We usually only talk about the most popular Greek islands and beaches. However, there are many islands that are just as wonderful as Santorini or Zakynthos. Now I’ll introduce 16 lesser-known Greek islands that are worth visiting!
Table of Contents
16 lesser-known Greek islands
Symi
It’s a member of the Dodecanese Greek island group, located 40 km from Rhodes. It lies in the immediate vicinity of the Turkish coast, with the shortest distance being 8 km.
Its 58.1 km² surface is mostly covered by barren mountains. Its coastline is winding, with several excellent natural harbors.
The must-see attraction on the island is the Panormitis Monastery of Saint Michael the Archangel. The monastery houses an icon of Saint Michael the Archangel, patron saint of islands and sailors, so it’s no coincidence that sailors from all over the world make pilgrimages here.
Its capital, Symi town, is Greece’s most impressive harbor. From here, 375 steps lead up to the old town, where you can wander through alleys between houses and cafes.
The island is most easily reached by boat from Rhodes. For those vacationing in Rhodes, it makes a perfect day trip.
Naxos
The largest member of the Cyclades island group, in the central part of the Aegean Sea between Santorini and Mykonos.
This is the greenest Cycladic island. Its highest point is Mount Zas (1008 meters), where according to legend Zeus was raised in a cave.
It was the center of the ancient Cycladic civilization. This is evident in the remains of historical buildings: the Temple of Demeter, the Colossus of Dionysus, or the iconic landmark of the capital, the Portara, which was erected in honor of the god Apollo.
Of course, there’s no shortage of excellent beaches on Naxos. Paralia Mikri Vigla or Paralia Agios Prokopios welcome visitors with golden fine sandy beaches.
Don’t miss tasting kitron, an alcoholic drink made from the lemon-like citron.
Folegandros
A small island in the Aegean Sea, the southwestern member of the Cyclades island group. Its population is only around 700. It lies northwest of Santorini, about 35 km away, making it worth visiting during a vacation there.
Its area is small, only 32 km², with a length of 7 km. There are three inhabited settlements on the island. The landscape is extremely varied, with many rock walls and a large cave.
The capital itself, Chora, is built on the edge of a ravine. When visiting, be sure to go up the serpentine road to the Panagia church, which offers a wonderful view.
Folegandros is not yet an island of mass tourism, which is why its true value lies in its pristine landscape, excellent beaches, and clear blue sea water.
Delos
This small island is located in the middle of the circle formed by the Cyclades island group, 2.5 km west of Mykonos. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990. It doesn’t have outstanding beaches; Delos is ideal for lovers of ancient monuments.
It was regarded as a sacred place even before Greek mythology placed the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis here. As a cultic site, Delos gained an importance that its natural resources would never have made possible.
There are several myths about the island’s origin. According to some, Poseidon created the island with a strike of his trident, then Apollo stretched out the island with threads. According to another legend, the island broke off from Sicily or fell here from the sky.
The significance of the island comes from the cult of Apollo, who was born on this island along with his twin sister Artemis.
Ancient structures are also prominent on Delos. Greece’s largest excavation site, a garden of ruins, is located here. Apollo’s temple is very popular among Greeks, as well as the Terrace of the Lions, where several stone lion statues stand.
Paxos
Also known as Paxí, it’s located 11 kilometers from Corfu and 20 kilometers from the city of Parga. It’s only 10 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide.
It’s also called the island of endless olive groves. Its western part, unlike the eastern part, is full of caves and sharp rocks.
Legend has it that it was once part of Corfu. Poseidon (god of the sea) was looking for a quiet place to live with his beloved Amphitrite. For this reason, he detached the southernmost part of the huge trident, thus creating Paxos.
Paxos’ capital, Gaios, is situated in a naturally spectacular location on the eastern side of the island: two verdant islands rise from the sea opposite the settlement.
Samos
Located in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea, right near the Turkish coast. It’s famous for its lush, green landscapes, as it’s one of the most fertile islands in the Mediterranean region, where olive trees, vineyards, and pine forests cover the hillsides.
Its significant settlement is Pythagoreio, named after the famous ancient mathematician Pythagoras, who was born here. Near the city is the impressive Eupalinos Tunnel, one of the engineering wonders of ancient times, and the Heraion, an ancient temple built in honor of the goddess Hera, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Samos is also famous for its special wines, especially the sweet Muscat wine, which has been recognized worldwide for centuries. The island’s beaches are also excellent, such as Kokkari, Lemonakia, or Tsamadou, where crystal clear water and picturesque surroundings await visitors.
Ikaria
The island near the Turkish coast derives its name from the mythology that Icarus, son of Daedalus, fell into the sea at its shores.
The island is famous for „long life”: statistics show that the proportion of people over 90 is much higher than in Europe.
The island is quite „long” compared to the other islands listed: the two opposite points are accessible by a 55 km car journey.
Although it has wonderful beaches, it’s recommended for those who like to immerse themselves in the „rural” Greek style and like to visit secluded, quiet places.
Andros
The northernmost and one of the greenest islands of the Cyclades island group, located in the Aegean Sea, about a two-hour ferry ride from Athens.
The island’s capital is Chora, which exudes a special atmosphere with its elegant neoclassical buildings, museums, and picturesque streets. Here you’ll find the famous Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases significant Greek and international works.
