Best Greek Islands to Live on
Greece is often referred to as the dream vacation spot for many. You cannot but fall in love with the breathtaking scenery and the gorgeous look of this country. Its colorful environment enchants people and makes them wish they could live on a Greek island forever.
If you're looking for breathtaking natural scenery, stunning beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle accompanied by silence and peace, then the Greek islands are the perfect choice for you. The serenity and peace, the environment, and the people make Greece desirable and welcoming.
There are so many different, beautiful, popular Greek islands you might want to live on, and each of them has its unique features and charm that make them endearing.
This is not to say that living on a Greek island does not come with its pros and cons. It is definitely worth giving a shot if you are keen on living a super pleasant life.
Whether you're looking for a bubbling city experience or a more serene setting, you'll find your exact match in Greece.
Why you should consider living on a Greek Island
There are so many reasons you should want to live on a Greek island. The weather is amazing, the food is delicious, and the people are amiable. Plus, there are so many fun activities and beautiful things to see that you'll rarely get bored.
Here are just a few of the many reasons why living on a Greek island is the best decision you could ever make.
The Weather Is Great
If you're looking for bright sunny skies and warm temperatures, you should live on a Greek island. The climate on most islands is Mediterranean and what this means is that you can expect mild winters and long, hot summers for most of the year.
Since the islands are surrounded by water, you'll always have a cool breeze to keep you comfortable and relaxed. This amazing weather also makes it possible to get the most of the best beaches on Greek islands.
The Food Is Amazing
Greek food is one of the best in the world. Fresh seafood, delicious fruits and vegetables, and delectable desserts are just a few of the culinary delights you'll most likely find on an island. And since Greek culture places a very high value on hospitality, you can be sure that you'll always be well-fed when you live on a Greek island.
There's Much to Do
From hiking and swimming to exploring ancient ruins and visiting the best Greek party island, there's never a dull moment when you live on a Greek island.
No matter your interests, you'll find many fun things to keep you busy on a Greek island. And with so many different islands to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect one for you.
Greek People Are Friendly
These people are some of the most friendly and welcoming people around the world. They will do their best to help out a visitor, and they are ready to make you feel at home and enjoy your stay. Making friends will be easy when you live on a Greek island.
The Best Greek Islands to Live on
Just as we stated earlier, there are so many popular Greek islands to live on, depending on your preference and what you are looking for. Crete is a perfect choice if you want a taste of the traditional Greek island experience.
For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while still living on one of the most beautiful Greek islands, Kefalonia is the ideal Greek island. This peaceful island is home to some of the best beaches on the Greek islands and several serene villages.
Kefalonia is the perfect place to relax and unwind, and you’ll never want to leave once you’ve experienced its unique charm. If you are looking to cut costs, Thessaloniki is one of the cheapest Greek islands.
Crete
Crete is a popular Greek island and one of the best Greek islands to live on. Due to its size, it offers a diverse range compared to others. This large island has a bit of everything, including its vibrant capital city of Heraklion, which is accompanied by beautiful beaches. There’s plenty to see and do on Crete.
Also, when choosing an island to live on, Crete is the first choice because while it is one of the most beautiful Greek islands, it is also one of the cheapest Greek islands to live on.
It offers many beautiful things that come with living on an island, including breathtaking beaches, seaside restaurants, and a relaxed vibe. It also offers an effective, functional medical infrastructure.
This gives the island an edge over others because one of the major pain points of living on an island is getting adequate medical care. But in Crete, you have access to good care right on the island. This makes it the best Greek island for families.
There are so many other reasons to decide to live in Crete all year round, but this particular reason trumps all. Other reasons include the amazing weather, the beautiful beaches, great food and wine, gorgeous and breathtaking scenery, amazing and friendly people, and access to decent infrastructure.
While most islands offer most of the above, Crete is quite special because it seems like a regular city with the right population and infrastructure.
Another important reason to consider living in Crete is its rich history and culture. By strolling the streets, you will be reliving and experiencing its historical past. Walking around, you’ll get a first-hand taste of the antique and historical feeling that the island exudes.
