GUIDE TO CYCLADES ISLANDS

TRAVEL GUIDES TO BEST CYCLADES ISLANDS

• Santorini

  Considered as the best Greek island and frequently included among the most romantic destinations in the world, Santorini is visited by millions of tourists every summer. You will get impressed by the steep caldera, the amazing sunset, the improssive villages such as Oia and the red and black sand beaches (Red beach). Do not miss a trip to the volcano, whose top can be seen from any spot of the caldera. For swimming, head to the southern side of Santorini, where most beach resorts can be found.
  Why Santorini: Most Popular Greek island, Couple & honeymoon destination, High class restaurants, Design boutique hotels, Amazing views and landscapes, Beautiful architecture.
  Highlights: Oia village, Red beach, Active Volcano, Famous sunset, Minoan Site of Akrotiri, Wineries, Archaeological Museum.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 5 days, Car rental is recommended, Island hopping opportunities.
  Where is Santorini: Santorini belongs to the Cyclades islands group and it is easily accessible from Athens.
  How to get there: Santorini has an international airport and frequent ferries depart from the ports of Athens.

• Mykonos

  Famous all over the world for the exotic beaches and the crazy nightlife, Mykonos is the second most popular Greek island, after Santorini. In the day, relax under the hot Greek sun and dance in the beach bars of Paradise beach and Super Paradise beach. In the evenings, head to the main town Chora and see the sunset from Little Venice, walk around the narrow streets and have fun in the all-night bars and clubs.
  Why Mykonos: Party destination/ nightlife, popular destination, luxury holiday, fine dining restaurants, design boutique hotels, beautiful organised sandy beaches, famous clubs, DJs and beach bars, famous beach parties, amazing architecture, sea sports.
  Highlights: Party, Little Venice, Windmills, Super Paradise beach, Psarrou beach, Day tour to Delos.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 5 days, Car rental is recommended, Ideal island hopping to Santorini, Paros, Naxos.
  Where is Mykonos: Mykonos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and actually in its center.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens (Piraeus & Rafina) everyday. Mykonos has also an International Airport.

• Paros

  One of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands of the Cyclades, Paros is famous for its Cycladic architecture, the wonderful beaches and the vivid nightlife. A drive around the island will bring you to traditional villages with white sugar houses and paved paths, while the countryside is scattered with small chapels. Golden Beach and New Golden Beach are very popular for windsurfing, while great beaches are also Kolymbithres and Santa Maria.
  Why Paros: Popular Cycladic destination, high class restaurants, design boutique hotels, nice architecture, party destination, sea sports (kitesurf and windsurf).
  Highlights: Ekatontapiliani Monastery, Kolympithres beach, Marchello Beach, Naousa town, Lefkes village.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 5 days, car is recommended, ideal island hopping to Naxos, Koufonisia, Amorgos. Day tours to Antiparos.
  Where is Paros: Paros belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is very close to Naxos.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens everyday. Paros has also an International Airport.

• Naxos

  Naxos is our team's favorite island! Although it is surrounded by very popular Greek islands, Naxos has kept its family style and the reason why it attracts more people every year is its authenticity, great beaches and food. Located in the centre of Cyclades, Naxos offer amazing beaches on the western side and picturesque mountainous villages in the countryside. All beaches of Naxos have exotic water and soft sand, while Mikri Vigla is considered among the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spot in the Cyclades.
  Why Naxos: Gastronomy, endless sandy beaches, small private beaches, archaeological sights, hiking, traditional villages, sea sports destination (kitesurf and windsurf), family friendly destination.
  Highlights: Plaka beach, Agios Prokopios beach, Chora, Portara, Chalki village, Apiranthos village.
  Tips: Suggested time: a week, car rental is strongly recommended, ideal island hopping to Paros, Koufonisia, Amorgos, Tinos, Mykonos.
  Where is Naxos: Naxos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is very close to Paros.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens (Piraeus) everyday. Naxos has also a national Airport.

