If you want quiet islands in Greece right now, the winning formula is simple: smaller ports, fewer direct flights, and limited day-trip traffic. This guide focuses on places that stay calmer even in summer, plus a few larger islands where you can still base yourself away from the busiest resort strips.
I’ve updated the access details to reflect how travelers actually move around the islands today (seasonal ferries, limited flight seats, and changing routes), so you can shortlist the right island based on how you’re arriving, how long you have, and how “quiet” you really mean.
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Lesser-Known Quiet Islands In Greece
| Island | Island Group / Region | Airport On The Island? | Most Common Access Pattern | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anafi | Cyclades | No | Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) and seasonal links via nearby Cyclades | Very low crowds, simple village life |
| Antiparos | Cyclades | No | Short ferry from Paros (then Paros via ferry/flight) | Easy seclusion with good food options |
| Donousa | Lesser Cyclades | No | Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) and links via Naxos/Amorgos | Quiet beaches, slow island pace |
| Kasos | Dodecanese | Yes | Limited domestic flights and ferries via Crete and nearby islands | Remote feel, boat-only beaches |
| Kastellorizo | Dodecanese | Yes | Most commonly via Rhodes (flight or ferry) or by sea from the Turkish coast | Harbor stays, dramatic day boat trips |
| Skyros | Sporades | Yes | Ferry from Kymi (Evia) plus domestic flights (availability varies) | Off-the-radar beaches and footpaths |
| Gavdos | Crete (Chania regional unit) | No | Boat from southern Crete (seasonal schedules) | Wild dunes, camping vibe, extreme quiet |
Greece is famous for lively islands like Mykonos and Santorini, but beyond the crowds are dozens of quieter Greek islands where summer feels slower and more relaxed. This guide highlights the best quiet islands in Greece for travelers seeking calm beaches, authentic villages, and fewer people.
From rugged, mountainous islands with ancient ruins to low-key villages by the sea, these destinations offer a genuine escape. Places like the Saronic Islands are ideal if you want peace without straying far from Athens, while others, including parts of the Cyclades and Dodecanese, reward travelers willing to take a longer ferry.
These islands may have fewer hotels and less nightlife than Santorini or Mykonos, but that’s exactly the appeal. If you’re planning a trip to Greece and want a quieter, more local experience, these are the islands worth considering.
Quiet Cyclades Islands For A Crowd-Free Summer
1. Anafi
Just a stone’s throw from the popular and overcrowded Santorini, Anafi is among the lesser-known Greek islands in the Aegean region.
Easy to reach from the port of Santorini, Anafi is one of the Greek islands that few people visit, but when they do, they can’t help but fall in love with its peaceful atmosphere and Cycladic landscape. And don’t worry, despite being so close to Santorini, the two islands seem to be a universe apart in terms of crowds and lifestyles.
Life moves at a different pace in Anafi, with its single village and ancient Greek traditions that seem to endure in our modern times.
How To Get To Anafi By Ferry Or Via Santorini
You can travel to this quiet Greek island from Athens (Piraeus) by ferry on a schedule that typically runs several times per week, depending on the season. Otherwise, you can take the ferry from Santorini and other Cyclades islands on seasonal routes. Ferry times vary by route and stop.
Since there is no airport on Anafi, travelers should first fly to Santorini Airport and then take a ferry to Anafi; ferry duration varies by sailing.
Best Things To Do In Anafi Without Crowds
Anafi is one of the most picturesque islands in Greece. Even if it is close to the cosmopolitan Santorini, Anafi has remained a virgin destination, charming and authentic, untouched by mass tourism.
Like Santorini, Anafi shares volcanic origins and features an impressive landscape of imposing cliffs and rugged, sandy beaches, most easily accessible on foot.
Anafi is an island where you won’t need to rent a car; there is only one village to visit, and it’s easy to get around. Anafi is also a popular camping destination in the country.
