Do you want to enjoy tranquil swims and strolls through picturesque island lanes without the crowds? We’ve put together a list of Greek islands that are wonderful for holidays in September.
When for some people summer holidays are ending, for others they are just beginning. August may be the classic vacation month, yet September has its own charm. The weather is still good, prices are lower and the islands’ beaches and picturesque alleys aren’t «swamped» with people. For all these reasons, we have prepared for you a list of seven Greek islandsfor every taste that are ideal for quality and unforgettable holidays in September.
Aegina
It is the first capital of modern Greece, the homeland of the famous and delicious pistachio, the island loved by artists and intellectuals. It is a breath away from Athens and yet gives you the feeling that you are so far away... With a romantic atmosphere that transports you to another era, picturesque fishing villages, important sights, archaeological monuments and a pine-covered hinterland ideal for hiking and strolls, theAegina,the second largest island of the Argosaronic, offers many variations. And this season is ideal for exploring it. Strolls along the harbor promenade, excursions into the pine-clad interior toward Agia Marina, walks in Paleochora, the medieval capital of the island, a visit to the Temple of Aphaia (the view from this point is mesmerizing), as well as relaxation with coffee and food in the traditional fishing village of Perdika, will fill your schedule. Want more reasons to visit Aegina? In September, the island hosts the Pistachio Festival (Aegina Fistiki Fest), one of the country’s largest cultural and gastronomic festivals.
Tinos
Beyond Chora and the church of the Virgin Mary, the beautiful villages of Tinos await the visitor who wants to discover the authentic side of the island. Pyrgos, the largest village of Tinos, is an open-air folk art exhibition. Walking the picturesque cobbled lanes you will admire the village’s architecture and the wonderful marble creations that adorn every corner. Kardianiis a village full of surprises: unexpectedly green, with distinctive architecture and ample sea views. In the village of Volakas (or Volax) you will encounter an impressive scene with scattered, large, rounded granite boulders (probably remnants of a volcanic eruption). The amphitheatrically built Ysternia (like a balcony over the Aegean), Steni (the island’s second largest village), Dyo Choria, Falatados, Tripotamosand the fishing village of Panormos complete the palette of the island’s must-see villages. As for your swims, in Tinos you will find yourself before a multitude of wonderful beaches: Kolympithra, Pachia Ammos and Santa Margarita are just a few of them.
Syros
Syros is a four-seasons island, ideal both for weekend getaways and for longer holidays. Ermoupoli steals the show with its architecture and atmosphere. It is a cosmopolitan capital with its own distinctive character, an island city that has life regardless of season. Do not miss a stroll through the medieval settlement of Ano Syros which offers beautiful views of the Aegean and transports you to other times. Take a dip at Asteria, with the aristocratic Vaporia as a backdrop, before getting in the car to discover the island’s countryside and beaches: Poseidonia (also known as Dellagrazia) with country mansions and lush gardens, Agathopes, Vari, the picturesque fishing village of Kini and Galissas with the beautiful beach that is ideal for families.
Andros
Do you want to enjoy beaches with clear waters, walks in nature, picturesque villages and good food? The solution is just two hours from the port of Rafina. In Andros countless surprises and hidden treasures await you.Imposing mansions of shipowners and captains, Venetian castles, old monasteries, waterfalls, caves, hiking trails and sandy beaches will convince you that you have found a little paradise. Strolls in the aristocratic Chora of Andros are among those that remain unforgettable. It is also worth seeing the village of Stenies, taking a stroll in Batsi (especially after sunset) and visiting Korthi which is an entire island on its own! Pidima tis Grias (the island’s most famous beach), Achla (for many, the most beautiful beach of Andros), Chrysi Ammos, Kypri and Zorkos are just some of the beautiful beaches that await you for delightful swims. If you love hiking, you will be thrilled with the island’s many ancient paths.
Skopelos
If your holiday plan calls for absolute relaxation and dips in turquoise-green beaches, then Skopelosis the ideal island for you. The verdant island of the Sporades retains its authentic beauty and has its own rhythms that make it particularly appealing.Here, the pines reach the deep blue of the sea, creating images of unparalleled natural beauty. Skopelos Town, the island’s capital and port, is the first thing you will see as soon as you arrive. The settlement of Skopelos was declared preserved, by presidential decree, in the late ’70s. The island’s second largest settlement, Glossa, is located 25 km north of Chora. Amphitheatrically built on the slope of a hill, it has narrow alleys for relaxed strolls and tavernas serving traditional cuisine. Skopelos is famous for its enchanting beaches, some of which are considered among the most beautiful in the Aegean. On the north and east side of the island, the coasts are rocky, while in the south and west, pine-covered slopes create beautiful beaches that enchant visitors.
Rhodes
Cosmopolitan yet traditional, the largest island of the Dodecanese offers countless attractions, endless beaches with emerald waters, castles and ancient cities, picturesque settlements and a great variety of activities for the whole family. And September is the ideal month to discover its beauties. InRhodesyou will have so many things to do, so many places to see, so many beaches to dive into that as soon as you arrive you will not know where to start. You will certainly visit the Medieval City of Rhodes, a «living» UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is also worth putting on your excursion program the Kallithea Springs, the Valley of the Butterflies and Lindos with its acropolis.
Corfu
For those who prefer the Ionian, Corfu is a classic and beloved destination for holidays. With vibrant life all year round, lush nature, traditional villages, wonderful beaches, good food and one of the most beautiful old towns in Greece, Corfu is a paradise in summer and beyond. It is the island that knows how to make anyone have a good time: those who seek a cosmopolitan atmosphere, those who want to live the adventure, and those who wish to enjoy a peaceful family holiday. The Old Town of Corfu, which was declared by UNESCO a World Cultural Heritage, is a destination in itself. September is perhaps the best time to explore it, to see its important sights and to get lost in its lanes. The island is large and has countless beaches. Do not miss the chance to swim at the beautiful beaches of Paleokastritsa, to enjoy the sun on the busy sandy beach of Glyfada and to dive into the much-photographed Canal d’ Amour with its sculpted, lace-like rocks. If you are in the mood for an escape to yet another island, from Corfu you can head to the neighboring Paxoi.
