12 Greek Islands That Are Perfect for First-Timers—Prepare for Stunning Views and Serious Wanderlust

Greece has over 200 habitable islands, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Given the sheer number of options, the choice of which Greek island to explore can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.

With so many options, how do you choose the perfect islands for your first Greek adventure? As a Greek myself, I have been to all the islands mentioned below several times – and to many lesser-known ones.

In this guide, we highlight the 12 best Greek islands to visit on your first trip, striking a balance between famous destinations and lesser-known gems. While the popular islands offer undeniable charm, the hidden treasures reveal Greece’s true essence.

We want you to experience the best of both worlds—exploring renowned spots while uncovering those off-the-beaten-path treasures yet to be overrun by international tourism. We also want to help you avoid the common mistake of visiting just one or two famous islands and considering your trip complete.

That being said, visit these 12 Greek islands on your first trip to Greece; you will be glad you chose them.

Santorini

Santorini is probably the most popular Greek island among international tourists. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, villages, black sand beaches, and a dramatic caldera formed by a volcanic eruption.

Santorini is also known for its beautiful sunset views, particularly over the caldera. If you are into beautiful villages, make time for Imerovigli and Oia, a great sunset-watching spot. Beach lovers can have a good time at Kamari, Perissa, and Red Beaches.

It is no secret that Santorini is popular. Everyone knows it, and it is widely loved by international tourists. Therefore, when visiting, you will most probably meet large crowds of tourists. However, do not let this intimidate you. Plan your trip early, or consider going during the low season. The views of the caldera are worth the hype.

Mykonos

Mykonos is another must-visit Greek island well-known for its lively nightlife and charming Cycladic architecture. Again, Mykonos may attract crowds, but it is worth the hype it receives. It is especially an excellent destination for luxury lovers and party animals. If this is your vibe, you will love the wide variety of beach parties, bars, and nightclubs Mykonos offers.

Some of the most loved beaches on the island include Paradise, Super Paradise, and Psarou.

You can also head to Ano Mera village to explore its whitewashed houses and authentic Greek village charm. Do not end your Mykonos trip without enjoying sunset views in Little Venice and taking Instagram photos by the famous windmills. While the island may be known for being flashy, its beauty and charm are worth experiencing when visiting the Greek islands.

Crete

Another must-visit Greek island for first-timers is Crete, the country’s largest and most populous island. Large does not always mean more value and adventure, but Crete does offer that. With diverse landscapes, rich history, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches, you will have a lot to explore on this Greek island.

If you are into history, make time for the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

It would be inexcusable to leave Crete without experiencing Elafonissi, a pink beach great for swimming and relaxing; Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s largest longest gorges, perfect for hiking; and Balos Lagoon, a beautiful lagoon with white sands and turquoise waters.

Crete is truly an island of contrasts, offering endless adventures for tourists.

Rhodes

Rhodes, one of the Dodecanese islands, is known for its historically rich towns. Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. In Rhodes Town, wander through the Knights of St. John’s Grand Master’s Palace, explore the Street of the Knights, and visit the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes.

If you are into charming villages, Lindos, a hilltop village with a sea view, will not fail to impress you. When in Lindos, stroll through the narrow streets admiring the beautiful architecture, find a spot to admire the calm sea from a vantage point, visit the historic Acropolis of Lindos, or relax on Lindos Beach. Head to Anthony Quinn Bay or Tsambika Beach.

Corfu

Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is home to green landscapes, historical architecture, and beautiful beaches. It’s one of Greece’s most popular islands and has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various civilizations, including the Venetians, French, and British.

Start your exploration in Corfu Town, known for its beautiful Venetian architecture. While at it, visit the historical buildings, walk through the Old Town, or find cafes to sample local delicacies.

When in Corfu, do not miss out on the beautiful Achilleion Palace, a neoclassical palace built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

Corfu has so many beaches you can visit. Paleokastritsa, Agios Gordios, Glyfada, Myrtiotissa, and Nissaki are the island’s most beautiful.

Naxos

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Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades group. It offers a mix of historical sites, traditional villages, and natural beauty. Compared to some other Greek islands, it’s less touristy, which gives it a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere.

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Naxos Town, the island’s capital, is the perfect place to explore Venetian architecture and soak in the island’s rich history as you take some Instagrammable shots. Not far from Naxos Old Town, you can visit Portara, a large marble doorway that was supposed to be the entrance to the Temple of Apollo. Portara is historic and one of the best places to watch sunsets on the Greek islands.

