LifestyleBest European islands: Korčula, Skiathos top lonely planet's list

Best European islands: Korčula, Skiathos top lonely planet's list

A bird's-eye view of the city of Korčula

Images source: © Adobe Stock

17 June 2024 19:27

Lonely Planet, the iconic travel publisher that celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, regularly publishes rankings of places worth visiting. Just before the vacation season, they compiled a list of the best islands in Europe.

According to the authors of the list 12 most beautiful islands of the Old Continent, Europe's greatest strength is its stunning diversity of landscapes.

Whether a paradise island means rocky cliffs with white buildings, lush green corners with extraordinary vegetation, or places where you can admire the northern lights - you will find it all in Europe.

Lonely Planet - the best islands in Europe

Number one in the ranking is Croatia's Korčula, the greenest of the Dalmatian islands. "It lies just 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the mainland, so in summer it is quite crowded, but off-season it is an extraordinary place. Well-preserved medieval towns and villages on the island are full of architectural gems." The authors emphasize that Korčula also has sandy beaches, which are "an attraction almost unheard of in Croatia."

Second place went to Skiathos, which according to the authors looks like the ideal Greek island. It has turquoise bays, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and beautiful sunsets.

"This pine-scented island with an extraordinary history is located near the mainland, halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki," we read. Tourists will also be delighted by the local cuisine based on fresh seafood.

The top three is completed by Sardinia, the second largest (after Sicily) island in the Mediterranean. "Some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, coastal trails with breathtaking views, spectacular coves surrounded by cliffs, rocky mountains, and small hilltop villages" - the authors enumerate.