Top 5 Least Crowded Greek Islands for Peace and Quiet
My husband and I traveled through the Greek islands for 10 days in the month of July. While we did see crowds when we stayed in Santorini’s Oia, the rest of the trip we went island hopping and hardly saw any other people. We would swim and float for hours in crystal blue waters during the daytime. And then wind down for the day with long outdoor sunset dinners with ocean views.
In this comprehensive guide we give our top 5 Greek islands for a relaxing summer vacation away from the crowds of seasonal tourists. On each island we breakdown the best things to do, where to go swimming and top hotel accommodations. We also provide you with detailed instructions on how to get to these remote islands from the mainland or larger hub islands.
Why Tourists Love Greek Islands for Summer Vacation
It's no secret that the Greek islands are adored by tourists worldwide. Quiet and quaint, superb nightlife, secluded sandy beaches, and the magic of ancient civilizations make Greek island vacations the most versatile choice for a relaxing break from the daily routine.
Plus, the beauty of their architecture, the unique cuisine on offer, and the warmth of the Mediterranean climate are impossible to pass on. Because who doesn't want to soak up some sun rays while looking out into the Aegean sea?
Most Popular and Crowded Greek Islands to Avoid
During summer, Greece's peak tourist season, the population explodes and most of the top tourist island destinations become hellishly busy. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy an island experience that feels more like your own private paradise than a party scene, I would suggest staying away from these tourist traps (at least during the most popular summer months from June to September).
Although these islands boast incredible scenic landscapes, fantastic nightlife, and picturesque beaches that would leave any visitor in awe, the clutter and noise due to the influx of visitors during the summer months can be overwhelming. And it's not only the tourists. These islands often overflow with locals from the mainland and students looking to get away from it all during their summer vacation.
Note for First Time Greece Travelers: Many of the Greek islands have both multiple names and multiple ways of spelling the names. Make sure to double check that you know for sure where you are going before you make any non-refundable reservations.
Greek Islands to Avoid in the Summer:
Paros
Mykonos
Corfu
Ios
Santorini
Pro Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds and still experience these islands' unique and authentic side, I recommend visiting during the fall. Mykonos is also a fantastic winter destination for travelers that appreciate a bit of isolation and seclusion.
Top 5 Least Crowded Greek Islands for Peace and Quiet
If you're looking for a quiet vacation where you can really unwind and have a bit of quiet relaxation, you have to think outside the box. While more popular destinations are great for certain occasions, I find that the beauty and magic of Greek islands are found away from the crowds. In places where you can lay on the beach and hear only the waves and the cicadas chirping away, or have your breakfast and read your book uninterrupted by the hustle and bustle.
Kythira
In Kythira you'll find rugged gorges, quiet beaches, and plenty of folktales from passionate locals eager to share stories of their island. Legend has it that Aphrodite, the Greek celestial goddess of love and beauty, was born on the island, arising out of the foam of the sea - and it's evident that she's left her mark here.
It's best to have your vehicle to explore Kythira at your own pace and get around to the villages since the bus schedule is not that accommodating.
Pro Tip: It's best to park outside the little villages around the island and explore on foot to get the most authentic experience.
Highlights of Things to See in the Villages of Kythira:
The best beach for swimming on the island Kythira is Kapsali Beach which is included in this tour.
Kaleris is a popular restaurant on Kythira.
An excellent day trip from Kythira is Elafonissi Beach which has pink sand and bright and cystal clear waters.
Another excellent day trip from Kythira is the Cave of Agia Sophia.
Highly-Rated Hotels to Book Your Stay in Kythira:
Chios
While Chios is the fifth-largest island in Greece, it only seems to attract many tourists in one area - the majestic Mastic field villages. Chios is the only place in the world that produces 'Mastiha' due to the volcanic soil and climate of the island. Mastiha is made from the Mastic tree resins and has a unique aroma used in many products such as gum, soap, and the most popular must-try Greek aperitif, Ouzo.
