Over-tourism is a hot topic in Greece with throngs of selfie-takers choking holiday hotspots like Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu.
But don’t let that put you off the chance to get a taste of Greek life for yourself.
There are 227 inhabited islands across the Mediterranean, Aegean and Ionian Seas – some of which see very few tourists.
MailOnline Travel has selected five of the best below – all of which offer abundant sun, sand, sea and serenity without the crowds.
From the ‘unspoiled charm’ and ‘secluded beaches’ in Tilos, to the ‘remote’ but ‘tranquil’ Amorgos, these off-the-beaten-track Greek islands will have you keen to book a flight.
The hardest part will be choosing which one you head to first…
Tilos
MailOnline Travel has selected six of the best lesser-known Greek islands. Unforgettable Greece says: ‘Tilos island (above) is still untouched by mass tourism and keeps its unspoiled charm’
In the Aegean Sea, Tilos lies midway between Kos and Rhodes – it has a permanent population of just 746 people and few tourists.
Tilos lies midway between Kos and Rhodes in the Aegean Sea – it has a permanent population of just 746 people and few tourists.
Unforgettable Greece says: ‘Tilos is a tiny island of the Dodecanese, popular among free campers and people who are seeking quietness in their holidays.
‘Tilos island is still untouched by mass tourism and keeps its unspoiled charm. The beaches are secluded – perfect for those who seek privacy.’
The capital of Tilos is pint-sized Megalo Chorio which is situated at the base of a mountain with a Medieval Castle at the top while its busiest town is the port of Livadia.
Chios
Travel guide website Greeka notes: ‘Chios (above) is a very beautiful island that is still quite untouched by tourism’
Greeka says Chios, shown here, is ‘an excellent holiday destination’
Chios, the fifth largest Greek island situated in the northern Aegean Sea close to Turkey, attracts some tourists in its main town, but has lots of quiet countryside and remains fairly low-key.
Travel guide website Greeka notes: ‘Chios is a very beautiful island that is still quite untouched by tourism despite its various beauties such as its wonderful beaches and its superb medieval villages.
‘Low tourism is due to the fact that Chios was economically self-sufficient for many years.
‘The tranquility and authenticity of Chios, along with its varied and verdant landscape, its fine villages and its idyllic beaches make this island an excellent holiday destination.’
Kythira
Cycladia notes: ‘Kythira (above) offers remarkable natural beauty and sightseeing attractions, along with wondrous beaches’
Discover Greece says: ‘Kythira is a not-so-small island in the south of Peloponnese.
‘It’s not very easy to access, this is probably why it’s not touristically developed.’
The island can be reached by ferry – several sail throughout the day – but if you want to fly you’ll need to stop in Athens before taking a second flight to Kythira Island National Airport.
The extra effort could be worth it though, as Cycladia notes: ‘Kythira offers a remarkable natural beauty and sightseeing attractions, along with wondrous beaches… in brief some of the best places to visit in Greece.’
Amorgos
Amorgos is a ‘favourite island for lovers of alternative tourism, nature and tranquillity’, says travel guide website Greeka
Lonely planet says Kalotaritisas Bay (pictured) is the island’s ‘loveliest beach’
Greeka comments: ‘Amorgos is not among the top holiday destinations in Greece; on the contrary, it is a remote island that has preserved its traditional architecture and old-fashioned way of life.
‘A favourite island for lovers of alternative tourism, nature and tranquillity, Amorgos offers moments of relaxation and unique experiences.’
Lonely Planet says: ‘The ribbon of road that winds its way along the long Amorgos’ ridge of mountains, connecting the main villages, is among the most beautiful drives in the Cyclades.’
It dubs Kalotaritisas Bay the island’s ‘loveliest beach’.
Samos
Samos, with a population of around 33,000, is better known than some islands on this list, but it boasts a plethora of relaxed, unostentatious areas
Discover Greece suggests tourists go to Mikri Lakka beach – one of those pictured above on the East of the island
Samos, with a population of around 33,000, is better known than some islands on this list, but it boasts a plethora of relaxed, unostentatious areas.
Lonely Planet says: ‘Beyond its low-key resorts and the capital, Vathy, there are numerous off-the-beaten-track beaches and quiet spots in the cool, forested inland mountains where traditional life continues.’
Villages like Manolates, Palaio Karlovassi, Platanos and Spatharei are ‘quaint’ and worth a visit, according to visitor Nicksy, on TripAdvisor.
Discover Greece suggests tourists go to Mikri Lakka beach, stating: ‘It’s one of the smaller and most secluded beaches in Samos, protected from the wind and with fine pebbles and shells and calm blue waters.’
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