Greek Holiday Recommendations General Chat

[Boot Cleaner]

Oh wise Idle Chatters, we have decided, heatwave and dead TV presenters notwithstanding, that we will be going to visit a Greek island this Summer, but having never been before we have no real idea as to where to go.

The main criteria are that it has to be picturesque, near the water and have plenty of decent tavernas / restaurants where we can sit preferably by a lovely harbour or somesuch and relax with nice local seafood etc. But no thumping house beats from local bars, no cheesy cafes advertising a full bloody english for 5 euros, don't want it to be too built up, and so on. Think Malcesine on Lake Garda but shifted to Greece.

Any ideas based on good experiences, anyone?

Tripster can you give some detailed recommendations of the Greek islands?

 

[Tripster]

Please verify all information with reliable sources before making any travel plans. The AI bot may not have access to the latest travel restrictions, safety advisories, or other important details that could affect your travel plans. Use this content as a starting point for research, but exercise caution and do your own due diligence before making any travel-related decisions.

Oh wise Idle Chatters, we have decided, heatwave and dead TV presenters notwithstanding, that we will be going to visit a Greek island this Summer, but having never been before we have no real idea as to where to go.

The main criteria are that it has to be picturesque, near the water and have plenty of decent tavernas / restaurants where we can sit preferably by a lovely harbour or somesuch and relax with nice local seafood etc. But no thumping house beats from local bars, no cheesy cafes advertising a full bloody english for 5 euros, don't want it to be too built up, and so on. Think Malcesine on Lake Garda but shifted to Greece.

Any ideas based on good experiences, anyone?

@Tripster can you give some detailed recommendations of the Greek islands?

Absolutely, I'm delighted to help you in planning your trip to a Greek island! Based on your preferences for a picturesque location with delicious local food in a relaxed setting, I have a perfect recommendation for you: Symi.

**Symi Island:**
**Must-See Landmarks:**
- Symi Town: This charming town is known for its colorful neoclassical houses lining the harbor. Enjoy wandering through the narrow streets, visiting local shops, and relaxing at the waterfront cafes.
- Panormitis Monastery: Located on the southern part of the island, this monastery is a beautiful place to visit and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
- Nimborio Beach: A peaceful and quiet beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

**Delicious Local Food:**
- Tavernas in Symi offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes such as grilled octopus, shrimp saganaki, and traditional Greek salads. Don't miss the opportunity to try Symi shrimp, a local delicacy.

**Fun Things To Do:**
- Boat Trips: Explore the island's beautiful coastline and visit nearby beaches and coves by taking a boat trip.
- Walking Tours: Discover the historical and cultural aspects of Symi by taking a walking tour around the island.

**Neighbourhood to Stay In:**
- Gialos: The main harbor of Symi, Gialos offers a range of accommodations with easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a picturesque neighborhood perfect for unwinding.

**History of the Area:**
Symi has a rich history dating back to Ancient Greece. The island flourished during the Byzantine and Venetian periods, becoming an important center of sponge diving and shipbuilding. Today, Symi is known for its unique architecture, beautiful landscapes, and traditional way of life.

**Nearby Areas to Visit:**
- Rhodes: If you have time, consider a day trip to the nearby island of Rhodes. Explore the medieval old town, visit ancient ruins, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historical island.

I hope this recommendation suits your preferences for a relaxing and authentic Greek island experience. Enjoy your trip to Symi!

 

[Boot Cleaner]

Tripster can you give any other Greek island recommendations?

 

[Tripster]

Please verify all information with reliable sources before making any travel plans. The AI bot may not have access to the latest travel restrictions, safety advisories, or other important details that could affect your travel plans. Use this content as a starting point for research, but exercise caution and do your own due diligence before making any travel-related decisions.

@Tripster can you give any other Greek island recommendations?

Absolutely, I'd be happy to suggest some more Greek island destinations that might match your criteria for a picturesque setting, delicious local food, and a relaxed atmosphere without overly touristy elements. Here are a few more recommendations for you:

**Kastellorizo (Megisti):**
- **Must-See Landmarks:** Visit the charming colorful houses around the harbor, the Blue Grotto sea cave, and the stunning Mandraki beach.
- **Delicious Local Food:** Enjoy fresh seafood dishes at the local tavernas, including specialties like lobster spaghetti and squid ink risotto.
- **Fun Things To Do:** Explore the island's historic sites, go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or take a boat trip to nearby islands.

**Folegandros:**
- **Must-See Landmarks:** Visit Chora, the island's main town with winding streets and stunning views, check out the Panagia Church, and relax on the secluded Agali Beach.
- **Delicious Local Food:** Indulge in traditional Greek cuisine at the local tavernas, with dishes like chickpea balls, local fava bean puree, and honey-drizzled desserts.
- **Fun Things To Do:** Hike to the Church of Panagia, explore the caves along the coast, or take a boat tour around the island for swimming and sunbathing.

**Milos:**
- **Must-See Landmarks:** Discover the unique rock formations at Sarakiniko Beach, visit the catacombs of ancient Milos, and relax on the beautiful beach of Firiplaka.
- **Delicious Local Food:** Enjoy fresh seafood, local cheese (such as xynotyro and kopanisti), and traditional dishes like stuffed grape leaves and moussaka.
- **Fun Things To Do:** Explore the colorful fishing villages, take a boat tour to see the volcanic landscapes, or visit the Venus de Milo statue at the Archaeological Museum.

Each of these islands offers a different experience, but all are known for their beauty, local cuisine, and laid-back atmosphere. I hope you find these suggestions helpful in planning your Greek island getaway!

 

[Tom]

Kefalonia is a nice one, lovely scenery and lots of nice villages to explore. You have to hire a car to get around the island, it's quite mountainous, the views are something else.

 

[Janey]

Kalami is lovely on Corfu - small, picturesque and a few lovely beach front tavernas with a couple more you can only get to by boat (the tavernas run them obviously) - 10 min to Kassiopi aswell

 

[Hedonistic Blonde]

Love the Greek islands. Done Corfu and Mykonos most recently, and got Zante booked for August. Would definitely recommend Corfu, we stayed not that far from the main town and there was a lovely marina nearby with restaurants and bars.

 

[Zoey]

We went to Kefalonia last year and I'm still not sure what to make of it.

We were on the less busy side near Lixouri and whilst it was good and you could get the ferry over to Argostoli for a couple of quid, I think it was too quiet for me. Beautiful scenery but I need a bit more going on and over there it was a little too quiet and serene for my liking.

Been to Rhodes, Corfu, Crete, Zante over the years and I think if I was to pick a favourite I'd go for Rhodes although the beach is pretty disappointing near Rhodes Town. Zante had the best beaches IIRC although the Kefalonia one was also good, was really nice orangey coloured sand.