The 11 Most Underrated Greek Islands to Visit in 2024
Greece is one of Europe’s most beloved holiday destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. It’s a country that I keep coming back to, as I love exploring both the popular islands, such as Mykonos and Santorini, as well as the underrated Greek islands, such as Symi and Amorgos.
What most don’t know is that country consists of 6,000 islands and islets. Almost 300 of these islands are inhabited, so imagine how many hidden gems and undiscovered treasures are waiting for you there!
So, I wanted to highlight 11 underrated Greek islands that are worth the visit in 2024. We’ll cover how to get to the island, as well as the top things to do, so you can decide where to visit based on your travel style, itinerary, and interests!
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Why choose the less popular islands?
You have likely seen the stunning photographs of Crete and Santorini. Maybe you have dreamt of a romantic getaway on Corfu. But by venturing off the beaten path and choosing the lesser-known islands, you can experience a more authentic side of Greece.
Don’t get me wrong though, I loved my recent trip to Santorini. There’s a reason the popular islands are popular! But there’s something really special about these secluded, underrated Greek islands.
Picture yourself on a virtually untouched beach or wandering around tiny villages that are home to locals who desire to keep their island true to its heritage. Wouldn’t that be nice?
Such a trip could create really unforgettable memories and allow you to fully immerse yourself in authentic Greek culture, so why not give one of the less popular islands a chance?
11 Most Underrated Islands in Greece
1. Symi
Symi (also known as Simi and Syme) is a small island in the Aegean Sea. The main town of Ano Symi has thirteen major churches and dozens of buildings dating back to the Byzantine era, and is a real treat to explore.
Getting to Symi
It is not difficult to get to Symi from Athens, as there is a ferry connection there, but the trip takes around 20 hours! It is better to travel to the island of Rhodes (a one-hour flight from Athens) first, then travel to Symi by a local ferry.
Things to do on Symi
The Town Hall and the Naval Museum are two places you should include in your visit to Symi. The Town Hall is a neoclassical building that showcases the island’s history and culture, while the Naval Museum will give you an understanding of the island’s maritime heritage and its significance in the Aegean region.
Next to them stands the cathedral of Timios Prodromos, built almost 200 years ago, that is stunningly beautiful.
When you’re on Symi, don’t forget to try the local Greek food, such as chickpeas with dill, fishballs, and various goat cheeses. You can also buy some of the best Greek ouzo there!
2. Astypalaia
Astypalaia is a small Greek island in the Dodecanese that is one of the most secluded islands on this list. Known for its outstanding cliffs and pristine beaches, its no wonder that the locals want to keep their island under the wraps!
Getting to Astypalaia
Astypalaia has its own airport, with a flight from Athens taking approximately 2.5 hours. If you prefer to take a ferry, the trip will take you around 15 hours one way.
Things to do on Astypalaia
Astypalaia is a rocky island that offers great hiking opportunities for both experienced and novice hikers.
As for cultural attractions, visit Astypalaia Castle, a hilltop castle surrounded by classic white washed Greek houses and buildings. Or explore the Tarara Baths, which are showcase blue and tile mosaics of the Hellenistic period!
While on Astypalaia, you must check out one of their beaches! Visit Kaminakia Beach, which is one of the most popular white-sand beaches, or Schoinóntas, which offers sun beds and restaurants alongside the beach front.
3. Milos
Milos is a volcanic island in the Cyclades, is not only and underrated island, but is also one of the best Greek islands for solo female travel! With a stunning coastline made famous from instagram, Milos is becoming a more popular destinations for travelers wanting the amenities of other islands in the Cyclades, with less crowds.
Getting to Milos
To get to Milos, you need to either catch a ferry from Athens or some nearby island or take a short flight from the capital. You can also book a helicopter transport if you feel like splurging!
Things to do on Milos
Milos has some incredible, remote sights that are only accessible by boat. You would be missing out if you didn’t explore these by boat tour!
📍Recommended tour: Half-Day Speedboat Cruise to Kleftiko with snorkeling tour
There are plenty of beautiful beaches to relax on, as well as opportunities for water activities like snorkeling and diving. Sarakiniko Beach is the most popular one, famous for its white rock formations and numerous caves that make you feel as though you have transported to another planet or the moon!
Travel tip: Arrive at Sarakiniko Beach on the early side (around 7 or 8 am) to be able to enjoy the beauty without many other tourists.
