Best Greek Islands for Older Couples: 11 Places to Visit in 2024
If you are of a certain age (perhaps 50-60 plus), you are probably wondering which are the best Greek islands for older couples. There are thousands of islands in Greece divided into six different island groups.
There is something for everyone and even though some places have reputations that precede them (e.g. Santorini as an expensive tourist hub or Mykonos and Zakynthos as wild party spots), the reality is that nowhere is out of bounds because of your age, and background, etc. Even the most popular islands have calm areas that most travellers overlook.
This article has been written by a British Travel Writer based in Athens, Greece. It will run through the best Greek islands for older couples based on areas that have great social communities of older travellers (e.g. the “boomerang” island of Skiathos and Rhodes).
We will also look at some of the most peaceful islands if you are looking to escape the hordes and relax on a sleepy island idyll.
11 Best Greek Islands for Older Couples in 2024
Crete
Crete is a favourite island getaway among Grecophiles and is worthy of a dedicated one or two-week itinerary all of its own. The island sits south of Athens and the Greek mainland and is the largest of all of the Greek islands.
Despite the island’s popularity, it is very easy to escape the crowds and go off the beaten path in Crete – even in the height of summer! The island is brimming with a rich history and culture that makes it perfect for travellers over 50.
The Minoan civilization flourished here 3,000 years ago and left various ruins, shrines, and temples in their wake. Most notably, the Palace of Knossos was said to house the minotaur’s labyrinth.
There are three international airports in Crete. It may be convenient to fly into either Chania or Heraklion.
If you start from the island’s capital Heraklion, you can spend a couple of days enjoying local life. Sip Greek coffee in the adorable kafenions that sit beside the Venetian castle and the port, visit the Heraklion Archeological Museum and the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum, and admire the city’s Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian architecture.
One of the best excursions that you can take in Crete is to the islet of Spinalonga. This little islet was used as a leper colony from 1904 until 1957.
Anybody that fell ill with the ailment was exiled. Today, hundreds of tourists visit Spinalonga every day.
The island has been submitted for UNESCO world heritage consideration and features several ruins, ottoman houses, and a leper hospital. Slightly less dark are the opportunities for some R&R on Crete.
The beaches at Balos Lagoon, Preveli, and Elafonisi are gorgeous spots all worth adding to your radar.
Skopelos
The blue-green island of Skopelos is the greenest in the Mediterranean. It sits in the Sporades island group in the North Aegean Sea just off the coast of Volos.
The island received international attention after it was featured as the filming location for the 2008 Hollywood movie Mamma Mia. Still, despite acting as the backdrop for the film, Skopelos remains largely under the radar.
This is perhaps, in part, because the island is somewhat tricky to get to. Getting to Skopelos requires either taking a flight to Skiathos island and then taking an hour boat ride or traveling overland to Volos from Athens for the ferry.
Rest assured, your efforts to get here are well worth it. Skopelos is filled with charming villages, secluded coves, and rocky beaches.
Its most iconic site is the cliff-top Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri. The church, also known as the “Mamma Mia church” sits on top of a rocky Bluff in North Eastern Skopelos some 100 m high.
The viewpoints from up here are unparalleled. The little church is tiny – just the size of someone’s living room inside. But it is filled with some interesting religious icons and paintings.
Skopelos town is the most popular area to stay in Skopelos and opting to base yourself here means that you have a plethora of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores right on your doorstep. Panormos beach sits inside a gorgeous natural bay and is popular among the over 50s crowds – particularly British tourists.
Kastani, Milia, and Limnonari are the most popular serviced Skopelos beaches. If you are looking for something a little quieter, check out Armenopetra or Hovolo near Neo Klima.
Hydra
The little island of Hydra is one of the most charming islands close to Athens. It only takes about 90 minutes by ferry to reach the island from Piraeus port so you can visit on a day trip from the Greek capital or as part of a wider Saronic Gulf itinerary.
There are no cars permitted on the island so most people get around by horse, donkey, or bicycle. In that sense, visiting little Hydra almost feels like venturing back in time!
The picturesque port is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in all of Greece. Its labyrinth-like network of cobbled streets are filled with ramshackle artisanal stores, bars, and tavernas serving up sumptuous Greek cuisine.
2-3 days is a perfect amount of time to dedicate to Hydra but that isn’t to say that you can’t dedicate a week or more to enjoying the island at a more relaxed pace. From the port, it’s pleasant to follow the coastal hiking trail to the fishing villages of Kamini and Vlychos.
From April onwards, you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds at Vlychos beach, and during the summer, a boat runs to the area from Hydra port for €8. The pebbled beaches of Avlaki, Bisti, and Hydroneta are also worth adding to your radar.
If you like hiking, you will enjoy the trail to the 1813 Prophet Elias Monastery which sits on the slopes of Mount Eros. The interiors of the monastery are just as spectacular as the exterior and there is also a small, functioning convent (the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia) nestled in the woodland nearby.
