Top-Rated Greek Islands as Rated by Tourists
With over 200 inhabited Greek Islands, how do you choose which to visit? Well, we asked frequent travelers, and here are their suggestions.
1. Santorini – For Iconic Beauty and Romance
Why it's unique: With its dramatic cliffs, cave houses, blue-domed churches, and postcard sunsets, Santorini is one of the most photographed places on Earth. Formed by a volcanic eruption, its caldera views are breathtaking.
Why tourists love it: Americans rave about the luxury cave hotels in Oia, romantic dinners overlooking the sea, and stunning photo ops. It's especially popular for honeymoons, anniversary trips, and luxury travel.
Top highlights: Oia sunset, wine tasting in Pyrgos, black sand beaches, catamaran caldera cruises.
2. Crete – For Culture, Food, and Variety
Why it's unique: As Greece’s largest island, Crete offers something for every type of traveler—ancient ruins, mountain villages, exotic beaches, and bustling towns.
Why tourists love it: Americans appreciate the diversity of experiences. You can explore the Palace of Knossos one day and hike the Samaria Gorge or swim at Elafonissi Beach the next. Crete is also known for having some of the best food in Greece.
Top highlights: Chania’s Old Town, Elafonissi Beach, Rethymno, local tavernas serving slow-cooked lamb and Cretan wine.
3. Naxos – For Authenticity and Family-Friendly Charm
Why it's unique: Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and blends traditional Greek life with beautiful landscapes—less flashy, more down-to-earth.
Why tourists love it: Americans often describe Naxos as a perfect balance between beaches, history, and unspoiled village life. It feels less touristy than nearby Mykonos or Santorini, making it ideal for families and relaxed travelers.
Top highlights: Portara (Temple of Apollo), sandy beaches like Agios Prokopios, and quaint villages like Apeiranthos.
4. Paros – For Laid-Back Sophistication
Why it's unique: Paros is known for its charming white villages, excellent windsurfing beaches, and stylish yet relaxed vibe.
Why tourists love it: American visitors say Paros feels like “Mykonos without the price tag and party crowds.” The town of Naoussa offers boutique hotels and chic waterfront dining, while quieter beaches appeal to couples and solo travelers.
Top highlights: Naoussa harbor, Kolymbithres Beach, hiking trails, and day trips to nearby Antiparos.
5. Rhodes – For Medieval History and Sun
Why it's unique: Rhodes is a blend of ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Crusader history, with one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.
Why tourists love it: Americans often find Rhodes fascinating because it combines beautiful beaches with walkable history. It also has a longer tourist season due to its southern location.
Top highlights: The Old Town of Rhodes, Lindos Acropolis, and beach resorts along the east coast.
6. Corfu – For Green Scenery and British Ties
Why it's unique: Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is one of Greece’s greenest islands with Venetian architecture, olive groves, and an aristocratic flair.
Why tourists love it: American visitors often mention Corfu’s scenic beauty, walkable old town, and the fact that English is widely spoken due to its long British history.
Top highlights: Achilleion Palace, Corfu Town, Paleokastritsa beaches.
7. Milos – For Otherworldly Beaches and Quiet Charm
Why it's unique: Milos is a volcanic island with surreal beaches, colorful fishing villages, and lesser-known archaeological sites.
Why tourists love it: Americans seeking a more “off-the-beaten-path” experience fall in love with Milos. Beaches like Sarakiniko (white moon-like rock formations) are unlike anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
Top highlights: Kleftiko caves, Sarakiniko Beach, the catacombs of Milos, and waterfront dining in Klima.
Greek Islands That Received Lower Ratings from American Tourists
While most Greek Islands have something special to offer, not all resonate equally with American travelers. Here are three islands that received more mixed or lower ratings:
1. Mykonos – For Party Crowds and High Prices
Why tourists rate it lower: While famous for its nightlife, beach clubs, and chic hotels, some American tourists feel Mykonos is overpriced and overly commercial. It can feel crowded and chaotic during high season.
Criticisms: High cost of food, loud party scene not suited for families or couples seeking peace, and a lack of cultural or historical depth compared to other islands.
2. Ios – For Young Party-Goers Only
Why tourists rate it lower: Ios is known as a party island for young backpackers. While that appeals to a certain crowd, many Americans find it lacking in charm, culture, and diversity of activities.
Criticisms: Limited appeal for families or older travelers, very seasonal with many businesses closed outside summer, and basic accommodation options.
3. Syros – For Administrative Vibes Over Vacation Vibes
Why tourists rate it lower: Syros is the capital of the Cyclades and more of a working island than a tourist hub. While it has interesting architecture and local life, some American tourists find it less exciting or beachy than they expected.
Criticisms: Not as “Instagrammable,” fewer sandy beaches, and a slower pace that can feel dull to first-time visitors seeking iconic Greek island scenery.
4. Processing Centers – Lesbos, Samos, Chios, Kos, & Leros
Why tourists rate them lower: Lesbos is 18 miles from the Turkish coast making it a primary entry point for migrants. These migrants often number in the hundreds of thousands. The Moria Refugee camp on Lesbos is overcrowded with poor conditions. The others listed are also often overrun with migrants making holiday trips more difficult.
Criticisms: These destinations are for journalists, not vacationers. Given the multitude of other options, they are to be avoided.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're drawn to the cliffside glamour of Santorini, the rugged authenticity of Naxos, or the cultural depth of Crete, the Greek Islands have something for every type of American traveler. Understanding what each island offers (and what it doesn’t) can help make your Aegean adventure unforgettable.
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