Five Stunning Greek Islands You’ve Probably Never Heard Before

The dazzling colours and beautiful beaches of Greece’s famous islands extend to these lesser-known destinations without the tourist crowd – take your pick!

Blessed with nearly 10,000 miles of coastline, Greece is popular for its picture-perfect beaches and island escapes. Most travellers flock to Santorini and Mykonos but there are over 227 inhabited islands throughout the Aegean and Ionic Seas. So, if you’re seeking a secluded slice of heaven, pack your bags for an offbeat and underrated Greek island perfect for an island-hopping escape.  

Milos

Milos boasts dramatic landscape with tall volcanic rocks and coastlines carved by lava painting a picture of hues of orange, red and white. Sarakiniko is the most popular beach here that resembles a moonscape with soft sand and towering white volcanic rocks. There are numerous other attractions here: head to the Sulfur Mines at Pilorema, visit three interconnected catacombs dating back to the first to fifth centuries or wander through an ancient theatre built by Romans in the third century BC. Plan your visit between June to early October for warm sunny weather.  

Naxos

The largest of Cyclades Islands, Naxos usually don’t end up on Greek itineraries but one can access this island easily through ferry or a catamaran from both Santorini and Mykonos. The island still retains its idyllic charm with spectacular beaches, high peaks and lush green landscapes dotted with fruits and olive trees.  If you plan to visit, don’t leave without sampling its local vegetables, meat and cheeses. Archaeological museum of Naxos and Portara and the doorway to the Temple of Apollo are some of the must-visit attractions here. The island is also popular for activities such as kite and windsurfing.

Folegandros

Located at the southern edge of the Cyclades group of islands, Folegandros boasts dramatic cliffs and serene beaches with mesmerizing views. Most travellers skip this island and move to Los or Mykonos but venture out a little and you’ll find it worth your time. Angali, Agios Nikolaos and Livadaki are the most popular beaches here. For an unforgettable experience, take a stroll to the Church of Panagia – a stark white structure with a glowing hillside setting. To reach this beautiful island, take a ferry from Athens which only adds to your overall experience.  

Samothraki

Just two-hour ferry-ride from Alexandroupolis on the mainland, Samothraki is most loved by the local tourists and offers nature in its wilder form and all the archaeological wonders you could want from your Greek escape. According to Homer, this was the island from where Poseidon watched the fall of Troy. Adventure enthusiasts can climb up the Mount Fengari for rewarding sea views, history buffs can explore Thracian Sanctuary of the Great Gods and those who want to just relax and work on their tan can visit the popular Agios Georgios Beach.

Paros

From stunning beaches to traditional villages and lovely little cafes, Paros has everything that you could hope for in a Greece holiday but lesser crowds than nearby Mykonos and Santorini. Its capital, Parikia offers thrilling water sports opportunities and still has those idyllic stone streets and white-washed buildings. Visit Kolymbithres Beach, popular for its soft gold sands and surreal granite rocks. The Byzantine church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani is another attraction that you can explore when you’re here.

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