed us to explore the islands with fewer crowds but still have nice weather.

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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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Escape Oia and Fira. Get out of these hot spots and head to the lesser-known parts of the island: Emborio, Finikia, Colombo Beach, and Pyrgos all showcase the charm of Santorini without the packs of people.

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Don't stay in Oia or Thera But if you really want to avoid crowds, try staying in Imerovigli, or on the Eastern side of the island. We stayed at Xenones Filotera in Imerovigli, which has an unobstructed view of the caldera (volcanic crater) and just a few other hotels nearby.

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The scenery, views, sunsets, and natural beauty of Santorini are unrivaled by Mykonos or any other Greek island. Mykonos is not without its beautiful spots but for scenes that are truly jaw-dropping, Santorini wins hands-down. Santorini is more romantic and much better suited to a honeymoon or couples vacation.

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Crete has better beaches but they're spread out and it takes a fair bit of effort to see the best beaches. Santorini is small and it's easy to get around to all the popular beaches. Crete has more small traditional (non-touristy) villages. Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a honeymoon.

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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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Best Greek islands to visit
  1. Skiathos. Best for beautiful beaches. ...
  2. Kos. Best for sand between your toes. ...
  3. Ios. Best for sophisticated stays. ...
  4. Evia. Best for hiking and history. ...
  5. Crete. Best for variety. ...
  6. Corfu. Best for lush landscapes. ...
  7. Rhodes. Best for families. ...
  8. Mykonos. Best for summer hedonism.


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Kastellorizo. One of the most remote and least touristy of the Dodecanese islands, far-flung Kastellorizo is more than 100km from Rhodes, within touching distance of the Turkish coast.

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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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