The island is also rich in history, with archaeological sites dating back to prehistoric times. It is also quite mountainous and you’ll find many villages without a trace of tourism, as well as your pick of secluded beaches and quiet corners.
Highlights of Things to See in the Villages of Chios:
Pyrgi Village - This picturesque medieval village is known as the “painted village” because of all the ornate tile motifs.
Best Beaches for Swimming on the island of Chios:
Highly-Rated Hotels to Book Your Stay in Chios:
Karpathos
While often overlooked by visitors rushing to get to the more famous islands of the Dodecanese, like Crete and Rhodes, Karpathos is a paradise for those looking for a bit of quiet on their vacation. From hiking through lush green forests and scaling its rocky peaks, to exploring ancient ruins and swimming in the clear waters off the coast, there's no shortage of things to do here.
Highlights of Things to See in the Villages of Karpathos:
Hiking tour up to Lastos, which is near the highest mountain of Karpathos.
Pastel house of Menetes.
The best beach for swimming on the island of Karpathos is Kira Panagia.
Highly-Rated Hotels to Book Your Stay in Karpathos:
Sifnos
As with the rest of the Cycladic islands, Sifnos features white-washed houses and the allure of the Cycladic architecture that will charm any first-time visitor and inspire anyone lounging through its streets. The island has a laid-back vibe, is known for its relaxing atmosphere, and has plenty of quiet beaches to explore.
Highlights of Things to See in the Villages of Sifnos:
Best Beaches for Swimming on the island of Sifnos:
Where to Eat in Sifnos:
Sifnos is known for its rich culinary tradition that has impacted the whole of Greece.
Highly-Rated Hotels to Book Your Stay in Sifnos:
Hydra
Hydra is the epitome of peace and quiet. There are no cars or vehicles allowed on the island, so it's easy to get away from it all. There are horses, donkeys, boat taxis and bikes available, for your transportation, otherwise you may explore on foot.
The island is located a mere 2-3 hours away from the main port of Athens, so you can easily add it to your travel plans and enjoy the beautiful scenery, fresh air, and pebbled beaches the island has to offer.
Highlights of Things to See in the Villages of Hydra:
Admire local architecture.
Horseback and Donkey riding.
If you are staying in Athens, Hydra is a very popular day trip destination and you can book a daytime boat tour from Athens here.
Best Beaches for Swimming on the island of Hydra:
Highly-Rated Hotels to Book Your Stay in Hydra:
Helpful Tips and Logistics of How to Get to the Islands
Taking a Ferry to the Greek Islands
The best and easiest way to travel from Athens or any part of Greece's mainland to the islands, is by boarding a ferry. And while flights may be more convenient in most cases, the method you choose to travel with will vary depending on your travel style, how much luggage you carry, how long of a trip you want to make, and if you'll be renting a vehicle on the island.
Some of the best island views can be found riding on the ferry between islands. This is the most common mode of transportation between islands and is used by both locals and visitors alike. On the ferries you can sit out on the deck and enjoy incredible ocean views while you travel to your destination.
Flying Directly To the Greek Islands
For our trip to the Greek islands, we completely bypassed the mainland of Greece and flew from London into Santorini. Of all the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, there’s only two international airports with direct flights into the islands - Santorini and Mykonos. From there you can take a ferry into the less populated islands.
Helicopter Transportation to the Greek Islands of Sifnos & Hydra
If you’re really looking to have an adventure during your trip to the Greek islands, you can book a helicopter to transport you to and from the island of Sifnos.
See your helicopter route options below:
Renting a Car on the Greek Islands
Taking a rental vehicle on the ferry is not allowed, so if you are considering renting a car, you will have to plan for separate rentals on each island.
The logistics can be very tricky so prepare to do some real itinerary planning if you want to have the smoothest experience and not spend hours traveling back and forth.
Pro Tips for Traveling in the Greek Islands
I've found the best way is to figure out which islands you want to visit first and then jump on Google Maps to figure out if there is a way to group your favorites. There are six main island groups in Greece, so it would be best to combine destinations within them for easier and faster travel.
