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Greece for beginners - overview, recommendations and important tips

Everything you need to know before your next vacation

Greece, a spectacular island nation, the cradle of Western civilization, is a land where myths come to life and where the sun never seems to set.

This ancient country, known for its famous and historic past, its iconic landmarks and its never-ending legends and mythological stories, also boasts some of the most beautiful islands and some would even be described as breathtaking.

For both families and couples looking for the perfect escape, the Greek islands promise an ideal setting, where azure waters hug the golden sands and the aroma of olive groves fills the air.

But, when we have a choice of over 200 inhabited islands to choose from, how do we know which ones provide the most memorable experiences?

So, let's take a journey through some of the most recommended islands in Greece.

More articles about Greece

Recommended islands in Greece for couples

In general, almost all the islands are recommended for a couple's vacation in Greece, at the same time there are some islands that are considered especially romantic and very suitable for a great vacation, if you are looking for recommendations for couple's islands in Greece remember the following list:

Mykonos, santorini, Rhodes, Zakynthos, Kos andCorfu

Recommended islands in Greece for a vacation with children

If we are traveling with children, it is recommended to take islands that are large and have a wide variety of attractions, islands that can be suitable are: 

Rhodes, Crete, Athens andCorfu

There are several other options, but these are the most recommended islands!

The most recommended islands in Greece and a little about them...

Crete

An island filled with a majestic mosaic of ancient ruins, plateaus and green hills next to captivating white and golden beaches, Crete is shaping up to be a land of myths and stunning landscapes.

Dive deep into Minoan palaces or savor the culinary delights of the island.

The southern location of the island of Crete (Crete) provides it with sunny days for an extended period of the year, and it is characterized by fine field crops, including avocados and bananas.

But beyond all these, Crete symbolizes for many Greek cuisine at its best, and it includes unique authentic foods, as well as an abundance of local drinks such as the famous aniseed drink Raki.

In addition, Crete is the largest and most populated island in Greece, the island offers a host of rich and endless experiences and attractions, from the mythological birthplace of Zeus in the cave of Ideon to the ancient ruins of Knossos, history comes alive here.

Families with children can enjoy beautiful beaches, walk in the gorges and enjoy the amazing cuisine of Crete.

The city is known for its amazing beaches, including the unbelievable pink sand beach - Elafonisi Beach, ancient ruins and spectacular picturesque towns.

Why is this island so recommended for family vacations you ask?

Crete's varied landscape suggests that there is at least one attraction to suit everyone, be it water parks for children, enriching historical tours or just lazy days spent lazing on the beach.

Rhodes

This sun-drenched island is a treasure trove of medieval wonders, as you cross its cobbled streets, hear the tales of the knights echoing in your head, and smell the aroma of Greek cuisine that will awaken your senses, boasting a lively nightlife similar to the islands of Kos, Corfu and Mykonos - but it Definitely surpasses them!

It is highly recommended to go to the bar area in the old town of Rhodes, some of which have notorious reputations.

Rhodes is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks and endless nightlife, the island is home to the Acropolis of Rhodes, a well-preserved ancient city, and the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The island is also home to the Acropolis of Lindos, an ancient citadel with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medieval Old Town of Rhodes is a testament to the island's rich history, with its fortresses, ancient temples and peaceful beaches, Rhodes beautifully blends the old with the new.

Why is the island so recommended for families?

The island offers plenty of activities to suit a variety of people, including visiting the Valley of the Butterflies, luxurious accommodation and dining, and exploring ancient Camiros.

Mykonos

Mykonos is an island known for its spectacular beaches, trendy nightlife and picturesque whitewashed houses.

The island is home to the famous windmills of Mykonos, which are a popular tourist attraction, the island of Mykonos is also home to the island of Delos, which was the center of the ancient Greek world, and is home to many ancient ruins and artifacts.

Mykonos, known as the "Island of Ghosts", offers picturesque beaches and a young and lively atmosphere with its trendy beach clubs and lively nightlife, on the other hand, it also has quieter corners and family-friendly places.

