Quick Guide to selected Greek Islands

Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete, Zakynthos, Paros — they almost sound like magic spells. In fact, they’re the names of some of Greece’s most enchanting islands, each brimming with sunlight, unforgettable food, and decalitres of surprisingly good, budget-friendly wine. And then, of course, the sea — in 50 shades of blue.

Santorini

Some say Santorini is a piece of Atlantis — and surely, it must have been the most beautiful part. Born from volcanic fire and shaped by the sea, the island rises like a dream: cliffs painted in warm hues, beaches with black and red sand, and those sunsets that draw travellers from all corners of the world.

Before or after witnessing this daily spectacle of light, wander through Fira, the lively capital, and let your culinary discoveries begin. You may struggle to pronounce the name of that tucked-away restaurant — but what you’ll remember are the flavours that speak for themselves, dishes as beautiful as they are delicious.

Let your journey continue through the island’s vineyards. A luxurious wine tour is a perfect way to explore Santorini’s lesser-known side. And as the day fades, head to Oia — the most photographed village in Greece. Whitewashed homes, blue domes, and alleyways that seem to lead to nowhere, yet always somewhere magical. You won’t need a guide here. Just follow the rhythm of the island. This stroll might become one of the most unforgettable ones of your life. 

Mykonos

Mykonos is one of Greece’s most talked-about destinations where fun, dancing, and a sun-soaked party spirit define the summer rhythm. The Greeks love to dance as passionately as Italians love to sing.

On Paraga Beach, Scorpios Club sets the tone. It’s the Mykonian answer to Club 55 in Saint-Tropez — equally glamorous, equally exclusive, but with a bit more energy and volume. World-class DJs take over the decks, spinning for an effortlessly stylish, sun-kissed crowd.

But Mykonos isn’t only for celebrities or headline DJs. Here, you can dance without spending a fortune — even the Sea Sea Satin Market becomes a dance floor by the sea. And truthfully, in Mykonos, any bar can turn into the night of your life.

Still, Mykonos in the off-season is a different story altogether. Come between October and May, and you’ll discover a more peaceful side of the island. Think quiet lanes, iconic windmills with thatched roofs, whitewashed houses set against the deep blue sea, and sunsets in golden pink — the kind that flatter everyone, even after a sleepless night.

Corfu

Cypress forests, olive groves, and orange gardens — Corfu feels like a vast botanical retreat bathed in genial sunshine. Often described as a Garden of Eden, the island attracts an aristocratic crowd, including members of the global financial elite. And we can hardly blame them. In Kerkyra, the island’s capital, it feels as if the finest details of Europe have been gathered in one place: Venetian alleyways, Italian-style courtyards with lace balconies, and elegant French promenades along Liston Boulevard — inspired by Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

Dining here is no less refined. Guests at The Venetian Well often wonder why this temple of taste has yet to earn its first Michelin star — and we hope the inspectors are already en route. Nearby in Kato Korakiana, Etrusco presents modern Ionian cuisine with masterful flair. And over in Agni Bay, gourmets will delight in Toula’s and Nikolas — two beloved tavernas by the sea. If seafood is your calling, begin with the former.

After the pleasures of the table, Corfu offers much for the soul as well. Stroll around the serene Korission Lake. Explore the stately Achillion Palace, once the refuge of Empress Sissi of Austria. And before you leave, row gently through the Canal d’Amour with your beloved. Legend says eternal passion awaits those who pass through it together.

Crete

Greece’s largest island could easily pass for a country of its own — a place where majestic mountains meet golden beaches, where lakes shimmer beside vineyards, and where joyful towns hum with life. From the peaceful, family-friendly charm of Chania to the vibrant nightlife of Hersonissos, from the sleepless rhythm of Heraklion to the timeless beauty of Rethymno and lively Gouves, Crete offers more than we can name.

When planning your stay, the only question is: what kind of escape are you after? Beachside serenity, romantic hideaways, culinary adventures, family time, active holidays, or a deep dive into ancient history?

And speaking of history — Knossos, the legendary palace built by the mysterious Minoans over 4,000 years ago, has no equal in all of Hellas. Zeus himself, they say, was born in the White Mountains here, and a tour to his mythical birthplace is possible at any time — just like a lunch that gracefully stretches into dinner.

The island’s tavernas and restaurants are a feast in every sense. You’ll find both small family-run places with just a few tables and elegant fine dining gems like La Bouillabaisse at the Minos Beach Art Hotel, or The Blue Door at the Blue Palace in Elounda. No matter your choice, you’ll be tasting one of the world’s most celebrated cuisines — the diet of longevity and joy.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is the kind of place travelers return to—again and again. For barefoot evenings that drift into midnight dinners, long scenic walks, and days under the Ionian sun. If a beach holiday is on your list, make this island a must.

It’s a paradise for those who seek sand, sunshine, and just the right dose of adventure. Think scuba diving with majestic Caretta caretta turtles, cycling through wild landscapes, gliding on kayaks, or even cliff-jumping into the clearest waters in Greece. Navagio Beach, with its legendary shipwreck and cinematic blue hues, is nothing short of iconic. Close contenders in beauty are Nikolaos and Alykanas beaches, where water sports abound.

But there’s more beyond the coast. Head inland to discover mountain villages, secret bays, and a wilder side of the island. Here, untouched nature meets centuries-old churches, weathered and unvarnished by time. It’s no wonder Homer called it “drowning in green,” or that Apollo and Artemis chose Zakynthos as their resting place after work on Olympus. Frankly, we can’t argue with the gods.

Paros

This island is often ignored by travelers. And this is a great mistake! Paros is an extremely romantic and calm place, which is only of benefit for those who are in love. The unhurried nature of island life, white houses, splendid gardens, and cozy cafes on the beaches seem to be specially created for declarations of love. 

Blue-domed churches, arches with vines running over them and cobbled streets call for walks. In the capital of the island, city of Parikia, one must definitely try local cuisine and have a candlelight dinner in Taverna Mira located at the very edge of the water. And to “take a bath” together on Kolymbithres Beach. There is reminiscence of Gaudi’s works in the rocks of bizarre shapes that create natural baths, and the water in this unusual place is crystal-clear. 

There is another side of Paros too. An active one. If you have a weakness for windsurfing, go to Zerdakia Beach, and if you prefer kite surfing, hurry to Pounda. And how exciting it is to find the temple of Apollo, where the fortune telling Pythia lived.