Best Greek Island for Older Couples

Are you an older couple looking for a memorable getaway to the beautiful Greek islands? Greece offers a plethora of picturesque islands with rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a romantic vacation.

In this article, we will explore the best Greek island options specifically tailored for older couples, taking into consideration factors such as accessibility, relaxation, cultural attractions, activities, and accommodation choices.

Let’s dive in and discover the perfect Greek island for your dream vacation!

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Greek Island for Older Couples

As we age, we have to put up with physical limitations that narrow down our options when it comes to traveling. Such needs differ from one person to another.

This is why you should do your own research and ensure that your chosen holiday spot caters to all of your specific needs.

Some of the key factors old couples might want to consider include:

A. Accessibility and Ease of Travel

Check out this list of Greek islands that have airports. If you want to shorten your travel duration, pick one of them and fly into from Athens.

Should you opt for ferry travel rather than flying, make sure you book a cabin. I made the mistake of traveling by night ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion, Crete, without booking a cabin. Sleeping on a deck chair is next to impossible. I was much younger than today, and still I was exhausted by the time I reached Heraklion.

Unfortunately, flying between islands isn’t possible, as all flights connect through Athens. Nonetheless, you can fly into your Greek island of choice and then use ferries to visit islands in the same group.

The Argo-Saronic islands are as close to Athens as it gets. They are only a short ferry ride away from Piraeus, being therefore very convenient in terms of accessibility and ease of travel. This islands group includes Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Methana, Salamina and Hydra.

Should you choose Aegina, you’ll get a nice bonus, which is Moni Island, a lovely islet only 10 minutes away by water taxi from Aegina Town.

B. Relaxation and Serenity

Why do we travel at older ages on spite of our aches and health issues? Finding serenity is one of the top reasons why elderly couples seek Greek island holidays.

Most islands of Greece have tranquil spots for you to relax and enjoy the sun, the sea and the amazingly tasty Mediterranean foods.

Always check what a specific town or village is well-known for.

If you hate noise and loud people walking into the night, avoid resorts and spots that are famous for parties and nightlife. Pick smaller villages or remote islands where partygoers don’t come.

If, on the other hand, you enjoy going out by night, bar hopping, loud music, dance and a vibrant atmosphere, you may be better off with bigger towns and popular beaches.

C. Cultural and Historical Attractions

The older we get, the more we are attracted to culture and history.

If you enjoy visiting museums, archaeological sites, and cultural venues, you’ll love Greek islands with a rich history such as Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini.

I haven’t visited all Greek islands, as I’d need more than one life to cover all of them. Nonetheless, I found archeology parks, sites and ancient temples pretty much everywhere, on all islands I’ve been fortunate to set foot on.

D. Activities and Excursions

While relaxation is important, it’s also worth considering islands that offer a range of activities and excursions.

Look for destinations that provide opportunities for exploration and adventure, such as hiking trails, boat trips to secluded coves, or wine tours through vineyards. Engaging in these activities together can create lasting memories and add excitement to your vacation.

I’d mention here Crete as one of the best Greek islands for hiking, Santorini as one of the best islands for wine tasting tours, Zakynthos as one of the top islands for stunning beaches and blue caves, and Rhodes as one of the best islands for history and exploration.

E. Accommodation Options

Our standards raise with age. I could not be bothered to sleep in subpar rooms only for the sake of a lower price.Some 30 years ago, I would have slept in a cave, if I could have it for free. Not anymore. At

Look for comfortable and suitable accommodation, such as adult-only resorts or villas.

If needed, consider amenities such as accessible rooms, spa facilities, and private balconies with scenic views.

Self-catering accommodations are always a convenient option. You can have your morning coffee and your breakfast on your balcony, or even make your own salads and light dinners, if so you wish.

I love restaurants and local dishes. I don’t cook on my holidays, but I find self-catering apartments to be a comfortable way to save on my breakfasts away from home. Why pay 8-10 Euros for an omelette, when I can make it in under one minute?

Top 5 Best Greek Islands for Older Couples

1. Crete

Crete is the biggest Greek island. It is so big that you’d need months to properly explore it.

The good thing about this is that you can take 10 trips to Crete and still have new things to see.

Crete is my top choice of island for older couples for the following reasons:

• Plenty of cultural and historical attractions
• Lovely towns with festivals and cultural events
• Weekly markets with local produce
• Beautiful sandy beaches with beachfront promenades
• Great accessibility options in most places on the island
• Easy to reach scenic views spots
• Lots of hikes and walks for all fitness levels

Best Hotels in Crete for Older Couples

Luxury: Cretan Dream Resort & Spa in Stalos, near Chania Town. I stayed in this hotel a few years ago and I loved everything about it.

The beachfront promenade is very long. It stretches from Stalos to Agia Marina and further to Platanias and Gerani. The sandy beach is wide and very nice for long morning walks. Getting into Chania Town requires some means of transportation, either a taxi, a rental car or a bus.

