Fancy lounging on a sun-drenched terrace, a glass of local wine in hand, and the Aegean Sea shimmering before you? Welcome to Greek island life! Expect stunning views, friendly locals, and a lifestyle that doesn't cost the earth.
Let us explore the most popular islands with expats and see whether you can find the one that stands out for you as your possible home abroad.
1. Crete
The largest and most populous island, Crete, offers a diverse landscape, from mountains to beaches. Its well-developed infrastructure makes it suitable for year-round living. There are schools, hospitals, 3 airports, banks, shopping, and various day-to-day services.
It is the best island for families with children as there is an international school in Heraklion that includes a nursery, primary, and secondary school.
Crete attracts many tourists, but it is generally less touristy than Santorini, for example, and it has a life beyond tourism. Still, from October to April, life gets quieter, and many tourist businesses close their doors.
Climate and weather: a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers are sunny and warm, ranging from the high 20s to mid-30s°C (80s-90s°F), perfect for the beach. Winters are mild, rarely below 10°C (50°F), and a bit rainy, especially in the mountains. Coastal areas get nice sea breezes, while the southern part of the island stays warmer and drier.
Travel: You can fly directly to Crete via Heraklion International Airport (HER) or Chania International Airport (CHQ). Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) and other Greek islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, connect to Crete's major ports in Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos.
Popular towns and villages: Chania, Heraklion, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Hersonissos, Ierapetra, and Sitia.
For more details, visit our Living In Crete guide.
2. Corfu
Corfu is a hit with expats who are after a laid-back life on one of the greenest Greek islands thanks to the island's more frequent rainfall, especially in the winter months.
Most expats in Corfu live in Corfu town, and there is a good reason for this. Corfu is very busy during the high season. However, when the tourists leave, the island can be a bit too quiet and dull, with only Corfu Town remaining open. In the villages, tavernas, bars, supermarkets, tourist shops, and accommodations typically close. Naturally, expats who need services and entertainment all year round tend to gravitate towards Corfu Town.
Corfu Town is great - Venetian architecture, pretty streets, very walkable, and all the signs of life beyond tourism, as well as a lively expat community.
Climate and weather: Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures range from the mid-20s to mid-30s°C (70s-90s°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and frequent rainfall.
Travel: During the tourist season, you can fly directly to Corfu International Airport from many major European cities, while in the off-season, you will have to get connected flights in Athens. There are also regular ferry services connecting Corfu to mainland Greece, particularly from the port of Igoumenitsa and to other Ionian Islands.
Popular towns and villages: Corfu Town, Gouvia, Kassiopi, Sidari, Acharavi, and Paleokastritsa.
For more details, visit our Living In Corfu guide.
3. Lefkada
Here is a unique island for you: Lefkada in the Ionian Sea. Located 78 meters away from the west coast of central Greece, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a long causeway and floating bridge, making it easily accessible by car.
Lefkada is just like the tourist flyers: turquoise crystal-clear waters, majestic white cliffs, and lush green vegetation. The beaches are mesmerizing and stunningly beautiful. They are the main draw for tourists here.
Lefkada is a top sailing spot due to its calm, safe waters and easy access to nearby islands. The new marina in Lefkada Town, located southeast of the city center, is a highlight it itself. It's one of Greece's most modern and beautiful marinas, with space for over 620 boats. It's very popular, becoming a lively hub with restaurants and bars at night where you can have a late meal watching the sunset.
Nearby, the bus station provides transport to most of Lefkada's sites and villages.
Lefkada has everything you need to live comfortably year-round, though being a tourist destination, it becomes quieter in the off-season.
Like in Corfu, most expats in Lefkada live in or near the main town. Lefkada Town is small and easy to walk around. The main street, Ioannou Mela, called Dorpfeld near the seafront, is pedestrianized and runs directly from the water, extending the causeway.
There are a few supermarkets in the town, Lefkada General Hospital, banks, and essential services.
Climate and weather: Hot, dry summers, mild, wet winters. The temperatures are highest on average in August, at around 25.3 °C (77.6 °F).
Travel: Lefkada is well-connected to the mainland (a 4-hour drive to Athens) and nearby islands (Ithaka, Kefalonia, Corfu). Buses linking it to major Greek cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Ioannina. From April to November, the nearby Aktion Preveza Airport offers frequent flights to Europe. All year round, you can reach Italy from Igoumenitsa, just an hour and 15 minutes away by car. In the summer, ferries connect Nidri and Lefkas Town to Ithaka, Kefalonia, and Corfu.
Popular towns and villages: Lefkada Town and the surrounding villages.
4. Mykonos
While known for its party scene, Mykonos offers a high-end lifestyle with luxury amenities - straight from the front page of a lifestyle magazine.
