The islands of Greece are famous for their natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture which is why places like Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu and Crete are so popular, but with literally hundreds of other islands to choose from, why opt for the same places that everyone else visits?

While virtually every Greek island offers beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, each has its own blend of attractions and experiences that touch on history, gastronomy, nature, leisure, religious tourism, outdoor adventures and much more. To help you pinpoint the Greek islands that are right for you, here are 10 islands in three regions in the Aegean Sea to discover. 

Skopelos

In the northwest Aegean sit the Sporades, a group of magnificent, sun-dappled Greek islands known for their stunning beaches, wooded terrain and crystal-clear waters. You might not know its name, but if you saw the movie version of the hit ABBA musical ‘Mamma Mia’ then you’ll be familiar with one of those islands, Skopelos. This picturesque beach destination is renowned for sun and sand, but don’t miss the towering 13th-century castle in the capital Chora, its Byzantine monasteries or the well-preserved Skopelian houses in the colourful village of Glossa.

Skyros

Another of the four inhabited islands in the Sporades group worth exploring is Skyros. Just three and a half hours from Athens, this ruggedly beautiful island is linked to many heroes of Greek mythology. Known for its golden sand beaches, pine forests and layers of history, Skyros is perfect for anyone seeking rich culture, outdoor adventure or a simple carefree holiday of relaxation by the sea. 

Samos

Dotted with islands large and small, visitors return again and again to the northeastern Aegean to discover what makes each island unique.  Start with Samos, a charming yet cosmopolitan destination that is steeped in history and natural beauty. Here you’ll find a temple that was once the largest in all of ancient Greece, towering mountains and a wine culture so renowned that the Vatican once kept a winery here to produce wine for Holy Communion.

Psara

For something more laid back, there’s tiny Psara. Inhabited since antiquity, this tranquil island in the northeastern Aegean is home to some of the tastiest seafood in all of Greece. Like many Greek islands, it boasts a surprising number of local culinary delights including its famed thyme honey which is harvested just once a year.

Lesvos

Despite being the third largest Greek island, Lesvos flies under the radar for many travellers. It has all the elements that make Greek islands so enticing, including its mild Mediterranean climate. It’s also famous for its contributions to the arts with such fabled names as the poets Sappho and Alcaeus hailing from this body of land. Spend some time here and you just might be writing poems of your own as odes to the island’s beauty!

Chios

Believed to the the birthplace of the famous writer Homer, this quaint island is best known for its medieval monastery that is today recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s just one of the many historic aspects awaiting to be discovered that date all of the way back to the Neolithic Age.

Rhodes

In the southeast Aegean lie the Dodecanese, a collection of islands known for their historic architecture, beautiful scenery and quiet beaches. Among the most irresistible islands in this group is Rhodes, a Mediterranean gem with a medieval past that is blended with Greek tradition. It is an island of unparalleled natural beauty where magnificent beaches face pine woods on the mountainsides from which villages overlook seaside towns. With its abundance of archaeological sites, medieval monuments and cosmopolitan resorts, it is a destination that will satisfy even the most demanding traveller.

Symi

Another worthy choice to explore in the Dodecanese is the colourful island of Symi which is known for its beaches, traditional villages and the spectacular 18th-century Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis. The views of the many-hued houses that line the slopes surrounding the island’s main harbour are especially postcard-worthy.

Kos

Home to Hippocrates of Hippocratic Oath fame and the third largest island in the Dodecanese chain, Kos is rapidly gaining in popularity as people discover its fantastic beaches, exemplary nightlife and decadent local food. As you explore the island, you’ll discover several lovely villages and all the history you can handle. It also boasts plenty of accommodation options making it popular with couples and families alike.

Astypalea

Shaped like a butterfly, this Dodecanese island has become a model for energy autonomy and green living. The island’s main town, Chora, is said to be one of the most attractive in all of the Aegean. Perched above the town you’ll spot a castle wall and beyond that the stunning white domes of Evangelistria and Agios Georgios churches.