14 photos. The Greek islands ignite the imagination and satisfy the soul with a history laced in mythical tales and told through ancient, sun-bleached ruins. To stay with the mythology theme, don't miss a boat tour on the mighty Odysseia, a colorful replica of a Greek war ship. Cyclades, Greek Islands, Paros. The beauty and magic of this island have made it one of the top honeymoon . The latest novelty is the first-ever Greek underwater museum, a perfectly preserved shipwreck dating from 425BC, which lies on the seabed beside the island of Peristera. The best thing about this town is that motor vehicles are prohibited. Crystal clear blue water, white sandy beaches, phenomenal sunsets, amazing history & culture and of course, we cannot forget the food. Of Greece's nearly 6,000 islands, islets and rocks in the sea, 227 are inhabited. 14/18 The Diapontian Islands. Plus, the island's close proximity with nearby volcanic Greek island Nisyros along with European hidden gem Kalymnos makes wonderful day trips. Greece was one of the summer's most popular tourism destinations, especially the most popular islands. 1. See Related: Best Credit Cards for Travel Perks. This dynamic road trip takes you through some of mainland Greece's best kept secrets, starting with a mythology tour of the Acropolis in Athens and a visit to the wineries in Nemea. Image credit: Valentini Argyropoulou. The Greek Islands may number in the hundreds, but with less than a week . It is a charming little island deeply rooted in the Greek tradition . Trizonia is the only inhabited island in the Corinthian Gulf and is just 550 yards (500m) off the Greek mainland, west of Athens. Another hidden gem of Greece's Islands. Paros is an island in the Aegean Sea, south of the more famous Mykonos. In the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades Islands are the most-visited group and include some of the most popular islands, including Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Milos and Ios. Discover five hidden-gem Greek islands 1 / 58. Gidaki Beach is the most attractive beach with its white shiny pebbles. Santorini is also famous as a honeymoon island thanks to the wonderful hotels that dot the volcano rim - perched high, with sea views and infinity pools, the hotels of Santorini have romance written all over them. Paxoi, also known as Paxos and Paxi, is a tiny island gem only a few nautical miles of the south shores of Corfu. Santorini, Greece . Overshadowed by its more famous neighbors Mykonos and Santorini, it has managed to escape mainstream international attention. Iced freddo cappuccinos. Gaios, the main town on the island, is hidden from the sea by a 'fjord' of smaller wooded islands. Pano Koufonissi is inhabited, so it has tourist facilities, while Kato Koufonissi is uninhabited and often visited for beach trips only. Antipaxos, Ionian Islands. Rhodes, an island part of the Dodecanese island group stands fourth in the largest Greek island list . . The cave consists of a network of tunnels carved under the Pendeli Mountain. 6. Ikaria is an island of villages that march to a different drummer. Enjoy the salty sea air and Mediterranean sun as she sets her white sails, enchanted by the glistening expanse of the Aegean Sea. Amoudi Bay is easy to miss when visiting Santorini. Amorgos. Technically part of Plaka, Anafiotika feels like a different world and is easily one of the best hidden gems in Athens. Clustered into the steep hills beside the Acropolis, it is almost impossible to describe to you how this area can be hidden and yet so close to the country's main attraction. It has approximately 62 miles of coastline and the main island stretches for 14 miles from North to South with a width of 4 miles. So you can quietly explore this town on foot. Greece has somewhere between 2,000 and 6,000 islands and islets scattered through the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which a little over 200 are inhabited. This has allowed it to maintain that Greek island life character so unique to this part of the world. Boasting the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Europe, the island is a must-visit for people who prefer quiet holidays in Greece. Usually, tourists go to the Acropolis, which is the most famous sight of the city and also a lovely viewpoint. Its myriad of colors, spectacular beaches and clear aquamarine sea are truly something that must be seen to . But to be fair, the Greek Islands in general are a dream place for many travelers seeking azure waters and sandy beaches. On sleepy Kimolos, visitors will find Greek island life at its unrushed finest. Sifnos island, in the Greek Cyclades, is a hidden gem in Greece. Excellent. It is second largest Dodecanese Island and fifteenth island of Greece with 116 sq. Most Greek islands are known for their beaches, but Skiathos features some of the region's best. These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Greek Islands. Picture by Olaf Tausch. 