The island, famous for its incessant nightlife and Instagrammable beaches, buzzes with tourists during the summer. You'll find yourself navigating through a sea of sunburnt travelers and glittering beach parties. The energy is infectious, but the whole scene can feel a bit too high-octane at times.
However, the charm of Mykonos comes with a price tag. It's no secret that living costs here are high, thanks to the constant influx of tourists willing to shell out big bucks. Rent is steep, and a meal at a local taverna can cost as much as a fancy dinner in any European capital.
Mykonos is well-equipped: top-notch restaurants, chic boutiques, and all the essential services you’d need, including hospitals, banks, etc. In winter, the island doesn't shut down entirely, but it gets significantly quieter. You can still find enough open shops and local spots to keep you going. Also, winter sunsets here are amazing!
Mykonos Town, also known as Chora, is the island's capital and largest town. This is where most expats choose to live. It's a labyrinth of streets lined with cafes, restaurants, tavernas, souvenir shops, boutiques, and jewelry stores. The town center is mostly pedestrianized, with many lanes too narrow, even for scooters and bicycles.
Climate and weather: a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild winters. From June to September, temperatures range from the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (80s to 90s Fahrenheit), perfect for beachgoers. The Meltemi winds provide a refreshing breeze, especially in July and August. Winters are mild, with temperatures around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-60 Fahrenheit) and occasional rain from November to February.
Travel: You can fly directly to Mykonos Airport from many major European cities during the tourist season. In the winter (November to April), there are limited domestic flights. There are also frequent ferry services connecting Mykonos to other Greek islands and the mainland, particularly from Piraeus and Rafina ports in Athens.
Popular towns and villages: Chora and nearby villages.
5. Santorini
With its iconic caldera views and upscale resorts, Santorini attracts a sophisticated crowd seeking a romantic and luxurious lifestyle. The island's beauty is undeniable, but it does come with a cost. Prices rocket during the tourist season, with rent and dining out being particularly expensive in hotspots like Fira and Oia.
In the winter, Santorini transforms into a peaceful haven. The crowds thin out, leaving you to enjoy the island in a more relaxed setting. Many businesses close for the off-season, but there are still plenty of cafes and local spots open.
Healthcare here is reliable, with a hospital in Fira and several clinics around the island. For more specialized care, a trip to the mainland might be necessary, but for everyday health needs, you'll be well-covered. Pharmacies are easy to find and well-stocked, so getting medications is never a problem.
Santorini has all the amenities you need for a comfortable life. There are supermarkets, local markets, schools, fitness centers, and plenty of recreational activities. Whether you’re into water sports or hiking, there’s always something to do. While island living comes with a few quirks like occasional transportation issues and lack of urban sophistication, if you are after luxury island living, Santorini is definitely the place to check out.
Climate and weather: a Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. From June to September, temperatures typically range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), perfect for beach days and outdoor activities. The winter months, from December to February, see cooler temperatures averaging around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit) and occasional rainfall.
Travel: During the summer, there are numerous direct flights from major European cities to Santorini International Airport, along with frequent domestic flights from Athens. Ferries also run regularly from Piraeus and other islands. In the winter, you can catch regular flights from and to Athens. Ferries operate year-round, although the schedule may be less frequent than in the summer.
Popular towns and villages: Fira, Oia, and Kamari
For more information, read our Living In Santorini guide.
6. Rhodes
Looking for a Mediterranean island living with friendly prices? Check our Rhodes. It's generally more affordable than other popular islands.
Rhodes Town, the island's capital, has all the amenities you need. There are supermarkets, local markets, and a variety of shops and boutiques, as well as plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are also loads of activities like water sports, hiking, and exploring ancient ruins.
The main public hospital in Rhodes Town offers comprehensive services, and there are several private clinics around the island. While you might need to go to Athens for some specialized treatments, everyday healthcare needs are well-covered.
Rhodes has its quirks, but they add to its charm. The slower pace of life might take some getting used to if you're coming from a big city. Public transport is present, but having a car is handy for exploring the island. Summers are lively with tourists, but winters are quieter, with some businesses closing for the season.
Climate and weather: Hot, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. From June to September, temperatures typically range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities. Winters are much milder, averaging around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional rain.
Travel: In summer, you can fly directly to Rhodes from many major European cities or from Athens. Regular ferries also run from Piraeus and other Greek islands. In winter, there are regular flights from Athens and other Greek cities. Ferries operate year-round, though with a less frequent schedule than in summer.
Popular towns and villages: Rhodes Town and villages in proximity.
7. Naxos
The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos is a great option if you are seeking a more authentic Greek experience. Unlike some of its more famous neighbors, Naxos has managed to retain a more authentic and less commercialized charm. It is also quite affordable compared to hotspots like Mykonos or Santorini.