Where To Stay In Anafi
Golden Beach Resort, Anafi, is a modern, comfortable accommodation on the island, featuring a restaurant and excellent sea views. Children can use the outdoor pool while a delicious à la carte breakfast is served every morning at the property.
Apollon Village Hotel is another excellent place to stay in Anafi; it is perched on a hill only meters from Klisidi Beach. The hotel is built in the authentic Cycladic style, with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. It has studios and rooms with furnished balconies, while free parking is available onsite.
2. Antiparos
Antiparos, in the center of the Aegean, is a unique Cycladic Island to isolate, relax, and enjoy your summer in Greece. With its shimmering beaches and the enchanting Cave of Antiparos, it offers a tranquil haven, making it an appealing destination for quiet holidays in Greece.
The island’s relaxed vibe and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect canvas for a Greek-island experience. Antiparos guarantees seclusion with traditional Cycladic architecture and a dash of Cycladic charm.
How To Get To Antiparos From Paros And Athens
Antiparos is accessible via a short 10-minute ferry ride from Paros, which is well connected to Athens.
Best Things To Do In Antiparos For A Relaxed Trip
Once on the island, you can discover the pristine beaches, the tasty seaside tavernas, and the Cave of Antiparos, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
3. Donousa
Right opposite Naxos island, there’s a unique cluster of five small islands (known as the Lesser Cyclades) where isolating is easy and simply the way to go. All of them feature landscapes of outstanding natural beauty, pristine seas, and dreamy shores.
Donousa is one of the most beautiful islands, and it’s relatively easy to reach by boat from Naxos port.
The island of Donousa, sometimes spelled Donoussa, is located in the Aegean Sea and is a true treasure for travelers seeking a tranquil vacation destination.
How To Get To Donousa From Athens And Naxos
Donousa is only accessible by ferry, as there is no airport on the island. Ferry frequency from Athens (Piraeus) varies by season and day of the week. There are also ferry connections from islands such as Naxos and Amorgos, with schedules varying by season.
Best Things To Do In Donousa For A Quiet Holiday
If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime getaway, Donousa is the perfect spot. The warm weather and sunny skies make it the ideal destination for beachgoers, while the rich history of the Cyclades and cultural attractions offer plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Plus, on Donousa, you will have the chance to try world-renowned Greek cuisine!
Whether you like to spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the island’s hidden corners, Donousa has something for everyone. And, if you want to learn about the main attractions on Donousa, keep reading this guide we prepared specifically for you!
4. Folegandros
Folegandros, often hailed as one of the best quiet Greek islands, presents a splendid tapestry of rugged landscapes and sublime beaches. The island’s slow pace and unspoiled nature offer a pristine escape for travelers seeking quiet holidays in Greece.
Its Chora, perched atop a cliff, invites exploration and admiration, while its beaches, such as Agali and Ambeli, offer the allure of serenity and natural beauty.
Ferries from Piraeus in Athens, along with connections from other Cyclades islands, make Folegandros conveniently accessible.
5. Kimolos
Offering a rich tapestry of geological wonders and empty beaches, Kimolos stands out as a remarkable spot for small Greek island holidays.
Its charming village of Chorio and the fortress-like Kastro district inviteexploration ofo authentic island life, offering a quiet Greek holiday intertwined with history and tradition.
Reaching Kimolos is achievable via ferry from nearby Milos, which is connected to the Athens port of Piraeus, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in a serene island experience.
6. Sifnos
Famed for its culinary delights and stunning landscapes, Sifnos offers an idyllic setting for holidays on the Greek islands, with a tranquil touch. From the majestic monastery of Chrissopigi to its delightful pottery shops, the island offers a peaceful yet culturally rich getaway.
Regular ferries from Athens and other islands make Sifnos a quiet Greek island that’s easily accessible yet off the beaten path.
7. Sikinos
Sikinos, an undisturbed gem among the Cycladic islands, invitescouples seekingr thequietestt Greek islands to explore its unspoiled beauty. Characterized by its modesty and its residents’ genuine hospitality, Sikinos promises a peaceful beach holiday in Greece and a glimpse into timeless traditions.