7 Nights. Cyclades, Greek Islands, Paros. Here are our top reasons to visit Milos. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the volcano that shaped Santorini. An hour ferry ride from Skiathos (or 15 minutes on a high-speed boat), the island of Skopelos is so picture-perfect (hidden coves, blue-roofed tavernas, hundreds of Byzantine-era churches) that . Take a look at our list of the nine best Greek island cruises lines for an unforgettable island-hopping odyssey. The tiny island of Paxos is supposedly the result of Poseidon cutting off a small piece of Corfu with his trident. Getting to Trizonia is relatively easy by road as far as the village of Hania / Chania (155mi/250km from Athens, 47mi/75km from Delphi), from . Here are five of the best laid-back Greek islands we've visited. Budget: When it comes to Heraklion with a limited budget, check the great comfort of So Young Hostel. After being tendered into Skala, the main . Syros is a hidden gem in the Cyclades Islands, despite being the capital. Overshadowed by its more famous neighbors Mykonos and Santorini, it has managed to escape mainstream international attention. That said, Patmos was a true pleasure to visit and Patmos is a hidden gem in the Greek Islands where there aren't many secrets left to keep! Anafiotika. Those with facilities and watersports include . Located on a hilltop, the property is only 20' on foot from the beach of Kalo Ambeli, the most popular beach on the island, while it boasts utter privacy and seclusion. The gorgeous island is a favorite destination for Greeks, especially those living in Athens. But, there is an island, which I totally love, and I am a huge fan, although it might not have the glam and the nightlife of Mykonos (find our dedicated post here . Ikarians seem to have discovered the secret to long life and have a . You can also explore deserted monasteries in the mountains, splash around under the Nidri waterfalls and swim at some of Greece's most famous and beautiful beaches. 5 HIDDEN GEMS OF THE GREEK ISLANDS Greece is the dream. Less than 30 people live on Antipaxos, the three-mile large islet one mile off the coast of Paxos. The island of Amorgos in the Cyclades is surrounded by deep blue waters and it is quite steep. . 7 hidden gems among the Greek islands August 8, 2015, 1:00 am Next Briton arrested on suspicion of killing 18yo compatriot in Malia, Crete Five hidden-gem Greek islands. A hidden gem in the Aegean Sea, Thassos is just over an hour (13.9km) from mainland Greece, and you can easily get here from the port at Keramoti. 2. Religion in Greece - Churches, Greek Easter and Christian names; Greek Easter Traditions - Greek Orthodox Easter Food and Customs . 2. Amorgos is the hidden gem of the Cyclades. The island is most famous for its beaches, but has so much more to offer than a beach vacation. Thus, the famous Greek mythology is based on this cave. Five hidden-gem Greek islands . This has allowed it to maintain that Greek island life character so unique to this part of the world. Tinos Island (Cyclades) Located just 20 minutes from Mykonos on the fast ferry, Tinos is a must-visit on any island-hopping trip through the Cyclades. . In my honest opinion, these are the cream of the crop! Reserve a table. Prices here are lower than on more touristy islands such as Mykonos and . Santorini is one of the most romantic places in Europe and one of the best Greek islands for couples looking to enjoy an amazing, romantic getaway. Many visitors come to the islands with an ingrained image: Whitewashed houses and churches . xxxxxxxxxxx More. . 