Beyond Santorini: Discovering Romantic Greek Islands

Santorini

Santorini, the quintessential Greek honeymoon destination, captivates with its iconic beauty. Picture-perfect white-washed villages, enchanting blue-domed churches and breathtaking sunsets paint the canvas of this volcanic island. Indulge in the romance of private plunge pools overlooking the caldera in Oia, Fira and Imerovigli, where every moment feels like a dream. Discover Santorini's rich history through its renowned wine-making tradition, savor the unique flavor of tomatoes grown on the island's volcanic soil and embark on unforgettable adventures. Santorini offers an unparalleled honeymoon experience. Whether it's a sunset catamaran cruise, a romantic horseback ride along the beach or exploring the vibrant underwater world with a scuba diving excursion.

The best time to visit Santorini is during the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) when you'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds and more affordable prices.

Milos

Milos, a lesser-known gem in the Cyclades, offers a unique blend of adventure and romance. Unlike the bustling tourist scene of Santorini, Milos provides a more intimate and authentic Greek experience. This island, renowned as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, carries a mythological charm that adds a touch of enchantment. Milos rewards those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Beaches like Tsigrado require a bit of an adventurous spirit, with a short climb down a somewhat precarious ladder. Most beaches prohibit permanent structures, preserving the natural beauty and creating a more intimate atmosphere.

The island boasts diverse landscapes, from the dramatic, lunar-like scenery of Sarakiniko beach, perfect for sunset strolls or a magical experience under the August full moon, to hidden coves and turquoise waters. A must-do activity is a 360° private boat tour, exploring hidden caves, discovering secluded coves and marveling at the island's unique rock formations. The charming village of Plaka offers a taste of authentic Greece with its traditional "mezedopoleia" (taverns serving small plates of delicious local dishes). For a memorable lunch, the Medusa waterfront restaurant provides stunning views and a delightful culinary experience. Beyond the highlights, Milos offers a relaxed pace compared to the busier islands, allowing couples to truly unwind and connect. With minimal light pollution, Milos offers incredible stargazing opportunities, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Milos are perfect for diving and snorkeling, allowing couples to explore the underwater world together. Milos is an ideal destination for adventurous couples seeking an authentic and romantic Greek getaway. Its unique blend of natural beauty, mythological charm and off-the-beaten-path experiences creates an unforgettable honeymoon or romantic escape.

The best time to visit Milos to avoid the peak summer crowds is during the shoulder seasons of May–June and September–October.

Folegandros

Folegandros, a hidden gem in the Cyclades, offers a unique brand of romance that appeals to discerning couples seeking an authentic and intimate Greek experience. Its charming "chora" (town), perched on a clifftop, is straight out of a postcard. Cobblestone streets wind through whitewashed houses, adorned with colorful flowers, while hidden corners reveal cozy tavernas serving delicious local delicacies. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxed, with a noticeable lack of overdevelopment.

The island's less frequent boat connections encourage a slower pace of life, forcing couples to truly disconnect and savor each moment. This relaxed atmosphere fosters intimacy and allows couples to truly connect with each other and the island's unique charm. Folegandros pairs perfectly with Santorini, located just a 45-minute boat ride away, offering the possibility of a multi-island adventure.

Furthermore, Folegandros prioritizes smaller, charming hotels and guesthouses over large resorts. This intimate setting creates a more exclusive and romantic ambiance. If you're seeking a romantic escape that blends authentic Greek charm with a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, Folegandros is the perfect destination.

The best time to visit Folegandros is during the peak summer season, from June to September.

Sifnos

Sifnos, a charming island in the Cyclades, is a true culinary paradise for romantic couples. It is renowned for its exceptional gastronomy. Sifnos attracts both international jet-setters (including notable figures like Tom Hanks and Barack Obama) and discerning Greek travelers.

The island boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with renowned restaurants like Cantina and Omega-3 offering exquisite dishes that showcase the island's fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Beyond fine dining, Sifnos offers a plethora of charming tavernas and bakeries where couples can savor traditional Greek cuisine and indulge in delectable local specialties.

