Greece is well-known for its magnificent beaches, fascinating history, and stunning landscape. The islands off mainland Greece boast a fantastic nightlife that draws travellers from all over the world. It’s safe to say it can compete with places like Palma and Ibiza.
With the best DJs in the world and open-night clubs, Greece has grown to be a favourite party destination. Greek party islands are numerous, and you can set sail for the fine sand for lively music and wild celebrations.
Through these Greek island party tours, you get to experience the chance to party in beautiful locations, soak up the sun, and spend the summer travelling between islands and exploring some of the top clubs in the world.
There are various approaches to island hopping. You can fly or take a ferry or boat, depending on where you begin the voyage. Arrange the flight path to make the most of all the islands. For a convenient and comfortable journey, utilising a Priority Pass is advisable.
Further, exploring Greece via ferry is also a delight. You can take a fast boat if you only have a little time. But keep in mind to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. You get the opportunity to discover Greece’s natural beauty during the ferry voyage, and you can never get enough of it.
This party has a lot of things to do. You can do a wine tour throughout the day, even if nightlife is your priority. Check out these fantastic islands to explore today.
12 of the Best Greek Party Islands to Visit
1. Mykonos
This island is unmissable if you’re looking to party in Greece. One of the most well-known islands in Greece, Mykonos, is also called the Ibiza of Greece.
It also ranks well among the best Greek party islands. This island is teeming with bars and nightclubs where you can let loosen up and let your hair down no matter the day of the week.
If you’re lucky, you might even party with famous people and rub elbows with them. Drink margaritas all day and all night long and have a blast. Remember to go to Paradise Beach for a memorable evening.
You must visit Delos and Alefkandra, and if you’re an art enthusiast, you must visit the Rarity Gallery and the breathtaking, spotless beaches. Many tourists start their vacation in Greece at Athens or Mykonos.
2. Corfu
Greece’s most well-known island, Corfu, features large lengths of shoreline and several clubs where you can begin dancing immediately. A flight to Corfu from Mykonos will take roughly five hours. Start your evening with a beverage in a stylish setting in the Old Town, famed for its extensive history.
Proceed to the beach club Pazuzu, just a short distance from the sea’s crystal-clear water. This gorgeous location is well known for hosting fantastic summer events to the sounds of well-known DJs. Enjoy the night in one of the most stunning settings, with breathtaking sunsets.
3. Ios
In 9 hours, you can travel by ferry from Athens to Ios and arrive at the party location. Ios is a popular island for parties. One of Ios’ best beach parties is the perfect place to let your hair down as the day transitions into the evening. The clubs and beaches of Chors, one of the best party islands in Greece, are crowded day and night during the peak season as revellers pour in from all over the city.
You must go to Mylopotas Resort for the ultimate beach party, where you can take in nonstop dancing and music all day long. It is a Cycladic island that provides guests with great good times. Kids can simply locate the ideal location here.
There are many taverns, clubs, and musical venues on this island. You will undoubtedly have the fun of your life. Between Santorini and Naxos, two of Greece’s top party islands are the Cycladic. Paros is an hour away.
4. Paros
You can carry on the celebration from Ios to Paros. If you choose to go via ferry, it takes roughly two hours to go to Paros. The vibrant bars and nightclubs between Naoussa and Parikia are ready to provide endless hours of enjoyment.
This island, also known as Pounda Beach, is a hotspot for young people eager to party the summer away and is teeming with college students in the sweltering summer months. It is one of the most popular party islands in Greece among students.
Amazing clubs like Saloon Door and Galea are abundant there. Paros has many options, no matter what kind of music you like.
Additionally, you can take a day trip to Mykonos or Santorini from here. If you’re not ready to party, you can go shopping, tour vineyards, or just take in the breathtaking sunset.
5. Zakynthos
Zakynthos has a shoreline with something to offer everyone; this is another location that young people love. Start with elegant cocktails surrounded by historical backdrops and work up to bars and clubs where you may unwind at night.
You can go in three hours by ferry from Santorini to Zakynthos. When you go to Zakynthos, you can travel to a number of places, including the most popular party islands in Greece, Tsilivi, Laganas, and Agassi. It is a well-liked vacation spot with several organised party areas among the motels.
