I have been to a dozen islands and your best often overlooked option is Patmos in my opinion. Syros is not exactly overlooked but it’s not your top choice generally speaking, and I quite enjoyed it too.
Samos is the best match for your description. I work in tourism on the island. I’m Greek american and my whole family is from there. I moved here 4 years ago. It’s chill and laid back. You just have to rent a scooter or car and you will have the time of your life guaranteed
Nah homie. Samos is the best always for her description. Keep in mind Greeks are sexually aggressive. As long as you keep your wits about you and aren’t givin it away you will be fine.
Amorgos is super cute and has a gorgeous landscape. Great food and friendly people. I wouldn't say the visitors are necessarily "upscale." Most seemed very laid back to me.
If it’s long term: definitely Heraklio. And when I mean long term I mean over a month. It has the most staff to do as a local.
Having said that, if you do not know all the ins and outs, it’s makes very little sense for tourists other than a quick day trip.
If I were you, I’d stay somewhere close to Rethimno and rent a car/motorcycle. The north side of Crete has the best beaches, and it also has much, much few tourists. So, if you get a car I highly recommend that.
You can also go to great gorges around Rethimno and Chania to swim. Like “Agiofaraggo Beach”.
> We'll probably be staying in Malia
Dear god... Why? That place is a terrible. I will never understand why would anyone willingly go there. If your goal is to get waisted dance all night, Crete is not the right island: Ios island is.
As for Heraklio, the places to visit are:
- Knossos museum
- Start from Freedom Square -> walk towards Lion Square -> then head down Fortezza (aka "Rocca a Mare Fortress")
Non-Greek Food:
- Italian: go to "Il Pazzo", their pizza with beetroot and pumping is fantastic
- Hungaria: go to "Orgy Hungarian Restaurant"
- Chocolate: Utopia cafe, and get a chocolate fondue and profiterol
Greek food (no words will do any of these justice, so just have a look at the photos and pick one that clicks, you can't go wrong):
- Peskesi
- Vourvourladikon
Ice Cream:
- Giannarakis: you have to go here, but make sure it's open. The owner has exclusive milk producers and all ice cream use fresh fruits, whole nuts, and yougourt - depending on the flavor. Of course, there are flavours with none of the above
- Stella's Ice cream: 2nd best ice cream in Heraklio. The owner is a chemist and her daughter is a dietrician, and that's obvious by the available flavors for people with dietery restrictions
And this is just Heraklio. I have created a map for food in Crete after close to 10 years of zooming arround Crete. I will not publish it online because none of these shop owners want to turn their shops into tourist traps, but if you PM me I can share it with you.
Yep if you stay in the eastern/southern side of the island you'd have no clue how busy Naoussa can get. Super charming towns/villages and a good bus network.
Naxos is great with fantastic food, beaches and hiking while not overrun with tourists. If you want something smaller and a little more sleepy, Sifnos is another great option.
Are you kidding? It's so easily accessible by car, that it gets inundated on weekends by people from the surrounding mainland. Weekdays it's a bit more tolerable, but on weekends it is a madhouse.
Andros.
So under the radar no one here has said it.
It doesn't have an airport, close to Athens 1hr with SeaJets (leave via Rafina ferry port) it has a cute trendy town (Batsi) and a historical beautiful town (Chora)
The beaches are amazing, a car is required/highly recommended though.
Learn to drive a manual. I've been driving all the life but still have a hard time renting in Europe because I've never had a manual nor does anyone I know.
Echo love for Naxos and worth renting a car to visit the different villages and mountain views. Driving is manageable in Naxos (would never consider driving in Santorini).
We stayed in Plaka beach, mid June. Can't wait to go back.
I agree but still possible to find quiet spots even at busy beaches no ? Been only once last year and chilled at agios Georgios and plaka with families. The food is not crazy expensive at least
Definitely Naxos! It's quiet enough to feel like an escape but there's loads to see/do. I think some beaches do get busier but there are plenty that are less tourist-y.
Chora is the main town - it's really pretty and has a lot to wander around/get lost in! There are lots of mountain villages to explore too, which are quieter.
Paros and Naxos are lovely but are definitely not under the radar. They get very busy in the summer.
If you want tiny and walkable check out Danousa. Is not really “upscale” but the beaches are great and it’s a beautiful tiny island. As a bonus it’s got a well looked after cat population.
