Ask someone to run you through all of the scenic spots in the Greek Islands, and they’ll likely respond with “how long have you got?”. When it comes to breathtaking scenery, visitors are spoiled for choice in this part of the world, with the islands offering an abundance of both man-made and natural places of beauty.

You may already be well acquainted with some of the more popular views, which are unapologetically plastered across travel brochures and Instagram feeds alike. We took on the daunting task of narrowing it down to just four of the most spectacular must-see destinations, which show off all that the Greek Islands have to offer.

Lindos Acropolis, Rhodes

Rhodes is one of the leading Greek islands when it comes to historical significance, and was even home to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Besides the UNESCO-listed Medieval City, another of the island’s crowning glories is the Lindos Acropolis. Built in the 4th century BC, it is a fortified citadel containing many reminders of Rhodes’ former wealth. Included within the ruins are the remains of various temples, staircases, and even an auditorium which was said to once host 1,800 spectators.

You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy the sights at Lindos Acropolis, which come highly recommended by travel experts. Set 116m above the Mediterranean Sea, the views seen here can rival those found anywhere on the island. Not only will you be treated to far- reaching views of the Med, but due to the lofty vantage point, you can also see across large parts of the mainland.

Oia Village, Santorini Island

It would be remiss of us to assemble a list pertaining to the most scenic views in the Greek Islands without a nod to Oia Town in Santorini. A mecca for wandering Instagrammers, this historic postcard town has been propelled into the limelight, becoming one of the most photographed places in the country.

Photo by Gurwinder Singh on Unsplash

Widely believed to be home to one of the most beautiful sunsets anywhere in Europe, Santorini has become synonymous with honeymoons and romantic escapes. In the daytime, visitors can gaze upon the endless rows of whitewashed buildings and blue-roofed churches, perched on the cliffside overlooking the Aegean Sea. As night falls, the colour scheme on this enchanting island is transformed, as deep shades of orange and red fill the cobbled
streets, staining the unblemished white constructions.

One of the best spots to see this world-famous view is from Oia Castle, which overlooks Amoudi Bay. You might want to set off early, however, as there are plenty of steps involved, and the viewpoint can get very busy, particularly at sunset.

The Windmills of Chora, Mykonos

If you don’t fancy fighting through hordes of tourists to get your sunset snap in the Greek Islands, Mykonos is a worthy alternative to Santorini. Whilst there are countless places on the island to admire the stunning vistas on offer in this part of the world, the most popular spot is from the windmills in Chora.

Photo by nikos sgouros on Unsplash

In total, there are 16 disused windmills placed strategically across the island, but the biggest and most photogenic cluster is found on the hills in Chora on the western tip. These quintessential features have become something of a hallmark of Mykonos, and are favoured by tourists looking for a memorable photo opportunity. For some of the best views of the Mykonion sky anywhere on the island, head to the windmills at sunset.

The windmills are easily accessible, too. They are conveniently situated just five minutes from a local bus station, and there is also a car park just a short walk away if you are driving on the island.

Vlacherna Monastery, Corfu

Connected to Corfu’s mainland by a stone pier, Vlacherna Monastery is perched floating on the Ionian Sea on the eastern edge of the island. Constructed in the 17th century, the building was used as a nunnery up until the 1980s. Nowadays, it is primarily used as a tourist attraction, featuring a small gift shop, but some celebrations and religious ceremonies still take place in the monastery.

Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash

This area was thrust into the spotlight by Roger Moore, whose portrayal of James Bond in ‘For Your Eyes Only’ was captured, in large parts, in Corfu. Eagle-eyed Bond fans will recognise the footbridge which connects the monastery to the mainland, on which Moore can be spotted in one scene of the film.

The small plot of land seen behind the monastery is Mouse Island, which can be accessed via boat from the harbour. According to Greek Mythology, this islet was once Odyssey’s ship, but when a storm washed it out, Poseidon turned the vessel into the stone which now forms Mouse Island. Believe it or not, the charming island certainly adds to the stunning vistas in Corfu.