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30 best Greek islands for holidays – list, photo, description, map

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Greece owns almost 3,000 islands, covering about 20% of its area. Among them are many uninhabited land areas with pristine nature. Over 300 are inhabited. There are many ancient sights, unique natural conditions. Everything that tourists need. The islands of Greece for recreation are suitable for people of any age throughout the year. Getting to know the conditions of each of them in advance will help make the trip interesting and useful. They get from Athens airport by several means of transport: taxi, ferry.

Crete

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The island on which Zeus lived was ruled by King Minos, Theseus defeated the Minotaur, the famous artist of the Middle Ages El Greco was born, is the largest and most popular among tourists from different countries. The greatest civilization of the ancient period existed on it, leaving monuments, legends, myths, and philosophical knowledge to generations.

It is offered to get acquainted with its historical past along with accommodation in modern hotels with restaurants, swimming pools, and entertainment infrastructure. Rest on the chic beaches formed by several seas. Walk among picturesque rocks, valleys and unusual mountains. Every corner breathes ancient history. Their visit can be compared with a journey of millennia.

This is an inspection of the Labyrinth of the Minotaur in the palace of King Minos, the cave of Dikti Andron (the birthplace of Zeus), turned into a temple. Mosques of the times of the Ottoman Empire, monasteries of the fortress, castles of the Byzantine period. Along with modern buildings, the sights of different centuries, bygone civilizations harmoniously coexist.

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Rhodes

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The largest island, lost in the waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, is a magnificent resort and a treasury of the country's historical and cultural heritage. You can wander along the embankment for a long time, admiring the Rhodes fortress, listening to stories about the famous landmark, included in the 7 wonders of the world, the Colossus of Rhodes, despite the fact that the statue has been missing since 226 BC.

The capital city of Rhodes appeared in 408 BC. e. Among the numerous temples, divine sculptures was a statue of the god Helios, standing in one of the five ports of the city. This is the famous Colossus of Rhodes. Now you can walk along the street of the Knights of St. John, see the Palace of the Grand Masters (it stands on the site of the ancient temple of the god Helios), visit the ancient city of Kamiros, the Valley of the Butterflies, see the ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite. Swim in the turquoise waves of the gentle Aegean Sea, soak up the wonderful beaches of the resorts of Rhodes: Lindos, Faliraki, Kolymbia, Ixia.

At the resort of Kalithea, feel the healing effect of the famous thermal springs. Two seas, 300 sunny days a year, sandy, pebble beaches with entertainment for every taste, excellent infrastructure, numerous historical monuments of ancient cultural heritage attract a large number of tourists all year round.

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Kos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

In ancient times it was called the “Garden of the Aegean”. Lush tropical vegetation covered the entire small island, along with a significant temple complex of those times, dedicated to Asclepius. Here the famous Hippocrates founded the first medical school. The symbol is a plane tree with a trunk diameter of 12 m, which he planted.

Christian temples, part of the old city, along with a section of the fortress wall, have been preserved. The beaches allow you to go diving, surfing, yachting. The largest recreation area is the Kardamena resort. Boats with tourists regularly sail into the small bay. Many modern hotels have been built here, food, entertainment, and recreational conditions for children are organized.

Supermarkets, boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants are in any city. Fans of night entertainment can have fun until the morning in cozy nightclubs and bars. By bus, private taxi is easy to get to any part.

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Corfu

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The second largest island in the country is located in the northern part of the Ionian Sea. Here legends were born about Jason, who obtained the Golden Fleece, about the brave Odysseus, who found shelter in Corfu. The god of the seas, Poseidon, settled here the daughter of the god of the rivers and named the land area Kerkyra (Corfu in Greek). Amazing nature inspired famous artists, poets when creating their creations. Napoleon was amazed by the beauty of the surroundings. The region of Paleokastritsa is considered the cradle of the island. Numerous picturesque bays are surrounded by villages frozen right on the rocks.

