Thinking of going to Greece? Well, you really must hit the Greek islands. Not only is it what the country is famous for, but each island has something unique, and each of them has a great reason why you should visit.
Let's start with a half dozen, shall we?
Milos: Have you ever been to a beach with sand that's so white it looks like snow? That's Milos – an unreal, un-crowded Greek island that's like something out of a movie – or maybe an alien planet. From beach relaxation to cliff jumping for the adrenaline junkies, Milos has it all!
Mykonos: Here’s the classic Greek party island! Overrun and overcrowded? Maybe. But there's a reason. Mykonos is the place to be in the Aegean. Nightlife galore. Food to die for. Pristine white buildings that feel like a movie set. This island has it all, and well earns its crowds! However, unlike some of the smaller, laid-back Greek islands, you can’t just show up here and expect to find decent accommodations. For the best hotels, book at least 3-6 months early.
Naxos: This is one of the more picturesque islands in the Aegean. Here you can drive (or hike!) up into the hills and catch a spectacular view of a delightful, quaint town across the valley. Perfect for families, this is an island where you can bring your kids to relax – or run around, if that’s what the kids prefer doing!
Paros: This island is the ideal place to take a break from all the running around and just chill. Where else can you stand on a stone dock on the shores of the Mediterranean, and gaze at the pile of vibrant white houses on the hill beyond, topped by a two-spited white cathedral? A less touristy island than many, the locals here are fantastic. And the food – often straight from the sea – is, if possible, even better. A must-see in this stunning country.
Antiparos: Antiparos is located right next to Paros – a mere five minute ferry ride away. But in terms of tranquility, it’ll feel like you stepped into Heaven. Not that Paros is a bustling metropolis, but Antiparos is even more tranquil – and the water is, somehow, even more translucent and blue!
Sifnos: If you’ve never tried Greek cooking, you’re going to want to, on Sifnos. This island’s most famous inhabitant is Nicholas Tselementes, who – in 1910 – wrote the first Greek cookbook. And on this island, a feast is just a matter of course. It’s not just moussaka; it’s stewed capers and chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples, and potteries that produce the casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastello (lamb with red wine and dill).
And that's just the beginning! So many reasons to visit Greece, but it's very nice to stray away from the beaten path every now and then. Until next time...travel safely!