Exploring the lesser-known islands of Greece: A guide to the hidden gems of the Aegean Sea.

Welcome to Kythira Island, the island of Aphrodite! Located at the southern tip of the Peloponnese, Kythira offers a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds of the more popular Greek islands.

With crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and picturesque villages, Kythira is a serene destination known for its natural beauty. According to Greek mythology, the goddess Aphrodite was born here, and her spirit can be felt throughout the island.

While on Kythira, be sure to visit the breathtaking Chora, the island's capital. With its winding alleys, charming houses, and stunning views, Chora is a must-see. Other highlights include the Venetian castle in Chora and the picturesque fishing village of Avlemonas.

Kythira also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. Explore the island's stunning beaches, including the popular Kapsali Beach and the secluded Kaladi Beach.

If you're a foodie, you'll love Kythira's delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try the island's famous honey, cheese, and olive oil, as well as fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.

Overall, Kythira Island is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or culture, Kythira has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the island of Aphrodite!

Located in the northern Aegean Sea, Samothrace Island is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled natural beauty. With its rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and lush forests, Samothrace is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The easiest way to reach Samothrace is by ferry from Alexandroupoli or Kavala on the mainland. The journey takes around 90 minutes, and there are several ferry companies to choose from. You can also fly to the nearby island of Thassos and then take a ferry to Samothrace.

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Samothrace's stunning natural landscapes. The island is home to Mount Saos, the highest peak in the Aegean, and numerous hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, hot springs, and secluded beaches. The most popular hike is the trek to the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, a sacred site dating back to ancient times.

Samothrace also boasts several beautiful beaches, such as Pachia Ammos, Vatos, and Kipos. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. For a more secluded beach experience, head to the beach of Fonias, which is accessible only by foot.

If you're interested in history, don't miss the chance to visit the Archaeological Museum of Samothrace, which houses artifacts from the island's ancient past. You can also explore the island's traditional villages, such as Therma, Kamariotissa, and Chora, which are known for their charming architecture and friendly locals.

Samothrace offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Most of the hotels and guesthouses are located in Kamariotissa, the island's main port, and in Chora, the capital. For a more rustic experience, you can also stay in one of the island's traditional guesthouses, which are located in the villages and offer a glimpse into local life.

Over all, Samothrace Island is a natural paradise that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to hike, swim, or explore ancient history, you're sure to find it on this stunning island. So pack your bags and head to Samothrace for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Aegean.

Astypalaia Island is a hidden gem in the Aegean Sea that is slowly gaining popularity as a must-visit destination. Located between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese islands, Astypalaia is the perfect destination for those who want to escape the crowds and experience a peaceful and authentic Greek island.

Getting to Astypalaia can be a bit challenging as there are no direct flights from Athens. The best way to reach the island is by taking a ferry from Piraeus or one of the nearby islands. The journey takes around 8 hours, but the breathtaking scenery along the way makes it all worth it.

One of the main attractions of Astypalaia is its stunning Chora, a picturesque town built on a hill that overlooks the Aegean Sea. The Chora is full of whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and narrow alleys that are perfect for strolling around. Make sure to visit the Venetian Castle, which offers panoramic views of the island.

Astypalaia is also home to some beautiful beaches, including Livadi, Maltezana, and Vatses. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters and are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can explore the island's rugged coastline by renting a boat or taking a kayak tour.

Foodies will also love Astypalaia, which is known for its delicious local cuisine. Make sure to try the island's famous "mizithra" cheese, which is made from sheep's milk and is a staple in many local dishes. You should also try the island's fresh seafood, which is caught daily by local fishermen.

Overall, Astypalaia is a hidden treasure that offers a unique and authentic Greek island experience. With its stunning scenery, charming town, and delicious cuisine, it's definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list.

Tilos Island, located in the Dodecanese archipelago of Greece, is a small island with a big heart that offers a unique and authentic Greek island experience. With its unspoiled nature, traditional architecture, and friendly locals, Tilos is the perfect destination for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

Getting to Tilos is easy, as there are daily ferry connections from the nearby islands of Rhodes, Kos, and Symi, as well as from Piraeus and other mainland ports. Once on the island, visitors can explore the charming villages, stunning beaches, and natural wonders that make Tilos so special.

