Have you ever dreamt of pristine beaches where the only sounds are the waves and gentle sea breeze? Do you yearn to explore peaceful islands, far from the crowds and noise of typical tourist destinations? Greece, renowned for its Mediterranean beauty, offers more than just Santorini or Mykonos. There are still hidden gems, beautiful and lesser-known islands, waiting to be discovered on your unique journey. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) as we unveil the secrets of these hidden pearls, where you can fully embrace the authentic natural beauty and culture of Greece.
Naxos: The Island of Diverse Experiences
Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago, captivates visitors not only with its long stretches of golden sand beaches but also with its rich inland beauty. Unlike the typical aridity of the Cyclades, Naxos boasts fertile valleys, nourished by abundant water sources, creating a lush and verdant landscape. Majestic mountains rise into the blue sky, inviting adventurous souls to conquer them.
In Naxos, you can indulge in a variety of activities to suit your preferences. If you are a sea lover, immerse yourself in the turquoise waters at beaches like Agios Prokopios, Plaka, or Aliko. These beaches are not only beautiful but also a paradise for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, or simply swimming and sunbathing. If you want to explore the inland beauty, rent a motorbike or car and drive through traditional villages like Halki or Filoti, where time seems to stand still. You will admire houses with bright red tile roofs, winding stone paths, and lush green olive groves.
A panoramic view of Naxos island showcasing its green valleys and mountains
Naxos is also an ideal destination for food lovers. The island is famous for its high-quality agricultural products such as Graviera Naxou cheese, Naxos potatoes, and Kitron liqueur. Take time to visit local farms to learn about the production process and savor the distinctive flavors of these products. Don’t forget to enjoy traditional Naxian dishes at cozy family restaurants, where you can feel the hospitality and warmth of the locals. A tour exploring Naxos will offer you diverse and memorable experiences, from blue seas and mountains to distinctive culture and cuisine.
Kythira: The Island of the Goddess of Love and Tranquility
Kythira, an island located at the crossroads between the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas, is one of the most isolated Greek islands. This isolation has created a Kythira that is wild, peaceful, and charming. It is known as the island of Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love in Greek mythology. According to legend, Aphrodite was born from sea foam at Palaiopoli beach in Kythira.
Visiting Kythira, you will feel a difference compared to other famous tourist islands. Without luxury resorts or noisy bars, Kythira offers visitors absolute tranquility and relaxation. Wild nature is one of the main attractions of this island. You can explore canyons, natural waterfalls, and mysterious caves. Hiking trails will lead you through stunning landscapes, from hills covered with Mediterranean shrubs to pristine beaches hidden in small bays.
A serene beach in Kythira with clear turquoise water and rocky cliffs
Kythira also has beautiful beaches, the most famous being Lagkada beach with crystal clear blue water and magnificent mountain scenery. Kalami beach is small and quiet, ideal for those seeking privacy. Palaiopoli beach, where the goddess Aphrodite was born, carries a mysterious and romantic beauty. In addition, you can also explore ancient villages such as Chora, Mylopotamos, or Avlemonas, which preserve traditional architecture and fascinating historical stories. A trip to Kythira will be a journey to find peace of mind, immerse yourself in wild nature, and discover unique cultural values.
Ithaca: Homeland of the Hero Odysseus
Ithaca, a small island located west of mainland Greece, is world-renowned as the homeland of the hero Odysseus in Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey. Visiting Ithaca, you will not only admire the stunning natural beauty but also step into the world of fascinating myths and history.
Ithaca captivates visitors with its beautiful beaches with clear turquoise waters. Filiatro, Gidaki, or Sarakiniko beaches are must-visit destinations for sea lovers. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or simply relax on the sand and enjoy the fresh air. In addition, Ithaca also has secluded and quiet bays, ideal for kayaking or sailing trips to explore the coastline.
A picturesque harbor in Ithaca with colorful houses and boats
Vathi, the capital of Ithaca, is an attractive destination with colorful Venetian-style houses, narrow streets, and charming souvenir shops. You can stroll around the city, visit the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca to learn about the island’s history and culture, or enjoy local cuisine at seaside restaurants. Don’t forget to try Bourdeto fish soup, a specialty of Ithaca, with a rich and delicious flavor. A tour exploring Ithaca is not just a tourist trip but also a journey back to the roots, exploring profound cultural and historical values.
Ikaria: The Island of Longevity and Slow Living
Ikaria, also known as Nikaria, is a unique island in the Northeast Aegean archipelago. This place is famous for the peaceful and healthy lifestyle of its residents and is known as one of the “Blue Zones” of the world, where people have a significantly higher average life expectancy than the global average. The secret to the longevity of Ikarians lies in their healthy diet, active lifestyle, and optimistic, life-loving spirit.
