With approximately 6,000 islands and islets scattered across the Greek Seas, there are dozens of uninhabited private islands for sale.
Greece stands as the ultimate paradise for sea lovers and for those who dream of owning a piece of the country’s legendary “floating land.” The allure of Greek islands is deeply etched in popular imagination, conjuring images of places like Skorpios, once shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis’ private Ionian Sea retreat and a near-mythical playground for the world’s elite from the 1960s to the 1980s.
Several decades later, it’s still possible to acquire a private island in Greece. However, finding currently listed whole private islands can be akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. This remains a highly niche and often confidential market. Many sales are conducted off-market, and public listings frequently omit the island’s precise name or exact location for reasons of privacy and discretion.
Despite this exclusivity, several specialized luxury real estate agencies and aggregators do feature these coveted properties. These firms are your gateway to fulfilling that ultimate Mediterranean dream.
Here are some examples of top Greek private islands that have recently been on the market or are representative of available options:
St. Athanasios Island, Gulf of Corinth
Though it may be among the smallest of Greece’s private islands, St. Athanasios boasts one of the most picturesque locations. Situated just one kilometer (0.6 miles) from the mainland, it’s easily accessible by boat from the nearby coastal town of Itea.
This charming private island spans approximately 10,811 square meters (2.67 acres) of flat land, its interior graced by fragrant pine and olive trees. Its surroundings offer tranquility, its waters are crystal-clear, and a sandy beach marks the northwestern coast. One of its greatest assets is its unrestricted freehold title, along with indispensable supporting documents from all relevant authorities and clearance from any Natura 2000 environmental restrictions. This idyllic retreat is available for $2.2 million.
Stroggilo Island, Dodecanese
This captivating islet of 54 acres (approximately 21.85 hectares) on the eastern side of the Aegean Sea offers generous anchorage alongside three natural beaches. Stroggilo (or Strogylo, meaning “round” in Greek) sits adjacent to Skopelos island, making it an ideal sanctuary for sailors and island hoppers. While an old house and a well currently stand in ruin on the property, future development plans would be subject to permissions and approvals by relevant authorities. The island benefits from its attractive proximity to recreational areas, such as the serene beach town of Marathi, just a short boat journey away, renowned for its tranquil shores and welcoming tavernas. Price tag: $2.5 million.
Panteleimona Island, Oinousses
Located just 100 meters (about 330 feet) from the shore, Panteleimona island presents a unique blend of island beauty, proximity to community and tourist hubs, and significant potential for development. Its close distance—only 250 meters (about 820 feet)—from the island of Oinousses means prospective residents can enjoy the calm of their own private island while having near-direct access to amenities and services. This private island, nestled in the Chino Strait, is part of an island complex in the Northern Aegean, situated between the island of Chios and the Asia Minor peninsula of Eritrea.
Described by some real estate developers as a “Mediterranean gem,” this verdant island of 36,710 square meters (approximately 9.07 acres) boasts lush vegetation and is surrounded by crystal-clear waters. In its current state, Panteleimona features three small churches, each with its own unique history, and a well. A small marina also serves the island, which has a development potential of up to 200 square meters. Listing price: $4.13 million.
Petalas Island, Ionian Sea
Also known as Dulichium Island, Petalas is the largest private island in all of Greece and is highly sought after by future developers. It is part of the Echinades, an archipelago in the Ionian Sea, and features several sandy beaches, small bays, and natural harbors. Its foremost characteristic is its impressive size, spanning a staggering 1,335 acres (approximately 540 hectares) and rising to a high point of 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level. The majority of the island’s area has been declassified by the Greek Forestry Bureau, indicating significant potential for development. The island currently lacks roads and utility infrastructure. Its listing price is reported to be around $35 million.
Makri Island, Ionian Sea
Makri is a private island in the Ionian Sea, located 30 kilometers (about 18.6 miles) east of Kefalonia and 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) northwest of Patras, Greece’s third-largest city. Corfu and Zakynthos, two well-known travel hubs, are also within the surrounding area, offering an array of recreation and leisure opportunities.
The 243-acre (approximately 98.3 hectares) property boasts over seven kilometers (4.3 miles) of coastline and forested peaks. However, the island’s heavily forested state puts its potential for extensive development into question due to environmental regulations. Current asking price: $8.64 million (approx. 8 million euros).
Kouneli Island, Ionian Sea
Kouneli is a private island within the Ionian group, with its closest neighbor, Makri, also available on the Greek real estate market. The island comprises 23 acres (approximately 9.3 hectares) of sloped and level land, lengths of rocky shorelines, and an abundance of interior vegetation. Despite its flora coverage, the island has been officially cleared of all forestry restrictions, improving its development prospects. Current asking price: $4.32 million (approx. 4 million euros).
Unnamed Island, Kavala
This well-connected private island is located just one kilometer (0.6 miles) from shore, 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) from the seaport city of Kavala, and approximately 120 kilometers (74.5 miles) east of Thessaloniki. Of the island’s total area, three hectares (7.4 acres) are designated as forestland, thus strictly prohibiting construction. However, the remaining approximately 11.5 hectares (28.4 acres) can be built upon.
Much of the island’s 2.5-kilometer (1.55 miles) coastline is inaccessible, though some areas would suit development. There are also a handful of small, shallow beaches on the island’s eastern and northern sides. Current asking price: $3.24 million (approx. 3 million euros).
Vouvalos Island, Ambracian Gulf
Vouvalos Island sits within the Ambracian Gulf, both the largest enclosed gulf in Greece and an area designated as a national park due to its ecological significance. This inlet is a region less traveled than most, a factor that enhances its appeal as one of Greece’s hidden gems. Vouvalos itself is an island of particular charm.
