After an already long summer of travel, we made our way to Zakinthos, an island we didn’t know much about, except that a friend had arranged for us to join him there for his birthday. The island has a reputation as a hotspot for partygoers, especially Brits, with Laganas being a focal point for the nightlife scene. While the bars and clubs come alive after dark, we found ourselves more drawn to a different side of the island—one filled with stunning natural beauty and tranquility.

We stayed in a cozy villa in Laganas, a convenient base for exploring. To get around, we rented a quad bike, a decision that made every journey feel like an adventure. It quickly became our preferred mode of transportation as we explored the winding roads and hidden corners of Zakinthos.

Discovering Limnionas: A Hidden Gem

On a recommendation from our villa host, we set off to find Limnionas, located on the western side of the island. The drive itself was picturesque, taking us through quaint villages and offering a glimpse of local life. But nothing could have prepared us for the beauty that awaited us at Limnionas. Nestled between towering cliffs, this secluded spot was a snorkeler’s paradise. We spent the afternoon swimming in its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic rock formations and the serenity of nature. A few charming cliffside tavernas provided the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch with spectacular views.

A Visit to Cameo Island

Cameo Island is another must-see in Zakinthos. Its iconic wooden bridge and panoramic views make it a photographer’s dream. We spent a couple of hours here, soaking in the beauty of the place and enjoying a quick dip in the inviting waters. The island’s charm lies in its small size and relaxed vibe, making it the ideal spot to unwind for a while.

Exploring By Sea: Spotting Sea Turtles And Stunning Coastlines

Leaving Cameo Island, we decided to hire a speedboat to explore more of Zakinthos from the water. For what we considered a reasonable price, we were able to circumnavigate the island, discovering hidden coves and stunning beaches along the way. One of the highlights was spotting a sea turtle gliding gracefully through the turquoise waters—a magical encounter that added to the allure of our island adventure.

Shipwreck Bay: A Bucket-List Destination

No trip to Zakinthos would be complete without visiting the famed Shipwreck Bay. We booked a tour from Laganas, which took us to this world-renowned beach. The sight of the rusted shipwreck accompanied with the pristine aqua-blue waters is truly surreal.

Santorini is perhaps the most famous Greek island, known for its stunning volcanic landscape, dramatic sunsets, and jaw-dropping views. It’s a fantastic place to explore, offering a mix of history, vibrant local culture, and scenic beauty. The town of Thira is perfect for wandering, with its charming alleyways and diverse selection of shops to browse.

Although Santorini is more expensive compared to other Greek islands, the experience justifies the cost. For a sunset dinner with a view, we found Fanari Restaurant to be reasonably priced compared to its neighbours, and the food and setting made it a worthwhile splurge. We found throughout Greece we were mainly fuelling ourselves with Gyros for about 5-6Euros. Definitely a great way to save money plus they were delicious.

One of our favourite experiences was a day trip to one of the nearby volcanic islands. We joined a boat tour that took us to the volcano for a short hike and breathtaking panoramic views. Afterward, the tour stopped at a neighbouring island for lunch and a refreshing swim. Ending the day, we enjoyed some time on the water—a popular activity for travellers here.

Another highlight was exploring the other side of the island on a quad bike. We ventured to the famous Red Beach and other hidden spots, enjoying the freedom to see the island at our own pace. Later, we ended the day in Perissa, soaking up the beach vibes with a relaxed drink as the sun dipped lower, giving us a different perspective of Santorini’s beauty.

We reached Milos by ferry from Santorini, and this island quickly became one of the most memorable parts of our trip. Milos has a more laid-back charm, perfect for slowing down and really soaking in the Greek island atmosphere.

If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend renting a car or quad bike to fully explore the island. Between our group, we had both, but as a big fan of quad biking around Greece, I can’t recommend it enough for the sense of adventure and freedom it offers.

Our first day of exploring started with a morning swim at Klima, a picturesque seaside village with colorful fishermen’s houses. From there, we continued along the coast to Fyropotamos Beach, where we enjoyed some time relaxing and taking in the serene surroundings. Afterward, we stopped at Mandrakia Beach—a stunning spot where we spent hours swimming and snorkeling. The marine life was abundant, and there were a couple of small restaurants nearby, making it a perfect lunch break.

One of the highlights of our time in Milos was a full-day boat cruise along the island’s western coast. The tour took us to the unmissable Kleftiko, known for its dramatic rock formations and some of the bluest waters we’ve ever seen. We spent time snorkeling through underwater caves and marveling at the vibrant sea life. This was a bucket-list experience that we highly recommend.

Milos stole our hearts, and we’d love to return one day. For those planning to visit, prepare to be captivated by this gem of an island!