Sail into the secret side of Greece
The 9 best-kept secrets in the Aegean and Ionian
Greece is quite literally an endless coastline, with islands as far as you can see (and then some). Over the years, a handful of islands have become household names across the world, with Santorini, Corfu and Mykonos being in the spotlight. But what about all the other, lesser-known islands in the Aegean and Ionian, you may ask.
They are doing their thing, just like they have for thousands of years, making summers in this corner of the world just that extra special. Think dreamy beaches, secluded coves and dramatic cliffs, only without the crowds or the sense you are being rushed.
Now, let’s take a closer look at 9 of the best Greek island hidden gems!
Milos
Who needs Santorini, with all the commotion and crowds over the summer, when you can kick back and enjoy the epic sunset view from Plaka in Milos? As soon as you set foot on Milos, you’ll notice that the island feels otherworldly, exciting and refreshingly serene.
There’s no better introduction to the island’s lunar charm than diving off the volcanic white rocks at Sarakiniko, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece or exploring the sea caves at Kleftiko.
For something a bit quieter, then relax with an iced drink in Firopotamos or stroll through the narrow alleys of Trypiti. More than just a pretty face, Milos is an unforgettable experience.
How to get to Milos
Getting to Milos from Athens is straightforward, with the Piraeus-Milos ferry route being available every day of the week. The journey can take as little as 2.5 hrs, so you can easily be stretching out on the beach around noon!
Few beaches as striking as Sarakiniko in Milos
Folegandros
Do you dream of untouched, sandy beaches and wild cliffs with dramatic views of the Aegean, but without the mass tourism? Then what you are looking for is Folegandros, the quiet and oh-so romantic Greek island, where time has seemingly stopped.
One of the great things about Folegandros is that despite its proximity to other popular Aegean islands, it still feels very much like an undiscovered paradise on earth. Not convinced? Go for a swim at Agali or Livadaki and take a walk through the narrow alleys of Chora for a touch of that minimalist, Cycladic charm.
And for a truly mesmerizing way to end your first day on this paradise island, head up the cobbled paths to the hilltop church of Panagia for a sunset that doesn’t need any filters. There’s no rush here, just space to breathe, wander, and fall in love with slow island life.
How to get to Folegandros
Traveling to Folegandros by boat is a piece of cake, with year-round connections with the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio near Athens, as well as many other nearby Cycladic islands. The journey from Piraeus to Folegandros is usually under 4 hrs, but if you are up for a cruise, the Lavrio-Folegandros ferry takes around 7 hrs.
Golden hour in Folegandros
Astypalea
Located in the middle of the Aegean, both figuratively and literally, Astypalea is an island with Cycladic charm and a Dodecanese soul. In other words, Astypalea is the island that has something for everyone.
Longing for lazy days under the sun? Then grab your towel and claim your spot on the sandy shores of Kaminakia or Vatses. Want to add a dash of adrenaline and jaw-dropping views to your Greek island escape? Pack your hiking shoes and head for the trails across the island that will take you to scenic mountain villages, whitewashed churches, waterfalls and secluded coves.
Adding to Astypalea’s hidden gem status, the butterfly-shaped island is not only one of the most underrated islands in Greece, it is also one of the most sustainable, as it is the first with a smart mobility project. Still need convincing? Then check out our week-long trip in Astypalea.
How to get to Astypalea
There is a year-round Athens (Piraeus) - Astypalea ferry connection, which is usually available 5 days a week during the summer. The journey from the port of Piraeus near the Greek capital to Astypalea takes as little as 7 hrs.
Did we mention that Astypalea also has windmills?
Ithaca
Although famous as the legendary homeland of Odysseus, Ithaca has somehow managed to keep a low profile. And that is perfectly fine, it’s a place that doesn’t shout to be seen. Here, it’s all about subtle beauty.
That means cypress-covered hills, sleepy fishing villages with a Venetian charm, and ancient ruins hidden around every corner, hinting at Ithaca’s mythical past. As one of the most peaceful Greek islands, you won’t find thumping beach clubs. Instead, it's all about the pebbled beaches where it’s just you and the azure waters of the Ionian, like Gidaki and Filiatro.
One thing is certain about Ithaca: whether you're arriving from near or far, it always feels like coming home.
How to get to Ithaca
Getting to Ithaca requires a bit of traveling to the Peloponnese, but rest assured, it will not take ten years to reach Ithaca! Ferries from Patras to Ithaca set sail every day, usually around midday, and take about 3.5 hrs to reach the port of Pisaetos. Plenty of time to enjoy a quick swim or bite before enjoying the sunset.
Discover true serenity in Ithaca's Gidaki beach
Alonissos
Alonissos is the island that lets you breathe, it is the green soul of the Sporades, wrapped in pine forests and quiet beaches with water so clear it’s almost unnerving. The National Marine Park here isn’t just for show, it’s Europe’s largest, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot a monk seal lazing on the rocks near the Blue Cave.
The vibe in Patitiri is mellow, but head uphill to Chora, and you’ll find a beautifully restored old village with winding alleys, hidden terraces, and views that stretch out like a watercolor painting. Not loud or flashy, this nature lover's paradise is just deeply (and quietly) beautiful.