4. Amorgos
The easternmost island of the Cyclades, Amorgos, is considerably less crowded than other islands in the archipelago. It may be because it is only accessible by the sea and maintains a more secluded atmosphere. Most of the islands’ beaches are rather small and untouched, only a few of them belonging to resort areas.
Getting to Amorgos
A ferry from Athens to Amorgos takes approximately 5.5 hours. Alternatively, you could visit Amorgos on a tour of the Cyclades, in which you could take a shorter ferry from your previous destination.
Things to do on Amorgos
One of the best things to do on Amorgos is the monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, which is perched high on a rocky wall. Be sure to check out the balcony on the top floor that offers some of the best views of the Aegean! It is a solid hike up to reach the monastery, so bring your trekking boots!
The island is also home to a well-known and highly praised restaurant called Apospero. Serving various seafood delicacies, the restaurant is a foodie paradise. If you’re looking for traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist, that’s the spot!
5. Serifos
Serifos is a beautiful Greek island to stay at if you dream of a peaceful beach getaway. It is a popular destination among the locals, but few international tourists visit, so you will get to enjoy the island’s serene spots without the crowds.
Getting to Serifos
Serifos is one of the closest islands in the Cyclades to Athens, taking only 2 hours by ferry!
Things to do on Serifos
Serifos has a unique wine culture of its own, and many of its wineries and vineyards offer tours and tasting experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the local wines while here!
If you are there around mid-August, visit the Chapel of Panagia Skopiani, where Serifos’ biggest festival is held each year. The chapel is also beautiful to see other times of the year too!
Vagia Beach is a secluded spot with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, while Psili Ammos is a beach not far from the town of Livadi, with several taverns serving traditional Greek food nearby!
You can also explore the old mines in Mega Livadi that date back to the 6th century BC! This amazing landmark is a testament to Serifos’ rich (and very long!) history.
6. Leros
Part of the Dodecanese island group, Leros is a quaint, small island that has something for everyone to enjoy. From its sand and pebble beaches to its natural harbors, Leros is a picturesque escape for nature lovers and those wanting solitude.
Getting to Leros
Leros can be reached by plane (a flight from Athens takes less than an hour) or by ferry. While the ferry leaves only a few times a week and needs a whole day to reach the island, it offers a scenic journey and the destination is well-worth it!
Things to do on Leros
Leros has a large number of historical sites, including Byzantine churches and several ancient ruins. The main attraction is the thousand-year-old castle on Apityki Hill, where you can still see 15th-century frescoes on the walls and ceilings.
The island is also home to many traditional windmills – beautiful rustic structures, many of which have been turned into guest accommodations!
You can also take a stroll to see the Church of Agios Isidoros, a humble white chapel connected with the rest of the island by a narrow strip of land.
7. Folegandros
Folegandros is a hidden gem in the Cyclades, tiny and mostly unspoiled by mass tourism. Inhabited by barely 700 people, it only has three small villages and very little development. The island has many small, quiet beaches and some truly marvelous spots for scenic walks and hikes.
Getting to Folegandros
A direct ferry is available from Athens, taking anywhere from 3 hours to up to 9 hours if multiple stops along the way are included.
Things to do on Folegandros
Chora, the main village of Folegandros, located at the edge of a high cliff, hosts many traditional taverns. The hilltop church of Panagia Pantanassa offers panoramic views of the island and the blue waters around it, perfect for those postcard-like pictures to send to your friends and family!
Katergo Beach is one of the best to visit on the island, with both sandy and pebbly parts.
8. Sifnos
Sifnos is another spot that is less crowded in the summer months, making it a great destination for those seeking a peaceful and authentic island experience.
Getting to Sifnos
There is no airport nearby, and the only way to get there is by ferry from Athens or other islands of the Cyclades. On average, the ferry takes around 3 hours.
Things to do on Sifnos
Sifnos’ natural beauty make the outdoor activities one of the best things to do here. Hike one of the beautiful trails, that take you from beach to beach through the stunning landscape.
The island’s capital, Apollonia, is another place to visit. Wander around the narrow streets, and pop into local jewelry shops, or find a place playing live music! In addition, is a particularly attractive location for foodies! You can try unique foods like dandelion-and-feta pies and xinomizithra cheese there, as well as enjoy some tsipouro (grape brandy) or a glass of local wine. Everywhere on the island, you can find charming tavernas serving local dishes, making it perfect for culinary explorations.
