Discover Five Hidden Greek Gems as Breathtaking as Santorini—Without the Crowds [International Edition]

• Greece boasts 227 populated islands, each offering distinct attractions.
• EXPLORE FURTHER: I put an all-inclusive vacation to the test to see if it offers good value for money.

Excessive tourism is a trending subject in Greece amidst crowds of selfie enthusiasts flooding popular vacation destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu.

However, don't let that discourage you from experiencing Greek culture firsthand.

Across the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Ionian Seas, there are 227 populated islands where tourism remains sparse for some.

MailOnline Travel has picked out five top choices below, each offering plenty of sunshine, beaches, seas, and tranquility with fewer crowds.

The 'untouched allure' and 'hidden shores' of Tilos, along with the 'isolated yet peaceful' atmosphere of Amorgos, make these lesser-known Greek islands highly appealing for your next trip.

The most challenging aspect will be deciding which destination you should visit first...

Tilos

Tilos sits centrally between Kos and Rhodes in the Aegean Sea; it boasts only a small resident community of around 746 individuals with minimal tourist presence.

Unforgettable Greece 'Tilos is a small island in the Dodecanese archipelago, known for attracting free campers and those looking for peaceful vacations.'

Tilos Island remains free from large-scale tourism and retains its pristine allure. The beaches are hidden away—ideal for individuals seeking seclusion.

The small capital of Tilos is Megalo Chorio, nestled at the foot of a mountain featuring an imposing medieval castle atop. The most active town on the island is Livadia, known for being its main harbor.

Chios

Chios, the fifth biggest Greek island located in the north Aegean Sea near Turkey, draws some visitors to its principal town; however, much of its landscape consists of tranquil rural areas and stays relatively understated.

Travel guide website Greeka 'Chios is an exceptionally attractive island that remains largely unspoiled by tourism even though it boasts numerous attractions including stunning beaches and remarkable medieval villages.'

'Low tourist traffic can be attributed to Chios being economically self-reliant for numerous years.'

'The peace and genuine charm of Chios, combined with its diverse and lush scenery, charming towns, and picturesque shores, render this island a superb place for vacations.'

Kythira

Discover Greece states: 'Kythira is an island that isn’t small located in the southern part of Peloponnese.'

'This place isn’t easily accessible; perhaps that’s why it hasn’t been developed for tourism.'

You can get to the island via ferry — multiple departures run throughout the day — however, if you prefer flying, you'll have to first stop in Athens prior to catching another flight to Kythira Island National Airport.

The additional effort might pay off, however, as Cycladia 'Kythira boasts exceptional natural beauty and scenic attractions, coupled with stunning beaches... in short, some of the top destinations to explore in Greece.'

Amorgos

Greeka Comments: 'Amorgos does not rank as one of the premier vacation spots in Greece; instead, it is an isolated island that has maintained its traditional buildings and quaint lifestyle.'

'Popular among those seeking unconventional travel, natural beauty, and peace, Amorgos provides serene moments and exceptional encounters.'

Lonely Planet states: 'The winding roadway that stretches along the lengthy Amorgos mountain range, linking the primary villages, stands out as one of the most picturesque routes in the Cyclades.'

It calls Kalotaritisas Bay the island's 'most beautiful beach'.

Samos

Samos, home to approximately 33,000 residents, is more recognizable compared to several other islands featured here; however, it offers numerous laid-back and understated regions.

Lonely Planet states: 'Apart from its understated accommodations and the main city of Vathy, there are many hidden gem beaches and serene locations nestled within the shady, wooded highlands where traditional ways of life persist.'

Villages such as Manolates, Palaio Karlovassi, Platanos, and Spatharei are described as charming and worthy of a visit by traveler Nicksy. TripAdvisor.

Discover Greece recommends visitors to explore Mikri Lakka beach, mentioning: 'This beach is among the smallest and most private ones in Samos, shielded from winds and featuring smooth stones along with seashells, surrounded by tranquil azure waters.'

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