5 Top Islands in Greece
Greece is a popular travel destination with a rich culture, diverse landscapes and an eventful history. Greece is located in southeastern Europe and borders the Mediterranean, Aegean and Ionian Seas. Greece has more than 3,000 islands, around 200 of which are inhabited.
Here I introduce you to the 5 top islands in Greece:
1. Crete: Crete is a fascinating island that has a long and rich history. It is the largest and southernmost island in Greece and lies in the eastern Mediterranean. Crete is known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity and mythological significance.
2. Rhodes: Rhodes is a Greek island that belongs to the Dodecanese and is located in the southeast of the Aegean Sea. It is the fourth largest island in Greece and has an area of around 1,400 square kilometers.
3. Santorini: Santorini is one of the most fascinating islands in Greece, known for its breathtaking beauty, volcanic history and romantic atmosphere.
4. Corfu: Corfu is a picturesque island in the Ionian Sea known for its lush green landscape and rich cultural history. The island features a fascinating mix of Venetian, French and British architecture, giving it a unique European feel.
5. Zakynthos: Zakynthos is one of the most exotic Greek islands. It is located next to the Peloponnese in the magical Ionian Sea and offers a beautiful natural landscape and fantastic beaches. As you explore the island, you will discover picturesque hilltop villages, traditional monasteries and beautiful natural scenery.
1. Crete travel destination
Crete is an enchanting island with a long and storied past. As the largest and southernmost island of Greece, it lies nestled in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and mythological significance, Crete offers a captivating glimpse into the annals of human history. In this piece, we’ll delve into some of the key historical periods that have shaped Crete, from the Neolithic era to the present day.
The first traces of human habitation on Crete date back to the Neolithic period, around 6000 BC. The island was home to farmers and herders who crafted simple tools and pottery. By 3000 BC, the Minoan civilization emerged on Crete, becoming recognized as Europe's earliest advanced culture.
The Minoans built magnificent palaces such as Knossos, Phaistos and Malia, which served as centers of administration, trade and religion. They had their own script, Linear A, which has not yet been deciphered, and advanced art, architecture and technology. The Minoans dominated the sea and maintained contact with other peoples of the Mediterranean, such as the Egyptians, the Phoenicians and the Mycenaeans. The Minoan culture ended around 1450 BC. BC, probably by a volcanic eruption on the island of Thera, which triggered a devastating tidal wave, or by an invasion of the Mycenaeans, who destroyed the palaces.
After the fall of the Minoans, Crete was conquered by the Mycenaeans, the Dorians and the Romans. The Romans made Crete a province of their empire and built roads, aqueducts and theaters. Crete also became the setting for some famous myths, such as the birth of the god Zeus, the abduction of Princess Europa and the battle between Theseus and the Minotaur.
In the 4th century AD, Crete became part of the Byzantine Empire, which spread Christianity to the island. The Byzantines built many churches and monasteries that can still be seen today. But Crete was also threatened by various attackers, such as the Saracens, the Normans and the Crusaders. In the 13th century, Crete was conquered by the Venetians, who named the island Candia. The Venetians ruled Crete for four centuries and left a great cultural influence. They built fortresses, palaces and fountains that characterize the cityscape of Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno. They also promoted art and literature, such as the famous epic Erotokritos by Vitsentzos Kornaros. Venetian rule ended in the 17th century when the Ottomans conquered Crete.
Ottoman rule was a time of oppression and resistance for Cretans, who maintained their identity and faith. The Cretans rebelled several times against the Ottomans, who often reacted brutally. The most famous revolts were that of Daskalogiannis in the 18th century and that of Eleftherios Venizelos in the 19th century. In 1898, Crete became an autonomous republic under the protection of the great powers, and in 1913 it was finally united with Greece.
In the 20th century, Crete experienced two world wars that severely shook the island. During World War II, Crete was occupied by Germany, who conducted an air raid and a paratrooper invasion. The Cretans offered resistance, which was supported by the Allies. After the war, Crete slowly recovered and became a popular travel destination. However, the island preserves its traditions, its music, its cuisine and its hospitality.
The travel destination Crete is an island that has an eventful and exciting history that has left many traces on its landscape, its culture and its population. Crete is an island worth discovering and appreciating.
