A Guide to the Greek Islands: Where to Go & What to Know

When you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, whitewashed villages, and sun-drenched landscapes, the Greek Islands are the answer. Whether you want a romantic retreat, an adventurous getaway, or a family-friendly holiday, Greece delivers an unforgettable experience. In this detailed guide, we’ll help you plan a perfect trip to Greece, focusing on where to go in the Greek Islands and what you need to know before you book.

Why the Greek Islands Are Perfect for Every Traveler

With over 6,000 islands and islets—around 227 of them inhabited—the Greek archipelago offers an incredible range of experiences. From the cosmopolitan nightlife of Mykonos to the untouched serenity of Koufonisia, there’s a Greek island for every style of traveler.

Here’s what makes them stand out:

• Stunning Beaches: From dramatic cliffs to powdery white sand.

• Rich History: Ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and medieval castles.

• Delicious Cuisine: Local cheeses, seafood, and wines that vary by island.

• Warm Hospitality: Greek islanders are known for their friendliness and traditions.

How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Greece: Step-by-Step

1. Choose the Right Island(s) for Your Travel Style

⛱ Santorini – Romantic & Iconic
The famous caldera views, luxurious hotels, and dramatic sunsets make Santorini ideal for couples and honeymooners.

🎉 Mykonos – Party & Glamour
Famous for beach clubs, luxury shopping, and buzzing nightlife. Great for groups and trendsetters.

🏖 Crete – Beaches & Culture
The largest Greek island with a perfect mix of stunning coastlines, ancient ruins, and mountain villages.

🕊 Paros – Authentic & Stylish
Less crowded than Mykonos but just as beautiful. Great for boutique stays and picturesque towns.

🌿 Naxos – Family-Friendly & Natural
A laid-back island with child-friendly beaches, rich agriculture, and traditional villages.

🌅 Rhodes – Historic & Scenic
Explore medieval towns, beautiful beaches, and historical sites like the Palace of the Grand Master.

💧 Zakynthos – Blue Caves & Navagio Beach
Located in the Ionian Sea, this island is known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.

2. Decide When to Go

• May to June and September to October are ideal for great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

• July and August are the hottest and busiest months, perfect for beach lovers but less budget-friendly.

• April or early November offer quieter moments and cooler temperatures for exploring.

3. Island-Hopping vs. Single Island Stay

Greece is ideal for island-hopping thanks to its excellent ferry connections. You can pair islands like Mykonos and Naxos, or Santorini and Paros. However, if you want to relax, staying on one island gives you a deeper experience.

Island groups to consider:

• Cyclades: Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos

• Dodecanese: Rhodes, Kos

• Ionian: Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia

• Sporades: Skiathos, Skopelos

4. Book Your Flights and Ferries

To plan a perfect trip to Greece, secure your international flight to Athens or directly to an island with an airport (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes). From Athens, ferries connect you to almost every major island.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Currency & Budget

Greece uses the Euro (€). The islands range in price:

• Budget: Naxos, Paros, Crete

• Mid-range: Rhodes, Corfu

• Luxury: Santorini, Mykonos

Tavernas offer delicious meals for €10–15. Luxury dining and beach clubs can go upwards of €50–100.

Getting Around

• Car Rentals: Ideal for Crete, Naxos, and large islands

• ATVs/Scooters: Fun for exploring smaller islands like Ios or Paros

• Public Buses: Affordable and widely available in most towns

Language

Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Safety

Greece is one of the safest countries in Europe. The islands have a laid-back pace, and petty crime is rare.

Hidden Gems Worth Exploring

While Santorini and Mykonos are famous, some lesser-known islands are equally stunning without the crowds:

• Koufonisia: A tiny paradise perfect for off-grid beach days

• Folegandros: A picturesque gem with stunning cliffside views

• Symi: Near Rhodes, this island has pastel houses and a quaint harbor

• Ikaria: Known for its longevity and wellness culture

• Amorgos: Rugged and dramatic landscapes ideal for hikers

How to Find the Best Airfare Deals from the UK

Scoring the right flights is crucial to keep your Greek escape affordable. Here’s how to grab the best airfare deals from the UK:

✈ Use Fare Comparison Tools

Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo let you compare airlines, dates, and routes in seconds.

✈ Book Early

Flights to Greece fill up quickly, especially for summer. Book 2–3 months in advance for the best prices.

✈ Fly Midweek

Tuesday and Wednesday flights are typically cheaper than weekend departures.

✈ Consider Alternate Airports

London has multiple options (Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted), and you may save significantly by flying from regional airports like Manchester or Bristol.

✈ Set Price Alerts

Set alerts to monitor fares and book when prices drop.

Your Greek Island Dream Awaits

From exploring the ancient ruins of Rhodes to soaking in the sunset in Santorini, the Greek Islands are a sensory delight. With the right planning, anyone can plan a perfect trip to Greece that blends adventure, relaxation, history, and indulgence. Start browsing now and take advantage of the best airfare deals from the UK to make your Greek dream a reality.