The July holidays are almost here and for those who want to escape the winter and enjoy the European summer, one option is travel to Greece . With a lot of nature and history, the Greek islands offer beaches, relaxation and fun — on a family trip or as a couple.
Santorini is a must-see especially for those visiting Greece for the first time. Watching the sunset in Oia, bathing in the thermal waters (Nea Kameni Hot Springs), visiting the red beach and the black sand beach are essential activities. In addition, of course, to walking around the center of Fira, finding the famous Blue Dome Church and eating a plate of Santorini fava beans, a typical bean from the region.
Although Santorini is a must on the list of any traveler going to Greece, other islands also hold natural beauty and a lot of history. With that in mind, here are five other Greek islands to visit:
Paros
Paros is an island that appeals to all audiences: children, young people and the elderly. Being quieter than other places in the Cyclades, you can find beautiful beaches and good cuisine — and also nightlife. Trying typical dishes, such as moussaka and tzatziki, are essential activities.
There, there are two main centers: the capital Parikia , where boats and ferries leave; and Naoussa, a village with typical Greek streets, white, narrow and decorated in blue. It’s a good idea to rent a car on the island to explore freely.
Boat trips that take the public to visit other places, such as Antiparos island , are also a good option for discovering the surroundings. With crystal clear waters, it is possible to snorkel and, for those who like thrills, jump from small hills straight into the sea.
A Golden Beach (Golden Beach, in English) is also a good stop, as it offers an extensive stretch of sand, a good bar and restaurant on the seafront. At around 700 meters long, it is the ideal place for those who like or want to learn water sports, such as windsurfing.
Crete
Mixing cultures from Europe, Asia and Africa, the island of Crete was home to the first European civilization, the Minoans. It’s worth a 10-day trip just around the largest of the Greek islands — that’s what local residents suggest. It’s good for going with the family or traveling as a couple. You choose!
The capital, Heraklio , is a spectacle in itself: there are beaches nearby, good bars, restaurants and lots of Greek history. For those who enjoy and want to delve deeper into the culture of the Minoans, it is possible to visit the Knossos archaeological site and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, with items dating back more than 5,000 years BC. Be sure to check out the second floor of the museum and the collection of ancient coins on display for visitors.
About a two-hour drive from the capital, another city that attracts the attention of tourists is Chania . With an Italian influence, the town offers good restaurants, bars and, close by, there are great resorts to stay at.
Near Chania, there is no shortage of options to see magnificent beaches: the Elafonisi Beach , for example, is one of the most popular. About 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car, the place is known for its sand which, in certain parts, has pink tones.
Leucade
Colonized by the Corinthians 700 years BC, Lefkada is a slightly less crowded island — so it’s a great place to relax and get closer to nature. To get there by car, just take a bridge that connects the mainland to the main city.
The beach Agiofilli It is a good example of adventure and natural beauty. After all, the road there isn’t the best — it’s worth going by bike or even going for a walk —, the landscape is wonderful. The water is crystal clear and you can find several fish near the edge (it’s a good idea to bring snorkel equipment).
Another famous beach is Porto Katsiki . With an extensive stretch of sand and blue water, the beauty of the mountains surrounding the ocean is impressive from any angle. You have to go down a staircase to get to the beach. Access by car is much better than Agiofilli beach.
A restaurant tip is Ta Kanioria Tavern , in the village of Lygia. In addition to planting ingredients in a vegetable garden on site, they prepare excellent lamb meat — and a spectacular mussel dish. At the end of the meal, as a courtesy, they deliver a dose of Geranium, a sweet and alcoholic drink made from the flower of the same name. The production of the drink is also in-house.
Naxos
The famous island of the Greek gods, Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago . There, it is also possible to find tours for all audiences. There are amusement parks for children, restaurants, nightclubs and archaeological sites. In addition to, of course, many beaches.
The island’s landmark is Portora, a large gateway that stands at the main entrance to Naxos, on the islet of Palatia. Built around 530 BC, the work was never completed. Today, it is possible to see — even from a distance — only three remaining pieces of marble.
The biggest difference between Naxos and other Cycladic islands is the construction of small buildings and a modern atmosphere in the capital , Chora, where there is space for night and day life. With DJs playing until the early hours, the island is ideal for those looking for fun.
For those who want to delve deeper into the city’s history, there is the Archaeological Museum of Naxos in the capital. You can find important objects from the Roman period, weapons made of bronze and even golden funeral urns.
When it comes to the beach, there are a few options: Saint George, for example, is a good choice to go with children. The sea is calm, shallow, close to the taverns and bathrooms. Hippie favorites Plaka, Agios Prokopios and Agia Ana are the most famous on Naxos.
Sifnos
Inhabited since the Bronze Age (around 3,000 BC), Sifnos was popular in the antiquities trade due to its gold and silver mines. The island is ideal for those looking for calm and for those who want to escape the crowds after all, the place draws attention for its tranquility — and local residents strive to maintain peace.
The island also offers beautiful beaches, delicious food, little houses with white roofs, churches and narrow streets. In the capital, Apollonia, is where most services are located, such as banks, bakeries, markets, pharmacies and a small medical center for emergencies.
A suggestion of beach with white sand, warm and crystal clear water, Vathi, 10 km west of the capital, Apollonia, is an excellent option. For those looking for peace, Herronisos beach is the perfect place.
*With information about Naxos and Sifnos from Rodrigo Zanetti, from CNN
Source: CNN Brasil
Johanna Foster is an expert opinion writer with over 7 years of experience. She has a reputation for delivering insightful and thought-provoking articles on a variety of subjects. Her work can be found on some of the top online news websites, and she is currently lending her voice to the world stock market.
