With its beautiful beach, rich history, and delectable cuisine, Greece is a dream destination for many travellers. However, it is also known for being somewhat expensive, especially during peak tourist season. But don’t worry, there are plenty of budget-friendly islands in Greece that offer low-cost lodging, food, and activities. In this guide, we’ll go over some of Greece’s best budget-friendly islands, as well as practical tips for making the most of your low-cost vacation.
5x Budget-Friendly Islands in Greece
Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest and most diverse island, with a wide range of reasonably priced accomodation and dining options. Hotels, guesthouses, and apartments are reasonably priced in Crete’s cities and villages, especially during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October). Crete also has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, with many of them being free to visit. You can also visit ancient ruins, hike in the mountains, and dine at local restaurants on a budget.
Rhodos
Rhodes, like Crete, is a larger, more popular island that is less expensive to fly to during the summer. It has a lot of cheap hotels, restaurants, and activities. Many free attractions are available, including the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes and the Acropolis of Rhodes. The island also has lovely beaches that are free to visit. Furthermore, public transportation is inexpensive and easily accessible, allowing visitors to explore the island without spending too much.
Naxos
Naxos is a charming island that is ideal for budget-conscious visitors. There are cheap accommodations in the main town and surrounding villages, as well as cheap eats at local tavernas and cafes. Naxos also has some of Greece’s best beaches, including Agios Prokopios and Plaka, both of which are free to visit. You can also visit the ancient temple of Apollo or climb Mount Zas for panoramic views of the island.
Paros
Paros is another inexpensive island that is ideal for those seeking a relaxing vacation. There are cheap accommodations in the main town and surrounding villages, as well as cheap eats at local tavernas and cafes. Paros also has some beautiful beaches that are free to visit, such as Kolymbithres and Santa Maria. You can also visit the charming villages of Paros, such as Naoussa and Lefkes, or go on a day trip to nearby Antiparos.
Milos
Milos is a lesser-known Greek island that is ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination. There are inexpensive accommodations in Adamas and the surrounding villages, as well as plenty of cheap eats at local tavernas and cafes. Milos also has some beautiful beaches, such as Sarakiniko and Firiplaka, which are free to visit. You can also visit Milos’ colourful fishing villages, such as Klima and Mandrakia, as well as the island’s ancient ruins and catacombs.
Practical tips
Aside from a less expensive destination, there are more general tips for all Greek islands that can help you plan a pleasant vacation without spending too much money. After all, the beaches are free, but you have to pay for everything else around them.
Planning Your Trip:
- Travel during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) to benefit from lower prices and fewer crowds. This can apply to travel, rental, and lodging expenses.
- Use Google Travel to find the cheapest flight to one of the islands without specifying an arrival location.
- Instead of flying, consider taking a ferry or boat between islands. It may be less expensive. This, in conjunction with a flight to Athens or one of Greece’s largest islands.
Accommodation and local transport
- Instead of hotels, consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as guesthouses, apartments, or campsites. Travel organisations’ combination packages are sometimes less expensive than booking tickets and accommodations separately.
- Instead of taxis or rental cars, take public transportation or rent a scooter or bicycle to get around the island. Rent a car early in the high season to avoid price increases. Visiting a local rental car company during low season can help you save money on car rentals
- To save money on food, book a hotel without breakfast and go to local markets and supermarkets to buy breakfast, snacks, fruits, and vegetables. Mini markets are typically more expensive than larger markets.
Activities and Dining:
- Take advantage of free activities such as hiking, exploring beaches, snorkelling, and visiting ancient ruins.
- Rent a beach umbrella and chair on less popular beaches where prices are lower. Alternatively, bring your own chair with an umbrella or purchase one locally.
- Book your activity directly with the local rather than through a travel agency.
- Avoid expensive restaurants in the harbour and city centre. Local tavernas and cafes in small villages and remote locations are usually more affordable.
- Sharing starters or a main course with your group can provide variety while also saving money. It’s also common to order a litre of house wine with your company instead of a glass each.
- Look for local barbecues where you can get delicious food and drinks for a low cost.
- Bring your own reusable water bottle to refill instead of purchasing bottled water, which can be expensive and harmful to the environment. There are frequent water tap locations around the island, and your hotel may have a water filter.
Finally, Greece is a fantastic vacation destination with beautiful beaches, delicious food, and a rich history. However, it can be costly, especially during peak tourist season. Fortunately, there are numerous budget-friendly islands in Greece that provide low-cost lodging, food, and activities. You can enjoy a cost-effective vacation in Greece without sacrificing quality or enjoyment by following the practical tips outlined in this guide, such as travelling during the shoulder season, booking budget-friendly accommodation, using public transportation, participating in free activities, and dining at local tavernas and cafes. You can have an amazing time exploring all that Greece has to offer without breaking the bank with a little bit of planning and flexibility.
