Greek island holiday Archives

Best Greek Island Day Trips from Athens

We’ve rounded up our top five Greek Island day trips from Athens for 2024!

The allure of Athens is undeniable. Filled with history, culture, and culinary delights on every corner, you could easily spend weeks in the capital and still have lots more to explore. But for those searching for a quick Greek island escape, there are several options easily accessible by ferry.

So whether you’re looking for a memorable day trip or the next destination to continue your SS24 Greece holiday, these spots are all within two hours of Athens.

Insights Greece - Best Greek Island Day Trips from Athens

Hydra

If you want to spend some time in a cosmopolitan and chic setting, Hydra is the perfect choice. Known for its vibrant arts scene, the island attracts artists, designers, writers, and musicians from all around the world. Think striking stone-built houses, quaint narrow cobblestone streets, secluded coves, and a rugged coastline perfect for a quick dip! Visitors can also spend the day exploring the town’s beautiful waterfront promenade while enjoying some fresh seafood and local wine at one of the many restaurants or all-day bars.

Ferry tips: Ferries to Hydra from Athens depart from the port of Piraeus and take around 1.5 hours with high-speed services.

Andros

If you’d like to explore a more authentic side of the Cycladic islands, Andros is the ideal place! Featuring stunning beaches, secluded waterfalls, and picturesque villages, it’s an ideal location for swimming, hiking, and eating! Keep in mind it’s a huge island (the second largest of the Cyclades), so if you are only planning on spending a day, we recommend you head straight to the Chora where you can explore the neoclassical mansions, museums, cafes, restaurants and bakeries. Neiborio Beach is located on the left side of town just a few metres from the main street – so you can easily fit in a swim before departing!

Ferry tips: Ferries from Athens to Andros depart from Rafina Port and take around 1 hour with the high-speed services.

Kea

If you love rugged landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere, Kea should be at the top of your list! Retaining its authentic charm, Kea is the closest Cycladic island to Athens and one of the most popular among locals looking for a quick island escape. Spend the day enjoying local cuisine and the island’s lovely delicacies, then make your way over to Sikamia beach for a refreshing swim before catching the sunset at the main town of Ioulida, which overlooks the Aegean.

Ferry tips: Ferries to Kea from Athens depart from the port of Lavio and take around 1 hour.

Aegina

With up to 30 ferries crossing per day from Athens to Aegina, this is by far one of the most popular day trips from the capital! Aegina is ideal for those looking for a jam-packed day filled with good food, great swimming, and impressive ancient monuments along the way. Known for its wonderful landscapes and traditional villages, Aegina is also home to the sanctuary of Aphaia, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece, which offers breathtaking views of the entire island. And don’t leave before you get your hands on some of the locally grown pistachios – known as some of the best in the world!

Ferry tips: The ferry from Athens to Aegina leaves from the port of Piraeus and takes around 40 minutes on the high-speed ferry.

Kythnos

Slowly becoming more and more well-known thanks to its beautiful beaches, impressive hiking trails, and relaxing atmosphere, Kythnos is a great island to explore traditional Cycladic architecture, Byzantine churches, and cobblestoned alleyways that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Make sure you swim at Kolona or Agios Sostis Beach before heading over to the Castle of Oria where you can take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea! And also try some of the local seafood – it’s as fresh as it gets!

Ferry tips: Travel from Athens to Kythnos by ferry from the port of Piraeus or Lavrio – the high-speed ferries will get you there in around 1.5 hours.

Featured Image Courtesy of YFES Kythnos

7 Reasons to Spend Your Summer in Karpathos

The second-largest island of the Dodecanese, Karpathos is a picture of wild, untouched beauty.

Once you’ve driven around the island, explored its stunning beaches and taken in the unique geology that surrounds you, you’ll feel like part of a secret club of those who have been fortunate enough to visit this very special part of Greece.

Taking in the beauty of Apella beach

The road to Apella beach along the east coast of the island boasts a view of deep blue that sets the tone for the beaches of this island. Somewhere on the road from Kyra Panagia beach to Apella is a section of the road where you can stop the car and take in the beauty of Apella from above. After taking in the majestic bird’s eye view of the turquoise sea lapping against white rocks, drive down the winding road towards the nearby taverna and head the rest of the way on foot. Once you pass through the rocky corridor leading to the beach, find a spot to leave your things and, quite simply, forget about them. You’ll spend the rest of your time floating blissfully in the salty, clear water that will softly nudge you into vacation mode. Insider tip: Apella is, with good reason, a popular beach. Get in early or on a weekday to enjoy this spot without the masses that often follow.