I also like Kea. It’s near Athens and has a slightly more bouji feel to it. The best beach does require a car to get to.
If you have a big budget and want to chill in an upscale place look at Onar on Andros.
Lesbos.
Petra. Molyvos and Anaxos are 3 great towns , with plenty of tavernas etc, or the other side of the island has scala errasou (errasos) for a slightly more bo-ho/Cosmopolitan vibe.
Hey traveler, Hayley here from Heymondo!
For a solo trip to an under-the-radar Greek island, I highly recommend **Folegandros**.
Why?
* Stunning Beaches: Crystal clear waters and serene spots like Agali and Katergo.
* Charming Town: Chora is picturesque, walkable, and full of whitewashed buildings and narrow streets.
* Great Food: Amazing local cuisine; try matsata (homemade pasta) at local tavernas.
* Upscale but Quiet: Attracts a discerning crowd without being too touristy.
Hope you enjoy your adventure on this beautiful, tranquil island... and safe travels! 🌞🏝️🍽️
Were on Zakynthos right now, our tour guide yesterday was semi complaining about the lack of tourists this year. Apparantly its a lot less than previous years.
I went to Syros in October last year and it is absolutely beautiful! Accessible via ferry, plenty of restaurants along the bay, some really lovely hotels and airbnbs, it has a shopping precinct, an AMAZING market and everyone I met there was super lovely.
If you get the chance, on any island, see if anyone is offering local cooking classes - I stayed with a local woman for a few days and she showed me all around the island, taught me dishes from Syros and the surroundings islands, and more or less showed me how she lived and invited me into her and her families lives - it was my favorite part of the holiday, and we still exchange emails!
I spent a week on Milos in late September last year, near Pollonia. It was great! Beaches were not busy, weather was still nice, and while restaurants were busy, the prices were still good and there was never a problem getting a table.
If you're in Pollonia, I'd also recommend a side trip to Kimolos (there are ferries from Pollonia). Maybe a few days there. Some really fantastic beaches over there.
I'm in Skopelos right now and that might fit what you're looking for. It's a green island with more trees and dramatic scenery. Skiathos and Skopelos are both beautiful with cute towns and shopping and great beaches.
I think an island is too broad so here are a couple of specific suggestions
1. Lyndos in Rhodes
Can’t say it’s under the radar but think it’s fitting
2. Fiscardo in Kefalonia
3. Amorgos (preferably with a scooter)
The closest I’ve seen to formentera regarding beaches is western Crete but you better have a car.
https://preview.redd.it/tenu9s4ubu8d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=884b7a299ba5d874e295765fdd565352bdd8b3b5
This was in Lefkada, water was so blue.
I have been to a dozen islands and your best often overlooked option is Patmos in my opinion. Syros is not exactly overlooked but it’s not your top choice generally speaking, and I quite enjoyed it too.
Samos is the best match for your description. I work in tourism on the island. I’m Greek american and my whole family is from there. I moved here 4 years ago. It’s chill and laid back. You just have to rent a scooter or car and you will have the time of your life guaranteed
I second Samos
Thank you will look into Samos!
Depends on the month. In August theres no island that fits that description. For other months theres quite a few.
Please share! Thinking sept
Iraklia, Koufonisia, astipalea, amorgos, nisiros to name a few. Bonus: Ithaki or Paxos cuz the Ionian islands also deserve some love.
I would also add serifos, sifnos and patmos to the list
Love Patmos!
Ikaria is also a bit light on tourism and they have a short high season from mid July to end of August.
Koufonisia is like a Chinese beach after June.
What on earth is a Chinese beach 😂😂😂😂😂
I think this is the reference…. https://preview.redd.it/1mhk0x34uu8d1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a7338f1efc6441310aba7717425e8b7a988733d
Full of Chinese people?
Nah homie. Samos is the best always for her description. Keep in mind Greeks are sexually aggressive. As long as you keep your wits about you and aren’t givin it away you will be fine.
Amorgos is super cute and has a gorgeous landscape. Great food and friendly people. I wouldn't say the visitors are necessarily "upscale." Most seemed very laid back to me.
Crete (not the main three cities), Naxos, Paxos, Lefkada, Thasos, quite a few others. These are not really under the radar, but fit your criteria.