Lastly, beach lovers visiting Naxos should not miss out on Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios.

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Paros

If there is one thing you wouldn’t be able to resist about Paros is its authenticity. Despite being one of the most famous Cycladic islands, Paros remains relaxed, letting tourists explore its history and natural beauty at a slow pace.

Parikia, the island’s capital, is a great place to explore picturesque streets, charming Old Town, and historical sites. You can then head out to Naoussa, a picturesque fishing village known for its vibrant harbor and lively town.

If you are into Instagrammable moments, you should not miss out on Lefkes – it is one of the most beautiful villages you will ever visit.

After long days of exploration, you can relax on the island’s beaches, including Golden Beach or Kolymbithres.

Wind up your trip by taking a short ferry ride to Antiparos, a small island located just off the coast of Paros. Antiparos is a perfect place to enjoy tranquil beaches or just relax in a laid-back atmosphere.

Lefkada

Unlike many Greek islands, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it easily accessible for travelers. This alone is a good reason for first-time travelers to visit, as you can easily drive or board a bus to Lefkada from the western coast of mainland Greece.

But there is more to Lefkada than accessibility. Its natural beauty, and especially its spectacular beaches, are ones you should not miss on your first trip to Greece. Porto Katsiki, a beautiful beach known for its dramatic white cliffs and crystal clear waters, is not to be missed. You will also love your time at Egremni with fine white sand and deep blue waters, accessible by a long stairway down the cliffs. Lefkada’s beaches are also among Greece’s best spots for windsurfing. If this is your thing, you have every reason to prioritize Lefkada in your itinerary.

Skiathos

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Skiathos, part of the Sporades archipelago, is perfect for first-timers who want to explore lush pine forests, stunning beaches, and beautiful landscapes. The Sporades are also not as touristy and expensive as other islands, so you can enjoy the Greek island charm without burning holes in your pocket. The best place to start your exploration of the Sporades is in Skiathos, which became famous from the movie Mamma Mia.

Spend some time exploring Skiathos Town’s lively nightlife, charming streets, and waterfront. For a taste of its beaches, your best options are Koukounaries, Lalaria, Agia Paraskevi, and Achladies.

Skiathos is also the perfect spot for water sports enthusiasts. Its different beaches offer perfect jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing conditions.

Kefalonia

Kefalonia, the largest island in the Ionian Sea, is nature’s lover’s paradise. This island is perfect for exploring mountainous terrain, beautiful forests, and crystal-clear waters. You will also like the fact that Kefalonia is home to some of Greece’s most picturesque and less crowded beaches, offering first-time tourists the ultimate island experience. Some beaches you would love to enjoy in Kefalonia include Myrtos, Antisamos, Makris Gialos, Skala, and Lourdas.

Do not miss out on Assos Village, one of the island’s most beautiful villages. It features charming streets, a beautiful Venetian fortress, and charming waterfront tavernas.

Other noteworthy spots on this island include Melissani Cave, Drogarati Cave, Fiskardo Village, and Mount Ainos.

Milos

If you have more time for the Cycladic islands, add Milos. This volcanic island is known for its striking geological features and beautiful villages, making it a captivating destination.

Sarakiniko Beach, with its unique rock formations and turquoise water, is a perfect spot to enjoy the island’s otherworldly landscapes. It is also a great place to swim or just relax. Go beyond Sarakiniko and explore Tsigrado, Kleftiko, Firiplaka, and Paleochori beaches.

When in Plaka, the island’s capital, wander through the streets to find Kastro, a castle that offers panoramic views of the island and sea.

If you are into the charm and tranquility of small fishing villages, Mandraki would be the perfect place to unwind and take postcard-perfect photos.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos (Zante) is another Greek island that lets you enjoy a mix of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions. Above everything this island offers, the world-famous Navagio Beach would definitely be the star attraction. It is only accessible by boat, is surrounded by towering cliffs, and is graced by fine white sands, clear waters, and a rusting ship that ran aground in 1980. It is often temporarily closed, so check before going to avoid disappointment.

Navagio aside, Zakynthos is known for being a key nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles. You may be lucky to spot the turtles if you visit between June and October.

Make sure to take a boat ride to the Blue Caves, a series of sea caves known for their striking blue waters and unique rock formations; spend time on Laganas, a long sandy beach that is also a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles; Keri Caves, another series of sea caves perfect for swimming; and Zakynthos Town, the island’s capital, ideal for exploring some historical sites and local cafes.