‘I’m Greek and there are two islands I’d avoid like the plague – where to go instead’

A Greek resident has shared their opinion on the best and worst islands to visit in Greece – and two popular destinations are on the avoid list – as well as one to visit instead

Greece, with its array of enchanting isles, stands as a summer hot spot for troves of Europe-bound travellers.

Though the nation boasts around 6,000 islands, only 227 play host to residents, and each island distinctly echoes its own ambiance.

Despite this allure, a Greek local has sounded the alarm for tourists, urging them to give certain islands a wide berth. Taking to Reddit, ‘posh_raccoon’ didn’t mince words: “I was born and raised in Greece. Avoid Mykonos, Santorini and other touristy places.”

They highlight the temptation to capture idyllic sunsets in Santorini or gaze upon its famed hilltop homes but question the hefty price tag attached to such experiences: “Yes, you want to take pictures of the beautiful sunset in Santorini and look at those picturesque houses on the hill – but do you really want to spend a lot of money on that?”

The native’s dissatisfaction stems from exorbitant costs which have led many Greeks to label these spots as mere ‘tourist traps’. They assert: “And, I mean a lot of money. We Greeks avoid those places for their insane prices, generally referring to them as tourist traps.”

Pleading with potential visitors, they suggest steering clear of these islands, likening it to avoiding the plague, reports reports the Express. Their advice comes backed by personal viewpoint: “There’s so many different islands in Greece you can visit. I suggest avoiding these two like the plague.”

This stark warning considers the inflated prices for everyday items and posits such destinations as fitting for perhaps only a fleeting three-day visit. “These places are very, very expensive in their prices for basic commodities and best suited for a three day stay max in my opinion.”

Mykonos and Santorini, though loved by travellers, do indeed rank as some of Greece’s priciest islands, a status bolstered by their popularity. These islands see throngs of excitement, particularly in summer, even attracting cruise passengers by day.

While advocating for the historical splendours of Athens, the Reddit user also advises against devoting your entire holiday to the city’s confines.

One seasoned traveller strongly advised: “Seriously, don’t visit Greece and spend your entire stay in Athens. Take a bus and go on a trip, or a car or ferry and island hop nearby.”