One of the main attractions of Tilos is its natural beauty. The island is home to a number of protected areas, including a marine park, a bird sanctuary, and a nature reserve. Visitors can explore the island's rugged coastline, hike through its mountains and valleys, and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.

Tilos is also known for its traditional architecture, which has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. The island's main village, Megalo Chorio, is a charming collection of whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and picturesque squares. Make sure to visit the village's medieval castle, which offers panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea.

Another must-see attraction on Tilos is the Eristos Beach, a long and sandy beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is ideal for those who want to relax and unwind in a peaceful and natural setting.

Foodies will also love Tilos, which is known for its delicious local cuisine. Make sure to try the island's famous "revithada," a traditional dish made from chickpeas that is slow-cooked in a clay pot with onions, tomatoes, and herbs. You should also try the island's fresh seafood, which is caught daily by local fishermen.

Overall, Tilos Island is a small but charming destination that offers a unique and authentic Greek island experience. With its natural beauty, traditional architecture, and delicious cuisine, it's definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list.

Folegandros Island is a small, yet breathtaking island in the Cyclades island group of Greece. Known for its stunning landscapes, whitewashed houses, and pristine beaches, Folegandros offers visitors an authentic Greek experience that is often overlooked by more popular tourist destinations.

 

Folegandros can be reached by ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens, or from other nearby islands such as Santorini and Milos. During the high season, there are several ferries per day, while in the off-season, service may be more limited.

One of the most popular activities on Folegandros is hiking. The island is covered in a network of well-maintained trails that lead through lush green valleys, past charming villages, and to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Aegean Sea. Some popular hikes include the path from Chora to the Church of Panagia, and the hike to the top of the island's highest peak, Profitis Ilias.

Folegandros is also known for its beautiful beaches. The island has a mix of both pebble and sandy beaches, with some of the most popular being Agios Nikolaos, Agkali, and Livadaki. Many of these beaches are accessible by foot or by boat, and some offer beachside tavernas serving up delicious Greek cuisine.

Exploring the island's main town, Chora, is a must-do. This picturesque town is built on the edge of a cliff and is known for its whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Visitors can wander through the town's charming streets, visit the Folklore Museum, and take in the beauty of the island's traditional architecture.

Folegandros has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Many visitors opt to stay in Chora, which offers easy access to the island's main sights and attractions. However, there are also several beachside hotels and villas that offer a more secluded experience.

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh, flavorful ingredients, and Folegandros is no exception. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and grilled octopus, along with local specialties such as Matsata, a homemade pasta dish. For a refreshing drink, try the island's signature cocktail, the Folegandros Sunset, made with local honey, citrus fruits, and vodka.

Overall, Folegandros Island offers a unique and authentic Greek experience that is sure to leave visitors feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and delicious cuisine, Folegandros is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

If you're looking for a peaceful and unspoiled Greek island experience, Anafi may be just what you're looking for. Located in the Aegean Sea, south of Santorini, Anafi is a tiny, isolated island that boasts stunning natural beauty and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere.

Getting to Anafi is not the easiest task, as there are limited transportation options available. You can take a ferry from Santorini or Athens, but keep in mind that the ferry schedule is not very frequent. However, the effort is definitely worth it, as Anafi offers visitors a unique and tranquil experience that is hard to find on other, more popular Greek islands.

Once on Anafi, you'll discover a variety of pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. You can also explore the island's rugged landscape, which includes rocky hills, cliffs, and volcanic formations. The island is also home to several small villages, where you can experience the local way of life and sample delicious Greek cuisine.

One of the most popular attractions on Anafi is the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The monastery was built in the 17th century and is an important pilgrimage site for Greek Orthodox Christians. Visitors can explore the monastery and enjoy the breathtaking views from its location high above the sea.

Anafi Island is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing and off-the-beaten-path vacation. Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beach, hiking through the island's scenic landscape, or immersing yourself in Greek culture, Anafi has something for everyone. So why not add this secluded haven to your travel bucket list?