The most beautiful island of Greece rating. The best islands of Greece for a divine holiday. What to do in Mykonos

Greece is a continental zone in the south of the Balkan Peninsula in Europe and an island nation. More than two thousand islands are washed by: the Mediterranean, Cretan, Ionian, Aegean, Libyan seas. The largest islands are the best resorts in Greece: Chania, Rethymno, Kardamena, Lindos, Kafelos, Lassithi, Irraklion, Kifisia.
The most popular resorts in Greece on the islands - Rhodes, Corfu, Kos, Crete, Peloponnese, Halkidiki, Chios, Samos, Mykonos.

Map of Greece with resorts

Rhodes Island - Resorts and Attractions

The island of Rhodes is a place shrouded in myths. This is an island that attracts with its nature, history, architecture; take, for example, the Valley of the Butterflies. This island of the famous Colossus of Rhodes - included in the list of the seven wonders of the world - will offer everything that will satisfy the most demanding tourists. The island of Rhodes harmoniously combines the achievements of the current century and innovation with the architectural heritage of antiquity - which in general creates favorable conditions for recreation. Rhodes is washed by two seas: the Mediterranean (in the east) has sandy beaches and calm seas, and the Aegean (in the west) with pebble beaches and waves. Therefore, the eastern coast of the island (the areas of Kolymbia, Kalithea, Lindos, Faliraki) is suitable for tourists who prefer traditional beach holidays, and the western coast (Ialyssos, Ixia) is suitable for windsurfing. Tours to the island of Rhodes in 2019 with direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Corfu Island (Kerkyra) - description of resorts

Corfu Island (Kerkyra) is one of the best resorts in Greece. The nature of the island is unique: plains, mountains, rocky shores, secluded bays, numerous sandy golden beaches, citrus orchards and olive groves (there are more than 40 species of wild orchids), picturesque lakes and rivers. The tourist season for a beach holiday lasts from May to September. Corfu is famous for the Canal of Love (Di Amour) in the town of Sidari, according to legend, swim in it and find your love. The city of Kerkyra is the capital of the island of Corfu. Tourists will be interested in visiting Spianade Square, recognized as the most beautiful in all of Greece, the Old and New Fortress, as well as the Cathedral of St. Christopher, the Byzantine Museum. Take time to visit the summer palace of the Austrian Empress Elisabeth of Habsburg, built at the end of the 19th century. For tourists who prefer active recreation, Fr. Corfu offers a wide range of entertainment - tennis clubs, sailing yachts, diving, surfing, equestrian sports, and golf. Tours to the island of Corfu (Kerkyra) in 2019 are available from Moscow and St. Petersburg from late April to mid-October.

Kos island in Greece - attractions

It has a favorable climate and is recognized as the most environmentally friendly in Greece. This is a paradise on earth with beautiful flowering gardens, olive groves, many birds. Kos is a kind of universal resort. The hospitality of the island of Kos and its high level of tourist services will allow everyone to have a comfortable, interesting and convenient rest, whether they are young people, or lovers of a relaxing family holiday, wealthy people who value service and comfort, or people with a small income, or active people who love sports and entertainment, or lovers to spend time with a book on the beach. Amusements, parks, playgrounds are provided for children. North of the city of Kos is Lambi resort with sandy beach. To the east of Kos there are resort Psalidi with a pebble beach. And 10 kilometers south of Kos there is beach with black volcanic sand and here it is customary to bathe in a thermal spring. The most famous resorts of the island: Kardamena, Kefalos, Kamari, Marmari, Mastichari, Tigaki.Sights and resorts of the island of Kos.