The island, accessible by ferries from Athens and neighboring islands, offers secluded beaches and historical treasures, such as the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, making it a tranquil retreat.
8. Tinos
Tinos, an ideal destination for quiet Greek holidays, offers genuine charm and serene landscapes.
How To Get To Tinos From Athens And Mykonos
The fastest way to reach Tinos is by flying to the neighboring island of Mykonos. From there, you can take a 30-minute ferry ride to the island.
Additionally, Athens has a major international airport with daily international flights and three ferry ports, each serving Tinos: Piraeus and Rafina.
Best Things To Do In Tinos For Beaches And Pilgrimage Sites
Renowned for its exquisite churches, including the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, a major pilgrimage site, Tinos offers a tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing holiday.
The island’s beautiful beaches, such as Agios Fokas and Kionia, amplify its reputation as the best Greek island for great beaches and relaxation.
As access to Tinos is facilitated by ferries from Athens and Mykonos, you can also plan broader explorations of the Greek islands.
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Quiet Dodecanese Islands For A Low-Key Escape
9. Astypaleia
Often considered one of Greece’s prettiest islands, Astypaleia is an ideal destination for a peaceful, solitary holiday. Besides, if you are looking for a stunning Cycladic landscape, the island will not disappoint! The picturesque, whitewashed villages atop the hill dominate the island’s landscape.
A row of traditional windmills with red roofs stands next to the other as you make your way up to the Venetian castle and church, crowning the hill on top of the settlement. From here, the views of the surrounding sea are fantastic.
You can reach several quiet beaches by car or hiking. The somewhat odd shape of Astypaleia, often described as a butterfly, splits the island into two sections worth exploring.
10. Karpathos
Not as small as many of the islands mentioned so far, Karpathos is a perfect island in the Dodecanese to spend some time on your own.
Karpathos lies in the southern Aegean Sea, halfway between the larger islands of Rhodes and Crete. Isolated, secluded, and sometimes hard to reach, Karpathos can be the perfect place in Greece if yyou’relooking for a relaxing holiday.
Best Things To Do In Karpathos For Villages And Wild Beaches
Thanks to its mountainous landscape, there are several isolated villages, both by the sea and mountains, where you can rent a small house to spend your holiday.
For the same reasons, exotic, lonely beaches are abundant, some of them reachable only by boat, great for a quiet holiday.
Additionally, picturesque white villages and unique trekking paths allow visitors to discover even more of this little Greek gem.
11. Kasos
Lonely and unspoiled, this is one of the quiet Greek islands in the Dodecanese, reasonably close to Karpathos Island.
How To Get To Kasos By Plane Or Ferry
It is possible to reach Kasos by plane via limited domestic services that vary by season and week, typically routing through nearby islands and Crete.
If you prefer to travel by ferry, you can connect from other Dodecanese islands and from Piraeus on the mainland. Total sailing time from Athens varies significantly by route and stops. From Crete (Sitia), crossings are typically around 2–4 hours, depending on the sailing.
Best Things To Do In Kasos For Remote Beaches
The best thing you can do on the island is enjoy the fantastic beaches, most of which are isolated. Indeed, the best beaches on Kasos are those you must visit by boat.
Not far from the island, the small uninhabited islet of Armanthi is home to Marmara, one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches.
Given its proximity to Karpathos, its landscape is relatively similar. Kasos is also rugged and offers ample hiking opportunities to discover unique landscapes, small chapels, and rural villages, where the local cuisine will undoubtedly surprise you.
Where To Stay In Kasos For Simple, Local Stays
Theoxenia Kasos is a family-friendly accommodation in the picturesque Panagia village. The property features flats and studios with kitchens, sitting areas, and free parking for guests. Moreover, the apartments are only a short drive from Kasos Island Public Airport (KSJ).
Another place to stay on Kasos is Villa Evdokia, a traditional home in Arvanitochori with a garden and terrace, ideal for families with children. Guests can enjoy a cozy kitchen with an oven and a washing machine.
12. Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo, a charming and remote Greek island, is one of the best options when looking for a secluded and quiet Greek island to spend your holidays on.
How To Get To Kastellorizo From Rhodes Or Turkey
It is one of the most remote Greek islands; many travelers reach it most easily via Rhodes, while it is also possible to arrive by sea from the Turkish coast. We promise the travel time to this quiet island in Greece will be worth it.
There are direct flights from Rhodes on small aircraft (seat capacity varies by aircraft type) and availability can be limited; flight time is typically around 25 minutes. Ferries departing from Rhodes take about four hours to reach Kastellorizo.
Best Things To Do In Kastellorizo Around The Harbor And Blue Grotto
Kastellorizo is a unique gem in the Dodecanese Islands, just off the Turkish coast.
The island is well known for its spectacular Neoclassical homes and mansions. This distinctive eighteenth-century mosque adorns the harbor area, the Castello Rosso, a medieval castle near the port, and the picturesque fishing village.
During your visit, don’t forget to tour the island by boat to discover the beautiful Blue Grotto and check out some unique coves for swimming and diving.
Where To Stay In Kastellorizo Near The Harbor
Although there are not many accommodations on the island, you can stay at the fantastic Joanna’s Home, only 600 meters from Palaiokastro and a few steps from the port of Megisti. The comfy apartment features a bedroom, a kitchen, and a convenient seating area.
13. Lipsi
A beautiful gem also in the Dodecanese, Lipsi is a tiny & quiet Greek island about one hour from Patmos, known for its spectacular beaches and excellent seafood.
It’s ideal for a relaxing, isolated holiday.
How To Get To Lipsi Via Leros, Patmos, Or Kalymnos
The best way to get to Lipsi is by ferry from Patmos, Leros, or Kalymnos. The fastest option is to fly from Athens to Leros and then take a ferry to Lipsi.
You can also reach Kalymnos or Patmos by ferry and then cross to Lipsi on a short daily boat trip.
Best Things To Do In Lipsi For Slow Days And Beaches
There is not much to do in Lipsi, and that is probably its beauty. The island is small and has a very relaxed vibe.
There are a few spectacular, pristine beaches to enjoy, such as Platys Gialos or Kampos.
If you enjoy exploring, you can look at the lonely churches in the mountains or walk around the village’s romantic alleys.
The small Chora, or main town, right by the port, is a great place to explore during the evening. Nightlife activities are minimal, but charming, with a few colorful tavernas serving traditional Greek food and some ouzeries, that is, bars known for serving Ouzo and appetizers, including the famous octopus cooked on the island.
Where To Stay In Lipsi For A Quiet Family Base
Aegean Muses is a comfortable complex of flats and studios, some with balconies or patios, offering great island views. Since the units also feature a well-equipped kitchen, you can take advantage of the property’s grocery delivery service for guests.
Are you looking for a whole home for you and your family? Then this is the best Greek island for a quiet family holiday. Book Villa Vasiliki, located 100 meters from the beach, also features access to a garden, a private beach area, and room service. A continental breakfast is also available every morning at the villa.
14. Symi
Another Dodecanese island worth a visit is the tiny island of Symi, just a few kilometers from Turkey’s coast. The unique beauty of its port welcomes visitors with an array of colorful Neoclassical buildings and mansions that stand amphitheatrically above the port of Gialos.
The small streets and cobblestone alleys of Symi are ideal for tranquil walks. You’ll be able to discover the village of Chorio, with old-time churches and classic domes, or even enjoy a friendly conversation with a local in one of the small cafés.
The island offers excellent sandy beaches for families, pebbly beaches, and several secluded coves. For more adventurous experiences, the nearby islets of Agia Marina and Nimos are an outstanding opportunity for quality time on your own.
15. Tilos
One more beautiful island in the Dodecanese, Tilos, is a secluded Greek destination, perfect for nature walks, beautiful beaches, and top-quality seafood. This one is a top pick for the non-touristy Greek islands this year.
