Santorini's ancient Cycladic architecture (picture whitewashed structures with domed blue roofs) is the most beautiful island in Greece, making this archipelago one of Greece's most beautiful and visited. Due to its volcanic origin, the main island of Thira has spectacular black and red sand beaches as well as well-preserved archaeological ruins. The majority of them are centered in central Santorini and may be viewed on a vineyard tour. Beautiful beaches and magnificent whitewashed mansions still protect what remains of this fabled metropolis. Santorini is now made up of two inhabited islands and various islets.

Where to stay in Santorini: Trendy pretenders come and go, but Perivolas remains the most sophisticated and serene option. If you don't mind crowds, take over Perivolas Hideaway, beachfront home on Santorini's hidden branch, Thirassia, or Erosantorini, a breathtaking clifftop estate with a tiered pool dropping 1,000 feet to the sea. Because of the pleasant staff and effortlessly elegant décor, The Vasilikos, the former vacation home of a larger-than-life art collector, still seems very much like home. We recommend Eolia Superior Villa on Airbnb for a villa stay because of its common living area, unique archways, and dazzling blue sea views.

Location: Aegean Sea, 200 km southeast of Athens, 150 km south of Mykonos, and 140 km north of Crete.

The island of Corfu (sometimes called Korfu or Kerkyra) continues to draw weary tourists wishing to escape the rush and bustle of everyday life, having served as the background for epic tales by both Homer and Shakespeare. The sight of its beautiful green terrain, along with the aroma of olives and citrus from neighboring orchards, is enough to melt away any worry. And the sensation of the wide, pebbly beaches beneath your feet, or the glimpse of the Ionian Sea's cerulean waves, is enough to make you feel as if you've discovered heaven.

Where to stay in Corfu: Plum Guide offers a variety of private house rentals on the island, ranging from one-bedroom hideaways with their own pools to enormous villas with accommodation for the entire crew. The Ice Cold Martini villa, named after its appearance in the Bond film For Your Eyes Only, can sleep up to 18 people. If you’d rather go all-inclusive, check into the smart Ikos Dassia, a favorite haunt of The Durrells cast and crew. A Mini Cooper for touring around the island is included as a guest amenity.

Location:Ionian Sea, several miles west off of Greece's northwest coast and Albania's southwest coast

At the island's tavernas, everyone will enjoy savoring authentic Cretan delicacies such as graviera (a Gruyere-like cheese) and dakos (a twice-baked bread covered with tomato, oregano, and olive oil). Especially, Crete is one of the best islands in Greece. The Greek island of Crete might be described in one word: "diverse." Sandy beaches are hidden among rising mountains, palm tree groves grow in the center of vast plains, and vibrant contemporary towns coexist with centuries-old architecture along coastlines. And, speaking of cities, they mirror the people who came before them in Crete. The streets are dotted with architecture inspired by the Minoans, Venetians, and Ottomans, as well as modern Greeks. Despite its obvious inconsistencies, this island retains a sense of oneness that can be felt whether you walk along the street, dine at a local taverna, or sip raki at a sidewalk café.

Where to stay in Crete: Ammos Hotel, located on a sandy bay near Chania, cleverly mixes Scandi elegance with a kid-friendly ambiance. Kapsaliana Village Hotel, a 300-year-old village encircled by olive orchards, emanates serene authenticity. With its spiral stone Isola Beach Club and thalassotherapy treatment, Blue Palace Resort & Spa outperforms the (tough) competition in Elounda. Cretan Malia Park isn't in the most beautiful section of the island, but it's the island's greatest new resort — effortlessly hip without being forced.

Location: the south of the Greek mainland in the Mediterranean Sea.

Hydra, located in the Saronic Gulf southwest of Athens, distinguishes out from its neighbors due to its absence of motor vehicles. That's correct, you'll have to walk or ride a donkey through the cobblestone streets. But that's a big part of Hydra's allure for visitors. While you're here, wander the island's pebbly beaches and visit its picturesque seaside villages, such as Hydra Town, where you'll find traditional residences and some of Hydra's greatest nightlife places.

Hydra, which rises like an emerald from the blue depths of the Saronic Gulf, is a quiet and tranquil land of rocky hilltops and shaded pine forests. The island is a remarkable jewel, having easily kept its true character and traditional attractions. It is a popular summertime getaway for well-heeled Athenians and the international arts community. Hydra has a strong marine culture and is one of Greece's most popular yachting destinations, home to the famed Kamini Yacht Club and a variety of charter businesses.

Where to stay in Hydra: The nine-room Orloff Boutique Hotel, built in 1796, has old-world elegance. Take over one of the island's Airbnbs, such as Anemos, a beachfront home with a heated pool in Porto Cheli, if a pool is a must.

Location:the Aegean Sea between the Myrtoan Sea and the Argolic Gulf.

