Nothing ruins the fun of a relaxing island getaway more than a crowded beach. Thankfully, Europe is full of enchanting islands tucked away from the tourist trail where you can enjoy a luxurious stretch of paradise to yourself.
From a tiny Greek isle to a hideaway in France, we’ve uncovered remote islands not (yet) overtaken by hordes of tourists. So if you don’t fancy sharing a patch of sand with thousands of other vacation-goers, put these absolutely stunning destinations on your travel wish list.
Stay flexible by using KAYAK to find flight tickets that you can change without fees and stays that have free cancellation. To make it even easier, we’ve included these filters in all of the flight and stay searches below. You can also keep up to date on the latest travel restrictions on our dedicated page.
Agistri, Greece
A hidden gem in Greece, Agistri holds its own against the likes of Santorini with its azure waters and secluded setting. A one-hour ferry ride from Athens, it’s a favourite with locals who want to get away from it all. You can enjoy spectacular ocean views from atop the cliffs at Chalikiada Beach, then trek down the nature path to the soft sandy shoreline. Cool off in the natural pool at Aponisos beach or head to Skala and Dragonera beaches and discover secluded swimming spots. Hire a bike and explore the island’s quiet coves and picture-perfect coastline on two wheels.
Vis, Croatia
Known for its 17th-century architecture and excellent seafood restaurants, Vis is a quiet island away from the crowds in nearby Hvar. It’s one of the most remote island getaways in Croatia, accessible via a 2.5-hour ferry ride from Split. Head straight for the coast and find your fjaka while floating in the inviting emerald waters, which is a Croatian state of being that amounts to the art of doing nothing. Bask in the sunshine at Srebrna and Stončica, two of the island’s most attractive beaches, then visit St. Nicholas Monastery for incredible views over the bay.
Formentera, Spain
Worlds away from the wild parties on the neighbouring island of Ibiza, Formentera offers complete island bliss with its white-sand beaches and turquoise-blue waters. It’s the smallest (and prettiest) of the Balearic Islands and has somehow managed to stay under the tourist radar. You can tailor your adventures to your travel style, whether you prefer beach hopping to secluded shorelines or staying active with an afternoon of windsurfing. Explore the island’s secret pockets of sand on a bike or scooter, then dine at an oceanfront café or visit Cap de Barbaria lighthouse for panoramic sunset views.
Île de Porquerolles, France
While the French Riviera typically conjures up images of glitz and glam, Île de Porquerolles offers a little corner of paradise for nature lovers. One of four islands in Iles d’Hyeres, Île de Porquerolles is one of France’s best-kept secrets, with most of the island a designated national park. The seven-kilometre long island is beloved for its beautiful (and often empty) beaches, while it also boasts impossibly clear bays for snorkelling and locally-run vineyards for wine tasting. Just 20 minutes by ferry from Hyeres, the car-free island is a tranquil escape from the Saint-Tropez crowds.
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São Jorge, Azores
For a mix of outdoor adventure and remote island scenery, pack your bags and escape to São Jorge. This tiny island in the Azores is one of the most photogenic islands in Europe, home to landscapes of cascading waterfalls, lush lagoons and rugged mountains. If you’re looking for thrills, São Jorge has got you covered with a long list of adrenaline-pumping activities – from hiking the 1,053-metre high Pico da Esperança mountain to surfing the waves at Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. For a birds-eye view of the island, plan a scenic drive along the windy coastal roads.