6. Other unique places in Greece - Mount Athos, Philippi, Meteora and Mycenae. When you think of Santorini, you probably think of the crowded towns of Thera, the island's main town, and Oia, famous for its sunsets. Then head into the picturesque Peloponnese Region where you'll discover the ancient ruins in Sparta, the medicinal tales . A relaxing holiday here is hardly like anywhere else, even within Greece. Sitting at the foot of the Profitis Ilias Mountain, Emporio is situated less than seven miles southeast of Fira. We placed Sifnos front and center in our recent Greek Island hopping itinerary and the island of Sifnos was a highlight of the trip. . For something a bit wilder and mixed with traditional easy-going villages, have a visit here. - Greek Islands. 6. The Monastery Republic of Mount Athos. This quiet island appeals to nature lovers with its . But beyond the classic whitewashed villas, there are places where the crowds thin and you can appreciate more facets of this Aegean gem. Syros is a hidden gem in the Cyclades Islands, despite being the capital. Skinari Beach Ithaca. Trizonia, seen from the mainland. You'll find them clustered in the northwest of Corfu, close to Italy, and are made up of the small islands of Mathraki, Erikoussa . Paros is a great place to explore some of the local cuisine without spending a lot. I absolutely loved this cute, tranquil island. Sikinos - The ultimate Cycladic island for a quiet holiday. Hidden gems of Zante The Strofades, more islands to explore. Here are our top suggestions for where to stay in Crete. 1. Hike up here in the late afternoon to enjoy a magical sunset all to yourself. Serifos is a hidden gem. . Amoudi Bay - Oia, Santorini. Emporio. Azamara Cruises offers longer times in . Karpathos. Koufonissia "Hidden away between the larger Cycladic islands of Naxos and Amorgos, Koufonissia (plural) is made up of two tiny islets, Ano Koufonissi (Upper Koufonissi) and Kato Koufonissi . . Santorini. Contents: 15 Unique and secret places in Greece. Whilst Cofu is probably better known as a popular tourist destination, the Diapontian Islands are less notorious and yet are perfect locations to escape far away from the crowds. Prepare for high, bare, rocky mountains that alternate with green slopes, flowing streams and beaches that could have been imported from the South Seas. 1 / 51. Ikaria: Where the slow life turns into a festival. Hidden Gems of Mainland Greece - 12 Days. Athos is one of the best hidden gems in Greece. Walking through the Asklepion and Agora will show you a glimpse into Greek history, while walks in Plaka Forest or explorations at thermal hot springs . A mystery surrounds the 15th-century fortified monastery here. August 1, 2017 June 16, 2019. Sights; Restaurants; Shopping; Entertainment; Unique romantic places in Greece - Skiathos, Folegandros and Rethymnon. Lefkada is among some of the most visually stunning quiet Greek islands for holidays. Folegandros is a hidden gem in the Aegean, with a cliff-hanging whitewashed village (known locally as hora), rugged but stunning landscapes and beaches hugging the side of high promontories . Restaurants in Lefkada. The remote island is definitely not for everyone. . 6. The best known is the Dionysiou Monastery that you may . 25317 Northern Blvd, Little Neck, NY 11362-1467 +1 718-279-5922. Reaching the islands entails a flight to Corfu then an hour's ferry ride. Unique Greek Islands - Ikaria, Delos, Santorini, Milos and Skyros. Where: Ithaka is one of the Ionian islands, off the northeast coast of Kefalonia. The most northerly Greek island, Thassos gets a lot more rain than others in the Aegean Sea, meaning that it's very green. A hidden gem in the Greek Islands. How to get to this spectaculars island? You can find hidden Greek gems in the middle of August - if you know where to look. This island has stayed under the radar with travelers heading to Greece and in turn it has kept its authentic charm completely intact. Far beyond the usual Greek island suspects are less-touristy gems where you experience a more authentic Greek lifestyle without forfeiting vibrant village life and sun-splashed beaches. The island has over 200,000 olive trees, about a hundred per person that lives on the island. Symi island, one hidden gem that you should visit! Greek Islands . miles (300 km 2) area. Kos is full also of historical wonders. Whether you want to get your fill on culture & history, be an absolute beach bum with a cocktail in hand, living