Insights Greece - 7 Reasons to Spend Your Summer in Karpathos — Apella Beach

Strolling through the village of Menetes

The village of Menetes sits between the two coasts of Karpathos. Its alleys lined with colourful homes perched upon the mountain make for a magical late afternoon walk. As the sun starts to set slowly, it leaves a soft glow on the colours of peach, pink, lemon yellow and soft blue. Once you’ve strolled through the town, head to the Church of the Assumption for a picture-perfect view of the town in all its colourful glory.

Lunching at Folia Taverna

Spoa is a small, slow-moving village, and that is exactly how the locals like it. Folia Taverna is the quintessential village taverna, serving up classic dishes like souvlaki, fried garidakia (baby prawns) and calamari. Spoa’s close proximity to the small port of Agios Nikolaos means that the seafood is freshly caught, and it also means you have the perfect swimming spot before or after your lunch. The balcony at Folia boasts sweeping views of the village and sea below, however, there is a more authentic local experience to be had at the street-side tables which are usually frequented by the older inhabitants of the village who spend the afternoon in discussion over a beer.

Swimming at Diakoftis beach

Also dubbed “Paradise beach”, Diakoftis is a beach that lives up to its name. Slightly tricky to find (drive around and behind the airport and take the bumpy road all the way to its end), the reward is a pristine stretch of turquoise that could leave you thinking you’ve been magically transported to the Maldives. Lined with soft white sand, the beach of Diakoftis has two sides to choose from and both promise clear, slightly cooler water. Insider tip: try to plan your trip to Diakoftis on a less windy day for maximum enjoyment.

Chasing the sunset along the west coast

After taking a late-afternoon dip at the beautiful Lefkos beach, hop in the car and follow the road along the west coast of the island. The low sunlight throws a magical glow on the rocky landscape of the island and leads you all the way to the traditional village of Olympos, where time seems to have stood still. Aside from the ladies dressed in traditional Karpathian costumes selling trinkets, you’ll find a sunset that’s so breathtaking, that even the locals stop what they’re doing to take the view in.

Sampling the local speciality – Makarounes

When the Italians invaded Karpathos in the early 1900s, they brought with them their love of pasta. Makarounes is the Karpathian combination of handmade pasta and local Greek cheese. A soft, curled pasta made from flour and water, Makarounes are usually served with sautéed onions and topped generously with grated sheep’s or goat’s cheese. Makarounes are found on almost every menu in Karpathos and must be tried at least once. You can also find them dried and available to buy in packets throughout the island to take home with you.

Spending a blissful day at Mikri Amoopi beach

For a day of doing absolutely nothing other than relaxing by the most crystal clear beach you can imagine, head directly to Mikri Amoopi beach. Located next to the larger Amoopi beach, Mikri Amoopi is a smaller bay with a handful of sun beds, often nabbed early in the day. There’s a tavern and a hotel restaurant nearby, which is a good thing because once you arrive at Mikri Amoopi, you’ll want to stay all day.

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Charming Holiday Villa on Antipaxos Island

With breathtaking views of the nearby vineyards on one side and the dreamy turquoise coastline on the other- this charming holiday villa on Antipaxos offers guests a peaceful getaway, even in the middle of the peak summer season.

Located in Iremia on the tiny 4km-long island of Antipaxos, an oasis of serenity and tranquillity, here you can just sit back, unwind and take in the majestic scenery.

The main entrance of the villa flows onto a large open-plan sitting, dining and kitchen area, featuring cozy sofas and armchairs; plus a large farmhouse table, where guests can enjoy their breakfast, lunch, or evening meals together.

Insights Greece - Charming Holiday Villa on Antipaxos Island

Featuring lofty wood-beamed ceilings and panoramic French windows, the chic villa has two bedrooms, a double with en-suite, and views of the gardens and countryside; and a double-twin with adjacent shower room.

Outside is a complete sanctuary- with an organic vegetable garden, surrounding vineyards and the enchanting coastline and sea- allowing guests to feel as though they are staying on a little piece of paradise.

