ITOP Member
The South Aegean is the largest island region in Greece and Europe, bringing together the Cyclades and the Dodecanese — 50 inhabited islands within a wider archipelago of 669 islands and islets. With around 7 million tourists per year, five international airports and 119 seaports, the region offers an exceptional diversity of island experiences, from cosmopolitan destinations and luxury island hopping to rich history, culture, local gastronomy, spectacular landscapes and crystal-clear seas.
The region combines traditional and cosmopolitan travel experiences, supported by exceptional hospitality and award-winning local gastronomy
Region of South Aegean
327,820 (2021 Census)
Ermoupoli, Syros
Cyclades & Dodecanese
669
50
32 islands
18 islands
5
119
20% share in Greece*
Approx. 7 million*
Mediterranean
Euro (EUR)
Greek; English widely used in tourism
Tourism, supported by gastronomy, culture and island-based local economies
Valley of Butterflies, Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest island of the South Aegean and a crossroads of civilizations. At the meeting point of Europe, Asia and Africa, its rich multicultural heritage is reflected in its landscapes, architecture, traditions and way of life.
At the heart of the island lies its magnificent medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while ancient sites such as Kamiros and the Acropolis of Lindos reveal the depth of its history. From the Valley of the Butterflies to secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters, Rhodes offers an exceptional combination of culture, nature and the sea.
A leading destination for cruising, luxury travel, yachting and island-hopping, Rhodes brings together centuries of history with a vibrant contemporary identity.
The Colossus may no longer stand at the entrance to its harbour, but the spirit of the ancient world remains deeply woven into the island.
Photo: Little Venice, Mykonos
Since the ‘60s Mykonos has been a symbol of cosmopolitan and luxurious vacations and it is one of the most world-renowned Greek travel destinations. It is also famous for being a gay friendly destination.
Hundreds of celebrities, members of the international jet set, artists, intellectuals, tycoons, ship owners and politicians have all strolled through the alleys of Chora partying till the break of dawn or they have moored their yachts in the island’s bays with the exquisite crystal clear waters, experiencing unforgettable moments.
Kefalos, Kos
The fact that Kos is among the first ranks of the most popular Greek vacation destinations is not a matter of chance. Its antiquities, its monuments and medieval castles alone are enough to place the island among the top spots of that list. Beaches with cosmopolitan flair, green valleys with hot springs and its traditional inland settlements are also among the main tourist attractions of the island. The high-end tourism infrastructure of its seaside resorts, the vivid nightlife, the centuries-old spirit of hospitality of its residents and the many surprises waiting those who really want to get to know the place where Hippocrates-founder of the medical sciences and the most famous physician of antiquity- came from are among the many other things the island has to offer.
Caldera, Santorini
Santorini is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece that has gained international recognition while being the most beautiful and romantic place to visit. What Santorini brings to every visitor’s mind is the myth of the lost city of Atlantis, its Volcanoes, the famous Caldera and the stunning sunset of Oia town. Santorini is also well-known for the whitewashed houses of traditional Cycladic architecture, the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri as well as Ancient Thera. It is also famous for the exceptional wines produced in the vineyards of volcanic land, its local products, its exceptional standards of hospitality
Fishing village, Milos
Milos stands out for its volcanic coastline, exotic beaches and turquoise lagoons. The island also offers luxury yachting and boutique accommodation, combining dramatic natural scenery with a refined island experience. Εmerald waters, sea caves, rocky islets, lace-like bays and little harbours frozen in time. Otherworldly landscapes, from the lunar beauty of Sarakiniko to colourful fishing villages. A beauty that even the eye and the camera struggle to capture.
Climbing at Kalymnos rocks
Kalymnos is an island shaped by the sea and the rock. A rugged Aegean landscape, a centuries-old sponge-diving tradition and a strong maritime identity come together with some of Europe’s most spectacular rock-climbing routes.
From scuba diving and exploring the underwater world to climbing its limestone cliffs, Kalymnos invites visitors to experience the island through adventure, nature and authentic island life. Its rocky bays, beautiful beaches, traditional villages and distinctive local cuisine complete an experience that is unmistakably Kalymnian.
A proud, resilient and hospitable island, where the sea and the rock have shaped not only the landscape, but also its people and way of life.
