Best Greek Islands for Couples: 5 top islands for honeymoon

There's a reason Greece appears on every "most romantic destinations" list. The sunsets alone could make even the most cynical heart flutter. Add whitewashed villages spilling down volcanic cliffs, candlelit dinners overlooking the Aegean, boutique cave hotels with private plunge pools, and that golden Mediterranean light—it's basically engineered for romance.

But not all Greek islands are created equal when it comes to couples. Some are party islands where you'll be dodging club promoters. Others are family-focused with kids running everywhere. And a few are so remote that you'll struggle to find a decent restaurant.

The best Greek islands for couples hit a specific sweet spot: romantic atmosphere, beautiful accommodations, intimate restaurants, stunning sunsets, and enough to do without feeling like a tourist conveyor belt.

Whether you're planning a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, or just want to reconnect somewhere beautiful, here are the most romantic Greek islands for couples.

Quick Answer: Best Greek Islands for Couples

Short on time? Here's the quick version:

For the classic honeymoon: Santorini – The caldera views and cave hotels are iconic for a reason

For romance without crowds: Folegandros – The "Santorini alternative" that Greeks love

For adventurous couples: Milos – Surreal beaches and colorful villages

For car-free elegance: Hydra – Sophisticated and serene, just 90 minutes from Athens

For off-the-radar romance: Astypalea – A butterfly-shaped secret in the Dodecanese

Read on for the full breakdown of each romantic island.

What Makes a Greek Island Romantic?

Before diving into specific islands, here's what I look for when recommending islands for couples:

Atmosphere over activities. Romantic islands have a certain mood—intimate restaurants, quiet streets at sunset, that feeling of having discovered somewhere special together. Busy tourist infrastructure kills romance.

Beautiful accommodations. Cave hotels, boutique properties, private terraces with views—where you stay matters for couples more than any other travel style.

Sunset culture. The best romantic islands have elevated sunset-watching to an art form. Cocktails with a view, clifftop restaurants, that golden hour glow.

Walkability and charm. Hand-in-hand strolls through atmospheric villages, getting "lost" in whitewashed lanes, discovering hidden squares.

Food and wine. Candlelit dinners, local wines, long leisurely meals—couples islands need excellent dining options.

The right pace. Not too sleepy (nothing to do), not too hectic (stressed out). That perfect rhythm for reconnecting.

With those criteria in mind, here are the most romantic Greek islands for couples:

The 7 Best Greek Islands for Couples & Honeymoons

1. Santorini – The Ultimate Honeymoon Island

Why couples love it: Let's be honest—Santorini is the honeymoon capital of the world for a reason. The volcanic caldera, the whitewashed villages cascading down cliffs, those legendary sunsets, the cave hotels with private infinity pools—it's romance distilled into an island.

Yes, it's famous. Yes, it's expensive. And yes, you should absolutely go if you're celebrating something special.

The romantic highlights:

Sunset in Oia – The most famous sunset spot in Greece, perhaps the world. Arrive early, find a spot at a caldera-view bar, order champagne, and watch the sky turn impossible colors. Tourist hordes? Yes. Still magical? Absolutely.

Cave hotels with caldera views – Santorini's iconic accommodation: whitewashed suites carved into the volcanic rock, private terraces, plunge pools overlooking the caldera. Waking up to this view with your person is unforgettable.

Wine tasting with a view – Santorini produces exceptional Assyrtiko wines. Estates like Santo Wines and Venetsanos offer tastings with caldera panoramas.

Sailing the caldera – A sunset catamaran cruise with swimming stops, dinner, and wine. The island looks different from the water—arguably even more dramatic.

Walking Fira to Oia – The cliffside path connecting the two villages is one of the world's great romantic walks (about 3 hours, do it in late afternoon for golden light).

Where to stay:

Oia – Most romantic, most expensive. Cave hotels with the best sunset views. Imerovigli – The highest village, slightly quieter than Oia, equally stunning views. Fira – More accessible, still beautiful, better value for caldera views. Pyrgos – Inland village, charming and much cheaper, but no caldera views.

