15 Quiet Greek Islands 2025: Escape The Crowds This Summer
Quiet Greek islands are not always the easiest to come by. Greece really does have it all, and tourists flock here in their masses to find the perfect beach, watch the most beautiful sunsets and dine out on delicious food.
But if it’s a quiet Greek island you’re looking for that’s away from the crowds and a little more ‘off the beaten track’ then you’re going to have to do a little searching, and hopefully, this article will make that search a whole lot easier!
After 5 years of island hopping in Greece, I am pleased to inform you that it is possible to find quiet Greek islands and that the extra hassle will be well worth it.
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I’ve split the islands into four categories – the Ionian, the Peloponnese, the Dodecanese, and the Cyclades. It’s hard to find quiet Greek islands in the Sporadic Gulf due to their proximity to Athens, and honestly, we found them all way too crowded to properly enjoy.
Because there are fewer inhabited islands in the Peloponnese I’ve included a few beautiful but quiet mainland spots with all the feels of Greek island life.
And while you’re doing your research, why not get yourself in the mood for your vacation with these awesome quotes about Greece?
Quick Guide To The Quiet Greek Islands
Quiet Greek Islands In The Ionian
The Ionian is one of the busiest places in Greece and it’s easy to see why. This glorious Greek holiday destination is dotted with the most beautiful islands, all within a stone’s throw (or at least a short ferry ride) of one another.
If you’re prepared to visit Greece during the off-season then you’ll find cooler weather and escape the crowds. But the compromise is that things do shut down for the winter months, so there will be less things to do and you might get some rain.
If it’s crystal clear waters, good predictable weather, and impressive scenery you’re after then this is the place to head.
It’s tricky to find unspoiled Greek islands here but it is possible if you’re determined enough!
#1 Paxos
If you’ve had your eye on visiting Corfu but the crowds are putting you off, then you might want to consider the island of Paxos instead.
Close to its much bigger neighbor, Paxos is one of the most beautiful Greek islands we’ve ever visited, and we were amazed it wasn’t much, much busier.
There are a few larger towns here that cater to tourists, but we would recommend a stay in Lakka. The town surrounds a large, protected basin and the waters here are unbelievable. Honestly, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the shades of blue.
The town itself is super cute, with a good range of taverns and some tourist boutique shops. There are some great walks from here if you aren’t too put off by the summer heat and all of them have fantastic views.
But the main attraction really is that water. Head to the little beach near the town asap and dive right in.
If it’s easier to stay on Corfu with its transport links and a wider range of hotels, then you can visit as a day trip and still get to experience this incredible island. You’ll also have the chance to visit the even more remote island of Antipaxos, which is arguably even more beautiful!
Where to stay in Paxos
LIvadi Studios
Just a 7-minute walk from Charami Beach, LIvadi Studios is the perfect place to stay in Lakka. It has a swimming pool and a garden to enjoy breakfast outside, and the interior is decorated in a modern but homely way.
They can also help you to arrange car hire so you can explore more of the island.
Lakka Views
This spacious apartment is dreamy. With views and a balcony overlooking the bay you won’t have to miss a single second of the incredible blue water. It’s minutes away from the beach and close to town and all of the family-run restaurants.
#2 The Authentic Greek Island Of Kastos
Probably our top Ionian island for its tranquillity, this place can only be reached by a twice-daily ferry from the mainland or private boat. That makes it a pretty untouched island with only a handful of tourists, most of that have arrived via sailboat.
The main (only) town is small but pretty, with a tiny harbour for the fishing boats that supply the few restaurants with the daily catch.
One of the main attractions here is the windmill bar with fantastic views out to sea and of course the incredible little bays that you’re likely to have all to yourself.
To find out more about Kastos, how to get there, and where to stay head here!
#2 Secluded Meganisi Island In Greece
Meganisi is still a pretty popular island in the Ionian, but it is very possible to find quiet spots if it’s peace you’re after. The great thing about this option is that you can have the best of both worlds, as most of Meganisi is walkable.
You can have a quiet day relaxing on an unspoiled beach and then head into town for evening drinks with a little more going on. It’s also really easy to get there by ferry from Nidri or Ithaki.
Meganisi has some great walking routes either inland to pretty Greek villages rarely visited by tourists or along coastal paths with views out to sea.
For real peace and quiet consider staying near the village of Katomeri. It is the definition of a Greek village, with men sat out watching the world go by and women laughing with each other in doorways. There is a small convenience store with all the basic essentials.