Themed nights, pool parties, bar crawls, and boat parties are all available here. You won’t ever get bored because something is always happening here. After a long night, relax on the stunning beaches.
It is also a well-known location for cave exploration, so you must stop by the Keri Caves and Blue Caves while here. The clear, sparkling sea will astound you. There are several water sports that you may do.
When you’re ready to up the ante on the fun, head to Laganas and Tsilivi, where you may party until your feet start to hurt at one of the clubs by the water. Partygoers travel to this island with breathtaking beaches throughout the summer, and it continues to play a significant role in the region’s nightlife hub.
6. Kos
The Dodecanese island chain includes Kos, well-known for its amazing parties, DJ nights, and beach parties every summer. It is a place that you can always count on for a night of your life.
The two streets in the centre of the city are jam-packed with a variety of bars and clubs. This spoils you with plenty of options to choose from every evening of your vacation.
The best Greek party island, Kos, must be on your itinerary. Outside of the town, Kardamena is a skilled party host. Around Agios Stefanos and Tigahi, you will also see a lot of clubs. When it comes to enticing partygoers, this island is undoubtedly well-covered. This, however, is not it.
When in Kos, there are many things to see and do. You can see the island’s Asklepieion archaeological site, Kastri Islet, a little island, and the old Dionysus temple.
7. Skiathos
Despite many endearing traits, one of the busiest Sporades islands is about what occurs after dark. The nightlife is split between two main districts, Papadiamantis Street and Bar Street, with some venues spilling onto Trion Square in the Old Town.
There are lounge bars and nightclubs everywhere. Take advantage of the community’s relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the evening. Many clubs don’t open until after midnight. Enjoy the daybreak.
8. Rhodes
Rhodes is a multiethnic Greek island that offers something for everyone. The best nightclubs and bars can be found all across Rhodes Town. For example, bars in the resort of Faliraki are buzzing with partygoers. The resort offers you the chance to have the time of your life.
Partygoers travel to the island all year round. There are numerous Greek island party cruises offered here. Throughout the summer, these cruises are crowded with tourists. Most of them stay at the Stamos Hotel.
Rhodes is renowned for its extensive must-see attractions and deep-rooted history and culture. A must-see is its mediaeval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Palace, an archaeological museum, castles, gorgeous beaches, and the Valley of the Butterflies are nearby. You get the most out of this place; schedule your day effectively.
9. Santorini
Your journey is incomplete if you don’t get to Santorini in Greece. It appears pastoral and serene in certain places but also knows how to party and celebrate. Enjoy a cocktail at one of the many beach pubs or let loose at a party that one of the best DJs in the world is hosting at a club.
If you wish to unwind and relax, there are several chill lounges, eclectic clubs, jazz, beach bars, and soul and Latin music throughout the night. The Hotel Lignos in the town centre is the perfect location if you’re seeking a private party environment. The décor for the Greek island party is really lovely.
In addition to taking part in Greek island hopping party tours, Santorini offers a variety of additional activities. Visit the genuine Atlantis while watching the sunset at Oia. The cuisine in Greece is world-renowned, and Santorini is not an exemption. The greatest brunches are available in Santorini.
After that, take a boat to Fira and continue to Oia. Explore during the day and unwind with your preferred libations and music at night.
10. Crete
It will take two hours to get from Santorini to Crete by ferry, which runs frequently between the two islands. Crete is a sizable island renowned for its beaches and breathtaking scenery. It continues to be a popular spot for parties on Greek islands.
Explore the Samaria Gorge National Park, the fishing town, the Old Historic Town, and the Sacred Monastery of Arkadi. Without travelling to Crete, it is impossible to experience Greek nightlife to its fullest.
For the largest party in Europe, travel to the resort town of Malia. In close proximity to the best and busiest nightclubs, Crete boasts breathtaking beaches with clear waters. In addition to the typical alcohol cruises, full moon parties, paint parties, and boat parties on various islands, there are some incredible nightclubs and pubs.
For the greatest party scene in town, reserve a room at the Aegean Sky Hotel from anywhere. Although the club and bar opening times vary, they often start after 6 PM, and most clubs stay open until morning. Before entering the party the previous night, confirming the opening and closing times is advisable.
