These 5 Greek islands are for sale and on the radar of the world's millionaires

Greece, with its geography fragmented into more than 6,000 islands and islets, still preserves a handful of idyllic retreats for those who dream of owning a piece of paradise. Although most of the country's tourist destinations are marked by overcrowding, some private islands—hidden among crystal clear waters and surrounded by mythology—remain off the conventional radar. Of that island universe, around 150 islands are privately owned. Many of them changed hands during the financial crisis that shook the country beginning in 2009, when the Greek government encouraged foreign investment to meet its commitments to international creditors. Today, supply has decreased and exclusivity has gained value: few islands remain available, and their acquisition has become a veritable obstacle course between millionaires, hotel companies, and Greek bureaucracy. The modern phenomenon of private islands in Greece has one undisputed icon: Skorpios. Purchased in the 1960s by tycoon Aristotle Onassis off the island of Lefkada, it became synonymous with exclusivity. He married Jackie Kennedy there in 1968, and the remains of the businessman and his children also rest there. "After decades of belonging to the Onassis family, the island was sold in 2013 to Dmitry Rybolovlev, a Russian billionaire, who transformed it into a private luxury resort, where a week's stay can cost more than €1 million. Its history marked a turning point in the valuation of these private lands. “Although Skorpios is no longer available, there are other islands that can still be purchased by those seeking privacy, unspoiled nature, and development opportunities. Here are some of the most striking ones: ”With just one hectare, this island located in the Gulf of Corinth offers unspoiled nature and proximity to historical sites such as Delphi and Galaxidi. Covered with olive and pine trees, it has authorization to build up to 250 square meters and is not subject to severe environmental restrictions. It is for sale for around €2 million. Located in the Echinades archipelago in the Ionian Sea, this 17-hectare island is surrounded by a protected environment. Its proximity to Ithaca and its history—mentioned by Homer and Thucydides—give it additional charm. Although it has no buildings yet, it is in the process of being cleared for up to six small homes. Its price is around €3 million. Just 45 minutes from Athens, this island in the Saronic Gulf combines the convenience of urban proximity with the tranquility of an island landscape. It has several beaches, is classified as agricultural land—which facilitates permits—and has an estimated price of €15 million. This five-hectare island, covered with olive trees, cypresses, and fruit trees, was chosen by the Beatles for a private vacation. It is only an hour and a half from Athens and has two traditional houses, a chapel, and a pier. Its value is around €7 million. "With 259 hectares, this island located opposite Cape Sounion has a direct connection to the mainland (water and electricity network), which facilitates the development of tourism or agricultural projects. It has more than 5,000 olive trees, existing buildings, and a license for new homes. Its proximity to Athens airport and the Temple of Poseidon makes it particularly attractive. The process of buying a Greek island is not easy: it requires going through multiple legal procedures, environmental permits, and, in many cases, the intervention of different state agencies. Added to this is the fact that many of the available islands have restrictions because they belong to protected areas or have archaeological value." However, this does not deter the interest of large international fortunes. According to the consulting firm Private Islands Inc., the main interested parties come from Russia, the Middle East, Western Europe, and the United States. For many, it is not just about acquiring land: it is also about buying a status symbol and a refuge in times of global uncertainty. In a scenario where available islands are becoming increasingly scarce and prices are rising, Greece is reaffirming itself as a destination where luxury, history, and nature converge on pieces of land surrounded by legends and turquoise seas.