27/05/2025
Greece is home to over 6,000 islands and islets, but only a fraction are inhabited. Among them, these 10 stand out not just for their size, but for their history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a look at the largest Greek islands, ranked by area — from the vast mountains of Crete to the lush shores of Corfu, and beyond.
1. Crete (8,336 km²)
🏛️ The largest island of Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Known as the cradle of the Minoan civilization, Crete boasts the Palace of Knossos, stunning beaches like Elafonisi, and towering gorges such as Samaria.
2. Euboea (Evia) (3,655 km²)
🌉 Separated from mainland Greece by a narrow strait, Euboea feels like both an island and an extension of the mainland. It’s rich in thermal springs, medieval castles, and quaint mountain villages.
3. Le**os (Mytilene) (1,633 km²)
🌿 Famous for its olive oil and ouzo, Le**os is also known as the birthplace of the ancient poet Sappho. The island features petrified forests and a unique blend of Ottoman and Greek architecture.
4. Rhodes (1,401 km²)
🏰 The largest of the Dodecanese, Rhodes is famed for the medieval Old Town (a UNESCO site), the legacy of the Knights of Saint John, and its sunny beaches.
5. Chios (842 km²)
🌺 Chios is renowned for mastiha (mastic), a resin unique to the island and protected by the EU. It also offers a fascinating mosaic of medieval villages and Byzantine monasteries.
6. Kefalonia (Cephalonia) (781 km²)
🐢 Home to the endangered Caretta-caretta sea turtles, Kefalonia features dramatic landscapes, the Melissani underground lake, and was the setting for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
7. Corfu (Kerkyra) (593 km²)
🎻 Influenced by the Venetians, French, and British, Corfu offers a cosmopolitan vibe, pastel-colored architecture, and lush greenery. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Lemnos (Limnos) (477 km²)
🌾 A tranquil island with volcanic landscapes, ancient ruins, and golden beaches. Lemnos is a hidden gem for those seeking authenticity and quiet.
9. Samos (477 km²)
📚 Birthplace of mathematician Pythagoras and philosopher Epicurus. Samos is lush and mountainous, famous for its sweet Muscat wine and classical ruins.
10. Naxos (430 km²)
🐐 The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos combines stunning beaches with fertile valleys and ancient temples. Its local cheeses and marble quarries are particularly well-known.
Which one have you visited — or dream of exploring? 🏖️
