Which Greek Islands Should You Visit this Summer?

Greece

Greece is one of those places that never goes out of style, and it only seems to be getting more popular every single year. Films like Mamma Mia! and Before Midnight have shown exactly why the islands are so special, particularly in the summer months.

The islands, spread across the Aegean and Ionian seas, are a brilliant place for incredible beaches, whitewashed villages, and a history and food scene that's hard to beat. But with so many islands to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.

If you’re planning a holiday, this guide covers the best Greek islands for this summer, how to pick the right one for your trip, and some practical tips for your route. We’ll also explain why having the freedom to get around easily can make all the difference to your holiday.

How to Choose the Best Greek Island for Your Trip

Every island has its own personality, so picking the right one is key to having the best time.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, Santorini is the one to go for, with its views of the caldera and lovely hotels. For anyone after a party and a younger crowd, Mykonos is the star location.

On the other hand, if you want a bit of everything, history, nature, and beaches, islands like Crete or Rhodes are ideal. For those who want to avoid the crowds, places like Naxos or Folegandros feel more authentic and relaxed.

The Best Greek Islands to Visit this Summer

Santorini

Santorini is definitely the most famous part of Greece. Its whitewashed houses with blue domes, narrow winding streets, and sunsets over the sea make it a one of a kind destination.

Beyond the town of Oia, it’s well worth exploring Fira, visiting the volcanic wineries, and checking out different beaches like Red Beach or Kamari. It’s perfect for couples or anyone looking for a special experience.

Mykonos

You’ve probably heard of Mykonos as a party destination, but it’s also home to some spectacular beaches. During the day, you can relax at spots like Paradise Beach or Psarou, while at night the island turns into one of the biggest nightlife hubs in Europe.

One thing you definitely shouldn't miss is a walk through the old town at sunset, the white streets and flower-filled balconies are stunning.

Crete

Crete is the biggest island in Greece and it’s really got a bit of everything, culture, nature, and plenty of places to just relax.

There are so many highlights, like the Palace of Knossos and the Samaria Gorge, as well as beaches like Balos and Elafonissi which are famous for their turquoise water. It’s a great choice if you want to travel at your own pace and find spots that are a bit less crowded.

Rhodes

Rhodes is easily one of the most well-rounded Greek islands. Its medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and happens to be one of the best-preserved in Europe.

But there’s more to Rhodes than just history. The island has a huge variety of beaches, ranging from quiet little coves to long stretches of sand. When you add in the great food and plenty of things to see and do, it’s the perfect choice for anyone wanting a bit of everything from their Greek holiday.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is one of the most impressive spots in the Ionian Sea, famous for Navagio Beach, the iconic 'Shipwreck Beach.' With its massive cliffs and bright blue water, it’s easily one of the most photographed places in Greece.

The island is best explored by boat, which lets you find sea caves and hidden bays you can't get to by land. It’s also one of the best places for turtle spotting, which is a massive plus if you're a nature lover.

Corfu

Corfu is one of the greenest islands in Greece, mainly because it gets more rain than the rest of the country. Its capital and many of its villages have a clear Venetian feel, which you can really see in the elegant architecture, the fortresses, and the style of the streets.

It’s the ideal island if you’re after a quieter trip where you can mix nature and culture with plenty of time to unwind. With its mountainous landscapes and hidden beaches, it’s the perfect place to switch off and see a different side of Greece.

Naxos

Naxos is one of those islands that surprises you without shouting about it. It’s less famous than Mykonos or Santorini, but that’s exactly why it’s so charming, it’s quieter, more authentic, and nowhere near as crowded.

You’ll find long, sandy beaches here, along with traditional villages and local food that is definitely worth a try. It’s a great island if you want to take things a bit slower, but still have everything you need to get around easily and enjoy your holiday.

Lesser-Known Greek Islands Worth Discovering

If you want to avoid the tourists and see a quieter side of Greece, there are plenty of islands that aren't as famous but that are still well worth a visit.

Milos is great because of its volcanic landscapes and unusual rock formations. Paros is a good middle ground, it still has that traditional Greek feel and a bit of life to it, but it isn't anywhere near as packed as the bigger names.

Then you’ve got Koufonisia, which is the place to go if you really want to relax. It’s just small beaches, clear water, and a very slow pace of life. Folegandros is also brilliant for a bit of peace and quiet; it’s got amazing views and a simple feel that people really love.

These spots are perfect if you want to get away from the usual spots and see what the rest of the islands have to offer.

Getting Around the Greek Islands

The ferry is the main way to get between the islands, with plenty of trips running every day during the summer. There are also domestic flights, which are handy if you're travelling from one part of the country to another.

However, once you’re actually on an island, public transport is usually quite limited. A lot of the best beaches and viewpoints aren’t easy to get to by bus, and relying on taxis can get expensive and really limit what you can do. Because of this, more and more people are choosing to hire a car to make the most of their stay. Sites like CarJet make it easy to compare prices between different suppliers, so you can find a cheap option that works for you.

Why Hiring a Car is the Best Way to See the Greek Islands

If there’s one thing that will honestly make your trip, it’s hiring a car in Greece. On most of the Greek islands, the best spots are miles away from the main towns and you just can't get to them easily without your own vehicle.

Having a car gives you the freedom to find those hidden beaches, get to the best viewpoints for sunset, and visit tiny traditional villages without having to rely on public transport. With CarJet, you can compare different companies in a few minutes to find a deal that actually fits your budget and needs.It’s a quick, easy, and often cheaper way to sort out how you're going to get around once you're there.

There is just one thing to keep in mind if you’re booking a hire car for your Greek holiday and want to move between the islands: always check the conditions to see if you're allowed to take the car with you. Either way, you can always book through our online form or get 24-hour help from our virtual assistant.