Sun, sea and sand are 3 words that come to mind when thinking of the Greek Islands. But if that’s not enough to make you book a flight, add stunning architecture and pristine beaches to that list and you’ll have an idea of why these islands are some of the most photogenic in the world.
From the bright blue waters to the towering cliffs, there is no shortage of beautiful scenery. With so many islands to choose from, there is always something new to explore. Whether you’re photographing the sunset from Santorini or exploring the winding streets of Mykonos, the Greek Islands offer an endless supply of photographic opportunities. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding amateur, get your camera ready.
Naxos
Naxos, in my opinion is an underrated island. It has a stunning landscape, with towering mountains, lush green valleys, and pristine beaches. It also has a rich history, dating back to ancient times, and is shrouded in myth and mystery.
Legend has it that Zeus, king of the gods, grew up here, and it’s also rumoured that Theseus brought Ariadne to Naxos after killing the Minotaur. It’s easy to use these stories as inspiration for your photos, and there are plenty of temple ruins around to provide a backdrop.
Modern day Naxos has a fascinating culture, with lively festivals taking place throughout the year, that are bright with colour and local tradition. All of these factors come together to create an island that is truly unique and photogenic. So if you’re looking for a place to take some amazing photos, be sure to add Naxos to your list!
Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek islands, and it’s easy to see why. The island is home to stunning beaches, quaint villages, and picturesque windmills. These recognisable structures were first built by the Venetians, but construction continued many years later as they helped the islanders harvest the wind and harvest crops that could be traded. Now, they are not operational, but they continue to be a symbol of Mykonos and a key attraction, with some being turned into museums.
Mykonos is also known for its perfect weather conditions. The island enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a photographer’s paradise. Even the most amateur photographer can’t help but snap away at the amazing scenery here. With its beautiful setting and great weather, it’s no wonder Mykonos remains popular year-round.
Santorini
Santorini has been featuring on the bucket lists of travellers and honeymooners the world over for many years.. The island is home to stunning white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and incredibly photogenic sunsets. The famous spot to watch the light hit the water is Oia, particularly Oia Castle, but you can get an equally good view across the island, and without the crowds.
In addition, Santorini’s volcanic caldera is a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and taking in the incredible views – it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. The caldera offers stunning views of the surrounding islands as well as views over the Aegean Sea. Visitors can take a cable car up to the top of the caldera, or hike up the winding path that leads to the summit. There are also several boat tours available that allow visitors to explore the caldera from the water. Regardless of how you choose to experience it, a visit to the Santorini caldera is sure to provide you with some unforgettable photos.
With its dramatic cliffs and whitewashed villages, Santorini is probably the most photographed island in Greece. But this also makes it one of the busiest, so if you’re looking for peace and quiet, head to one of the other smaller islands nearby, or consider travelling during the off season.
Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at one of the many vineyards or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the winding streets, it’s easy to see why the Greek Islands are the perfect place for a photographic holiday. Take inspiration from the many famous films that have been shot here, and create your own perfect moment to capture forever.