Among them are modern hotels, shops, restaurants. Rich infrastructure allows you to spend any kind of recreation. For children, here is the best water park in Europe, game centers. Fans of outdoor activities are provided with a variety of sports grounds, there are schools for equestrian sports, surfing, and diving.

It is proposed to climb Mount Pantokrator (possible on donkeys). Explore the old fortress of Paleo Frurio, listen to a musical concert in it. See the temple of the Virgin among the caves of Panayia Spiliotissa, walk along the New Fortress, consider the Temple of Kardaki. Walking along the famous Liston street of the capital, choose a souvenir, visit numerous restaurants, boutiques.

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Zakynthos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The southernmost in the group of islands of the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos. It is surrounded by small beautiful bays with sandy, pebble beaches, bizarre rocks, caves, grottoes. In some bays there are springs with curative hydrogen sulfide water. The famous Blue Caves, Navajo Bay, a park with animals and plants from all over the planet Askos are located in the northern regions. Ancient fortresses, castles, Byzantine churches, modern hotels rise among the thickets of orchards. The capital city of Zakynthos has many historical monuments and museums.

Here is the beautiful church of St. Dionysius, which is popular with tourists. It contains his miraculous relics. In one of the bays there is a Caretta Caretta turtle reserve. They come here to breed. If you're lucky, you can meet the oldest tortoise, Satyris, sailing to the tourist center of Lagans.

The 100-year-old animal calmly takes food from the hands of vacationers. The beaches are small, scattered along the shores of the bays. From many places you can take part in exciting trips by sea. Excursion “Jeep Safari” allows you to make a sightseeing trip with a visit to its main attractions.

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Evbeya

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

It is separated from the mainland by several meters of three straits and keeps the history of the ancient cities of Chalkis, Eretria. Snow-covered mountain passes protect its beautiful nature and preserved historical monuments. Until now, you can see 16 active monasteries created in ancient times. There are many interesting places in Chalkis for representatives of any religion. Here are: a mosque, a synagogue, a Christian church.

A part of the Temple of Apollo, the ruins of other buildings, the fortress of Karababa have been preserved. Beach holidays (the total length of the beaches is 650 km) flourish from May to October. There is no influx of tourists, especially on the secluded shores of small bays. The Aegean Sea is clean, transparent without algae, jellyfish, which allows you to spend holidays with children.

Most hotels, inns, apartments are average. Many are on mountain slopes. There are no places for entertaining nightly fun. The best resorts are Karystos, Eretria, Edeps (with healing springs), the resort area of ​​Lichadonissia. You can pass from the mainland along the bridge, while observing the rare phenomenon of a change in the direction of water movement in the strait.

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Thassos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

A small piece of land, covered by 90% forests, is ideal for people who do not tolerate heat well. In any month of the year, there are comfortable conditions for families with small children. Silence, fabulous landscapes, an atmosphere filled with the healing aroma of pine needles, plane trees, oaks, chestnuts contribute to a good rest. You can drive around Thassos in one day and see historical sites, ancient stone monasteries.

The capital is the ancient city of Limenas. It has preserved many ancient shrines and altars. Previously, the capital was a settlement in the mountains of Theologos. Now there is an ethnographic museum, the ruins of the ancient city of Istanio. The best beach areas are called: San Antonio, Paradise, Psili Ammos, Makrimos, Glyfoneri, Marble Beach.

You can see coastal seascapes by climbing to the top of Mount Ipsario. To do this, you need to reach the village of Potamya, lurking on the mountainside. Here you can relax, visit the museum of the sculptor Vagis.

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Mykonos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

It is one of the most expensive recreation areas in the country. It is chosen by lovers of night entertainment, round-the-clock discos, show business stars, actors, wealthy businessmen. Modern hotels (they create conditions beyond luxury, beyond prices), unique infrastructure have made it a bohemian, fashionable resort. The beaches are equipped to suit any type of recreation.

There is a place for lazy sunbathing, sports games, marine entertainment, walks on snow-white yachts. On separate fashionable beaches, the bohemian part of the inhabitants of different countries gathers. The capital is Chora. In ancient times, among the labyrinth of narrow city streets, buildings made in the traditions of Cycladic architecture, the population was safely hiding from the raids of pirates. Now the city is a single complex of entertainment and trade.