- the most picturesque and largest Greek island, the shape of the island resembles a flying dragon, on which are located the best resorts in Greece: Elounda, Rethymnon, Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos and romantic Chania. Crete has all the conditions for tourists of different categories and ages: there are inexpensive hotels and noisy discos for students; for reputable tourists - fashionable resorts; privacy and tranquility - for newlyweds, as well as everything you need to relax with children. Tourists on about. Crete the mild climate, picturesque nature, clear sea, beautiful beaches, many historical monuments, architectural excavations of different eras and a developed hotel chain attract. Crete is the most accessible Greek island both from Moscow and from the regions of Russia. Find your ideal holiday tour in Crete

Zakynthos Island - Blue Caves, Navagio Bay


The island of Zakynthos (the capital of Zakynthos) stands out from the rest of the Greek islands due to its natural beauty and unique underwater world. Rocks and mountains in the west, densely forested hills and plains, olive groves, 123 km of endless sandy white beaches, clear blue sea, secluded bays and bays, underwater caves and sunken ships - an excellent place for recreation and water activities. Long sandy beaches, resort towns, villages and tourist complexes occupy mainly the northeastern and southeastern parts of the island. It is worth noting that the island does not experience a shortage of hotels. There is a wide range of developed tourist infrastructure of hotels of various categories: from 2 * and above, to specialized spa hotels. The most popular resorts of the island of Zakynthos: Laganas, Kalamaki, Vasilikos, Agrassi, Tsilivi. Tours with direct flights to the island. Zakynthos in 2019 is from late May to early October from Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tours from Moscow to the island of Zakynthos are built on direct flights twice a week (Wednesday, Saturday), from St. Petersburg 1 time per week on Thursdays.

Santorini island - life on the Volcano, the legendary Atlantis


Santorini island- the highlight of the tourist world of Greece. The historical heritage of past civilizations, sandy beaches of volcanic black, red and white sand, azure aegean sea and unique architecture, expressed in small houses painted in blue, blue and white colors, combined with fresh flowers in pots, have long been the hallmark of a paradise holiday in Greece on the Island of Santorini. Sea trips on yachts, calm and moderate atmosphere of relaxation, dynamic nightlife, shopping, spa - hotels and sightseeing - all this is harmoniously combined in Santorini. Therefore, it is cozy, convenient and affordable for various categories of tourists! There are tours to Santorini from Moscow only with transfers. You can also visit Santorini by ferry, for example, from the island of Crete.

Chios - juicy fruits, mastic, honey and a relaxing holiday!


Chios Island is still less known on the Russian market, which distinguishes it from other islands of Greece, where there are an excessive number of Russians. It is located next to Turkey: only 5 km separates it from the Turkish resort of Cesme. Chios Island is designed for a relaxing holiday and holidays with children. Chios is a town and village in the medieval style, in this it is similar to the island of Rhodes. O. Chios is suitable for those tourists who are ready to learn Greek traditions, culture and enjoy beautiful views and the sea. The "highlight" of the island of Chios is that this is the only place on earth where mastic trees give a special resin (mastic). Masticha has healing properties and has been used to make various products, including chocolate.

Mykonos is an island where celebrities vacation!


Mykonos is the most prestigious holiday on the islands of Greece. Nightlife with discos and their colorful lights does not stop on the island of Mykonos during the peak season from July to September. The architectural appearance of Mykonos is a combination of low-rise blue-and-white houses, hilly countryside and the rugged Aegean coastline. The beaches of the island are mostly sandy and are of mixed type (sand and pebbles). They are suitable for both youth and outdoor activities. In general, visiting the island of Mykonos, looking at life, cuisine and dynamic parties, enjoying the beach and first-class service is worth at least once in a lifetime. You have to see where the elite youth, politicians and famous show business stars rest. And if this is not even a full-fledged vacation, but a sightseeing tour for a couple of days from neighboring islands on a ferry, you should not deprive yourself of such an opportunity!

Resorts and attractions of the Peloponnese

Peloponnese Peninsula is the southern region of the mainland Greece. Peninsula Peloponnese attracts tourists from all over the world with its historical past and many attractions. On Peloponnese there are such significant cities of ancient civilization as: Argos, Epidaurus, Sparta, Patra, Mycenae. Therefore, the rest spent here will be fascinating, meaningful and informative thanks to rich excursion programs. The beaches on the peninsula are purely sandy or sandy with small inclusions of small pebbles. The absence of large resorts (usually scattered hotels or apartments) does not deter tourists who seek to enjoy the beauty of architectural monuments and amazing ancient buildings.

