Greece continues to dominate as a European summer travel destination. In 2024 alone, over 40 million people visited the Mediterranean country, according to the Greek government, with higher figures expected in 2025.
With that being said, the team at Iglu Cruise have predicted which Greek islands will be the most popular this summer for holidaymakers, by comparing Google Trends search data over the past 12 months.
Over 40 of the most popular Greek islands were used in the data, with the following 10 Greek islands having the highest increase in year-on-year search volume. Iglu Cruise also included some hidden treasures and must-do activities for each island on the list.
Additionally, the team have highlighted five lesser-known Greek islands for those looking for something off the beaten track.
1. Paros
Yearly increase in search data: 283%
Claiming the top spot for search growth, Paros has quietly transformed into one of Greece’s most desirable island destinations. Famous for its beautiful beaches, traditional white buildings and its high-quality marble used to sculpt iconic works like the Venus de Milo, Paros is easily becoming a top competitor of Mykonos. Add in windsurfing at Golden Beach and hidden mountain villages like Lefkés, and you’ve got an island that truly has it all.
Hidden Treasure: Butterfly Valley – A peaceful nature reserve that, in the summer months, is abundant with butterflies.
Must Do: Take a day trip to Antiparos, just minutes away by ferry, for sea caves, relaxed beach bars and that traditional Greek vibe.
2. Skiathos
Yearly increase in search data: 110%
The island with the second-highest percentage increase in searches is Skiathos, popular for its lush, green pine forests which cover nearly two-thirds of the island. The crystal-clear coastline is backed by pine forests, making this island particularly unique. With over 60 beaches, whilst also boasting a lively hub in Skiathos Town, it’s not surprising that Skiathos is second in search surges.
Hidden Treasure: Monastery of Evangelistria – A lesser-known but significant historical site, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Must Do: Hop on a boat tour around the island, stopping at hidden beaches and sea caves only accessible by water.
3. Mykonos
Yearly increase in search data: 108%
Ranking third in search growth, Mykonos is often regarded as Greece’s party island, famed for having an abundance of bars and luxury resorts. Mykonos Town has maze-like streets that are home to chic boutiques and seaside restaurants, with the island’s iconic windmills never far from view and Little Venice is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Venture inland or to the north, and you’ll discover a more authentic side, whitewashed chapels, quiet farms and rustic tavernas.
Hidden Treasure: Fokos Beach – A wild, unspoiled bay with no sunbeds, no bars, just natural beauty and peaceful waves.
Must Do: Take a day trip to Delos, once considered “the most sacred” island and a UNESCO archaeological site.
4. Santorini
Yearly increase in search data: 89%
At number four in search growth, Santorini is famed for its Greek island beauty. Instantly recognisable for its cliffside whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches and jaw-dropping caldera views, this Cycladic gem offers a blend of dramatic views and upscale elegance that continues to captivate travellers worldwide. Beyond the blue domes and iconic sunsets, there are award-winning wineries and black-sand beaches.
Hidden Treasure: Pyrgos Village – A charming hilltop village with panoramic island views, traditional architecture and fewer tourists.
Must Do: Take a hike from Fira to Oia for an unforgettable sunset experience.
5. Crete
Yearly increase in search data: 55%
As the fifth island in search growth, Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and offers everything from ancient Minoan palaces to exotic beaches and rugged mountain gorges. Crete is also a haven for food lovers, with Dakos Salad hailing from the island and Raki being a popular traditional drink to try. Not only is it packed full of history, having hosted Europe’s oldest civilisation, it is also home to what has been crowned the best beach in the world by Tripadvisor, Elafonissi.
Hidden Treasure: Loutro – A tiny, car-free fishing village on the south coast, accessible only by boat or on foot, with emerald green waters and a relaxing ambience.
Must Do: Hike the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most dramatic canyon treks.
6. Rhodes
Yearly increase in search data: 53%
Sitting sixth in search growth, Rhodes is where ancient history, medieval charm and beach holidays collide. Historically significant as the former site of the Colossus of Rhodes, a colossal statue of 30 meters tall of the Greek Sun God Helios and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the island’s past is profound. Rhodes Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, where knights once roamed and cobbled streets wind through stone archways and fortress walls. Beyond the old-world atmosphere, Rhodes also boasts over 40 beaches, ranging from party-ready Faliraki to family-friendly Tsambika.
Hidden Treasure: Monolithos Castle – A beautiful ruin perched high above the sea, with dramatic sunset views.
Must Do: Visit the Acropolis of Lindos – a popular historic site with sea views over the beautiful village of Lindos.
7. Corfu
Yearly increase in search data: 52%
At number seven for increased search interest is Corfu, an island that has strong Venetian, French and British influences, all visible in the architecture of Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Beyond the capital, Corfu is a tapestry of cypress-dotted hills, olive groves and hidden bays. Adventurers and sun-seekers alike can find their own slice of paradise, from water sports in Dassia to the tranquil beauty of Paloekastritsa’s emerald waters.
Hidden Treasure: Porto Timoni – A double beach reached by hike or boat near Afionas, with turquoise waters and panoramic views.
Must Do: Visit the beautiful area of Kanoni, where you can also watch planes take off and land at Corfu airport.
8. Kefalonia
Yearly increase in search data: 44%
Coming in at number eight for search growth, Kefalonia is the Ionian island that often feels like Greece’s best-kept secret. Famed for its magical underground lake in Melissani Cave and dramatic limestone cliffs, the island is a haven for nature lovers. Kefalonia is also home to Myrtos Beach, one of the most photographed stretches of sand in Greece. The capital Argostoli blends local charm with low-key sophistication, while nearby village Fiscardo brings postcard perfection with pastel houses and waterfront tavernas.