Families can enjoy the southern beaches, while couples can lose themselves in the charm of Mykonos Town or enjoy a lively nightlife.

Mykonos, often referred to as the Ibiza of Greece, is a whirlwind of fascinating nightlife, tangled and narrow streets alongside golden beaches.

The hotels in Greece are not considered the finest, but the situation changes when you reach the island of Mykonos (Mykonos), where boutique hotels are first class.

Mykonos and Santorini are smaller islands than the two big islands of Crete and Rhodes, but they are full of tourists in all the tourist months, if you have decided that you want to go to one of the islands, reserve tickets and accommodations, well in advance!

Santorini

Santorini is a beautiful island with amazing views of the Aegean Sea and you can find equally breathtaking sunsets.

The island is known for whitewashed houses, churches with blue domes and spectacular black sand beaches.

Santorini is also home to the ancient city of Akrotiri, which was buried in volcanic ash and has ancient buildings and frescoes that are well preserved to this day.

On the famous cliffs of Santorini, you can discover a spectacular sight in the form of the towns of Oia and Fira, both of which have spectacular vantage points for the Aegean Sea and unforgettable sunsets.

The destination is very suitable for couples, the romantic environment of Santorini, with its charming streets, boutique hotels and intimate dining places overlooking the sea, makes it a favorite holiday destination for honeymooners and couples.

Bursting onto the scene with its iconic Cobalt Dome chapels and mighty cliffs, Santorini dazzles with sunsets so brilliant they seem to set the sky on fire.

This island is a mesmerizing tapestry of volcanic beaches and romantic landscapes.

It is recommended to reach the island of Santorini (Santorini) by sea, thus enjoying the arrival accompanied on the one hand by the deep blue sea and on the other hand by the massive basalt cliffs that tower above.

Corfu

Corfu is a green hilly island known for its stunning beaches, picturesque towns and Venetian-influenced architecture.

The island is home to Achilleion Palace, a beautiful palace built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled streets and ancient buildings.

Even on this well-known island, pleasant spots can be found, especially if you abandon the popular beaches in favor of trips to the interior of the island.

In fact, those who know the beaches of Corfu well, will be surprised to discover that the interior of the island looks like a completely different place.

In addition, you should know that the accommodation sites here are especially family-friendly, and this vacation destination is also definitely suitable for a family trip!

Cephalonia

An island nestled in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, the island of Kefalonia stands as one of Greece's most captivating secrets. Beyond its sunny shores and crystal beaches, Kefalonia weaves a tapestry of ancient history, verdant landscapes and vibrant culture.

Kefalonia is a peaceful and laid-back island known for its stunning beaches, the island is home to the Melissani Cave, an amazing underground lake, and the Drograti Cave, which has impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Kefalonia is also home to Myrtos Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

A visit to this island is not only a journey to a Mediterranean paradise, but also a dive into a rich tapestry of stories and traditions that echo the glory of ancient Greece.

Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or a touch of antiquity, Kefalonia promises an unforgettable experience for both families and couples.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is an island known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, the island is home to Navagio Beach, a popular tourist destination with a shipwreck on the shore, and the Blue Caves, a series of stunning blue caves on the coast of the island. Zakynthos is also home to the Kerry Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the island.

The island of Zakynthos is very well known among the diving population, many divers among them many Israelis come to the beaches of the island to experience diving in sea caves that call for adventurers.

It seems that when it comes to particularly dramatic sandy coastlines, no other Greek island compares to Zakynthos.

Shipwreck Bay, which can only be reached by boat, is the big winner, even if you take into account that it can sometimes be overcrowded, one way or another it is recommended to sample the northern and western beaches of the island, which are definitely less touristy.

Lesbos

Lesbos is a Greek island with a rich history and culture, known for its beautiful beaches, olive groves and picturesque villages.

The island is home to the ancient city of Mytilene, which has well-preserved ancient ruins and is also home to the Archaeological Museum of Mytilene, which houses ancient artifacts from the island.