The central street is filled with boutiques with clothes from the best brands in the world, jewelry stores, cafes, bars, restaurants, and art galleries. Relaxed, festive atmosphere is observed here 24 hours a day. Local residents are calm about any mood of vacationers. Especially popular is the excursion to the uninhabited island of Delos, where traces of the Aegean civilization have been preserved. The birthplace of Artemis, Apollo is protected by UNESCO.

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Tira

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

In the archipelago of the Cyclades occupies a central place. There is hardly a person who is not interested in the lost Atlantis. One version of its existence refers to the famous Santorini. In 3000 BC it was called “Round” and was inhabited. The explosion of a terrible volcano cut short life on Tire.

Only near the huge caldera in the center of the volcano are traces of the Minoan civilization preserved. The rest of the land turned into numerous islands (among them Fira, Thirasia, Aspronisi, new volcanoes in the center of the caldera), where modern life originated.

Snow-white houses grew on the slopes. Hotels, places of entertainment, equipped beach areas have appeared that provide relaxation for guests of any age. Many health centers with swimming pools, solarium, therapeutic baths, SPA salons. Along the coast there are beaches with black, white, golden sand, clear sea. There are many options for beach areas. For holidays with children, Monolithos is most often chosen with a shallow, warm section of the sea.

Fans of parties, relaxation in bars rush to the famous Perivolos beach. Romantic couples go to Thira. Many of them marry right at the top of an extinct volcano. Local legend says that such a union will be strong, indestructible. Blue roofs, white walls of the city of Santorini against the backdrop of the blue sea create an unusually beautiful view.

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Kefalonia

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

According to one of the legends, the largest island in the central part of the Ionian Sea is named after King Kefalus, who was exiled here for the murder of his wife. In Holy Scripture it is called Melit. The heavenly piece of land, sung by Homer in the Iliad, despite the devastating earthquake, has preserved many monuments of ancient antiquity, beautiful nature, places that invite you to relax. The maximum influx of tourists coincides with the Day of the Assumption of the Virgin on August 15.

This is one of the main religious events in the country. It is said that at this time, thousands of harmless snakes with crosses on their heads crawl to the church of Panagia Languvarda in the settlement of Markonulo. They are collected and brought to the icon of the Mother of God. They apply it to sore spots and believe in healing power and a good omen of a strange invasion.

Another amazing fact is the water rivers under the skeleton, passing through the Melissani cave to the lakes. The largest city is Argostilion. Modern hotels are built in it, the best beaches on the Mediterranean coast are equipped. Two monasteries have survived. In them you can see ancient icons, listen to interesting facts.

Paros

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Part of the Cyclades group. From the point of view of geology, it represents the top of a mountain hidden deep under water. Profitis Ilias peak comes to the surface. Fame brought beautiful nature, magnificent hotels, beaches along the Aegean coast (the best of them is called Kolymbithres) and the famous snow-white marble. Sculptures, statues of Hellas, which survived millennia, were created from it. Life originated here in the Stone Age.

Throughout the territory you can see traces of the Minoan, Mycenaean civilizations. The deposits of marble and its own fleet made it possible to create a strong island state here. Now the rest includes water activities, a visit to the best water park in the country with 13 different types of slides, designed for any age. It is located on the territory of the PORTO PAROS hotel, which is convenient for traveling with small children. The capital is the city of Parikia.

Here is the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin, the construction of which is associated with the legend of St. Helena, hurrying to Palestine in search of the Cross of the Lord. Archaeological Museum with the history of the island carved on a marble slab. The castle built in 1260 and many other attractions. Together with children, you can make a trip to the famous Valley of the Butterflies, where a bear butterfly lives among the pristine gorge.

Simi

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Symi (25 km from Rhodes) is only 11.5 km long and 9 km wide. In ancient times, it was the capital of the Dodecanese archipelago. It was about him that Homer wrote in Hellas. The ship of the Argonauts was built here to travel for the Golden Fleece. And not at all according to ancient legends, the inhabitants were considered the best shipbuilders. This skill and the famous fishing of sea sponges helped Simi to develop under any rulers.