Holidays in Halkidiki in Greece

Peninsula Chalkidiki outwardly resembles a trident, each end of which is a peninsula Kassandra, Sithonia and Agios Oros(Holy Mount Athos). This southern peninsula in the mainland of Greece is a unique nature reserve with green hills dotted with vineyards, with unique forests, flowers, azure sea, large sandy beaches. This peninsula is ideal for families with children, couples or travelers who want to spend their holidays calmly and measuredly. At your choice - a lot of comfortable and well-maintained beaches, as well as wild and secluded. There are youth resorts in Halkidiki: Kallithea (Kassandra); Neos Marmaris (Sitonia). Resting in Halkidiki, you can go to the main attraction of mainland Greece - the mountain Olympus, where, according to myths, all the ancient Greek gods lived. Leave an unforgettable experience tour of Thessaloniki and a trip to the mountains of Meteora with a visit to the monasteries of the same name. Halkidiki is located close to Thessaloniki International Airport. What makes holidays in the resorts of Halkidiki affordable for residents of Russian regions. Tours to the resorts of Halkidiki in 2019 with direct flights to Thessaloniki are available from 11 Russian cities: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Krasnodar, Kazan, Voronezh, Volgograd, Samara, Mineralnye Vody, Rostov-on-Don, Nizhny Novgorod. Find the best Halkidiki tour among all tour operators.

The capital of Greece - Athens - attractions

Athens is the capital of Greece. Currently resort of Athens it is a modern city with a population of 3.6 mil. residents with excellent developed tourist infrastructure. The city of Athens is surrounded by mountains: Egaleo, Parnita, Pendeli, Imitho, from the southwest - the Saronic Gulf. Athens combine all types of recreation: it is a wonderful place with historical, architectural monuments, shopping centers, hotels for different incomes, beautiful beaches, the sea, restaurants, cafes. Resorts a few kilometers from Athens: Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Kifisia, Faliro, Vura, Varkiza, Kavouri, Mati, Marathonas, Vravrona, Lagonisi, Nea Marka, Loutraki.

Which island to choose in Greece? How to start selection

If you are thinking about which island to choose in Greece for your holidays, start with what time of the year you are going to visit Greece. We recommend reading this article:

The fact is that the popular resorts in Greece are located in different parts of the country - in the north and in the south, and, therefore, the sea warms up there at different times.

If you are driving in April, then you should not expect a comfortable bath: on the southernmost and largest island of Greece - Crete- The water temperature this month is on average a little more than +17 degrees.

In May The temperature of the bathing water is about the same everywhere, but the warmest, as statistics show, is in Rhodes. Probably affected by the proximity of the mainland. The coolest is on the islands of northern Greece: these are Kefalonia, Corfu and Lesvos.

If you are driving in summer, then any island is suitable for temperature: everywhere it is warm and sunny. More precisely, not warm, but hot and very hot. And the hottest thing we have again in Rhodes 🙂

In September the average temperature on the islands of Greece is +24 ... +25, and, oddly enough, in the north-west of the country - the islands Corfu And Zakynthos- on average warmer than in the south. The islands of the Aegean Sea - Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos and others - cool down a little faster.

Well in October, as you may have guessed, the best Greek weather for swimming will again be offered by Rhodes and Crete. Let's even say more: there is also In November perfect swimming season!

All other months of the year are not considered swimming due to strong winds and low temperatures, so the question of which island to choose in Greece for a beach holiday is not worth it - winter, sir.

Which island in Greece is better to relax on - popular or authentic? We choose both options.

Which island to choose in Greece for beach and outdoor activities at an affordable price?

The best choice is the islands of Crete and Rhodes. They are large and self-sufficient: there are so many attractions and opportunities for leisure activities that there is enough for two vacations. Those who have rights can rent a car inexpensively and enjoy all the beauties of these islands.

Rhodes has other advantages as well. Firstly, all inclusive hotels. Secondly, the proximity to some other islands that you can visit on an excursion or on your own within one day: Symi And tilos. Thirdly, the opportunity to visit the Turkish peninsula Datca and Marmaris, which is compared with the small coastal towns of France. Fourth, Rhodes is one of the cheapest islands in Greece.

As you can see, Rhodes is trying very hard so that when discussing the topic “which island to choose in Greece”, you lean in his favor.

For many, the question “Which island in Greece is better to relax?” sounds like "Where is cheaper?" The answer is in this article! 🙂

Which island to go to in Greece to visit two countries?