Lesbos is also home to Petra Beach, an amazing beach with crystal clear sea.

In recent years, Lesbos has become the home of many Israelis, in most areas of the country Greece, you can buy spectacular houses at exorbitant prices, due to a lack of people on the island, the government undertakes to sell houses cheaply in exchange for people who will live and contribute to the land they lived on.

Hydra

Car-free and buzzing with artistic energy, Hydra is a picturesque retreat.

Its stone mansions, car-free policy and coastal paths make it a peaceful holiday.

It seems that the island of Hydra, which was "discovered" to the world thanks to the shooting of a film in 1957 starring Sophia Loren, remains "stuck" in a time capsule.

The entire island is a kind of architectural reserve and it is forbidden to build new buildings on it, even motorized transport is limited from Oz.

So, how do you get around the island you ask?

Riding donkeys and mules in the scenery of the island is already more than an attraction on the island, but a way of life...

The place is really beautiful and gives unforgettable experiences, recommended mainly for couples and adults.

Nexus

As the largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos boasts golden beaches, verdant valleys and ancient temples. The island's enchanting ancient cities and delectable cheeses make it an irresistible stop.

The island of Naxos has not yet been discovered to the world of tourists in the same amount as the other islands, so it is a bit cheaper.

When is it recommended to visit Greece?

Greece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes and mesmerizing islands, is a top destination for many travelers around the world. 

Deciding on the best time to visit this beautiful country largely depends on what kind of experience you are looking for, whether you aim to explore the ancient ruins without the crowds, relax on the beaches while the sun shines brightly, or engage in adventure and sightseeing, there is a season to suit your tour.

Spring - April - June

Spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Greece.

The weather is mild, the landscapes are lush and colorful with blooming wildflowers, and popular sites are less crowded. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, providing the ideal conditions for hiking.

Summer - July - August

Summer in Greece is characterized by hot temperatures, often reaching over 30 degrees Celsius, and a sharp increase in tourists. The islands become hot spots for visitors, the beaches are lively, the sea water is more pleasant and the nightlife is also busy and lively.

Autumn - September - November

As the summer crowds begin to thin out, autumn proves to be a wonderful time to explore Greece.

The weather remains relatively pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C, making it still suitable for spending time on the beach and swimming.

The sea remains warm from the summer heat, so island hopping can still be fun, plus, the grape harvest is starting, making it prime time for wine lovers to visit the country's famous vineyards.

Please note that you may be attacked by unexpected winds and stormy days due to the geographical location of Greece.

Winter - December - March

While winter is the least popular time for typical tourist activities in Greece, it offers its own unique attractions.

For those interested in winter sports, mountains such as Mount Paransus near Delphi and Mount Pelion near Volos offer skiing opportunities. Moreover, visiting historical sites during the winter provides a completely different, peaceful atmosphere that allows for deeper contemplation and connection to ancient times.

The best time to visit Greece really depends on personal preference…

If you prefer less crowds and milder temperatures, spring and autumn are ideal for you,

For beach lovers and those looking for lively nightlife and cultural festivals, summer is the peak season.

And for those of you looking for solitude or winter sports, winter can be the most magical time.

Whatever season you choose, Greece promises a rich and unforgettable experience.

In conclusion,

The Greek islands, with their distinct characters and offerings, guarantee memories that last a lifetime. Whether it's the romantic allure of Santorini, the diverse attractions of Crete, the fast-paced life of Mykonos, or the historical appeal of Rhodes, there's a piece of paradise waiting for every traveler. So, pack your bags and let the allure of these islands enchant you!

The Greek islands, with their multitude of shades and flavors, offer experiences that stimulate every facet of the soul. Whether you're chasing the excitement of Mykonian nights or the tranquility of Hydra's shores, Greece promises an island odyssey like no other. Dive into this heavenly archipelago, and let the Greek islands engrave memories of unparalleled allure on your heart.

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