If you’re looking for a summer holiday but want to avoid the loud night clubs of Mykonos and swathes of crowds in Santorini – check out these lesser-known Greek islands that are still ‘stunning’
Greece’s postcard-worthy islands have long been a hit with sun-worshipping Brits, but so many go unnoticed and unappreciated.
If you’re looking for incredible sunsets, good food, and cheap flights – Greece is probably already on your holiday radar. Each year, the country attracts more than 31 million tourists each year, and for good reason.
Santorini is perhaps one of the country’s most acclaimed islands, famed for its blue-domed white buildings and crystal clear waters. However, the tiny isle – which is only home to 15,000 residents – has garnered backlash for becoming insanely overcrowded and expensive in recent years. Mykonos is another popular destination – renowned for its DJs and huge dance clubs. But if you’re no longer a raver who can stay up until 4am – you might want to give this one a miss too.
Luckily, a travel pro has shared the best ‘untouched’ islands she visits to avoid the bustling crowds and selfie sticks…
“The biggest mistake people make when visiting Greek islands is only visiting Santorini and Mykonos,” TikTok star Amanda Monique said. “Naxos is a large island with tons of amazing beaches, cute mountain villages, adventure activities, restaurants, you name it. This is an island I keep coming back to. Whilst there is an airport in Paros, you’ll have to fly to Athens first as there are no direct flights to the island from the UK. Luckily, many UK airlines have direct flights to the capital, including Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Gatwick and Heathrow.
Monique also recommended visiting Paros, which neighbours Naxos. She described the island as having ‘similar vibes’ but has a ‘wider range of unique beach options’. “Milos is [another] must-visit island,” she added. “It has the most insane landscapes with red rock beaches, white moon beaches, cliff jumping, boat tours, and hidden beaches with rope ladders.” Again, whilst Naxos does have a small airport, Brits will need to either fly to Athens first or can get a boat if they’re travelling from Paros.
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The travel enthusiast then raved about Koufonisia for anyone if looking for ‘remote and relaxing Greek island vibe. She says the ‘tiny’ destination only has a ‘few amenities’ but has the ‘most insane water’ she’s ever seen. Usurpingly, there is no airport in Koufonisia so travellers will need to arrive by ferry which is over five hours from Athens. Alternatively, you can take the flight from Athens to Naxos and then get a shorter boat ride to Koufonisia – which is only around one hour and 20 minutes.
Lastly, Monique urged her viewers to holiday in Zakynthos. “It’s a bit further away than the other islands but worth it nonetheless,” she explained. “If you go, you have to rent a boat for the day to see the cliffs from the water – it’s stunning.” You can fly directly to Zakynthos from many UK airports including Manchester, Gatwick, Luton, and Bristol. You can also get a one hour and 15 minute ferry ride from Athens to Zakynthos if you’re struggling to find direct flights, or want a few days walking around the capital.
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