Demand for holidays in Greece in 2023 is constantly rising because more and more travelers want short-term rental options for a good price, longer stays, and destinations that are off the beaten track.
In this article, we introduce you to less-frequented islands in Greece that are great value for your money. Keep in mind that this list does not mean every accomodation on the island will be cheap. Nor will it be as expensive as luxury villas on Mykonos or Santorini. The focus of this article is on islands where you can find a high-quality Greek lifestyle for a reasonable price.
As in any area, property values depend on the exact location (within a town or in the countryside), access to the sea, and the year the property was built.
Astypalaia
Astypalaia is sometimes called “the butterfly of the Aegean” because the island is shaped like a butterfly. Staying in Astypalea is fairly inexpensive and you can find hotel rooms in the main village of Chora starting at 35 euros per night. A ferry ticket from Athens ranges from 45 to 55 euros per passenger. If you’re really on a tight budget, there are even camping options in Astypalaia for about 10 euros per day.
Gavdos
The island of Gavdos is a paradise and is the most southern point in Greece, closer to Africa than it is to the capital of Athens. The island is home to just a few rooms to let, and it is known as a haven for campers. Rooms are simple and clean, available for a reasonable rate. Similarly, food and drink on the island is very affordable, often served at beach bars and cafes. Reaching the island of Gavdos is about 15 euros from the Cretan town of Sfakia.
Skyros
Skyros is the most southern island in the Sporades, and it is ideal for holiday travels. There are more than 30 beaches and plenty of hidden bays and unique landscapes on Skyros island. Prices for apartments and hotels start at about 50 euros per night. For food and drink, there are plenty of street food options for 5 euros, and taverna meals at about 10 euros per person. The closest ferry is from Kymi in Evia, and it takes about 90 minutes. Tickets cost about 20 euros.
Kythira
Kythira is a large island that is known for its natural beauty. Local accommodations start at about 40 euros per night, and local tavernas serve delicious Greek specialties at excellent prices. Reaching Kythira from Athens on the ferry costs about 22 euros. It is ideal to bring your own car to Kythira or to rent one there because it is a fairly large island and you will be able to explore more of its beautiful hidden beaches.
Nisyros
Nisyros, like Santorini, was created in a volcanic eruption. It is an ideal place for a relaxing holiday, and tickets from Pireaus in Athens are about 60 euros. The port town of Mandraki and the coastal town of Pali have the most accommodation, and prices for a room begin at 35 euros. It’s also a relatively small island, so you’ll never pay too much for transportation.
Tinos
Tinos island is well known for its famous churches and pigeon houses, but it’s not as heavily visited as its neighbor Mykonos because it doesn’t have an airport. Tinos shares many of the shared characteristics, like white-washed homes and incredible seafood, but at a fraction of the cost that you will find in Mykonos. Most of the small villages on Tinos have low prices. The main town of Chora, since it is a tourist destination, will likely be more expensive. Near Pachia Ammos, 20 minutes from Chora, rooms start at 50 euros per night. Considering that you have access to untouched beaches here, it’s a great deal.
What’s Next?
This short list is just a fraction of the islands available in Greece. So your vacation doesn’t have to stop here! Greece has hundreds of islands to choose from — explore them all here.