Its unusual shape provides several natural harbors and beaches, ideal spaces for recreation and leisure. Meanwhile, much of the property’s interior is marked by olive groves and pine trees. A lagoon also sits at the center of the island. Information regarding the island’s development potential requires further inquiry, and the current asking price has not been disclosed.
Patroklos Island, Attica
A culturally and historically rich 643-acre (approximately 260 hectares) Greek isle, Patroklos is notably close to Athens and has been coveted by investors for years. The north-northeast side of the island is flat and reasonably passable, with soil suitable for cultivation.
It boasts approximately 5,050 olive trees, numerous pine trees, and dense bushy areas. About 150 goats, owned by the family, graze on the island. The northern section covers approximately 275 acres (111 hectares) of cultivable land, with the remainder being rocky and featuring green-hued marble. The price for this significant island has not been disclosed.
Petalioi Island, Evia
This 34.10-acre (approximately 13.8 hectares) private island is a secluded piece of heaven, seconds away from an exotic private beach with crystal-clear waters shimmering in emerald and sapphire hues. Opportunities for recreation abound, including hiking trails and bike paths on land, and fishing, snorkeling, diving, and swimming in the surrounding waters. Price is not disclosed.
St. Thomas, Saronic Gulf
With an asking price of approximately $16,733,601, St. Thomas Island is part of the Diapori chain in the Saronikos Gulf, an area of Greece mythologized for the lush, emerald beauty of its picturesque islands.
The island is the middle in a chain of three islands reportedly available for sale, totaling 300 acres (approximately 121 hectares), with 50 acres (20.2 hectares) specifically clear for purchase.
Drimalia Island, Naxos
Located in the Aegean Sea, within the Cyclades complex, Drimalia Island boasts a natural harbor suitable for boats. The waters are crystal clear, making it an appropriate location for someone seeking numerous excursions or looking to invest, as it sits centrally in the Aegean Sea with many islands surrounding it.
Amorgos, Koufonisia, and Naxos are the closest, while Mykonos and Santorini are just a few hours away. The closest airport is in Naxos, offering charter flights directly to the island, avoiding a stop in Athens. According to the owner, the property has all the necessary legal documents for sale. Price: $9.612 million (approx. 8,900,000 euros).
Kardiotissa Island, Folegandros
This amazing 1,337-acre (approximately 541 hectares) island in the Cyclades features much arable land, with the potential for 50-60 acres (20-24 hectares) to be constructed upon, despite a significant amount of undergrowth. There is also an old church in relatively good condition.
The north side is quite elevated, rocky, and steep due to wind exposure, while the south side is very smooth, leading to a small sheltered bay. It is about half a mile away from a larger island and is also one of the few privately owned islands in the area. Price: $5.292 million (approx. 4,900,000 euros).
Unnamed Island, Naxos
Situated in an excellent location within the Aegean Sea, this beautiful green island offers a wonderful panoramic view in all directions. The island has an area of approximately 550 acres (approximately 222.5 hectares). The wild beauty of the island’s landscape, combined with the magnificent view of the Aegean Sea creates a tropical paradise on earth.
The numerous beaches along the island offer endless moments of relaxation and fun away from prying eyes. This island is an ideal choice for creating a tourism business or for establishing your personal paradise and ultimate vacation spot. Price: $12.96 million (approx. 12,000,000 euros).
Yes, it is absolutely possible to buy a Greek island, or at least a private piece of land on an island or a whole private islet. It’s a dream for many, but it comes with several practical and legal considerations.
1. Is it a Whole Island or a Piece of Land?
Whole Private Islands/Islets: These properties do come up for sale, but they are exceptionally rare and often command extremely high prices. Many “islands” advertised for sale are actually small, uninhabited islets or very large, private plots of land on larger, inhabited islands that are marketed to evoke the “private island” experience.
2. The Buying Process for Foreigners
The process for buying property in Greece, including entire islands or large plots, is generally straightforward for foreigners, but it necessitates professional assistance to navigate its complexities.
Whole private islands/islets do come up for sale all the time, but they are exceptionally rare and often command extremely high prices. Many “islands” advertised for sale are actually small, uninhabited islets or very large, private plots of land on larger, inhabited islands that are marketed to evoke the “private island” experience.
Real estate market insiders say that the first step for buying a private island is finding a reputable agent. Engaging a lawyer is absolutely essential. Your legal counsel will conduct comprehensive due diligence, meticulously checking property deeds for the past 20 years to ensure there are no encumbrances such as mortgages, third-party claims, pending legal proceedings, or other obstacles. They will also ensure full compliance with all relevant planning regulations.
Engaging an architect or civil engineer is also very important as these professionals will perform a technical inspection to confirm the property’s precise area, building coefficient (the maximum allowable construction on the plot), and strict compliance with building permits and urban planning requirements. For undeveloped land, they will specifically verify approvals from the Archaeology and Forest Services and identify any specific land uses or protections (e.g., seashore boundaries, protected natural habitats).
Prospective buyers should also retain a notary to draft and certify all transaction documents, and obtain a Greek Tax Registry Number (AFM): This unique identification number is mandatory for anyone buying property in Greece. Also, opening a a Greek Bank Account is necessary.
For non-EU citizens, you may be eligible for Greece’s Golden Visa program if your investment in Greek real estate meets certain financial thresholds (currently ranging from $270,000 to $864,000, depending on the area). This program grants a five-year residency permit, which is a significant draw for many international buyers.