Here are a few pictures from Crete:
Destinations on Crete:
Crete is a beautiful island that has a lot to offer. Here are some destinations you can visit in Crete:
Samaria Gorge: One of the longest and most spectacular gorges in Europe, running through the White Mountains. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers. You can book your tour at Get Your Guide*.
Agios Nikolaos: A charming port town on Mirabello Bay that has a picturesque lake, an archaeological museum and many cafes and taverns. How about renting a speedboat? No problem from Agios Nikolaos. Click here to go directly to the rental via Get Your Guide*.
Spinalonga: A small island that is home to a Venetian fortress and a former leper colony. A place full of history and emotions. You can find activities in Spinalonga at Get Your Guide*.
Lassithi Plateau: A fertile plateau lined with windmills. Here you can visit the birth cave of the god Zeus and get to know the traditional Cretan way of life. Jeep tours are available from Get Your Guide*.
Heraklion: The capital and largest city of Crete, which offers many attractions such as the Venetian Koules Fortress, Agios Titos Church and the Morosini Fountain. How about a horseback riding trip to the Cretan mountains from Heraklion? You can book this activity at Get Your Guide*!
Palace of Knossos: The most famous archaeological site in Crete, which was the center of the Minoan culture. Here you can admire the magnificent ruins of the palace associated with the legend of the Minotaur. Guided tours without queuing are available at Get Your Guide*.
Réthimnon: A picturesque town that showcases a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture. Here you can visit the Fortezza Fortress, the Neratze Mosque and the Venetian Harbor.
Arkadi Monastery: A historic monastery that is a symbol of Cretan resistance to Ottoman rule. Here you can see the impressive church, the museum and the powder magazine.
Chania: One of the most beautiful cities in Crete that has a rich history and culture. Here you can explore the old Venetian port, Agios Nikolaos Cathedral and the market.
Vai Beach: An exotic beach surrounded by a palm forest. Here you can enjoy the crystal clear water, the fine sand and the tropical atmosphere.
Lefka Ori: A mountain range that has some of the highest peaks in Crete. Here you can admire the breathtaking landscape, snowfields and gorges.
That was some information, in brief, about the island of Crete. You can find a travel calculator for Greece at the very end of the Greece page! Or click HERE to go straight to the travel calculator.
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2. Travel destination Rhodes
The travel destination Rhodes is a Greek island that belongs to the Dodecanese and is located in the southeast of the Aegean Sea. It is the fourth largest island in Greece and has an area of around 1,400 square kilometers. It has 125,113 inhabitants according to the 2021 census, most of whom live in the city of Rhodes, which is also the capital of the island and the South Aegean region.
Rhodes has a rich and diverse history that dates back to ancient times. The island was famous for the Colossus of Rhodes, a huge bronze statue of the sun god Helios, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World but was destroyed by an earthquake. The island was also the seat of the Order of St. John, who defended it against the Ottomans in the Middle Ages and built many fortresses and churches. The Old Town of Rhodes is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rhodes is also a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, mild climate and lively nightlife. The island has many attractive beaches suitable for various activities such as swimming, surfing, diving or sunbathing. The island also has many picturesque villages that preserve the island's traditional architecture and culture, such as Lindos, Archangelos or Embona. The island also has many cultural and historical attractions that show the heritage of the different civilizations that have shaped the island, such as the Valley of the Butterflies, the Acropolis of Lindos, the Grand Master's Palace or the Archaeological Museum.
The destination of Rhodes is a beautiful island in Greece that has many attractions to offer. Here are some of the best ones you shouldn't miss:
The Grand Master's Palace is an impressive medieval fortress that forms the center of Rhodes Old Town. You can admire the magnificent mosaic floors, the historic rooms and the wonderful views from the terrace. Tickets are available from Get Your Guide* from €5.50 per person.
The Acropolis of Lindos is an ancient site perched on a hill above the picturesque village of Lindos. You can visit the ruins of the Temple of Athena Lindia, the Propylaeum, the theater and other monuments. Entry from €8 at Get Your Guide*.
