Small Greek islands where cars are unnecessary or even prohibited. Here everything is reached on foot or by sea.
There are many reasons to choose a holiday without a car on an island. You don't want to worry about the price of gas, you don't own a car, or you're looking for a small island where you can easily walk everywhere and where the only things you'll care about are where you'll eat and which book you'll read on the beach. Below, we've gathered some beautiful Greek islands where a car is unnecessary (or even prohibited), to spark ideas for the upcoming long weekends and your summer holidays.
Agistri
Just one hour from the port of Piraeus, Agistri has earned a devoted following thanks to its wonderful beaches with crystalline waters, abundant greenery, and peaceful vibe. The smallest island in the Saronic Gulf is an ideal destination for groups of friends, couples, families, and anyone who loves exploring nature, cycling, or hiking. In Skala you'll find an organized sandy beach and plenty of options for accommodation, food, and drink. In Megalochori, the largest settlement on Agistri, you'll stroll along cobbled lanes, admire traditional houses with flower-filled courtyards, and see the island's only windmill. The famed Chalikiada, with crystalline waters and imposing cliffs, the pebbly Dragonera on the island's western side, and exotic Aponisos, where pines embrace the sea, await you for long, refreshing swims.
Hydra
Within its few square kilometers, history and tradition blend with cosmopolitan flair, and wild beauty with stately elegance. Free from the noise of cars, Hydra invites you to stop time and relax, to walk its cobbled alleys, admire the captains' mansions and the well-preserved manor houses with clean lines, and wander its trails. No cars circulate on the island and all transport is by sea or by donkeys. Walk the coastal road that links the port with Kamini and Vlychos with views of the sea. Dive from the rocks of Hydronetta, below the famous cannons. The town's connection with the island's other beaches is by sea, with boats or water taxis, but also on foot.
Spetses
Carriages, captains' houses, beaches fringed with pines and blue-green waters, a cosmopolitan air, and interesting events mingle uniquely on Spetses, the small island of the Argosaronic with a big history. The «island of aromas», as the Venetians called it, is just two hours from Piraeus (by Flying Dolphin) and 10 minutes from the little port of Kosta in Argolida. A romantic carriage ride from Dapia to the old harbor is a staple on Spetses, where cars are prohibited. If you're the sporty type, you can circle the island by bicycle or walk the trails that lead inland. You'll enjoy panoramic views from the chapel of Prophet Elias on Spetses' highest peak. When the weather warms and you're ready for your first dips, note the island's «back» beaches, Agioi Anargyroi, Agia Paraskevi and Zogeria, or Agia Marina and Kaiki if you want something closer to town.
Kimolos
Small in size, authentic and captivating, with its picturesque Chorio, its wonderful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere that wins you over immediately, Kimolos sparkles like a rare jewel under the Aegean sun. «My Kimolos, my paradise!», the locals often say, and when you find yourself on the island you'll understand what they mean. Milos' «little sister» is a distinctive and special island, known for its tranquility and simplicity. An island best discovered on foot. Arriving in Kimolos, the little harbor of Psathi gives you the first impression, as the crystalline waters, the few small houses, and the handful of tavernas make you realize you've just reached a small yet earthly paradise.
Antiparos
Once, Antiparos was the essential day trip for those summering on Paros. Nowadays, though, this small island in the heart of the Cyclades has evolved into a cosmopolitan destination that combines nightlife with moments of peace and relaxation, attracting visitors from all over the world - among them many foreign VIPs. You need just 10 minutes to reach Antiparos by ferry from Paros and start exploring the island. Strolls along the main pedestrian street of the tiny Chora (you'll meet all the island's visitors here) and the Venetian castle, relaxation on the camping beach, swims at Faneromeni and Despotiko, sunset at Sifneiko, sunrise at the legendary disco «La Luna».
Koufonisia
Exotic beaches with golden sand and unbelievable waters, magical sea caves, exploration, relaxation, and good food. The Koufonisia may no longer be the unknown paradise of the remote ferry routes, yet they retain their relaxed Cycladic atmosphere and remain a dream summer destination. Ano Koufonisi is small enough to walk across in a day. The coastal path from the port ends at Pori, the largest of the island's wonderful beaches. For more seclusion, you'll go by boat to uninhabited Kato Koufonisi, where there's nothing but an abandoned village, a small chapel, and a single taverna.
Leipsoi
A picturesque, quiet little harbor and a few amazing beaches are enough for unforgettable holidays on the island of the goddess Calypso, which is easily reached from Patmos. On Leipsoi days pass quietly, with dips in gorgeous waters and walks along the island's trails. Visit the church of Panagia tou Harou and explore the ancient acropolis and the ancient settlement at the site of Kouselio. The beaches of Lientou, Kampos, Hohlakoura, Platis Gialos, Monodendri, and Katsadia will offer you endless hours of relaxation.
Halki
A short distance west of Rhodes, Halki is a small island that hides true treasures. The picture-perfect harbor, Nimporio, with its colorful mansions like a painting, the Chorio- the now-deserted former capital- with the Fortress of the Knights of St. John and the incredible view over the Karpathian Sea, as well as the beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, promise peaceful holidays that will stay with you forever. Some of the island's beaches can be reached on foot, while the rest you'll visit by boat. Pondamos is the most easily accessible (and the only sandy) beach on the island, while it's worth visiting Ftenagia, Kania, Giali, and Areta beach as well.
