Best things to do Karpathos
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Honeymoon in Greece: Best islands + Itineraries

Greece is one of the few honeymoon destinations that totally lives up to its hype. It has a perfect combo of beautiful beaches, idyllic villages and amazing food. Not to mention epic luxurious hotels and a vast cultural heritage to enjoy. While the idyllic islands of Santorini and Mykonos are often considered the quintessential honeymoon spots, let me share a secret with you – there’s a multitude of lesser-known, but equally beautiful islands that offer just as much, if not more, to newlyweds seeking an authentic and unforgettable honeymoon in Greece.

With a staggering 250 inhabited islands to choose from, finding the perfect destination for your honeymoon may feel like a daunting task. But the good news is you’ve come to the right place. In this post, you’ll find a highly curated selection of the 10 best islands to honeymoon in Greece, accompanied by exclusive itinerary suggestions. Use the index below to navigate through the post and let’s embark uncover the best Greece has to offer to newlywed couples!

Index
  1. Practical advice for honeymooning in Greece
  2. The best Greek Islands for honeymoon
  3. Best Greek islands to honeymoon by region
  4. How to plan a honeymoon in Greece: itinerary suggestions
  5. How much does it cost to honeymoon in the Greek Islands ?
Honeymoon in Greece
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Practical advice for honeymooning in Greece

Before exploring the best islands to honeymoon in Greece (beyond Santorini), let me share some practical advice to help you plan your trip:

Best time to honeymoon in Greece: The end of spring (May to June) and late summer (September to early October) are ideal times to visit Greece. These periods offer fewer crowds and lower rates compared to peak summer. However, if you prefer to experience the vibrant Greek summer, you can visit between June and August. Just keep in mind that costs will be higher and the beaches will be more crowded. Especially in August which is the main summer vacation month for Europeans.

How to get to Greece: Flying to Athens is the fastest and most practical way to reach Greece. The Eleftherios Venizelos airport in Athens has good connections to many places. Some islands and Thessaloniki in northern Greece also have airports. The best place to land and depart in Greece depends on your honeymoon itinerary, but I recommend planning an incoming or outgoing flight from Athens. This way you’ll be able to explore this magnificent capital!

Best islands honeymoon Greece
Greece honeymoon itinerary

How to move around Greece: There are multiple flight and ferry routes connecting mainland Greece to the islands and different islands within a specific region. Depending on your plans, it may be a good idea to rent a car in Athens and drive to the Greek Islands. That’s exactly what we did when we explored the Ionian Islands.

Is Greece a safe country? Yes, Greece is one of the safest countries we’ve visited. Like in most destinations, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. But otherwise, relax and enjoy the serene and welcoming Greek atmosphere.

Currency in Greece: Greece uses the Euro as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, not only in Athens but also in the Greek Islands. We recommend using an international card like Wise to avoid ATM and bank fees. Get your Wise card now for free!

Do I need travel insurance to visit Greece? Not all travelers are required to have a travel insurance policy to enter the European Union. However, it’s always worth traveling protected against unforeseen complications and health issues. You may get your travel insurance here!

The best Greek Islands for honeymoon

Santorini and Mykonos are the most classic destinations for a honeymoon in Greece. However, their ever-increasing popularity on social media has led to overcrowding, inflated prices, and lack of authenticity. Which unfortunately hinders the intimate and magical experience that newlyweds seek.

I know this may sound like bad news if you’ve always dreamt of spending your honeymoon in a serene island in Greece. But don’t worry there’re so many equally enchanting islands in the country to visit during your honeymoon. Some of them are even more beautiful than Santorini, if I may say. Below is a list of our top 10 honeymoon destinations in Greece:

1) Kefalonia

Amidst the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea, lies a hidden gem of Greece – Kefalonia. A dreamy paradise that has stolen our hearts and earned the title of our favorite Greek Island to date. Its stunning beaches, charming villages, and captivating landscapes create the most perfect setting for a romantic trip. Perhaps the best in the whole of Greece.

I vividly recall Eric, awestruck by the island’s beauty during our boat ride from Fteri Beach, posing a question that has since lingered in my mind: “where can we possibly go on a honeymoon that’s more beautiful than this island?” The answer, my friends, remains elusive. Honestly, I cannot think of a better place to honeymoon in Greece than Kefalonia.

Ionian Islands in Greece Travel guide, best islands and suggested itinerary

Kefalonia encapsulates everything a honeymoon destination should offer – raw beauty, authenticity, and immaculate culinary offerings. And what’s even better? The luxurious honeymoon-worthy hotels on the island are surprisingly affordable. Making of Kefalonia the perfect alternative to the more popular Greek islands like Santorini.