Romantic hotel picks:

Katikies Santorini (Oia) – Iconic infinity pools, legendary service, honeymoon heaven
Canaves Oia Epitome – Suites with private pools, adults-only, immaculate
Mystique (Oia) – Romantic cliffside retreat, exceptional restaurant
Cosmopolitan Suites (Fira) – Stunning value for caldera views, intimate

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Direct ferries from Athens (5-8 hours) or flights (45 minutes)
How long: 2-4 nights is ideal for couples
Budget reality: Santorini is expensive. Caldera-view hotels start around €300/night in high season; luxury properties €600+. Budget options exist but miss the romance.

Best for: Honeymoons, engagements, milestone anniversaries, bucket-list seekers, couples who want THE classic Greek island romance.

The catch: Crowded in summer, expensive, and the famous spots can feel like tourist attractions rather than discoveries. The magic requires some effort to find quiet moments. Oia at sunset is packed—beautiful but not intimate.

Find romantic hotels in Santorini

Book a Santorini sunset sailing cruise

2. Folegandros – The Romantic Santorini Alternative

Why couples love it: Folegandros is what many couples are actually looking for when they imagine Santorini—dramatic clifftop Chora, stunning sunsets, romantic restaurants—but without the cruise ship crowds and Instagram hordes.

This small Cycladic island is where Greeks go for romantic getaways. That tells you everything.

The romantic highlights:

Chora at sunset – Folegandros's main village is perched on a cliff edge, 200 meters above the sea. The main square (Pounta) with its church, tavernas, and endless views is genuinely one of the most romantic spots in Greece. And you might actually get a table.

The walk to Panagia church – A zigzag path climbs from Chora to a clifftop church with 360-degree views. Do it at sunset. Propose here.

Intimate dining – Restaurants in Chora are excellent and atmospheric without the Santorini prices. Candlelit tables, local wines, slow service in the best way.

Quiet beaches – Folegandros beaches require effort (hiking, boat trips), which keeps them peaceful. Agali is the main beach; Livadaki and Katergo are more secluded.

The pace – Folegandros hasn't been overrun. There are no beach clubs, no party scene, no branded boutiques. Just authentic Greek island life.

Where to stay:

The accommodation is smaller-scale and more intimate than Santorini—boutique hotels, cave-style rooms, family-run guesthouses. That's part of the charm.

Romantic hotel picks:

Anemi Hotel – The most upscale option, beautiful design, excellent restaurant, pool with views
Anemomilos Apartments – Stunning Chora location, traditional style, incredible value
Folegandros Apartments – Quiet, romantic, cliff-edge location

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Ferry from Athens (4-7 hours depending on boat) or connection via Santorini
How long: 2-3 nights minimum, could easily spend longer
Budget: More affordable than Santorini. Excellent value for romance.

Best for: Couples seeking authentic romance, Santorini-style beauty without crowds, proposal trips, second honeymoons, those who value atmosphere over facilities.

The catch: Limited beaches (and they require effort to reach). No airport means longer travel logistics. Fewer "luxury" amenities—no infinity pools or five-star service. The romance is in the simplicity.

Find romantic hotels in Folegandros

3. Milos – For Adventurous Romantic Couples

Why couples love it: Milos offers a different kind of romance—one built on shared adventure and discovery. The beaches here are otherworldly (volcanic moonscapes, sea caves, hidden coves), and exploring them together creates memories that generic sunset cocktails never could.

Plus, the colorful fishing villages are ridiculously photogenic, perfect for couples who want their trip to look as good as it felt.

The romantic highlights:

Sarakiniko at sunrise – The famous lunar landscape of white volcanic rock is magical at dawn, before anyone arrives. Bring coffee, watch the light change together, have the whole moonscape to yourselves.

Boat trip to Kleftiko – The island's most spectacular spots are only accessible by boat. A day trip to Kleftiko's sea caves and hidden swimming spots is pure adventure-romance. Pack a picnic, bring wine.

The fishing villages – Klima, Mandrakia, and Firopotamos are tiny villages of colorful syrmata (boat houses carved into rock). Utterly romantic, especially at sunset.

Dinner in Plaka – The hilltop village has intimate restaurants with panoramic views. Sunset from the castle ruins, then dinner in the atmospheric lanes below.