The island has all the day-to-day facilities you need for a comfortable life. In Chora, the main town, you'll find the main hospital, supermarkets, local markets, boutique shops, and cafes. The usual array of activities common to all Mediterranean islands is available: watersports, hiking, windsurfing, and exploring traditional villages.
Naxos gets a good number of tourists in the summer, bringing a lively vibe and a boost to the local economy. However, it's never too crowded, so the island retains its peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Things quiet down a bit in the winter, with some businesses closing or reducing hours, but there's still enough open to meet your needs.
Climate and weather: Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. From June to September, temperatures typically range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). In the winter, temperatures drop to 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), and the island experiences more frequent showers.
Travel: In summer, you can take frequent direct flights from Athens or hop on one of the many ferries from Piraeus, Mykonos, or Santorini. In winter, direct flights from Athens continue but are less frequent, and ferries operate year-round with a reduced schedule.
Popular towns and villages: Chora and the surrounding villages.
Life on Greek islands - what you need to know
Before you embark on your dream journey to a carefree life by the beach, take note: island living does come with its challenges. Read on and consider this your heads-up—are you ready to handle the quirks that come with paradise?
Limited public transportation
Although there is public transportation on the islands, it’s not very frequent. Most expats buy cars to get around.
Seasonal economy
Islands such as Santorini and Mykonos are highly dependent on tourism. During the off-season, many restaurants, shops, and services shut down, leading to reduced economic activity and fewer job opportunities.
Healthcare access
While larger islands like Crete and Rhodes have good healthcare facilities, smaller islands like Amorgos and Symi may only have basic medical centers. For specialized care or emergencies, residents might need to travel to Athens or other major cities on the mainland.
Shipping and supplies
Islands like Naxos and Paros might experience delays in receiving packages and supplies, particularly during adverse weather conditions or peak tourist season when demand is high.
Weather
The Cyclades, including islands like Mykonos and Naxos, are known for strong Meltemi winds in the summer, which can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities. In the winter, islands like Corfu can experience heavy rains, impacting daily life.
Sea storms can cut off seaborne transportation between islands, especially when there are strong winds. They are common during the off-season but extremely rare during the tourist season.
Isolation
Smaller, less touristy islands like Karpathos and Tilos can feel quite isolated, especially during the winter months when the number of visitors drops significantly and social activities are limited.
Infrastructure
Islands such as Serifos and Sikinos may face infrastructure challenges, including occasional power outages, water shortages, and limited internet connectivity, affecting daily convenience and comfort.
Cost of living
Popular tourist destinations like Mykonos and Santorini have a high cost of living, with expensive housing and imported goods, making everyday life more costly compared to less touristy islands like Lemnos or Kythnos.
FAQs about living on Greek islands
Which Greek island is best for a long-term stay?
For a long-term stay, Crete, with all its amenities and a lively year-round vibe, is a fantastic choice. Towns like Chania, Heraklion, and Rethymno have everything you need, from hospitals and schools to shops and restaurants. The cost of living is reasonable, and there's always something to do. Plus, there is a sizable expat community here.
What is the best Greek island for those in their 50s?
For those over 50, Crete, again, is a great option. It offers a comfortable lifestyle with great amenities, quality healthcare, and a big expat community.
Which Greek island is less hot in summer?
If you are looking for a Greek island with milder summers, Corfu is a great option. Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu tends to have cooler temperatures in the summer compared to other Greek islands, thanks to its lush green landscape and more frequent rainfall.
Another island to consider is Santorini. Santorini rarely suffers from heat waves over 30℃, and the summer breeze of the Aegean keeps the island cool.
Although Corfu and Santorini have less hot summers compared to other Greek islands, it still gets pretty hot there. It is Mediterranean climate in full swing we are talking about, and it does get hot in summer!
What's the cheapest Greek island to live on?
Naxos is often considered one of the most affordable Greek islands. It offers a lower cost of living compared to more tourist-heavy islands like Mykonos and Santorini. Rent, groceries, and dining out are relatively inexpensive, and the island's agricultural abundance means fresh local produce is both plentiful and affordable.
Which Greek island is best for Brits?
For Brits looking to live in Greece, Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Zakynthos, and Naxos are top choices. Crete offers diverse landscapes and modern amenities, while Corfu has lush scenery and a friendly expat community. Rhodes combines historical charm with excellent infrastructure, and Zakynthos is known for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife. Naxos provides a quieter, authentic Greek experience. Each island has unique appeals, so visiting a few can help you decide which suits your lifestyle best.
You might find useful:
- Living In Greece As An Expat - a detailed guide to moving to Greece
- Greece: Visas And Residency Options - legalities of moving to Greece
- Best Places To Live In Greece
