My Top Three Greek Islands (so far)

This post is dedicated to my top three Greek islands (so far).  

My Top Three Greek Islands

As a travel writer, one of my favorite places in the world to write about is…  you guessed it… the Greek islands.

It’s always a thrill for me to visit the Greek islands because there is always something new to discover. Each one has its own charms when it comes to its history, gastronomy, culture and topography.

Here are my top three Greek islands ever. Well, so far… 😉

Ithaca

Passion for Greece recently published a great post on the top Greek destinations according to 11 bloggers.  I was included in the little survey and the first island that popped into my mind was Ithaca.  Here’s one post about why I love Ithaca.

This Ionian island embodies all the charms I’ve come to love in the Greek islands.  There are tavernas by the sea, fresh air and nice locals. I love the small beaches tucked in between lush tree covered hills.  It is definitely one of the least touristic islands I have visited in Greece.

 

Naxos

During my Cycladics tour writing for Fodor’s last year, I scheduled stay in Naxos. I didn’t expect to fall in love with it. That’s because I’ve come to prefer the atmosphere of little islands like Ithaca.

Naxos is a large island which to me means you need to drive at least 20-30 minutes to get from one place to another. However, Naxos had me by the end of day one.  The island’s old town is one of the best I have ever had the pleasure of exploring. It is very well preserved and full of historic monuments and archaeological sites to explore.

The Naxians are fiercely proud of their great local organic products and incorporate them in their cuisine. The people are so warm and friendly, too.

The Portara is the main site to see. You can’t miss it when your ferry pulls into harbor.  It’s a colossal, 2,500 year old marble doorway on an islet in the sea. It’s just amazing to be there at sunset.

Naxos has so many beautiful villages like Chalki.  Then, there are so many beaches. There’s an amazing energy that really “matched” with me. I get that energetic vibe there and other friends who love Naxos too, say the same. They say it’s something ancient and mystical … hmm….

3. Santorini

Santorini is one of the most visited islands in Greece, but I have to say there is a reason for that. There’s no place in the world like it.

A volcanic eruption formed its crescent shape over 3,600 years ago. Up on the island’s steep cliffs is a stunning whitewashed village that cascades gently down the natural slopes of the landscape. The views are fantastic.  The view to the the submerged caldera is truly stunning.

There are archaeological sites like Akrotiri which is known as the Greek Pompeii.  It has great accommodation (stay in a traditional cave house)  and scenic restaurants.  There are award-winning local Greek wines to try. Santorini’s one “downfall” may be its beaches which aren’t the sandy idyllic versions I prefer, but it has some colorful beaches that are very unique such as the Red Beach.

If you have never been to the Greek islands, Santorini is the first place to visit.  Even if you have visited Santorini and want to return — I’d totally understand why.

That concludes my current list of my top three Greek islands. I also frequent Serifos a lot, but I feel like a sort of local. So, it is a given I love that island.  In any case, these top three Greek islands are the top choices that I have visited as a “tourist.”

Do you have a favorite Greek island and why?