At present, hotels began to appear here, the infrastructure of the city of Symi began to take shape. It is recommended to lie down on the wonderful beaches (the most famous of them is Agios Nikolaos), wander around the beautiful surroundings, having arrived from Rhodes. At the same time, in the bay of the port of Yialos, all ships are met by an interesting sculpture of a fisher boy.

Steep stairs leading to the center are visible along the coast. Some of them are difficult to overcome. At the height there are about 500 shrines in the form of Christian churches. Monasteries, chapels. Excursion routes pass through the most interesting places.

Lesbos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Among the picturesque islands of Greece, Lesvos does not stand out for its unique landscapes. Rocks, stones, the sea, the Petrified Forest dominate here. Hundreds of trees, covered with eruptions of an ancient volcano, seem to have been conserved and preserved in the atmosphere of Ancient Greece.

Tourists come to rest in these places for the sake of convenient beaches, sports activities on the water, and exciting hikes in the surroundings. Fans of ancient architecture will enjoy visiting the fortresses and monuments of the Ottoman Empire. There are many beaches along the long coastline. The most popular are the Rock of Eressos, Molyvos, the Rock of Kalonis.

Yachting, diving, windsurfing, snorkeling in the emerald waters of the Aegean Sea are offered in all recreation areas. Nearby are olive and oak groves. Some trees are over 500 years old. Fans of night entertainment will get them in numerous clubs, taverns, restaurants, bars of the capital. Interesting Greek evenings are often held here.

Aegina

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

It is chosen for an exciting beach holiday. To do this, it has over 20 convenient beach areas. The most popular of them are located near the capital. These are Avra, Agia Maria, Kolona, ​​Aeginitissa youth beach, calm Klima bay. Nearby are ancient buildings, preserved thanks to the care of the inhabitants. Until now, Aegina is decorated with columns, the foundation of the ancient Temple of Athena. It is hard to believe that the structure is over 2.5 thousand years old.

Among the beautiful nature is the monastery of St. Nektarios, which has been operating for over 100 years. Interesting holidays are held here every year. The city center is adorned with the famous Chivernio building. The first government after independence met in it, the Bishop of Aegina lived, refugees were hiding, a women's school, and an archaeological museum worked.

It now houses the Historical Archives of Greece. In the vicinity of the capital, it is proposed to see the archaeological area of ​​Colon (the remains of the temple of Apollo), ancient frescoes in the church of the Asomatia area. They get to Aegina by ship from the port of Piraeus. Vessels of different comfort depart every hour.

Idra

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

It is part of the Saronic group and is a favorite vacation spot for the inhabitants of Athens and the intelligentsia coming from many countries. In ancient times it was almost uninhabited. Pirates and refugees hid on it. From the constant raids of pirates for many years they were afraid to build private houses for permanent residence. In the XVIII century, the inhabitants mastered the principles of building ships, began to take an active part in maritime trade.

The heyday of the main city of Hydra occurred in the 16th century. The outstanding military leaders of Greece Miaoulis, Kanduriotis were born on this island. Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall worked here. Aspiring artists from Athens come here to work in the workshops of the Academy of Arts. The popularity of a small piece of land arose after the screening of the film “Boy on a Dolphin” with Sophia Loren in 1957. It quickly became a favorite place for tourists.

There are few famous beaches here (not counting Mandraki), but cheerful life in the city is always in full swing. There are especially many people walking along the stone narrow streets, visiting 300 churches, 5 monasteries on weekends. Ships with passengers, snow-white yachts often sail to the only city in Greece where the use of cars and other vehicles is prohibited. Silence, beautiful nature contribute to a good rest. For longer stays, it is suggested to choose the Miramare Hotel.

Milos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The volcanic landscape, the wealth of natural resources distinguishes it from other land areas of the western Cyclades. He gained fame thanks to the archaeological finds of the XIX century. The statue of Aphrodite, located in the Louvre, attracted lovers of history and ancient architecture to Milos. Following them, strings of people who love active beach holidays stretched here.