For those seeking a unique and romantic experience, Sifnos offers pottery classes. This allows couples to create lasting memories together while learning about the island's rich ceramic tradition.

While Sifnos boasts beautiful beaches, its true allure lies in its culinary delights and charming villages. Enjoy romantic sunset drinks at Loggia Bar. Explore the island's picturesque villages on foot, and indulge in a leisurely pace of life.

Sifnos is easily accessible from Athens with a short ferry ride. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons: April to June and September to October, when you'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you're a passionate foodie, a lover of art and culture or simply seeking a romantic escape with a touch of Greek charm, Sifnos is sure to enchant you.

Anafi

Anafi remains one of Greece's most unspoiled and authentic islands. This is a true off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers seeking an escape from the crowds and a connection with nature.

Heavily underdeveloped, Anafi boasts a unique charm with limited infrastructure. There's no pharmacy and the single petrol station operates for just one hour a day, a stark reminder of the island's laid-back pace of life. Reaching Anafi requires a long ferry journey from Athens or a shorter hop from Santorini, adding to its exclusive allure.

This is paradise for those who embrace a slower pace and appreciate the beauty of simplicity. Expect to encounter nudists on some of the island's pristine beaches, a testament to the island's relaxed and bohemian spirit. Anafi exudes the charm of 1960s Greece, with a strong emphasis on love, peace and a deep connection to the natural world.

A must-do activity is climbing the majestic rock of Monolithos. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking, offering stunning vistas of Anafi and the surrounding islands. Many adventurous couples even opt to spend the night under the stars on the summit, enjoying a magical experience as the sun rises over the horizon.

While hiking is a popular activity, it's important to note that some trails can be quite challenging. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, exploring the island by scooter or motorbike is a delightful option.

The best time to visit Anafi is during the peak summer season, from July to September. August is particularly special, with the island hosting the vibrant Panigiri festival, where locals and visitors celebrate throughout the night.

Anafi's culinary scene reflects the island's reliance on local produce. Expect to find delectable seafood dishes and daily-changing menus that showcase the freshest ingredients available.

Hydra

Hydra is a timeless escape for dreamers and lovers! The island is steeped in history and romance. It casts an enchanting spell on all who visit. This car-free haven, renowned for its picturesque harbor and charming cobblestone streets, has long been a haven for artists, intellectuals and the Greek elite.

The island's unique ambiance is perfectly captured in Leonard Cohen's iconic song "So Long, Marianne," a timeless ode to love and loss written on Hydra for his muse, Marianne Ihlen. This artistic legacy continues to permeate the island's soul, attracting creatives and those seeking inspiration.

Hydra's amphitheatric design, with houses cascading down the hillside towards the sparkling harbor, has earned it the fitting title of "Theater of Dreamers."(Book by Polly Samsom) The absence of cars and motorcycles creates a unique sense of tranquility, allowing visitors to truly relax and unwind. Life moves at a slower pace, with leisurely strolls replacing hurried journeys.

The island offers a plethora of swim spots, easily accessible by foot or by renting a small boat for a day of exploration. Nearby, the stunning coastline of the Peloponnese awaits, with hidden coves and secluded beaches within easy reach.

Hydra boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with exceptional restaurants like Techne offering a delightful array of Mediterranean flavors.

While a well-kept secret for many, Hydra is a beloved year-round destination for Greeks. Easter is a particularly magical time to visit, when the island explodes in a riot of color, with blooming white daisies, bright red poppies and fields of vibrant green.

Best time to visit: Hydra is enjoyable year-round, except for the winter months of January and February.

Hydra offers a timeless escape for lovers, dreamers and those seeking an authentic Greek experience. It's a place to slow down, reconnect with yourself and your loved one and savor the simple pleasures of life.

Amorgos

Amorgos, a rugged and mystical island in the Cyclades, offers a unique brand of romance for adventurous couples.

The island gained international fame after being prominently featured in "Le Grand Bleu," a beloved (and somewhat haunting) film that has captivated French audiences. This cinematic exposure has added a touch of mystique to Amorgos, drawing travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Amorgos may not boast as many beaches as other Cycladic islands, but it compensates with stunning cliffsides. It offers breathtaking views and opportunities for exhilarating cliff diving into the deep blue waters.

