- Gazing out at an ancient volcanic caldera-turned-harbor from the deck of a small taverna perched above Santorini’s sheer cliffs
- Having a drink by the sea amid the whitewashed houses and traditional windmills on trendy Mykonos
- Wandering among the ancient ruins on the small island of Delos, once considered sacred to the god Apollo
- Exploring the Turkish and Knights Templar-influenced architecture on the island of Rhodes
- Sampling the fragrant wines on the verdant island of Samos, just off the Turkish coast
- Discovering the charms of lesser-known Cycladic islands such as Folegandros, Milos or Amorgos
- Touring the large island of Crete, savoring the beauty, the sunshine, the history, and the beaches
- Hiking and dining on the gorgeous mountainous island of Naxos
- Retracing the literary footsteps of Lawrence Durrell on the lush Ionian island of Corfu
Best Things to Do in Greek Islands
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Things to do in Greek Islands - Expert's guide
The Greek Islands combine millennia of history with sunshine and blue waters like few other destinations in the world. Strewn across the Aegean and Ionian seas like glistening jewels – there are more than 6,000 in all, including small islets, with 227 inhabited -- Greece’s fabled islands are rich in cultural and natural treasures. Fortunately for the traveler, their variety is as great as their numbers – so pick an isle or two or three, and find a tour that matches your dreams.
1. Santorini
The famous island of Santorini will guarantee to take your breath away. With picturesque views of whitewashed cliffs overlooking the vast caldera, Santorini is a must-see location on your Greek Islands trip! Visit the popular cliff-top towns of Oia and Fira for the traditional, iconic view of Santorini’s blue top buildings. Choose from Stride’s 200 tours that visit the beautiful Santorini for a Greek Islands experience of a lifetime!
2. Acropolis of Athens
Although located on the mainland of Greece, Athens is the starting destination for several Greek Islands trips. Among many of Athen’s historical treasures is the Acropolis of Athens, the most prominent of the ancient city. On Stride you can choose from over 300 tours that visit this landmark including some of the most ancient buildings and destinations of Greece, most famous being the great Parthenon.
3. Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest island and is packed with wonder and adventure. When booking one of Stride’s near 200 trips that visit Crete, you can experience white, sandy beaches, mountainous hikes, Greek culture and shopping, and ancient archaeological sites.
Crete has a tour for every traveler. Some of the top locations to check out on your Greek Islands tour to Crete are Knossos Palace, Samariá Gorge National Park, and Elafonissi.
4. Rhodes
Visiting Rhodes will give you a taste of all that the Greek Islands have to offer. Here you can experience the resort, beach lifestyle, ancient history and magnificent architecture, and the prominent Greek culture and cuisine.
Stroll around the popular old town for an authentic Greek feel, visit the Acropolis of Rhodes, and brush up on your ancient Greek history. Choose one of 150 Stride tours to experience the largest of the Dodecanese Islands for an unforgettable Greek Islands adventure!
5. Mykonos
Get ready to live it up on the lively island of Mykonos! If you are looking for an exciting nightlife and party scene on your Greek Islands excursion, choose from Stride’s 150 Mykonos tour options. Y
ou will have the time of your life dancing the night away on Paradise Beach listening to the top DJs and artists. Don’t forget that Mykonos has gorgeous beaches, so take some time for some fun in the sun during your exhilarating Mykonos trip!
6. Corfu
Corfu is one of Greece’s most beautiful islands. With its mountainous terrain, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear blue waters, it is a perfect island getaway destination. Experience the unique blend of architectural design influenced by Italian, British, and French styles that you will find in Corfu. Check out all that this mythical island has to offer by taking one of Stride’s 50 plus tours that visit the magnificent Corfu.
7. Naxos
The Greek Island of Naxos is one rich in beauty, history, and culture. Popularly known for its striking stretches of beaches, it is also home to the ancient Apollo Temple overlooking the surrounding town and sea. If your perfect trip to the Greek Islands looks like a mix of experiencing history and relaxing in nature, book one of Strides 50 tours to Naxos today!
8. Paros
If you are interested in boating or partaking in water adventures on your Greek Islands trip, Paros is the spot for you. A popular boating and transportation hub, Paros has breathtaking harbors creating that authentic small-town Greek Island feel. Stroll around the traditional villages to see the iconic whitewashed Greek-style buildings, and bask in the sun on the bright beaches of Paros.
9. Kos
Although Kos is often best known for its ample beaches and tranquil summer ambiance, it is also home to a significant amount of phenomenal Greek history and ancient ruins. Among these structures are the prominent 15th-century Neratzia Castle and Ancient Agora ruins. Satisfy your beach bum and history buff needs by visiting Kos on one of Stride’s 27 offered tours.
10. Ios
This authentic Greek Island is located in the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea. Get a taste of the bright Greek Island culture with its traditional whitewashed buildings cascading over the cliffs and hills of the island. Experience traditional churches, windmills, and delicious Greek cuisine when you take one of Stride’s 40 tours to Ios!
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Nov 2018
Such a Wonderful Company
This is such a professional and caring company. They are a great example why it's best to deal with real people instead of internet searches. I booked a condo on T...
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Anonymous
Oct 2018
Greek Islands Unplugged
A chance to see the parts of Naxos, Santorini and Paros that maybe most don't see. The trip ran smoothly, expertly organised by Cecile, and the weather was beauti...
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Anonymous
Oct 2018
Walking in the Greek Islands
This was a trip that stimulated all the senses, from the wonderful colours of the wildflowers on the walks and the blues and whites of the pristine villages we pas...
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Anonymous
Oct 2018
Vigorous.
I rarely give ten out of ten, but this came close. The sun shone every day, I slepped well and didn't put on weight. The walks were just right, leisurely as it sai...
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Anonymous
Oct 2018
Greek Island Wanderer
A well balanced trip that gives a taste of 3 contrasting islands. Travelling in April proved to be an ideal opportunity to see a different side to Greece - quieter...
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