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Up and coming Greek islands

Sun-kissed, extraordinarily beautiful and effortlessly enchanting, it’s easy to see why Greece’s most famous islands, from Crete and Corfu to Santorini to Mykonos, have long been popular with travellers the world over.

But, as data shows, it seems they face increasing competition from their lesser known neighbours. We took a peek into search volumes for Greece’s islands and found that between 2018 and 2019, searches for lesser-known islands, such as Kythira, Halki and Tilos, noticeably increased – some rising as much as 340%.

If that’s piqued your interest and you’re curious to know more, read on for our guide to Greece’s top 10 up-and-coming islands.

1. Kythira +340%

To the south east of the Peloponnese peninsula you’ll find Kythira , an almost otherworldly Greek island time capsule. Home to gorgeous beaches like Diakofti and Kalami, pretty villages that feature throwback kafeneios (coffee shops) and stunning waterfalls and caves, it’s the perfect destination to get away from it all. Spend a lovely afternoon pottering about Kythira’s capital, Hora, and learn more about the island at the Archaeological Museum of Kythira.

Kythira, Greece

2. Samos +39%

Whether you’re after a classic beach break, a scenic hike or leaning more towards cultural and gastronomic endeavours, Samos , located in the Aegean Sea, has it all. Meaning, whatever you want from your Greek island adventure, you’ll find it here. For sun, sea and sand, head to Tsabou or Psili Ammos. For a picturesque trek, Mount Kerkis is unbeatable. Meanwhile, wine tasting at The Museum of Samian Wine will please wine connoisseurs.

Samos, Greece

3. Lemnos +38%

Possessing old world charm, Lemnos is as quintessentially Greek as the Aegean islands come. Relatively remote, the pace of life here is delightfully relaxed and unhurried. So, if you’re in want of something a little more peaceful and laidback, this butterfly-shaped island is for you. Highlights in Lemnos include Myrina, the island’s captivating capital; Ifestia, an important archaeological site; and Keros Beach, brilliant for wind sports.

Myrina, Lemnos, Grece

4. Kythnos +32%

For an authentic and traditional Greek island experience, look to the pleasantly out-of-the-way Kythnos . Still a hidden gem among the Cyclades – the name given for a group of islands in the Aegean Sea – Kythnos will also tempt those looking for a true sense of escape. The main attractions here include the island’s many beaches and, of course, its famous thermal springs. For the latter, head to the picturesque village of Loutra in the north.

Loutra, Kythnos, Greece

5. Halki +30%

In stark contrast to its sizeable, vibrant and busy neighbour Rhodes, the small island of Halki offers a calmer, more intimate and fuss-free experience. There are very few distractions here, so, if your idea of bliss is to do very little – to relax, recharge and simply enjoy the moment – then make a beeline for Halki. Long lunches and coffee afternoons in the quaint tavernas and cafes come as standard.

Halki, Greece

6. Koufonissi +25%

A rarity of sorts, Koufonissi is, strictly speaking, two islands – the upper Pano and the lower Kato. Ignore the latter – it’s uninhabited. Instead, focus your attention on Pano, which is mainly home to soft powdery white beaches and spectacular turquoise waters. Its best beaches include Loutro, Pori and Parianos. When you’ve topped up your tan and enjoyed a relaxing swim, head to Hora. Here you’ll find a nice mix of quality restaurants, cafes and shops.

Koufonissi, Greece

7. Milos +23%

Courtesy of its volcanic heritage, Milos is blessed with diverse landscapes that set it apart from other Cycladic islands. Along the marvellous coastlines you’ll find fascinating rock formations, while inland the island is characteristically hilly. Throw in some deep and intriguing history– the mining of obsidian can be traced back to the Bronze Age – and it becomes clear that Milos is made for exploring. Needless to say, its many, many beaches, spearheaded by the likes of Sarakiniko and Kléftiko, are a big draw.

Milos, Greece

8. Meganissi +22%

Lying west of mainland Greece, the quietly confident, easy-going and decidedly non-touristy Meganissi is another under-the-radar gem that will please holidaymakers longing for a slice of unspoilt magnificence. The island has three main villages, which are all well worth a visit. First there’s Vathy, which is great for alfresco by the sea dining; Spartochori, fantastic for nonchalant ambling; and Katomeri, perfect for whiling away an afternoon.

Vathy, Meganissi, Greece

9. Tilos +21%

With a lush, verdant and picture perfect postcard craggy interior matched by a stunning coastline that plays host to a number of high-quality beaches – like Eristos and Agios Antonios – Tilos is a very special Greek island. It’s also a very green one too. A leader in eco- tourism, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of nature and wildlife during your visit here. Go bird watching, enjoy a leisurely walk on one of its many trails and spend time in Livadia, the main port.

Tilos, Greece

10. Karpathos +14%

Located between Rhodes and Greece’s biggest island, Crete, Karpathos will transport you to another time and place, as you’ll discover exploring villages like Olympos, Volada and Diafani.

Deeply rooted to the past, time-honoured traditions are very much alive and well here. In the north, the island is markedly wilder, mountainous and secluded, while in the south, Karpathos features an array of dazzling beaches and lovely bays. The island’s capital, Pigadia, has plenty to see and do.

Karpathos, Greece

Here's the full list of the top 20 Greek islands that have experienced a notable increase in search volume over the past 12 months.

	Greek Island	Percentage Increase
1	Kythira	340.11%
2	Samos	39.35%
3	Lemnos	38.20%
4	Kythnos	31.72%
5	Halki	29.72%
6	Koufonisia	24.73%
7	Milos	23.25%
8	Meganissi	22.29%
9	Tilos	21.31%
10	Karpathos	14.29%
11	Folegandros	13.08%
12	Ithaca	11.89%
13	Naxos	11.86%
14	Paros	11.19%
15	Hydra	8.48%
16	Andros	8.31%
17	Agistri	8.30%
18	Astypalea	7.03%
19	Mykonos	6.51%
20	Schinoussa	5.61%

By Dudley Der Parthog

7^th May 2019

Talk to our Greece expert

Dudley Der Parthog

Having been at university and unsure as to what to do following some temporary jobs, Dudley joined the family firm as a brochure packer in 1979. In those days distribution was from the office premises and Sunvil was just beginning to grow again, following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, the company’s major destination, in 1974. He was then made responsible for travel agency sales. In due course he took over the running and brochure writing for the Sunvil Greece programme and the contracting of accommodation. He is now a director of the company and is the most knowledgeable and experienced member of the Greek team. He mixes work in administering the programme with taking reservations and he particularly enjoys tackling complicated and well nigh impossible itineraries.

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