7 of the best Greek islands for partying

Not only do they have breathtaking beaches, stunning scenery and bucket loads of ancient history, the islands off mainland Greece have a buzzing nightlife that’ll rival the likes of Ibiza and Palma. Leave Athens behind and set sail for blindingly white sand, some of the world’s best DJs and clubs that never close. Party in picturesque villages, soak up the sun and spend the summer hopping from island to island chasing the some of the best clubs in the world. Here’s our roundup of the best Greek islands for partying. 

One of Greece’s most popular islands, Corfu boasts long stretches of spellbinding coastline and nightlife venues that’ll have you dancing on tables the minute you waltz through the door. Start your night in the historic Old Town with a chilled cocktail in chic surroundings. Make your next moves at the beach club, Pazuzu. Just a few steps away from the crystal clear waters of the Ionian sea, the stylish venue is constantly churning out fantastic parties to the beats of world famous DJs all summer long. Dance the night away against the backdrop of jaw-dropping sunsets and one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful landscapes. 

You can’t possibly list the best islands for partying in Greece without making some reference to the Mykonos. Often referred to as the Ibiza of Greece, the cosmopolitan island in the Cyclades is filled with bars and clubs for you to let your hair down, no matter the day of the week. Brush shoulders with celebrities as you party like there’s no tomorrow and sip on frozen margaritas as you watch the idyllic shores turn from day to night. Make sure to pay a visit to Paradise beach and Caro Paradiso some of the most famous locations on the island, for a night you might forget but wish you hadn’t! 

In between the two villages of Naoussa and Parikia, an abundance of vibrant bars and nightclubs are on hand to offer you endless hours of fun. Home to Pounda Beach, the island is teeming with university students during the hotter months and is the destination for young people looking to party the summer away. Assessible from Athens in three hours by ferry, Paros is bursting with great clubs such as Galea and Saloon Door – you’ll be spoilt for choice no matter your music preferences! 

Dance from dusk till dawn at one of Ios’ wild beach parties this summer. During peak season, Chora’s beaches and clubs are choc-a-block 24 hours a day as parties rage from every corner of the town. For the best beach party, head to Mylopotas resort where there’s non-stop music and dancing around the clock. Full to the brim with crazy, carefree bars and clubs blasting all kinds of music, you’re guaranteed a night to remember on Ios. The Cycladic island is nestled in between Naxos and Santorini and is without a doubt one of the best islands for partying in Greece. 

Another student favourite, Zakynthos and its coastline has something for everyone. For an evening of classy cocktails in historical surroundings, head to one of Zante’s many bars and relax in the night-time heat. When you’re ready to up the ante, hit the coastal towns of Tsilivi and Laganas where you can dance till your feet fall off at one of the clubs lining the ocean. The Ionian island with its stunning beaches is an important nightlife hub in the Mediterranean that is visited by enthusiastic partygoers all summer long. 

Part of the Dodecanese island group, Kos continues to churn out incredible parties, beach raves and DJ nights one summer after the next. With its wide selection of clubs and bars packed into two streets in the heart of the city, you can’t fail but find somewhere new to spend each evening of your holiday. Outside the main town, Kardamena also knows how to throw a worthwhile party. With a few more clubs scattered throughout Tigahi and Agios Stefanos, it’s safe to say the island has got it covered when it comes to entertaining its visitors. 

The busiest island of the Sporades is full of charming features but during the summer months it’s all about what happens when the sun goes down. Split into two main areas, the nightlife is shared between Bar Street on the eastern side of the harbour and Papadiamantis Street with a few venues spilling over into the Old Town’s Trion Square. Embrace the laid back attitude of the local Grecians and take the night slowly as most of the clubs don’t open their doors until midnight. Get your glad rags on, hit the town and before you know it you’ll be watching the sun as it rises over the ocean.

Heading to Greece soon? Tag us in your photos of the best islands for partying in Greece using the hashtag #ryanairstories for the chance to be featured on Ryanair’s social media channels.

Flights to Athens

- Lucy Norris