34 best Greek islands to visit in 2025, plus where to stay on each

The ultimate guide to the best Greek islands: from big-hitters Santorini, Crete and Rhodes to little-known gems Astypalea and Tinos
34 best Greek islands to visit in 2025 plus where to stay on each

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Which is the nicest Greek island to visit?

All have their advantages, but in terms of meeting the sweet spot of authentic island charm, smart hotels and relative ease of accessibility, we recommend venturing to the more underrated islands such as Milos (direct flights from Athens) and Paros (direct flights from London).

Which Greek island is Katie Silcox's favourite to visit?

Choosing a favourite Greek island is a really tough thing to do; I could easily reel off a list of at least 10. But, if pushed, I'd answer with Syros. I'll be honest, there are better beaches on other islands (though remember, in Greece, we're spoiled – the best beaches in other countries still fall far behind any in Syros). But, as the capital of the Cyclades, Syros is open year-round. Yes, even if you visit during December. It's also home to so much history and – as a result – a varied culture. Don't miss the loukoumi or halvadopita, for example, brought to the island in the 1800s by migrants from Asia Minor. I've been lucky enough to stay at Aristide Hotel in the past, and love any excuse to embrace the local life in an Airbnb like this one, but my reason for going back in 2025? Argini Hotel opened on the island in 2024, housed inside a neoclassical former residence – it's also just been awarded with one Michelin Key.

Which Greek island is Sarah Allard's favourite to visit?

I set myself a challenge a few years back to spend a week on a new Greek island every summer. Among my most memorable stays was on Sifnos, largely thanks to its unspoilt landscape, raw authenticity, and distinct lack of tourism. Getting there isn’t especially easy, as there’s no airport on the island and it’s a ferry ride from Athens, but I promise the journey is worth it. The food scene is unparalleled and if I think long enough, I can still taste the smoky calamari and eggplant mousse we ate by the spoonful at Cantina, a hidden gem on the pebble cove of Seralia, where we perched on rocks while the waves crashed below and the sky turned pink. Anyone planning a visit should book a few nights at NOS where no more than four stone buildings mimic a typical Sifnos village and the infinity pool looks out onto the Aegean sea.