6Naxos, Greece

Naxos is proof that paradise doesn’t have to mean tiny or exclusive. It is one of the largest Cycladic islands and offers an impressive combination of beaches, mountains, villages, history and food.

Long sandy beaches such as Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are ideal for relaxed beach days, while the mountainous interior is dotted with traditional villages and ancient monuments.

Chora, the island’s capital, is particularly atmospheric in the evening, with narrow lanes leading through the old Venetian quarter.

And then there’s the food. Naxos is famous for its cheeses, potatoes, local meats and agricultural produce, making it one of Greece’s best islands for travelers who enjoy eating as much as sightseeing.

Paradise factor: Beautiful beaches combined with authentic island life.