In addition to the just mentioned Rhodes, you can sail to Turkey from the islands of Lesvos and Kos. And from the island of Corfu (Kerkyra) it is most convenient and fastest to visit Italy by ferry and Albania (ferry + bus). Here is our guide to help you:

Which island will appeal to those who do not want to relax cheaply?

You can spend a lot of money thoughtlessly or wisely on any island of Greece, but it is on Santorini And Mykonos it will turn out gracefully and imperceptibly. Here are the most expensive hotels and apartments, the most expensive restaurants, the most expensive shops and, of course, souvenirs of the same price category. And we will tell about other sights of Santorini and Mykonos this spring 🙂

Santorini, Santorini... For 10 euros - only a plate of vegetables and cheese! It is clear why most Russian tourists come here only for one day on excursions.

Which island in Greece is suitable for a secluded holiday and an authentic atmosphere?

Which island to choose in Greece so that all your friends ask later “Where is it?” Take a closer look at the islands of the Aegean Sea, among which Milos, Syros, Naxos, Folegandros, Paros, Ikaria, Kos, as well as to the islands Kefalonia and adjacent to it Ithaca in the Ionian Sea. What are they ready to please the tourist? Firstly, the main Greek set, which includes cute restaurants, colorful architecture, ancient villages with churches and, of course, perfect beaches. And secondly, there are few tourists on these islands, and a special, authentic atmosphere reigns there - real Greece awaits you there.

Of the minuses these islands - that, except for Milos, you will not find any stunning and outstanding sights there (but this is also logical if there are few tourists there, isn't it? 🙂)

Most tourists see Syros Island only from ferries. You really are. Maybe.

Where to go in Greece if you don't know English?

In general, we believe that English is not needed for 95% of situations on vacation. In the remaining five percent, sign language, Google translator or someone nearby will help out. But if it is still important for you that there is a “support group” around, that is, many compatriots who would suggest what, where and why, then you Thessaloniki(Halkidiki peninsula) or to the islands Corfu And Rhodes- popular resorts in Greece among Russian tourists who travel on a package tour.

Thessaloniki and Corfu have another advantage over other resorts: it is from there that it is easiest to visit the legendary Greek monastery of Meteora.

The city beach of the island of Rhodes wins in the nomination "Go to your Turkey!"

Which island to choose in Greece to see the country's most famous beach?

magnificent bay of Navagio(aka Shipwreck Beach) has been seen by everyone who has read about Greece at least once (but not about the crisis and not about debts). It is one of the three most recognizable places in the country along with the Athenian Acropolis and Santorini architecture. Emerald sea, snow-white sand, sheer cliffs on both sides and the skeleton of a large rusty ship, on the decks of which you can climb for a selfie. This Zakynthos island, gentlemen.

And if your choice falls on Zakynthos, make sure that you want to visit this island not just for Navajo. There are many picturesque grottoes and bays on Zakynthos, and you can read about what actually happens on the beaches from postcards in our article about the famous bays of Thailand and Turkey.

There are about 1400 islands in Greece, 227 are inhabited, they are washed by the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean seas. Tourists in such a variety is not easy to decide. To make things easier, we have compiled a list of the best islands in Greece, each of which has its own zest.

The most expensive island in Greece for holidays. It is located in the center of the Aegean Sea basin. Lovers of luxury and celebrity prefer to relax here. Bars and clubs compete with each other in holding parties with famous DJs. Mykonos has sandy and pebbly beaches for all tastes. There are several large and noisy, popular with young people and nudists - Paranga, Paradise, Super Paradise. Family people are better off relaxing on Ornos. But most of the stars can be found on Psara.

Mykonos, as befits one of the most luxurious resorts in Greece, is decorated with lush green vegetation. Although people come here for a vibrant nightlife, during the day there is also something to see. For example, on the old windmills, standing on the hills in the districts of Chora and Kastro. In the latter one can visit the Paraportiani National Monument. These are little churches of the Mother of God that have grown together over time. It will also be interesting in the authentic mansion of the noble lady Lena Skrivanu, in which all the furniture and personal belongings of the hostess, who lived in the 19th century.

