1 - 2 of 2 Posts

redsoxdw_

Active member
I want to travel to Greece next year to someplace a bit more out of the way. The last time I was in Greece, I was in peak season and hit all the popular places, and I found it to be stressful at times. For example,I couldn't find a place to stand for the Oia sunset. It was PACKED. Thought I'd try some out of the way places this time. My research has pulled up the following so far - feel free to chime in with any advice or anything to add!

Anafi

Anafi is a tiny island located in the Cyclades, just a short ferry ride from Santorini. Despite its proximity to the popular tourist hotspot, Anafi is a quiet and peaceful island that is largely untouched by tourism. With stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and an unspoiled countryside, Anafi is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and beach aficionados. The island’s main settlement, Chora, is a charming village with whitewashed houses and narrow streets that offers a glimpse into traditional Greek island life.

Folegandros

Folegandros is another island in the Cyclades that is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. This small island boasts crystal-clear waters, picturesque villages, and breathtaking views of the Aegean. With no airport and limited ferry connections, Folegandros retains a calm and authentic atmosphere that makes it popular amongst travelers looking to escape the crowds. Take a walk through the quaint alleys of the main village of Chora, have a dip in the secluded beach of Agios Nikolaos, or hike the trails of the island's untouched countryside.

Alonissos

Located in the Sporades group of islands, Alonissos is a hidden gem that has largely been overlooked by mainstream tourism. This charming island boasts a natural beauty that is truly breathtaking, thanks to its unspoiled natural landscapes that are protected as a marine park. Crystal-clear waters, quiet coves, and stunning beaches make it a paradise for beach seekers, while its rugged countryside is perfect for hikers. Along with its picturesque villages and friendly locals, Alonissos offers visitors a peaceful respite from the hectic pace of modern life.

Amorgos

Located in the eastern Cyclades, Amorgos is a rugged, unspoiled island that is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Greece. From the awe-inspiring Chora, perched on the edge of a cliff, to the dramatic coastline and the beautiful beaches like Mouros and Agia Anna, Amorgos has a lot to offer for those willing to venture off the beaten path. The island is also renowned for the impressive Byzantine monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, which clings to the side of a cliff and offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

Sikinos

Sikinos is a tiny island located in the eastern Cyclades that is often overlooked by tourists. The island boasts a unique landscape that combines rugged coastline, rolling hills, and lush valleys. With few cars and no noisy crowds, Sikinos is a peaceful haven for travelers looking to slow down and connect with nature. Spend some time wandering the narrow streets of the picturesque village of Chora, relax on the unspoiled beaches like Aghios Georgios and Dialiskari, or embark on a hike to explore the island's wildlife and flora.
 
I have never been to any of these places but they sound great! Hopefully other people can chime in with their experiences.
 

First Time Tips to Greece

I've been fortunate enough to visit Greece quite a few times over the years, and recently a friend asked me for advice before their very first trip. It surprised me how difficult it was to answer!

Once you've traveled somewhere often, you start taking a lot of things for granted. I'm not sure what the most helpful tips would be for someone experiencing Greece for the first time.

If you were helping a first-time visitor, what advice would you give? I'm thinking about practical things, cultural etiquette, transportation, money, restaurants, pacing an itinerary, or even little things you wish someone had told you before your first visit.

What are the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make, and what are some experiences you think every newcomer should have? I'd love to pass along some advice from people with firsthand experience.

Is Island Hopping Worth the Effort?

I've been thinking about trying an island-hopping trip the next time I visit Greece, but I'm wondering if it's actually worth the extra planning and travel time. In the past I've usually picked one island and stayed there for the duration of my vacation, which has been relaxing and let me really get to know the area.

Part of me loves the idea of experiencing several islands in one trip since they each seem to have their own personality, food, scenery, and traditions. On the other hand, I wonder if constantly packing, catching ferries, and checking into new accommodations takes away from the experience.

For those of you who have island-hopped, did you feel it was worth it? How many islands did you visit, and did you wish you had spent more time in fewer places? I'd love to hear your itineraries, tips, and whether you'd do it the same way again.

A Greek Architect’s Guide to Choosing a Professional CT Limo Service

I’m originally from Greece and work as an architect, and due to a recent job rotation, I’ve relocated to Connecticut for corporate projects. Since I’m still getting familiar with the area, I’ve been researching reliable CT limo service options for business travel, airport transfers, and professional meetings. I’ve noticed there are several technical factors people often overlook, such as fleet maintenance standards, chauffeur training, proper licensing, insurance coverage, and real-time ride tracking, all of which seem important for safety and reliability. I came across Wood Black Car Service during my comparisons, which piqued my curiosity about how different companies manage their operations behind the scenes. For those who regularly use limousine services in Connecticut, what features or standards do you think matter most when choosing a truly professional provider?

Places to go for the first time in Greece?

A friend of mine is planning her first trip to Greece, and she asked me what she should prioritize for about 10 days. I’ve been lucky enough to go quite a few times, so I gave her a starting point: Athens for the history, Santorini for the views, and Mykonos for the energy and beaches.

She loved that outline, but she wants to add one more destination to round out the trip. That’s where I started second guessing myself a bit, because there are so many good options depending on what kind of experience she wants.

I was thinking maybe somewhere a little different to balance things out, but I’m curious what others would suggest. If you had 10 days and those three spots already planned, what would be your fourth destination for a first-time visitor?

Which Greek island feels the least touristy in the summer?

I know that July and August are busy almost everywhere in Greece, especially on the more famous islands, but I’m curious about places that still feel relatively local and relaxed even during peak season.

I’m not necessarily looking for somewhere completely empty. I’d just love an island where you can still find traditional villages, local tavernas, quieter beaches, and a slower pace without feeling like the entire island is built around tourism.

Have you visited an island in the summer that still felt authentic and not overly crowded? I’d especially be interested in places where locals still seem to set the rhythm of daily life rather than visitors.

Which island would you recommend, and what made it feel less touristy to you? Was it the beaches, villages, restaurants, fewer cruise ships, or just the overall atmosphere?
Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top