Greek Island Discoveries
For many people, Greece brings to mind the great ruins that are spread out through the city of Athens. When you talk about Greek Islands, the vibrant blues of Santorini and Mykonos are on wish lists. But there are many other Greek island discoveries that will keep you exploring for many visits. Whether for history or for local culture, there is a Greek island for everybody!
Our Greek island discoveries were done as excursions when we were on a cruise ship. The cruise ships in the Mediterranean will offer stops at many of the Greek islands. If you are visiting on your own, you may be able to fly on a regional Greek airline to some of the islands. A popular choice if you are travelling slow is to travel between islands by ferry.
Start Your Greece Trip in Athens
If you are visiting the Greek islands, you will probably start your trip by flying into Athens. There was much to see in Athens. Ancient ruins, the great views from the hills surrounding the city or the pageantry of the changing of the guard kept us entertained.
Even if you are visiting for Greek island discoveries, Athens is worth a few days.
Don’t Miss Picturesque Santorini and Mykonos
Santorini and Mykonos are the islands most famous for visitors to Greece. We explored the great beaches by day and found the perfect spot for the sunset. We even got to meet the famous Pelican Pete as he wandered about the harbour area in Mykonos.
The waters were the clearest, bluest we have ever seen travelling. We did not get a chance yet to explore below these clear waters, but it is on our list.
But the vistas and iconic images are what you will want to see on your Greek island discoveries. The windmills were silhouetted against the blue skies. Brilliant blue roofs offset the whitewashed buildings. There was something to see in all directions.
Delve Into The History of Greece
Greek island discoveries will give you a glimpse into past civilizations. We found countless ruins that show the dedication to Greek gods and mythology. Small islands like Delos were preserved as archaeological sites. We wandered around the ruins and then delved into the history in the museum.
The island of Monemvasia was a beautiful, quaint ancient Byzantine fortress nestled under a towering plateau. This small island has changed hands multiple times. The history of occupation was found in the architecture persevered in this small town.
Enjoy the Pace of Greek Island Life
Greek island discoveries will show you islands that are quieter and less touristy. We visited and wandered about to see the Greek people at work and play. Small fishing villages on islands like Crete gave us a chance to enjoy the great beaches. And a slower pace.
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands. When we headed out of the port cities, we explored Minoan ruins, scenic mountains, great beaches, small rustic villages and dramatic landscapes. We found it all in Crete. I’m so glad that we got to explore this beautiful island. As we came on a cruise, all of our transport was already in place for us, which allowed us to really take in the sights at our own pace.
Many of the Greek islands are quite mountainous. We did a 4×4 adventure high into the hills of Corfu that was one of the best shore excursions we have ever done on a cruise. The tour stopped in the small towns to enjoy a stroll, lunch, strong coffee and the local Ouzo.
It was great to drive the twisty roads to amazing viewpoints. Corfu had some of the most amazing aquamarine waters. We are sure to head back to Corfu again with scuba diving gear in hand.
More To Greece Than the Tourist Spots
You should certainly visit Greece and enjoy the more famous tourist spots. Athens is a worth a few days to see the ruins and enjoy a larger Greek city. Santorini and Mykonos are dream destinations for many. But don’t stop there.
Head out for Greek island discoveries to see another side of island life in Greece. You will be taken back to ancient civilizations. There will be beaches and the bluest water for lounging or underwater exploration. And you will see Greece at a slower pace!
What is the favourite of your Greek island discoveries? What would you pass right by in Greece? Where have you returned over and over again?
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We loved Santorini – we left our campervan in Athens and flew there for a week in December- even in winter it was beautiful.
We also visited Monemvasia on our road trip in the van around the Peloponnese – it was absolutely magical.
Would definitely recommend driving around the Peloponnes in a van – you can just park on the beaches and wake up to the most glorious views. Lifejourney4two.com
Driving around Europe in a camper van is something we have talked about doing. As you say, you can always pack it to hop on a ferry or plane for a trip. We would love to travel around the Greek Islands in a small boat or even by ferry. I am delighted to hear you liked Monemvasia as well. It was a great surprise for us. Linda
I’m devouring this post since I’m leaving for Greece in two weeks. I’m going to Crete and from there to some of the Cyclades. However, I’m skipping Mykonos – sadly – since it’s too far to go there by ferry. Also, it would be too stressful, I rather visit fewer islands and stay a bit longer. Obviously, I’m going to legendary Santorini. Let’s hope that in September, it won’t be as packed as during the very high season.
I hope you have an amazing trip to the Greek Islands. We really want to go back one day and more around by ferry. Will be watching for all the coming posts.
Argh! There are so many beautiful places to visit in Europe! Your post reminded me that I have never been to the Greek Islands. Crete has been on my travel wish list for the last ten years or so. However it was the first time that I read anything about the island of Monemvasia. It looks like a fascinating place! Thanks for introducing it in your post!
We have the Greek Islands as a place to return to for some slow travel island to island by ferry. So many great islands.