Greek IslandsTravel Guide

The islands offer a variety of accommodation, but all with that undeniable Greek aesthetic − cool indoor spaces in white or neutral tones opening onto bright patios that make the most of sea views or olive groves. Santorini is famed for its whitewashed villages with cobalt blue domes that overlook calm waters of almost the same colour. An interesting experience here is staying in the "cave houses" – these are luxurious residences carved into the mountain. The beautiful, renovated caves and sea captain houses of Old Oia Houses offer self-catering apartments with incredible views from your terrace or your private indoor plunge pool. Lesante Cape Resort & Villas on Zakynthos is a member of The Leading Hotels in the World group, so you know you are in for a treat. With a private beach, seven dining options and luxe-modern rooms with exquisite sea views, staying at this five-star resort will make you feel like a celeb. If you prefer a traditional, chats-with-your-hosts kind of guesthouse, Limeri Monolithos on Rhodes Island is for you! Off the tourist track in the village of Monolithos, this modern taverna has loads of character and offers exquisite sea and mountain views. Tuck into delicious breakfasts featuring locally sourced ingredients, and then go hiking or ‘orchid-hunting’ (these beautiful flowers grow in abundance here).

Wandering around picture-perfect villages, admiring sunsets over the sea, exploring ancient ruins and partying late into the night − life on the Greek Islands is all about being in the moment.
 

 Picture lounging on terraces of tavernas, cafés and restaurants, a frappé or ouzo in hand, tasting your way through a delicious mezze platter. Foodie bliss can be found on all the Greek Islands, but a few spots are worth a special mention. On Naxos Island, local fare consists of garlicky meat, rich goat’s milk cheese and dense walnut cake. Citron tree leaves (citrons are similar to lemons) are distilled into the famous Kitron liqueur. Head to Giannoulis' Tavern to taste some of these delicious items. Skopelos, where Mamma Mia! was filmed, is known for its spiral-shaped, traditional cheese pie. Try this hand-rolled treat at the 32-year-old bakery called Skopelitikes Tiropites Mixalis. Limnos should also be on your foodie island hop. Seafood is a favourite here and always freshly caught. Chargrilled octopus and fried calamari are specialities, as is the island’s red wine (called Kalabaki, Kalambaki, Kalampaki or Limnio) and sesame halva, a kind of fudge. Manos restaurant is a hotspot for seafood, Greek cuisine and its beach bar. Santorini boasts some fine-dining options with Michelin-star chefs heading up restaurants overlooking the famed Santorini caldera – a submerged volcanic crater. Selene restaurant is in a beautiful old monastery and features sampling menus inspired by Greek goddesses. Some culinary creations include white aubergine tart and sea urchin, all carefully paired with wine.  

 Everything from groceries and souvenirs to luxury labels can be found along the cobbled streets of the many villages but Crete, Rhodes, and Skyros are where you can find some of the best traditional Greek needlework. Souvenir shops are generally open until late in the evening. Laikes Agores or farmers’ markets pop up weekly and offer honey, fresh veggies, cheeses and handmade crafts. Look out for the boutiques that sell locally designed products, like the THETA Concept Store on Serifos Island, where you will find beautiful clothes, decor, coffee table books and jewellery made in the area. If you fancy a bit of high-end shopping, the famous, late Greek fashion designer Dimitris Parthenis’s flagship boutique can be found on Mykonos. There are also stores across the other islands. Like to hit the malls? Then Crete and Rhodes are among your best bets. Crete’s capital city, Heraklion, offers several pedestrian shopping streets, which are like open-air malls. Examples are Dikeosinis Street and Dedalou Street lined with stores like Zara, Marks and Spencer and BOSS. In Rhodes, some prime shopping destinations are Cyprus Square featuring boutiques and jewellery shops, and Le Desir, the island’s biggest shopping centre. Here you’ll find clothing, linen leather items, shoes and watches, as well as souvenirs. 

Island hops are the way to go when visiting the Greek Islands. Ferries whisk you from one to the other but be aware that this service can be limited in the low season. Getting around the Greek Islands in the villages is easy on foot, but hiring a car is also a good option, especially as you can take your vehicle on the ferries.
The wallet-friendly bus service networks, like Ktel on Santorini, have bus stops at all the ports, while routes include beaches and tourist attractions. Each island has its own network, so remember to look up the Ktel buses specific to the region. Taxis are available and easy to spot, but always check the fare first to avoid awkward situations. Note that ride-sharing services like Uber have yet to land on all the islands. Why not rent a scooter (a “papaki”), motorbike or bicycle to get around like a local? Your hotel or B&B can point you to a rental outlet. In the Greek Islands, driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

The beaches in the Greek Islands are exceptional, and it’s not surprising that many have been given Blue Flag status. Featuring golden sands, red sands, black sands, white pebbles and turquoise waters, you are spoilt for choice.