Pollonia became the most popular resort. Modern hotels, well-thought-out infrastructure create opportunities for a full-fledged, interesting vacation. During a break from beach activities, it is proposed to visit the archaeological area of ​​​​Filakopi and learn about the history of the emergence of the Minoan civilization. Nearby is the famous Papafranga Cave.

Four snow-white rocks surround the entrance to the dungeon. You can drive along it by boat, admiring the beauty of the mysterious kingdom, which served as a refuge for pirates. There are many unique caves, catacombs, ruins of ancient fortress walls, monasteries. The main place of residence, you can choose the capital city of Milos (Plaka).

Patmos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Wildlife attracts many travelers here. More recently, it was a quiet, secluded corner of the Aegean Sea. Cozy beaches (Kambos, Grikos, Aspri, Vayo, Meloi), numerous taverns, bars, entertainment centers, rich history, over 50 churches, monasteries, the famous cave of the Apocalypse made Patmos popular.

The apostle John lived there and wrote the Revelation. The cave is a place of pilgrimage and worship. Nearby, on the top of Mount Chora, there is a 17th century monastery. Battlements, 5 chapels are visible from different parts of the city, the coastal strip. The treasury of the monastery contains ancient Byzantine icons, embroideries, parchments, manuscripts, frescoes.

Patmos is surrounded by capes, offering an extraordinary view of the sea. Many interesting caves are hidden among them. Nature has created conditions here for recreation for every taste. Most often people come here for the whole day, not staying overnight. Patmos has the only port, Skala. All ships come to it. In the 20th century, it was included in the world heritage lists of the planet and named the “Holy Island”.

Samos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Beach lovers go to the greenest island, surrounded by tropical plants. Coastal slopes amaze with thickets of orange and olive groves. Palm trees, slender rows of cypresses, sprawling figs, rare flowering plants create a wonderful coolness, a magical mixture of flower scents along with the sea breeze.

There are no large flows of tourists, which ensures the preservation of pristine beauty. The best beach areas are Tsabu, Mikali, Tsamadu, Kokkari, Limonakkia. The entertainment season on the coast lasts from April to early November. At this time, you can swim, engage in any kind of sports activities on the water, climb steep cliffs to mountain waterfalls.

There is a paradise in the Gulf of Pythagoria. Above him rises the figure of the ancient sage Pythagoras. He lived most of his life on this island. Epicurus, Aristillus, Aristarchus were born in this place in Greece. Pirates constantly robbed the inhabitants. It was uninhabited for almost 500 years (end of the 14th to the 60s of the 15th century). Now they come here from Fr. Piraeus, Ikaria, Cyclades. From the territory of the neighboring state of Turkey.

Lefkada

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The ancient white cliffs surrounding the western part of the island of the Ionian Sea gave it the name “White Island”. Its main wealth is sandy beach areas. On the world-famous 7000 km long Kathisma Beach, you can simultaneously be on the shores of the turquoise sea and under the natural sunshades created by the roofs of the overhanging cliffs.

Many caves have formed in the rocks, available for inspection. Their size is amazing, for example, ships hid in the Papanikolis cave during the hostilities. On one of the slopes, the buildings of the town of Perigiali froze, where you can stop for a rest. In my spare time, it is interesting to learn about history.

Look at the preserved ruins of ancient fortresses, monasteries, ordinary dwellings. Go to the beautiful waterfalls of Nydri, visit the Archaeological Museum, an art gallery. An important attraction is the bridge leading to the mainland. From here you can see the fortress of St. Maura, the town of Lefkada with its special architecture.

Skiathos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Tourism began to develop here recently. Numerous beaches (equipped and wild, located in small bays) quickly gained popularity. Water sports, equipped roads for driving cars, mopeds, motorcycles attract guests here.