• Milos

  A lovely island of western Cyclades, Milos is one of the most beautiful Greek islands. It keeps a calm atmosphere even in high season. Due to its volcanic background, Milos has barren landscape and crystal beaches, especially on the southern side. Do not miss the fishing village of Klima, with the colourful boat garages along the beach front, and a boat trip to Kleftiko caves, an amazing spot with rocks in the middle of the sea and exotic water.
  Why Milos: Amazing landscape, beautiful beaches, ideal for couples, Photogenic & Instagramic.
  Highlights: Boat tour to Kleftiko, Sarakiniko beach, Klima.
  Tips: Suggested days: 5 nights, Car is recommended, Island hopping to Kimolos, Santorini, Sifnos.
  Where is Milos: Milos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is very close to Kimolos.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens (Piraeus) everyday and a few from Athens (Lavrio).

• Ios

  Among the most popular Greek islands in the Cyclades, Ios is mostly frequented by youth due to the vivid nightlife with all-night parties. However, Ios has something to offer to all ages. Visitors will love the picturesque architecture of Chora and the crystal, sandy beaches of Mylopotas and Manganari. A hike around Ios will also bring you to secluded places and amazing hilltops.
  Why Ios: Party destination & nightlife (for youth), beautiful sandy beaches, nice restaurants, design boutique hotels.
  Highlights: Windmills, Tomb of Homer, Manganary beach, Mylopotas beach, Agia Theodoti beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 4 nights, car is recommended, ideal island hopping to: Santorini, Folegandros.
  Where is Ios: Ios belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is accessible from Athens (Piraeus).
  How to get there: There are frequent daily ferries from Athens (Piraeus) and from Santorini (International airport).

• Amorgos

  Located on the southern side of Cyclades, Amorgos island is a secluded island that keeps its calm paces even in high season. Famous for its traditional architecture, the crystal beaches and the barren landscape, Amorgos is a lovely Greek island to relax during your summer holidays. Do not miss the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, built entirely against a rock, and the beach of Agia Anna, where scenes from the film The Big Blue were shot.
  Why Amorgos: Wild landscape, Gastronomy, Ideal for couples, Hiking, Alternative lifestyle.
  Highlights: Chora (main town), Monastery of Hozoviotissa, Venetian Castle, Church of Agia Anna, Tholaria village.
  Tips: Suggested days: 3 nights, Car rent is obligatory, Ideal for island hopping from Naxos, Donousa & Koufonisia.
  Where is Amorgos : Amorgos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and it is easily accessible from Athens.
  How to get there: Only accessible by ferry. Amorgos has two main Ports: Aegiali and Katapola. Ferries depart from Athens (Piraeus) everyday to Katapola and few days a week to Aegiali.

• Koufonisia

  Located on the southern side of Naxos, Koufonissia is famous for the exotic beaches and the relaxing atmosphere. Only Pano Koufonissi is inhabited, while Kato Koufonissi is visited with a boat trip for the nice beaches, naturism and free camping. Most beaches in Koufonissia are accessible on foot or by bicycle. Dive in the exotic, blue-green water and experience the most relaxing holidays.
  Why Koufonissia: Sandy beaches with turquoise waters, family friendly (no cars), small islands, calm and easy-going, free camping and naturism (Kato Koufonissi).
  Highlights: Pori beach, Gala, Day tour to Kato Koufonisi.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, not car needed, ideal island hopping from Naxos, Amorgos, Donoussa.
  Where is Koufonissia: Koufonissia belongs to the Cyclades islands group and more especially in the "Small Cyclades islands" group. It is very close to Naxos.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Piraeus) few days a week. There are also ferries from Naxos to Koufonisia everyday.

