Beyond the iconic white-washed buildings of Santorini and the buzzing nightlife of Mykonos lies a treasure trove of underrated Greek islands waiting to be discovered. These hidden gems offer authentic experiences without the crowds, allowing travelers to experience Greece’s timeless beauty in its purest form.
Folegandros: The romantic hideaway
Just a short ferry ride from Santorini, Folegandros captivates visitors with its dramatic cliffside views and enchanting Chora village. Unlike its famous neighbor, this Cycladic island remains blissfully uncrowded.
“Folegandros is what Santorini was 20 years ago – romantic, unspoiled, and incredibly beautiful,” shares Maria Nikolaou, a local taverna owner. “Our sunset views rival Santorini’s, but you won’t have to share them with thousands of others.”
Milos: A geological wonderland
With over 70 beaches scattered around its volcanic coastline, Milos offers a spectacular variety of landscapes that surprisingly fly under most tourists’ radar. The otherworldly white rock formations of Sarakiniko Beach and the labyrinthine sea caves of Kleftiko provide unforgettable settings for adventure seekers.
Similar to other mystical Greek islands with sacred waterfalls, Milos harbors its own ancient secrets and natural wonders worth exploring.
Amorgos: Where spirituality meets the sea
Made famous by Luc Besson’s film “The Big Blue,” Amorgos remains refreshingly authentic. The island’s crown jewel is the 11th-century Hozoviotissa monastery, dramatically built into a cliff face 300 meters above the Aegean Sea.
“Our island attracts souls seeking something deeper than beach parties,” explains Father Nikitas from the monastery. “People come for healing, hiking, and to reconnect with something ancient and profound.”
Ikaria: The island where people forget to die
Named after the mythological Icarus, this rugged island is famous for its long-lived residents, with an unusually high percentage of centenarians. Ikaria’s secret lies in its relaxed pace of life, healthy diet, and strong sense of community.
The island’s wild beaches, dense forests, and therapeutic hot springs make it perfect for nature lovers seeking rejuvenation away from typical tourist paths.
Astypalaia: The butterfly of the Aegean
Shaped like a butterfly, Astypalaia charms visitors with its windmills, whitewashed cubic houses, and medieval castle perched atop its capital. Despite its breathtaking beauty, this island remains wonderfully undiscovered.
Just as France has its hidden villages above spectacular canyons, Greece offers these elevated escapes with equally impressive vistas.
Tinos: A pilgrimage of art and faith
While religious Greeks know Tinos for its sacred Church of Panagia Evangelistria, few international travelers explore its stunning landscapes and 50 traditional villages. The island is renowned for its marble craftsmen, whose artistic traditions date back centuries.
“Tinos isn’t just a place of faith, but a living museum of Greek craftsmanship,” notes Yannis Batis, a local marble sculptor. “In every village, you’ll find art integrated into daily life.”
Planning your escape
For travelers considering these lesser-known paradises, timing is everything. July and August see the highest tourist numbers throughout Greece. Consider May, June, or September for pleasant weather without the crowds.
Island hopping enthusiasts can experience several of these gems by planning strategic ferry routes. Like remote island sanctuaries in other parts of the world, these Greek havens reward those willing to venture beyond the obvious.
Accommodations and practicalities
Unlike some destinations that can be visited on quick day trips, these islands deserve longer stays. Small family-run guesthouses often provide the most authentic experiences, though booking well in advance is essential during summer months.
For those considering an extended stay, some Greek islands now appear on lists of places offering incentives for remote workers to relocate, making these paradise islands not just vacation destinations but potential temporary homes.
These underrated Greek islands offer something increasingly rare in our hyper-connected world – genuine discovery. Here, ancient traditions thrive alongside natural beauty, creating experiences that feel both timeless and deeply personal. While the famous islands of Greece will always draw crowds, these hidden gems reward the curious traveler with memories that feel like secrets shared between friends.