To fully immerse yourselves in the magic of Kefalonia, I would recommend staying at least 6 days on the island. Renting a car is highly advisable as it gives you the freedom to explore its breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and hidden gems at your own pace.

Honeymoon hotels in Kefalonia

Read the our super complete guide to Kefalonia here

2) Zakynthos

Zakynthos has become an internet sensation with the views of its most famous beach: Navaggio Beach. But the truth is, there’s so much more to this island than that one Insta-famous spot. This is an island filled with turquoise beaches and charming villages. This island exuds a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for honeymooners seeking a romantic escape surrounded by nature.

Unleash your sense of adventure and venture to the wild beaches that line the shores of Zakynthos. Renting a self-skippered boat and exploring the coast of Zakynthos is the best way to experience the island as a couple. There’s nothing like the thrill of discovering your own hidden cove, with no one else around. It really feels like you’re creating a private connection to this magnificent island, and it gets even better when you’re sharing this moment with the love of your life.

Stay for at least 5 days to enjoy the best Zakynthos has to offer. Rent a car, as there’s much do explore in the mainland as well.

Honeymoon hotels in Zakynthos

There’s so many great hotels in Kazynthos for a honeymoon trip. These are our favorites:

3) Ithaca

Nestled within the tranquil waters of the Ionian Sea lies a hidden gem known as Ithaca. This small yet mighty island boasts stunning beaches and picturesque villages, making it the perfect romantic haven for newlyweds in Greece. Despite its modest size, Ithaca’s beauty rivals that of its larger neighbor, Kefalonia. In fact, the two islands are a match made in heaven and can easily be combined in a 7-10 day itinerary, as they’re only a 30-minute ferry ride away from each other.

But don’t limit yourself to just the shores. There are charming villages and attractions just a car ride away from Vathi, the island’s capital. With so much to see and do, I recommend staying for at least 4 full days. Renting a car is highly advisable.

Honeymoon hotels in Ithaca Greece

There aren’t 5 start boutique hotels in Ithaca, so these are your best options:

4) Paxos & Antipaxos

Nestled to the South of Corfu, these two islands are a dream come true. The compact yet enchanting Paxos and Antipaxos offer the ultimate backdrop for a dreamy honeymoon in Greece. The atmosphere is enchanting and intimate and a special highlight goes to Voutoumi Beach, the crown jewel of the Ionian Sea. This standout beach boasts with its crystalline waters that rival those of the Maldives.

Apart from perfect beaches, what sets these islands apart is their serene tranquility, even during peak season. Here, you won’t find yourself battling through hordes of tourists or competing for a spot on the sand. Instead, you and your beloved can bask in the peaceful nature on these untouched islands. I recommend a stay of 3-5 nights in Paxos, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit Antipaxos by taxi-boat for its amazing beaches.

Honeymoon hotels in Paxos

Paxos is not well know for top-notch hotels, but here are some good options:

5) Karpathos

Karpathos is one of the most underrated islands in Greece. Placed between Crete and Rhodes, this is one more Greek island filled with jaw-dropping beaches and landscapes. This hidden paradise remains off the mainstream radar, which adds to its charm. Here, you’ll find untouched beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a top pick for couples wanting a honeymoon spot away from the crowds.

We loved taking a leisure stroll through Olympos village, a place where history lingers in every corner. Time seemed to stand still in this magical place, but we made sure to reserve a moment to indulge in a romantic dinner under the iconic windmills of Milos Taverna. The real highlight of Karpathos lies in its breathtaking beaches, especially the unspoiled shores of Apella Beach. The crystal clear waters are an invitation for refreshing plunges and you should definitely plan for at least a full day there.

Karpathos Greece honeymoon
Karpathos Greece honeymoon

If you’re up for something a bit daring, walk the trail at the right end of Appela and head to a nudist beach. Don’t worry, it’s a family-friendly destination where respect is the golden rule. Think about it – what could be more exhilarating than swimming freely in the refreshing Aegean waters with your beloved by your side?

Make sure to plan for at least 5 days in Karpathos. Trust me, you’ll need that time to truly explore, unwind, and soak in all the beauty it has to offer. Renting a car will be your ticket to discovering the island’s hidden gems. Karpathos is all about the true essence of Greece without the hustle and bustle. It’s a place where every moment feels intimately yours and inspires a sense of romance and tranquility.

