For most travelers, Greece is naturally associated with the image of the Greek archipelago, dominated by volcanic landscapes, windmills and sparkling turquoise waters.
The islands of mainland Greece offer similar scenery to Santorini in Mykonos, but often at more affordable prices. They are located in close proximity to the east, west or north coast of the country, being separated from the land only by narrow straits or sea channels.
Quick access, varied scenery and rich history make them ideal destinations, suitable for both weekend getaways and longer holidays.
Evia, the island that continues the continent
Evia, also known as Euboea, is the second largest island of Greece, after Crete, with an area of 3,670 square kilometers. What makes it unique is its almost organic connection with mainland Greece. The island runs parallel to the eastern shore of the Attica region and is connected to the mainland by two bridges in the city of Halkida.
The landscape is dominated by mountain ranges that are, in fact, the natural continuation of the continental relief, and its 175 kilometers of coastline is home to wild beaches, hot springs and picturesque villages. The mild climate and well-preserved historical monuments make Evia a destination appreciated by both locals and tourists looking for authenticity away from the crowds of the more famous islands.
Thassos, the emerald island of the north
At the northern end of the Aegean Sea, just 8 kilometers from the coast of Thrace, is Thassos. This island, nicknamed the “Emerald Isle” due to its lush vegetation, is one of the closest island destinations to Romania.
The landscape combines beaches with fine sand and crystal clear waters with dense forests of pine and olive trees, and the tourist offer includes traditional taverns and authentic villages. Thassos enjoys a slightly moderate climate due to its northern position, which makes it a pleasant alternative for the summer season.
Lefkada, the only island that can be reached directly by car
Lefkada occupies a special position among the islands of mainland Greece, being the only Greek island that can be reached directly by car, via a drawbridge that connects it to the west coast of the country. Located in the Ionian Sea, the island is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel, and the road connection facilitates access for tourists.
The landscape is dominated by exotic beaches, lush nature and traditional villages, and the island’s capital, which bears the same name, is a starting point for exploring the bay and resorts in the east of the island.
Corfu, the green island of the Ionian Sea
Corfu, or Kerkyra, is the northernmost of the Ionian Islands and lies off the northwest coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. Being located between Italy and mainland Greece, the island has been of strategic importance throughout history, having been successively dominated by the Venetians, the French and the British.
This cultural heritage is reflected in the architecture of the main town, Kerkyra, where European influences blend with Greek elements. The landscape is dominated by olive and cypress groves, and its beaches are among the most appreciated in the Ionian Sea.
Salamis, the city of the battle between the Athenians and the Persians
Salamis is the largest island in the Saronic Gulf and is in close proximity to the port of Piraeus. Its history is marked by the famous naval battle of 480 BC, when the Athenian fleet defeated the Persian fleet.
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Today, the island retains evidence of this glorious past, but also offers quiet beaches and landscapes covered in pine forests. The monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, founded in the 17th century, is one of the main tourist attractions, and the resort of Selinia attracts visitors who want to relax.
Aegina, the island of pistachios and ancient temples
Aegina, located about an hour and a half by ferry from Piraeus, is a popular destination for Athens residents. The island is famous for pistachio production, and its landscape is dominated by Mount Oros, which reaches a height of 532 meters.
The Temple of Aphaia, built in 490 BC, is located on a hill and offers a spectacular panorama over the Aegean Sea. The main town retains villas from the 19th century, and the Archaeological Museum documents the long history of the island, inhabited since 3500 BC.
Poros, the island with white houses and orange roofs
Poros is a small but charming island located in the Saronic Gulf, separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow channel. White houses with orange-tinted roofs give a picturesque look, and the clock tower on top of the hill is a visible landmark from a distance.
The island has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, and its cultural heritage includes the Zoodohou Pigis Monastery and the Temple of Poseidon. The naval base established in the 19th century currently houses a school for Greek naval cadets.
Hydra, the car-free island
Hydra, also known as Ydra, is one of the most elegant islands of the Saronic Gulf. Easily accessible from Piraeus, the island stands out for the absence of cars, the means of transport being limited to carts and bicycles.
The center of the island is the port city of the same name, whose white and gray houses, built in the 18th century by Venetian and Genoese architects, give it a bohemian atmosphere. The Panagia Monastery and the old port are the main attractions, and the village of Vlychos, with its 19th-century stone bridge, completes the picturesque picture.
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Spetses, the island of heroes
Spetses, called Pityousa in Antiquity, meaning “the pine”, is the most wooded island in the Saronic Gulf. Its history is closely linked to the Greek War of Independence, the island being the first in the archipelago to rebel against the Ottomans in 1821. The heroine Bouboulina, who took command of her husband’s ship after his death, is originally from Spetses.
The Hatziyiannis Mexis mansion, built between 1795 and 1798, today houses a museum exhibiting costumes, weapons and objects covering over 4,000 years of history. The neoclassical architecture of the Sotirios Anargyros mansion and the Agios Nikolaos Cathedral are other points of interest.
Kythira, the southern island of the Peloponnese
Kythira, located off the southern coast of the Peloponnese, is the southernmost of the Ionian islands. Although it is part of this archipelago, its geographical position brings it closer to mainland Greece, being accessible by ferry from Naples.
The island retains a wild character, with isolated beaches, traditional villages and historical vestiges attesting to the presence of ancient civilizations. Its varied landscape, between mountains and hidden bays, makes it a popular destination for travelers looking for tranquility and authenticity.
