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DESTINATIONS ISLANDS | GREECE & CYPRUS


i travelweekly.co.uk


n the fast-changing world of travel one thing’s for sure: Greek island getaways


are strong sell. But demand for more unique, authentic holiday destinations at affordable price points and with fewer crowds is bringing some of Greece’s lesser-known islands are into the limelight. According to Google data, Milos is the most-searched-for Greek island in 2024 – a spot held by Mykonos last year. Harry Kyrillou, the aviation and commercial director for Hellenic specialist Planet Holidays, says: “there has been an increase in holidays to lesser-known islands post-Covid, with folks seeking out smaller hotels and villas.” From the cosmopolitan streets


of Corfu to the coves of Rhodes, discover five perennially popular Greek islands to visit – and their lesser-spotted alternatives.


HYPE: SANTORINI Why go? The volcanic island is the supermodel of the Greek islands. Think blue-domed


churches and stout whitewashed homes cascading down volcanic cliffs, against the backdrop of the azure Aegean Sea. Must do: Watch the sun set in Oia. Widely known as the top spot for sunset viewing, the coastal town offers unobstructed views of the caldera, with the ruins of Oia Castle providing the ideal vantage point for catching the sun’s fiery descent.


HIDEAWAY: ASTYPALAIA What’s the vibe? Astypalaia, one of the Dodecanese archipelago’s best-kept secrets, is known as ‘butterfly island’ because it comprises two wing-shaped islands, linked by a beachy strip of land. With about 1,300 inhabitants, this remote island boasts traditional whitewashed villages and spectacular sunsets minus the crowds. Secret tip: For clients after true seclusion, recommend hiring a boat to explore Astypalaia’s semi-secret beaches. The many shores that promise ²


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PICTURE: K.Katopi


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