• Antiparos

  Antiparos is a small island of the Cyclades, just opposite Paros. It is the island where famous actor Tom Hanks has his summer house. There is only one village and it is called Chora. This small island is considered the alternative of cosmopolitan Paros and it is renowned for it beautiful and design villas. The atmosphere is very relaxing there. Nightlife is lounge and mostly concentrated in few bars of Chora. There is also a very popular nightclub called "La Luna". The beaches along the eastern side of the island have crystal water and soft sand.
  Why Antiparos: Small island, sandy beaches, design villas, calm and easy going, alternative, camping destination, hippy style, fancy restaurants.
  Highlights: Cave of Antiparos, Chora, Soros Beach
  Tips: Suggested stays: 3 nights, Car rent is recommended, Ideal island hopping from Paros or day-trip from Paros.
  Where is Antiparos: Antiparos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is easily accessible from Athens through Paros.
  How to get there: There are no direct ferries from Athens. You can only approach Antiparos through Paros island. Small boats from Paros to Antiparos connect the two islands. There are frequent ferries from Athens to Paros. Note that Paros has an international airport.

• Syros

  Syros island is a gem not yet discovered by foreign tourists, and it mostly receives Greek visitors. A walk around Ermoupolis, the capital of the island, will bring you to elegant mansions, beautiful churches and large squares. The town gets very lively in the evenings with the nice bars at the waterfront. The beaches of Syros are nice and clean, surrounded by many accommodation.
  Why Syros: Family friendly, nice restaurants, architecture, culture.
  Highlights: Ermoupoli town, Town Hall, Ano Syros, Apollo theatre, Vaporia quarter, Galisas beach, Possidonia beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 3 nights, car is recommended, island hopping to: Mykonos, Andros, Tinos.
  Where is Syros: Syros belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is easily accessible from Athens.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens every day. Syros has also a National Airport.

• Sifnos

  Located on the western side of Cyclades, Sifnos island is developing over the last years as a place for both families and youth. Families will love the calm beaches with delicious restaurants, while the youth will get excited for the lively beach bars that stay open till the early hours. In Sifnos, do not miss the picturesque village of Kastro with the lovely church of Seven Martyrs at the entrance.
  Why Sifnos: Calm and easy-going, hiking, gastronomy, simple & chic style.
  Highlights: Seven Martyrs church, Apollonia village, Platys Gialos beach, Monastery of Chrissopigi, Sifnos trails.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 3 nights, car is recommended, ideal island hopping to: Milos, Folegandros, Ios, Mykonos.
  Where is Sifnos: Sifnos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is in a relatively small distance from Athens.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens (Piraeus) everyday.

• Folegandros

  An island of Western Cyclades, Folegandros stands out for its impressive Chora and the relaxing atmosphere. Constructed along the slopes of a hill, Chora has lovely narrow paths and white sugar houses. A cobbled path up from Chora leads to the church of Panagia, which offers amazing view to the Aegean Sea. The beaches of Folegandros are secluded and have clean water.
  Why Folegandros: Romantic destination, unspoiled by tourism, small remote island, calm and easy-going.
  Highlights: Kastro, Church of Panagia, boat tour to Karavostasi beach, Ano Mera.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 3 nights, car is not necessary, ideal island hopping to: Sifnos, Milos, Serifos,Santorini.
  Where is Folegandros: Folegandros belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is easily accessible from Athens.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Folegandros everyday.

• Tinos

  Although it is mostly famous for the miracle-working church of Virgin Mary, Tinos is also an island for relaxing family vacations. The beaches on the southern side of Tinos have clean water and they are protected from strong winds. Worth to visit are the mountainous villages of the countryside that stand out for the traditional vibes and the picturesque architecture: Do not miss Pyrgos and Kardiani. Scattered in the inland of Tinos are lovely chapels and dovecotes.
  Why Tinos: Gastronomy, surfing destination, traditional villages, Architecture, Hiking, Museums, Culture, Religious destination.
  Highlights: Dovecotes, Kolympithra beach, church of Evangelistria, Halepas museum, Pyrgos village, Kardiani Village, Volax village.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 4 nights, Car rental is strongly recommended, ideal Island hopping to: Andros, Mykonos, Syros.
  Where is Tinos: Tinos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is easily accessible from Athens.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens (Piraeus and Rafina ports) everyday.

