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Eight Greek Islands You May Not Have Heard Of – For Crowd-Free Travel in 2026
There is no such thing as a 'bad' Greek island, but if you aim to avoid the bustling crowds, these lesser-traveled destinations provide idyllic beaches and breathtaking views. While famous spots like Mykonos and Santorini offer incredible rewards, they often come with the caveat of congestion. In contrast, numerous hidden gems across Greece deliver the same charm without the hustle.
Discovering the Cyclades and Beyond
In the Cyclades archipelago, you will find islands with monasteries perched on cliff sides, fairytale villages known mainly to Italians and French visitors, and foodie havens that are the birthplaces of influential chefs. Our round-up also includes a car-free island just ninety minutes by ferry from Athens, a Sporades gem with wildlife-rich waters protected by a vast national marine park, and an Ionian hideaway where beaches are shared with only a handful of people.
These eight exciting lesser-known Greek islands are ideal for visits in 2026, each featuring a standout place to stay. Some require a bit of determination to reach, but that effort adds to the adventure and helps keep the crowds at bay.
1. Amorgos, Cyclades
Amorgos served as the filming location for Luc Besson's hit movie The Big Blue, yet it remains relatively off the radar. With no airport and direct high-speed ferries from Piraeus taking up to seven hours, this island rewards those willing to make the journey. Shaped like a seahorse, Amorgos is home to the dramatically positioned Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery, perched 1,000 feet on a cliff side. Visitors can enjoy spectacular drives, maze-like lanes in Chora, secluded beaches, and fresh Greek salads at T'Apanemo restaurant.
2. Alonissos, Sporades
Alonissos boasts unspoiled beauty with its waters protected by the National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades, Europe's largest marine reserve. Boat trips here offer chances to spot Mediterranean monk seals, dolphins, sea turtles, and Eleonora's falcons. The island features inviting beaches and the beautiful village of Chora, perfect for sunset views. Top seafood and authentic hospitality await at Dimitris Restaurant in Patitiri port.
3. Astypalaia, Dodecanese
Butterfly-shaped Astypalaia provides a true escape from tourist-heavy areas, with blissfully empty beaches and dreamy meadows. Key sights include the hilltop Querini Castle, a Venetian fortress from the 13th century, and the excellent Archaeological Museum. For a memorable dinner, visit taverna Karatzi in Chora.
4. Ithaca, Ionian Islands
Nestled between Kefalonia and the mainland, Ithaca offers a gloriously off-the-beaten-track feel with sufficient infrastructure. Hiring a small car allows exploration of quaint villages and winding roads leading to sparsely populated beaches. Renting a boat in Vathy reveals beautiful inlets along the east coast, while the harbor village of Frikes offers excellent tavernas and secluded swimming spots.
5. Hydra, Saronic Gulf
Hydra is a car-free island, making it safe for families and peaceful for all visitors. Mules transport luggage, and water taxis provide thrilling exploration of coves. The only settlement, Hydra port, is postcard-perfect with chic shops and excellent restaurants like Omilos, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd.
6. Folegandros, Cyclades
Folegandros is worth visiting for its main village, Chora, perched on a 650-foot cliff with a zig-zagging path to the Church of Panagia. The island requires determination to reach, with no airport and ferry crossings up to six hours from Athens. Secluded beaches like Katergo and Agali are accessible via stone paths, and rustic tavernas such as Chrysospilia offer candlelit dining.
7. Paros, Cyclades
Paros is rising in popularity but remains on the fringes of mass tourism, offering plenty of space on beaches like Golden Beach and in villages such as fairytale-cute Lefkes. The seaside village of Aliki features tavernas with tables on the beach, while Naoussa on the north coast has boutique shops in labyrinthine lanes.
8. Sifnos, Cyclades
Sifnos is a foodie heaven, being the birthplace of Greece's most influential chef, Nikolaos Tselementes. Enjoy local dishes like clay-pot revithada and honey-soaked desserts at spots like Omega 3 restaurant. The island also offers historic footpaths linking beaches and villages, with around 360 churches, including the photogenic Moni Chrysopigi on an islet.
These hidden Greek islands promise serene and unforgettable travel experiences in 2026, away from the usual tourist trails.