How to get to Alonissos
You have a few options to get to Alonissos from the Greek mainland by boat:
- The most convenient port of departure is Mantoudi in Evia, which is about 130 km north of Athens. The Mantoudi-Alonissos ferry takes 40 min to 2 hrs, with up to 3 daily crossings in the summer.
- It is also possible to reach Alonissos from Volos, which is about 330 km north of Athens. The Volos-Alonissos journey lasts 3 to 5 hrs and there are up to 3 daily departures in the summer.
- During the summer, from June to September, you can also catch the Thessaloniki-Alonissos ferry, which usually operates once a week with about 4 hrs travel time.
Alonissos, the colorful jewel of the Aegean
Sifnos
Stylish but never showy, Sifnos is where low-key luxury meets Greek tradition. One moment you’re hiking along a dry-stone trail past ancient towers and thyme-scented hillsides, the next you’re eating mastelo lamb from a clay pot in a beachside taverna in Vathy.
Art runs deep here, from handcrafted pottery in Kamares, and a food culture that punches way above its weight. After all, this is the island of Nikolaos Tselementes, one of the most influential Greek chefs. Sure, you will come for the quiet, but ultimately, you’ll be staying for the layers.
How to get to Sifnos
The most convenient way to get to Sifnos is from Athens, with the Piraeus-Sifnos ferry being available year-round, with up to 4 daily crossings in the summer and the journey lasting 2.5 to 5 hrs.
You can also catch a ferry from Lavrio to Sifnos, which operates seasonally, from the end of May to September. Ferries from the port southwest of Athens are less frequent, usually once a day, and with an average travel time of about 3 hrs.
Kick back and give in to the summer vibes of Sifnos
Kythnos
Kythnos flies under the radar, and that’s its secret power. It might be a short hop from Athens, but it feels a world away. Picture over 100 beaches (seriously), hot springs bubbling up by the sea, and tiny villages like Driopida that look like movie sets (we checked, they’re real).
The pace here is slow, the people are real, and the sunsets feel personal. Kolona beach steals the show with its sandbar splitting the sea in two, but the Cycladic island is full of surprises, if you’re up for a wander. This is what the Aegean is all about, only without the crowds or fuss.
How to get to Kythnos
As one of the closest slands to Athens, traveling to Kythnos is a breeze. The most frequent departures are from Lavrio, which is about 60 km southwest of the Greek capital. The Lavrio-Kythnos ferry connection is active year-round, with up to 6 daily crossings and travel time ranging from 1 to 2 hrs. Additionally, from June to November, you can also travel from Piraeus to Kythnos, with the journey taking around 1.5 hrs.
So, how many beaches can you count over here in Kolona?
Symi
From the moment you approach Symi’s colorful port, you are in for a ride. Neoclassical mansions stacked like pastel Lego bricks, each one a different shade of honey, peach, or lemon. But as you get a bit closer, you’ll quickly see that Symi is more than just a pretty face.
This is where you can dive off the rocks at Agios Georgios Dysalonas and swim in jewel-toned coves, hike through ancient paths to quiet monasteries like Panormitis, or simply enjoy a glass of ouzo with a side of crispy little Symi shrimp by the sea. Symi is small, but it sure knows how to leave a big impression.
How to get to Symi
From the mainland, you hop on the Piraeus-Symi ferry all year round to reach this Greek hidden gem in the Southeastern Aegean. The journey normally takes 14 to 17 hrs and ferries are available 3-5 times a week.
Yes, Symi town really is this pretty
Amorgos
Amorgos, on the eastern corner of the Cyclades, is an island of sharp edges and blue horizons, where stone paths snake through thyme fields and lead to silent chapels. You can explore the hiking trails of Amorgos for hours without seeing another soul, then stumble into a kafeneio and suddenly feel like it's family.
The Hozoviotissa Monastery clings to the rock like it’s daring the wind to shake it off, and the sea caves below seem to glow from within. If you’ve seen The Big Blue, you will already have an idea what to expect.
How to get to Amorgos
The easiest way to get to Amorgos is to take the ferry from Piraeus, near the center of Athens, which is available year-round. There are Piraeus-Amorgos ferries that travel to either port on the island, Katapola and Aegiali, with the journey taking, on average, 5.5 hrs and 7.5 hrs respectively.
The whitewashed church of Agia Anna in Amorgos
Best time to visit the Greek islands
It’s not really a secret anymore, the best time to visit Greece is just before or after the summer high season, namely in June or September. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and with lots of sunshine, while the crowds are still relatively thin. Additionally, ferry schedules between the Greek mainland and islands are at their most frequent, allowing you greater flexibility when planning your trip.
If you would like to experience the Greek summer at its peak, it is important to book your ferry tickets and accommodation as soon as possible, with the islands getting very busy around the 15th of August for the Assumption of Mary celebrations. If you would like to experience a Greek panigiri, but with a more laid-back atmosphere, consider visiting the islands for the celebrations of Prophet Elias on the 20th of July or the Transfiguration of Christ on the 6th of August.
A kaleidoscope of colors during sunset at Klima in Milos
With so many options, you might be wondering where to start. Well, why not try out a few of them? With regular, daily ferry connections between the Greek islands, it has never been easier to discover what really lies beyond the beaten path! You can use the Map of ferries to chart your adventure and book ferry tickets on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks.
