Read
Vol 26 Now
Where To Stay
View All Issues
Life & Arts
Food & Drink
Experiences
Inspiration
Middle East & Africa
Central & South America
Caribbean
Asia & Pacific
Europe
North America
Top Destinations
Destinations
Where To Stay
View All Issues
Life & Arts
Food & Drink
Experiences
Inspiration
Central & South America
Caribbean
Asia & Pacific
Europe
North America
Top Destinations
Destinations
More Inspiration
Corfu's verdant landscape is a perfect example of the lush greenery the Ionian Islands are known for. Image credit: ugurhan/iStock
Greece’s geography, a peninsula that juts down into the Mediterranean, divides the majority of its islands into distinct groups: the Ionian Islands on the west side of Greece, and the Cyclades to the southeast. Beyond these two primary groups and stretching even farther southeast from the mainland, the Dodecanese Islands hug the Turkish coastline in the Aegean Sea. Crete, the largest Greek island, sits alone in its own region in the southern part of the Aegean Sea.
ON TO the ISLANDS
Be sure to spend a few days in Athens before exploring the Greek Isles. Image credit: f11photo/Shutterstock
For most travelers, the journey begins when you fly into Athens. From there, several carriers fly to the most popular islands, including Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos, with many offering multiple flights daily that are relatively short — about an hour or less — and inexpensive. But for travelers who’ve come from afar, the idea of one more plane after thousands of miles traveled, often in multiple segments across a handful of time zones, might not be at the top of the list. For this reason, John recommends seizing the opportunity to explore the historic capital city, including must-see sites like the Acropolis, the Olympieion, and the Ancient Agora of Athens (be sure to book tickets in advance).
BUT FIRST, ATHENS
Explore four Greek Islands for uniquely different experiences
Few destinations evoke the same enraptured reaction that the mention of the Greek Isles does. The bleached buildings tucked into craggy cliffs overlooking a sparkling sea is a vision that dreams are made of.
Numbering more than 6,000 — roughly 200 of which are inhabited — Greek islands are far from all being the same, however. Because of the astounding number of options, I tapped the expertise of a good friend for insider advice: John Iosifidis, a Greek American who was raised in the U.S. but still has family in Greece and has traveled extensively throughout the country. “There’s an island for everybody,” says John. “You must make that your headline.” With so many choices, it’s up to you to decide exactly what kind of island experience you seek.
A view of surrounding Cyclades Islands from Santorini. Image credit: ChrisHepburn/iStock
March 2026
By Deanna Murphy
Get Away to the Greek Isles
Destination: Greece
Travelers
Best Rate Guarantee
About Us
Philanthropy
Careers
Global Directory
American Destinations
International Destinations
Destinations
Partners & Press
Preferred Meetings & Events
Press Center
Travel Partners
Travel Professionals
Become a Member Hotel
Become an Alliance Partner
PreferredNet
Offers
Discover Offers
I Prefer Gift Cards
* Actual rate may vary based on date, room type, and availability. Enter dates to determine more accurate rates for your search.
Copyright © 2026 Preferred Travel Group
SM
Download the App
#ThePreferredLife
Cookies & Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Modify a Reservation
1 (866) 990-9491
International Phone Lines
The Ionian Islands, fittingly found in the Ionian Sea, are fewer and more lush than their Cyclades counterparts. One bonus is that one of them — Lefkada — can be reached by car thanks to a small bridge. However, if you prefer to have a car to explore on the Ionian Islands, ferries allow you to take rental cars from multiple ports on the mainland to other destinations including Kefalonia, Corfu, and Zakynthos.
THE IONIAN ISLANDS
The Ionian Islands, fittingly found in the Ionian Sea, are fewer and more lush than their Cyclades counterparts. One bonus is that one of them — Lefkada — can be reached by car thanks to a small bridge. However, if you prefer to have a car to explore on the Ionian Islands, ferries allow you to take rental cars from multiple ports on the mainland to other destinations including Kefalonia, Corfu, and Zakynthos.
