The best Greek islands for vegans and vegetarians
The hot Greek sun, the fertile soil and the regional recipies place the Greek islands at the top of the Mediterranean diet. Discover the top islands in Greece for vegans and vegetarians and get ready for a unique culinary experience.
Aegina
The colorful port in Aegina
There is no need to travel far from the city center in order to dive into crystal clear waters and taste vegan and vegetarian dishes.
Aegina is famous for the production of pistachio, a product that locals use in almost all their recipes. If you find yourself on the island, don't miss the chance to try beetroot salad or pasta with cauliflower and pistachios. For the ultimate summer combination, choose stuffed vegetables (gemista) with pistachios and elevate your meals on the island.
Crete
Beautiful Rethymno
We continue with an island that has a lot to offer. In general, Crete is a paradise for foodies. Pies, wild greens and roasted vegetables are just a few of the vegan dishes you can try whether you're vegan or not.
Keep in mind that in most cases you can customize your dishes so you won't miss anything. For example, if you a vegan in Chania and traveling with a group, you can order dacos salad, a famous local dish, with the feta on the side.
The vegan lifestyle is not just about food. In Crete, you will find many different varieties of vegan wines to accompany your meals.
Santorini
Sea view from Santorini
Next stop, the Cyclades. More specifically, in Santorini you will find numerous recipies and dishes for vehans and vegetarians.
First of all, we have fava beans, a local product that features in many local recipes such as the authentic mash or puree with some onion and caper. If you want to try more flavors you can order some zucchini or tomato fritters and any variation of white eggplant.
Many wines from Santorini are vegan certified so whichever restaurant you choose you can ask about the varieties they offer.
Kimolos
The crystal clear waters in Kimolos
In Kimolos you will have the chance to taste the most delicious Greek flatbread pizza which is called ladenia. It has a dough base, fresh tomato sauce and a variety of vegetables on top. Ladenia is a dish that you will never get bored of as every day you can have your own combination.
For the hot days on the island, you can choose a refreshing salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and capers.
Sifnos
Traditional Sifnos
In case you are feeling homesick, the famous Sifnos chickpea is the perfect dish for you. Even though the recipe is straightforward, cooked chickpeas with onions and bay leaves, the outcome will astound you and will satisfy your hunger.
For a quicker and simpler meal, you can share this dish with your friends along with a crisp salad of seasonal vegetables.
Samos
Small boats in Samos
Travel to the northeastern part of the Aegean and taste the magic of simple, traditional cuisine. In Samos you will find all kinds of vegetables such as notchweeds (vlita) and mustard greens which you can enjoy boiled and served as a salad with some lemon.
No matter which restaurant you visit, you're sure to find stuffed vine leaves with rice and stuffed pumpkin blossoms. Last but not least, pumpkin pies, savory or sweet, are very popular among locals.
Corfu
Evergreen Corfu
The Ionian Islands are famous for their beaches, verdant scenery and bustling nightlife. Apart from all this, in Corfu you will find the famous kumquat which you can taste in different variations with the most common being the liqueur and the jam. Equally well-known are the small wild strawberries, the ultimate summer snack. All of the above are perfectly combined with the traditional pancakes and are the ultimate brunch for your days on the island.
The truth is that Corfu offers plenty of vegan options. Stroll around the narrow streets and discover all small vegan and vegetarian shops.
The Greek islands have a rich culinary history with all kinds of flavours and dishes for all tastes. Even if you're not vegan or vegetarian it's worth taking a look at the local produce and simple traditional recipes. Tour the Greek islands with Let's Ferry and sample the local cuisine.