Eros and Exploration: The Best Greek Islands for Couples
Take a romantic trip to one of these romanic islands, lovingly chosen for you by Plum Guide
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For a romantic getaway, you can’t beat the sandy beaches and warm seas of Greece. Treat yourself and your partner to the ultimate break on one of the best islands for couples, as recommended by us. Here at Plum Guide, we pride ourselves on giving you only the very best, be it homes or advice, so follow our expert guide for the couples break of a lifetime.
Explore Santorini with your partner
View over the Santorini Coastline, Greece
It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve seen Santorini on a postcard or travel brochure; these rugged Cycladic views take on a new meaning when you’re admiring them with someone you love. Dodge the cruise ship crowds and hordes of day trippers to find a secret corner of the island to yourself; might we recommend the hillside balcony and chic interiors of one of our expertly chosen Plum homes? Once you’ve dragged yourself away from the pool, there’s plenty to do on stylish Santorini for couples. The cobbled streets and blue and white buildings of the islands are best explored hand in hand with your partner, to say nothing of the expansive black sand beaches.
If you’re feeling daring, Vlychada beach has a dedicated section for nude sunbathing, and welcomes skinny dippers. For those who prefer to keep their clothes on we’d recommend taking a boat tour, soaking up some culture as well as the sun with a contemporary exhibition at the Santorini Arts Factory. Or walk along the rocky ridges on the edge of the volcano, whose eruptions shaped this wild landscape. And of course, when on one of the best Greek islands for couples, a romantic meal is a must - our choice would always be Bortago, where you’ll dine on freshly caught octopus and sweet wines overlooking the hills and coastline of Santorini.
Slopes Of Aenos, Plum Guide home in Greece
Take a couple's retreat to Crete
A white boat on clear blue water in front of a large rock in Crete, Greece
Whether you’re at the heady start of a fledgling romance or know your partner like the back of your hand, Crete is undoubtedly one of the best Greek islands for couples seeking a bit of time to themselves. As Greece's largest island, there are plenty of things to do in Crete. The dreamy pink sand beach of Elafonisi beckons, or you could spend a whole afternoon tasting local wines at the family-run Douloufakis winery. One attraction you can’t skip on this romantic haven is a visit to the vibrant murals and ruined temples of the magnificent Palace of Knossos. According to myth, this was the home of the Minotaur, and the place where the king’s daughter Ariadne saved her lover Theseus from the maze with a ball of string. It may be a romantic tale, but when it comes to your own accommodation, we’d go for something slightly less dangerous.
Sleepy Jane, Plum Guide home in Crete, Greece
Mix relaxation with romance in Mykonos
A white house with blue windows in Mykonos, Greece
Put aside any preconceptions you might have about Mykonos - there’s much more to this place than just glitzy party spots. This is one of the best Greek islands for couples who want a holiday that’s as much about relaxation as it is romance. We dare you not to return home rejuvenated after a week on the golden sands of Elia Beach. Mykonos, and the Greek islands in general, are known for being very welcoming to LGBTQ travellers, so gay couples will find dedicated gay bars and beaches amongst the island’s attractions. If you or your partner are gourmands, Mykonos is definitely the place for you - the indulgence here isn’t limited to the nightlife. With traditional tavernas and glamorous gourmet restaurants serving up dishes, you’ll reminisce about for years to come. Head to the upscale Spilia for lobster and octopus, or dine on traditional spanakopita at Kiki’s. Our tip? Turn up before midday, when they open, as there’s invariably a crowd of eager diners waiting for a table. Luckily, they provide free wine while you queue as a reward for your patience - as the saying goes, good things come to those who wait.
Aegean Twilight, Plum Guide home in Mykonos, Greece
Enjoy alone time in Kefalonia
A group of colourful houses on a hill across a lake in Kefalonia, Greece
Romance is in the air on Kefalonia; it was the setting of tumultuous love story Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (adapted into a film starring Penélope Cruz). Plus, it has long since been the destination of choice for honeymooners seeking a quieter corner of the Greek isles to eat, drink, and explore to their heart’s content. The turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea lap gently against serene beaches, and the crystal waters of inland lakes such as Melissani Caves offer welcome respite from the heat of the island sun. Sample honey-drenched pastries from Mavroeidis bakery, dine on seafood brought straight from the fishing boats in local taverna Molos, and pair every meal with a glass of Robola, Kefalonia’s traditional white wine.
Ionian Sky, Plum Guide home in Kefalonia, Greece
Swim through the Canal d'Amour in Corfu
A bird's eye view of the Sidari Canal d'Amour Beach, Corfu, Greece
Next on the list, allow us to take your relationship on an immortalising venture. Legend has it that if you and your partner swim through Corfu’s Canal d’Amour, you’re destined to live happily ever after, and who are we to question legend? Make your way through the towering rocks, before stopping off at a nearby cafe for a romantic bite to eat - a sharing plate of spaghetti, perhaps? Once you’ve proven your love, enjoy a wander through Corfu Old Town, admiring the eclectic mix of styles, from Italian to French to British. Channel your inner romantic and catch the sunset, before finding a local bar for a glass of something strong (not too strong though - these are memories you’ll want to retain). You can even spend a romantic day at a donkey rescue sanctuary, watching the furry creatures frolic in the sun. Romantic, we know.
Discover true love in Zakynthos
An aerial view of large cliffs, blue water, and a shipwreck at a beach in Zakynthos, Greece
Similarly to a whole host of the Greek islands, Zakynthos’ main draw is its beaches, but if soaking up the sun on soft golden sand with your partner isn’t the epitome of romance, then we don’t know what is. Set up shop at Kalamaki Beach, or put your feet up at Gerakas Beach as you do nothing but stare out across the Ionian. There’s even a nudist spot here, so if you’re feeling daring, you know what to do. Alternatively, hop aboard a small boat and head over to Marathonisi (also known as Turtle Island), for your necessary fix of exotic wildlife. Spot the turtles swimming around you, before settling down on the small sandy stretch and exploring the coves. A quick snorkelling trip in the shallow waters with your significant other is a brilliant way to make lasting memories, and an underwater camera will go a long way to capturing the moment - one to look back on for years to come.
