The Six Best Greek Islands to Retire To

What does it really take to retire to a Greek island? Lynn Roulo, who made the move to Athens over a decade ago, shares six islands that don’t just look the part; they work for real life, too.

For many, the idea of retiring to a Greek island evokes images of sun-drenched beaches, whitewashed villages, and long, leisurely lunches by the sea. But as Lynn Roulo, an American author and wellness consultant who moved to Athens over a decade ago, explains, the fantasy of retiring to a Greek island is no longer out of reach.

Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of International Living, agrees. “People dream of retiring to a Greek island for the sunshine and beauty, but what’s remarkable is how realistic that dream actually is today,” she says. “With excellent healthcare, a warm Mediterranean lifestyle, and surprisingly low costs, Greece ticks all the right boxes for a fulfilling European retirement. While many assume island life entails sacrifices, in Greece, you gain more than you lose. From bustling markets and historic towns to efficient healthcare and international airports, many of these islands are better connected and better resourced than people expect.”

According to Roulo and a growing number of international living experts, Greece has quietly become one of Europe's most appealing retirement destinations. With high-quality healthcare, affordable living, and year-round access to natural beauty and cultural depth, Greece offers far more than a postcard-perfect backdrop.

“What’s your favourite Greek island? Which one is best to retire to? These are two of the most common questions I hear."

“What’s your favourite Greek island? Which one is best to retire to?” Roulo says. “These are two of the most common questions I hear, and it’s no surprise. With more than 100 inhabited islands, Greece offers an extraordinary variety of lifestyles, landscapes, and communities.”

She continues: “Islands are a lot like people, each having its own unique character and personality, and some are especially well-suited to expat life and retirement living.”

Here, she shares her top picks for the best Greek islands to retire to, and what makes each one special.

Crete: Big Island, Big Appeal

"With a population of over 600,000, Crete offers the infrastructure of a small country with the soul of an island," Roulo says. As Greece's largest island, Crete delivers a rare combination: sophisticated amenities, modern hospitals, international airports, and a range of housing options alongside ancient ruins, rugged gorges, and more than 150 Blue Flag beaches.

Roulo says Crete tops her list because it combines the best of Greek island living with practical advantages such as high-quality healthcare, reliable access, major universities, and robust infrastructure. Despite its popularity, Crete retains a strong local character and offers year-round livability well beyond the summer tourist season.

She points to Heraklion for its museums and universities, Chania for its Venetian harbour and charming old town, Rethymno for its vibrant cultural scene, and Agios Nikolaos for relaxed coastal living. Whether you're after urban energy, mountain villages, or peaceful seaside retreats, Crete offers it all.

The island also appeals to history enthusiasts, with famous sites such as Knossos, Phaistos, and Gortyna. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate its dramatic gorges, beaches, and snow-capped mountains. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the climate is ideal for an active outdoor lifestyle—hiking, swimming, gardening, or simply relaxing in a coastal café.

Crete's accessibility is a major plus, with two international airports, several ports, and excellent healthcare facilities. The cost of living is lower than in many Western countries, and the growing expat community makes it easy for new residents to settle in. For those who want a fulfilling lifestyle without sacrificing modern conveniences, Roulo says Crete is a "top-tier choice for retirement."

Corfu: Where Italy Meets Greece

"Corfu is a strong contender for retirement, especially for those who enjoy a quiet, peaceful winter and a lively, social summer," Roulo says. With its Italian influences, historic architecture, and bustling capital, Corfu has long been a favourite among British retirees.

Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu has a colourful past and a strong connection to both Greek and Italian cultures. Its cobbled streets and elegant squares reflect the legacy of Venetian, French, and British rule. Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its charm and character, offering everything from boutique shopping to waterfront dining.

With a full-time population of over 100,000 and an international airport (CFU), Corfu remains active year-round. Direct flights from cities such as London, Glasgow, and Manchester make it a convenient option for retirees with ties to the UK.