that tru island life or do both . Whether you are looking for charm, history, beautiful architecture 27 Photos of Syros, Greece That Will Ignite Your Wanderlust - Brogan Abroad Sikinos is one of the least known quiet Greek islands in the Cyclades, even among Greeks. Getty Images/iStockphoto. Why go: The epic island home of wandering Odysseus may be famous in world literature, but this hidden gem is mostly unknown to tourists. Nick Kontis for USA TODAY. Visit the white-washed buildings and 1000-year old houses in the charming town of Chora. The island is a long and spindly shape, with rugged mountains and stunning natural scenery. Unique hidden gems in Greece - Monemvasia, Kythera and Kefalonia. Where to Stay. Davelis Cave is one of the most mysterious places in Greece that has oftentimes been linked to paranormal activities. Website. Locals reported suspicions of paranormal activities throughout . 1. 1. A hidden gem among the Cyclades islands, there are so many things to do in Syros. You might be surprised to find the largest island in Greece on a list of the most laid-back Greek islands but you can find some hidden gems if you stay away from the main towns and resorts . That really is what favorites like Santorini and Mykonos . We've recommended Sifnos, Greece to friends and . A little hidden gem! Improve this listing. Narayan is a private luxury villa in Serifos that enjoys panoramic views of the rough Cycladic hills and the cobalt Aegean Sea. Whether you visit for a day or stay for a week, Santorini is typically at the top of many people's list of Greek Islands to visit. Cruise for 8 days and 7 nights, visiting the island jewels of the Cyclades while sailing on an elegant small, yacht-like ship that offers comfort and old-style beauty. Hidden Gems in Greece. Our 8 days road trip itinerary in Chania region, in Crete! However, Serifos is a quiet and slow-paced island that avoids the overwhelming number of summer tourists. Share Many visitors come to the Greek islands with an ingrained image: Whitewashed houses and churches with vivid blue accents, crisp burnt orange sunsets, a labyrinth of narrow streets where a slant of sunlight peaks through the alabaster town square. Lycabettus Hill. By Oksana & Max of Drink Tea and Travel. We're back to elaborate and highlight different aspects of Greece's beauty with some mesmerizing hidden gems of the Aegean islands. But every summer day hundreds of visitors to Paxos make the 15-minute . Crete, . Like all Ionian islands, Ithaca's coastline is surrounded by the lush vegetation of pine trees, providing shade and protection. Emporio, the island's largest village and former hub for trade and commercial affairs, is one of Santorini's best hidden gems. This is the tallest point in the city and it is a great place to visit. Share on linkedin. This peaceful village will afford you a candid picture of what life is truly like in . Paxos is located in the Ionian chain of Greek islands on the mainland's west coast. On the island, you will find lush vegetation and multiple stunning beaches. Ferry rides from the . 2. . Hot, sunny days. Share on facebook. One of the best hidden gems in Athens, Greece is the Lycabettus Hill. Andros has a glut of stunning wild beaches, including Zorkos, Vitali, Achla (the most difficult to reach), and Pidima tis Grias (old woman's leap). 20 Monasteries glorify this beautiful region of Greece. The exclusive Greek peninsula resort where J Lo, Kylie Minogue and Cristiano Ronaldo have holidayed; Skiathos: the hidden gem of the Greek islands; Is celebrity-favourite Mykonos the new Ibiza of . Karpathos is hidden in plain sight. From $2,990 pp. Perivolos Beach, Santorini - One of the best beaches in Greece for families. In most cases, budget means hotel stays for around $40 a night, mid-range is from about $50-80 per night, and luxury will cost over $100 per night. The best months to enjoy the Greek islands without the extreme temperatures and tourist crowds are late April, May, June . 5 hidden-gems in the Greek islands. The views of the white-washed buildings and steep cliffs of Santorini are some of the most iconic in the world. Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most famous Greek islands, and especially during the high season, they can be very crowded. Wedged in between Crete and Rhodes, this Dodecanese island gets the tourist numbers of neither - yet is one of the most fascinating Greek islands. You can camp along the coast, hotel it for a few days or just go for a day trip. Paleochora is a locals favorite getaway and a tourists hidden gem. My favorite Greek Islands are Santorini, Thassos, Rhodes, Crete, Corfu, Samothraki, and Naxos. 3 halloumi gyros (winning), tzatziki, and SO much more. Located in northern Greece, 2 hours drive from Thessaloniki, "The Monastic Republic of Mount Athos", holds a record of monasteries per square metre. The smallest and one of the least commercialized of the Ionians, it's known as the romantic hideaway of the god Poseidon. Almost connected to big brother Milos Island by a 15-minute ferry ride, Kimolos remains under the radar. Some of the best-hidden gem beaches in Greece are on Kofonisi Island. In 1951 and 1962, scientific excavations discovered artifacts which included an ancient lamp, plates, figures of the nymphs, and God Pan . Azamara Greek Island Cruises. Only 37 nautical miles from Zante, these two islets are unknown to most tourists, Greek or foreign. Lefkada. The mythical island of Ithaca, the homeland of legendary Odysseus, is a hidden gem of the Ionian Sea. 6 Ithaka - The mythical island. Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most famous Greek islands, and especially during the high season, they can be very crowded. I should've known that Patmos would be awesome when I awoke to this unbelievable sunrise as viewed from my stateroom on the Azamara Quest cruise ship. It has been named after the bandit, Davelis, who used this cave as his secret hideout. Dive into the deep blue away from the crowds. Gaios - Paxos. Our favourite beaches in Greece - Popular beaches and hidden gems; Greek Culture. Due to its small size and lack of an airport, the island doesn't really attract package holiday crowds and is still among the hidden gems in Europe. (it can get super windy on the south side of the Island and you may not have the . These places will leave one feeling in awe and inspired with its natural beauty that has kept under wrapped. 10 Hidden Gems of the Greek Islands. Nisos Yacht Charter. 19. It's hard to find a Greek island that doesn't get flooded with tourists during the summer months. Share on google. With plenty of connecting flights . . Located between its neighbouring islands, Ios and Folegandros, it's truly a hidden gem in the Aegean. United States ; New York (NY) Queens ; Little Neck ; Little Neck Restaurants ; Greek Islands; Search "A little hidden gem!" Review of Greek Islands. February 27, 2019 by Iuliana Marchian 7 minute read. Perivolos Beach, Santorini. We first stumbled upon the hidden gem when researching the best Greek islands to visit outside of Santorini and Mykonos. Built in 1887, it stands on a 60m cliff, giving you unparalleled views of the bay with its islets, the all-white town of Naoussa, and even the Cycladic islands to the north. Greece has somewhere between 2,000 and 6,000 islands and islets scattered through the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which a little over 200 are inhabited. Picturesque streets host traditional Greek shops, lavish boutiques . Ithaca is a hidden gem of the Ionian Sea. Hidden Gems of Santorini; Hidden Gems of Santorini Romantic and iconic, Santorini is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. The traditional charm of this Greek island will make you fall in love with Greece all over again. Milos is a lesser-known and lesser-visited Greek island, located to the west of Santorini. It's a wooded, hilly island with a jagged coast. However, you should not miss out on Lycabettus Hill when going to Athens. . The magical island of Santorini, Greece. Interesting fact is that the Karpathos was Italian territory for 1947. so it is possible to see a lot of Italian architecture. Share on twitter. 4. The country has a lot to offer to those who want to do something different and not all . While many tourists don't know much about Serifos, the island is beloved by Greeks around the country, who . Its 10 guests will unwind in the main house . Updated on 10/01/2022. Promenade through the charming village of Oa, only a 5 minutes walk from Mystique, with the cave-style houses and blue-domed churches sprinkled on top of rugged caldera cliffs. The island of Paros. Where to eat and drink in Tinos!