Greece has secured a prominent spot in The Telegraph’s roundup of the 40 best beaches in Europe, with five Greek coastlines making the prestigious list curated by the British newspaper’s travel experts. The selection spans the continent, featuring standout shores from countries like Spain, France, Portugal, and Italy—nations that dominate the European beach scene.
Among the Greek entries, Fteri Beach on the Ionian island of Kefalonia is highlighted for its crystal-clear, shallow, and tranquil waters, paired with dazzling white sand. Accessible only by foot or sea taxi, Fteri offers a more secluded escape compared to other, more popular beaches on the island.
In southern Crete, the golden sands of Xerokambos earned a mention for their mirror-like waters and untouched beauty. The paper notes that its remote charm is preserved thanks to a winding seven-hour journey required to reach the southeastern tip of the island—making it a hidden gem far from the crowds.
For a truly isolated experience, Saria island near Karpathos stands out. This tiny, uninhabited islet, once home to medieval pirates, now offers an otherworldly snorkeling haven. The main beach, lined with soft, pale sand, leads into such clear waters that starfish can be seen crawling along the seabed.
Further east, the aptly named Seychelles Beach on Ikaria, in the northern Aegean, dazzles with its blond sand and turquoise waters reminiscent of the Indian Ocean. It’s a striking natural wonder that lives up to its exotic name.
Rounding out the Greek selections is Voidokilia Beach in Messinia. Framed by a crescent-shaped bay and honey-colored sand, it’s one of the mainland’s most visually arresting coastlines. Nature lovers flock here not only for the beauty but also for the neighboring Gialova Lagoon, a haven for migratory birds.
