When the world’s main journey journal highlights Greece, the worldwide journey trade listens. Conde Nast Traveller has revealed its new record of the 15 high Greek islands for 2026, showcasing locations that mix authenticity, accessibility, high quality lodging, and experiences past simply “sun and sea.”
The journal emphasizes islands that meet fashionable vacationers’ wants: genuine native life, gastronomy with identification, cultural occasions, nature actions, and boutique or luxurious lodging. Each island has its personal character—some cosmopolitan and well-known, others quiet and off-the-beaten-path.
Highlights by Island:
Paros: Vibrant but balanced; nightlife and gastronomy hubs in Naoussa, with quieter villages like Alyki and Dryos. Recommended stays: Avant Mar, Cosme, Mythic, Moonhouse.
Sifnos: Authentic island accessible solely by ferry; famend gastronomy. Recommended stays: Verina Astra, NÓS, Verina Terra, Sifnos House, Sigma Residences, Mythic Villa.
Syros: Strong cultural life, structure, festivals, and native appeal. Recommended stays: Hotel Ploes, Aristide Hotel, Fanya, Villa Evangelini, Argini.
Folegandros: Traditional Greek island really feel; quiet, rugged, with minimal tourism. Recommended stays: Gundari, Anemomilos, Anemi, Blue Sand Hotel, Maistros.
Kefalonia: Scenic landscapes, relaxed luxurious, and iconic seashores like Myrtos. Recommended stays: Emelisse Nature Resort, F Zeen, Eliamos Villas, Wilderness Whisperings House.
Kastellorizo: Small and secluded; peaceable and minimalist experiences. Recommended stays: Casa Mediterraneo, The Admiral’s House.
Kos: Combines wellness, design motels, and cycling-friendly terrain. Recommended stays: Oku Kos, Lango Design Hotel & Spa, KOIA All-Suite Wellbeing Resort.
Leros: Quiet appeal with architectural contrasts; native cuisine-focused stays. Recommended stays: Villa Clara, Archontiko Angelou.
Santorini: Iconic views; go to throughout shoulder season for finest expertise. Recommended stays: Perivolas, Santo Mine Oia Suites, Grace Hotel, Neema Maison, Andronis Boutique Hotel.
Mykonos: Nightlife and high-end resorts, but additionally quiet coves and family-friendly choices. Recommended stays: Cali Mykonos, Santa Marina, Soho Roc House, Once in Mykonos, Semeli Coast, Belvedere.
Tinos: Cultural depth and conventional arts; a quieter various to Mykonos. Recommended stays: Odera Tinos, Living Theros, Xinara House, The Detailor.
Kythnos: Close to Athens however tranquil; pristine seashores and relaxed ambiance. Recommended stays: Odera, PNOĒS Tinos, Simousi Villas.
Lesvos: Diverse landscapes, cultural richness, gastronomy; ideally suited for curious vacationers. Recommended stays: A-Luxury Villas, Mythical Coast, Zaira Hotel.
Hydra: Artistic and complicated; car-free island with artwork galleries and boutique motels. Recommended stays: Orloff Boutique Hotel, Mandraki Beach Resort, Mirkella.
Crete: Everything in one island; historical past, nature, gastronomy, and resorts; can assist nearly year-round visits. Recommended stays: The Royal Senses Resort & Spa, Phāea Cretan Malia, Acro Wellness Suites, Tella Thera, Phāea Blue, Kapsaliana Village, Villa Cien, Metohi Kindelis.
These islands provide a mixture of basic favorites, hidden gems, cultural hubs, and genuine experiences, making Greece a high journey vacation spot for 2026.