Beach hopping – Milos has 70+ beaches. Rent a car and find your own secret cove. Firiplaka, Tsigrado (climb down a rope ladder together), Papafragas—each more dramatic than the last.

Where to stay:

Milos has a growing boutique hotel scene, but it's less developed than Santorini—more intimate, more authentic.

Romantic hotel picks:

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel – Stunning design, excellent pool, romantic suites
Skinopi Lodge – Secluded, unique design, for couples wanting privacy
Adamas Milos – Great location, cave-style rooms, sea views

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Ferry from Athens (4-7 hours) or flights to Milos airport (seasonal)
How long: 3-4 nights to see the major beaches
Budget: More affordable than Santorini. Good value for the experience.

Best for: Adventurous couples, photography enthusiasts, beach lovers, couples who bond over exploration rather than relaxation.

The catch: Many beaches require hiking, scrambling, or boat access—not relaxing in the traditional sense. Less "turnkey romance" than Santorini; you create your own. Limited nightlife and dining compared to bigger islands.

Find romantic hotels in Milos

Book a Milos boat trip to Kleftiko

4. Hydra – Sophisticated Car-Free Romance

Why couples love it: Hydra is unlike anywhere else in Greece. No cars, no motorbikes—transportation is by foot, donkey, or water taxi. The result is a peaceful, elegant island that feels suspended in time.

The crescent-shaped harbor lined with sea captains' mansions, the artistic community, the sophisticated atmosphere—Hydra attracts a certain kind of traveler. It's romantic in an intellectual, European way rather than a tropical honeymoon way.

The romantic highlights:

The harbor at sunset – Find a table at one of the waterfront bars (Pirate is legendary), order ouzo and mezze, and watch the golden light illuminate the amphitheater of mansions. The absence of vehicles creates a peace you don't realize you needed.

Walking everywhere – Narrow lanes, stone staircases, hidden squares with bougainvillea—Hydra rewards wandering. Get lost together.

Swimming at Vlychos – Take a water taxi to this small beach and taverna. Spend the afternoon swimming, eating, drinking, being completely present.

Art and culture – Hydra has long attracted artists and writers (Leonard Cohen lived here). Galleries, interesting shops, cultural events—it feeds the mind as well as the heart.

Day trip from Athens – Just 90 minutes by ferry, Hydra works beautifully as a day trip from Athens. But staying overnight lets you experience the magic when day-trippers leave.

Where to stay:

Hydra has some of Greece's most elegant boutique hotels—historic mansions converted into intimate properties.

Romantic hotel picks:

Bratsera Hotel – Former sponge factory, stunning courtyard, pool, old-world elegance
Orloff Boutique Hotel – 18th-century mansion, beautifully restored, excellent restaurant
Angelica's Traditional Rooms – Simple but characterful, excellent harbor location

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Ferries from Piraeus (Athens), about 90 minutes
How long: 1-3 nights (can easily do as a day trip, but overnight is better)
Budget: Mid-range to expensive. No budget accommodations worth recommending.

Best for: Sophisticated couples, art lovers, those who value atmosphere and elegance, city couples wanting an easy escape, second honeymoons.

The catch: Limited beaches (and they're pebble). No cars means luggage logistics (porters help). Can feel quiet in the off-season. The romance is subtle—no infinity pools or dramatic cliff views.

Find romantic hotels in Hydra

5. Astypalea – Secret Romance in the Dodecanese

Why couples love it: Astypalea is for couples who want to feel like they've discovered somewhere special. This butterfly-shaped island in the Dodecanese is barely known outside of Greece, yet it has a stunning Cycladic-style Chora, excellent beaches, and a romantic atmosphere that rivals anywhere.

If you've "done" Santorini and want something equally beautiful but genuinely off the beaten path, Astypalea delivers.

The romantic highlights:

Chora at sunset – Astypalea's hilltop village, crowned by a Venetian castle and line of windmills, is one of the most beautiful in Greece. Whitewashed houses cascade down toward the harbor. The sunset from the castle walls is spectacular—and you might be alone.

The castle and windmills – The Querini castle offers panoramic views. The row of windmills against sunset skies is ridiculously romantic.