Hidden Treasure: Assos Village – A quiet, flower-filled, colourful hamlet with Venetian ruins and peaceful coves.
Must Do: Explore Melissani Cave by boat – ideally around midday when sunlight streams in and the water glows bright blue.
9. Kos
Yearly increase in search data: 26%
Ranking ninth in search growth, Kos is quietly rising as a top contender and is famed as the birthplace of the “Father of Medicine”, Hippocrates. Beyond the history, Kos offers long stretches of golden sand and laid-back resorts ideal for a Greek island escape. Therma Beach is a hot spot, known for its natural hot springs and healing properties. The island’s capital, Kos Town, buzzes with marina cafes and a cosmopolitan feel.
Hidden Treasure: Palio Pyli – A crumbling medieval village and castle ruins nestled in the hills with panoramic views.
Must Do: Cycle along the Kos Town coastal path, a bike-friendly route that takes you past ruins, beaches and harbourfront cafes.
10. Zante
Year increase in search data: 13%
Although it sits at number ten for search growth, Zante (Zakynthos) remains a firm favourite for good reason. One of the seven Ionian Islands, Zante blends breathtaking natural beauty with a lively atmosphere, making it ideal for both explorers and sun-seekers. Famous for its Blue Caves, the dramatic shipwreck cove of Navagio Beach and as a key nesting ground for loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), the island continues to surprise beyond its postcard-perfect beaches.
For those looking to dance the night away, Laganas offers a buzzy nightlife scene with beach clubs and late-night bars. Meanwhile, Kalamaki Beach delivers a gentler pace, golden sands, shallow waters and the chance to spot turtle nests if you visit at the right time.
Hidden Treasure: Korakonissi – A secluded rocky cove with a natural sea arch, ideal for cliff diving and swimming.
Must Do: Marathonisi Island – Where you can spot loggerhead turtles, especially in nesting season.
Top 5 Underrated Greek Islands to Watch
Beyond the heavy hitters, a new wave of lesser-known Greek islands are capturing the curiosity of travellers in 2025. Experience the authentic charm of the Mediterranean, with fewer crowds and at a slower pace.
1. Karpathos: A Slice of Authentic Greece
Beyond the well-trodden paths of Santorini and Mykonos lies Karpathos, the second-largest island in the Dodecanese archipelago that offers a captivating glimpse into authentic Greek life. Unlike its more cosmopolitan neighbours, Karpathos has guarded its traditions, offering visitors a truly immersive experience where time seems to slow down.
How to get to Karpathos: You can travel to Karpathos by plane, with direct flights available from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Karpathos Island National Airport (AOK). During the peak summer season, there are also direct charter flights from several European cities. There are also regular ferry services that connect Karpathos with Piraeus Port in Athens, offering an overnight journey as well as frequent ferries from Rhodes, Crete and Santorini.
2. Milos – The Volcanic Wonder
Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, Milos is famous for its lunar-like Sarakiniko Beach with its white volcanic rock formations carved by wind and sea. Beyond its lunar shores, there are colourful fishing villages like Klima and beaches in abundance. With much fewer crowds than Santorini, it’s fast becoming the go-to for couples, photographers, and those after something raw and beautiful.
How to get to Milos: The most convenient way to reach Milos is a flight from Athens (ATH) to Milos Island International Airport (MLO) but there are also ferries from Piraeus (Athens), Santorini, Mykonos (via a connecting ferry from Paros or Naxos), Sifnos, Serifos, Folegandros, and Kimolos.
3. Folegandros – The Natural Beauty
Often overshadowed by its Cycladic neighbours, Folegandros offers a refreshing escape for travellers seeking an authentic Greek island experience. Its main town, Chora, is a picturesque village perched high on a clifftop, featuring whitewashed houses, charming bougainvillaea-draped alleyways, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs, Folegandros remains relatively untouched by international tourists.
How to get to Folegandros: While not directly accessible by air, Folegandros can be reached by ferry from several major Greek islands. The most common routes are from Santorini, Milos, and Paros, with services running multiple times a week during peak season.
4. Tinos – For Art, Architecture & Authenticity
A Cycladic island frequently skipped in favour of nearby Mykonos, Tinos is a dream for creatives and slow-paced travellers. With its marble villages, spiritual landmarks and rising food scene, it’s quickly becoming Greece’s answer to “understated luxury”.
How to get to Tinos: There are ferries from Athens (Piraeus and Rafina ports) which typically take 2-5 hours, but routes from Mykonos often take as little as 15-30 minutes by high-speed ferry. There are also ferries from Naxos, Paros, Syros and Santorini.
5. Andros – Wild, Windy & Untouched
One of the greenest Cycladic islands, Andros is a hiker’s paradise dotted with waterfalls, sparkling turquoise waters and a plethora of olive groves. Traditional villages, with their whitewashed houses and charming squares, invite visitors to step back in time. Andros is far removed from the hubbub of mass tourism.
How to get to Andros: A ferry from Rafina (Athens) is by far the most popular and convenient way to get to Andros, and it typically takes 1.5-2 hours.
Whether travellers seek the energy of a trending destination or the tranquil escape of a hidden gem, the Greek islands consistently emerge as a top choice, reaffirming their timeless charm in the ever-evolving world of tourism.