11. Milos
Milos is a tiny island in the Aegean Sea that has recently become a nightlife destination for travellers. The island is home to many resorts, jazz bars, and nightclubs. The Greek island of Milos is renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, which make it the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the sunshine.
Milos is also conveniently located near several other well-known tourist attractions, like Mykonos and Santorini, making it simple to travel nearby by ferry or aircraft. On Milos, clubs, including Club Petrol, Lo-Res Garage, and the Red Bull Music Academy, are some of the most well-liked gathering spots.
Additionally, there are several beach bars and taverns where you can unwind with a drink while admiring the breathtaking scenery if you’re searching for a little more low-key place.
12. Kefalonia
Another party island that draws an older audience is Kefalonia. It’s the ideal location to unwind, connect with old friends, and have a few drinks because there are fantastic beaches and various nightclubs and bars to select from.
Daytime activities available to visitors to Kefalonia include hiking up Mt. Ainos, visiting one of the many wineries, and exploring the island’s many caves. Bars, clubs, and tavernas are Kefalonia venues where you can go for a drink or two at night.
Greece Travel Tips
The most crucial thing to remember is that the authority is quite tough about any illegal activity, and just like any country, they may take legal action against you. Maintain proper behaviour and abide by the clubs’ laws and regulations.
If you dislike crowds, look for the Greek party islands to avoid them and make travel arrangements accordingly. Many travellers have Greece on their bucket list of places to visit. Greece offers something for everyone, whether you enjoy the arts and history or prefer to party on the beach.
One thing you can bet on is that you won’t get bored here, no matter what kind of traveller you are. Depending on the type of events you choose to attend, you can travel from one island to another and have a blast. The nightlife is usually dynamic and thrilling.
The best parties are in Greece! Pick your Greek party islands wisely to get the most out of your holiday. Both high-end hotels and inexpensive hotels can be found here. However, confirming the ferry schedule and frequency before going island hopping is wise.
Plan your travel accordingly since there are several islands where ferries run often. Additionally, ensure you have sufficient leisure time to enjoy the nightlife and explore the destination. Organise your visit accordingly. Try to arrive on the island early so you have the whole day to explore and enjoy the night.
In Greece, you can also go boating, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, paragliding, and paddleboarding. It is the ideal location and provides everything you would need.
May through October are the best months to go if you enjoy water activities. You may easily combine water sports, nightlife, sightseeing, and local cuisine on your upcoming trip to Greece.
Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance. You can find everything in Greece, whether you’re visiting for the nightlife, the stunning scenery, or the art and culture. As you visit the Greek party islands, take in the grandeur of the breathtaking location and delight in the local cuisines and cultures.
In addition to being an experience in and of itself, island hopping in Greece provides a chance to get to know the locals and their culture. Keep in mind to abide by the club’s rules and regulations to prevent any negative consequences. On the stunning Greek party islands, revel in the present moment and live it up.
A Timeline for Visiting the Greek Party Islands
If you want to avoid the intense heat and tourist crowds, the ideal periods to visit the Greek islands are late April, May, June, September, and October.
You can also discover cheaper hotel and vehicle rental rates during certain months. Additionally, it’s simpler to arrange ferry tickets and travel between Greek islands. Let’s dissect this in more detail!
Spring: April and May
In Greece, the final two months of spring are April and May. It implies that you won’t experience the sweltering heat of summer and that there will occasionally be wet days.
Depending on the island and the specific time of year, daytime temperatures often range from 20 to 30 C (68-86 F). The temperature drops in the evenings, so people require some warm clothing. Is spring a suitable season to visit the Greek islands?
Overall, suppose your primary objectives when travelling to the Greek islands are trekking, seeing the ancient monuments, or simply experience local life. In that case, spring is the best season to go. Additionally, you’ll see nature at its finest as you travel the nation and witness numerous vibrant flowers.
However, particularly in April, the sea temperatures can be too chilly, making swimming unsuitable. But if you are from the UK, you may possibly enjoy it. According to reliable reports, guests from the UK seem to enjoy the water temperatures of the Greece waters in April.
In terms of tourist attractions, not all businesses will be operating in late spring. Larger islands will provide a wider selection of eateries, taverns, pubs, etc. Therefore, April and May are excellent times to travel to places like Corfu or Rhodes.