The Kallithea Therme is a historic building built by the Italians in the 1920s to take advantage of the area's healing springs. You can enjoy the elegant architecture, beautiful gardens and crystal clear pools.
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The beaches of Rhodes are perfect for sunbathers, watersports enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. You can choose from a wide variety of sandy, pebbly, and rocky beaches that stretch along the coastline. Some of the most popular include Faliraki, Tsambika, Anthony Quinn, and Prasonisi.
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Prasonisi peninsula is a paradise for surfers and kitesurfers who can take advantage of the strong winds and waves. You can also admire the unique geography of the peninsula, which can be an island or a headland depending on the time of year.
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Moni Thari monastery is a peaceful place located in a valley in the south of the island. Founded in the 9th century, it houses a valuable collection of icons, frescoes, and manuscripts.
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The Valley of the Butterflies is a green oasis inhabited by thousands of colorful butterflies that nest here between June and September. You can take a walk through the shady forest and admire the beauty of nature.
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The Seven Springs is another natural attraction you can visit in Rhodes. You can see the seven springs that form a small lake and walk through a 186-meter-long tunnel connecting the lake to the river. A bus tour from Rhodes via Lindos to the 7 Springs is available on Get Your Guide*.
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The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is an interesting museum housed in a former hospital of the Knights of Saint John. It displays finds from various periods of Rhodes' history, such as ceramics, sculptures, coins, and jewelry.
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The Colossus of Rhodes was one of the most famous sights of antiquity, but unfortunately no longer exists. It was a giant bronze statue of the sun god Helios that stood at the entrance of the harbor and was one of the Seven Wonders of the World. You can see a replica of the statue in the harbor of Mandraki.
These are just a few of the many attractions you can discover in Rhodes. The island has much more to offer, such as historic villages, picturesque landscapes, delicious cuisine, and friendly people. Rhodes is an island that will surely captivate you.
Here are a few pictures from Rhodes:
The destination of Rhodes is an island that has something to offer for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature or entertainment. It is an island that can be easily reached by plane or boat and has good infrastructure and a friendly population. It is an island not to be missed when visiting Greece. Rhodes is high on my list, especially because Rhodes is not a mini island!
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3. Destination Santorini
The destination of Santorini is one of Greece's most fascinating islands, known for its breathtaking beauty, volcanic history and romantic atmosphere. Here are some things you should know about Santorini:
Santorini is the name of a small archipelago in the southern Aegean Sea, consisting of five islands: Thira, Thirasia, Aspronisi, Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni. Thira is the largest and most famous island, often equated with Santorini. The islands are the remains of a huge caldera that was formed by a massive volcanic eruption about 3,600 years ago. This eruption, known as the Minoan or Thera eruption, was one of the most powerful in human history and had far-reaching consequences for the ancient Minoan civilization.
Santorini has a unique landscape formed by volcanic activity. The beaches have different colors, from black to red to white, depending on the rock they are made of. Some of the most popular beaches are Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, Red Beach and White Beach. The island also has rich flora and fauna that have adapted to the dry and barren conditions. Typical plants include capers, prickly pears, vines and tomatoes, all known for their quality and taste. The native animals include donkeys, cats, pelicans and seagulls.
Santorini is famous for its picturesque villages clinging to the steep cliffs of the Caldera. The most famous are Fira, Oia, Imerovigli and Firostefani, all of which offer spectacular views of the sea, volcanic islands and sunset. The houses are built in a typical Cycladic style, with white walls, blue domes and colorful doors and windows. The villages are full of charming shops, cafes, restaurants and art galleries that invite you to stroll and enjoy.
Santorini has a long and diverse history spanning many cultures and eras. The oldest traces of human settlement date back to the Neolithic period. The island was an important part of the Minoan culture, which flourished between 2000 and 1600 BC. had. The Minoan city of Akrotiri, buried under a thick layer of volcanic ash, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Santorini and shows the high development of this civilization. After the volcanic eruption, the island was conquered and influenced by various peoples such as the Phoenicians, the Dorians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians, the Crusaders, the Ottomans and the Greeks. Each of these cultures left their mark on the architecture, art, religion and language of the island.
