Discover Greece and the Greek Islands, and enjoy a holiday with cruise voyages.

When it comes to holidays by cruise in our country, the Greek Islands are among the first destinations that come to mind thanks to their proximity. While islands of different sizes meet the beauty of the Aegean Sea, their picture-perfect streets, deep blue waters, magnificent beaches, and lively nightlife leave holidaymakers truly impressed. The question everyone asks is: which are the best and most beautiful Greek Islands? We are here to answer that for you. Below, you can find all the information about the most beautiful and most popular Greek Islands. The easiest way to visit these islands is through the tour programs organized by us as Celestyal Cruises. And without the hassle of a visa, get ready to embark on a wonderful “visa-free” Greek Islands cruise aboard the largest ships of the Aegean!

Now is the perfect time to discover the magic of the Greek Islands!

Experience the most popular destinations of the Aegean in a single holiday with 3, 4, and 7-night Greek Islands cruise tours. Make your reservation now for special prices for 2026 and 2027, early booking opportunities, and limited availability.

The Best Destinations

Mykonos

This is the heart of entertainment and a favorite destination of the international jet set. It is the most cosmopolitan island in Greece. With its immaculate whitewashed houses, windmills, and winding streets, it is one of the symbols of the Cyclades. Discover its sandy beaches, explore the ancient temples on neighboring Delos, and watch the sunset by the windmills. If you are lucky, while walking through the streets of Mykonos, famous for their legendary nightlife, you may even encounter the island’s well-known pelican, Petros.

Little Venice - Stands out with its magnificent sunset and scenery Mykonos, one of the most popular Greek islands, attracts fun-loving visitors not only from Europe but from all over the world throughout the season. With its blue and white painted little houses, narrow streets, famous beaches, and vibrant nightlife, it continues to be a center of attraction. One of the most popular spots in Mykonos is the area where the windmills are located. In this place, where tourists compete with one another to take photographs, find a beautiful angle around sunset and enjoy the legendary view.

Mykonos Nights - Let yourself flow with the music and entertainment During the summer, you may find it difficult to walk through the narrow, bright white streets. Especially in the evening, it is almost impossible to continue walking without being drawn in by the music coming from every corner. It is an indispensable island for those who wish to spend unforgettable hours in world-famous nightclubs and entertainment venues.

Santorini

Santorini is one of those places you should see at least once in your lifetime. It offers a unique view with its blue and white lime-washed houses scattered like sugar cubes. The island consists of two main areas, Fira and Oia. Discover Fira with its volcanic cliffs and narrow streets, and beautiful Oia for the unforgettable image of its blue-domed churches. No matter what, make sure you reach the top of the cliffs and enjoy the breathtaking view. On this volcanic island, known as one of the most impressive places in the world to watch the sunset, do not miss this unique spectacle.

Oia Village

Famous for its magnificent sunset and scenery The most popular area of this volcanic island, which welcomes approximately 1 million tourists every year, is undoubtedly Oia Village, renowned for its sunset views. The sea view from the hill, together with the white terraces visible from its narrow white streets, is truly worth seeing. 

Beaches and Shopping

Do not be surprised when you see black sands marked by volcanic remnants instead of the usual bright white beaches. Swimming in the shade of giant rocks offers a special kind of pleasure. In addition, there are many beaches around the island for those who wish to sunbathe while enjoying views of Oia Village and the windmills.

Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands. According to Greek mythology, Rhodes is a gift from the Gods. The city’s famous castle, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. A visit to the old town of Rhodes feels like stepping back into the medieval era as you walk along the cobbled Street of the Knights and explore the Palace of the Grand Master. The ancient town of Lindos is also among the must-see places. Visit the Acropolis of Lindos and the Temple of Athena, overlooking the sparkling Saint Paul’s Bay.

Rhodes Castle - A UNESCO Heritage Site Rhodes, the capital of the Dodecanese, is home to Rhodes Castle in the old town, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Despite being exposed to many attacks and occupations due to its location, Rhodes Castle has lost none of its grandeur. Also known as the Island of the Knights, Rhodes was used as a palace, headquarters, and fortress. After the island was conquered by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the Knights were sent to Malta and the island came under Ottoman rule.