How To Get To Tilos From Rhodes Or Athens
The island of Tilos can only be reached by ferry, either from the port of Piraeus in Athens or from the island of Rhodes. You can also fly to Rhodes and then catch the ferry to Tilos from there.
Best Things To Do In Tilos For Hiking And Mikro Chorio
Another island where the most remarkable activities for visitors are clinked toits rugged landscapes and hiking trails that offer endless possibilities to explore
One exciting place you can reach while walking on the island’s paths is to pay a visit to Mikro Chorio (a small village). The abandoned town is a mysterious place that offers excellent spots for photography enthusiasts.
Tilos offers many opportunities to discover the island’s diverse flora and fauna, including the curious remains of dwarf elephants that lived there more than 4,000 years ago.
Where To Stay In Tilos Near The Port And Beach
Super convenient and affordable, George Apartments offers excellent value in the small town of Livadia. The place is meters from the port and the beach and offers self-catered accommodation, a dramatic flowered courtyard, and a roof terrace overlooking the Aegean. George Apartments provides a free two-way transfer from the port to its guests.
Quiet Ionian Islands For Green Landscapes And Calm Water
16. Ithaka
Located on the Ionian Sea, Ithaka features green landscapes and beautiful shores and is close to Kefalonia Island.
How To Get To Ithaka Via Kefalonia Or The Mainland
There is no direct travel to Ithaka; the only way toreach ite is by ferry from mainland Greece, Kefalonia, and Lefkada.
If you prefer to travel by plane, the best option is to land on Kefalonia and then reach Ithaca by ferry.
Best Things To Do In Ithaka For Beaches And Vathy
Stroll along the pristine beaches of Ithaka, either sandy or pebbled, with pristine seas and protected by long lines of tall pine trees providing shade and a fresh atmosphere even during the most torrid summer days.
The capital of Ithaka, Vathy, is a panoramic settlement amphitheatrically arranged around a deep bay. This traditional settlement features attractive houses in the island’s classic style and a beautiful cathedral.
The Archaeological Museum in town is also worth visiting if you are interested in art and objects from the Geometric and Mycenaean periods.
Where To Stay In Ithaka In And Around Vathy
Familia is a beautiful place to stay in Vathy. It features a shared lounge, a garden, and comfortable family rooms, a few meters from the port of Ithaka and close to attractions such as the Folklore Museums, the Archaeological Museum, and imposing places like Skinos Beach and Sarakiniko Beach.
17. Kythira
Not far from the coast of eastern Peloponnese, the forgotten island of Kythira is a beautiful and tranquil Greek destination, also quite near to the western coast of Crete.
How To Get To Kythira By Ferry Or Domestic Flight
Kythira is pretty secluded but can be reached by ferry from Neapoli (Peloponnese) and by domestic flights. The best way to get to Kythira is by boat from the port of Neapolis, south of the Peloponnese. Ferry frequency varies by season, and crossings are typically around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Best Things To Do In Kythira For Chora And Calm Beaches
When visiting the island, do not miss a visit to the ancient town, the Chora of Kythira. It is located high on a hill, dominating the island’s landscape. The ancient citadel faces the port and offers unique views of the island.
Besides visiting the old churches, monasteries, and Venetian castle, you can also check out some of Kythira’s most amazing beaches. The most exotic beach with turquoise waters is Diakofti Beach on the island’s northeastern side; it is a fabulous spot for young children because it’s calm and shallow.
Where To Stay In Kythira For Easy Exploring
Abramis Studios is a comfortable home in the village of Mitata; upon request, guests can enjoy a traditional local breakfast, delivered to their door. On the property, there is a beautiful garden and barbecue facilities.
Check out the beautiful Aposperides Hotel in Livadi. The hotel offers accommodation with private balconies and stunning city views. Every morning, the hotel offers a delicious continental breakfast.