Santorini has a vibrant and modern culture inspired by tradition and innovation. The island is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world who are attracted by its beauty and charm. The island offers a variety of activities and experiences, such as hiking, cycling, sailing, diving, wine tasting, museum visits, wellness and much more. The island also has a rich culinary scene influenced by local and international cuisine. Typical dishes include fava (a porridge made from yellow peas), tomato keftedes (fried tomato balls), melitinia (sweet cheese tarts) and baklava (a puff pastry with nuts and honey)3. The island also produces some excellent wines made from the native Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani grape varieties.
Here are a few pictures from Santorini:
10 things to do in Santorini:
Here are 10 fantastic activities you can enjoy on the beautiful island of Santorini. Of course, there's so much more to discover, but this is a great starting point.
Santorini is a stunning island that offers a plethora of activities for every traveler. Here are some ideas to inspire your next adventure:
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Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise with delicious food and drinks. Witness the island's beauty from a different perspective as you sail past breathtaking cliffs and volcanic landscapes.
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Hiking the Fira to Oia Trail: Embark on a memorable hike along the caldera, taking in panoramic views, charming villages, and traditional architecture.
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Wine Tasting: Indulge in Santorini's world-famous wines. Visit local wineries and savor the unique flavors of Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani, produced from the island's volcanic soil.
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Exploring Villages: Wander through the picturesque streets of Oia, Fira, and Pyrgos. Admire the whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and vibrant bougainvillea.
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Oia Sunset: Capture the iconic Santorini sunset from the charming village of Oia. This is a must-do experience for any visitor.
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Red Beach: Relax on the unique Red Beach, known for its striking red sand and cliffs.
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Volcano Tour: Discover the volcanic origins of Santorini with a trip to the nearby volcanic islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.
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Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Explore the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri, preserved under volcanic ash.
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Savor the Flavors: Delight your taste buds with Santorini's diverse cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional Greek dishes, there's something for everyone.
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Photography Tour: Capture the island's beauty with a guided photography tour. Learn tips and tricks from a professional photographer.
Santorini is a destination that will leave you enchanted. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this island has it all.
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4. Corfu travel destination
Corfu, an island deeply rooted in Greece's history, offers a fascinating mix of cultural influences, natural beauty and historical significance. The island, also known as Kerkyra, lies in the Ionian Sea and forms the northwestern border of Greece. With an area of 610.9 km² and a population of approximately 99,134 people in 2021, Corfu is a vibrant place that attracts visitors from all over the world. The history of Corfu is rich and diverse.
The island was once part of the Byzantine Empire before coming under the rule of Venice in the 13th century. This Venetian period left an indelible impact on the island's architecture and culture. The two impressive fortresses, the Old Town (Palio Frourio) and the New Town (Neo Frourio), are evidence of Venetian military architecture and served as a defense against Ottoman incursions.
British rule in the 19th century brought further changes, and in 1864 Corfu finally became part of modern Greece. The island also has a rich mythological history; it is often associated with Homer's Odyssey, where it served as a refuge for the hero Odysseus. Corfu's landscape is characterized by lush olive groves, cypress trees and a variety of wildflowers that cover the island's hills and valleys. Beaches vary from long stretches of sand to hidden coves with crystal clear waters. Places like the Canal d’Amour are known not only for their natural beauty, but also for the legends that surround them.
The capital of the island, also called Corfu, is known for its charming old town, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with neoclassical buildings that tell of the island's long and diverse history. The Liston, a French-style arcade, and Spianada Square are popular meeting places for locals and tourists alike.
Corfu's culinary delights reflect diverse cultural influences, with cuisine that combines Italian and Mediterranean flavors. Local specialties such as pastitsada (a spicy meat dish) and sofrito (meat marinated in garlic and vinegar) are just some of the dishes to try in Corfu.
Corfu is also a center of education and culture. The Ionian University offers a wide range of study programs and contributes to the lively atmosphere of the island. Cultural events, festivals and the island's traditional music, the Kantádes, are an integral part of Corfu's social life.
Tourism plays an important role in the island's economy.
Visitors come to experience the historical sites, breathtaking nature and hospitable people. Although Corfu is a popular tourist destination, there are still many untouched places to discover that preserve the island's authentic beauty.