Top 10 Greek Islands Worth Getting Off Your Cruise Ship For

Greek Island Must-See’s

1. Santorini is our number one cruise destination in the Med. It has the famous blue-domed churches and local volcanic wines along its dramatic cliff edges.
2. You can explore the medieval Old Town in Rhodes and visit its ancient hilltop ruins.
3. In Crete, you’ll discover Europe’s oldest civilisation at Knossos Palace.
4. Naxos will amaze you with its huge marble gateway, the Portara, whilst
5. Corfu showcases beautiful Venetian buildings throughout its streets.
6. Hydra gives you a peaceful break from the usual tourist spots, with no cars allowed and plenty of walking paths to explore.
7. You’ll love Paros for its traditional villages and white sandy beaches.
8. Symi charms visitors with its colourful harbour houses.
9. Milos boasts unique volcanic landscapes and hidden coves.
10. Limnos rounds off your island-hopping with quiet beaches and ancient sites.

Each island deserves more than a quick stop – especially if you want to try some of the 25 best Mediterranean foods, hop off your cruise ship and take time to uncover their hidden gems.

Paradise Found in Santorini

When you picture Greece, Santorini is probably the first place that springs to mind. Those whitewashed buildings with blue domes perched on dramatic cliffs, all against the sparkling Aegean Sea – it’s postcard-perfect.

Santorini isn’t just about good looks; it’s also the kind of place that pulls you in with its charm, romance, and laid-back vibe.

Why You’ll Love It:

Let’s talk about the sunsets because, honestly, they’re something else. The view from Oia, with the sun sinking into the sea, is like a little slice of magic.

Add to that the local food – fresh seafood, creamy fava dips, and glasses of chilled Assyrtiko wine – and you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even left.

Top Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: If you can, aim for April to October. May and September are ideal because the weather’s lovely, and you’ll dodge the busiest crowds.
• How to Get There: You can fly straight into Santorini International Airport from Athens or some European cities. Alternatively, hop on a ferry from Athens or nearby islands – it’s slower, but the views make it worth it.
• Must-See Attractions: Akrotiri is a fascinating ancient site, like a snapshot of life thousands of years ago. The Red Beach is unique with its reddish cliffs, and if you’re up for a walk, the trail from Fira to Oia gives you those jaw-dropping views at every turn.
• Insider Tip: If you’d rather escape the crowds, skip staying in Oia or Fira and head to Pyrgos. It’s just as charming but way more chilled. Plus, you’ll still get those incredible views.
• You’ll find the best photo spots in Santorini in Oia and Fira, where blue church domes and winding streets create perfect snapshots. The sunsets from Oia’s cliffs will take your breath away.

Unforgettable Rhodes

Rhodes is a bit like stepping into a time machine and landing in paradise.

Between its medieval Old Town, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches, it’s got a little something for everyone. Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets, soaking up the sun, or exploring hidden gems, Rhodes knows how to keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love It:

Walking through the Old Town feels like you’re in a real-life fairytale, and climbing up to the acropolis in Lindos will leave you speechless with those views. Throw in some of Greece’s best beaches, and you’re all set for an unforgettable trip.

Top Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May) or early autumn (September-October) is when the weather’s lovely, and the crowds are manageable.
• How to Get There: Fly into Rhodes International Airport or take a scenic ferry from Athens or nearby islands.
• Must-See Attractions: Wander the Old Town, visit Lindos and its acropolis, swim at Anthony Quinn Bay, explore the Palace of the Grand Master, and check out Monolithos Castle.
• Insider Tip: Hit up Lindos early in the day or later in the afternoon to skip the heat and the crowds. For a quieter beach day, Tsambika Beach is where it’s at – soft sand, calm waters, and way more chilled than the busier spots.

Ancient Mysteries of Crete

Crete is the kind of place that spoils you for choice. It’s Greece’s largest island, so you get a little bit of everything – jaw-dropping beaches, ancient ruins, dramatic gorges, and charming villages. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to unwind by the sea, Crete has something for you.

Why You’ll Love It:

You’ll feel like you’ve landed in a Mediterranean paradise. One day you’re hiking the Samaria Gorge, the next you’re lazing on pink sands at Elafonissi Beach. Add in a plate of Cretan dakos (the local take on bruschetta) and a glass of raki, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.