THE CYCLADES ISLANDS
The Cyclades Islands, found in the Aegean Sea, include some of the most popular and well-known of the Greek Isles, including Mykonos and Santorini. John recommends hopping on a ferry from Athens and setting a course for your island destination to truly absorb the region’s beauty from the water. Ferries depart from both of the major ports in Athens, Piraeus and Rafina, so there are plenty of options to get where you want to go, most of which will take a few hours. “It's more comfortable than being on a plane, that's for sure,” says John. Morning ferries arrive mid- to late-afternoon, depending on your destination, offering ample time remaining in the day, he says, to “check in, go to the beach, or go to a restaurant.”
THE CYCLADES ISLANDS
The Ionian Islands, fittingly found in the Ionian Sea, are fewer and more lush than their Cyclades counterparts. One bonus is that one of them — Lefkada — can be reached by car thanks to a small bridge. However, if you prefer to have a car to explore on the Ionian Islands, ferries allow you to take rental cars from multiple ports on the mainland to other destinations including Kefalonia, Corfu, and Zakynthos.
Due to previous Venetian rule, visitors will feel a historic Italian influence in culture and architecture. On Zakynthos (also known as Zante), a private guided tour will take you to some of the island’s iconic sites, including the Venetian Castle, the Byzantine Museum, and more. The island is also perfect for outdoor adventure — hiking, cycling, and horseback riding offer ideal ways to take in the abundantly diverse scenery, from forests to beaches. Stay at Lesante Classic, where the hotel will arrange for unforgettable experiences on the island. If being on the water is more your style, the hotel offers private yachting excursions around Zakynthos and beyond with multiple itineraries that explore the island’s coasts as well as neighboring Kefalonia and Ithaca — the legendary home of Odysseus.
THE IONIAN ISLANDS
Sophisticated Mykonos is the chic party island of the Cyclades, with luxury hotels that dot its perimeter. The liveliest areas are concentrated around Mykonos Town’s “Little Venice” on the western coast, and the southern beach of Paradise. A beloved destination for vacationing celebrities, Mykonos dazzles with stunning views of the Aegean and whitewashed architecture on rocky bluffs that sits in stark contrast to the impossibly azure waters.
While simply lounging around a crystalline pool or soaking up sun from one of the island’s beaches is a luxurious way to spend a day on Mykonos, there’s plenty more to do. Guests at Kivotos Mykonos can arrange with the hotel for private tours of the island’s most intriguing sights or take part in tours such as a wine and cultural walking tour, which stops at museums and the island’s famous windmills. Boat tours to nearby islands that visit historically significant sites and deserted beaches depart weekly or can be arranged, as well as helicopter tours, to gain perspective of the island’s beauty from above.
Mykonos
Due south of Mykonos, you’ll find the diminutive crescent island of Santorini. This romantic destination is renowned for its iconic blue-domed churches and brilliant bougainvillea that strikes vivid contrast against whitewashed walls, red- and black-sand beaches, and yes, more of the breathtaking Aegean.
Oia, perched on the north end of the island, is renowned for delivering on the promise of these iconic, postcard-worthy views, with glowing sunsets and a sweeping perspective of the volcanic island’s caldera, half of which sank into the ocean after a massive eruption thousands of years ago. A boat tour of the caldera offers an unrivaled view, however, and is the Santorini visitor’s must-see item on any itinerary.
Santorini
The largest of the Greek Islands, Crete has a rich history that spans ancient civilizations and empires, and is the mythical birthplace of Zeus. It’s also one of the farthest islands from mainland Greece, so this is one that you’ll likely want to fly to if you’re coming from Athens, as the ferry will set you back almost seven hours of additional travel time; a flight will have you there in about an hour. There’s so much to explore, from ancient palaces to Roman ruins and charming villages. There’s plenty of natural beauty to take in as well, of course, from the pink sand of Elafonisi Beach to a UNESCO-listed geopark.
Found in centrally located Rethymno, Oros Luxury Beach Resort puts the allure of Crete at your fingertips. A vast beach and sparkling pool are perfect for family stays, while an adults-only pool, spa, and exquisite culinary program make it an equally enticing destination for an indulgent couples getaway.
