May and summer holidays are approaching fast! Greece prioritizes the safety of locals and visitors with health protocols in place, plus lesser-known islands to avoid crowds. Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the country's green initiatives, like banning plastic straws on Paros and going fully electric on Astypalaia. Opt for a safe, sustainable Greek getaway!
Smart Hotels
Smart hotels across Greece maximize energy efficiency. Key cards automatically shut off heating, air conditioning, and appliances when you leave your room. Housekeeping uses eco-friendly products, and breakfasts feature local delights like Greek yogurt, honey, bougatsa, feta, fresh bread, and aromatic Greek iced coffee.
Agro Hotels in Corfu
Greece's agro hotels, like family-run guesthouses, offer authentic farm stays. Guests join in olive picking, oil pressing, and more. In North Corfu, Arrogia Farm spans 15 hectares of fruit trees, vineyards, olives, and an organic garden. Stay in one of three cottages and help produce local cheese, olive oil, or wine.
Astypalaia: All-Electric Transport Mission
This stunning whitewashed Dodecanese island features Chora's hilltop Venetian castle with panoramic Aegean views. Reach it by plane from Athens or ferry from Kos. Since early 2021, Astypalaia partners with Volkswagen to electrify all 1,500 vehicles, plus scooters, bikes, and shuttles—powered by new wind and solar installations.
Crete: TUI Supports Organic Olive Farmers
Beyond Balos Beach and Knossos, Crete boasts vineyards and premier extra virgin olive oil. TUI Care Foundation aids small organic farmers against big competitors, promoting their oil in restaurants and offering immersive farm excursions for visitors.
Paros: First Mediterranean Island to Go Plastic-Free
Paros, with its iconic white houses and blue domes, aims for zero plastic waste in three years—no straws in your frappé! Drinking fountains and reusable bags from recycled hotel linens support beach picnics with fresh Greek produce.
Lipsi: Plastic-Free and Sailing Haven
This 10 km² Dodecanese gem preserves authentic nature with small-scale stays and pristine beaches. Easily accessible from Kos sailing hub. Disposable plastics are out, preserving its timeless charm.
Skyros Port Project
Near Evia (1.5 hours from Kimi), Skyros blends northern green plains and beaches with southern mountains and serene bays. Its annual Summer Academy since 2015 educates international students on sustainable living via workshops and competitions. In 2019, Skyros Port earned the first Blue Flag for ports.
Kalymnos: Sustainable Food Traditions
Greece's centuries-old farm-to-table culture earned Lonely Planet's nod as the world's most sustainable food destination. Eat seasonally with locals. Kalymnos (35 minutes by boat from Kos), the sponge-diving island, offers fresh seafood, diving, and an October climbing festival.
P.S. Greece plans to welcome travelers from May 14.
