The Greek government officially opened up to international tourists in spring 2021 in the hope of recouping some of its tourism losses during the pandemic. However, the country also concentrated on a major vaccine roll out, which left Greece’s 6,000-odd islands pretty much COVID-free. Even with the rise of the Delta variant, the following six islands are especially virus-free and looking to tempt visitors this summer.

Visit Greece’s COVID-free islands

In 2019, more than 34 million people visited Greece, which is more than three times the population of the entire country. However, 2020 saw the number drop by 78 percent, due to the COVID-pandemic.

Towards the end of last year, Greece’s government kick-started an ambitious policy, aimed at vaccinating everyone on its islands that have less than 1,000 inhabitants. They dubbed the program “Eleftheria” or “Liberty.” In some cases, the success of the vaccine rollout was only temporary. However, other islands remain COVID-free and are ready to welcome visitors.

Greece’s government has launched a handy interactive map for travelers and locals to keep track of COVID rates across the country. From that map, it is clear that popular hotspots like Mykonos and Rhodes are not an option right now, but some of the lesser-known islands could be your best chance for a relaxing summer getaway. The following six islands are currently COVID-free and waiting for your arrival.

1. Anafi – a well-hidden gem

Anafi is a long way off the beaten track and doesn’t have a developed tourism sector. However, this little-known island is ideal for anyone seeking a rustic, authentic Greek island experience. The only shopping is in the town of Chora, in the form of mini-markets, and the island is short on vehicles. However, this makes Anafi an ideal location for hiking in the beautiful scenery. Another attraction is free camping on the island’s beaches, where the government offers facilities along the shoreline.

2. Peaceful Meganisi

Meganisi is set up as a tourist destination, but is not as overrun and popular as the other Greek Islands. This is the perfect place for those who want to experience island life without being crowded in by other tourists. The island is also ideal for a day-trip, as it is a 30-minute ferry ride from the more popular Greek island of Nydri. What likely sets the island apart from the others is its rocky beaches, which leave its waters almost perfectly clear.

3. Astypalaia ‘Butterfly of the Aegean

Astypalaia is known as the “Butterfly of the Aegean” and offers gorgeous views, delicious cuisine and spiritual history. The town of Hora nestles below a 13th-century castle, perched on a hill, while vineyards and fertile citrus groves cover the rest of the island. The beaches of the island are known to be rustic, but overlook crystal-clear azure waters, while rock climbing is a popular sport on the island. After a busy day, relax in one of Astypalaia’s famous bathhouses.

4. Thymiana – The island of thyme

Thymiana is the second-largest of the Fourni archipelago and is named for the thyme plants that cover its hills. While the island isn’t as lush and green as some of its counterparts, Thymiana does feature a small and beautiful monastery, perched on one of its hills. The island is perfect for a day-trip and is easily accessible by ferry.

5. Karpathos and its ancient acropolis

This lovely island nestles between Crete and Rhodes in the Southern Aegean Sea. While Karpathos tends to be overlooked, its locals are committed to keeping its traditions alive, which can be experienced in its food, music and dancing. One must-visit location is the ruins of the ancient acropolis in the island’s capital city of Pigadia, which is named for the sea god, Poseidon.

6. Kastellorizo (Megisti)

Kastellorizo is officially named Megisti and bears the honor of being the first Greek island to be fully vaccinated. The entire population of the small island was vaccinated by the end of January this year. More than 90 percent of the island’s residents are employed in the tourism industry, meaning Kastellorizo is especially looking forward to meeting you. Viewing the restful image included above, it could be hard to stay away.

As a reminder, Greece is now open to American travelers who are either fully vaccinated, or have a negative test result, taken within 72 hours of entering the country. However, things can change – always check the latest information on the website of the US Embassy in Greece before making your reservations.

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Photo credit: Deposit Photos

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