Where To Stay In Meganisi
Melissa Stone Houses is situated just outside this village the perfect place for a secluded retreat that still has access to the main town of Vathy and numerous secluded bays and pretty beaches. It also has views to die for!
If you’re keen on staying closer to the action (and by action we mean a choice of restaurants and a bustling harbour – we’re hardly talking city life here!) then stay in Villa Lydia set back a little from the harbour so that you have fantastic views, a little peace and easy access to all the fun of Vathy Bay town.
#3 The Laid-Back Greek Island Of Ithaka
When heading to this area most people book to stay on popular Kephalonia, one of our favourite holiday destinations in Greece and with the crowds to go with.
However, if you’re prepared to put in a little more effort to get there (in the form of a short ferry ride) you’ll find you can beat a lot of the crowds on the Greek island of Ithaka.
We visited both Vathy and Kioni and fell in love with Kioni the most, though both are beautiful Greek towns full of tempting restaurants and artisan shops. In Kioni you’ll find a lovely walk up to three abandoned windmills, and lots of other walking trails listed on the large map in the town centre.
Where To Stay On Ithaka
Val di Compare is ideal for those seeking tranquillity amongst nature. Situation up in the hills and away from it all but with all the modern amenities to make your stay comfortable.
Another secluded villa to consider is Ithaki Houses. Only half an hour’s downhill walk from Vathy town, this is a great option for those wanting to dine out in the evenings.
Quiet Greek Islands In The Peloponnese
The Peloponnese is possibly our favourite destination in all of Greece for the simple reason that it is one of the quietest areas we visited (that, and the fact it’s absolutely beautiful!)
There aren’t as many islands here as elsewhere in Greece but we think it would be criminal for it not to be considered the perfect secluded Greek getaway.
Think castle-topped towns, stunning rugged coastlines, and plenty of hiking opportunities. The Peloponnese is an ideal quiet Greek holiday destination.
#4 Kythira
At the tip of the Peloponnese, Kythira is far enough from the main airports to make it inconvenient for the masses. Instead, it draws just a few Greek holidaymakers and some private boat owners, making it even more beautiful and special.
Its white-washed houses and streets that tumble down the hillside are dotted with pretty little cafes and restaurants, and the views from the mountains are incredible.
We stayed near Kalamos village and loved the hilltop castle and the views out to Anti Kythira.
To get here, you can take a domestic flight, but the easiest way is by ferry. The normal ferry to Kythira departs from Neapolis in southern Peloponnese 2-3 times per day.
The trip takes about 2 hours and arrives at the port of Diakofti in Kythira. There is also a ferry to Kythira from Gythio in Peloponnese and Kissamos in western Crete in summer.
Recently there has also been a direct ferry to Kythira from Piraeus port, the main port of Athens, once per week. This ferry follows the route from Piraeus to Monemvasia, Kythira, and Kissamos in Crete. Although this hasn’t bought the crowds in yet, you’d be wise to get in a visit before it does!
Where To Stay On Kythira
If you’re looking for places to stay then Vilana Studios in Kalamos village is perfect for anyone seeking some peace and quiet in Greece. Kalamos village itself is just beautiful.
When we visited in August there were barely any tourists and it had a tranquil and remote feel. The views here are incredible and the castle is well worth a visit.
Stella’s Houses is a great option if you want to be close to the town but still have to quiet you’ve come to find! It’s set up the hill a little way, giving it both excellent views and refreshing breeze during those hot Greek summers.
#5 Koroni
Technically not an island but with all the feels of one. Koroni is one of Greece’s ‘castle towns’, with a fort on top of the hill that overlooks the sea. It’s stunning here, and seemingly unvisited by the mobs that usually descend upon Greece in the summer months.
We got the impression it was a popular holiday destination for Greeks. The town was more like a village, with just one main street selling a few pretty bits of pottery and artwork and a scattering of Greek restaurants along the waterfront.
To find out more about Koroni check out this detailed guide.
#6 Kyparissi
Sailing into Kyparissi felt a little like sailing into Switzerland. With a backdrop of incredible mountains and surrounded by lake-like seawater, this is an incredible place to visit in Greece.
The quaint and sleepy village sets an island like pace and you can wander from coffee shop to coffee shop, stopping at a little artisan craft shop along the way.
If you’re after entertainment then this probably isn’t the place to head, as there are only a small selection of restaurants and bars here. What you will find, however, is incredibly friendly and welcoming locals, great hiking opportunities, and some small, secluded rocky coves to enjoy the water.
Hire a car from Athens to get here and you’ll be able to explore a little further afield too. The stunning city of Monemvasia would make a perfect day trip.