Skiathos
Skiathos is the most popular island in the Sporades archipelago and for good reason. The island is beautiful.
Despite its small size (49.9 km²), Skiathos contains more than 60 beaches – each one seemingly more beautiful than the last. The island is known as “the boomerang” island because so many people return year after year.
Tourists of all ages visit Skiathos but it is particularly popular with an older crowd. Troulos beach, Megali Ammos, and Skiathos town are filled with live music venues, restaurants, street food eateries, and bars that mostly attract locals and tourists over 40.
If you are hoping to meet other travellers during your trip, there is a very social vibe in Skiathos and you will find that you can do this effortlessly. There are also several Facebook groups dedicated to travelling on the island where you can chat and share tips and advice with others. (Look up Skiathos Old Boomerangers)
The nice thing is that if you make friends on the island – be it expats or fellow travellers, with so many repeat visitors, chances are that you will see them again the next summer. Koukounaries is the most popular beach on the island and is often referred to as being one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece.
Lalaria beach, known for its white-pebbled coastline and unique rock formations sits on the northeastern edge of the island and is only accessible via boat. It costs €10 to take a boat here from Skiathos town port.
If you like hiking, you’re in for a treat with Skiathos. There are more than 26 walking trails on the island that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. They lead to secluded beaches, woodland monasteries and shrines, and even an old castle.
Rhodes
Rhodes is a Greek island that is popular among travelers of all ages and in particular, travellers over 50. This is the largest of the Dodecanese islands that sit east of Greece and close to Turkey.
Rhodes is known for its gorgeous sandy beaches, its warm Mediterranean climate, and its abundance of historical and archaeological sites. The island’s capital, Rhodes old town is one of the best-preserved medieval settlements in Europe.
The old town has been recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site in Greece since 1988. Various civilizations have conquered and controlled this island over the centuries and they have all left their mark on the local gastronomy and architecture.
Look out for the incredibly well-preserved Venetian Castle known as the Palace of the Grand Master. Many buildings in Rhodes also date back to the 15th century when the island was controlled by the Ottomans.
Among the colorful Venetian buildings, you will find impressive mosques with towering minarets, ottoman libraries, and ornately designed hammams (Turkish bathhouses). Wherever you choose to base yourself, the Acropolis of Lindos and the Temple of Athena Lindia are well worth a visit, particularly if you are interested in Greek history.
When it comes to beaches and coastlines, there are tons of stunning places where you can relax in Rhodes. The beaches of Tsmbika, Prasonisi, and Kallithea are beloved by tourists and locals alike.
For a taster of traditional island life and culture, stop by the villages of Embonas, Archangelos, and Monolithos. Not only are there a ton of stunning walking trails here, but there are also many artisanal stores where you can sample local wine and honey. These make great Greek souvenirs for your friends and family back at home.
Symi
Symi is a gorgeous little island in the Dodecanese that has only recently started to fall on people’s Greece radars. It is a popular place to visit on a day trip from Rhodes, but Symi certainly deserves more time if your schedule allows it.
The island’s capital, Symi town is a great place to base yourself. It is known for its pastel-coloured neoclassical houses that cascade down the hilltops and line the port, creating a picture-perfect postcard image.
The port area, known as “Gialos” is a worthy place to start exploring. Take photos against the backdrop of the colourful houses, visit the Naval Museum, and have dinner and drinks at one of the waterfront restaurants.
There are also many gorgeous beaches and villages situated within walking distance of the town. The seaside town of Pedi and the breathtaking cove of Emporio, in particular, are worth adding to your radar.
The monastery of Panormitis at the southern tip of the island is one of the most important religious sites in Greece. the monastery is dedicated to Archangel Michael and boasts gorgeous, vibrant interior frescoes, an impressive Bell Tower, and an adjacent religious Museum.
Many of the beaches on Symi Island are largely untouched and require a boat to get to. Particularly beautiful are the beaches of Marathounda, Nanou, and Agios Georgios Dysalonas.
Amorgos
The island of Amorgos is one of the best Greek Islands for older couples and is located in the Cyclades archipelago. It is affectionately known as “The Big Blue”.
This is a great travel destination for those who are looking for an authentic Greek experience. the island capital is known as the Chora and is one of the most popular places to stay.
If you base yourself here, you have a plethora of dining and nightlife options right on your doorstep. The traditional villages of Tholaria, Katapola, and Lagada are also worth considering if you want to stay somewhere even quieter.
Amorgos villages are filled with quintessentially Greek blue and white domed houses and churches, stone-paved alleys, and buildings draped in fragrant pink bougainvillea. They are a photographer’s dream.