Visitors can make the most of the alfresco living and dining area, as well as a shaded terrace fitted out for lounging and relaxation- as they soak in views of the sea, the Greek mainland, and the cliffs of southwest Corfu.

A few steps down from the terrace, you are greeted by a curvaceous pool and a covered outdoor kitchen and dining area, with a barbecue and a wood-fired oven; perfect for those that enjoy cooking grilled seafood or homemade pizza.

This simple yet elegant holiday villa, which accommodates up to four people, is perfect for anyone searching for a way to take a step back from the daily grind; while enjoying a slower lifestyle by the Mediterranean Sea.

Images Courtesy of The Thinking Traveller

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10 Reasons to Visit Ano Koufonissi

Ano Koufonissi is the smallest inhabited island in the Cyclades- but what it lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty, authenticity, and genuine Greek island hospitality.

Part of Koufonissia, which comprises Ano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Koufonissi; is separated by a narrow strait and the island of Keros.

This stunning little isle is actually located between Naxos and Amorgos and boasts breathtaking sandy beaches, emerald green coves, and striking sea caves. Small enough to walk around in a day, this doesn’t mean you’ll be ready to leave after 24 hours- on the contrary- Ano Koufonissi allows visitors to relax, unwind and experience traditional Cycladic Island life without the crowds; leaving you wanting more.

Keep in mind, cars are not allowed on the island, but you can easily get around by walking, cycling, and small boats. So apart from treating yourself to lazy days on the beach, here’s our list of the best things to see and do when visiting Ano Koufonissi!

1. Stroll around the charming capital Chora and discover tiny treasures including small boutiques with folk art, handmade jewellery by local artisans and a range of traditional fisherman’s hats. Roam the cobblestone streets and wander through picturesque alleyways filled with colourful shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants. Make sure you take a seat at one of the seaside taverns and enjoy a long lunch or dinner while watching the sunset.

2. Discover several sea caves at Pano Koufonissis North Cape.

3. Dive straight into the turquoise waters for a memorable swim at any of the following beaches- Finikas, Fanos, Ammos, Italida, Pori, Charakopou, Parianos, and also add the tiny beach of Gala to your list – you won’t be disappointed!

4. Savour freshly caught fish, octopus and sea urchins at one of the local seafood taverns while also drinking a shot of “rakomelo,” as the locals do.

5. Also make sure to try the locally made Xynomyzithra (a goat’s cheese served with honey as a dessert, or added to salads). Other local dishes include Patatato (beef casserole in tomato sauce with potatoes), as are the traditional sweets Pasteli on lemon leaves and Xerotigana (sweet dumplings).

6. Visit Saint Nicholas’ small church, which offers beautiful views of nearby islands. Saint George’s and Panagia’s churches are also definitely worth a visit.

7. Don’t miss a dip in Piscina, a natural pool, surrounded by rocks- it features the most beautiful turquoise waters. Dive from the top straight into the pool for an unforgettable swim.

8. For a great cultural experience and to get to know the island’s history head over to Nikitas Simos Folklore & Archaeological Collection, exhibited in the garden of Villa Ostria in Agios Georgios, it is set in a well-preserved stone building that was built in 1852.

9. Also visit the Communal Folklore Collection with displays of household and kitchen utensils, farm equipment, traditional garments, furniture, embroidery and various ornaments that highlight the island’s history, customs and traditions.

10. Don’t leave before enjoying an Aperol Spritz at Mylos (a traditional windmill that has been turned into a cool concept store/ all-day bar), or Sorokos Bar, which is also set right by the water.

Getting there…

From Athens, Koufonissia is only reachable by ferry from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. The closest airport is located on Naxos island with daily domestic flights from Athens. From Naxos, you can take a ferry to Koufonissia, as well as some other islands in the Cyclades.

Main Image by Mylos Bar ©

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Discover Milos’ Most Beautiful Beaches

Milos, with its beautiful beaches, has now become one of Greece’s most sought-after summer spots.

This Cycladic island of volcanic origin features over 70 stunning beaches – from Sarakiniko, the most famous thanks to its unique lunar landscape, to Kleftiko, with its crystal clear waters- you really are spoilt for choice here!

What makes these beaches so unique is their interesting rock formations that create an impressive landscape, and although you can’t go wrong with any of them- when visiting Milos these are the spots I highly recommend for an unforgettable swim!