If you want to go to Mykonos, Ios, or Paros for events and parties, spring is not ideal. Later in the year will see the start of these. But if you want to go to Santorini, spring is great because there won’t be as many people there.
Greek Easter in the Islands
Greek Orthodox Easter, which always falls in April or May, marks the beginning of the tourism season on various islands. It’s a special time to travel to the Greek islands and experience the local religion and culture.
In Greece, Easter is a significant holiday. In fact, if you’re looking to explore the local culture, the entire Lenten season, which begins on Clean Monday, is a great time to visit.
You can attend various church services and celebrations over the entire Easter week. Large Easter Sunday feasts, mostly focused on food and wine, mark the conclusion of the Easter weekend.
Remember that Easter is observed in Greece in line with the Greek calendar. It may occasionally fall on the same weekend as the Catholic or Protestant Easter, but this is rare.
If you want a cabin, you should reserve your ferry tickets in advance if you intend to travel around Greek Easter.
The Greek Islands in June
Another wonderful time of year to visit the Greek islands in June. The days are bright and sunny, and the daytime hours are very long.
Most businesses should be open starting in early June instead of the shoulder season months. Compared to July and August, there are fewer visitors now that it’s not peak season.
Although lodging costs are normally greater than during the shoulder months, it is simple to locate cheap hotels and last-minute deals.
The Holy Pentecost Monday, which occurs 50 days following Easter Sunday, is a significant outlier. Since it’s a holiday, many Greeks take advantage of the extended weekend to travel to the nearby islands. As a result, finding last-minute lodging and ferry tickets can frequently be challenging.
Due to the beautiful weather, June is the perfect month to take a beach vacation. Some who have a low tolerance for heat can even find late June to be a little too warm! On several islands, the daytime high is frequently over 30 C (86 F), and the evenings are magnificent.
A family trip in June is also a fantastic idea. The sea has warmed up enough for me, and the beaches won’t be as busy as they are in the height of summer. In addition, the likelihood of the powerful meltemi winds is far lower than it is later in the summer.
Peak Seasons in the Greek Islands: July and August
On the islands, July and August are the busiest months of the summer. Most people find the average daytime temperature is over 30 C (86 F), which is perfect beach weather.
That said, tourists to any Aegean island, including the Cyclades and the Sporades, should be aware of the Meltemi winds. Staying on a sandy beach during these seasonal winds may be difficult, and swimming may even be perilous.
Rain is incredibly rare at this time. The month of August 2022 was an outlier because there were a few days of thunderstorms on some of the islands.
However, the Greek islands are more congested in July and August because those are popular vacation months. Since many Greeks take vacation time during the first three weeks of August, these are the busiest. In the end, hotel rates significantly rise.
You might not have a lot of options unless you make your hotel reservations much in advance. Therefore, should you go to the Greek islands in the summer?
Your choice will depend on your holiday plans. The best months to visit the islands are July and August if your main interests are socialising, parties, and cultural events. The well-known Greek panegyric celebrations are just one of the many events at that time.
There is little doubt that the Greek islands will be at their liveliest if you visit them in August. August will likely be too busy if you prefer calm vacations, especially on the more well-known islands.
Greece’s islands in September
According to many seasoned travellers, September is another ideal month to visit the Greek islands. Most tourists have left by this time, and early September is still full of bright days. Additionally, the sea is warmer now than in the early summer.
The weather frequently does not truly resemble early fall. September weather is still pleasant even though there may be a few wet days, especially around the Ionian Sea.
Having said that, it’s a wise idea to pack a few warm garments. It can be a tad cool at night if you plan to attend fall festivities on the islands.
The October Greek Islands
A vacation to the Greek islands in October may be intriguing. You will see island life in a way few tourists do now that most tourists have left. The weather, however, may be very erratic.
In general, the sea will still be warm enough for swimming even if September won’t be as warm as it usually is. You will have most of the beaches because many loungers and umbrellas will be put away for the winter.
You will enjoy October’s milder weather if your main objective is hiking or visiting archaeological sites and ancient ruins. Just keep an eye on the forecast and avoid any wet days.
Some of the greatest islands to visit in October include Rhodes, Santorini, Kos, Crete, and even Mykonos. Considering Nisyros’ volcanic terrain keeps temps high, I would also love to return there!