• Andros

  Although it is located very close to Athens, the island of Andros keeps its calm, family vibes in summer. The picturesque architecture of Chora is the most distinctive characteristic of Andros. You will love the narrow cobbled streets of Chora, the amazing view to the Aegean and the elegant mansions. The beaches in Andros are crystal and relaxing.
  Why Andros: Family friendly, hiking, museums, nice beaches, nature lovers.
  Highlights: Goulandris Museum of Modern Art, Tourlitis Lighthouse, Katakilos waterfalls, Panagia Thalassini church, Tis grias to pidima beach, Achla beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 4 nights, Car rental is recommended, Ideal island hopping from Tinos.
  Where is Andros: Andros belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is in short distance from Athens.
  How to get there: Only accessible fy ferry. Frequent ferries from Athens (Rafina & Lavrio port) available everyday.

• Serifos

  An island unspoiled by mass tourism, Serifos contains all the beauty of Cyclades: picturesque village constructed on the hilltop, clean beaches and amazing view to the Aegean Sea. Although it is only two hours ferry ride from Athens, it doesn't get crowded in summer. It keeps the perfect atmosphere for relaxing holidays. In the day, enjoy the hot sun and the clean sea, while in the evening head to Chora for a lounge drink.
  Why Serifos: Family friendly, beautiful beaches, simple & chic style.
  Highlights: Chora village, Piazza Square, Old Mines, Ganema beach, Livadi beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 4 nights, car is recommended, island hopping to: Milos, Sifnos, Kythnos.
  Where is Schinoussa: Serifos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is in a relatively small distance from Athens.
  How to get there: There are frequent ferries from Athens (Piraeus & Lavrio port) everyday.

• Kythnos

  Although it is only two hours ferry ride from Athens, Kythnos is not a touristic island. Due to its close distance to the mainland, it is mostly frequented by Athenians in summer weekends. With two picturesque villages, Chora and Driopida, and nice, secluded beaches, Kythnos is a lovely place for short break. The most famous beach of Kythnos is Kolona, which is actually a narrow stretch of land dividing the sea in two sides.
  Why Kythnos: Small island, family friendly, Cclm and easy-going.
  Highlights: Kolona beach, Chora, Driopida beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, no car needed, ideal island hopping from Kea.
  Where is Kythnos: Kythnos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is accessible very close to Athens.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Lavrio & Piraeus).

• Anafi

  Anafi is a tiny island very close to Santorini. It stands out for the barren landscape and the secluded beaches. Its only village is located among rocky cliffs, beaches are accessible mostly on foot and small chapels are scattered along the landscape. Tourism on Anafi is not at all developed but visitors will find the basic amenities for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
  Why Anafi: Small remote island, unspoiled by tourism, (free) camping destination, calm and easy going, beautiful beaches, alternative, hippy style, hiking.
  Highlights: Kalamiotissa Monastery & Kalamos rock, Kleisidi beach, Roukouna beach, Chora.
  Tips: Suggested days: 2 nights, car rent is optional.
  Where is Anafi: Anafi belongs to the Cyclades islands group and it is accessible from Athens and Santorini.
  How to get there: Only accessible fy ferry. Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) and Santorini to Anafi are available a few days a week.

• Kea

  A beautiful island only one hour from the port of Lavrion near Athens, Kea (or Tzia) is a secret gem, still undiscovered by foreign visitors. This island stands for its traditional vibes and the barren scenery. Although it gets frequented by Athenians in summer weekends, the rest of the year is far quiter than other Cyclades islands. Explore the clean beaches, the nice villages and the hidden natural treasures. Ideal for relaxing and privacy all year round.
  Why Kea: Family destination, small island, calm and easy-going, hiking.
  Highlights: Stone lion, Monastery of Panagia Kastriani, Ancient Karthea, Koundouros beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, car rental is recommended, ideal island hopping to Kythnos island.
  Where is Kea: Kea belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is very close to Athens.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Lavrio) everyday and the route takes 1 hour.

