It is time to leave behind the images of the highly popularized Greek islands you’ve come to admire over the years. Though Mykonos and Santorini have their charm, they also have a large number of tourists flocking in daily, which can sometimes ruin the tourist experience. If you simply want to experience the gorgeous beaches, island atmosphere and Greek food, you might want to instead consider traveling to a few of the following underrated Greek islands.
Antiparos
Antiparos is known as Paros’ little cousin, and it is as little as ten minutes away from the island by ferry. Paros is often a popular alternative to Mykonos or Santorini, as it still presents the same type of vibe and beach access with fewer tourists. Consequently, Antiparos is an excellent alternative to Paros or an easy day trip option. The main town offers adorable shops, restaurants and those classic cobblestone streets you’ve come to know and love after years of scrolling through Pinterest for travel inspiration.
Ios
Ios is one of those destinations that offers a little bit of everything for everyone. Let’s break that down. Ios provides a great mix of partying options for the younger crowd, natural beauty for the backpackers of the world and beaches and villages for the laidback vacationers. On top of all this, Ios is one of the less-expensive islands, making it a viable option for those on a budget. Though some sailing trips tend to make stops on the island, it still remains an overall unexplored island.
Skopelos
Calling all Mamma Mia fans! Skopelos served as a filming location for this beloved movie that has played a crucial role in Greece’s tourism over the past decade. This underrated island offers so much of the Greek charm that tourists have come to fantasize about, such as charming villages, a gorgeous waterfront scene and friendly locals wanting to share their home with visitors. While this island is still underrated among foreigners, you’ll come to find that it is a favorite destination among Greek natives.
Skiathos
As one of the neighboring islands to Skopelos, Skiathos is a modern-day paradise, especially for those who can never get enough of the beach. This island is known for having over 60 beaches, all of which present the prettiest turquoise waters. Not only does it offer numerous options for having a relaxing day, but Skiathos also has a thriving nightlife scene. Contrary to “cabin fever,” visitors will never get island fever here, as there is so much to explore on the tiny island.