Kos

Kos continues the list - the opposite of expensive Mykonos. Holidays here are cheaper than on the rest of the islands of Greece. Housing prices, food and souvenirs are very affordable. Kos is located in the Aegean Sea, just 4 km from the coast of the Turkish resort of Bodrum. The local beaches are striking in their diversity. There are large ones, like Tigaki, 10 km long, small ones in coves, with small pebbles (starting from the east, through the north to Agios Fokas), sandy ones. At the same time, the sand can be of three colors: white, gold and volcanic black.

Dispelling boredom is not a problem here. All water activities are available, many nightclubs, restaurants, inexpensive bistros with cheap but tasty set meals. In some places near the coast you can find a natural jacuzzi, near Psalidi there are thermal sulfur springs. Maybe that's why there are so many. There are many historical sights on the island. The first mention of this land is found in the legends of ancient Greece. This is the birthplace of Hippocrates, to whom a whole museum has been dedicated. Nearby are the ruins of a temple to the god Asclepius the healer. From the 14th century, the castle of the Knights of St. John was preserved, and from the 18th century - two mosques: Defterdar and Hadji Hasan.

Zakynthos

This island is on our list of the best vacation destinations as the most beautiful.. Two mountain ranges, separated by a beautiful valley, the shores are washed by the Ionian Sea. Pirates, Normans, Venetians, French and British constantly fought for the right to dominate this land. And only in 1864 the island became Greek. There was something to fight for: artesian springs, grapes, citrus fruits, olives - everything was in abundance. Nothing has changed these days. Only the shores with beautiful soft sand turned into well-maintained beaches.

There are few historical sights in the resort. There are several museums, the ancient temple of St. Dionysius, Byzantine and medieval churches, the Venetian tower in Volima and a fortress in the capital of the island. But Zakynthos itself is a natural monument of Greece. Tourists should visit the stone park of flora and fauna Askos. Here, 45 species of animals live in special pens and enclosures, and about 140,000 plants grow in the wooded area. In summer, big-headed sea turtles lay their eggs on the shores of Lagana Bay. You can look at the ship of smugglers thrown ashore in Navagio Bay, and look for treasures in the beautiful Blue Caves.

Rhodes

If you are planning a family vacation with children, then you should go to Rhodes. This island from our list has its own international airport, which is very convenient and reduces the travel time to the resort. In Faliraki there is a large water park, in which everything is provided for a comfortable stay and fun with children. You should settle on the eastern side of the resort, washed by the Mediterranean Sea. There is soft sand, warm shallow water and no waves. The beaches of the Lindos and Kolymbia areas are the best.

To visit the homeland of one of the wonders of the world, the Colossus of Rhodes, is already a reason to brag to your peers. Must visit Butterfly Valley- in the form of a stretching narrow strip of a park with bizarre stone ledges, small waterfalls and thousands of multi-colored handsome moths. In Prasonisis you can show children kiss of the mediterranean and aegean seas. Not far from Faliraki there is a large amusement park Fantasia. There is a mini-aquarium in the capital, a mini-zoo in the Rodini park with a small waterfall.

Crete

The best island in Greece for a beach holiday No wonder it is included in the list of the most popular tourist centers in the Mediterranean. Here is a paradise for those who crave relaxation on a sunny beach by the sea. The entire northern coast is a continuous beach. The exact number of bathing places in all of Crete is unknown, there are thousands of them. There are fully equipped ones, there are also wild ones in small coves. The most famous beach in Greece is located on Crete, it is called Elafonisi. A fabulous landscape opens up here: azure waves and sand of all shades, from pink to purple.

Turquoise water, white sand and a pirate past at Balos Beach. Vai is famous for its date grove. Rumor has it that an advertisement about heavenly pleasure was filmed on it.

Crete has a complete list of beach activities, water parks. Diving schools are very well developed. Beginners can train in shallow water, watch colorful fish, turtles, octopuses and cuttlefish. Experienced divers explore sunken ships at depth, explore canyons, descend to an underwater volcano near the Santorini archipelago. You can dilute your beach holiday with an excursion program: churches, monasteries, castles. The most famous attraction is the Palace of Knossos, which, according to legend, was the labyrinth of the Minotaur.