Insights Greece - Discover Milos' Most Beautiful Beaches

-Start off at the one-of-a-kind, lunar landscape of Sarakiniko which is featured on countless postcards (and for a good reason).

-Then make your way over to the beach of Firiplaka for crystal clear waters and breathtaking rock scenery as its background. A huge sea boulder divides the organised part with a beach bar and sun loungers (for rent) from the “untouched” side.

-Tsigrado is a magical beach that owes its existence to perlite (a type of obsidian from the volcano of Firiplaka) that can be reached by boat or by climbing a rope ladder.

-Add the caves of Papafragas to your wish list; a long-narrow fjord-like inlet featuring blue-green waters and grey-white rocks. Swim under the caves of Papafragas, alongside the ruins of the prehistoric town of Fylakopi, while listening to the hum of the Aegean Sea, and the turquoise waters rising beside you.

– If you prefer sandy beaches then make your way over to Agios Konstantinos. Also known as Alogomandra, it features soft, fine sand and is the perfect place for a quiet swim.

– Don’t leave Milos until you’ve been to Fyropotamos, a small settlement with a lovely beach and shady trees. On the right side of the beach, you will find the “Syrmata”, which are colourful and unique- highlighting the raw beauty of Milos.

Where the locals go: The residents of Plaka, the island’s capital, head to their secret sandy beach of Plathenia, which is perfect for sunset watching as well.

Tip: On the days when the meltemia (winds) blow on the northern shores, the beaches of the southern side are ideal. At the beach of Paliochori, hot springs well up so check it out. And look out for the Mediterranean monk seal, an endangered and protected species, that roams around the Milos western coast.

Extra tip: take a tour around Milos in order to discover the famous bay of Kleftiko with crystal clear waters and perfectly white rock formations in the background, the underwater sea caves of Sykia, -among others- and certainly the uninhabited island of Polyegos with exquisite waters. I would strongly recommend choosing Thalassitra, a replica of the dominant early 20th-century, traditional Milos craft. The captain cooks (onboard) ten authentic Milos recipes in Sifnos clay dishes- making it a really memorable experience for more reasons than one.

All Images by Polina Paraskevopoulou ©

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Mini Guide to Ithaca Island

Ithaca island the birthplace of Odysseus, is set in the Ionian Sea and flies very much under the radar compared to its neighbouring islands Kefalonia and Zakynthos, however, we suggest you put Ithaca at the top of your Greek island holiday list.

Boasting stunning blue beaches, verdant green landscapes, charming villages, breathtaking views, and Venetian architecture; there is plenty to see and do when visiting the island home of Homer’s mythical hero who found peace on an island that also leaves its visitors feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after spending time here.

What to see

–Vathi, the capital of Ithaca is a beautiful spot featuring deep blue waters, natural charm, and traditional Ionian architecture. Filled with taverns, cafes, restaurants, all-day bars, museums, and boutiques, this is the main part of town where visitors have great options for wining, dining and shopping.

–Perachori, Frikes, Stavros and Anoghi are charming and authentic villages that offer wonderful views over the island; it’s also the perfect place to sit at a traditional kafenion (cafe) and catch the locals sipping slowly on their Greek coffee while chatting away.

-The caves in Ithaca are a must: check out the Cave of the Nymphs (legend has it this is where Odysseus hid the gifts of the Phaeacians), Evmaios Cave in southern Ithaca, and the Loizis Cave are also worth a visit, Loizis is named after a man who became very wealthy from selling gold coins he found in this very cave.

–Kioni a stunning fishing village is by far a stand-out! Here you’ll find gorgeous villas filled with bougainvillea, quaint taverns and cafes as well as beautiful restaurants and waterfront bars- the perfect place to catch the sunset.

– The Monastery of Panagia tis Kathariotissas, the Protector and Patron Saint of the island is situated at an altitude of 600m in the center of the island. From here you will enjoy breathtaking views of the island and Vathi.

Where to Swim

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches and bays on Ithaca and some of our favourites include: Filatro (organised beach with sunbeds), Skinos (a gorgeous secluded beach), Gidaki (which can only be reached by boat), as well as Aetos, Agios Ioannis and Sarakiniko.