Where To Stay On Kyparissi
There is a limited choice of accommodation options in quiet Kyparissi as it’s such a small village, but you won’t be disappointed!
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this traditional hotel combines comfort and a splash of luxury! The rooms are large, the welcome is warm and the sea views are to die for!
✅ For more information and prices head here.
Another great choice for a stay in Kyparissi. The rooms are basic but comfortable and there’s a lovely communal area and a great restaurant here too.
✅ For more information and prices head here!
If you want a little more freedom to cook for yourself then these apartments are a great option. They have basic cooking facilities and the small market is close by. This is a great way to save money while away so if you’re looking for a budget option then this is a perfect choice!
✅ For more information and prices head here.
Secluded Greek Islands In The Cyclades
The Cyclades have been made famous by islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, but you don’t have to join the thousands of visitors there each year to enjoy the best this area of Greece has to offer.
#7 Serifos
Serifos was a real surprise for us. We stopped there on a sail over to Milos to shelter from some high winds and ended up staying way longer than we’d planned.
Serifos isn’t the quietest Greek island we’ve included on this list but it’s certainly somewhere you can escape the crowds and find a little peace and quiet!
Life in Serifos mostly concentrates in the Chora, a picturesque town with Cycladic style of traditional whitewashed houses. It’s pretty impressive to see them sprawled up the hillside, and the view from the top is incredible!
The beaches are remote and uncrowded, with some of the bays pretty hard to scramble to but well worth it to have them all to yourself for the day. We also thought it was a great spot for snorkelling, with some of the clearest waters we’ve ever seen. We spotted rays and eels during our time here.
Where To Stay On Serifos
Stay at Ammos Serifos for luxury accommodation with views over the Chora and out to sea or Alisachni to be closer to the beach and the seaside amenities (the owner will even pick you up from the port).
#8 Kimolos
Milos is a famed Greek island in the Cyclades, and rightly so. But why more people don’t take the short ferry ride over to the quiet Greek island of Kimolos we have no idea. It is just as beautiful as Milos but far, far quieter.
The ferry will take you to the main port on Kimolos. Follow the road up the hill and you’ll find the cutest little town full of such charming bars and restaurants that you’ll want to try them all.
If you turn right instead of heading up the hill you’ll come across a tiny pebbled beach with crystal clear waters, fascinating rock formations to swim out to and sunbathe on, and colourful doorways in the cliffs. It’s just magical.
Where To Stay On Kimolos
Stay here in Alexandra House for a taste of real Greek village life in the town of Kimolos
✅ Check here for more information and prices
Stay at The Elephant Goupa Beach to be right in the middle of this otherworldly scene by the beach houses cut into the cliffs.
✅ Check here for more information and prices
#9 Koufonisia
Koufonisia is a great place to get away from the crowds. You’ll find all the beauty and none of the crowds on this little Greek island in the Cyclades. It’s become a popular island with the rich and famous, so keep an eye out for super yachts on your visit.
If it’s high rise hotels and water parks you’re after, you’ll be disappointed by Koufonisia. There are very few hotels, and you’re more likely to find a pretty apartment or villa for your stay.
The waters surrounding the island are incredible and there are plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, or you can even take a trip to the nearby island of Iraklia and snorkel the German plane wreck from WW2.
Where to stay
This beautiful villa is just a 2 minute walk from the beach and close to the main town where you’ll find shops and restaurants. The villa has a pool, patio and garden and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s one of the best places to stay on the island so snap it up quick.
#10 Schoinousa
Known as an undiscovered Santorini, it’s easy to fall in love with (or on) this tiny Greek island. You’ll find pretty white washed houses in tiny villages, and you can hike around the whole island in just a few hours.
This is the kind of place to become truly immersed in the local culture, or just to curl up with a good book and get lost in the peace and quiet.
Quiet Greek Islands In The Dodecanese
#11 Astipalea
Astipalea is a gem of an island. If you’re heading to the Dodecanese then make Astipalea your first choice!
The town itself isn’t the quietest of all our options here but it’s certainly one of the most beautiful, and because Astipalea is so lightly populated it’s very easy to get away from civilisation here and find super secluded spots to relax in.
With a hilltop castle, white-washed windmills, and shaded alleyways lined with vibrant flowers this is the sort of place you’ll be happy getting lost in for days.
If cute cafes set in ancient buildings aren’t your thing then pack a lot of water and get hiking. Astipalea has some amazing trekking opportunities and stunning little beaches and coves.
If you find you’re missing the tourist scene then head off on a boat trip to one of the neighbouring tiny islands, where the sea scenery is out of this world!
