10 Places to Visit in Greece (That Aren't Santorini) ' The Blonde Abroad

You might not realize how diverse the Greek Islands are! Greece is a whole new world, from the white and blue abodes along the Cyclades Islands to the lush greenery on the Ionian islands and the historic sites of Dodecanese island, to the Cyclades islands' coasts. These photos are proof of my love for Santorini. You're spoilt for choice. You could miss out on the chance to have the adventure of a lifetime by booking a ticket to a familiar face. It's all about finding the right island for you adventure in Greece. Are you ready for your dream vacation? These are 10 places you need to see in Greece.Milos You may have seen Milos in my Tips for Traveling Greece On a Budget. This island is a favorite of mine, and not only because it's one of the most affordable in Greece. That's definitely a perk! This off-the-beaten-track destination is located at the Cyclades group's southwest edge and offers a glimpse into local culture. Milos is far more than the generic hotels and restaurants you see in many tourist hotspots in Greece.Ruins of Temple of ApolloNaxos Beach lovers know that the Greek Islands are a must-see destination. The beach can be many things for many people, as any true beach bum will tell you. Naxos is the place for you if your seaside adventures are more about having fun than relaxing in the sun. Naxos is a paradise for watersports. You can kitesurf or windsurf on the high seas. Total newbie? No worries! There are many schools that can help you get started.Planning Tip: Uncertain of the type of Greek adventure you want? For more information on Naxos, and other must-sees, check out my Quick Guide To The Best Greek Islands to See.Mykonos, one of the most visited destinations on the Greek Islands. It is also probably the most well-known name on the list. It's a place I have been a few times, and each visit is different. There are many options. You can have a wild, non-stop party, or a romantic getaway in one of the many luxury resorts. To start planning, choose your adventure and then go to my Ultimate Mykonos Travel Guide.Knossos at CreteCrete Although it is a beautiful year-round destination and a great place to visit, Crete is my favorite place for an April vacation. You can find pastel villas along the white-sand coast between the lively cities of the island. This is the largest of all the Greek islands and a great choice if you're looking to explore a lot without having to go island hopping.Hydra Sailing the Saronic Islands, Greece. I had the opportunity to visit Hydra. You won't find one car or motorbike on this small island, which is only 50 km (31 miles) in area. This laid-back island is popular with locals who travel by water taxis. This one is a great option for a unique experience on the Greek island. It offers pristine beaches and off-the-grid travel.Paros. If you've read my Tips for Traveling to the Greek Islands, then you know I am obsessed with Paros. Beautiful beaches in Greece are not hard to find, but these beaches are exceptional. Paros, a famous destination for its Instagram-worthy beaches or traditional villages is one of the rare places where you can find authentic culture and world-class beaches.Ios You'll find the beloved island of Ios between Santorini and Naxos. Popular party spot is this Cycladic island located in the middle of the Aegean sea. Ios is a more affordable option than Mykonos, but it attracts a younger crowd. This is the best place to go if you're looking for a romantic getaway or a place that can be easily reached by ferry. Rhodes It will feel like you're in a fairy tale as you walk through the historic village of Rhodes. The Unesco World Heritage Site Rhodes Old Town, one of Europe's most well-preserved medieval cities, is an amazing look into the past life in Greece. Things are looking brighter these days! There are many cultural events in Rhodes, beautiful beaches and numerous restaurants.Kos is another paradise for history enthusiasts. There are many ancient Roman and Greek treasures to be found on Kos. You can wander villas dating back to the third century, enjoy cocktails on the shore, and then jet-set as wild peacocks roam the distance. What a great day! Kos is more than a historical tour of Greece. It was also a cultural meeting place where you can dive deeper into the Mediterranean culture.