Insights Greece - Mini Guide to Ithaca Island

Where to eat

Dine at Ageri tavern at the tiny port of Frikes; we also recommend O Batis, Kantouni, Serirines and Tsiribis– here you will find a great range of freshly made Greek dishes. For a cocktail or aperitif head to Spavento Café Bar, Rhapsody, or Lea’s Beach Bar in Sarakiniko.

Where to stay

Art hotels, boutique hotels, luxury villas with private pools, check out Levendis Estate, Peratntzada Hotel, Adastra Ithaca Luxury Suites, and Familia– a 19th Century olive press converted into a boutique hotel.

How to get there

There is no airport on Ithaca island, the closest is Kefalonia airport and there are no direct ferries from Athens to Ithaca, but you can reach Ithaca from Astakos, Kefalonia and Lefkada. You can also reach Ithaca from the port of Kyllini in the Peloponnese (just over 3 hour’s drive from Athens).

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Stunning New Hotel Opens in Sifnos

A stunning new hotel has opened its doors on the island of Sifnos. Featuring a rustic chic design, NOS Hotel & Villas is set amongst rugged natural beauty – making it the ideal intimate hideaway.

Located on Faros and within walking distance to some of Sifnos’ best beaches, NOS offers 18 suites, set across four stone buildings- all with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the 17th-century Monastery of Panagia Chrysopigi; an emblematic landmark of the island. Featuring bright and airy spaces, the suites effortlessly flow onto private courtyards, terraces and balconies allowing for seamless indoor/outdoor living.

Insights Greece - Stunning New Hotel Opens in Sifnos

Designed by Athens-based K-Studio, the property is inspired by nearby authentic villages. This is mainly highlighted by the natural materials used throughout the space- including stone, marble, and lime mortar. With smooth finishes and earthy décor throughout- the suites feature ceramic basins and woven stools that have been made by local craftsmen, as well as original artwork created specifically for the hotel by local artists.

The property also offers an on-site restaurant with a delightful menu created by award-winning Executive Chef Athinagoras Kostakos. The eatery is set on a dreamy terrace, while dishes are made with ingredients sourced from local producers, offering guests Mediterranean flavours with a modern twist. There is also an impressive wine cellar filled with handpicked varieties from the hotel’s sommeliers, who have carefully chosen reds and whites from all over Greece and other parts of the world.

Only 200 m from Faros Beach, 300 m from Fassolou Beach, and less than 1 km from Chrysopigi beach – it’s the perfect spot for those who love the sun and sand. NOS Hotel & Suites also features free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, an open-air spa, as well as a bar, and a garden; plus a 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service, a shuttle service, and free WiFi throughout the property.

A: Faros, Sifnos

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Seaside Holiday Villa on Serifos Island

Boasting uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea and the beauty of the surrounding landscape, this stunning holiday villa in Serifos is the perfect getaway for those seeking privacy and tranquility.

Located in Kalo Ampeli, the property is just 200m from the sea, and a short drive and walk to a beautiful sandy beach that’s considered one of the best on Serifos island.

The elegant stone villa, which also has two smaller guest houses, is built on the cliff and sits poised over the sea overlooking the gulf of “Kalo Ampeli.” Offering maximum privacy and complete Cycladic ambiance – the villa and houses can be rented separately or together upon request.

Insights Greece - Seaside Holiday Villa on Serifos Island

The villa, which is a perfect mix of traditional and contemporary architecture features open and airy spaces with an array of windows that offer natural light and provide breathtaking views from each room. The master bedroom leads onto a terrace with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

Inside, the holiday home is adorned with stylish, modern furniture and appliances. The lounge is the ideal place to unwind after a day in the sun- with a comfortable sofa and a fireplace. There is also a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and WiFi throughout. The kitchen is very well equipped, allowing guests to prepare breakfast, lunch or dinner at their leisure- and the dining table seats eight.

Outside on the large rustic chic balcony, guests can dine alfresco, or relax with a glass of wine in hand, as they enjoy the evening sunsets – or the majestic sea views in the morning.

The holiday home is in a fabulous position for summer getaways as Kalo Ampeli beach is close by and is one of the best protected beaches on the island; other wonderful spots for swimming include Ganema, Vagia and Psili Ammos, which has previously been named one of the best beaches in Europe (20 minute drive). Guests can also visit some nearby museums, old mines, sea caves and in 15 minutes you will arrive at the island’s centre, the Hora, and the Livadi village, where you’ll find a range of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.

