Greece has many beautiful islands waiting to be discovered. Some are well-known, like Mykonos and Santorini. But, other Greek islands are hidden gems. They offer a peaceful and real experience for travelers looking for a quiet place. So, which island is truly the most underrated?
Before we explore further, let’s admire the stunning beauty and variety of Greece’s islands. There are about 6,000 islands and islets in total. Out of these, close to 300 are places where people live1. This means there’s an island for anyone’s liking.
Visiting these lesser-known islands is a great way to avoid big crowds. It also lets you dive into the local culture. By doing so, you’ll be experiencing Greece at its purest. These hidden gems let you enjoy untouched beauty and peace, often overlooked by tourists.
Imagine arriving at an island only reachable by boat. Here, it feels like time slows down. You get to completely disconnect from the busy world. Maybe you’ll walk through streets with beautiful neoclassical homes near a stunning harbor2. Or maybe you love beaches with clear waters and secret spots for snorkeling and seeing sea life2.
So, which Greek island is the most underrated? The answer depends on what you like. Let’s take a look at some islands that don’t always get the attention they should:
1. Astypalaia: You can get there easily from Athens by daily flights2. This pretty island offers peace with its beautiful beaches and old villages.
2. Halki: You can reach it only by boat from Rhodes or by weekly hydrofoil to other islands2. Halki charms visitors with its lovely architecture and quiet vibes.
3. Kimolos: It’s very close to Milos2. This little island has pretty beaches, traditional places, and a relaxing feel.
4. Ithaki: Its capital, Vathy, has a lovely natural harbor2. This island is well-known for its history and charming towns.
5. Symi: It stands out for its harbor with beautiful homes around it2. It’s amazing for a walk among the colorful buildings.
These are just a few of the hidden gems in Greece. Each island has something special to offer. You might enjoy the real Greek food in Sifnos3. Or perhaps love driving through the winding road of Folegandros3. Or discovering the history of Heraion in Samos2. There are so many places to explore, each with its own wonders.
So, get your bags ready and go on a trip to find the most underrated Greek island. A place where peace and true Greek spirit are waiting for you.
Why Choose the Less Popular Islands?
Choosing the less popular islands led me to a unique Greek experience. I found quiet beaches and traditional villages. These spots let me dive into Greece’s true spirit, away from the crowds.
There are over 6,000 Greek islands, offering plenty of choices. Santorini is famous but not the only beautiful place. Milos, a volcanic island, showcases amazing landscapes thanks to its history.
Kos is perfect for beach enthusiasts, with over 20 sandy spots. For crystal-clear waters and nature combined with history, Thasos is a top pick. It has greenery, ruins, and a clean coast.
Evia is a large island close to Athens, accessible by a bridge. It varies from mountains to beaches, making it a versatile spot to visit4.
For trips to Greece, you might land in Athens or Thessaloniki. Both airports lead to different island groups. Thessaloniki is good for the Northern Aegean and Ionian Sea islands4.
Ferries are the usual way to move between Greek islands. They’re affordable and offer beautiful sea views. This mode lets you travel freely, island-hopping at leisure4.
Staying in guesthouses or small hotels can offer a more local feel. They often reveal hidden cultural spots and connect you to the people. These stays are welcoming and provide memorable experiences4.
The lesser-known Greek islands may not be famous, but they’re rich in beauty and history. They offer unique journeys away from the busy tourist spots. Here, you can make lasting memories in peaceful, scenic surrounds4.
11 Most Underrated Islands in Greece
Looking to explore off-the-beaten-path Greek islands? You’re in for a treat. Greece has over 200 inhabited islands, each with a unique and captivating story5.
Symi, close to Turkey, is top of the list. It’s perfect for fun on boat-only beaches and hiking. You can also see an old castle’s remains and enjoy tasty local food5.
Astypalaia has a lot to offer with its old-world charm and beautiful shores. This quiet island gives a true taste of Greece away from the crowd5.
Milos is famous for its unique rocks and historical volcanic activity. You can see the impact of eruptions from tens of thousands of years ago. It’s a paradise for geology enthusiasts5.
Foodies, don’t miss Sifnos. It’s known for its amazing food. Enjoy local dishes and dive into the island’s lively food scene5.
Looking for peace and beautiful beaches? Amorgos is your go-to. It offers crystal-clear waters and quiet spots perfect for relaxation5.
Paros is a great budget-friendly option. It’s cheaper than hotspots like Mykonos and Santorini. But it still has lovely beaches and a rich local culture5.
Naxos is perfect for those who love history and nature. Enjoy hikes, water sports, and visiting ancient sites like the remarkable Portara5.
Love sailing? Serifos is a dream come true. It’s famous for its beautiful scenery and great sailing conditions. Enjoy hidden beaches and the peaceful vibe5.
Leros offers a true taste of authentic Greek island life. It has quaint villages, lovely beaches, and historical treasures. Great for genuine explorers5.
Want simplicity and quiet? Halki is ideal. It’s a small island with little tourism. The perfect escape from busy life5.
Don’t miss Kimolos, a gem with beautiful beaches and relaxed charm. Explore its nature and enjoy a laid-back island life5.
These 11 islands are ready for you to explore. They offer rich history, stunning views, great food, or a peaceful escape5.
Conclusion
When you’re thinking about your next trip to Greece, look into its lesser-known islands. Places like Evia, Karpathos, Zakynthos, Thasos, and Naxos await you with special chances for adventure and cultural dives6.
Looking for peace with stunning nature? Poros is calling your name. It’s close to the Peloponnese and draws you in with its sparkling waters and soft sands. Love Bay is a spot you can’t miss, surrounded by pine trees7. Visit the 1720 Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi or the unique Lemon Forest by boat7. Enjoy Greek dishes in local spots and learn at the Archaeological Museum7.
Not far, Ios is affordable and fun. Tackle a 6.7-mile hike, see the ancient Skarkos village from 2500 BC, and take in scenery like Santorini for less8. A quick ferry takes you from Santorini. Stroll its lanes and see its pretty churches8. The perfect times for Poros and Ios are April to October, with warm weather and calm waters78.
So, these lesser-known islands offer something truly special. They’re full of beauty, charm, and real travel experiences. Go off the usual way and find the hidden wonders of Greece. There, you’ll make memories to cherish forever.
Source Links
- The 11 Most Underrated Greek Islands to Visit in 2024
- 13 Underrated Greek Islands to Escape the Summer Crowds
- Our Favourite Underrated Greek Islands | Original Travel
- 15 Underrated & Less Touristy Greek Islands To Visit
- 11 Authentic Greek Islands You Must Visit This Summer | Greece Travel
- The 5 Most Beautiful and Underrated Greek Islands
- Discovering a Hidden Gem of Greece: Poros Island — Hesp Food & Travel
- Our Trip to Ios: Discovering Greece’s Beautiful, Budget-Friendly, and Underrated Gem
