Imagine standing on the shores of Greece, a land of ancient myths and stunning views. As the sun sets over the clear waters, you might wonder how many Greek islands are out there. The answer might surprise you.
Greece has a huge number of islands, from 1,200 to 6,0001. Yes, it’s true! These islands range from popular spots to hidden treasures. They show what paradise looks like.
About 227 of these islands are lived in2. These islands show Greek culture and are home to locals all year. But, most islands are not lived in, waiting for those who dare to explore.
Only 78 islands with more than 100 people live there3. Most Greek islands are small with close communities. This creates a warm and real feeling that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The Cyclades have 220 islands, but only 33 are lived in3. The Sporades have 4 out of 24 islands for people2. There are many choices for your Greek island trip.
The North Aegean has seven big islands and smaller ones2. The Ionian islands have seven big ones and about 20 small, mostly empty islets2. Each group has its own charm, drawing visitors with its unique feel.
Crete is the biggest Greek island, with over 630,000 people living there always2. It’s special to both locals and tourists. Its stunning views, history, and culture make it a top spot to visit.
Evia is the second-biggest island, with 190,000 people2. It’s in the Aegean Sea and mixes natural beauty with traditional Greek style. It attracts visitors from everywhere.
Whether you want to see the Dodecanese islands or the Saronic Islands, the Greek islands offer amazing experiences23. Each island is a treasure of unforgettable moments.
Choosing any Greek island will leave a mark on your heart. Get ready for warm hospitality, delicious food, and memories that will stay with you forever.
Islands of Greece by Size
The Greek islands are famous for their beauty and draw millions of visitors yearly. They range from small islets to large landmasses. This variety makes them a top travel spot.
Crete is the biggest Greek island, covering 3,219 square miles (8,336 square kilometers)4. It’s perfect for those who love the beach and history. Its size and variety make it a favorite.
Euboea is the second biggest island, with 1,417 square miles (3,670 square kilometers)4. It’s near the mainland and has beautiful beaches, towns, and mountains.
Other big islands include Lesbos, Rhodes, Chios, Kefalonia, Corfu, Lemnos, Samos, Naxos, Zakynthos, Thassos, Andros, Lefkada, Karpathos, Kos, Kythira, Icaria, Skyros, Paros, Tinos, Samothrace, Milos, Kea, Amorgos, Kalymnos, Ios, Kythnos, Astypalaia, Ithaca, Salamis, Skopelos, Mykonos, Syros, Aegina, Santorini, Serifos, Sifnos, Kasos, and Alonnisos5.
These islands have different landscapes, from green to rugged coastlines. Each island has its own special charm. From Zakynthos’ beaches to Mykonos‘ lively streets, there’s something for everyone.
Islands of Greece by Population
The Greek islands have a wide range of people living there. Some islands have a lot of people, while others have fewer. Among these islands, a few have a big number of people.
Crete is the biggest island with about 636,504 people6. Euboea (or Evia) is the second biggest and has 191,206 people6. Lesbos is third in size and has 83,755 people6.
Rhodes is another big island with 125,113 people6. These islands are popular because of their beautiful landscapes, history, and culture.
Islands like Corfu, Chios, Zakynthos, Salamis, Kos, Kefalonia, Samos, and Lefkada also have a lot of people. They make the Greek island life lively. Each island has its own special charm.
The Greek islands are grouped into clusters like the Argo-Saronic Islands, Cyclades, North Aegean Islands, Dodecanese, Sporades, and Ionian Islands6. These groups have islands with different sizes and people. This makes the Greek island experience diverse6.
Salamis is the biggest in the Argo-Saronic cluster with 37,220 people6. This shows the variety in population sizes across the Greek islands. From small islands with a few thousand people to big ones like Crete with over half a million6.
The Greek islands have a mix of cultures and communities. They offer something for everyone, from quiet islands to busy places. The Greek islands are a treasure for visitors.
