This gorgeous Greek island was just named Europe’s most underrated

Lesbos is Europe's most underrated island

By Amanda Teague Published August 16, 2025 4:00 AM

Lesbos Greece — Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

If you’re dreaming of an island escape without the crushing crowds or eye-watering prices, one Greek gem is calling your name. A new study by car rental company Avis analyzed search volumes and Instagram hashtags for Europe’s most popular island destinations, then identified quieter, equally incredible alternatives.

The top spot? Lesbos, Greece’s third-largest island, perched near Türkiye in the Aegean Sea. Famous as the birthplace of ancient poet Sappho and for its signature ouzo, Lesbos offers a true taste of authentic Greek life. The capital, Mytilene, is busy year-round with waterfront nightlife, traditional markets along Ermou Street, and historic treasures like the Castle of Mytilene and the Church of Agios Therapon. The hilltop town of Molyvos takes you back in time with Venetian castles, cobblestone lanes, and sweeping sea views.

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Nature lovers will find plenty to do, from hiking and birdwatching to horseback riding and water biking, while the island’s beaches range from secluded coves to bustling seaside stretches.

And getting there is easier than you might think. Many airlines offer routes from the United States to Lesbos, typically with a layover in Athens before a quick one-hour hop to Mitilini Airport Odysseas Elytis (MJT).

Greece dominated Avis’s list, claiming six of the top 10 underrated islands, followed by Croatia with two, and Portugal and Italy with one each.

The top 10 underrated European islands

These are the top 10 underrated European islands, according to Avis.

Lesbos, Greece
Porto Santo, Portugal
Symi, Greece
Skopelos, Greece
Cres, Croatia
Andros, Greece
Karpathos, Greece
Brac, Croatia
La Maddalena, Italy
Thasos, Greece

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Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…

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