This Island Is The Mediterranean’s Best Kept Secret For A Paradise Vacation

Did you know there’s a spitting image of the island of Greece, but it’s in fact not Greece at all?

At least not any longer…

With thousands of islands speckled across the vast Aegean, Greece has no shortage of map-dot paradises.

But there’s one island a stone’s throw from lesser-known Greek islands and mainland Turkiye’s coastline.

Once ethnically-Greek until the 20th century, when it had an entirely different (and much easier to spell) name, the Greek vibes started way back when it was Tenedos.

Nowadays, even with undeniable characteristics matching that of Santorini, Crete, and Mykonos (without the buzzing nightlife), the practically unknown Turkish island of Bozcaada is the Mediterranean’s best-kept secret for a paradise vacation.

No matter if you’re a history buff, foodie, wine lover, culture seeker, or just simply seeking a new adventure in the Med, Bozcaada will leave a lasting impression, making the far-flung journey worthwhile.

Greek Vibes But No Crowds!

Santorini is an iconic name in the same breath as Athens, though for entirely different types of vacations.

In a normal year, Santorini would be overflowing with tourists, but due to earthquakes, this usual vacation hotspot found itself in a shaky decline, yet that hasn’t stopped travelers from far and wide flocking to other Greek islands.

Turkiye’s Bozcaada offers the same experience with Turkish flair and within the same vicinity of Greece as it shares otherworldly blue-water shores, incredible views, and sensational cuisine — all without crowds any time of year.

Bozcaada is a textbook hidden gem. In fact, it’s mostly local Turks and Greeks who visit to flip the script and escape the Brits, Aussies, and yes, Americans.

I once asked a local cafe owner how they compete with Starbucks, and they told me their goal is to serve 3000 customers per week. To that I said, “good luck”.

To put in perspective the lack of crowds, that’s how many people live on Bozcaada Island.

But as they say, good things come in small packages (with the exception of honeymoons).

This blip on the map is full of surprises. With a balanced blend of Greek and Turkish influence, you can experience slivers of Istanbul and Athens in pint-sized form, such as the island’s biggest surprise you likely never knew existed, the staggering Bozcaada Castle.

It’s no Acropolis or grand mosque, but it’s a sight to behold. Best of all, there’s no line to visit and experience its magic in addition to the charming maze of cobbled streets in town.

Pretty Beaches & Cozy Stays: Leave The Overpriced Villas To Santorini

I’m not one to pass up a ritzy all-inclusive when I get the chance, but I also enjoy an authentic stay without the pizazz just as much sometimes.

Since Bozcaada is a year-round destination boasting an enviable Mediterranean climate, here are a few beaches to keep in mind with comments from recent beachgoers (though some say Bozcaada’s waters can be chilly):

• Sulubahçe Beach: “Almost perfect. Loved it. One of the best beaches I have ever visited.”
• Ayazma Beach: “It’s a beautiful, sandy beach. It’s not too crowded on weekdays.”
• Tuzburnu Beach: “If you don’t like seaweed, it’s a beautiful sandy beach”

Some beaches charge for loungers and umbrellas, but it won’t break the bank. It’s wise to bring cash (Turkish lira).

As you might imagine, a little-known island of 3,000 residents doesn’t have many places to stay.

Pelagos Hotel offers the best location at premium pricing, but Bozcaada Denizyildizi Otel goes for under $100 per night in October.

Wine & Dine In Paradise

If you don’t follow global news, you may have missed how up and down Turkiye’s economy can be.

As such, it’s hard to predict pricing across the board, but it’s reasonable to suggest $10 will get you an unforgettable meal, especially if you’re into fresh seafood.

Though Bozcaada’s claim to fame for those in the know is the growing wine scene.

Highly-regarded Corvus Winery has become a go-to spot for those with particular palates looking for hard-to-find grapes and a sense of serenity in a tranquil inland setting.

Not that Bozcaada really gets crowded, if you want to visit true off-path vineyards, even some of the few thousand locals likely haven’t ventured to Old Stone Well Vineyard.