18. Paxos
Paxos is a beautiful small gem on the Ionian sea just a few miles from Corfu. Among the most relaxing Greek islands, Paxos seamlessly blends lush landscapes with crystalline waters, offering a peaceful sanctuary away from bustling tourist hubs.
With its enchanting olive grove after olive grove and alluring coves, this small island provides an exquisite backdrop for those seeking a quiet Greek island holiday.
How To Get To Paxos Via Corfu Or Igoumenitsa
Paxos is accessible by ferry from Corfu and Igoumenitsa, making it a secluded yet reachable paradise.
Best Things To Do In Paxos And Antipaxos
Gaios, the island’s captivating capital, is a marvelous Greek village by the sea and a must-visit. Made of small cobblestone alleys and picturesque, colorful houses, it harbors a quaint charm that whispers of leisure and stillness. A beautiful central square is an excellent place for dinner, and the area’s beaches are unique.
For a more exciting experience, you can rent a boat and reach the even smaller Antipaxos Island, home to one of the most stunning turquoise seas in Greece.
The Best Quiet North Aegean Islands
19. Chios
A bit more visited than some of the previous islands, Chios is another North Aegean destination in Greece if you’re looking for solitude and peaceful moments by the sea.
How To Get To Chios By Ferry Or Domestic Flight
You can get to Chios from Athens by ferry departing from the port of Piraeus, and the trips can take up to ten hours. It is also possible to reach Chios from other Greek islands, such as Lesvos, Syros, Mykonos, Ikaria, and Samos.
The island also has a domestic airport, receiving flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, Lemnos, Lesvos, Rhodes, and Samos.
Best Things To Do In Chios For Mastic Villages And History
Chios is among the larger, lesser-known islands in Greece, so “lesser-known” or “less explored” does not necessarily mean smaller. For this reason, renting a car can be a good idea if you intend to explore the island.
Chios is known for the so-called mastic villages, which occupy half of the island, where this unique natural product is found. Pyrgi is one of the best-known mastic villages and a picturesque medieval town to explore.
On the island, you can also enjoy the majestic views of Chios’ windmills and explore antique Byzantine villages, churches, monasteries, medieval castles, and the fortified village of Anavatos.
Where To Stay In Chios For Beaches Or Easy Access
If you are looking for a seafront property, check out Almiriki Hotel. It is located on Lithi Bay in the southwest of Chios. The hotel also has a beachfront and free parking for guests. The venue’s rooms and apartments are decorated in earthy tones, including a minibar, kitchenette, and balcony.
Erytha Hotel & Resort Chios is another good option on the island, with convenient fees and family-friendly facilities.
The hotel is located on the sandy beach of Karfas and features two outdoor swimming pools, a children’s pool, and a private beach. There are also two restaurants serving Mediterranean cuisine and two poolside bars.
20. Lemnos
Lemnos is a North Aegean island not far from the more popular Thassos Island. This is an unspoiled Greek island with some of Greece’s quietest and most varied beaches.
How To Get To Lemnos By Ferry Or Domestic Flight
You can reach Lemnos from Athens by ferry from the port of Lavrio; this trip lasts less than ten hours, while the ferry departing from Piraeus takes a whole day to take you to Lemnos.
The island of Lemnos also has an airport that receives domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as from the famous islands of Ikaria, Chios, Lesvos, Samos, and Rhodes.
Best Things To Do In Lemnos For Beaches And Archaeology
The island offers beaches to suit all tastes; some on the eastern coast of Lemnos are highly recommended for water sports, such as kitesurfing and windsurfing, due to their impressive waves.
History buffs will love exploring the island’s Philoctetes Cave and archaeological sites, including Poliochni, Kaveirio, and Hephaestia; magnificent churches; and Lemnos’ medieval castle.
Where To Stay In Lemnos For Quiet Or Convenience
Marvina is a convenient, comfortable home on Lemnos Island that you can book, accommodating couples and families of four. Although it is not easy to reach from the port (you would need a rental car or a taxi), it is located in an isolated area, ideal for those seeking authentic relaxation.
