You Need to Visit These 5 Small Greek Islands

In all her splendor I present to you the BTSG (behind the scenes of Greece) and 5 small islands you need to explore on your next trip to the Mediterranean.

Ahh the Greek islands, what an incredible place. Cats roam the cobblestone; wine is served by the litre, and it is rude not to take food when it is offered to you (making you quite plump indeed). Among these things to remember, is the fact that the cliched islands such as Santorini, Mykonos and Ios aren’t the only memorable ones.

In all her splendour I present to you the BTSG (behind the scenes of Greece) and 5 small islands you need to explore on your next trip to the Mediterranean. Trust me, You Need to Visit These 5 Small Greek Islands.

1. FOLEGANDROS

Located between Paros and Santorini, Folegandros has a lot to offer. Relatively untouched by tourists, this island boasts beautiful Cycladic Architecture (narrow alleyways, colourful windows and whitewashed houses) and is an ideal place for island hoping around the Cyclades. Don't miss the view on the hill above Chora which sits the trademark of the island, Panagia church. The zig-zagged alleyway leading up to the church will make your Instagram stories pop with questions of 'Where is that?!'

2. HYDRA

Recently returning from my usual yearly summer trip to Greece, I am happy to say that I have found a new island to fall in love with. Hydra is something else, the food, the people, the water! Are you kidding me? There's no wonder Leonard Cohen published three books while living there between 1960-1967. The island doesn't have cars and locals can be seen transporting goods via donkey or water taxi which is honestly so novel and I'm here for it. Hydra is a perfect destination if you don't have time to see many islands further from Athens as it is just a 1 hr 50 min ferry ride from Piraeus on the SpeedCat (reminded me of the CityCat's in Brisbane). My friend and I stayed at Astraea 5 which was a stone's throw away from the port and only 550m from Avlaki Beach where we spent most of our time relaxing, drawing and swimming in the pristine water. Pictured is the view from the Hydra Path lookout onto Paralia Vlichos.

3. KASTELLORIZO

Known for being the most remote island of Greece, located on the easternmost edge of Dodecanese and 2km away from Turkey, Kastellorizo gained its fame for being the island where a lot of Mediterranean films were shot. Today, Kastellorizo has a population of 275 inhabitants, making it a perfect destination for your quiet summer escape (that is, if you don't get into the politics of the Greek Vs Turkey debate over the island). Luckily, there's red castles and blue caves to run away to when it all gets a bit too much.

4. SYMI

Another beautiful island, a part of the Dodecanese island group, is the island of Symi. Surrounded by colourful neoclassical houses with postcard-like mansions dotted around the port, Symi is definitely next on the list to explore. On the southwest coast you will find the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis which is an 18th-century Monastery and a major Greek Orthodox pilgrimage site. Less than two hours away from Rhodes and Kos, this island is popular for day-trips and also an excellent choice for an overnight stay. So what are you waiting for?

5. KOUFOUNISIA

Look at that image, I mean come on! I don't think I need to do much convincing for this island. Absolutely incredible. But let me tell you more about Koufonisia. Koufonisia is actually a set of two islands, Ano Koufonisia & Kato Koufonisia. Described by bloggers as casting a spell that is lingering and languid; Koufonisia is not to be missed. Ano island is more lively and party vibes, whereas Kato is untouched by mass tourism and is inhabited. I know where I'll be heading next summer.

So pack your bags because Greek summer 2024 is almost here and I know where I'll be. But where will you be?

If you want to read more about my time on my grandfather's island of Kythira, click here.

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Until next time lovelies,

EG X