Quiet beaches – Beaches like Vatses, Kaminakia, and Agios Konstantinos are pristine and uncrowded. Some require dirt roads (rent a car), which keeps them peaceful.

Authentic Greek experience – Astypalea hasn't been tourist-developed. You'll eat in tavernas where locals outnumber visitors, discover your own rhythm, feel genuinely away.

Where to stay:

Small boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses. Nothing massive, everything intimate.

Romantic hotel picks:

Maltezana Beach Hotel – Beachfront, comfortable, excellent base
Astypalea Studios – Chora location, traditional style, great views
Kilindra Art Guesthouse – Unique, artistic, memorable

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Flights from Athens (1 hour) or ferry (8-12 hours depending on route)
How long: 3-4 nights to relax into the pace
Budget: Very affordable. Excellent value.

Best for: Couples seeking undiscovered romance, second honeymoons, those who've "done" the famous islands, travelers who value authenticity over luxury.

The catch: Remote. Getting there takes effort. Limited nightlife and dining options (but what exists is good). Not for couples who need activities and facilities.

Find romantic hotels in Astypalea

6. Symi – The Colorful Day Trip (or Longer)

Why couples love it: Symi might be the most photogenic island in Greece. The harbor of Gialos, with its amphitheater of colorful neoclassical mansions, is genuinely breathtaking. Most people visit on a day trip from Rhodes, but staying overnight reveals Symi's romantic soul.

The romantic highlights:

Arriving by boat – The approach to Gialos harbor is spectacular. As the boat rounds the headland and the colorful houses appear, you'll both gasp.

Walking to Chorio – The 500 steps from the harbor to the upper village are lined with mansions, bougainvillea, and views. Do it in late afternoon when the light is golden.

Dinner by the harbor – Waterfront restaurants with twinkling lights, fresh seafood, the illuminated mansions reflected in the calm water. Peak romance.

Empty streets at night – When day-trippers leave, Symi belongs to its handful of overnight guests. Walking the quiet streets under stars feels intimate and special.

Where to stay:

Limited options, but what exists is charming—restored neoclassical buildings, small hotels with character.

Romantic hotel picks:

The Old Markets – Beautifully converted historic building, romantic suites
Iapetos Village – Sea views, traditional style, excellent breakfast
Symi Visitor Accommodation – Various restored properties throughout the village

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Ferry from Rhodes (1-2 hours)
How long: 1-2 nights minimum. Day trips work but miss the magic.
Budget: Mid-range.

Best for: Couples who love architecture and color, photographers, those combining with a Rhodes trip, anyone who loves dramatic arrivals.

The catch: Small island with limited beaches. Can feel touristy during day-trip hours. Quiet at night (romantic for some, too quiet for others).

Find romantic hotels in Symi

Book a day trip to Symi from Rhodes

7. Paros & Antiparos – Romance with Balance

Why couples love it: Paros offers couples the best of everything—romantic villages, beautiful beaches, excellent dining, and enough variety to keep you both happy. It's less intense than Santorini, more developed than Folegandros, and hits a sweet spot for couples who want romance without sacrificing convenience.

Antiparos, its tiny neighbor (10-minute boat ride), adds a layer of bohemian charm—and happens to be where Tom Hanks vacations.

The romantic highlights:

Naoussa at night – This fishing village turned foodie destination is magical after dark. Whitewashed lanes, candlelit restaurants, the illuminated harbor—quintessential Greek romance.

Sunset at Parikia – The main town's waterfront and Venetian castle offer beautiful sunset views without Santorini's crowds.

Antiparos day trip – Take the small ferry together, rent bikes, explore the tiny main street, swim at deserted beaches, visit the famous cave. Easy adventure.

Beach days – Kolymbithres (bizarre granite formations), Santa Maria (Caribbean vibes), Golden Beach (windsurfing if you want activity)—excellent options for couples.

Where to stay:

Paros has excellent accommodation across all levels, with some standout romantic properties.