Despite the fact that most of Kefalonia's gorgeous Venetian architecture was destroyed after an earthquake in 1953, the island still has a mystical feel about it due to its diversified geography. Explore picturesque villages such as Assos and Fiskardo to see colorful dwellings and stunning churches. Then, relax on one of the island's sandy or pebbly beaches, or go snorkeling or scuba diving in the lovely blue ocean. Hike to the summit of Megas Soros (the island's highest peak) in Mount Ainos National Park for an adrenaline rush, or explore one of Kefalonia's underground caves.

And several of the protected coves surrounding Kefalonia (one of the best islands in Greece) are great for snorkeling — the pristine waters of Atheras Beach in the northwest, as well as Agia Effimia in the north-east, are home to some gorgeous fish. Agios Thomas beach in the south boasts stunning clear shallow water that stays warm, which is ideal if you're beginning to snorkel with smaller children. If you're lucky, you could see an octopus or a turtle, but there should be plenty of fish hidden amid the seagrass.

Where to stay in Cephalonia: The family-owned F Zeen stretches out over the steep and green slopes of Livathos in natural-stone villas and sun-bleached terraces with rustic tables and pools, all commanding views of the Ionian Sea. Emelisse, which overlooks Fiskardo, is a family-friendly hotel with a fantastic Elemis spa.

Location: right opposite the Gulf of Corinth and is only 30 km from the coast of the Peloponnese.

Because Naxos is the biggest of the Cyclades, there is a lot more shore to go about. There are several beaches to choose from, ranging from famous Plaka to low-key Alyko, as well as numerous water sports activities. Naxos is an ideal site for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the wind on the west side of the island, so sign up for a class. Make time to visit ancient ruins such as the temples of Apollo, Demeter, and Dionysus.

Anyone who decides to spend their vacation on Naxos will be rewarded, for the island provides something for everyone. Enjoy yourself, for example, on one of the many lovely beaches. Aside from quiet, lonely areas for newlyweds, there are beaches with a variety of water sports activities, beach cafés, and pubs. There's also an aqua park just outside the city for the kids.

Where to stay in Naxos: Corona Borealis is a seven-suite refuge with a sunset-facing pool and a secluded cove where you can dine beneath the stars. Above Agios Prokopios beach, Kavos is a low-key complex of boxy white houses situated among vivid bursts of bougainvillea, geraniums, and roses. The adults-only Naxian on the Beach is located on Plaka beach, just a few sandy feet from the sea. The ten rooms are furnished in bamboo, wicker, and aged wood, while the restaurant, Tortuga, attracts honey-toned locals with its modern comfort cuisine and beach-shack ambiance.

Location: the Aegean Sea

Mykonos' cube-shaped structures and whitewashed exteriors scream the Mediterranean. Winding lanes wind through Chora's main city center, through luxury stores and stunning churches that provide the island with a grounded sense of Greek history. Mykonos, on the other hand, is known for its boisterous beach parties and vibrant nightlife. You're never far from a party at the "Ibiza of Greece" at any time of day because it is one of the best islands in Greece. Mykonos' silky sand beaches are the main lure, aside from its wild nightlife. Vacationers come to see and be seen – ahem – frequently in their underwear.

Where to stay in Mykonos: If you're coming to the party, stay at Soho Roc Houseguests get privileged access to Scorpios and the poolside scene is smoking. Santa Marina resort, on the other hand, tumbles down a secluded peninsula with a full-fledged spa, a hidden sandy beach, and a Riva to take you off to Nammos or Scorpios, if you can pull yourself away from your canopied sunbed. If you want to be right in the middle of everything, try Branco on Platis Gialos beach or The Belvedere, Hora's gold standard. Take over the Airbnb Villa Fleur de Sel for a group stay, a wonderfully built room sleeping 12 with an infinity pool and BBQ.

Location: part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros, and Naxos.

Skiathos is the smallest of the Sporades islands, which include peaceful Alonnisos and the gorgeous Mamma Mia! setting of Skopelos, but it's by far the most popular, particularly with families who come for the baby powder-soft sandy beaches and laid-back feel. The island offers some of Greece's best beaches, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south being the most famous and crowded (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, accessible only by a steep, winding drive through pine trees, are more rocky and windy, but no less gorgeous — coming into Elia beach, with its crystal-clear water and rickety wooden taverna, is like entering into a small slice of paradise.

Where to stay in Skiathos: Until the Elivi debuted in 2018, the island was not recognized for its smart hotels. The hotel, located on a hilltop on the Punta peninsula, provides attractively appointed rooms and is within walking distance of four of the island's most stunning beaches. White Key manages several stunning rental homes, like Villa Orelia, which has its own open-air theater.

Location: Northern Sporades, after the island of Skiathos.