Greek island has been voted "the world's most relaxing destination"

Forget Mykonos and Santorini: in 2026, it's the Greek island of Alonissos that will appeal to travelers in search of relaxation, nature and sustainable tourism. With its crystal-clear sea, unspoilt beaches, unique biodiversity and gentle way of life, this jewel in the Sporades steers clear of mass tourism, opting instead for a more authentic, rejuvenating vacation experience.

There's still one corner of Greece that's spared the hordes of selfies, flashy beach clubs and overpriced cocktails. It's called Alonissos, and it's just been crowned one of the world's most relaxing destinations for summer vacations in 2026.

This island in the northern Sporades, still unknown to mass tourism, seduces with its peaceful atmosphere, immaculate beaches, crystal-clear sea and a much more sustainable approach to travel than that of the most famous Greek destinations.

In June, temperatures hover around 25°C: ideal for bathing, without suffering from the stifling heat or overcrowding typical of the Mediterranean high season.

The Greek island where true luxury is silence

According to an analysis carried out by Solmar Villas travel experts on over 160 international destinations, Alonissos is the ideal destination for lovers of disconnection and rejuvenating travel.

And why? Because here, tourism is kept to a minimum, life flows quietly and nature dominates the landscape. No cruise ships, no endless queues, no beaches transformed into open-air discos.

The most isolated island in the Northern Sporades, Alonissos has remained off the beaten track of the major tourist circuits that have overwhelmed places like Mykonos and Santorini. And this is precisely where its strength lies.

Crystal-clear waters and unique Mediterranean biodiversity

One of the island's greatest treasures is the Alonissos National Marine Park, Europe's largest protected marine area. A natural sanctuary covering more than 2,200 square kilometers, it is home to rare and endangered species, including the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), considered critically endangered.

Boat excursions take you to uninhabited islets and spectacular bays, such as Kyra Panagia, a 12th-century monastery set in the heart of the blue Aegean. The waters here are incredibly clear: in places, visibility reaches 50 meters, making the island one of Greece's top destinations for snorkeling and diving.

The underwater museum, one of Greece's most incredible experiences

Among the most surprising attractions is the "Parthenon of shipwrecks", the submerged archaeological site of Peristera, Greece's first underwater museum. Here, divers can observe thousands of ancient amphorae resting at a depth of some 30 meters, in what is considered one of the most important commercial wrecks of antiquity. An experience that perfectly combines archaeology, the sea and environmental preservation.

Wild beaches and nature without concrete

The beaches of Alonissos are a world away from the crowded establishments of many tourist destinations.

Among the most beautiful:

• Agios Dimitrios Beach, famous for its pointed shape and turquoise sea;
• Kokkinokastro, dominated by spectacular red rock cliffs;
• Chrisi Milia Beach, one of the island's few sandy beaches, ideal for families.

The island's interior is criss-crossed by over 40 kilometers of hiking trails winding through pine forests, olive groves and hidden coves.

A more sustainable tourism model

In recent years, Alonissos has focused on ecotourism and reducing its environmental footprint. It was one of the first Greek islands to drastically restrict the use of plastic bags.

Tourism here does not revolve around large hotel complexes, but favors small local structures, family-run tavernas and nature-based activities.

A model that more and more travellers are seeking, especially after years of overtourism that have transformed many Mediterranean destinations into saturated, unpleasant places to live.

How to get to Alonissos

The island has no airport. To get there, you need to take a ferry from Skiathos or the port town of Volos.

From Skiathos, the crossing takes around 2h30, while from Volos, it takes between 3 and 4h30, depending on the connection. Another option: fly to Athens or Thessaloniki, then continue with a domestic flight or ferry.

Greece tops the idleness rankings

According to the Solmar Villas study, Greece will be the best country in 2026 for travellers in search of relaxation. No less than 70% of the ten most relaxing destinations are located on the Greek islands and mainland Greece.

And Alonissos seems to embody this idea of travel to perfection: less consumerism, less hustle and bustle, more nature and time for oneself.