• Kimolos

  Tiny and beautiful, the island of Kimolos is only 30 minutes ferry ride from Milos. Although it is very close to a tourist Greek island, Kimolos has kept its quiet and traditional character. The most popular areas on Kimolos are the port and the village, however if you do some trekking on the island, you will find more picturesque and remote places. Most beaches of Kimolos are accessible on foot and have amazing water.
  Why Kimolos: Small remote island, calm and easy-going, alternative, hippy style.
  Highlights: Prasa beach, Boat tour to Polyaigos, Skiadi.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, no car needed, ideal island hopping from Milos.
  Where is Kimolos: Kimolos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is accessible from Milos and Athens.
  How to get there: There are only direct ferries from Athens (Lavrio) to Kimolos every Friday. The most common way to approach Kimolos is through Milos. Small boats from Milos to Kimolos connect the two islands.There are ferries from Athens to Milos everyday.

• Donoussa

  Donoussa is a tiny island located in the centre of the Cyclades island, to the east of Naxos. Although Donoussa was inhabited in the ancient times, it was gradually abandoned due to raids of pirates in the Middle Ages. When piracy in the Aegean Sea was confronted, residents from neighbouring Amorgos island settled on Donoussa. Now it is one of the remotest islands in Greece, where you can enjoy real traditional life and secluded beaches.
  Why Donoussa: Small remote island, unspoiled by tourism, calm and easygoing, alternative, hippy lifestyle, free camping destination.
  Highlights: Kendros beach, Boat tour to the caves.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, Car is not necessary, Ideal island hopping to Amorgos, Koufonisia, Naxos.
  Where is Donoussa: Donoussa belongs to the Cyclades islands group and more especially to the "Small Cyclades group". It is easily accessible from Athens.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Donoussa few days a week.

• Sikinos

  Sikinos is a pure Cycladic island located between Ios and Folegandros. Its capital, Chora, is one of the most traditional Cycladic settlements and the island is surrounded by nice beaches. Some of them are organized, while others are perfect for complete isolation. Apart from the port beach, the other beaches in Sikinos are accessible on foot or by boat. The only sightseeing on the island is the Byzantine Monastery of Episkopi.
  Why Sikinos: Small remote island, away from mass tourism, hiking, calm, easy-going and low profile style.
  Highlights: Chora village, Episkopi Monastery, Panagia Pantochara.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, no car needed, island hopping to: Santorini, Folegandros, Ios.
  Where is Sikinos: Sikinos belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is in a relatively small distance from Athens.
  How to get there: There are few ferries per week from Athens (Piraeus & Lavrio ports).

• Schinoussa

  Schinoussa is a tiny island located to the south of Naxos and very close to Ios and Amorgos. Schinoussa has only a few inhabitants and paces of life there are slow and traditional. The wild landscape, the isolate beaches, the hospitality of the locals and the true Cycladic style amazes visitors. This is a great island to enjoy pure privacy.
  Why Schinoussa: Small remote island, gastronomy, away from mass tourism, calm and easy going, alternative style.
  Highlights: Psili Ammos beach, Chora.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, No car needed, ideal island hopping to: Naxos, Amorgos, Koufonisia.
  Where is Schinoussa: Schinoussa belongs to the Cyclades islands group and more especially to the Small Cyclades islands group.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Schinoussa few days a week. There is a daily ferry from Naxos island.

• Iraklia

  Geographically located between Naxos and Ios, Iraklia is a small island that remains untouched by mass tourism. There, you can enjoy some truly relaxing vacations, away from large crowds and noisy spots. Tourism on Iraklia is not developed a lot, except for the basic amenities. Beaches are isolate, villages are traditional and people are welcoming. In Iraklia, visitors will find the purest aspect of traditional Greek life.
  Why Iraklia: Small remote island, free camping destination, calm and easy going, nice beaches, alternative, hippy lifestyle, hiking
  Highlights: Cave of Saint John, Livadi beach.
  Tips: Suggested stays: 2 nights, Not car needed, ideal island hopping to: Naxos, Amorgos, Koufonisia.
  Where is Iraklia: Iraklia belongs to the Cyclades islands group and is accessible from Athens (Piraeus) but also from Naxos.
  How to get there: There are ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Iraklia few days a week and a daily ferry from Naxos island.