The best Greek islands for a holiday in 2025 2026

2. Juni 2025, 17:33 Uhr | Lesezeit: 3 Minuten

Hardly any travel destination in Europe inspires as much as the Greek islands. In their diversity, they are the perfect place to escape from everyday life and simply enjoy life. But with over 200 inhabited Greek islands, the choice is often not that easy. The travel experts at “Lonely Planet” have therefore made a selection of the best Greek islands for a holiday in 2025 – perhaps there is just the right one for your next holiday.

The 3 best Greek islands for a vacation

1. Ikaria

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For anyone looking for peace, authenticity and closeness to nature on holiday, Ikaria is the best Greek island for a holiday. Away from mass tourism, the island impresses with its wild, romantic landscape, rugged mountains, hidden beaches such as the spectacular Seychelles Beach and natural thermal springs. The warm hospitality of the locals, the slower pace of life and traditional, healthy cuisine invite you to really take a deep breath. Ikaria is one of the few “Blue Zones” in the world where people live particularly old and healthy lives - which is why it is also called the “Island of the Centenarians”. And what helps the locals to live a long life can only be good for those looking for relaxation - a holiday on Ikaria is worth it for that reason alone.

2. Alonissos

Alonissos is considered one of the most hidden pearls of the Aegean - and that's exactly what makes it so special. The island is part of the largest national park in the Mediterranean and a paradise for nature and animal lovers. Crystal clear water, remote beaches and an almost untouched landscape create ideal conditions for snorkeling, hiking and relaxing. Alonissos is also famous as a refuge for the Mediterranean monk seal, one of the rarest seal species in the world. Far away from mass tourism, the island offers an authentic, relaxed atmosphere - and the feeling of experiencing a Greece that has already disappeared in many places.

3. Kreta

Crete is the largest and most diverse Greek island and offers something unique for every type of holiday. From spectacular beaches with crystal clear waters to impressive gorges like the famous Samaria Gorge to archaeological treasures like the Palace of Knossos - this is where history meets breathtaking nature. The lively cities of Heraklion and Chania combine modern life with traditional culture and provide varied experiences. Crete is also known for its excellent cuisine, warm hospitality and the mild climate all year round, which makes exploration and swimming fun possible for a long time. This makes Crete a perfect place to combine culture, nature and enjoyment.

The best Greek islands at a glance

In addition to Ikaria, Alonissos and Crete, 9 other islands were able to convince in the ranking of the best Greek islands for a vacation. The complete list at a glance:

1. Ikaria
2. Alonissos
3. Kreta
4. Nisyros
5. Mykonos
6. Rhodos
7. Samothraki
8. Kefalonia
9. Kythira
10. Santorini
11. Samos
12. Kéa

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