The beautiful and exotic Greek Islands lure visitors in their droves every year making them one of the World's top travel destinations. Greece time means sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, cosmopolitan towns, sugar cube villages, and fresh Mediterranean cuisine. The Greek islands have it all, whether you’re looking for history, romance, natural beauty or glamour and crazy nightlife. Each is special in its own way - you just have to know where to look. Here’s our pick of the five islands we chose and why you should see them now. Santorini in the southern Cyclades is one of the most famous, and prettiest destinations in the Greek islands. Home to some of the most dramatic views in the world; picture-perfect towns perching on the edge of the extinct volcano, winding cobblestone streets and glorious sunsets. You can soak up the sun on Santorini’s multicolored beaches; meander the delightfully narrow streets of Oia; go wine tasting, gaze upon ancient ruins or jump on a boat to the uninhabited volcanic islands nearby. Famous for some of the best sunsets in the world, Oia is the most famous place on Santorini to see the sunset. Watch the sun dip down below the horizon as the sky turns orange, yellow and pink behind the classic blue domed churches, whitewashed buildings, and infamous windmill. Watch from a cafe, a boat or jostle for position amongst the crowds at Sunset Point - it doesn't matter where you see it - you'll be spellbound. Poise your camera for the infamous sunset shot - it's one of the world's all-time classic views. Milos is the southernmost island in the Cyclades. Known for its horseshoe shape and rugged, dramatic coastline, this volcanic island offers more than 75 beaches of all shapes, sizes and varieties. The tiny cove of Sarakiniko is out of this world. A tiny white cove nestled between impossibly blue sea and awe-inspiring white rock formations. The barren landscape is so incredibly beautiful and unique - you'll feel like you're walking on the moon. Blessed with oh-so Greek whitewashed sugarcube villages you’ll also find small, colourful houses along the shoreline where fishermen shelter their boats in winter. Between its beautiful beaches, its rich history, its unique landscape and its friendly people Milos is a truly unforgettable Greek getaway. Don’t let its reputation for wild parties, fun and hedonism put you off a trip to Ios. Whilst it certainly has its share of youngsters up to hijinks in July & August visit in shoulder season and you’ll a quieter pace. Spend your days meandering the winding footpaths of the traditional hilltop old town or settled on a long stretch of golden sand. Discover the isolated interior and then head back to town in time for the party. The fun and frivolous atmosphere in Ios is contagious. In the early evening, Chora is cosmopolitan, lively yet still very family-friendly. The restaurants are buzzing, the squares filled with people and the bars are open but empty. While Ios is a popular destination, there's also a special magic at work here. If you are looking for a beautiful island, with a little more spice and a laid back vibe, then Ios is for you. With some of the loveliest beaches in the Med and a spectacular medieval town of crumbling buildings and narrow cobbled streets, it's no surprise that Rhodes is one of Greece's top destinations. The jewel of the Dodecanese, Rhodes is only 12 miles from Turkey, hence its heady mix of east and west. Here you’ll find glorious white sandy beaches, mountain villages, forests, waterfalls and palm trees. Don’t miss the stunningly preserved medieval fortress and Unesco heritage site that is Rhodes Old Town. Without doubt one of the most fascinating and classically beautiful walled towns in the world. Head to Lindos village for everything you could possibly want in a Greek summer holiday. A lovely safe sandy beach, a magnificent hilltop castle, a smattering of bars and boutiques, and no shortage of delicious, tavernas. Last but not least, the largest island in Greece has much to be proud of, from incredible beaches and majestic mountains to Venetian harbours and charming fishing villages. Beautiful and diverse Crete boasts the biggest variety of places to sleep, eat, shop and play. With the greatest choice of accommodation, tavernas, supermarkets and boutiques it’s also the best place to bag a bargain. With stunning beaches, snow-capped mountains and dramatic gorges, it’s all about getting out and about in the great outdoors. Spend your days trekking deep gorges, swimming in tiny coves or just lazing about in lagoon paradise. Don’t miss exploring the lively, Venetian towns of the north coast. Impressive fortresses, Turkish mosques, quintessentially Greek fishing harbours and cosmopolitan boutiques make Chania or Rethymnon prime candidates. History buffs will love exploring the harbourside towns, Minoan Palaces and ancient archaeological sites dotting the island. While Crete has its fair share of bustling beaches, you can easily find yourself off the beaten track. Most visitors flock to the north coast resorts leaving other parts of the island blissfully empty. With more than 2,000 islands to choose from Greece is unmatched for sheer variety. Beaches, history, hiking, cycling, water sports, festivals or culinary cuisine: chances are if you want it, they've got it. Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email. Δ