I'm a Greece expert and these underrated destinations are the country's best kept secrets
Greece is one of Europe's leading tourist destinations with more than 35 million travellers holidaying there in 2024.
This means that its more popular spots, such as Santorini and Mykonos, tend to get a little overcrowded.
But with over 6,000 islands in Greece, the country has more than enough destinations where you can escape the crowds.
And if you're looking for inspiration, Greece expert and base manager at Sunsail, Claire Shields, has shared her six favourite hidden gems.
Lefkas
Claire describes the island of Lefkas as one of Greece's 'best hidden gems' with 'stunning natural beauty' and 'incredible beaches'.
She reveals: 'Lefkas island has some of the best beaches in the world, like Porto Katsiki, Egremni and Kathisma. The small villages in the mountain also offer breathtaking sunset views.'
Lefkas is connected to the Greek mainland which means it's only around an hour's drive from Preveza Airport.
Claire adds: 'For those wanting to explore further afield, Lefkas is a great location as there are many small islands within a short distance that you can visit.'
Meganisi
A small island with 'hidden coves and sea caves', Claire reveals that Meganisi is a great destination for sailing, seafood and snorkelling.
She explains: 'It is one of the few Ionian islands that remain untouched by mass tourism which is why it's such an underrated hidden gem.
'It has a laidback, authentic Greek vibe with fishing villages, traditional family-run tavernas and underground caves to explore.'
The travel expert recommends visiting Papanikolis Cave, which is only accessible by boat.
Atokos
This 'small uninhabited island' is a must-visit destination, according to Claire.
She adds: 'Untouched nature and limestone cliffs make it a stunning place to visit and ideal for relaxation.
'To the east of the island is One House Bay, where you will find wild pigs roaming around.'
According to Claire, Atokos is an 'ideal' destination if you 'want to feel closer to nature.'
Kalamos and Kastos
These two 'tiny' and tranquil islands are some of Greece's best hidden gems, according to Claire.
She says: 'Kalamos has a few perfect natural harbours which are calm and protected. Sailing around Kalamos means discovering quiet beaches, sea caves and swimming with no one else around.'
Meanwhile on Kastos, tourists can expect to find 'unspoiled beaches with clear turquoise water'.
Claire explains: 'Home to less than 100 permanent residents, Kastos feels like a floating village. With only one small harbour, a cluster of stone houses and a few tavernas, time seems to slow down here.'
Paxos
Claire says: 'One of the least commercial Greek islands set in the Ionian Sea, this island is truly beautiful with scenery that makes it an artist's paradise.
'Its clear aquamarine sea and pebble beaches must be seen to be believed.'
The travel expert explains that Paxos is the 'perfect place to wind down' as 'nothing is done quickly here'.
She suggests grabbing an iced coffee at one of the island's seafront cafes and watching a local fisherman bring in his catch.
Agia Efimia
This 'gorgeous fishing village' on the east of Kefalonia is the perfect holiday destination if you want a 'slower pace of life', says Claire.
She suggests tourists spend the day 'watching beautiful boats entering and leaving the marina'.
Claire adds: 'There are two sets of caves, the Drogarti inland and the Melisani caves, which you can be taken in by a boatman.
'Many describe this as entering Hades itself. The water is dark and inky with turquoise patches where the sun hits.'
And if you're looking for more breathtaking holiday destinations in Greece, why not check out the gorgeous spot that's been described as the 'Maldives of Europe'.
Elafonissi Beach on the island of Crete is world-famous because of its pink sand and crystal-clear water.
Its pastel-pink sand gets its colour from Foraminifera, tiny marine creatures which create red-pigmented shells.
Over time, the shells break down and mix with the sand giving it its attractive pink colour.
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