Greek Islands with Significant Populations
| Island | Population |
|---|---|
| Crete | 636,504 |
| Euboea (Evia) | 191,206 |
| Lesbos | 83,755 |
| Rhodes | 125,113 |
| Corfu | Population data not available |
| Chios | Population data not available |
| Zakynthos | Population data not available |
| Salamis | 37,220 |
| Kos | Population data not available |
| Kefalonia | Population data not available |
| Samos | Population data not available |
| Lefkada | Population data not available |
Note: Population data for some Greek islands is not available. Please refer to updated sources for accurate information.
The Greek islands offer a wide range of choices for both residents and visitors. Each island is special, with its own population and charm. Greece is a great place to explore.
Islands of the Aegean Sea
The Aegean Sea is in southeastern Europe and has many Greek islands and islets. It’s perfect for travelers and adventurers. It covers about 214,000 km27 and is very deep, up to 3,544 meters7. The sea is long and wide, with clear waters and lots of sea life.
The Aegean Islands are in seven main groups, each special in its own way. These groups are the Northeastern Aegean Islands, East Aegean Islands, Northern Sporades, Cyclades, Saronic Islands, Dodecanese, and Crete7. They have beautiful views, history, and a lively culture. There’s something for everyone, from relaxing to exploring or having an adventure.
Key cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, Volos, Kavala, and Heraklion in Greece, and İzmir and Bodrum in Turkey7 are by the Aegean Sea. These cities help visitors get to the beautiful islands.
The Argo-Saronic Islands
The Argo-Saronic Islands are part of the Aegean Sea. They have islands like Aegina, Agios Georgios Salaminos, Agistri, Hydra, and Poros7. These islands have lovely fishing villages, beaches, and ancient ruins. They mix peace with history.
The Cretan Islands
The Cretan islands are around the biggest island, Crete7. Islands like Afendis Christos, Agia Varvara, Agioi Apostoloi, Agioi Pandes, Agios Nikolaos, and Agriomandra have beautiful views and clear waters. They also have a deep history.
The Aegean Sea has many islands and islets, full of beauty, history, and fun. You can relax on beaches, see ancient ruins, or dive into the local culture7.
Exploring the Aegean Sea’s islands will amaze you with their beauty, villages, and friendly people. Each island is different, from the peaceful Argo-Saronic to the historic Cretan islands. Start an amazing trip through the Aegean Sea and make memories to remember7.
Conclusion
Greece is a country with many travel spots, thanks to its islands. It has over 2,000 islands, about 170 of which people live in8. This means travelers have lots of choices for a great island trip. You can go to busy places like Santorini and Mykonos or find quiet islands with a rural feel.
The islands are known for their beautiful views and history. Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets and volcanic scenery9. Corfu is the greenest island, offering a peaceful place to visit9. Crete, the biggest island, has over 8,000 square kilometers9 of beauty and ancient ruins.
Big islands like Santorini and Mykonos are popular, but Greece has many small, quiet islands too. These islands offer a real and calm experience. The country’s landscape is mostly sea, mountains, and lowlands8. You can see white beaches, mountains, green forests, and historic sites on these islands.
Visiting Greece’s islands is a great choice, whether you go to famous spots or quiet places. You can easily get around by ferry or plane10. Summer is the best time to visit for good weather and more things to do10. Greece’s islands are perfect for anyone who loves to travel and see new places.
Source Links
- How Many Greek Islands Are There? A Local’s Guide
- How Many Greek Islands Are There? – Greece Is
- Greek Islands How Many | A 6.000 Island Hopping Heaven to Explore
- Geography of Greece
- The Greek Islands: An Adventure Guide
- List of islands of Greece
- Aegean Sea
- Greece | Islands, Cities, Language, & History
- 15 Top Islands in Greece to Visit for Every Traveller
- How Many Greek Islands Are There? – Vita Bella Travel