9. Schoinoussa
Schoinoussa is a bit different from the rest of the Cyclades islands, as it is quite remote and much smaller than its neighboring islands. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm, though! It’s less touristy than other Greek islands, so it’s a perfect spot for those looking for some tranquility.
Getting to Schoinoussa
Schoinoussa is easily accessible by ferry from Athens, as well as from other islands around. The ferry takes around 6-8 hours from Athens.
Things to do on Schoinoussa
While in Schoinoussa, be sure to visit the blue-roofed Church of Panagia Akathi, a perfect example of traditional Cycladic architecture. Schoinoussa is also known for its beautiful beaches, like Gerolimnionas Beach, where you can sunbathe and swim hidden behind the rocky hillside.
10. Poros
Poros is one of the most beautiful islands near Athens that is worth visiting! Thanks to its proximity to Athens, it is a favorite for locals among weekend getaways in Greece.
Getting to Poros
As a small island in the middle of the Saronic Gulf, Poros can be reached by ferry from Athens, depending on the type of ship you choose.
Things to do on Poros
The main town, sharing its name with the island, contains plenty of restaurants and bistros with a wide range of dishes. It also has an open-air theatre where you can enjoy a movie under the midnight sky. You can visit the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon and a beautiful lemon forest nearby, too!
Most beaches on the island are organized and have facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas for visitors to enjoy a comfortable day at the beach. Some popular beaches include Askeli Beach, Megalo Neorio Beach, and the so-called Love Bay (but this one tends to get crowded, as it is quite small).
If you’re looking for something more secluded, Vayionia might be the place for you—the only way to reach it is by private transport, though!
11. Meganisi
The last underrated Greek island on my list is more of a day trip spot than a full vacation destination! Meganisi is a small island located just off the mainland, still untouched by mass tourism.
Its beauty lies in its unspoiled nature, full of greenery and crystal-clear waters. But be warned, there is no public transport on the island, so Meganisi is best for those who like to explore on foot or can drive a motorbike.
Getting to Meganisi
Unfortunately, tere is no ferry to Meganisi from Athens. The ferry to Meganisi departs only from the port of Nydri in Lefkada island, but is a very short trip!
Things to do on Meganisi
Meganisi is a beach lovers paradise. Although Limonari Beach is beautiful and often almost always empty, it is a pebble beach, so lying on a towel or blanket there might not be the most comfortable. It is definitely worth visiting, though, as the feeling of seclusion and tranquility it offers is unmatched.
Agios Ioannis Beach is another popular beach, which offers crystal-clear turquoise water which is perfect for swimming in!
Other Recommendations for Greek Islands
It’s hard to find a forgettable island in Greece that is not worth visiting. Most of the time, its just choosing one based on the activities you wish to do, the amount of privacy you want/ crowds you can endure, and the amount of time you will have to get to the island.
If you are starting and ending your trip in Athens, why not check out one of the beautiful islands near Athens to cut down on travel time! One of my favorite islands in all of Greece, Spetses, is one of such islands. Spetses is absolutely worth visiting, and is a car-free island, adding to its allure. I highly recommend you check it out!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Which Greek islands should I visit?
In all fairness, I should answer: all of them. No one island is better than the others as each of them has its own unique charm and will fit different preferences. There are places perfect for adventure seekers, cozy island villages for those seeking a peaceful retreat, and islands known for their historical significance.
What is the best time to visit Greece?
While Greece is pleasant all year round, if you want to make the most of your visit, my advice is to choose the spring and summer months, from mid-April to September. You can usually expect clean skies and warmer waters then, making it a perfect time for beach lovers and swimmers. This is also the time when an abundance of cultural festivals is held all across the islands, so it can be a great opportunity to engage in Greek traditions and customs.
Are Greek islands safe?
In general, Greek islands are considered safe for travelers. However, it is always good to follow basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not being overly trusting of strangers.
Do I need a visa to travel to the Greek islands?
If you are a citizen of the European Union or Schengen Area, you do not need it. However, if you come from a non-EU country, you need to check the visa requirements. For United States citizens, a visa is not required for non-work stays of up to 90 days. Make sure all your documents are up to date before traveling, as the customs officials may ask to see them upon arrival, regardless of your country of origin.