For a more central place to stay on Lemnos, consider the Ethaleia Hotel. This beachfront property features gorgeous rooms and suites blending antique furnishings, contemporary technology, and stunning views of Moudros Bay.
21. Thassos
Located in the northern Aegean Sea, Thassos is a unique summer destination in Greece. An island with plenty of sunshine throughout the summer, Thassos boasts beautiful beaches where you can enjoy water sports and sample its magnificent local cuisine.
Although the island is not really small, it’s entirely off the beaten track, making it a perfect destination to avoid big crowds this summer.
Quiet Islands Near Athens For A Quick Escape
22. Agistri
A tiny oasis near Athens, Agistri is often regarded as one of the best Greek islands for a quiet holiday, providing an easy escape into tranquility.
Renowned for its lush pine forests juxtaposed against azure waters, it offers scenic trails, splendid beaches, and cozy tavernas, encapsulating the essence of a quiet Greek island experience.
With its proximity to Athens, Agistri is only a short ferry ride away, making it a convenient sanctuary of calm.
Quiet Sporades Islands For Nature And Sea Time
23. Alonissos
This remote northern island, also part of the Sporades group, can be reached from Volos (not far from Athens by car or public transport), where there are daily ferries and hydrofoils to Alonissos.
The perfect environment for those who love close contact with nature: the rugged landscape and the small islands scattered across the archipelago make Alonissos a unique place to enjoy walks through the green pine forests.
But most importantly, Alonissos hosts the National Marine Park of the Northern Sporades, renowned as a natural refuge for dolphins, the Mediterranean monk seal, and a wide variety of rare seabirds.
24. Skiathos
An ideal destination for those who enjoy subaquatic sports, Skiathos is a well-known island in the Sporades, and the best chance of a quieter stay is outside peak periods and away from the busiest resort areas.
This stunning island is part of the Sporades archipelago and features a magnificent green landscape, crystalline coasts, and a fascinating marine ecosystem. Therefore, the island is ideal for snorkeling, immersion, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
25. Skyros
Located in the Sporades, Skyros offers an impressive, relaxing vacation destination featuring small traditional villages, a rugged coastline, and incredibly blue seas.
How To Get To Skyros By Ferry Or Domestic Flight
Ferries to Skyros depart from Evia (Kymi), with daily sailings that vary by season. Alternatively, you can reach Skyros from the bigger Alonissos Island if you travel in the summer.
Reaching Skyros with a domestic flight from Athens or Thessaloniki is also possible. However, you must book a taxi or rent a car as the main village is about 17 km from the airport.
Best Things To Do In Skyros For Beach Days And Hiking
Being a relatively tiny island and certainly entirely off the beaten path, Skyros has little to do, making it the ideal destination for a peaceful stay by the sea.
Skyros is a perfect place for those who love long beach days, with pristine shores for swimming, exploring the seabed, and enjoying traditional seafood at a tranquil tavern by the sea.
The island is a paradise for outdoor activities. You can venture along ancient footpaths that crisscross the island if you enjoy hiking and discovering forgotten churches and picturesque villages, along with stunning sea views.
Where To Stay In Skyros Near The Beach Or Port
Skyros Ammos Hotel is located 60 meters from Magazia Beach and features an outdoor pool with modern sofas and sun loungers on a decked terrace. Inside the hotel, guests will find elegant accommodation with a garden or Aegean Sea view, some with a split-level layout. Their delicious traditional breakfast includes handmade jams, pies, local cheeses, and honey.
Vina Beach Hotel is a fantastic place to stay in Skyros, featuring a 162-m2 pool on its private beach. A well-tended garden with a playground surrounds the family-friendly hotel, while the studios open to a furnished balcony overlooking the pool and the sea.
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Quiet Islands Near Crete For A Wilder Trip
26. Gavdos (Part of Crete)
The unique wilderness of Gavdos Island features spectacular dunes, an extensive collection of lonely beaches, bizarre rock formations, and one-of-a-kind cedar forests that will make you fall in love with the place.