The opportunity to visit nightclubs, cafes, restaurants, noisy discos made Skiathos interesting for young people. The best beach areas are located in the southern part. This is Koukounaries, Banana Nudist Beach. Elias. Mandraki, Agistros Beach, Hanemos, which turns into a fun open-air disco at night. Burtzi Fortress is located near the central harbor.

It used to be the main residence of the Venetians. Now it houses a library, a theater and a museum. Many monasteries have survived. Among them are “Panagia Kunistra”, “Evangelistria”. The most lively place in the main city is considered to be a beautiful embankment. It has boutiques and cafes. restaurants, taverns, souvenir shops. Geographically, it is part of the Northern Sporades.

Icarus

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Like any other Greek island, Ikaria has an interesting legend about its appearance. The mythical hero Icarus fled from Fr. Crete and collapsed into the sea (Ikarian) next to the island called Ikaria. On the embankment of the capital Agnos Kirikos, you can see a monument in the form of legendary wings. The favorable climate, natural products grown in Ikaria, numerous beaches with a convenient descent into the sea make it popular for summer holidays.

This is especially important for combining it with healing treatment in radioactive hot springs. Here, since ancient times, water from 8 sources has been used. Maybe this is one of the reasons for the appearance of the centenarians of Greece in this place. Now health resorts have been created on the basis of the springs, spa salons are operating. The best beaches of Ikaria are Fles, Miliopo, Armeistis, Prioni, Kambos, the beaches of the village of Yaliskari.

Many small towns and villages. The Koschini Fortress, standing on the top of Mount Afera and visible from any point, is considered a symbol. Comfortable viewing platforms are equipped inside the fortress. Archeology lovers can walk through endless caves where artifacts of ancient civilizations have been found.

And so

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

According to ancient legends, Odysseus reigned in Ithaca. History lovers are still looking for archaeological items confirming this fact. The important port of the Mediterranean Sea, Ithaca was the capital of the Ionian kingdom, distinguished by its power. Today it has become a favorite place for tourists. Romantic bays, pristine beaches (Loutsa, Filliatro), groves of tropical trees are conducive to a good rest.

The main attractions can be seen in the capital Vathi. Having settled in one of the hotels in the city, it is proposed to start acquaintance with the cave of the Nymphs of Marmarospili, the settlement of Alalkomen, associated with the legend of Odysseus. Near the source of Aretuza there is a cave in which Eumeus the swineherd sheltered him.

On the coast, it is a pleasure to snorkel, participate in sports activities on the water, rent a boat, a yacht, participate in trekking in beautiful surroundings, go rock climbing. In the evenings, you have the opportunity to sit in small cafes, taverns, decorated with original paintings by local artists.

Naxos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

A piece of land in the middle of the Aegean Sea is often called the island of Ariadne. Walking along its rocky streets, surrounded by the marble walls of ancient buildings, it seems that the heroes from ancient legends come to life and participate in modern life. The impression is intensified when looking at the Portara gate (the supposed entrance to the temple of Apollo), the Kastro fortress, the Baseos castle.

You begin to believe that Dionysus was born here, Zeus lived. It is considered the largest of the Cyclades archipelago. On it is a high mountain Zas, towering above the sea. Numerous churches and windmills stand along Naxos. Residents were among the first to make sculptures from snow-white marble. Ancient statues of young men (kouros) are in the Archaeological Museum of Athens. The tourism business begins to develop and every year more and more guests come here.

It is proposed to spend a beach holiday on a 100-kilometer coastal zone (St. George, Procopius, Anna), there is an opportunity to sunbathe, swim, participate in various sports activities on the water. For lovers of night fun, there are many cafes, nightclubs, open-air discos in the rays of an unusually beautiful sunset.

Chios

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

It is located in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea and is famous for its sandy beaches, amazing architecture of small villages, famous mastic trees. Since ancient times, their inhabitants used mastic (called “Tears of Christ”) for many purposes: medicinal, cosmetic, for drinks, sweets. Accommodation is not offered in hotels, expensive hotels, villas, apartments.

