Finding the right Greek island for you

With more than 120 inhabited islands, there are surely places in Greece to match all preferences. Whether you are looking for sandy beaches, history, nature, sports, festivals, food or nightlife, there is no doubt that you will get it. In fact, finding the right Greek island for you is easier than you might believe. Most possibly you will find more than one or two islands to match your tastes.

Best for beaches: Crete, Kefalonia, Mykonos, Lefkada, Zakynthos

The list of the Greek islands with fantastic beaches could be much, much longer. In fact, every single island in Greece has impressive beaches, secluded or organized, sandy or pebbled. The large island of Crete and the Ionian islands are particularly famous for their beaches. In fact, the Ionian Sea distinguishes for the exotic blue or blue-green waters.

Among the best beaches in Greece are Myrtos beach in Kefalonia island, Elafonissi beach in Crete, Super Paradise beach in Mykonos, the Shipwreck beach in Zakynthos, and many more. Also see: Best beaches

Best for views: Santorini, Kefalonia, Folegandros

For sure visitors can find the most breathtaking views on the world-famous island of Santorini. The view from the caldera cliffs to the Aegean Sea and the sunken volcano is among the dreamiest spots in the world. This is why Santorini is one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon places.

In general, all islands offer nice views due to their hilly landscape. Visitors can also get nice views from Chora town in Folegandros and from the top of Mount Aenos in Kefalonia.

Best for history: Rhodes, Delos, Naxos, Crete

Historical sites and monuments are found all around the islands and the Greek mainland. If you are especially interested in history, a place you should not miss is the island of Delos. This is a presently uninhabited island that was dedicated to the cult of god Apollo in the ancient times. Today all the island is an archaeological site and visitors can go there by boat tour from Mykonos or Paros.

Other islands with interesting history are Crete with the Minoan sites, Rhodes with the Medieval castles and Naxos with the various historical monuments of all periods.

Best for nightlife: Mykonos, Paros, Rhodes, Corfu, Skiathos

Mykonos is the most famous Greek island for nightlife and parties. In the day time people party at the beach bars, while in the evening they head to Mykonos Town to bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours. Skiathos also has nice clubs in the Town, and so are Corfu and Rhodes.

Best for diving: Naxos, Paros, Kefalonia, Leros

Shark-free and with limited sea currents, the Greek seas are very safe for diving and snorkeling. A large number of reefs, underwater caves and shipwrecks provide great diving spots. The sea region around Paros, Naxos and Leros are rich in such shipwrecks, some dating from ancient times. The sea region around Kefalonia is mostly rich in caves and reefs.

Best for windsurfing and kite: Naxos, Paros, Rhodes, Kos, Lefkada

The strong stable winds that blow over the Greek seas in the summer season create great conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The best spots for windsurfing and kite in the Greek islands are Mikri Vigla in Naxos island, Golden Beach in Paros, Prassonissi in Rhodes, Mastihari in Kos and Agios Ioannis in Lefkada.