Roulo highlights the strong English-speaking community, the combination of peaceful winters and lively summers, and the ease of living. "Whether you’re drawn by its cultural richness, natural beauty, or international flair, Corfu offers a dynamic yet relaxed lifestyle that’s ideal for retirement."

Syros: For the Culturally Curious

"Syros stands apart with its refined charm, elegant architecture, and vibrant, year-round atmosphere," says Roulo. As the administrative capital of the Cyclades, Syros has a more polished, continental feel compared to neighbouring islands such as Mykonos and Santorini.

At the heart of Syros is Ermoupoli, a neoclassical town with marble-paved squares, grand mansions, and the iconic Apollo Theatre—a miniature replica of Milan’s La Scala. Unlike more touristy islands, Syros has a strong year-round population and a rich cultural scene. From opera to film festivals, it offers an active arts calendar that keeps the arts scene lively throughout the year.

Roulo notes that Syros is one of the few islands where daily life continues uninterrupted through the winter. Cafes, markets, and tavernas stay open, creating a dependable, connected community that many retirees find appealing. While the island has a small regional airport, it’s also well served by ferries, with travel times from Athens typically between 2.5 and 3.5 hours.

For retirees seeking culture, community, and a slower, more meaningful pace of life, Syros ticks all the boxes.

Naxos: Nature, Food, and Mythology

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, but still manages to fly under the radar compared to its neighbours. "For those seeking an authentic Greek island experience with excellent gastronomy and a varied landscape, Naxos is a solid option," Roulo says.

Known as the cheese capital of Greece, Naxos is home to more than 10,000 cows and produces local specialties such as Graviera and the bold, aged arseniko. Roulo describes the island as grounded in real life—with farming, tradition, and an increasingly connected expat community.

Beyond food, Naxos has plenty to offer nature lovers. It features beaches, mountain villages, and Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. According to Greek mythology, this is where Zeus was raised. Hiking, swimming, and exploring traditional villages are all part of daily life.

With a regional airport offering flights to Athens and several ferry connections, Naxos is accessible yet feels untouched. "It’s not just beautiful," says Roulo, "it’s functional. People actually live and work here year-round."

Rhodes: Sunshine and Medieval Streets

Rhodes combines natural beauty, medieval history, and modern infrastructure—and it boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year. "Rhodes isn’t just about history," Roulo explains. "With over 40 Blue Flag beaches, it’s also ideal for beach lovers."

Rhodes Town features one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centres, with Gothic buildings, castles, and a winding Old Town that transports visitors back in time. Roulo highlights Tsambika Beach for its golden sands and Prasonisi for windsurfing, adding that there are both quiet and lively corners of the island, depending on what lifestyle you’re after.

The island also has a full-service general hospital, an international airport with regular flights to Athens and Europe, and a large permanent population that supports year-round living. "It’s a good fit for people who want sunshine, history, and a high quality of life without giving anything up," she says.

Evia: Island Charm with Mainland Access

Evia, also known as Euboea, is Greece’s second-largest island and one of the most accessible, connected to the mainland by two bridges. Roulo describes it as a rare blend of natural beauty, year-round accessibility, and authentic Greek life without tourist overload.

The island is geographically diverse. Northern Evia is known for its forests and natural hot springs in Aidipsos; the central region features hills, olive groves, and vineyards; and the south offers remote beaches and a slower, more rural way of life.

Evia’s capital, Chalkida, is a functional city with hospitals, restaurants, and shops—perfect for retirees who want amenities without being in a big city. The proximity to Athens makes healthcare access and international travel much easier than on more remote islands.

"It’s perfect for people who want the charm of island life but still need to be near the capital for family, appointments, or travel," Roulo says. "It gives you the best of both worlds."

Greece’s islands are as varied as they are beautiful, offering retirees a spectrum of choices—from Crete’s expansive landscapes to Syros’ cultural heartbeat, and Rhodes' endless sun to Naxos' culinary delights. As Roulo puts it: "While many assume island life must come with sacrifices, in Greece, you gain more than you lose."

For those considering retirement in 2025, the dream of island life in Greece might just be more achievable - and more rewarding - than ever imagined.

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