Many of the beaches on the island boast soft, powdery white sand and crystalline turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling in. Aegiali beach, Levrossos, Mouros, and Agia Anna are all worth adding to your Amorgos checklist.
If you prefer to explore and walk around rather than spend a lot of your time sitting on the beach, Amorgos offers ample opportunity for that too. The clifftop Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, the old Amorgos windmills, and the ancient city of Minoa are all fascinating places to see.
Alonissos
The little island of Alonissos is the furthest of the Sporades islands from the mainland. It is perhaps best known for being home to the Alonissos Marine Park.
This protected Nature Reserve is the largest of its kind in Europe and is home to various endangered terrestrial and marine life species. In particular, the friendly and adorable Mediterranean monk seal ( monachus monachus) calls Alonossis home.
Many parts of the Alonissos Marine Park are protected and access is restricted. However, in other areas, it is possible to swim, scuba dive, or take a small boat trip.
As well as the monk seal, numerous different types of dolphins live in these waters.
This includes striped dolphins, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins. If you are already PADI certified, there are plenty of places where you can rent diving equipment in the main town of Patitiri.
If you are not, several schools and dive stores offer certification and lessons. Patitiri is the main town in Alonissos and a great place to base yourself.
A bus runs around the island during the summer months although renting a car gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility. From Patitiri, you can follow an old donkey trail to the island’s former capital “Chora”.
Beach-wise, the beaches of Spartines, Tzortzi Gialos, Leftos Gialos, Millia, and Chrisi Milia are among the best.
Paxos
Paxos, often referred to by its plural “Paxoi” is an upscale island paradise in the Ionian, off Greece’s west coast. It has its fans but at least for now, it remains one of the least commercial and quietest Greek islands.
Paxos does not have an airport, although it is easily reached with a 50-minute boat ride from nearby Corfu. Some of the beaches here are so beautiful and pristine that they almost rival those that you find in the Caribbean.
The port area of Gaios is the island’s capital. But the best Paxos itinerary means also taking the time to stop by the more peaceful villages of Loggos and Lakka.
The beaches of Agios Giannakis, Lichnos, Valtos, and Krioneri are places you must visit. From Gaios, you can also take a boat to Paxos’ uninhabited sister island of Antipaxos which is filled with remote beaches and exudes desert island getaway vibes.
You can also combine your trip to Paxos with a visit to the Greek Seaside town of Parga on the west coast of the mainland.
Spetses
Spetses is a chic, upscale island in the Argo-Saronic Gulf off the coast of the Peloponnese. It takes just over 2.5 hours to get to Spetses from Athens.
This is one of the best Greek Islands for hiking and it is perfect for those who enjoy immersing themselves in the great outdoors. Spetses is home to over 4,000 people.
However, the majority of the population lives in the capital of Spetses town, close to the port
Once you leave the main town, Spetses is essentially just one big national park. Cars are prohibited here so the best way to get around is by ATV, moped, or bicycle.
There are enough woodland walking trails, secluded churches and monasteries, and gorgeous beaches here to last you for weeks. The island makes a great stopping point as part of a wider Saronic island hopping itinerary.
Corfu
Corfu (Kerkyra) is one of the best Greek Islands for older couples and one of the most popular Greek islands period. This is the second-largest of the Ionian islands and its Ioannis Kapodistrias international airport is one of the most popular gateways into the country.
Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site. The island was under Venetian rule for more than 400 years so it may come as no surprise that the capital feels more Italian than Greek in parts.
Here, you will find a mishmash of Venetian, French, and Ottoman architecture and cultural influences. There are several important buildings and attractions to look out for including the Mon Repos Palace where Prince Philip was born, the Achilleion Palace built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and the Church of Saint Spyridon, Patron Saint of Corfu.
The old town is a nice place to base yourself for at least a few days of your itinerary. From here, you can also take a day trip out to Kanoni where you can see planes coming in to land or sail out to the uninhabited islet of Pontokonissi (mouse island).
Paleokastritsa is one of the most popular beach towns in Corfu. From here, you can also follow an old donkey trail to the charming little village of Lakones.
Glyfada, Sidari, and Agios Gordios are also popular coastal areas.
Final thoughts on the best Greek islands for older couples
Finding the best Greek islands for older couples is subjective but hopefully, this guide has given you some food for thought. Ultimately, it all comes down to what you are looking for – whether you seek peace and quiet or whether you would like to travel somewhere where there is a social scene that caters to travellers over 50, over 60, etc.
If you want quiet and seclusion, consider Alonissos, Skopelos in the shoulder season, or the villages of Amorgos. If you seek a place with great bars and nightlife, consider Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, or Skiathos.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything else,. I have lived in Greece since 2017. I also run the Greek travel Facebook group “All Greek to Me” where you can discuss planning your trip to Greece with other locals, expats, and travellers.
Safe travels and enjoy Greece! Geia sou! Melissa xo