Honeymoon hotels in Karpathos

These are the most romantic hotels in Karpathos:

  • Arkasa Palace has fresh suites with private pools. That’s where we stayed and definitely recommend. Don’t miss out on a sunset jacuzzi session!
  • Renata’s Villas is a simple yet charming hotel with a great pool and beautiful views
  • Konstantinos Palace is the only 5 starts resort on the islands, but lacks authenticity if you ask me

6) Crete

Crete is a classic honeymoon destination in Greece. With its stunning beaches and landscapes, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. And let’s not forget about the food! It’s absolutely amazing, with a mix of local specialties and unique takes on traditional Greek cuisine. But the island offers more than culinary delights – it boasts some of the most luxurious and acclaimed hotels in all of Greece. With such top-notch accommodations, it’s no wonder Crete is a must-visit hot-spot for honeymooners.

It’s a big island, so plan to stay for at least a whole week to scratch the surface while keeping a relaxed pace. To get the most out of your trip, rent a car and plan to stay in at least two different locations on the island. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Elafonissi beach, with its stunning shades of blue, or the breathtaking turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon. Keep in mind that the summer months can be quite crowded in Crete, so if you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in June or September.

Honeymoon hotels in Crete

There are so many great hotels to chose from in Crete, but these are some of our favorites:

7) Symi

Symi is one of the most elegant and romantic islands in Greece. Though small, it offers a unique blend of charm and natural beauty that makes it stand out as top choice for honeymooners heading to Greece. he village center is the heart of Symi, bustling with waterfront restaurants and stunning neoclassical buildings. It’s also the starting point for boat-taxi companies that arrange trips to the beautiful beaches surrounding Symi.

Honeymoon in Greece

Symi Greece honeymoon

As for the beaches, I must say they’re nothing short of mesmerizing. Each one of them is unique, but I’d say all of them share crystal-clear waters and a very relaxing atmosphere. Loud music and a partying crowd is the very opposite of what you’ll find at Symi’s beaches. The vibe is very authentic and secluded, perfect for easygoing honeymoon days filled with romance. I recommend you plan 4 blissful days in Symi to soak up the sun at Agios Georgios, Agios Marinas, and Nanou beaches. I’d also plan for a half-day at the charming Petalo Restaurant, which has access to the water and a nice menu.

Honeymoon hotels in Symi

Symi has some romantic hotels that are perfect for honeymooners. Here are our favorites:

8) Skopelos

Nestled in the sparkling Aegean Sea lies Skopelos – a heavenly island where verdant landscapes meet crystal blue waters. As the backdrop to the iconic movie ‘Mamma Mia’, this little island exudes a magical aura that transports you straight into the joyful musical. Every corner and every view exudes a sense of pure happiness. It’s a place that invites you to dance and celebrate life. And what could be more special than sharing these blissful moments with the love of your life in Greece?

Best islands honeymoon Greece
Skopelos travel guide

I recommend staying for at least 5 days to enjoy the best Skopelo has to offer. From stunning beaches to must-see attractions, this island has it all. Kastani and Hovolo beaches are amongst some of the most beautiful beaches we have seen in the whole world. And the picturesque Church of Agios Ioannis is a sight that will leave you in awe. This is a favorite destination of ours and I’d definitely recommend spending some honeymoon days there!

Honeymoon hotels in Skopelos

There aren’t so many sophisticated hotels in Skopelos, but these are great options:

  • Eunice’s House is the most romantic place to stay in Skopelos. Just imagine you and the love of your life spending a night at the jacuzzi stargazing and talking about your future together!
  • Skopelos Holidays Hotel & Spa is a 5 stars hotel with a beautiful pool area

9) Milos

Although Milos is far from being an off the beaten path destination, it’s still secluded enough to feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret. Small and filled with beautiful beaches and boutique hotels, Milos may be a perfect pick in the Cyclades Islands. Milos doesn’t have a grandeur atmosphere, but it’s a perfect place to make intimate and romantic memories with your love. Every beach, street, and sunset feels so romantic, it’s hard to even remember this island was not created with the purpose of hosting honeymooners,

4 days are enough to enjoy the best Milos has to offer and renting a vehicle is definitely advisable. Wandering the streets of Plaka, swimming and Kleftiko Beach and flying to the moon in Sarakiniko Beach are among some of the best things to do in Milos. Get lost in Milos with the love of your life and enjoy some of the most beautiful moments of your life!