Not only will you come across noble mansions, Venetian fortresses, museums, fountains, and churches that ooze an appealing and welcoming charm, but you will also meet people who are willing to dive deep into Crete history with you.
To further experience this historical culture in an even deeper manner, Knossos Palace, Phaistos Palace, and Spinalonga Islet are some of the best places to visit in Crete.
Mykonos
According to the 2011 census, Mykonos has a population of about 10,134 people. The island has 85.5 square kilometers (33.0 sq mi), rises to 341 meters (1,119 feet) at its highest point, and lies on the west coast. This popular Greek island is known for its spring and summer beauty.
There is usually not a large influx of tourists during winter, and the island is usually bright green, an impact of the summer rain. The beauty of the island is simply breathtaking. If you are looking to live on a Greek island with almost everything- stunning scenery, great beaches, lively nightlife, and plenty of amenities – Mykonos is the place for you.
This island is one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, but it’s also always a great place to live. It is considered to be one of the best Greek islands for couples.
Another reason you might want to consider Mykonos is the abundance of employment opportunities available on the island. Mykonos is now one of the most beautiful Greek islands attracting international celebrities, luxury yacht owners, and a unique mix of holidaymakers. It is one of the best Greek Party islands.
Along with the glamour, the island retains its strong Greek identity. The azure-blue ocean, dramatic rocky cliffs, blue and red domes of innumerable churches, dazzling white sugar-cube houses, picturesque windmills, and little fishing harbors crammed with caiques, Mykonos will make you want to live on a Greek island.
Another reason Mykonos is an awesome Greek island to live on is its wide variety of gourmet restaurants and simple tavernas. You can rest assured that you will never run out of nice amazing meals a day in and out.
Santorini
Santorini is a very famous Greek island. It is located in the southern part of the Cyclades group of islands in the Aegean Sea. There are so many stories about this 4000-year-old island. The everlasting rock continues to stand, waxing strong in its majesty, rising proudly from the sea and guarding well the secrets of Atlantis.
In Santorini, there’s usually so much to do, from super nice cruises to amazing food and exciting activities. The island is a group of islands that consists of Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea, and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of the Cyclades. Santorini is especially famous for its popularity among celebrities.
Getting the chance to live on a Greek island as Santorini offers you access to a fun, enjoyable, and exciting life.
Siros
Siros is one of the best Greek islands to live on for families. If you want a smaller, more low-profile, culturally diverse island, Siros, about 78 nautical miles from Athens, is worth considering. It is the administrative capital of an island group called the Cyclades, and because of this, it stays open and fully functions 12 months a year.
While you are likely more familiar with the other islands of the Cyclades like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, and Naxos, Siros is also a famous Greek island in its own right, with a year-round population of over 20,000 people inhabiting its 39 square mile landmass.
The island is known for its culture, and you can easily find quality art openings, film festivals, fine dining, and theatre in Siros. The architecture has a northern European feel, with cobblestone streets and neoclassical mansions tucked against narrow, winding alleys. It’s not known for its beaches, but with Mykonos, a short ferry ride away, Siros gives you good proximity to everything you imagine when you hear “Greek island.”
Many Athenians maintain a dual residence in Syros, and the island has a cultivated, broad-minded feel. If you are a culture enthusiast seeking island living with easy access to mainland Greece, consider Siros.
Living part-time on a Greek island
If you dream of living full-time on a Greek island, especially if you search for the best Greek islands for families, these are your safest bets. But if your dream is centered on living on a small Greek island, and experiencing the awesomeness of the best beaches on the Greek islands, don’t give up hope. You can adopt the lifestyle of many Greeks by spending six months on an island and six months on the mainland.
Unlike North America and most of Europe, Greek life is very focused on the summer, and the rhythm of the country reflects this. It is very normal to spend the summer season on an island and then relocate to Athens or somewhere else on the mainland for the winter period.
The summer season traditionally starts with Greek Orthodox Easter and runs to mid-October. Athens offers a surprising array of modern culture, and while the capital is very sleepy in August, it wakes back up during September and October. In Athens, you can find excellent theatre, dining, art openings, lectures, and more during the winter.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your move to a Greek island today!