Once you've decided on your destinations, it's time to book your tickets! While this can be done both online or at the kiosk near the local ports, it's best to have everything planned out to get the best prices and ensure that tickets won't get sold out last minute.
There are many ferry companies, and each one offers different travel times, and schedules, so make sure to find what suits you best and adjust your plan accordingly. For some islands, day trips may even be an option.
Daily Vacation Itinerary on a Quiet Greek Island
Make your vacation simple and easy as a Greek summer. On the islands the days are spent floating in the Mediterranean Sea and the nights are full of indulgent long meals that last long into the night.
On the Greek islands there's a very slow pace common referred to as "Greek time". Visitors have developed a routine to fill their days in the most relaxing way possible.
Your typical day on the Greek islands looks something like this:
Rise and Shine at 10am
Wake up late and enjoy some coffee and breakfast with fresh fruit on your gorgeous terrace. Every place we stayed had a lovely outdoor space filled with flowers and sunshine. Read a book or dabble in an adult coloring book while the sun heats up the day.
*Note: Be aware that internet wifi signals are very weak on the Greek islands. Don’t expect to be able to stream or browse the web very much. Make sure to pack screen-free entertainment.
Midday Lunch & Swimming in the Ocean
Between the hours of 12noon - 3pm enjoy a light lunch and head to the ocean for your daily dip. The Mediterranean water is so clear and warm that you can just walk right in. The high density of salt makes floating very easy, you don't even need an inter tube. Restaurants serve food right on the beach so you don't have to go far for lunch.
Enjoy a 4pm Nap Time
The Greek sun is intense and many retreat indoors to their air conditioners and sleep away the midday heat with a satisfying nap. Energy levels must be renewed for the nighty festivities that lay ahead.
Warm Summer Nights on the Greek Islands
Starting at 7pm, the warm evenings on the islands set the scene for all kinds of night fun. Restaurants are bustling with visitors enjoying long evenings filled with extravagant meals. As you walk along the main strips you can hear live music, singing and fireworks most nights.
The Animals We Saw on the Greek Islands
Every day in our walks along the beaches and villages we made many furry friends. The street dogs and cats are just as friendly as the Greek people. These street animals seemed to be well cared for by the communities which was great to see.
Every night at dinner we had a few friendly visitors who quickly realized that we are suckers for begging puppy eyes. We came across a few puppies and kittens that I desperately wanted to stow away in my bag back to the US. We found dogs playing in the waves on the beach without a care in the world. They are living the good life!
Donkeys and horses are also very common on the Greek islands, we came across several donkey farms on our daytime outings.
See More Guides to Greece on the Blog:
Check Out These Stellar Greek Island Hotels:
Located on the island of Karpathos, the Arkasa Palace Hotel is just an 8 minute walk from the beach. The hotel has a stunning outdoor pool, modern interior design and car rental nearby.
If you’re flying internationally into Santorini, I suggest you take a day or two to explore Oia. You can book the Oia Spirit Hotel which is located right next to the famous Blue Domes. This hotel is right in the center of all the best sightseeing so no additional travel is required.
It’s rare to find an ultra modern boutique hotel on the Greek islands but Elements delivers all the fanciness in Sifnos. Located in Faros, this hotel is just an 8 minute walk from the beach and has an incredible sun deck and pool.
Shop for Summer Vacation Essentials:
Let your Greek vacation surroundings influence your summer style and invest in a pair of real leather strappy sandals. This trendy wardrobe staple comes back year after year so you’ll be wearing them every warm weather season.
Open-weave totes made of raffia are all the rage for summer trips. They’re lightweight and have those beachy vibes. Throw in all your summer essentials and head to the beach!
The Greek summer sun very intense and you’ll require a pair of sunglasses to refrain from squinting your way through the day. Not to mention the fashion statement that an iconic pair of sunglasses brings to your vacation look.