Honeymoon hotels in Milos

Milos has amazing honeymoon hotels in different price ranges. These are some of the best:

10) Folegandros

Despite being located around the corner from Santorini and Mikonos, Folegandros has managed to fly under the mass tourism radar. Well, at least so far. With charming whitewashed towns and pristine coastlines, this island exudes an air of tranquility, perfect for a serene honeymoon escape. And the price tags are really appealing when compared to some other islands in the region. It’s almost a no brainer to visit Folegandros if you decide to head to the Cyclades.

Honeymoon hotels in Folegandros

Folegandros has great honeymoon hotels for all types of budget. These are my favorites:

Best Greek islands to honeymoon by region

Now that you’ve discovered our top 10 islands for a honeymoon in Greece, let’s broaden the horizons. Get ready to discover a myriad of magical destinations scattered across idyllic each archipelago in Greece. I hope you’ll feel more excited to plan an island-hopping itinerary for your honeymoon trip. Let’s begin with the Cyclades:

Best Greek islands to honeymoon in Greece
Honeymoon in Greece

Best island to honeymoon in the Cyclades

The Cyclades are perhaps Greece’s most iconic island cluster. Nestled southeast of the mainland, these islands are not just geographically accessible but are also well-connected, making them the perfect destination to explore from Athens or other European cities. While Santorini and Mykonos steal the spotlight, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Here’s a list of Cyclades’ finest destinations

  • Milos
  • Folegrandos
  • Sifnos
  • Koufonisia
  • Ios
  • Naxos
  • Paros and Antiparos
  • Samos

Best island to honeymoon in the Ionian

In my opinion, the Ionian islands are the most beautiful in Greece. Nestled between Greece and Italy, they’re known as “Eptanisa”, which means “seven islands”. The title points to the seven primary islands amid the thousands of islets dotting the Ionian Archipelago. They are:

Each of these seven islands boasts its unique geography and natural allure. However, they all hold the promise of breathtaking beaches and landscapes. Picture turquoise coves surrounded by majestic cliffs and lush landscapes comprised of cypresses, pine, and olive groves – it’s the most authentic version of a Greek paradise. One that I believe is the most perfect backdrop for a honeymoon in Greece!

Kefalonia travel guide

Best island to honeymoon in the Sporades

The Sporades are tucked away in the northeast of Greece, nestled between the scenic Pelion region and the bustling city of Thessaloniki. These islands are renowned for their lush greenery and stunning blue waters. They showcase a breathtaking fusion of emerald-green landscapes and sapphire-blue seas. 4 are the main islands in the Sporades Archipelago, each offering its own slice of paradise and unique charm. They are:

Skopelos and Skiathos are really charming and boast amazing beaches. It’s where the movie Mamma Mia was recorded and the landscapes couldn’t be more romantic. Skiathos in particular has some honeymoon worthy hotels, like La Piscine Art Hotel and Skiathos Princess.

Best islands to honeymoon in the Dodecanese

The Dodecanese islands are tucked away in the southern part of Greece, near the Turkish coastline. They are bathed by the Aegean Sea and have some of the sunniest islands in the whole of Greece. There are about 150 islands in the region, but 15 are the most visited. They are known for jaw-dropping beaches, historical villages and elegant buildings. It’s the perfect archipelado for a laid back yet extremely beautiful honeymoon. These are our favorit islands in the Dodecanese:

  • Rhodes
  • Halki
  • Symi
  • Karpathos
  • Kos
  • Tilos
  • Lipsi

How to plan a honeymoon in Greece: itinerary suggestions

If want to get the most out of your honeymoon in Greece, consider hopping between islands in the same region. It’s a practical and delightful way to soak up the best Greece has to offer, considering each island is a world of its own. Trust me – after three trips to Greece and countless island excursions, I’m yet to encounter a dull or uninspired destination in this breathtaking country.

The golden question is: how long do you need to get a good taste of Greece? Well, in our experience, 10 days is the least time you should allocate to the trip. It gives you enough time to spend a couple of days exploring the ancient and ever-vibrant Athens, and visit at least two islands. However, the longer you have in Greece, the deeper you can dive into the mesmerizing Greek landscapes and cultures. Ideally, you should stay for at least 15 days to experience the continental and insular atmospheres of Greece during your honeymoon.

Honeymoon in Greece

These are some of my favorite honeymoon itineraries in Greece:

Corfu + Paxos & Antipaxos

This is a perfect honeymoon itinerary if you have only 10 days in Greece. Plan to stay 5 nights in Corfu then head to Paxos & Antipaxos for 3 nights. Finish off by spending 2 days in Athens exploring the birthplace of western civilization. With more days available, you can extend the stay in each place and/or extend the itinerary to Kefalonia.