Crete
Unsurprisingly, summer is the ideal — and most popular — time to visit the Greek Islands. And while the heat of the season can present its challenges for tourists on the mainland, the islands are the perfect place to soak up the sun. Flights may also be more abundant in this high season from June through August. However, John says that you’ll still experience comfortable weather in the months just outside the summer high season, during May in the spring and September and October in late summer and early fall. If you’re not there for the nightlife, you may find a more authentic, local experience without throngs of tourists, but there is seasonality in some of the islands’ most popular towns. Be sure to check in advance because many restaurants and shops will shutter during low season.
WHEN TO GO
Whether seeking a lush, verdant island that will immerse you in nature, a luxurious destination bursting with nightlife and sophistication, an Instagram-worthy destination that’s striking at every turn, or a history-dense island that has its equal share of natural beauty, John was right: There truly is a Greek Island for every traveler.
AN ISLAND FOR EVERYONE
In contrast to the Ionian Islands, the Cyclades Islands, including Mykonos, have a more rugged, rocky landscape. Image credit: Myconian Villa Collection
Nearby on Ornos Beach, the award-winning Mykonos Blanc sits right on the sand with the crystal water of the Aegean just beyond, and with easy access to Mykonos Town and its renowned nightlife. The Blanc Concierge Dream Team concierge service offers expertise on everything from the island’s gastronomy to its club scene, must-see sights, activities, and more, creating personalized, curated experiences tailored to every guest.
For a more serene experience, guests staying at Myconian Villa Collection enjoy access to Elia Beach, a quiet alternative to the busier areas of the island that are still just a short drive away. Guests here enjoy the pinnacle of white glove service, with a luxury fleet of Mercedes limo buses for chauffeured transportation around the island, private helicopter and jet services, and yacht charters to explore the island and beyond.
For an adults-only escape, book Myconian Naia. Perched on a hilltop overlooking Mykonos Town, the hotel is an intimate hideaway with 18 suites boasting unparalleled sea views. A world-class spa deepens the experience of this sanctuary-like stay, and the gastronomy, drawing from Japanese, Greek, and Mediterranean influences, is second to none.
Relax at Kivotos Mykonos' waterfront pool in between sightseeing. Image credit: Kivotos Mykonos
Myconian Villa Collection offers access to a delightfully tranquil beach, away from crowds. Image credit: Myconian Villa Collection
Embark on a boat cruise courtesy of Mykonos Blanc. Image credit: Mykonos Blanc
Stay at the hilltop Andronis Arcadia, a serene resort near town but far enough away to remain a peaceful respite, or even closer to the cliff’s edge at Andronis Luxury Suites. Both luxurious resorts boast suites and villas with pools or hot tubs, and abundant dining experiences invite guests to savor the flavors of Santorini, from intimate sommelier-led tastings of Santorini-produced wines with Greek food pairings to chef’s table tasting experiences and even cooking and mixology classes. The Andronis Feretti, the resorts’ luxury yacht, offers a unique opportunity to cruise around the island in the ultra-exclusive care of a captain and dedicated crew.
In yet another contrast, Kivotos Santorini stands out on the edge of the caldera in Imerovigli, with all-black architecture amid the sea of white. The hotel’s central location near the island’s largest city of Fira makes it a perfect base to explore, whether hiking along the caldera, visiting museums, or taking in the sunset with a cocktail at a local restaurant — or while soaking away the day in the private plunge pool or hot tub of your suite or villa.
Santorini at sunset is nothing short of magical. Image credit: neirfy/iStock
Enjoy cliffside dining and panoramic views at Andronis Luxury Suites. Image credit: Andronis Luxury Suites
Soak in your private hot tub while marveling at Santorini's famous white architecture at Kivotos Santorini. Image credit: Kivotos Santorini
Whether you choose pool or beach, Oros Luxury Beach Resort guarantees luxury and relaxation. Image credit: Oros Luxury Beach Resort
Wander along the Venetian Harbor in Rethymno, Crete. Image credit: Sakis Papadopoulos/Shutterstock
Read More
Explore Greece’s varied landscapes, from the rugged mainland to its idyllic islands
Life in Full Color
Destinations
Among Sparkling Waters
Unwind on the enchanting islands of Sicily, Sardegna, Capri, and Ischia
Destinaton: Italy
Read More
Read More
Mallorca
Relax in pretty Palma de
Mallorca
LITTLE BLACK BOOK
Travel Like a Local
Get to know your destination by experiencing it as if you live there
Destinations
Read More
