Even the Greeks aren’t exactly sure about this one! Depending on where you look and what your read, the number of Greek islands varies from 3,000 to 6,000. So, Greece undeniably has an abundance of islands. It can even lay claim to having the most islands of any European country.

Spring, summer, and autumn are definitely the best time to visit the Greek islands. Traditionally, the isles hibernate from November to March.

During these months it is often difficult to get to the islands, as many ferries only run once a week in winter. Another challenge during these colder months is finding suitable accommodation and places to eat.

However, from April to October the islands are a true holiday paradise! In July and August, it can get very crowded and extremely hot. For us, the best holidaying months are May, June, September, and October!

The Greek islands await you with a pleasant Mediterranean climate. From May to October, temperatures are pleasant and warm with very little rainfall.

Winters are also mild, but rainfall increases, especially in January and February. The water temperatures range from 17° in winter to up to 28° in summer. The warmest Greek island is Rhodes. For an overview take a look at Greek weather averages throughout the year.

We are often asked which Greek island is the most beautiful or which is a little-known treasure.

With so many islands to choose from, this is not an easy question to answer. As we love authentic Greece, we often avoid the well-known islands like Rhodes, Corfu, and Mykonos, especially during the summer.

In our opinion, you are more likely to find the “real” Greece on smaller islands like Paxos, Ithaka, Sifnos, Amorgos, Symi, Lipsi, and Nisyros.

Greece has over 5,000 beaches. Which of these are the best, depends on your personal preferences: Are you dreaming about spending your days on sandy beaches? Then you’re most likely to find one perfect for you on the Cyclades or Sporades. Do you prefer white pebble beaches and glistening, clear waters? In that case, you should head to the Ionian Islands or the Dodecanese!

This depends on what your family would like to do. For an action-packed holiday with children, Corfu, for example, is ideal. The island has not only plenty to see. There is also a wide range of water sports available, beautiful beaches, and a huge water park. You will also find many family friendly holiday offers on the islands of Kos, Paros, Naxos, and Crete.

The Greek islands are a true hikers’ paradise. Centuries-old paths criss-cross the islands. In recent years there has been substantial maintenance done on the trails.

The Corfu Trail on Corfu and the E4 Trail on Crete are among the most well-known long-distance hiking trails in Greece. There are also numerous signposted hiking routes on Sifnos, Kythera, Andros, Tinos, Ithaca, and in the north of Kefalonia.

This term refers to a type of traveling where you “hop” from one Greek island to the next with just a backpack.

Island hopping is probably still the most popular form of travel in Greece, especially among younger travelers. And it is certainly worth it! As each island is a world of its own, there is plenty to see and discover in each destination.

Island hopping is especially worthwhile in the areas that offer regular ferry connections such as on the Saronic Islands, the Cyclades, and the Dodecanese Islands. You can find all ferry connections between the Greek islands here.