Published: 02/08/2025 · Updated: 02/08/2025
Contact: editorial@holidaymate.com | About the Author
While the sun-drenched allure of Santorini and Mykonos continues to dominate travel brochures and Instagram feeds, they represent only a fraction of what Greece has to offer. With more than 200 inhabited islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, Greece remains one of the most island-diverse destinations in Europe. And in 2025, amidst volatile airfares and a rising interest in eco-conscious escapes, many travellers are shifting their gaze toward the lesser-known—and more affordable—corners of the Greek archipelago.
Budget-friendly travel is far from a trend; it has become the new standard. According to updated insights from the UNWTO, budget-conscious holidaymakers now make up a significant share of Europe-bound tourists. Greece, with its mix of natural beauty, deep cultural roots, and improving transport links, is primed to meet that demand.
What makes Greece's smaller islands so attractive in 2025 isn’t just their lower costs—it’s the authenticity they preserve. These destinations offer immersive experiences, untouched landscapes, and communities that continue to live by rhythms unaltered by mass tourism.
Take Naxos, for example. The largest of the Cyclades, it offers vast sandy beaches framed by lush green hills and fertile farmland. It hasn’t succumbed to the boutique overpricing of neighbouring Mykonos. Instead, Lonely Planet describes it as "a hidden gem" where meals for two still come in under €30, and affordable ferry connections make it a smart base for island-hopping.
Further afield lies Ikaria, known worldwide for the longevity of its residents. This remote isle invites slow travel with its thermal springs, wild coastlines, and communal village festivals. Accommodation often includes breakfast and a sea view—all for under €50 a night. In a fast-moving world, Ikaria’s embrace of time is priceless.
Then there’s Lefkada, an Ionian island uniquely connected to mainland Greece by a floating bridge. This eliminates ferry costs entirely. Popular among Greek holidaymakers but relatively unknown abroad, Lefkada offers turquoise coves and rugged cliffs without the Corfu price tag. Lonely Planet notes that wild camping is still possible here, and seaside tavernas offer fresh fish at unbeatable prices.
Kalymnos, once the sponge-diving capital of Greece, has rebranded itself as a world-class climbing destination. But the adventure tourism hasn’t led to overdevelopment. Prices for food and lodging remain below the national average, with some families reporting they can dine out for under €25.
On the eastern Aegean, Chios combines history and horticulture. It is home to the unique mastic trees—a product so significant it's recognised by UNESCO. Despite its historical depth, it remains refreshingly under-touristed, and you can still pair a visit to Chios with nearby islands like Samos or Lesbos thanks to regular ferry services. The island’s position off the mainstream map keeps prices grounded and its character intact.
Syros, often overlooked despite being the capital of the Cyclades, is a cultural jewel. With its neoclassical architecture, operatic history, and arts festivals, Syros feels more Venetian than Greek. Accommodation in Ermoupoli, the island's main town, can start from as little as €30 even during the peak summer season.
Just a short ferry from Mykonos lies Tinos, a quiet sanctuary of whitewashed villages and art studios. Here, you can walk from one hillside town to another, dipping into chapels and craft workshops along the way. Local tavernas serve up traditional fare at prices that are nearly half of what you’d find on Mykonos. Boutique homestays, many set in converted village homes, remain under €70 per night.
To the south, Kythira sits geographically closer to the Peloponnese than the Ionian islands it belongs to administratively. It's a favourite among Greek families, largely because it hasn't been overrun by international tourism. It offers waterfalls, hiking trails, and serene beaches—all at a pace and price that harks back to a different era.
In northern Greece, Thassos stands out for its lush forests and emerald waters. Reached by a short ferry ride from the mainland, the island is carpeted in olive groves and ringed with archaeological sites. According to Eurostat's regional tourism data, average hotel prices in Thassos are still below €60 during the 2025 high season.
And finally, there’s Amorgos. Known for its dramatic cliffs and the film The Big Blue, this Cycladic island remains delightfully unspoiled. Its remoteness is a virtue—the ferry takes time, but it’s affordable, and once there, you’ll find guesthouses for under €40 and endless views to match.
Budget Travel Is Booming in 2025
In its September 2024 Tourism Barometer, the UNWTO revealed a clear trend: the traveller of 2025 is value-conscious and experience-driven. Flashy resorts and luxury chains are no longer the measure of a successful holiday. Instead, tourists are seeking deeper cultural experiences, slower itineraries, and destinations that haven’t been reshaped by global tourism.
This shift has provided a second wind for Greece’s lesser-known islands. Better ferry routes, greater transparency in local pricing, and consistent visa-free travel policies for UK and EU citizens have all contributed to their rising appeal. As Lonely Planet points out in its 2025 travel guide, Greece’s affordability is not about compromise—it’s about smart choices.
Final Tip: Let the Ferries Lead the Way
Greece’s ferry system is one of the best in Europe. Travellers looking to combine two or more islands should avoid flights and opt for the sea. Not only does it reduce costs, but it also adds an element of charm to the journey. Lonely Planet recommends travelling overnight where possible or using multi-island passes to cut expenses further.
A well-planned itinerary can link 2–3 of these affordable islands in one trip, allowing you to enjoy the diversity of Greece without blowing your budget.
About the Author
Stuart Kerr is a travel correspondent for Holidaymate.com, specialising in European slow travel, island escapes, and sustainable tourism. Contact him at editorial@holidaymate.com.
Read more about Stuart