I also think La Mer Resort & Spa Adults Only is a very interesting luxury choice for old couples. This hotel is located in Kavros, in the Georgioupolis area.

Mid-range: Elounda Illion Bungalows. To get to Elounda, you should fly into Heraklion, not Chania.

Budget: Kallitsakis Beach, in the center of Platanias.

2. Rhodes

Rhodes is another Greek island that requires at least two weeks to visit properly. Here are the top reasons why I think Rhodes suits older couples seeking to spend time on some Greek islands:

• Rhodes Old Town is an architectural marvel loaded with history and meaning. Its pedestrian areas are scattered with restaurants and shops. Older travelers can easily find shadow to rest and have a nice refreshment.
• Lovely blue flag beaches with special devices to help people with walking problems get into the sea
• Excellent choice of hotels and apartments
• Plenty of boat trips opportunities
• Awesome beachfront promenade
• Lots of cultural and historical attractions

3. Santorini

Santorini is unique, thanks to its one of a kind scenery featuring whitewashed walls houses, blue church domes and towering cliffs surrounding the Caldera. The cliff-side villages of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli offer panoramic vistas of the volcanic caldera, where you can witness stunning sunsets and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea.

Santorini has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The island is believed to be the site of the ancient city of Atlantis and is associated with the Minoan civilization. The archaeological site of Akrotiri preserves well-preserved ruins of a Bronze Age settlement, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The sheer beauty of these views attracts visitors from all around the world. This makes Santorini one of the most crowded Greek island. If you hate crowds, you’d better be visiting Santorini in April-May or October.

Best Hotels in Santorini for Older Couples

Luxury: West East Suites in Imerovigli. This is the perfect stay for couples, thanks to its romantic setting, with views of the caldera, with private pools and top-notch services. Facilities for guests with disabilities are available. There’s free parking on the spot.

Mid-range: Astro Palace Hotel & Suites in Fira. This is another awesome choice for couples. The hotel has facilities for disabled guests, a hot tub, a sauna and a gym. Some of the rooms feature a private spa and pool. Fira is Santorini’s main town and public buses network hub. If you want to use the buses to travel across the island, Fira is the place to stay.

Budget: Rose Bay Hotel in Kamari or M.G. Studios in Perissa. Both Perissa and Kamari are tranquil beach towns. These two black sand beaches are probably the best one can find in Santorini.

4. Symi

Symi looks so cute that it feels surreal.

Symi’s main harbor, Gialos, is considered one of the most beautiful harbors in Greece. The pastel-colored houses, waterfront tavernas, and traditional fishing boats create a captivating scene. The harbor is nestled amidst hills, which are dotted with houses and crowned by the impressive Panormitis Monastery.

The combination of natural beauty and traditional Greek charm makes the harbor a memorable sight and the whole island best for old couples. Also, the laid back and serene atmosphere caters to travelers seeking to relax and unwind.

Best Hotels in Symi for Old Travelers

Luxury: Villa Calme Sur La Mer is a whole villa rental located right on a beach, in a tranquil neighborhood.

Mid-range: Moschos Mansion, directly on the beachfront but a few minutes away from the bustling harbor of Symi.

Budget: Pedi Beach Hotel – located on the seafront promenade, away from the port.

5. Aegina

Aegina is best for old couples due to its positioning. It is very close to Athens. Ferry services run multiple times a day.

The island itself is small and compact. There’s a good taxi service on the island as well as a network of public buses.

Aegina Town offers a charming setting with its traditional architecture, picturesque harbor, and waterfront promenade.

Couples can leisurely stroll along the seafront, enjoy the views, and savor meals in the waterfront tavernas.

The town’s narrow streets are filled with shops, cafes, and local markets, providing a pleasant environment for exploration and relaxation. I highly recommend the restaurant in Aegina Town’s fish market, as it always has fresh fish at reasonable prices. Ask for the catch of the day. You can thank me later.

Best Hotels in Aegina for Older People

Luxury: Lalibay Resort & Spa near Marathonas. This is a fairly new resort with private beach and all inclusive services.

Mid-range: Danae Hotel, near Aegina Town, a few minutes away from the port. This is where I usually stay when I go to Aegina. I love this hotel because it is nice, clean, fairly priced and close to the taxi station.

Budget: Perdika Mare Guesthouse in the charming port of Perdika. If you choose to stay in Perdika, you’ll be only 10 minutes away by water taxi from the most beautiful tiny island in the area, Moni island.

Are There Any Other Greek Islands Suitable for Old Couples?

The list above is a representation of my own views and preferences. I’m in my mid-fifties. I’ve visited a good share of Greek islands, but there are many still on my bucket list.

I’d say that all islands suit all kinds of travelers. For best experiences, you should take time to research the different cities, towns and villages on each island, in order to find the ones that suit your taste.

There’s something in each Greek island for everybody, whether old or young, whether solo traveler or couple. Research is key to happiness when it comes to making the right choice for a Greek holiday.