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Chris's Guide

Greek Islands.

Everyone goes to Santorini. Here's where to actually go.

The Honest Take

When I pictured the Greek Islands — white limestone cliffs, water so blue it looks fake — I was picturing the Ionian Islands. Not Santorini. I went to Santorini and it was probably the most overrated place I've ever been. The Ionians were what I was actually looking for.

Island One

Zakynthos.
One world-class thing.

Top 5 Views in the World

Navagio Beach.

Zakynthos · Ionian Islands · Greece

I rank it as my #3 view in the world.

One honest caveat: I spent a good chunk of the day exploring Zakynthos and even wandered off-trail looking for another viewpoint worth recommending. I never found one. The island is probably a completely different experience from the water, and if I went back, that's exactly what I'd do. But from land, Navagio Beach is the reason to come — and honestly, it's reason enough.

The Better Island

Kefalonia has more to explore — and rewards you for it.

Kefalonia vs Zakynthos

Kefalonia.
Three spots worth going for.

If you can, go to both. But Kefalonia has more to explore.

Myrtos Beach Kefalonia
Stop 01

Myrtos Beach

One of the most dramatic beaches in the Mediterranean — turquoise water against white pebbles backed by steep green cliffs. The overlook on the way down is worth stopping for.

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Petani Beach Kefalonia
Stop 02

Petani Beach

Less crowded than Myrtos and equally stunning. The drive down is steep and narrow but the beach at the bottom is worth every switchback. Get here early in summer.

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Melissani Cave Lake Kefalonia
Stop 03

Melissani Cave Lake

An underground lake inside a partially collapsed sea cave, lit from above by a hole in the ceiling. The light on the water is unlike anything else. Go mid-day when the sun hits the opening directly.

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The Question Everyone Has

What about Santorini?

I'll just say it: Santorini was probably the most overrated place I've ever been. People built it up as this visually stunning, incredible place and I just didn't find it that impressive. Sure the white buildings were cool but the surrounding landscape just didn't do it for me. I've had people tell me they've loved Santorini and Mykonos — and that's totally valid. But when I landed in Santorini at 6:30pm, I left the next morning. The Ionian Islands were what I was actually picturing when I thought "Greek Islands." White limestone, bright blue water, dramatic coastline. That's Zakynthos and Kefalonia. If your time is limited, my hot take is: skip Santorini and head west.

More worth exploring.

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