Gavdos is the southernmost point in Europe and can be reached by boat from the southern port of Chora Sfakion on Crete. Even though it is 26 miles by sea from Crete, it is administratively part of the island.
How To Find Quiet Areas On Popular Greek Islands
Although bigger islands such as Rhodes, Corfu, or Crete tend to be very popular Greek destinations, which will make you easily discard them for the risk of encountering overpopulated resorts, the truth is that these places are still ideal for an isolated holiday.
If you still have dreams of a Mykonos or Crete getaway, but want the quiet life once there, these are ways to find it.
Crete
The vast territories of these big islands make it easier for you to find isolated accommodation. For instance, the southern coast of Crete is an ideal destination, with small, often deserted villages, lonely beaches, and limited accommodation.
The same applies to the island’s eastern coast.
Corfu, Ionian Islands
Corfu is another good example: the north of the island offers several villages where it’s possible to rent a small house and enjoy a lovely holiday.
Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands
Regarding Rhodes, the island’s southwestern region features many peaceful spots and enchanting mountain villages.
Naxos, Cyclades Islands
Another reasonably big island you could enjoy is Naxos. It’s a popular destination for summer holidays; there are several picturesque mountain villages where it’s relatively easy to get away from the crowds.
Paros, Cyclades Islands
Paros, the nearby island, offers similar characteristics and can be a good holiday choice to avoid crowded villages. On both islands, it’s possible to find lonely beaches to enjoy.
Mykonos & Santorini, Cyclades Islands
The possibility remains if you’re still planning to visit Mykonos or Santorini. It’s possible to avoid the crowds if you choose strategically where to stay on each of these popular Greek Islands.
For Mykonos, we recommend the northern coast; for Santorini, Vlychada, Baxedes, and Vothonas are good options to avoid crowds.
FAQs
Which Greek islands are the quietest in summer?
Typically, the quietest options are smaller islands with limited flight capacity and fewer day-trippers, such as Anafi, Donousa, Sikinos, Kimolos, Lipsi, Kasos, and Tilos.
What is the easies,t quiet Greek island to reach from Athens?
Agistri is one of the easiest, quiet escapes from Athens, a short ferry ride away. For quieter Cyclades options, Tinos can be straightforward via Rafina or Piraeus, depending on sailing schedules.
Are there quiet Cyclades islands without an airport?
Yes. Several of the quieter Cyclades islands on this list lack airports, including Anafi, Donousa, Folegandros, Kimolos, Sifnos, and Sikinos, so travel is typically by ferry.
Is Skiathos a quiet island?
Skiathos is widely known and can be busy in peak season. Quieter stays are most achievable outside peak dates or by choosing less-developed areas away from the busiest resort zones.
Can you fly to Kasos?
Yes, but flight schedules can be limited and seasonal, and routing often involves nearby islands and Crete rather than frequent daily links to multiple destinations.
Is Lavrio a reliable ferry port for Tinos?
Lavrio does not reliably serve Tinos; most travelers use Rafina or Piraeus for Tinos sailings, depending on route and operator.
What is the quietest Dodecanese island in this list?
Lipsi, Kasos, Tilos, and Kastellorizo are often chosen for a slower pace and fewer crowds compared with the larger Dodecanese islands.
Which quiet Greek islands are best for hiking?
Good hiking-focused picks in this list include Amorgos-adjacent Donousa, rugged Folegandros, mountainous Karpathos, Tilos, Kythira, and Alonissos.
Do these islands have enough amenities for a comfortable stay?
Most have the essentials (accommodation, tavernas, small shops), but smaller islands can have fewer ATMs, limited late-night transport, and fewer accommodation choices, especially outside peak months.
How far is Gavdos from Crete?
Gavdos is reached by boat from southern Crete, and the sea distance from Chora Sfakion is commonly cited at about 26 miles (around 50 km), with schedules varying by season.