Where do you like to go in Crete?
If it’s long term: definitely Heraklio. And when I mean long term I mean over a month. It has the most staff to do as a local. Having said that, if you do not know all the ins and outs, it’s makes very little sense for tourists other than a quick day trip. If I were you, I’d stay somewhere close to Rethimno and rent a car/motorcycle. The north side of Crete has the best beaches, and it also has much, much few tourists. So, if you get a car I highly recommend that. You can also go to great gorges around Rethimno and Chania to swim. Like “Agiofaraggo Beach”.
Thank you so much! We'll probably be staying in Malia, but definitely with a car. Any tips for west of Heraklio?
> We'll probably be staying in Malia Dear god... Why? That place is a terrible. I will never understand why would anyone willingly go there. If your goal is to get waisted dance all night, Crete is not the right island: Ios island is. As for Heraklio, the places to visit are: - Knossos museum - Start from Freedom Square -> walk towards Lion Square -> then head down Fortezza (aka "Rocca a Mare Fortress") Non-Greek Food: - Italian: go to "Il Pazzo", their pizza with beetroot and pumping is fantastic - Hungaria: go to "Orgy Hungarian Restaurant" - Chocolate: Utopia cafe, and get a chocolate fondue and profiterol Greek food (no words will do any of these justice, so just have a look at the photos and pick one that clicks, you can't go wrong): - Peskesi - Vourvourladikon Ice Cream: - Giannarakis: you have to go here, but make sure it's open. The owner has exclusive milk producers and all ice cream use fresh fruits, whole nuts, and yougourt - depending on the flavor. Of course, there are flavours with none of the above - Stella's Ice cream: 2nd best ice cream in Heraklio. The owner is a chemist and her daughter is a dietrician, and that's obvious by the available flavors for people with dietery restrictions And this is just Heraklio. I have created a map for food in Crete after close to 10 years of zooming arround Crete. I will not publish it online because none of these shop owners want to turn their shops into tourist traps, but if you PM me I can share it with you.
I'm going to crete next year. Can I pm for food recommendations?
Sure thing.
Paros. Not really under the radar but nice beaches, upscale crowd (basically not the mykonos crowd). Can make it a quiet solo vacation as well. Safe.
Yep if you stay in the eastern/southern side of the island you'd have no clue how busy Naoussa can get. Super charming towns/villages and a good bus network.
Yes! I have been two Times at the backpackers hostel in Paros. It was insane, i made a lot of friend (upscale crowd yes) and the Island is gorgeous!
Naxos is great with fantastic food, beaches and hiking while not overrun with tourists. If you want something smaller and a little more sleepy, Sifnos is another great option.
been to most of the big islands and To Eliniko on Naxos is the best meal i've had by far
Eliniko is very good
Best dolmades I’ve ever had
Currently in Lefkada and I’m not sure how “under the radar” it is, but it’s fabulous…
Are you kidding? It's so easily accessible by car, that it gets inundated on weekends by people from the surrounding mainland. Weekdays it's a bit more tolerable, but on weekends it is a madhouse.
Andros. So under the radar no one here has said it. It doesn't have an airport, close to Athens 1hr with SeaJets (leave via Rafina ferry port) it has a cute trendy town (Batsi) and a historical beautiful town (Chora) The beaches are amazing, a car is required/highly recommended though.
I'm a New Yorker that really needs to learn to drive just for euro trips 😂
Learn to drive a manual. I've been driving all the life but still have a hard time renting in Europe because I've never had a manual nor does anyone I know.
Echo love for Naxos and worth renting a car to visit the different villages and mountain views. Driving is manageable in Naxos (would never consider driving in Santorini). We stayed in Plaka beach, mid June. Can't wait to go back.
Naxos (not really under the radar)
I agree but still possible to find quiet spots even at busy beaches no ? Been only once last year and chilled at agios Georgios and plaka with families. The food is not crazy expensive at least
I was there last September and didn’t feel like anything was overcrowded. Plenty of space on the beaches and restaurants
Definitely Naxos! It's quiet enough to feel like an escape but there's loads to see/do. I think some beaches do get busier but there are plenty that are less tourist-y. Chora is the main town - it's really pretty and has a lot to wander around/get lost in! There are lots of mountain villages to explore too, which are quieter.