The home is ideal for both adults seeking a quiet and relaxed vacation, or for large groups of friends who want to enjoy quality time together while exploring all Serifos has to offer.

View the holiday villa here

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Stunning New Holiday Villa in Sifnos

If you are searching for a relaxing and peaceful Greek island getaway with family or friends, this stunning new holiday villa in Sifnos- for up to 14 guests- is the ideal place to stay.

Located in the mainland village of Exampela, “Dali” boasts panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the rough plains of Sifnos, an island in the Cyclades that boasts breathtaking landscapes, lively traditions, and rich culinary heritage.

Featuring inviting, airy spaces where minimalism and natural materials create a soft, calm ambiance- it is designed to host those who enjoy lounging, outdoor dining, and relaxing by the private pool- in between exploring the island.

Insights Greece - Stunning New Holiday Villa in Sifnos

Consisting of three separate units and an independent guest house, the villa is surrounded by olive trees and local herbs and flora. Its immaculate design and interior decoration with built-in beds, traditionally styled showers and light beige hues let the light and the Aegean airflow unobstructed throughout all its interior spaces.

The main house is split into 3 different units – a two-storey floor and the other two ground level. The ground floor of the main unit hosts a large living room with a fireplace and built-in sofas and a fully-equipped kitchen with a dining area. A master, king-sized en-suite bedroom with sea and pool views is also found on this floor. The lower floor can sleep 4-6 people in two double en-suite bedrooms, each with a sofa-bed for 1 adult, that can be also accessed from outside.

The second unit is perfect for a couple that needs privacy and seclusion as it boasts a king-size en-suite bedroom and an exterior, pergola-shaded sitting area. The same goes for the guesthouse that also features a kitchenette and a small living room. Four more guests can sleep in the second unit of the house that offers two double en-suite bedrooms with a shared entrance and separate outdoor pergola-shaded areas.

In front of the villa, the infinity pool is surrounded by several cushioned sunbeds while there is plenty of space for lounging in the pergola-shaded area with its large sofa, coffee tables and poufs. The veranda of the villa also hosts an outdoor fire pit and a barbeque with a dining area for 16 people.

Those who want to stay fit will love the outdoor gym that is found in a separate pergola-shaded area and there is also a boule court and plenty of entertainment for the entire family.

Discover more about Villa Dali here

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Greece’s First Nobu Hotel and Restaurant to Open in Santorini

Nobu Hospitality, the premier luxury lifestyle brand founded by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro and film producer Meir Teper has announced its first hotel and restaurant project in Greece- the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini- set to open this spring.

Located on Santorini’s stunning Imerovigli, Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini will, of course, feature the signature Nobu Restaurant, as well as a luxurious spa, fitness centre, two-level infinity pool, and five pool villas that each boasts breathtaking views of both the Caldera and Aegean Sea from its clifftop perch.

Insights Greece - Greece's First Nobu Hotel and Restaurant to Open in Santorini

The hotel that focuses on unique Nobu food experiences will boast a modern design and stunning spaces inspired by its calm and picturesque Cycladic surroundings. The interior and poolside design will feature minimalist and sleek décor- with a touch of Japanese tradition- that is synonymous with Nobu properties worldwide.

The hotel is 20 minutes from Santorini (Thira) International Airport and sits along the famed hiking trail that runs between Oia and Fira, Santorini’s capital.

With hotels in Ibiza, London, Las Vegas, Los Cabos, and Malibu, the property in Santorini will become the 26th Nobu Hotel worldwide and the tenth in Europe.

Nobu Hotel

Images by Christos Drazos | Courtesy of Nobu Santorini

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Simple Dining by the Aegean Sea at Leros Island

Sit with your feet in the sand at a table a mere metre away from the Aegean Sea- enjoying simple and fresh seafood dishes and a glass of homemade wine, at this lovely family-run taverna on Leros island.

Whether you are looking for a place to enjoy some mezedes and a cold beer after a long swim at the beach, or a casual dining venue to sample some delicious lobster spaghetti under the stars – “Prima & Aneplora” in Alinda village is the perfect spot.

Insights Greece - Simple Dining by the Aegean Sea at Leros Island

This unique taverna is right on the water’s edge at the far end of Alinda village. Offering a predominantly seafood menu, there’s also a wide range of meat and vegetarian options for those that aren’t big on fish.