Where To Stay In Astipalea
Anatoli Luxury Studios & Suites
For incredible views, you can’t beat a stay here. These luxurious apartments have balcony views overlooking the castle and old town that are so spectacular you won’t want to leave!
You’re close to the town here but far enough away to have some privacy. The rooms are self-contained so you can cook here if you choose.
✅ Find out more information and prices here
This adults-only hotel is another great choice if you want a little luxury. The rooms are beautifully designed and the views are exceptional. You won’t regret staying here!
✅ For more information and prices head here
#12 The Laid-Back Island Of Leros
Leros island was famously the hunting ground of the goddess Artemis as it was full of deer, but now you’ll find more divers than hunters, keen to explore the underwater shipwrecks around Leros’s interestingly shaped coastline.
There are some lovely little towns and villages on the quiet Greek island of Leros, and also some great treks and lovely snorkelling opportunities.
Ag. Marina with its imposing castle and pretty harbourside restaurants is well worth an explore, but we would probably leave out the not so pretty town of Lakki (although there are some very interesting war memorabilia here if that’s something that interests you).
Where To Stay In Leros
This hotel is in a quiet bay with lovely views and bars and tavernas within easy reach. It’s only about 20 minutes from Agia Marina and it’s an easy walk from the windmills and castle.
✅ Check here for more information and prices
#13 Patmos Island
Just a short ferry ride from Leros you’ll find the beautiful quiet Greek island of Patmos. Patmos, like so many Greek islands, has a completely different feel to its neighbours. It’s famous for being the place where Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation, and there are several ancient religious sites here worth visiting.
The quiet Greek island of Patmos is full of family-run restaurants making food grown from local ingredients. In fact, some of the restaurants even have their own farm attached. We bought homemade cheese and wine to take away from one of these restaurants and it was incredible.
Where To Stay In Patmos
This is a 5-star luxury hotel, only a few steps from Grikos beach on the quiet Greek island of Patmos. If you’re looking to really get away from it all this is your place.
The photos of this hotel speak for themselves, though it’s even better in real life. There’s a spa and fitness centre here, along with the most stunning backdrop for sunset cocktails. If you stay here make sure you do actually leave!
✅ Check here for more information and prices
#14 Kalymnos
Ah beautiful Kalymnos. This absolute gem of an island is surprisingly quiet considering its beauty, and we really can’t understand why more people don’t flock here every year.
Kalymnos is one of Greece’s best islands for climbing, and it seems that the only people to have heard of it are keen climbers. But it has a lot more to offer than just great rocks.
Kalymnos is a really charming and laid back island, and the scenery here is simply incredible. As are the beaches! If you’re looking for a peaceful holiday then Kalymnos should make the short list.
To get here, either get a connecting flight from Athens or fly directly to the island of Kos and take a short ferry ride over.
Where to stay
Located right on the sandy beach of Kantouni, this 4-star hotel is the perfect place to totally unwind. It has a stunning pool area and the suites offer views of the sea. offers a swimming pool, a restaurant and a pool bar. It features air-conditioned rooms and suites boasting views of the sea.
#15 Fournoi
Fournoi is known for its honey and local cheese. That’s if it’s known for anything at all, as this little Greek island is very rarely visited by tourists.
It’s nestled between some of the Dodecaneses better known islands, like Samos (which is equally as beautiful) and perhaps this is why it’s often overlooked.
With it’s quiet beaches, incredible hikes and traditional Greek villages it’s a shame this island isn’t more widely enjoyed, but it also means it’s a great spot to keep to yourself!
You’ll find beautiful little private beaches and bays, some viewpoints that are well worth the hike, and even ancient temple ruins. Plenty to keep you busy if you aren’t keen on sitting still while you’re away.
How To Get To Greece’s Least Visited Islands
The reason a lot of these Greek islands are quiet is that they don’t usually have airports, making them a little harder to visit. Don’t let that put you off though. Greece has some of the best ferries in the world, with links all over the country.
The best thing to do is fly into Athens and travel from there. We use Skyscanner to book all our flights, as they find the cheapest deals and best times to fly, plus you have a range of filter options that make finding flights super convenient.
We can thoroughly recommend you book a few nights in the country’s capital either before or after visiting some of Greece’s quieter islands.
It’s an amazing contrast to the quiet island life, and the city is just brimming with culture and history. If you’re visiting as a family then seeing Athens with kids will be something they remember for a lifetime – the historic buildings here are like something out of a film set!
Take A Ferry
We recommend you book through Direct Ferries to get the best times and prices – and it’s a really fun way to travel too!