Corfu

If you are interested in which island of Greece most attractions then it will be Corfu. The most unexpected of them can be called a memorial composition-monument to Admiral Ushakov. The islanders owe him the liberation from the French occupation, the return of the Greek state and Orthodoxy to these lands. Lovers are attracted by a picturesque romantic place on the tiny Mouse Island - Vlaherna Monastery.

Surrounded by luxurious gardens, on the slope, stands Achillion Palace. One of the most interesting European palaces in the Pompeian style. In Kerkyra, the Old Fortress, built by the Venetians, has been preserved. Survived to this day from the XIII century and the fortress of Angelokastro. You can admire the views of the island from the observation deck of the Life-Giving Spring monastery. All the charm of antiquity is felt when walking through the ruins of the temple of Artemis. Corfu has one of the richest Orthodox churches - the Cathedral of St. Spyridon.

The Greek islands are attractive not only because of the amazingly beautiful landscapes, the unusually blue warm sea, but also because of their affordability. Today in Greece you can relax well and inexpensively, the main thing is to be able to prioritize and plan your vacation in advance.

Those who have been lucky enough to have already visited Greece will argue that there most likely cannot be ugly islands there, because the sea itself is an unusually bright blue color, and even if it surrounds a nondescript stone, it will still look beautiful.

This post is for those who are now concerned about such questions as: Where to go to relax in the summer, Where to relax cheaply? What are the best islands in Greece? Where to relax in Greece?

10th place. Symi Island

Near the famous island of Rhodes, there is a small island of Symi, which at first glance looks more like an Italian village. All the difference is in the colors. For some reason, the locals decided that it was not interesting to paint houses according to tradition, white. Now, they are all multi-colored but stick to beautiful pastel colors. The towns on this island are like pictures - it is impossible to take your eyes off, and each photo is just a masterpiece. In addition to architecture, the island is not devoid of beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine and friendly hosts.

9th place. Paxos Island

The smallest of the seven main islands of the Ionian Sea. Paxos is small but very, very beautiful - lovely beaches with clear, warm water, a riot of greenery and tranquility are the main advantages of this paradise island. Located near Corfu, a little south. The best way to get there is by ferry from Corfu.

8th place. Skiathos island

Skiathos is part of the Northern Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea. There are beautiful bays and beaches, a lot of greenery and picturesque villages. Developed infrastructure, hospitable people and vibrant nightlife make this island one of the most popular among the eastern islands of Greece.

7th place. Zakynthos Island

Small but very cute and cool island. It is here that the famous Navagio beach is located, which is present on every second postcard from Greece (on the first - SantoriniJ). The symbol of Zakynthos is the majestic turtles Karet Karet, who live only here and the locals carefully take care of them and protect them in every possible way.

6th place. Mykonos Island

Mykonos has everything - clean beautiful beaches, snow-white Greek houses and incendiary parties. Mykonos is considered the best island for young and energetic people who, in addition to a beach holiday, love to have fun and dance.

5th place. Kefalonia

The largest island of the Ionian Sea, beautiful and majestic Kefalonia delights tourists primarily with solitude. Despite the fact that, according to statistics, this island is quite popular, because of the many beaches and beautiful places, it seems that a hundred people are very few. Who loves a relaxing and quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kefalonia is the perfect place for you.

4th place. Crete

The largest of the islands of Greece and perhaps the most popular among tourists. Crete differs from the rest of Greece in its own customs and temperament, dishes and architecture. The beaches in Crete are long, with fine sand, the water is warmer than on the northern islands and the cuisine deserves special attention.

3rd place. Corfu

The greenest of the Ionian islands and the resting place of many European royalty. Due to the mild climate and rich flora and fauna, the Greeks consider Corfu one of the best places to improve their health. From other Ionian islands, Corfu has a rich history, a large and fairly cosmopolitan capital, many museums and attractions. In addition to all this, Corfu is famous for its small but very picturesque beaches with clean, clear water and many colorful fish.

2nd place. Santorini

A visiting card of Greece, a favorite place for a honeymoon among newlyweds, you can not tell anything about this island, everyone has heard about its extraordinary and beauty. The best way to get to Santorini is by ferry from Crete. Despite the fact that most often only a couple of days are spent on Santorini as an excursion, there are also beaches, but since the island itself is of volcanic origin, the sand on them is black and red.