Kalymnos is a popular island in October since it hosts the International Climbing Festival. Even if you are not a climber, you may still benefit from the more extended season and wide range of activities.
The surrounding Saronic islands, such as Hydra or Aegina, are easily accessible as day trips from Athens. Additionally, Andros boasts some of the best hiking trails among the Cycladic islands, so if you enjoy trekking, consider visiting there.
What about the Ionian islands, such as Kefalonia or Corfu? They typically have more rain than the rest of the nation, so October may not be the ideal time to visit.
The Greek Islands’ Winter Off-Season
There is a solid reason why few people travel to the Greek islands during the winter. The temperature drops significantly, it rains frequently, and occasionally it even snows!
While there is enough to do in Athens year-round, many islands are relatively peaceful. Most taverns and eateries close during the winter, and there aren’t many places to stay.
Additionally, travelling to the islands during the winter can be a little challenging. You would normally need to travel through Athens or take a ferry from Piraeus because there aren’t many (if any) international direct flights.
Keep in mind that there aren’t any high-speed ferries that run in the summer, and there are only a few ferry connections.
What if you only have the opportunity to travel to Greece and Athens during the off-peak season? Should you stay away from the islands entirely?
In this situation, you might consider travelling to larger islands like Kos, Rhodes, Crete, and Corfu, which have many cultural attractions.
You will still enjoy visiting historical buildings and museums and taking in any winter festivals like Christmas, New Year’s, or the Epiphany, even if it is raining and freezing outside. Here is further information: Greek Christmas celebrations.
On the other hand, it’s usually best to stay away from islands like Mykonos, Ios, or Zakynthos during the winter. You won’t be able to take advantage of their magnificent sand beaches or legendary nightlife. Mykonos is largely deserted during the winter, as is Ios, and you most likely won’t be able to explore the Blue Caves near Zante.
Last, you may travel to Poros, Hydra, and Aegina on year-round island cruises that depart from Athens. It’s a fantastic way to see three islands in the Saronic Gulf in a single day and get a taste of island life during the off-peak months.
Greece’s other winter vacation options
Renting a car and touring mainland Greece in winter is an additional choice. Discover Cars is an online tool that lets you compare several rental car companies and reserve a vehicle. As you can see, renting a vehicle in Greece, off-season will cost you significantly less.
You could, for instance, drive around the Peloponnese. You might travel to Nafplio or Kalamata and explore historic sites like Mycenae and Epidaurus.
Or you can see Ancient Delphi and the breathtaking Meteora monasteries while travelling through Thessaly and central Greece. There are so many places in Greece that are worth visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Many Islands Does Greece Have?
Despite only having 200 inhabited, Greece is home to approximately 6,000 islands and islets. For someone who enjoys island hopping, Greece is the best destination in Europe for a vacation because there is always somewhere new to discover around every corner.
2. Is Partying Fun in Greece?
Yes, Greece is an excellent destination for a trip to a party island. There aren’t many cities in the world that can compare to its party vibe with its warm climate, gorgeous beaches, and bustling nightlife! The renowned beach clubs and hopping nightclubs on the islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios draw revellers worldwide.
3. Which Island Is Worth Visiting First
The majority of tourists choose Santorini as their first stop in Greece. You could also visit Paros, Naxos, Milos, and Crete on the same vacation as other surrounding islands.
4. Which of the Greek Islands Has the Best Weather?
One of the Greek islands with the most excellent weather is Crete, followed by Rhodes. Generally, the Aegean Sea islands have more wind, while the Ionian islands have more humidity.
5. How Much Time Should You Set aside for the Greek Islands?
Many tourists stay on the Greek islands for one or two weeks. The number of inhabited islands in Greece is over 100, so you could easily stay there for several months!
Conclusion: When to Travel to the Greek Islands
In a nutshell, late spring to mid-fall is the perfect season to explore the Greek islands. The most popular season for travel and the greatest time to take in the vibrant island environment and varied activities is summer. The islands may be too crowded, and the weather may be too warm for some.
Most people travel to the Greek islands in the spring or the fall. You may easily find an apartment with sea views for a quarter of the cost in August because the weather is milder, there are fewer people, and lodging is less expensive.
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are excellent times to travel across the Greek islands and enjoy a more genuine experience if your schedule is flexible.