The island's charming hilltop "chora," with its labyrinthine alleys and traditional architecture, provides a picturesque setting for romantic strolls and intimate dinners.

Driving around Amorgos is an adventure, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Amorgos is an ideal destination for couples who appreciate natural beauty, adventure and a touch of cinematic magic. It's an island that invites exploration, encourages introspection and creates lasting memories.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Amorgos is during the summer months (July–September). The weather is warm and sunny, and the island comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere.

Kastelorizo

Kastelorizo, the easternmost inhabited Greek island, is emerging as the Dodecanese's answer to Hydra. This picturesque island, situated closer to Turkey than to mainland Greece, boasts a captivating charm that's hard to resist.

Heavily bombed by the Germans during World War II, Kastelorizo was meticulously rebuilt and restored, resulting in a stunning landscape of colorful houses clustered around the bay. Today, this mostly car-free island offers a tranquil and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic escape.

The island's accessibility has improved significantly in recent years. Regular flights and ferries from Rhodes make it easier than ever to reach this hidden gem of the Mediterranean.

Kastelorizo offers a sense of tranquility and intimacy that's hard to find elsewhere. The pace of life is slow and relaxed, allowing couples to truly connect and savor every moment.

This is a destination for those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The best time to visit Kastelorizo is during the shoulder seasons of May–June and September–October.

Crete

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, may seem vast, but it offers a surprisingly intimate and romantic experience. This diverse island seamlessly blends adventure with relaxation, making it a perfect destination for couples seeking a memorable getaway.

Imagine indulging in the luxury of adult-only boutique hotels with private pools and breathtaking horizon views, offering an intimate and secluded haven. Yet, Crete also beckons adventurous spirits with exciting activities like hiking. The Samaria Gorge is a challenging but rewarding trek. It culminates in a refreshing swim at the gorge's end, followed by a scenic boat ride back to the starting point.

For those seeking unique experiences, Crete offers something for everyone. Explore the nudist-friendly beaches of the south. Marvel at the world-famous white sands of Balos and the enchanting pink sands of Elafonisi. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chania and Rethymno, with their charming Venetian harbors, bustling tavernas and delectable Cretan cuisine.

Discover the island's natural beauty with a visit to the palm-tree-lined Vai Beach. Explore the hidden turquoise coves near St. Nicholas Bay, and delve into the island's history with a visit to the infamous Spinalonga island, a poignant reminder of the past.

For a touch of mythology, explore the magnificent Palace of Knossos, legendary home of King Minos and the mythical Minotaur.

Crete also offers romantic evenings under the stars. Enjoy a captivating film at one of the many outdoor cinemas scattered across the island, creating a magical and unforgettable date night.

Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure or a blend of both, Crete offers an unforgettable romantic experience.

The best time to visit Crete is from April to October.

Paxoi

Paxos and Antipaxos, often referred to simply as "Paxoi," have recently captured the hearts of audiences worldwide thanks to the Netflix romantic drama "Maestro in Blue," which was filmed on these enchanting islands.

Located off the coast of Corfu, Paxos is easily accessible by ferry from the larger island. This idyllic archipelago has long been a favorite among European travelers, particularly Italians, Dutch and French, who have built charming summer homes here over the years.

While Paxos lacks the extensive infrastructure and luxury resorts found on some larger Greek islands, it compensates with its unique charm, stunning natural beauty and a slower pace of life.

The islands boast some of Greece's most picturesque beaches, including the breathtaking Voutoumi beach, accessible only by boat. This secluded paradise offers an intimate and unforgettable experience.

Paxos and Antipaxos are a sailor's paradise. Exploring the islands by boat is highly recommended, allowing you to discover hidden coves, swim in crystal-clear waters and admire the rugged coastline.

The islands offer a charming blend of traditional villages with waterfront tavernas, romantic rental villas and guesthouses and a laid-back atmosphere that encourages relaxation and intimacy.

Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, an adventurous sailing trip or simply a tranquil getaway, Paxos and Antipaxos offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit Paxos and Antipaxos is during the shoulder seasons of May–June and September–October.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Greece page.