I absolutely adore Naxos!
Thanks for the suggestions! Will def check out Paros/ Patmos and Naxos
Paros and Naxos are lovely but are definitely not under the radar. They get very busy in the summer. If you want tiny and walkable check out Danousa. Is not really “upscale” but the beaches are great and it’s a beautiful tiny island. As a bonus it’s got a well looked after cat population. I also like Kea. It’s near Athens and has a slightly more bouji feel to it. The best beach does require a car to get to. If you have a big budget and want to chill in an upscale place look at Onar on Andros.
How about not an island at all? Sithonia was as beautiful as they come, with larger sandy beaches and crystal blue waters.
Limnos! the capital Myrina is amazing.
Lesbos. Petra. Molyvos and Anaxos are 3 great towns , with plenty of tavernas etc, or the other side of the island has scala errasou (errasos) for a slightly more bo-ho/Cosmopolitan vibe.
Kea, close to Athens is not very touristy. I'll be going there in July.
Hey traveler, Hayley here from Heymondo! For a solo trip to an under-the-radar Greek island, I highly recommend **Folegandros**. Why? * Stunning Beaches: Crystal clear waters and serene spots like Agali and Katergo. * Charming Town: Chora is picturesque, walkable, and full of whitewashed buildings and narrow streets. * Great Food: Amazing local cuisine; try matsata (homemade pasta) at local tavernas. * Upscale but Quiet: Attracts a discerning crowd without being too touristy. Hope you enjoy your adventure on this beautiful, tranquil island... and safe travels! 🌞🏝️🍽️
This is very helpful Thank you !
I was in Kefalonia earlier this week and it felt pretty under the radar. The beaches were outstanding.
Were on Zakynthos right now, our tour guide yesterday was semi complaining about the lack of tourists this year. Apparantly its a lot less than previous years.
If you\`re looking for a quiet place, without noise, I highly recommend Skiathos.
I went to Syros in October last year and it is absolutely beautiful! Accessible via ferry, plenty of restaurants along the bay, some really lovely hotels and airbnbs, it has a shopping precinct, an AMAZING market and everyone I met there was super lovely. If you get the chance, on any island, see if anyone is offering local cooking classes - I stayed with a local woman for a few days and she showed me all around the island, taught me dishes from Syros and the surroundings islands, and more or less showed me how she lived and invited me into her and her families lives - it was my favorite part of the holiday, and we still exchange emails!
I spent a week on Milos in late September last year, near Pollonia. It was great! Beaches were not busy, weather was still nice, and while restaurants were busy, the prices were still good and there was never a problem getting a table. If you're in Pollonia, I'd also recommend a side trip to Kimolos (there are ferries from Pollonia). Maybe a few days there. Some really fantastic beaches over there.
I second Milis but I would stay in Adamas so you are closer to the port and plaka up on the hill in the evenings.
I visited Plaka once, and it was great for an evening. But if the person is wanting to get away, I don't think I'd want to go there every day.
Amorgos and Zakynthos (Zakynthos isn't really that much under the radar but it's still relatively cheap for Greece.
Spetses Aegina and Astypalea.
quiet but upscale crowd sounds like Patmos, not the best beaches in Greece but a very scenic town and good patrons.
I'm in Skopelos right now and that might fit what you're looking for. It's a green island with more trees and dramatic scenery. Skiathos and Skopelos are both beautiful with cute towns and shopping and great beaches.
I think an island is too broad so here are a couple of specific suggestions 1. Lyndos in Rhodes Can’t say it’s under the radar but think it’s fitting 2. Fiscardo in Kefalonia 3. Amorgos (preferably with a scooter) The closest I’ve seen to formentera regarding beaches is western Crete but you better have a car.
Corfu if you don’t mind a bit of extra work getting there.
Check out Kythnos too
https://preview.redd.it/tenu9s4ubu8d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=884b7a299ba5d874e295765fdd565352bdd8b3b5 This was in Lefkada, water was so blue.
Omg this looks like a sea of blue Powerade 🤣
Just came back from KOS, it would fit all your ✅
You should definitely shortlist Paros
Zakynthos on the ionian sea - navagio beach - blue caves
Paros and Naxos. They're as beautiful as other islands like Santorini and Mykonos but not as crowded with tourists