Top Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are perfect. The weather’s warm, and you won’t have to elbow your way through crowds.
• How to Get There: Fly into either Heraklion or Chania airports, both of which have direct flights from major cities in Europe. You can also hop on a ferry from Athens.
• Must-See Attractions:
  • Elafonissi Beach: Famous for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters – it’s as dreamy as it sounds.
  • Samaria Gorge: A stunning hike through a dramatic canyon, perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Knossos Palace: Dive into Crete’s ancient history with this fascinating Minoan site.
  • Chania Old Town: Wander the colourful streets and soak up the Venetian charm.
  • Rethymno: A mix of old-world charm and beachside vibes you’ll fall in love with.
• Insider Tip: If you want to try real Cretan food, skip the tourist traps and look for small family-run tavernas. They’ll serve up authentic dishes like lamb with stamnagathi (wild greens) that’ll blow your mind. And if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a car – the best spots are off the beaten path.

Hidden Treasures of Naxos

Naxos offers you a remarkable mix of ancient and medieval treasures.

At the Portara, a towering marble doorway, is where Apollo’s temple once stood against the sea. Mount Zas, the Cyclades’ highest peak, watches over the island and holds a cave where, according to myth, Zeus grew up.

You’ll find these three key attractions:

1. The Temple of Demeter welcomes you with its perfectly preserved 6th-century BC Greek architecture.
2. The Kastro quarter lets you wander through winding streets lined with old Venetian houses.
3. The Vallindras Distillery shows you how locals have made their famous spirits for generations.

Extra tips for your visit:

• Start at the Portara during sunset for the best photos.
• Take water and sturdy shoes for Mount Zas walks.
• Book a guided tour of the Kastro to learn the best local stories.

You’ll find everything within easy reach, as Naxos is compact and well-connected by local roads.

Most sites offer year-round access, but spring and autumn bring the most comfortable exploring weather.

Authentic Charm of Paros

Paros, a peaceful Greek island that moves slower than nearby Mykonos and Santorini. You’ll experience authentic Greek life here, away from large tourist crowds.

You can explore the island’s famous marble quarries, which supplied stone for classical sculptures like the Venus de Milo. Walk through Parikia’s white streets, where traditional houses and blue churches create stunning views.

Visit Naoussa, a small fishing village that keeps its original character.

Try local foods that you won’t find elsewhere. Sample gouna, a tasty sun-dried mackerel, and revithada, a warming chickpea stew made the traditional way.

You can get active too – go windsurfing at Golden Beach, try cliff jumping at nearby Antiparos, or take scenic walks along the coastline.

Your visit to Paros lets you see Greece as it used to be, combining relaxation with adventure as you choose. The island offers clear waters, traditional food, and friendly locals who welcome you to their way of life.

Corfu’s Venetian Legacy

Experience Corfu’s unique heritage, where Venetian rule has shaped this Greek island unlike any other. The UNESCO-listed Old Town showcases a blend of Venetian, French and British architecture that sets it apart from typical Greek destinations.

Explore more:

1. The Old Fortress – a massive Venetian structure where you can combine sightseeing and swimming. The fortress offers clear views of its towers and defensive walls, built by leading Venetian military architects.
2. The Campiello district – walk through its narrow streets and visit the Spianada, which stands as the largest square in the Balkans. These historic areas maintain their artistic character from centuries past.
3. Rural Corfu – venture into the countryside to find stone villas and grand estates surrounded by olive trees. You’ll see stunning Mediterranean vistas and experience authentic island culture.

This island’s architecture tells the story of its mixed heritage, giving you a different Greek island experience that combines Italian elegance with Greek warmth.

Pristine Symi

Three standout features on Symi: neoclassical mansions in rainbow colours, clear waters, and naval history. This Greek island sits 41 kilometres northwest of Rhodes, where you’ll spot protected houses in reds, yellows, and blues dotting the hillsides.

• You can reach most of Symi’s beaches only by boat, letting you enjoy their unspoilt beauty.
• The Naval Museum tells the story of the island’s sponge-fishing heritage, whilst the Panormitis Monastery stands proudly at the southern end.
• You’ll enjoy cultural events at the Symi Festival between July and September, with local music, plays and dancing on display.
• Make sure you try the island’s famous Symi Shrimp during your visit.

Mythical Milos

Milos has a unique landscape created by ancient volcanic activity. The island’s Sarakiniko Beach features amazing white cliffs resembling a lunar surface, whilst Kleftiko Bay presents dramatic rock formations rising from blue waters.