You can even do quite long journeys on the ferry so you can travel directly from Athens to a lot of the islands listed below, and if you opt to travel overnight you can book a cabin room and arrive fresh and ready for a day of exploring!
Charter A Sailboat
Another great way to explore some of the more quiet Greek islands is by chartering a sailboat. If you have the qualifications to skipper a charter boat yourself then finding a charter company won’t be hard – Greece is full of them!
Just make sure you hire a boat from a well-rated company and enquire about safety equipment before you pay.
If you can’t sail then you can pay extra for a skipper to join your group and sail you from place to place as you choose! Keep in mind that the Cyclades are very windy over the summer months which can make sailing these islands more tricky!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about travelling Greece’s less popular islands.
Which Greek Island Is The Least Touristy?
Choosing the “least touristy” Greek island can be subjective and depends on various factors such as the time of year, accessibility, and personal preferences.
However, some Greek islands are generally less developed for tourism compared to popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos.
Having been to so many Greek islands, the ones that are actually the least touristy aren’t set up for tourists and you’d be lucky to find somewhere to stay. If you have a boat then send us an email and we’ll help you out!
What you really want are islands that are set up for a small number of tourists, so that you have a few options and some local places to eat out. You can find that in the islands we’ve listed, but here are a few more you might like to consider. Out of list above, Fournoi is probably the least touristy island we visited.
Folegandros: Folegandros is a small and serene island in the Cyclades, known for its rugged landscapes, traditional architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. While it has been gaining popularity in recent years, especially during the summer months, it still retains its authentic charm and remains relatively quieter compared to more touristy islands.
Amorgos: Amorgos is a hidden gem in the Cyclades, known for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and traditional way of life. It’s less developed for tourism compared to some other islands in the region, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Ikaria: Ikaria is located in the northeastern Aegean Sea and is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and relaxed lifestyle. It’s less frequented by tourists compared to popular tourist destinations, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Greek culture and hospitality.
Antiparos: Antiparos is a small island located just a short ferry ride from Paros. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and laid-back atmosphere. While it’s close to the more touristy Paros, Antiparos offers a quieter and more secluded escape.
These are just a few examples of Greek islands that are generally considered less touristy compared to some of the more popular destinations, but our favourites are on the main list above!
What is the most underrated Greek island?
One Greek island that often flies under the radar but is truly underrated is Naxos. Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago and offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that rival those of its more famous neighbors.
We didn’t include it in our list because we’re not sure it could be classed as a quiet Greek island, but despite its size and beauty, Naxos remains relatively less crowded and touristy compared to islands like Santorini and Mykonos.
This means that visitors to Naxos can enjoy a more authentic Greek island experience without the crowds and high prices often associated with more popular destinations.
Naxos boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, picturesque villages with whitewashed houses and labyrinthine streets, and a rich history and culture waiting to be explored. The island is home to several historical sites and landmarks, including the iconic Portara, a massive marble doorway dating back to ancient times.
One of the highlights of Naxos is its diverse landscapes, which range from verdant valleys and fertile plains to rugged mountains and rolling hillsides. This makes Naxos a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more.
Basically, it has everything. And because it’s so big you can get a little off the beaten track here, so it could be a quiet island if you wanted it to be!
What are the cheap non-touristy Greek islands?
Finding cheap and non-touristy Greek islands can be a bit of a challenge, as many of the more remote and less-developed islands may have limited accommodation options and amenities.
We haven’t delved into the nitty gritty of the costs of each island, but we found the cheaper islands on our list for accommodation and activities were:
- Astypalea
- Fournoi
- Kyparissi
- Patmos
What is the most unspoiled Greek island?
This is such a tough question to answer, but we’ve been asked it so many times so we’ll have a go!
Determining the most unspoiled Greek island is subjective and can depend on various factors such as personal preferences, accessibility, and the level of development. However, one Greek island that stood out to us was Fournoi.
It seemed as though time had really stood still here and there was very little in terms of infrastructure. We took several really long hikes around and it was full of beautiful farm land and pretty farm buildings.
The main town was very quiet with little going on. There were a few places to eat, but even they were shut at 3pm for a siesta!
Another mainland option is Kyparissi, which was tiny and gorgeous. It felt like it probably looked the same 100 years ago. I would love to know!
Conclusion: Quiet Greek Islands
Hopefully that’s given you some inspiration for quiet Greek islands you can head to this summer. If you’re planning a trip then let us know, we’d love to hear from you and help in any way we can!
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Hi, this article is great. Will you write another one about secluded camping sites?
Thank you