Find the best travel guide to the Ionian Islands here.

Kefalonia + Ithaca

Visiting Kefalonia, Ithaca and Athens will require at least 12 days. You can plan the first 2 in Athens and then head to Kefalonia for 6 gorgeous days exploring the island’s most beautiful beaches and villages. From Kefalonia take a ferry to Ithaca and spend 4 days relaxing and exploring it’s beautiful coastline.

Thessaloniki + Skopelos + Skiathos

If you have 10 days available for your honeymoon, head to Thessaloniki and stay there for 2 days. It’s the gastronomic capital of Greece, so you’ll have plenty to enjoy. Then, head to Skopelos and stay for 5 nights enjoying the islands’ beautiful beaches and landscapes. From Skopelos, head to Skiathos and spend 3 days between Lalaria, Koukonaris and Tsougarias beaches.

Santorini + Mykonos + Milos

This is a classic honeymoon itinerary in Greece and it’s better enjoyed in 12 days. Spend 2 days in Athens and then head to Santorini. This is the most popular honeymoon destination in Greece and it’s filled with romantic hotels and landscapes. Spend 4 days exploring the island and then take a ferry to Mykonos. Spend 3 days at the beach and cute villages and then move on to Milos. In 3 days you’ll be able to visit Milo’s most beautiful beaches and villages. Splurge on a nice hotel and enjoy the romantic atmpsphere.

Santorini + Milos, Paros, Folegandros or Naxos

If Mykonos is not your vibe, don’t worry. It’s not ours either, but there’s plenty beautiful islands around Santorini to create a dreamy island-hopping itinerary. I’d recommend spending 2 days in Athens and 4 in Santorini to begin with. Then, you can head to one or many of the mentioned islands. They’re all beautiful and unique, so there’s really no wrong choice to me made.

Rhodes + Symi + Karpathos

There’s a lot to see and do in Rhodes, so spend at least 3 days there. Halki is just a stone thrown away, so it may be a great day-trip from Rhodes. From Rhrodes head to Symi and stay for 3 more days exploring it’s gorgeous beaches and charming village. Move on to Karpathos and spend at least 5 days there. Don’t miss visiting Olympos village, Appela Beach and taking a trip to Saria island.

Crete + Karpathos

Though Crete alone could suffice as a dreamy honeymoon destination, it can easily be paired with 2-3 days in Athens to complete a fulfilling 10-12 day itinerary. But if your wanderlust is calling for more than one Greek island, set sail or take a flight to Karpathos. This stunning island brims with 5 days’ worth of dazzling beaches and picturesque villages.

How much does it cost to honeymoon in the Greek Islands ?

Convinced to spend your honeymoon in Greece? Great. Now, you must be wondering how much does a trip to the Greek Islands cost, right? Well, the truth is that it depends on the level of luxury you want for the trip. In general, you should budget for:

Accomodation

  • Around 150€ per night at charming boutique hotels such as
  • Between 200 and 500€ per night at a luxury/boutique hotel like Emelisse Nature Resort in Kefalonia
  • Above 500€ at top hotels in Athens and the most famous Cyclades Islands like Santorini and Mikonos

Food

Food in Greece is very reasonably priced compared to other countries in Europe. To get the most of the Greek culinary, I recommend visiting local tavernas, ordering various small dishes to share pairing with house local wine. You can budget considering the following:

  • Starters at a local taverna vary between 3€ to 12€
  • Main meals at a local taverna vary between 8€ to 20€
  • Local house wine won’t cost you more than 5€ per 500 ml

Most of our meals in Greece were comprised of a few starters, two mains, wine, and beers. The total would vary between 50€ to 70€. However, if you’re planning to visit fine-dining restaurants during your honeymoon, I recommend budgeting for 100€ per person. I know there’s plenty room in between these estimations, but in general bills shouldn’t top 120€ for two at most restaurants in the Greek Islands

Extras

  • A car rental will cost you around 60€ per day and you can book in advance here
  • A private and self-skippered boat will cost you around 130€ per day + the fuel you consume.
  • Wine-tastings are usually priced between 5 and 30€
  • Boat tours in group usually cost 70€, but it can vary depending on the length and destinations. If you’re interested in a boat rental with a skipper, budget for at least 300€ per day for two people

I hope this guide was useful to you. Before leaving, you may want to check other posts about Greece. These are our main suggestions:

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