1 place. Lefkada island

The island is not yet familiar to everyone. Some do not refer to this paradise as an island, as it is located very close to mainland Greece and is connected by a bridge. However, this is the only Greek island that can be reached without the help of a plane or ferry.

Lefkada is one of the Ionian Islands, fourth in size after Kefalonia, Corfu and Zakynthos. It is located north of Kefalonia and south of Corfu. As green and picturesque as Kofrou, but the beaches are even better than in Kefalonia.

The best way to get there is to fly to Athens or Thessaloniki, rent a car and get there on your own in 4-5 hours, especially without a car it is impossible to feel and see all the beauty of this island.

Lefkada in our ranking got the first place, even after the well-known Santorini, because the beaches on this island are absolutely fabulous. And also, due to the fact that few yet know about this amazing island. There, the sea is of an unusual turquoise color, the sand is white and soft, the villages, as elsewhere in Greece, are small and picturesque, and the people are friendly and pleasant.

  • Where to go on honeymoon. Top 10 most…

Greece - country with amazing history and culture. Many tourists choose the Greek islands for holidays because they want to plunge into the atmosphere of the myths and legends of these places. Perhaps this is the best option for combining tourist and sightseeing holidays.

Of course, you can go to Greece not only for the sake of the unique culture of this country, but also to relax in high-quality European resorts. The level of service here is much higher than in Turkish or Egyptian hotels, which are so loved by domestic travelers.

So, which islands of Greece are considered the best for beach and sightseeing holidays? Where can you go with a big company or with your family?

Greek islands - the best places to relax

Few tourists know that Greece has 1400 islands! However, only 228 islands. Of course, tourists are attracted only by those settlements where the recreation infrastructure is well developed.

Here are descriptions of some the most popular holiday islands in Greece.

Corfu island

This island is considered almost sa our popular Greek resort. Corfu has several important advantages at once, among which it is worth noting the amazing beauty of the area. Corfu is surrounded by olive trees, a variety of vegetation that you will not find in Russia. It is here that you should go for traditional Greek views, which combine greenery and contrasting white houses.

Also on the island of Corfu there are several attractions that are definitely worth a visit. For example, tourists can ride on canal of lovers in the city of Cedar and also pay attention Byzantine churches in the city of Corfu.

The only drawback of the island of Corfu is its amazing popularity among tourists. If the traveler wants a secluded holiday, then Corfu will disappoint him. Especially on the east coast there are a lot of tourists during the season. However, the beauty of the area does not spoil even the number of annoying tourists.

Rhodes island

This is an amazing place shrouded in legends and mysteries. This is where the famous Spike of Rhodes, which is included in seven wonders of the world. There are also many attractions on the island of Rhodes in Greece, d the most ancient temples, the famous Butterfly Park is located here, in which a romantic atmosphere reigns at any time of the year.

The island is also notable for the fact that there are resorts for a variety of travelers. For example, resort Ixia ideal for noisy companies, and Kallithea- on the contrary, a secluded and quiet place for couples.

You can get to Rhodes by plane, because the island has an airport. There are also regular flights from Athens, the capital of Greece, to one of the country's most touristic islands. .

Santorini island

Another place where preserved unique Greek architecture. It is here that the traditional sights of Santorini - white houses with blue roofs are erected in a cult, and the overall landscape looks just magical. The island is very green, there are many plants and flowers, and small houses seem to be buried in this splendor.

The only one flaw holidays here are decent travel prices. Santorini is more of an island for wealthy tourists than for budget travelers. Of the entertainment here, yacht trips around the island are especially popular. By the way, sailing on a yacht is an ideal opportunity to take a fresh look at the island.

Of course, this is just a short list of the most popular tourist islands in Greece. Going on a trip to this amazing country, a tourist must understand the purpose of their vacation. If he wants to enjoy quality service, then Santorini or Corfu are ideal for this. However, there are islands of amazing beauty in Greece that deserve attention, if only for the sake of amazing landscapes.

The most beautiful Greek islands

Of course, lovers of picturesque landscapes should know which Greek islands are considered the most beautiful in the country?

