11 Picture-Perfect Greek Islands That You Must Experience

Greece offers an amazing combination of history, culture, and natural beauty that few other countries can match. The Greek islands are known for their incredible beauty, but with well over 200 inhabited islands, deciding which ones to visit is challenging.

Here, we’re listing and showcasing the best of the best, to help you decide which Greek islands to put on your bucket list.

1. Santorini

Santorini is possibly the most iconic Greek island, known for its dramatic cliffs, white-washed buildings, and stunning sunsets. Located in the Aegean Sea, this crescent-shaped island offers endless photographic opportunities, from the vibrant blue domes of Oia to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri.

In addition to its breathtaking vistas, Santorini is also renowned for its unique volcanic landscape, shaped by a series of eruptions that created the island’s rugged beauty. The caldera, formed from these volcanic activities, provides a spectacular backdrop for photography, especially during golden hour.

Visitors can explore the island’s black sand beaches, such as Kamari and Perissa, which are unlike any other in Greece, offering a distinctive contrast against the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

📍 How to Get There

You can reach Santorini by direct flights from Athens or several European cities. Alternatively, ferries run frequently from Athens’ port of Piraeus.

2. Corfu

Corfu, nestled in the Ionian Sea, is a lush island known for its olive groves, turquoise waters, and Venetian architecture. The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to picturesque narrow streets and historic landmarks, perfect for capturing the essence of Greek history and culture.

Corfu also boasts beautiful landscapes waiting to be photographed. The island is dotted with picturesque beaches, from the secluded coves of Paleokastritsa to the lively atmosphere at Glyfada.

📍 How to Get There

Corfu is accessible via direct flights from major European cities and domestic flights from Athens. Ferries also operate from the Greek mainland and neighboring countries like Italy.

3. Mykonos

Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. The beaches, like Psarou and Elia are incredibly beautiful, especially during sunrise and sunset. The island’s rugged coastline provides dramatic cliffs and hidden coves that photographers love.

The town of Mykonos (Chora) is a maze of charming white-washed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, perfect for street photography. The iconic windmills, positioned on a hill overlooking the sea, provide a perfect backdrop.

📍 How to Get There

Direct flights to Mykonos are available from Athens and several European cities. Ferries also connect Mykonos to Athens and other Cycladic islands.

4. Milos

Milos is known for its diverse landscapes and colorful rock formations. Sarakiniko Beach, with its lunar-like terrain, and the fishing village of Klima, with its brightly painted houses, are just a couple of the highlights waiting to be captured.

The island is renowned for its unique geological formations, particularly at Kleftiko, a remote area accessible only by boat. Here, towering rock formations rise dramatically out of the turquoise waters, creating a striking contrast that is perfect for photography. The beauty of the sea caves and turquoise waters, coupled with the secluded environment, is ideal for capturing both underwater and aerial shots.

In addition to its captivating coastlines, Milos is home to charming and vibrant villages that reflect the island’s rich history and culture. The village of Plaka, perched high on a hill with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Photographers can explore the narrow streets filled with local art and picturesque doorways, while the ancient theatre ruins provide historical context.

📍 How to Get There

Ferries from Athens and other Cycladic islands are the primary means of reaching Milos. Flights are also available from Athens.

5. Crete

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers a rich blend of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and rugged mountains. The Venetian Harbor in Chania, the Palace of Knossos, and the Samaria Gorge are just a few of the many locations where you can capture spectacular photos.

The island is home to several picturesque gorges, such as the Imbros Gorge, which boasts dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. The hike through this natural wonder offers several unique vantage points. Additionally, the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) provide an awe-inspiring backdrop.

The island also features many traditional villages, like Archanes and Anogeia, where vibrant local life can be captured against the backdrop of quaint architecture and gorgeous mountain views.

📍 How to Get There

Crete is accessible via direct flights to its main airports in Heraklion and Chania from Athens and various international destinations. Ferries also connect Crete to the mainland and other islands.