Romantic hotel picks:

Parilio Hotel – Member of Design Hotels, stunning minimalist luxury, adults-focused
Cosme – Elegant boutique hotel, beautiful pool, romantic atmosphere
Mr & Mrs White Paros – Adults-only, excellent design, great restaurant

The practical stuff:

Getting there: Direct ferries from Athens (4 hours) or connections from other Cycladic islands
How long: 3-5 nights, allowing time for Antiparos
Budget: Mid-range to luxury. Better value than Santorini.

Best for: Couples wanting romance plus variety, foodies, those who can't decide between beach and culture, balance-seekers.

The catch: Less dramatic than Santorini (no caldera). Can feel busy in August. The romance is lovely but not as intense as single-focus islands like Folegandros.

Find romantic hotels in Paros

Quick Comparison: Romantic Islands at a Glance

Island

Romance Style

Sunset

Beaches

Luxury Options

Crowds

Budget

Santorini

Classic honeymoon

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

High

€€€€

Folegandros

Authentic Greek

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐

Low

€€

Milos

Adventurous

⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐

Medium

€€

Hydra

Sophisticated

⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Medium

€€€

Astypalea

Undiscovered

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐

Very Low

€€

Symi

Photogenic

⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐

Medium

€€€

Paros

Balanced

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Medium

€€€

Romantic Experiences to Book

Beyond accommodation, these experiences elevate a couples trip:

Sunset sailing cruises – Available on most islands. Santorini's caldera cruises are famous, but Milos and Paros offer excellent alternatives with fewer crowds.

Wine tasting – Santorini's volcanic wines are world-class. Book a wine tour with caldera views.

Private beach picnics – Some hotels can arrange picnic hampers for secluded beach days.

Couples cooking classes – Learn to make Greek dishes together in Santorini, Crete, or Naxos.

Photography tours – Capture your trip with a professional photographer at sunset.

Spa treatments – Many luxury hotels offer couples massages and treatments.

Sample Romantic Itineraries

7 Days: Classic Honeymoon

Days 1-2: Athens (Acropolis sunset, Plaka dinner)
Days 3-5: Santorini (caldera views, sunset sailing, wine tasting)
Days 6-7: Folegandros (authentic romance, cliff walks, intimate dining)

10 Days: Romantic Island Hopping

Days 1-2: Athens
Days 3-5: Milos (beaches, boat trip, fishing villages)
Days 6-7: Folegandros (clifftop romance)
Days 8-10: Santorini (classic finale)

Long Weekend: Hydra Escape

Day 1: Morning in Athens, afternoon ferry to Hydra
Day 2: Explore Hydra, swim at Vlychos, sunset cocktails
Day 3: Morning wander, ferry back to Athens

Tips for Romantic Greece Trips

Book accommodation with views. This is not the trip to save money on hotels. A private terrace with sunset views is worth the splurge.

Avoid August if possible. Peak crowds, peak prices, peak heat. May-June and September are ideal—warm enough to swim, romantic enough to swoon.

Build in downtime. Romance needs space. Don't over-schedule. Some of the best moments happen when you have nowhere to be.

Reserve special dinners. The best sunset restaurants fill up. Book in advance for anniversary or birthday dinners.

Rent a car on larger islands. Freedom to discover your own beach or village is inherently romantic.

Embrace the Greek pace. Late dinners, afternoon naps, slow mornings—the Greek lifestyle is designed for couples.

Final Verdict: Which Island for Your Romantic Trip?

Here's my honest recommendation:

For the ultimate honeymoon: Santorini. It's famous for a reason. The caldera, the sunsets, the cave hotels—it's romance turned up to maximum.

For authentic romance without crowds: Folegandros. Everything couples love about Santorini, minus the tourist hordes.

For adventurous couples: Milos. Bond over beach exploration and shared discovery.

For sophisticated city-couples: Hydra. Art, elegance, and the peace of a car-free island.

For truly off-the-radar romance: Astypalea. Feel like you've discovered somewhere secret together.

For more detailed information, check out my guides to the best Greek islands to visit and best Greek islands for first-time visitors.

And if you're planning a romantic trip together, our Greece trip planning quiz can help match you with your perfect island.

Whatever you choose, Greece is going to deliver the romance. The only challenge will be deciding when to come back.

Start planning your romantic Greek island getaway

Last updated: January 2026