Key activities on Milos:

1. Book a boat trip to discover:
   • Hidden sea caves
   • Private swimming locations
   • The open-roofed Sykia Cave
2. Visit Plaka village to:
   • Walk through narrow white streets
   • Watch stunning Aegean sunsets
   • Experience local Greek culture
3. Explore seaside villages:
   • Klima’s colourful boat houses
   • Mandrakia’s painted waterfront
   • Traditional fishing communities

Travel tips:

• You can reach Milos by ferry from Athens or Santorini
• You’ll need to rent a vehicle to visit all sites
• The best swimming spots require boat access

This island combines natural wonders with authentic Greek village life, making it different from typical Mediterranean destinations.

Car-Free Haven Hydra

Hydra welcomes you to a peaceful Greek island where cars, motorbikes and scooters don’t exist. You’ll walk everywhere on the island’s charming paths, discovering beautiful mansions and traditional houses around the harbour.

The island holds rich cultural history – famous artists like Picasso and Chagall created works here, whilst naval commanders made it their base. You can visit the modern DESTE Foundation art space, housed in an old slaughterhouse, or relax at waterfront spots like Periptero and Spilia.

• You’ll get the best views by walking up to the Prophet Elias monastery or climbing Mount Eros, which reaches 1,936 feet.
• The 1,966 locals keep their traditions alive through fishing, making honey and harvesting olives.
• You’ll find all modern comforts on the island, while cultural events happen every month throughout the year.
• The mix of old-world charm and modern convenience makes Hydra perfect for your peaceful getaway.
• You can easily explore the whole island on foot, meeting friendly locals and enjoying the car-free tranquility that makes this place special.

Untamed Beauty of Limnos

Limnos welcomes you with its raw beauty in the northern Aegean Sea. The island combines volcanic landscapes with quiet beaches and rich history.

Explore

• Poliochni – Europe’s earliest settlements
• Myrina Castle – offering panoramic sea views
• Faraklo Park – home to unique volcanic formations
• Gomati Beach – known for its distinctive rock shapes

Your historical journey includes:

• The ancient Cabires Sanctuary
• Hephaestia ruins
• Local food tastings: try flomaria pasta
• Limnian wine sampling

Your nature experiences await at:

• Aliki Lake – perfect for bird watching
• Chortarolimni – a migratory bird haven
• Keros Beach – ideal for kitesurfing

Tips for your visit:

• Pack comfortable walking shoes for castle visits
• Bring a camera for the volcanic landscapes
• Visit beaches early morning for the best light
• Try water sports at Keros in the afternoon

You’ll find Limnos less crowded than other Greek islands, giving you space to explore at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Time of Year to Avoid Cruise Ship Crowds?

The best times to cruise with fewer crowds are during the ‘shoulder seasons’ – April, early May, September and October. You’ll enjoy milder weather and lower prices during these months. Most tourist attractions stay open but welcome fewer visitors, giving you more space to explore. Your cruise experience will be more relaxed, and you’ll save money on your booking too.

Note: ‘Shoulder seasons’ refer to the periods between peak and off-peak travel times. These months sit between the busiest summer holidays and quieter winter months.

Are Tender Boats Required to Reach Any of These Island Ports?

You’ll need tender boats at specific Greek island ports:

• Santorini and Patmos always use tender boats
• Mykonos, Kefalonia and Lesvos sometimes use tender boats
• Athens and Rhodes offer direct docking for cruise ships

These arrangements depend on your cruise line and seasonal port conditions. You can check your specific itinerary details with your cruise operator.

How Long Should I Plan for Transportation Between Cruise Port and Attractions?

You should plan 60 minutes each way when travelling between cruise ports and city attractions. Book taxis or transport in advance to avoid delays. Check your tender’s last departure time and set reminders for your return journey. Popular transport options like cable cars may have long queues, so add 30 minutes to your journey time for these. Keep your ship’s emergency contact number handy whilst exploring.

Which Islands Offer the Best Local Food Markets Near Cruise Ports?

You’ll discover excellent food markets near cruise ports across several Greek islands.

• Santorini’s Fira market sits just minutes from the port, offering local produce and traditional treats.
• Crete welcomes you with Chania Old Town’s bustling market stalls, where you can sample regional specialities.
• Mykonos features waterfront markets packed with fresh seafood and island delicacies.
• Rhodes Old Town hosts traditional markets where you can browse local ingredients and ready-to-eat Greek dishes.

Can You Book Independent Tours Instead of Cruise-Organized Excursions?

You can book independent tours as alternatives to cruise-organised excursions. Local tour operators offer flexible, personalised experiences at lower costs. They collect you directly from your cruise terminal. Independent tours give you more control over your schedule and group size. You’ll often experience more authentic local interactions compared to large cruise groups.