The Guardian hosts an in-depth feature on 10 Greek destinations that are uncrowded but with the country's beauty untouched by over-tourism.
Along with his suggestions, he mentions some characteristic features of each place and suggestions on where to stay and where to go for food.
Andros
Two hours from the port of Rafina, near Athens, is the northernmost tip of the Cyclades and a favourite island chosen by Greeks for their holidays because of its quietness, food, beaches and beautiful villages.
Euboea
The second largest island of Greece, the Euboea often overlooked in comparison to other more glamorous destinations. But this gem, practically next door to Athens, is worth exploring for the variety it offers: some places are like a Switzerland by the sea; others like the Caribbean. It's a two-hour drive from Athens or an hour by ferry from the port of Rafina. You will find wonderful beaches both in the north and in the south of the island.
Galaxidi
With a long history, this beautiful little town in the Gulf of Corinth under the Delphi, is a real gem.
Just three hours west of Athens, the elegant neoclassical resort, with a beautiful coastline surrounding it, has the air of a Greek island. It was one of the country's richest ports in its 19th century heyday. It is authentically Greek and popular with sailors, without much tourism.
Folegandros
With only 765 inhabitants and images that remind us of Santorini, the Folegandros offers the opportunity of relaxing and enjoying the quiet island life. The medieval Chora, the main town, is perched high on a cliff, with magnificent scenery and cobbled streets. The ferry from Piraeus takes about seven hours, but good things come to those who are patient.
Leros
One of the islands of Dodecanese Islands, in the south Aegean Sea and close to the Turkish coast, it is a tranquil oasis, eight hours by boat from Athens (although there are shorter routes from islands such as Rhodes and the Kos).
It is said to be the favorite island of goddess Artemis, is lush and hilly with many beautiful pebbled bays and has a colourful history.
Kythera
Birthplace of Aphrodite, this island in the south of Peloponnese, honors the name of the goddess. Waterfalls, gorges, medieval fortress, beaches - it has it all. And because getting there feels like travelling to the end of the Earth - it also offers a sense of adventure. You can fly from Athens in 45 minutes, but if you decide to go by road four hours by car from Athens and a short ferry ride from Athens and a short ferry ride from Neapolis.
Astypalea
Η Astypalea is the kind of island that those who know it are enchanted. It is also unfortunately quite far away. The ferries sail three times a week from Piraeus and they make nine hours. The whitewashed villages are also reminiscent of Santorini, the beaches are pristine and wild - and the hospitality is generous and authentic.
Syros
If you want more than food, beach, sleep, you should visit Syros. With a year-round population, non-tourist shops and a vibrant cultural life, it creates a fascinating picture of the local lifestyle, with all the quaint villages you would expect from a Greek island.
Pelion
Ideal for both winter and summer holidays, the Pelion is a four-hour drive from Athens. It is a destination that operates all year round and offers mountain activities as well as seaside attractions. It was used as a location in the first Mamma Mia! It rains from the Aegean Sea, to the west is the Pagasitikos Gulf, greenery and wonderful picturesque villages prevail.
Mani
At the southern end of the Peloponnese, with a wild beauty that sometimes reminds one of the Tuscany. The medieval fortresses and the villages with the stone houses, create an impressive landscape.
