The waters surrounding Greece are home to a wealth of islands that combine natural beauty, cultural richness and a relaxed, adventurous spirit. Whether you’re in Greece for business on the mainland or attending an event on an island, there are countless ways to explore and enjoy the Greek islands.
For travelers based in Athens for work, several nearby islands are perfect for daytrips, letting you return to the city each evening to enjoy its vibrant nightlife. If you have a few days to spare, more distant islands provide the restorative island pace that helps melt away stress and feels like a true escape from the everyday.
Visitors from other cities, such as Thessaloniki, find the islands equally accessible thanks to Greece’s efficient transport network. Domestic flights and an extensive ferry system make it easy to visit a single island or hop between several, from the whitewashed Cyclades like Mykonos and Santoríni to the lush landscapes of the Ionian and the historic Dodecanese.
The Saronic Gulf islands, closest to Athens’ ports, are ideal for short trips or overnight stays. With waters in every shade of blue, quaint villages nestled into hilly terrain and a wealth of activities, these islands are an excellent introduction to island life.
Aegina, one of the larger Saronic islands, is a convenient and rewarding escape. It delivers classic island experiences—sandy beaches, fresh local cuisine and a lively cultural scene.
Spend time in Aegina Town exploring shops and dining at seaside tavernas, enjoy a swim in the calm gulf waters at nearby beaches, or wander through narrow lanes in a horse-drawn carriage while admiring Byzantine churches and 19th-century neoclassical architecture.
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Aegina also hosts several important cultural and historic sites and is compact enough to drive around in a day to see its highlights. Notable attractions include the ancient Temple of Aphaia, the Venetian Tower of Markellos in Aegina Town, and the Temple of Apollo at the prehistoric Kolona site, just north of the port.
Beyond archaeology, Aegina is famous for its pistachio groves. Pistachios appear across the island’s culinary scene—find them in spreads, sweets and savory dishes. Local tavernas commonly feature seafood paired with pistachio-based preparations such as pistachio pâté, pistachio preserves with honey, and roast lamb with a pistachio crust.
If you can stay a few days, the Cycladic island of Paros is an excellent choice reachable by ferry or plane. Although you can drive around Paros in a few hours, its range of activities and attractions can fill a weekend or longer. The island’s white buildings with blue trim, wind-swept coastline and occasional windmills embody the classic Cycladic atmosphere.
Cobblestone streets wind through Parikia, the island’s port, and Naoussa, a lively fishing village on the northern coast with a colorful pirate history. These towns hide charming shops, artisan boutiques and cafés offering local specialties.
Parikia’s must-sees include the fourth-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani, known as the Church of 100 Doors, and the ruins of a Frankish castle. Naoussa, centered around a 15th-century Venetian fortress, remains an active fishing port and offers iconic photo moments like octopus drying outside waterfront tavernas.
Outside Naoussa, Moraitis Winery is set in a picturesque stone building and provides tastings that showcase Paros’ winemaking tradition, paired with Greek dishes that complement the local wines.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Paros’ hiking trails, which cater to different skill levels, and its beaches, which range from sheltered swimming coves to windier stretches ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Notable beaches include Kolymbithres near Naoussa and Santa Maria on the northeastern tip, while Golden Beach on the eastern shore is a hotspot for wind-based water sports.
Crete, the largest Greek island, attracts visitors for both business and leisure. As the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete blends historical sites with family-friendly beaches, varied landscapes and abundant outdoor activities.
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Key archaeological sites like the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion offer an engaging way to introduce children to ancient history. Crete’s varied terrain—deep gorges such as Imbros and Kourtaliotiko, numerous caves including Dikteon Cave linked to Zeus myth, and tranquil Lake Kournas—invites exploration and outdoor adventure.
With more than 200 inhabited islands to choose from, every traveler can find an island that fits their interests. Greece’s well-organized transportation network makes it feasible to include island visits even when your primary commitments keep you on the mainland, allowing families and travelers to build unforgettable island experiences into business trips or vacations.
LODGING
Aneli Luxury Villas
Aegina’s Aneli Luxury Villas capture the classic island aesthetic with whitewashed buildings and blue accents, offering beachfront views and memorable sunsets just north of Aegina Town.
Stratigou Georgiou Mpitrou 180 10, Aegina
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Astir of Paros
Paros offers upscale options as well; the Astir of Paros is a five-star resort near Naoussa with beachfront suites available seasonally.
Kolymbithres 84 401, Naoussa, Paros
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Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
For high-end luxury on Crete, Domes of Elounda provides lavish accommodations and pristine pools alongside a beautiful beach setting.
Tsifliki, Elounda, Crete
$$$$$
DINING
Bakalogatos
In Aegina Town, Bakalogatos serves traditional dishes with modern touches in a scenic portside location.
Corner of Pan Irioti and Neoptolemou 180 10, Aegina Town, Aegina
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Chrisostomos
Located in Chania, Chrisostomos focuses on Cretan flavors and local ingredients such as olive oil, honey, legumes, greens and dairy for authentic regional dishes.
Defkalionos and Ikarou, Chania Town, Crete
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Siparos Seaside Restaurant
One of Paros’s standout dining spots, Siparos offers a locally sourced menu and is worth planning ahead and reserving in advance.
Xifára 844 01, Naoussa, Paros
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INFO ON THE GO
Most Greek islands are accessible by plane, ferry or a combination of both. Ferries from the ports of Piraeus or Rafina in Athens connect to many islands, while domestic flights through major airports offer faster travel to islands with airports.
Ferry companies operate extensive routes to reach islands without airports, and during summer the frequency of departures increases with daily services to many destinations. Local travel services can help coordinate multi-island itineraries that combine ferries and flights for efficient island-hopping.