The very idea of planning a trip to the Greek islands should make your heart grow three sizes. With more than 6,000 islands to choose from—200 of which are inhabited—there's a place for every kind of traveler. However, picking the right island to maximize your vacation experience can take a little work. Each one has a unique personality. Some have desolate beaches, others have wild nightlife, and many have must-see cultural attractions. Read on to learn about some of Greece's best islands, including where they are and what they offer, so you can create a tailor-made Greek island experience.
Milos
Milos, part of the Cyclades Island group, is famous for its lunar-like landscapes. It's home to more than 70 beaches, each with its own personality. From the surreal rock formations of Sarakiniko to the charming fishing village of Klima, the island also provides a perfect Instagram-worthy backdrop, with plenty of Cycladic architecture. Don’t miss the boat tours around Kleftiko’s sea caves for an added adventure.
Tinos
Tinos is known as the religious epicenter of the Greek islands, with pilgrims making their way to the Church of Panagia Evangelistria each year to visit the Virgin Mary. But there's much more to this island than its spiritual draw. Here, visitors can roam quaint villages renowned for their marble-sculpting traditions and eat some of the best food in Greece thanks to its thriving farm-to-table food scene. Tinos is also a hub for art lovers, with local galleries galore, and naturally, it has plenty of white-sand beaches to plunk down on for a day or an entire vacation.
Hydra
With a ban on cars that allows pedestrians, bikers, and donkeys to rule the roads, Hydra is as tranquil as islands come. (Water taxis are also a popular option here.) Stone mansions and narrow streets make Hydra Town worth exploring, while locally run art galleries and museums offer inspiration. The natural beauty is plentiful here, too, with scenic trails leading to secluded beaches. The Dokos Islet hike, for example, is a 2.11-mile stretch that starts at Agios Nikolaos church and takes you from the beach to the mountains.
Paros
Paros is a quintessential Greek island, with both quiet whitewashed buildings and a lively nightlife scene. Its main port, Parikia, is an adorable waterfront village lined with tavernas that never disappoint, though if you venture inland, you can discover medieval churches and narrow cobblestone alleys filled with cafes, too. Also, don't miss Naousa, a once-quiet fishing village now packed with restaurants and bars.