6. Paros

Paros is another Cycladic gem, known for its charming villages and stunning beaches. Naoussa, a picturesque fishing village, and the golden sands of Kolymbithres Beach are perfect spots for photography.

Paros also offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the Cyclades, particularly at the renowned Lighthouse of Naxos. Positioned on the northern coast, this lighthouse is surrounded by rugged cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea, creating a striking contrast perfect for capturing dramatic sunset images.

Another highlight for photographers is the village of Lefkes, nestled in the island’s mountainous interior. Here, you will find narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers.

📍 How to Get There

Paros can be reached by ferry from Athens and other nearby islands. Direct flights from Athens are also available.

7. Sifnos

Sifnos combines natural beauty with culinary delights. The traditional villages like Apollonia and the sandy beaches of Vathi create perfect backdrops for capturing the island’s essence. Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the iconic Church of the Seven Martyrs in Kastro.

Sifnos also boasts some breathtaking hiking trails that lead to secluded spots and panoramic vistas. The trail from Apollonia to the ancient site of Chrisopigi offers cincredible views of the Aegean Sea, dotted with distant islands.

📍 How to Get There

Ferries from Athens and other Cycladic islands are the primary means of reaching Sifnos. There is no airport on the island. The closest airports are in Milos and Athens.

8. Kefalonia

Kefalonia, located in the Ionian Sea, is known for its dramatic landscapes and world-class beaches. Myrtos Beach, with its turquoise waters and white pebbles, and the picturesque Assos village are must-visit spots for photographers looking to capture the island’s natural beauty.

One of the island’s most remarkable highlights is the Melissani Cave, where a hidden subterranean lake reflects beautiful turquoise shades. Light peaking through the cave’s opening creates a surreal atmosphere perfect for photography, especially during midday when the sun illuminates the water. Similarly, the nearby Drogarati Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

📍 How to Get There

You can reach Kefalonia via direct flights from Athens and several European cities. Ferries also connect the island to the mainland and nearby islands.

9. Zakynthos

Zakynthos, or Zante, is famous for its Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), one of the most photographed spots in Greece. The island’s Blue Caves, lush interior, and bustling nightlife also provide diverse photographic opportunities.

In addition to its iconic beaches, Zakynthos offers beautiful landscapes. The island’s rugged cliffs provide stunning panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, especially from vantage points such as the viewing platform above Shipwreck Beach.

📍 How to Get There

Direct flights to Zakynthos are available from Athens and various European cities. Ferries are available from the ports of Killini (mainland) and Kefalonia.

10. Syros

Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, is known for its neoclassical architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The town of Ermoupoli, with its pastel-colored buildings and historic landmarks, offers a unique blend of urban and coastal photography.

In addition to its charming architecture, Syros features stunning natural landscapes. The island features many panoramic viewpoints, such as the hilltop village of Ano Syros, with sweeping vistas of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands. The rugged coastline, dotted with rocky cliffs and serene coves, provides endless photo opportunities.

📍 How to Get There

Ferries from Athens and other Cycladic islands are the primary means of reaching Syros. Flights are also available from Athens.

11. Naxos

Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands, offers a mix of ancient ruins, lush valleys, and pristine beaches. The Temple of Apollo, known as Portara, and the charming old town of Naxos Chora are perfect spots for capturing the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

Naxos is also home to picturesque mountain landscapes. The island features Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, which offers challenging hiking trails and breathtaking views from its summit.

The picturesque villages of Apeiranthos and Halki, with their traditional stone architecture, narrow streets, and surrounding olive groves, present additional opportunities.

📍 How to Get There

Naxos can be reached by ferry from Athens and several Cycladic islands. Direct flights from Athens are also available.

Final Thoughts

Greece’s islands are popular among tourists and photographers for their natural beauty and rich culture. From the iconic sunsets of Santorini to the lush landscapes of Corfu, each island provides unique opportunities to capture breathtaking images. Now, it’s time to decide which islands are right for you.