Antonis, the charming owner is a wonderful host and cook, who enjoys giving recommendations to his guests- especially when it comes to revealing the specials of the day, which are always a good option!

From delicious shrimp saganaki and grilled swordfish to soft kolokithokeftedes (zucchini fritters) and fresh horta (wild greens) drizzled with olive oil and lemon- the simple yet authentic dishes are all made from local produce.

If you do like your seafood (as we do) we recommend the octopus, shrimp, mussels and calamari, which pair perfectly with a side of fava (yellow split peas puree), tiganites patates (homemade fries) and a traditional Greek salad.

And if you plan on getting there in the evening, we suggest bringing a cardigan as it can get a little breezy, otherwise, you can also choose to eat on the terrace, which is also a nice option as the beautiful bay and castle are still in full view!

Offering a unique and laid-back atmosphere, at “Prima & Aleproma” you will experience delicious Greek island cuisine while relaxing and soaking up Lemnos’ authentic beauty.

A: Alinda, Leros

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Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island

With numerous bicycle lanes in the main town and wonderful cycling routes around the island, there’s no better way to explore Kos’ cultural and historical sites than hopping on a bike!

From Hippocrates’ tree where the famous Father of Medicine practiced his therapies to Therma (hot springs) on the east coast of Kos or beautiful Zia where you can enjoy a fabulous meal and the stunning sunset- the adventurous cycling routes in Kos are endless!

Insights Greece - Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island — Cycling around Kos’ port

Located in the Dodecanese, the flat terrain of the island makes cycling an easy and popular means of transport for both locals and international visitors. Here you will find locals on their bikes heading to work, school, or to the shops; and will be sharing the lanes with visitors who are exploring Kos’ main town, beaches, and historical sites along the way. It’s also the perfect way to admire the historic buildings until you reach a café, restaurant, or bar of your choice so you can sit down for a relaxing drink and some food- before you start riding again.

Just this month, Greece’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister Michalis Papadopoulos announced that Kos is emerging as a prime biking destination, and during the event, Papapopoulos highlighted Greece’s efforts to establish a National EuroVelo Coordination Center that would promote cycling tourism in Greece.

“Currently there are 6.5 thousand bikes available for rent on Kos island– a huge advantage for the development of bike tourism,” Papadopoulos said.

Exploring Kos’ main town by bike is a great experience and highly recommended. Featuring a 13km cycle lane stretching right along the waterfront, the bicycle path of Kos begins from Faros beach all the way through to the end of the beach at Psalidi, with a distance of about 13 km. With many side roads, some of which lead into the city of Kos, cyclists can choose which path they would like to discover first.

For those who are more confident cyclists, there are routes through mountains and dirt roads, overlooking the stunning nature on one side and the panoramic view of the island of Kos on the other. There are many paved roads, with limited traffic that will lead to charming villages and beaches beyond the centre of town, including some of the island’s most popular beaches- Tigaki and Marmari.

On the island, visitors can find many bicycle rental shops, with bikes suitable for all ages, levels of experience, and tastes. Ranging from road bikes to mountain bikes up to tandem bikes (for two riders); others prefer to take part in organised cycling tours, which can be booked while on the island or in advance.

Our Insiders’ Guide to ‘Hippocrates’ Island’ of Kos

bike riding Kos cycling destinations cycling in Kos Dodecanese Greece holiday Greece travel Greek island holiday Greek islands Kos Kos island

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The second-largest island of the Dodecanese, Karpathos is a picture of wild, untouched beauty.

With breathtaking views of the nearby vineyards on one side and the dreamy turquoise coastline on the other- this charming holiday villa on Antipaxos offers guests a peaceful getaway, even in the middle of the peak summer season.

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Ithaca island the birthplace of Odysseus, is set in the Ionian Sea and flies very much under the radar compared to its neighbouring islands Kefalonia and Zakynthos, however, we suggest you put Ithaca at the top of your Greek island holiday list.

A stunning new hotel has opened its doors on the island of Sifnos. Featuring a rustic chic design, NOS Hotel & Villas is set amongst rugged natural beauty – making it the ideal intimate hideaway.

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With numerous bicycle lanes in the main town and wonderful cycling routes around the island, there’s no better way to explore Kos’ cultural and historical sites than hopping on a bike!

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