Last Updated on December 30, 2023
Greece is one of the world’s most welcoming countries to the LGBTQ+ community, slowly evolving into a country of openness and inclusion. As one of the world’s top tourist destinations, tourism has played a role in changing the country’s attitudes towards LGBTQ+ and fostering acceptance. And the best part about traveling to Greece is you’ll have endless choices for the best place to visit.
From partying in the top nightclubs of Mykonos to strolling hand in hand through Santorini, here are the best destinations for LGBTQ+ getaways in Greece.
Mykonos
It’s easy to see why Mykonos deserves to be on the top spot of the list of destinations for LGBTQ+ getaways in Greece. The picturesque island is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, home to fantastic bars and nightclubs. These places offer the perfect spot to party and meet fellow LGBTQ+ travellers.
Aside from its nightlife scene, Mykonos is home to beautiful beaches to swim and relax. Some of the secluded beaches cater to nudists and have become a favourite hangout spot for gay travelers. In addition, many restaurants, hotels, and other establishments on the island are welcoming to the gay community. And because the island is used to the presence of LGBTQ+ couples, PDAs won’t be frowned upon.
The best part about traveling to Mykonos is you’ll have endless things to do on your vacation. While you’ll most likely spend the night partying, there are plenty of things to do during the day. Aside from hanging out at the beach, you can stroll through Mykonos Town, visit the iconic Mykonos Windmills, hang out in Little Venice, go on an ATV adventure, and more! Whatever you wish to do on your holiday, you’ll find it in Mykonos.
Crete
Crete is an excellent destination for incredible luxury gay travel breaks. Even if it’s not as well-known in the gay community as Mykonos, it’s well worth a visit for LGBTQ+ travelers. It’s the largest among the Greek islands, offering everything you could wish for in a Greek holiday, from gorgeous beaches to fascinating archaeological sites, sumptuous food, and impressive natural landscapes.
Since Crete is a vast island, consider renting a car to see as many things as possible. Aside from enjoying a road trip, having a car makes it easier to access secluded beaches, where you can hang out with fellow LGBTQ+ travelers. One of Crete’s most scenic roads is from Chania to Sitia. Both towns sit on either side of the island’s north coast and are a joy to explore, with their beautiful cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses.
LGBTQ+ travelers fond of outdoor adventures should consider a hike through Samaria Gorge, a vast national park featuring a dramatic hiking trail of about 16 kilometers. Aside from the stunning coastal views, your hike will take you through places with historical significance and lush forests home to fascinating wildlife. 
Rhodes
Rhodes may not always come up on the list of LGBTQ+ destinations in Greece, but it welcomes all travellers with open arms, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. The laidback island is known for its friendly and tranquil atmosphere, best suited for those looking to escape the tourist crowds and prefer a relaxing getaway in Greece. Unlike the other famous Greek islands, Rhodes rarely gets crowded.
Rhodes Town makes an excellent base for your holiday, as it’s home to some of the island’s top accommodations. In addition, it’s a charming place to explore around on foot, separated into two parts, the New Town and Old Town. As the name suggests, the Old Town is home to historic and ancient sites, while the New Town is where you’ll find modern hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Rhodes is world-renowned for its fantastic beaches, making it a top destination for a beach holiday in Greece. Expect to spend most of your time on the beaches, known for their pristine waters, soft white sands, and stunning views. Check out St. Paul’s Bay, home to two beaches and a beautiful ancient village. The picturesque bay has sun loungers and other amenities, making it a popular spot to swim and relax.
Santorini
Like Mykonos, Santorini is a favourite island among LGBTQ+ travellers heading to Greece. As the most popular among Greek islands, Santorini delights visitors with its picturesque whitewashed villages, beautiful beaches, volcanic landscape, and excellent restaurants and bars perched on a cliff. In addition, you will find some of the most opulent villa rentals in Greece can be found in Santorini, perfect for gay travellers seeking luxury and comfort on their Greek holiday.
LGBTQ+ couples will find plenty of romantic things to enjoy in Santorini. For one, it has some of the most breathtaking sunset views, which you can marvel at with your loved one beside. The best places to see the famous Santorini sunsets are in the villages of Oia and Fira and on the rooftop bars and restaurants dotting the island.
If you’re into food and wine, Santorini is your paradise. The island has some of the country’s best restaurants featuring classic Greek dishes like souvlaki and moussaka. In addition, Santorini’s volcanic soil produces some of the most delectable wines. Therefore, expect to indulge in mouth-watering wine in your every meal.
Naxos
Naxos is among those Greek islands tolerant and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. It has plenty of gay-friendly hotels, restaurants, and bars, allowing you to enjoy your holiday in Greece without fear of being judged. While there are not any exclusive gay beaches, you will find a few nudist-friendly beaches with a mixed crowd. The vibe here is much more laid-back than in Mykonos for example, so if you’re looking more for relaxation and less for a party holiday, then Naxos is one of the best Greek islands to visit.
Naxos is home to gorgeous beaches, such as the Agios Georgios beach, which boasts calm waters and endless golden sands, perfect for relaxing all day.
Like many Greek islands, Naxos also has its share of archaeological sites. If you want to go sightseeing, some of the best places to see are the Temple of Apollo and the Archaeological Museum in Naxos Town. While in Naxos Town, stroll through its winding cobblestone streets, where you’ll find well-preserved ancient buildings.