Andros’ natural beauty is impressive. Numerous streams, valleys, and waterfalls can be found here, such as the Pithara waterfalls, often called „the oasis of Andros”.
The beaches are also diverse. Golden Sand Beach with its fine sandy shore is ideal for relaxation. The Tis Grias to Pidima, or „The Old Woman’s Jump” beach is popular among visitors due to its special rock formation.
Skyros
The easternmost and largest island of the Sporades island group in the Aegean Sea.
The southern part of the island is mountainous, barren, rocky, and uninhabited, while the northern part’s surface is covered in many places by lush vegetation and pine forest.
It has two popular places: Linaria, where the ferries arrive, and Skyros town on the eastern side. The latter is almost mandatory to visit, with the city center being the castle standing on the mountain peak.
Skyros is famous for its small-sized horses bred here, as well as its furniture carving technique.
Patmos
A small Greek island in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, belonging to the Dodecanese island group.
Although relatively small in size, its historical and religious significance is enormous, as this is where the Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelation, which is why the island is often referred to as „the holy island.” The most important attraction is the Cave of St. John, located at the place where, according to tradition, the apostle received his visions. Above the cave stands the Monastery of Saint John, established in the 11th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The island’s main settlement is Chora, which radiates a true Greek atmosphere with its picturesque white houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and traditional tavernas. Another important port town is Skala, where most visitors arrive and which is considered the island’s tourism center.
Gavdos
Located 36 km south of Crete in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the southernmost island of Greece and all of Europe. A chair marks the southernmost point on the island.
We can safely say that this is where one finds peace. Its population is about 100 people, with only about 30 living in the island’s seat, Kastrin.
Rumor has it that this was the island where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus captive as he was returning home from the Trojan War.
It has three outstandingly beautiful beaches, all on the northern part: Sarakiniko, Potamos, and Agios Ioannis.
The island can be reached by boats departing from the southern part of Crete.
Amorgos
Located in the Aegean Sea, a member of the Cyclades island group, about 25 km southeast of Naxos.
It’s an elongated island, with steep rocks rising in its southeastern part, while its southwestern side is dotted with charming small beaches. Due to its remote location, it’s excellently suited for peaceful relaxation.
Its most beautiful attraction is Panagia Hozoviotissa, which is almost „glued” to a rock. Standing beside the large rock walls, one can enjoy a wonderful view of the sea.
Luc Besson filmed „The Big Blue” with Jean Reno on Amorgos.
Milos
A member of the Cyclades island group, between Santorini and the Peloponnese Peninsula.
It’s famous for the armless Aphrodite statue, which was discovered near the island, in the sea, in 1820. The statue is exhibited at the Louvre in Paris.
The island was formed as a result of volcanic activity. One of Greece’s 4 active volcanoes is located in the middle of Milos.
Perhaps you may be familiar with its most famous beach, Sarakiniko. It’s a popular photographic subject, as its rocky shore looks like we’re on the Moon.
Syros
Located in the Aegean Sea, a member of the Cyclades island group. It lies about 35 km west of Mykonos, close to the Greek mainland. Therefore, it’s among the easily accessible lesser-known islands.
The island had its heyday in the first half of the 19th century. The island’s capital, Ermoupolis, was a rich, bustling port in the era of the first steamships, almost taking over Delos’ ancient role.
Traces of ancient Greek history can also be discovered here. We find several excellent buildings in the downtown of the capital, Ermoupoli. The Archaeological Museum also showcases the island’s historical monuments.
And of course, Syros island is also good in terms of beaches. Especially in the southern part of the island, there are secluded, wonderful beaches.
Chios
Located in the North Aegean Islands region, not far from the Turkish coast. It’s sometimes written as Khíos. It’s Greece’s 5th largest island.
The famous plant of Chios is the Chios mastic tree, which only exudes resin here. Its resin (mastic) is used to flavor Greek mastiha, and in Turkey, it’s used to make the chewy ice cream called dondurma.
There’s also historical significance to the resin. In the 14th century, it was a colony of the state of Genoa, when castles were built to store the resin. These castles are now attractions of the island.
These castles were also villages. The most beautiful such settlement is Mesta, which stands almost entirely in its old splendor.
The Nea Moni monastery from the 11th century is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the monasteries of Daphni and Hosios Loukas.
Among its beaches, Mavra Volia stands out, offering a wonderful sight with its large black pebbles.
Hydra
Also known as Idra, it’s one of the Saronic Islands. It’s separated from the Peloponnese Peninsula by the narrow Gulf of Hydra.
In ancient times, it was called Hydrea, which means water and refers to the springs found on the island.
Interestingly, transportation is carried out by donkeys and water taxis, as motor vehicles, except for garbage trucks, are prohibited on the island. However, the inhabited area is relatively small, so most people simply walk.
The island’s main settlement is the port town of Hydra on the northern coast, which is crescent-shaped, with restaurants and shops in the middle. Steep streets lead upward in all directions from here to the hillside. At the two ends of the crescent stand forts with cannons, which once protected the harbor. Characteristic windmills can be seen from afar at the left end of the crescent.
For the most beautiful view, visit the Prophitis Ilias monastery standing on a mountain peak, which can be reached from the capital.