Acquaintance is best to start with hiking through the streets of his villages. There are no such beautiful houses anywhere else in Greece. They are decorated with original ornaments made in the xist style. These are the medieval settlements of Pirgi, Olympi, where there is a cave with numerous stalactites, stalagmites. See the rock of Dascalopetra where Homer taught his disciples. Monastery of Nea Moni, 11th century.

The pristine nature, sandy, pebble beaches (Karfas, Mavra Volna, Gerita, Ayia Markela) provide recreation areas equipped with everything you need. It is very popular entertainment on the water, walks in the sea on yachts, catamarans, water skiing. Along the coast there are cozy bays for secluded relaxation. In the cities of Karfas, Chios there are many nightclubs, restaurants, places for entertainment.

Paxos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

A small, green paradise on earth, lost in the Ionian Sea, among hundred-year-old olive trees (there are over 3000 of them), ancient healing springs allows you to spend an unforgettable vacation. About 2500 people live. They grow olives and produce oil that is considered the best in Greece. Residents are always glad to tourists and offer expensive stone villas and apartments for living.

Three small cities: Gaios (capital), Lohtos, Lakka. According to ancient legend, the sea god Poseidon formed two islands with a trident strike: Paxi and Antipaxi. It is convenient to see them during a boat tour. At the same time, listen and visit at least one of the 40 sea caves hidden behind the majestic and mysterious vaults of overhanging rocks.

Hiking will definitely pass through the Sacred Olive Grove, next to the ancient wells for collecting rainwater and lead to the famous healing springs. In addition to an amazing beach holiday, you can evaluate their effect on your own body. It also offers rare varieties of Phidias and Petrocorinth wines.

Karpathos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

The tourism business on the island of the Aegean Sea began to develop recently. Surfers from all over the world have been the first to discover amazing places (near Cape Leakey) for their favorite activities. Luxurious beaches (for example, Afiartis) often began to receive guests, surprising with their capabilities. Modern resorts (Kira-Panagia) have grown. Here are the best beaches, taverns, restaurants in Greece.

It annually hosts the famous festival in honor of the Assumption of the Virgin. In the second half of August it is filled with crowds of tourists. Small settlements (Volada, Piles, Ofos, Stes) come alive with bright national costumes.

The sounds of ancient windmills, the dizzying aroma of plants. Virgin nature, original Greek settlements with their traditions have become popular with lovers of unexplored routes. During hikes, you can see the ruins of the ancient settlement of Potideon, the ancient acropolis in Arkas, the ruins of a Christian temple of the 4th century. The capital is the city of Karpathos. It has many modern buildings, including comfortable hotels, inns.

Nisiros

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

A trip here is chosen by lovers of volcanoes. You can stay here for several days, having agreed with the locals or staying in hotels in the only city of Mandraki. Most often, tourists choose a sightseeing visit to Nisyros. At this time, you can see the main attraction: the active volcano Nisyros. It erupted for the last time many years ago. But the volcano is alive and active.

Its underground sounds are heard, yellow sulfur is constantly emitted, filling the surroundings with an unpleasant smell. The road leading to the sleeping abyss is difficult. The inhabitants kept it this way to show real volcanic power and not to disturb the sleeping giant Polybot, according to the existing ancient legend. Walk among the smoking craters lasts about an hour. Then the route covers the sights of the city of Mandraki. Its blue and white architecture is similar to the famous city of Santorini.

You can see the ruins of the Paleokastro fortress, wander through the medieval streets, visit the museum, the Church of the Cave Virgin. Women suffering from infertility constantly come to her, and she helps them. On the same day the journey ends. But you can hear the sounds of life lurking near the volcano by staying here at least for a day.

Andros

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Located in the Aegean Sea. A necklace of majestic mountains, canyons, steep slopes, endless citrus groves, streams of falling water flying into the sea, have made it one of the most beautiful of the Cyclades archipelago. Now it is a well-developed tourist center of the country. 99 beautiful beaches surround it on all sides along a 110 km long coastline.

The created infrastructure allows you to meet any needs of vacationers: lazy beach, active among sea activities, hiking in the surroundings. The most popular beach recreation areas are Vligada, Limnaki, Zorkos, Pyrgo. Modern hotel buildings, the main tourist center are located on the coast among a beautiful landscape, cozy villages.

