3 Lesser-Known Greek Islands that Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Milos - Lesser-Known Greek Islands that you Must Visit!

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Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu… certain Greek Islands are perennially popular with overseas visitors.

With their crystal clear waters, stunning white sand, picture-perfect landscapes, and fascinating history, it’s no wonder that Greece’s numerous islands attract many people year in, year out.

But if you want to beat the crowds and discover off-the-path Greek islands, it’s well worth looking into some of these lesser-known options!


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Lesser-Known Greek Islands

Lesser-Known Greek Islands that you Must Visit!

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Lesser-Known Greek Islands That You Should Visit… and Why!

lesser-known Greek islands

The following are some of the most beautiful islands in Greece that have managed to remain relatively free from mass tourism. In no particular order, these are three of my favorite ones. 

Best Greek Island For Foodies… Sifnos

lesser-known Greek islands

Sifnos’ foodie reputation is in no small part down to the fact that it was the birthplace of Nikolaos Tselementes – the man who wrote the first-ever Greek cookbook back in 1910.

He veered away from the everyday simple recipes at the time, opting for more exotic ingredients and ways of cooking instead.

lesser-known Greek islands

Now, people flock to Sifnos for its food. The islanders produce their own terracotta cookware dishes, which are used for all sorts of recipes, especially hearty stews like revithada and soups packed with chickpeas, one of the most commonly used ingredients on the island.

While you’re there, be sure to try their sweet treats too. The almond-based amygdalota and their honey cheesecake known as melopita are delicious.

Aside from the food, you’ll also find some incredible, unspoiled sandy beaches and a calming atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Sifnos

lesser-known Greek islands

Check out these Sifnos accommodations…

Luxury accommodation – Nival Boutique Hotel

  • Located in Apollonia
  • Delicious restaurant and bar
  • Fantastic seasonal pool

Mid-range accommodation – Lighthouse Hotel

  • Located in Fros just meters from the beach
  • Comfortable rooms
  • Swimming pool with a kid-dedicated area

Budget accommodation – Smaragda Rooms and Studios

  • Traditional Cycladic property
  • Located in Platis Gialos
  • Gorgeous gardens and close to the beach

>> Alternatively, you can take a look at the best rental homes in Sifnos

Best Greek Island For a Different Way of Life…Ikaria

lesser-known Greek islands

Ikaria is known as the island of long life, as, on average, inhabitants live ten years longer than those elsewhere in Europe. 

They also have lower levels of illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and dementia. It has been suggested that their diet, habit of taking afternoon naps, and general lifestyle are the reasons for their extended lifespans.

lesser-known Greek islands

Visitors to Ikaria talk about how different the way of life is. Long, slow conversations, the communal habit of leaving doors unlocked, and not prioritizing setting appointment times. 

You can even book yourself onto a longevity retreat to learn the secrets of a longer, healthier life. 

Aside from that, check out the local wineries, the healing waters of the town of Therma, and the island’s popular church festivals, the so-called panagiri, which happen throughout the year.

Where to Stay in Ikaria

Ikaria

You can find beautiful accommodation in Ikaria without spending a fortune!

Luxury accommodation – Toxotis Villas

  • Ideal seafront holiday home in Armenistis
  • Beautifully appointed place with private parking
  • Spacious dining area and fully equipped kitchen

Mid-range accommodation – Ikaros Star Hotel

  • Located in Gialiskari village overlooking Messakti Beach
  • Comfortable place for families
  • Private balconies over the beach

Budget accommodation – Stoneworld

  • Located under 3 km from Evdilos Beach
  • Offering a garden and a shared lounge
  • Convenient kitchen facilities available

Best Greek Island For True Beauty…Milos

lesser-known Greek islands

Milos, in the Cyclades cluster, is known as the island of colors and it’s easy to see why. The island features crystal-clear emerald waters and bright white rock formations.

The reds, oranges, and pinks of the volcanic rocks that line the beaches — not to mention its incredible sunsets — make Milos a beautiful place.

There’s plenty to do while you soak up its beauty, too. Visit Byzantine castle remains, explore the island’s pirate caves and swim in the Fonissa or Neraida waterfalls. 

lesser-known Greek islands

The village of Klima is known for the fact that every house has a different colored door. While the island’s mining museum and the dormant volcano are well worth a visit for geology fans.

Like many of the Greek islands, Milos also has its own food traditions. These include ladenia (a tomato, onion, and oregano-topped flatbread, almost pizza-like) and pitarakia (small cheese and herb-filled pies). 

While you’re there, be sure to visit at least one of the island’s 70 beaches. It won’t take long for you to be amazed by its incredible sunsets.

Where to Stay in Milos

Lesser-Known Greek Islands that you Must Visit!

Check out these options for an unforgettable vacation in Milos:

Luxury accommodation – Volcano Luxury Suites Milos, Adults Only

  • Located about 8 km from the Sulphur Mines
  • Offering a restaurant, free private parking, and continental breakfast
  • There’s a fitness center, a hammam, and a sauna.

Comfort accommodation – Stylish Home in Adamas

  • Big house hosting up to 6 people
  • Offering a beautiful terrace and a garden
  • Located close to Milos’ best landmarks

Budget accommodation – Efi Studios

  • Cycladic property located in Pollonia
  • Only 200 meters from Apolonia Beach
  • Featuring a beautiful garden

Have you ever been to any of these lesser-known Greek islands?

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Lesser-Known Greek Islands that you Must Visit!

About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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