The most popular Greek islands for 2023

As we're getting ready to welcome 2024 into our lives, let’s take a trip down memory lane. How has 2023 treated you so far? Despite the expected ups and downs, remember that we will always have the Greek Islands to sweep our worries away!

From the verdant Ionian islands to the diverse islands of the Dodecanese and the all-time-classic Cycladic archipelago, the Greek islands have once again delivered when it comes to creating precious memories! So, are you ready to find out which Greek islands made it to the top-visited list for 2023?

Our favorite hatchway-interrupted Aegean Sea photo for 2023

Which are the most visited Greek islands for 2023?

While we’re still waiting for the beautiful islands of Oinousses and Psara (which you probably haven’t heard about) to make the list, the most popular Greek islands for 2023 come as no surprise!

However, it’s a good reminder that some islands in Greece will always find a way into our hearts. So, let's see the most popular Greek islands for the past year.

Yes, it’s me, Santorini

Santorini is famous worldwide, and there’s a reason or two. The volcanic island is one of the prettiest in the Cyclades and its unique morphology attracts millions of people every year.

Vacation in Santorini is all about walking in Oia for amazing photos with a white-and-blue background, exploring the exceptional Prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri that was covered in lava, spending hours on beaches of volcanic origin and trying delicious food in Pyrgos!

The quaint port of Fira in Santorini

Crete from east to west

The largest island in Greece always makes it to the list! Crete offers a plethora of experiences both for travelers who are after city breaks with all modern amenities, as well as those of you who prefer the easy-going way of life found in its remote villages.

In 2023, we once again visited Crete to explore the Gorge of Samaria, one of the most ecologically important in Europe, eat like never before in Chania, swim at the beaches of Matala, Balos, and Elafonisi, and drink intoxicating (and at times free) raki!

The islet of Spinalonga and the village of Plaka in Crete

I got Paros on my mind

Whether you partied in Naoussa, relaxed at Parikia or traveled to Paros just to make the ferry crossing to Antiparos, one thing is certain: Paros is for everyone! This is why it’s one of the most popular Greek islands for 2023 and for every year before and after this one.

Truth is though, we know exactly what you did last summer in Paros: swimming at the pretty Kolymbithres beach, visiting the Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church, going on a day trip to Lefkes and partying hard at Punda Beach Bar. Did we get 4 out of 4?

The magical Kolymbithres beach in Paros

The Naxos hot potato

This is an actual potato we're talking about: the famous potato of Naxos found in all restaurants on the island is cooked in many different ways. But apart from the potatoes, there’s much more to see and do in Naxos. This is why it’s been one of the most popular islands in Greece for so many years in a row.

Travelers enjoy windsurfing at Mikri Vigla beach, they take amazing photos at “Portara” which dates long back in time, and go on trips to the beautiful village of Apeiranthos.

Tip: don't miss the “Potato Festival of Naxos” which takes place on the island every September.

Traditional Cycladic house with a beautiful garden in Naxos

Mykonooooooo -oh god, not again- ooooos

This is how this goes: “Hey guys, how about we go on a trip to Greece this summer? I’m thinking beautiful villages, all-day partying, sandy beaches and delicious food. Any ideas?”. Actually, there are many Greek islands that match this description, but they have nothing on Mykonos!

The intense nightlife, delicious cocktails, and luxury accommodations of Mykonos make the island one of our favorites, but this is just for starters! In Mykonos, you can try water sports at Kalafatis, taste the delicious kopanisti cheese at the tavernes, attend local festivals, and take the boat to the islet of Delos. The must-dos of Mykonos are endless!

Restaurant with a stunning view of the windmills of Mykonos

Break the law in Milos

There’s an urban myth going around that couples visiting Milos will surely break up within weeks. Well, we checked with our super savvy Customer Support Team and no one broke up after visiting the island in 2023 (at least not because of the island).

Here’s what they did instead: splashed around the beaches of Kleftiko and Sarakiniko, tried flaounes and the delicious pitarakia and made everyone on Instagram jealous by taking photos at the village of Mandrakia, where the famous syrmata are (check it out)!

Lunar-like rock formations at Sarakiniko beach in Milos

Say hi to the peanut-buttery Aegina

Somewhere in the Saronic Gulf and only 1 hour from Athens, you get to taste the most divine peanut praline. You will find it inside a crepe or as a topping on a vanilla ice cream scoop near the spicy odors and the heady fragrance of fresh lemons in the floating markets of Aegina.

However, the island isn't just about strong flavors. A weekend getaway in Aegina (or more) is exactly what you need as Aegina has everything from artistic corners, and architectural gems to amazing hiking trails, and paradisiacal beaches.

While there, take a long walk through the famous artists' path to see the house of Nikos Kazantzakis and say goodbye to the beautiful island of the Saronic Gulf by taking some last photos in the Temple of Aphaia with stunning views in the background. 

The imposing Temple of Aphaia in Aegina

Sending a postcard from Syros

The island of Syros, may not boast Santorini's global fame, but it has its own allure. Thus, for another year it managed to enter the list of the most popular Greek islands. How did it happen... again?

The answer is simple! Syros offers a delightful mix of authenticity and tranquility. From the enchanting beach of Agathopes and the crystal clear waters of Mega Gialos to the picturesque alleys of Ano Syros, the island has something for everyone!

If you didn't have the chance to visit Syros in 2023, then you should add it to your bucket list for 2024! Its impressive Town Hall in Miaouli Square and the Archaeological Museum are worth exploring while the local delicacies such as halvadopita and loukoumia are waiting for you to try them.

The view from the Asteria beach at the port town of Ermoupoli

Live your miracle in Tinos

Yes, you got that right! Tinos is famous for its religious significance with a thousand believers visiting the island every year. However, the wonder of Tinos isn't only the miraculous Holy Church of the Virgin Mary (Panagia of Tinos). 

It is no secret that Tinos won everyone's hearts in 2023 with its finger-licking local dairy products like kopanisti and kariki, the authentic hospitality of its charming villages, and the heavenly beaches of Kolymbithra and Pachia Ammos. And it is definitely ready to mesmerize you next year. So, are you ready for a miracle in 2024?

Traditional house in the village of Pyrgos in Tinos 

On Ferryhopper, you can book cheap ferry tickets to the islands of the list and many more destinations easily and quickly. Check our Map of ferries, read our blog for inspiration and useful tips, and start dreaming of summer 2024!