Lindos - Ancient splendor Located on the eastern side of the island, the Acropolis of Lindos is one of the symbols of ancient Greek history. With its magnificent bay and historical ruins, it is one of the most popular tourist areas of Rhodes. About 45 km from the city center, you will reach the Acropolis of Lindos through authentic villages and narrow streets. When you reach the top, a magnificent view will be waiting for you…

Crete

Crete is the largest island of Greece and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. With 35 million olive trees, it supplies 60 percent of Greece’s olive consumption. It ranks first in the world with an annual olive oil consumption of 25 liters per person. As the last place conquered by the Ottomans, the island still carries important traces of that period. Its history goes back even further, to the Minoan Civilization, and it is home to an ancient Venetian port city. The Palace of Knossos, where the legend of Theseus and the Minotaur takes place and which was once part of Europe’s oldest civilization, is among the must-see sites.

Palace of Knossos - Europe’s oldest civilization Located in the largest archaeological site on the island of Crete dating back to the Bronze Age, the Palace of Knossos resembles a small district. The remains of this carefully preserved archaeological site, from its theatre to its inner courtyards, are remarkable, and the historical artifacts uncovered here are exhibited in the archaeology museum. Once one of the largest cities of Byzantium, Crete continues to attract great interest today.

Cretan Cuisine - Natural ingredients and olive oil The people of Crete, who consume the most olive oil in the world, are also famous for their magnificent cuisine. Prepared with natural ingredients and uniquely flavorful olive oil, the dishes are enriched with both seafood and fresh greens. You should definitely try the Cretan salad known as Dakos. While visiting the island, do not forget to buy local herbs and olive oil as well.

Athens

The capital of Greece welcomes you with a panoramic view from the Acropolis hill. You can walk through the streets where democracy and philosophy were born, and explore the city center filled with ancient monuments, world-class museums, stylish cafés, charming taverns, and design stores. If you are fascinated by Greek mythology, you will not notice how time passes on this journey. In Athens, the Acropolis, home to temples dating back to the 5th century BC, will captivate you with its commanding position over the city. With the temples of Athena, Nike, Parthenon, and Erechtheion, you will embark on a journey into a mysterious past. Do not leave without enjoying a coffee in the Plaka district, with its taverns, narrow stone streets, and bay-windowed houses adorned with geraniums.

Acropolis - A step-by-step journey into mythological time You should not leave Athens without visiting the Acropolis. From this ancient historical site, where the history of Athens began, you can observe the city from above. Meaning “upper city,” the Acropolis has survived almost untouched from the 5th century BC to the present day. Walking through the places where the foundations of today’s democratic system were laid will be a truly special experience.

Plaka District - Romantic streets, touristic steps We recommend exploring the Plaka district of Athens step by step. You can take a break in the authentic coffee shops and food venues hidden among the streets, and shop in the tourist stores. The streets lined with pastel-textured houses are ideal for photography. Especially for travelers who enjoy taking photographs, the Plaka district is the first route to discover.

Milos

Located in the southwest of the Cyclades, the volcanic island of Milos is covered with the charming white houses and windmills you may also see on other Greek islands. As with every Greek island, this island is also one of the important centers of Aegean civilization. With more than 70 beaches, it stands out as one of the most preferred islands for swimming. With its volcanic rock formations, crystal-clear shores, and sunny atmosphere, it continues to welcome thousands of travelers every year.

Sarakiniko Beach - A Volcanic White Wonder This island attracts great attention with its volcanic white rocks and white limestone sands, and is also referred to by the Greeks as the white Cappadocia. You will not get enough of swimming in the caves formed within the limestone rocks shaped by the waves.

What to eat in Milos? Seafood, Cheese On all Greek islands, appetizers, cheese, and seafood are almost always excellent. In Milos, this tradition continues. Fresh seafood and a variety of mezes will be served at your table. However, you may also wish to try the island’s special smoked fish or shrimp.

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