Visiting Ikaria, you will feel a slow and relaxed pace of life, different from other bustling tourist islands. Local people are friendly and hospitable, always ready to share stories about their lives and culture. You can participate in the daily activities of Ikarians, such as hiking in lush forests, bathing in natural hot springs, or participating in traditional festivals.
A scenic coastal village in Ikaria with traditional houses and the Aegean Sea
Ikaria also boasts beautiful beaches, the most famous being Seychelles beach with fine white sand and clear turquoise water, surrounded by majestic granite cliffs. Na beach, located near the archaeological site of Naos, has a wild and peaceful beauty. Agios Georgios beach is an ideal choice for families with its wide sandy beach and shallow sea. A tour exploring Ikaria is not just a vacation but also an opportunity for you to learn about a healthy lifestyle, find balance in life, and enjoy peaceful moments amidst beautiful nature.
Karpathos: The Island of Ancient Villages and Untamed Beauty
Karpathos, an island located between Crete and Rhodes, is a gem of the Dodecanese archipelago. It stands out with its unspoiled beauty, pristine vegetation, and picturesque ancient villages. Karpathos has retained its traditional charm and has not been heavily influenced by mass tourism, offering visitors unique and authentic experiences.
The southern part of Karpathos has begun to attract tourists in recent years, but the rest of the island still retains its inherent wilderness. Long, deserted sandy beaches like Apella, Kyra Panagia, or Achata are ideal places for you to enjoy privacy and absolute relaxation. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or participate in water sports.
A stunning view of Apella beach in Karpathos with turquoise waters and pine trees
The village of Olympos, located in northern Karpathos, is a must-visit destination. This village was built around the 9th century and still retains many unique cultural traditions. Women in Olympos still wear brightly colored traditional costumes in their daily lives. The local language in Olympos is also different from modern Greek, bearing strong imprints of ancient Greek. A tour exploring Karpathos will take you back in time, exploring traditional cultural values and admiring the wild, majestic natural beauty.
Samothrace: The Island of Waterfalls and Mystery
Samothrace, an island located in the northern Aegean Sea, is an ideal destination for those who love adventure and nature exploration. It is famous for its majestic waterfalls, clear natural pools, and hiking trails through forests. Samothrace also carries a mysterious and sacred beauty, associated with ancient myths and historical stories.
Visiting Samothrace, you will immerse yourself in wild nature and discover unique landscapes. Waterfalls like Kremastos and Fonias are must-visit destinations. You can cool off under the fresh water, soak in natural pools, and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and forests. Hiking trails will lead you through dense forests, rocky canyons, and high peaks, where you can admire panoramic views of the island from above.
A cascading waterfall in Samothrace surrounded by lush greenery
Chora village, the capital of Samothrace, is an attractive destination with traditional architecture and a unique location on Mount Fengari. You can stroll around the village, visit local cafes and restaurants, or climb Mount Fengari to watch the beautiful sunset. Samothrace also has beautiful beaches like Paxia Ammos, Kipos, and Valtos, but the main attraction of this island is still its wild natural beauty and unique exploration experiences. A trip to Samothrace will be an exciting and memorable adventure for those who love exploration and adventure.
Lichadonisia: The Miniature Maldives of Greece
Lichadonisia, a small archipelago located near Evia island and about 200 km from Athens, is known as the “Bahamas, Seychelles, and Maldives of Greece”. This archipelago consists of a series of small islands formed by volcanic activity, with crystal clear waters, fine white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. Lichadonisia is a hidden tropical paradise in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Most of the small islands in Lichadonisia are uninhabited, creating a wild and absolutely peaceful space. You can reach Lichadonisia by boat from Kammena Vourla port and explore pristine beaches, snorkel to see coral reefs and diverse marine life, or simply relax on the sand and enjoy the sunshine.
A boat tour in Lichadonisia showcasing the turquoise waters and small islands
One of the most enjoyable activities in Lichadonisia is joining a yacht tour to explore the archipelago. You will visit different small islands, swim in azure bays, and enjoy lunch on the boat with fresh seafood and local wine. Lichadonisia is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious and private vacation, away from the noise and bustle of crowds of tourists. A tour exploring Lichadonisia will give you unforgettable experiences and wonderful memories of a real island paradise in Greece.
Conclusion
Greece is not just about famous islands but also hides countless lesser-known gems. A tour exploring lesser-known islands will take you to the islands of Naxos, Kythira, Ithaca, Ikaria, Karpathos, Samothrace, and Lichadonisia, where you can enjoy unspoiled natural beauty, discover unique local cultures, and experience exciting tourist activities. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) accompany you on your journey to discover the secrets of the Mediterranean and create the most memorable travel memories. Are you ready for an adventure to explore the beautiful small islands of Greece?