More than two famous names
The Cyclades are the classic Greek islands of the imagination: whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, windmills and clear water. They are reached from Athens by ferry or, for some islands, by short domestic flights. Santorini and Mykonos are the best known, but they are also among the busiest and most expensive.
If it is your first time, it is worth looking at a few other options that might fit your plans better.
Naxos and Paros: the all-rounders
Naxos is the largest island in the group and one of the most varied. It has long sandy beaches on its west coast, mountain villages inland, ancient sites and a strong farming tradition, which means excellent local cheese and produce. It suits families and travellers who want to mix beach days with exploring.
Paros, next door, combines lively harbour towns with pretty villages and good beaches. It is well connected by ferry, making it a good base for day trips to smaller islands such as Antiparos.
Tinos and Syros: authentic and close
Tinos is known for its important pilgrimage church, its marble-carving tradition and dozens of traditional villages with dovecotes dotted across the hillsides. It is popular with Greek visitors and has a growing reputation for food.
Syros is the administrative capital of the Cyclades, and its main town, Ermoupoli, has neoclassical mansions and a grand town hall square that feel very different from the typical whitewashed village. It is a lived-in island, busy year-round.
Milos: for beach lovers
Milos is famous for its volcanic coastline, with white rock formations, colourful cliffs and sea caves. Many of its beaches are best explored by boat trip, which typically circles the island and stops at coves that are hard to reach by land. It has become more popular in recent years but still feels less busy than Santorini.
Planning tips
Ferry journey times vary widely depending on the island and the type of boat, from a few hours to most of a day. Conventional ferries are slower but more stable in strong winds; fast boats are quicker but can be bumpy. In summer, the meltemi wind can disrupt schedules, so build flexibility into your plans and avoid tight connections with your flight home from Athens.
Good to know
- Pick one or two islands rather than rushing between many.
- Book ferries early in July and August.
- Keep a spare day before your flight home from Athens.