Crete

Crete is popular not only for its amazing scenery, but also for its mild climate. Tourists from all over the world regularly come here to enjoy the amazing Greek atmosphere. By the way, you can get to the island of Crete in the summer by a direct flight from Moscow. The island has the second largest airport in Greece, and flights run with enviable regularity.

In addition to the amazing landscapes, there are many interesting sights of the island of Crete. For example, tourists can visit the Palace of Knossos, as well as the excavations of the Minoan cities. For people who are fond of history, such a trip is a real gift.

For wealthy tourists will like a vacation in the eastern part of the island called Lasithi. For youth and couples with an average budget ideal would be the northern region of Crete called Rethymnon.

Zakynthos Island (Zakynthos)

This is the ideal place for those tourists who want to see unusual Greek landscapes. The main attractions of the island are picturesque cliffs covered with greenery and trees, as well as secluded bays with clear water and snow-white beaches. By the way, the beaches here stretch for 123 kilometers.

The great advantage of the island is that there are not so many tourists here, as, for example, on the island of Crete or Corfu. However, the level of tourist service is very high. By the way, there are many hotels in Zakynthos, both luxury and two-star. More about the island of Zakynthos.

Peninsula Halkidiki

The very shape of the island resembles trident. This unique, picturesque place with a variety of vineyards, architectural monuments and olive trees. The famous Mount Olympus, which appears in almost all Greek myths. There is Byzantine Museum, which is definitely worth a visit for fans of Greek art and history buffs.

Having visited the Greek islands and enjoying the amazing local landscapes, the tourist will be able to fall in love with these places forever. Most importantly, choose the perfect island for your holiday.

Excursions to the islands of Greece

To better understand the mood of Greece and the peculiarities of its culture, you need to visit several islands at once. In this case, the tourist will be able to diversify the rest and get a lot of impressions.

Many excursions to the islands of Greece are popular. For example, from the port of Neo Moudania on the peninsula Chalkidiki you can go on a trip to the two most picturesque Greek islands - Skopelos and Skiathos. The tour will last all day, and you need to pay for it. 90-100 euros.

This is a great opportunity to see a completely different, non-tourist Greece, which lives very secluded and calm. Also, travelers will have the opportunity to visit the oldest local temples, imbued with the local culture.

The distance between the islands themselves is small, so the tourist can safely go on his own. from Corfu to Chalkidiki or in any other direction.

Many travelers come to Greece without even an idea of ​​an approximate route. They just know that any island in this country is picturesque and beautiful. That is why you just need to get to the seaport, which is in almost every city and go on an adventure.

From Athens you can also get to the island Crete, Corfu, Santorini and many others. Such a journey can take several hours, or it can last all day. The most important thing is to have time to feel the atmosphere of the island.

Nuances and features of visiting Greece

Tourists need to remember that it is better to visit the country during the period May to September. It was at this time in Greece that the temperature is most comfortable for a beach holiday. By the way, the Greek islands are picturesque in autumn-winter period. However, in autumn and winter, the temperature does not rise above 14 degrees, so swimming in the sea will have to be abandoned.

It is very important to remember that the Greeks are believing people who honor Christian traditions. That is why you need to visit the temples in closed clothes. If a girl appears in a religious shrine in a short skirt or shorts, this will cause public outrage. The main secret of a successful trip is a respectful attitude to foreign culture and history.

It is also better to give up traveling on Easter, Good Thursday and Bright Tuesday. Again, the Greeks are very religious people, so services are continuously going on in all the churches of the country these days. Visiting many attractions is prohibited.

Greek Islands - video

We also invite you to enjoy a selection of photos of the islands of Greece in this video.

In general, holidays in Greece will appeal to those tourists who want not only to lie on the beach, but also to enrich themselves culturally. What can be done conclusions from the above?

  • The islands of Corfu and Rhodes are considered the most popular among tourists. The quality of service here is at a high level, but there are too many travelers during the season;
  • The islands of Crete and Harkidiki will pleasantly surprise you with their atmosphere and amazing culture. Local landscapes are simply mesmerizing with their beauty;
  • Travelers can relax on one island, but at the same time visit all the others on the excursion program;
  • The best time to visit the islands of Greece is from May to September.

Perhaps travelers will not immediately understand the Greek culture and traditions of the locals. However, if man fall in love with greece This feeling will stay with him for the rest of his life.