There are many restaurants, cafes, swimming pools, entertainment centers for children and adults. Magnificent health resorts, SPA salons offer services based on treatment with healing water from local sources. In your spare time, it is a must to visit the capital, the ancient city of Chora. Walk along the footpaths made of marble slabs, admire the architecture of elegant old mansions, visit its museums and churches.

Skopelos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

Or otherwise Kalokeri (Summer), who gained fame thanks to the filming of the film Mamma Mia. It is not the greenest in the Northern Sporades Archipelago group, but its numerous coves with secluded beaches, abundance of fruits, natural healing agents, have long made it an attractive holiday destination for the population of large Greek cities.

125 churches, numerous burial places of different civilizations of mankind, mild climate make staying on it comfortable and pleasant. Here are the famous beaches of Velona, ​​Stafilos. Unlike other resort islands, silence, peace, and the pristine beauty of nature reign here. During walking tours, guests are invited to climb to the top of Mount Delphi, move above the pine groves and see four depressions in the rock, preserved traces of the life of their ancestors.

These niches are Neolithic burials. According to the existing legend, the ashes of the first ruler Stafil or the son of the legendary names of Aphrodite and Dionysus lie somewhere here. Finding a place to stay is easy. These are the usual offers of hotel rooms, villas, apartments.

Lemnos

30 best Greek islands for holidays - list, photo, description, map

In accordance with ancient mythology, a small piece of land in the Aegean Sea was called the island of the fire god Hercules. It appeared as a result of the efforts of an ancient volcano. Here live the myths about Aphrodite, Odysseus agronauts led by Janson, the origin of the Minyans from the connection of the Amazons with them. Life on Lemnos has been going on for over 2500 years. His settlement of Polynochia is one of the most ancient places of residence in Europe. There is no mass influx of tourists here.

Despite the fact that in terms of the length of beaches it ranks fourth among all the islands of the country. Most of the beach areas are located in the vicinity of the capital. Among the best sandy beaches are Makrys Yalos, Louri, Agios Ioannis, Keros with a comfortable, gentle descent into the sea. There are many hotels with rooms of different levels: Porto Myrina Palace Hotel, Porto Plaza Hotel, Varos Village, Lemnos Village Resort Hotel. It is useful for vacationers to know that it is difficult to find more fragrant white dessert and dry wines throughout the country than in Lemnos.

Vineyards from Alexandrian Muscat allow you to create real wine masterpieces according to the ancient traditions of winemaking. Even folk wine with Retsina resin turns out to be special here. For a long time you can remember the taste of the local feta cheese, “calafaki”, ripening in traditional baskets, forming an amazing pattern on the cheese heads. Or Akhiladelis halva made from sesame seeds.

Travel will bring pleasure at any time of the year. You just need to know that the climate here is Mediterranean with dry, warm summers and wet, cool winters. Having chosen a summer vacation in August, you need to prepare for the heat above 40. The high season is the period from June to September. Surrounded by three seas, the warm sea helps to endure the heat.

To avoid the influx of tourists, it is recommended to plan a trip in July. In August, it is better to make a choice at the resorts of the northern regions. From November to April, mountain resorts with ski slopes, acquaintance with the sights will fill the impressions of outdoor enthusiasts. At this time, the popularity of resorts located near thermal springs is growing.

Choosing a vacation spot with children is a difficult problem. It all depends on the age of the child, his physical fitness, health. The general requirement is the convenience of beaches, safe sea, comfortable living. The best time to travel with children is May, June, September, October. It is very hot here in July and August. The group of islands in the Ionian Sea is distinguished by the best areas for family holidays. These are Corfu, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Kos, Thassos are often chosen in the Aegean Sea. In the archipelago of the Northern Sporades, Skiathos and Skopelos enjoy the advantage. Alonissos. The Eastern Sporades invite you to relax in Samos, Chios, Lesvos. The Cyclades offer an introduction to the incomparable Santorini.

Islands of Greece on the map

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