Since ancient times, Greece has been home to thousands of civilizations for many reasons, because of its mesmerizing nature, historical streets, joyful people, vibrant nightlife, and mostly fantastic islands. If you haven’t ever been there, you should definitely arrange an unforgettable Greek Islands holiday for yourself! In this blog post, you will get an idea about the most popular ones of the famous Greek Islands: Kos, Rhodes, Corfu, and Crete. Get your pen and paper and ready to take notes!
The Soul of Greece: Crete
The first item of our “Greek Islands for vacation” list is Crete. Crete is the biggest island in Greece, and it truly feels like a country of its own. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of beaches, nature, history, food, and culture. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters of Elafonissi Beach, explore the ancient Palace of Knossos, or hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge. The local food is rich and traditional; don’t miss trying dakos, Cretan cheese, or fresh olive oil straight from the source. Crete is ideal for both families and couples, and even solo travelers. It’s especially great for people who enjoy active holidays with some sightseeing. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is warm but not too hot. If you’re visiting in July or August, it can be a bit crowded, so booking in advance is a good idea. One thing to keep in mind: Crete is big! So it’s better to rent a car if you want to explore different parts of the island. From charming villages like Chania to the nightlife in Heraklion, Crete is a complete holiday package.
You may also want to have a look at our Crete, Greece Travel Guide.
Who is Crete Best for?
Crete is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure, history, and nature. Ideal for families, couples, and culture lovers who enjoy exploring big landscapes and rich traditions.
Laid-Back Paradise: Kos
Kos is a smaller and calmer one of the islands in Greece for holiday, perfect for those who want a relaxing beach holiday with a touch of history. It’s great for couples and families looking for peace, beautiful beaches, and a slower pace of life. You can spend your days swimming in warm waters, visiting historical sites like the ancient healing temple Asklepion, or enjoying long dinners by the sea. Kos is famous for its bike-friendly streets, and you can rent a bicycle and explore the town or coastline easily. There are also natural hot springs like the Thermes Beach, where you can enjoy a free spa-like experience in the open air. The best time to visit Kos is from late spring to early autumn (from May to September). It gets sunny early in the year, and the sea is warm enough to swim in by June. Kos isn’t as crowded as Santorini or Mykonos, so it’s a good option for a quieter holiday.
Tip: If you’re sensitive to the sun, don’t forget your sunscreen—the Aegean sun can be strong, even in spring!
Who is Kos Best for?
Kos is great for relaxed travelers, families with kids, and couples who prefer quiet beaches and a slower pace of life.
The Emerald Escape: Corfu
Corfu is one of the best Greek Islands for vacation, full of olive trees, cypress forests, and rolling hills. It’s perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, and people who enjoy exploring small, pretty towns. The island has strong Venetian and British influences, especially in Corfu Town, where you can stroll through narrow alleys, visit old forts, and enjoy a mix of Greek and European architecture.
Corfu is also great for couples, families, and solo travelers looking for both relaxation and sightseeing. The beaches are beautiful, Paleokastritsa and Glyfada are two of the most popular ones. You can also take a boat tour to nearby caves or smaller islands. The best time to visit is May to June or September to October, when the weather is still warm but the crowds are smaller.
Note: Corfu gets busier during July and August, so if you prefer a quiet holiday, visit just before or after the peak season. And don’t forget to try local food like sofrito and pastitsada!
Who is Corfu Best for?
Corfu is ideal for nature lovers, romantic couples, and culture enthusiasts looking for a peaceful, green escape with a touch of history.
The Romantic Time Capsule: Rhodes
This part is for all those searching advice for Greek Islands for honeymoon. Rhodes is like a living museum, a perfect mix of romance and history. It’s one of the best Greek Islands for couples looking for a dreamy escape. The medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of narrow stone streets, hidden courtyards, and ancient walls. It feels like stepping back in time. But Rhodes is not only about history. You can also enjoy sunny beaches like Tsambika or Lindos, take boat trips to nearby islands, and dine at seaside taverns. The island also offers luxurious resorts for honeymooners, but there are budget options too. Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are perfect times to visit, romantic, warm, and less crowded. July and August are the busiest months, with lots of tourists and high temperatures.
If you’re planning a honeymoon, pack light clothes, a nice outfit for dinner, and walking shoes for exploring the Old Town. Rhodes offers the perfect blend of love, history, and sea.
Who is Rhodes Best for?
Rhodes is best for honeymooners, history lovers, and couples who enjoy charming old towns, medieval vibes, and romantic sea views.
What Do You Need for a Greek Islands Holiday?
- Light and breathable clothes would be great especially for summer months.
- Swimsuit, beach towel, sunhat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen are among the essentials during your visit to the islands.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring or hiking, as you’ll most probably have much to discover there.
- A light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings in spring or autumn is always a good idea.
- You will also need a travel adapter if your devices are not compatible with EU plugs.
- Remember to carry some cash with you, as smaller shops or taverns might not accept cards.
- Advanced bookings for ferries and hotels, especially during high season might be a lifesaver.
- A camera or smartphone with enough storage for all the amazing views.
- And finally an open heart and curious mind to enjoy the local culture and hidden gems.
FAQ About Greek Islands
Which Greek Islands have the best beaches?
Crete, Zakynthos, Corfu, Naxos, Kos, and Mykonos are famous for their beautiful and clean beaches with clear turquoise waters.
Which Greek Islands have airports?
Many islands have airports, including Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, Mykonos, Santorini, and Zakynthos. Most offer both domestic and international flights.
How to travel between Greek Islands?
You can travel by ferry, which is common and scenic. Some islands also have small domestic flights between them.
When is the best time to visit the Greek Islands?
The best time is from May to October. July and August are the hottest and most crowded months, while May, June, and September offer perfect weather with fewer tourists.
Which Greek Islands can you fly directly to?
You can fly directly to Kos, Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu with Corendon Airlines.
Are Greek Islands safe?
Yes, Greek Islands are generally very safe for tourists. Just take usual travel precautions, especially in busy areas or at night.
