Start from the world-famous island of Mykonos, and let the wind carry you through the Aegean’s most dazzling destinations — Serifos, Milos, Folegandros, Santorini, Ios, Paros, and Delos.
Each island tells its own story: from volcanic cliffs and postcard-perfect villages to secret coves and unforgettable sunsets. Aboard your luxury catamaran, you’ll discover the authentic Cycladic spirit — whitewashed beauty, deep blue horizons, and the effortless elegance of freedom.
Start from the cosmopolitan buzz of Mykonos toward Serifos an island of raw beauty and authentic charm.
The Cycladic island of Serifos is one of the prettiest off the beaten track destinations of the Aegean! With no overwhelming numbers of tourist facilities, its has maintained its traditional atmosphere and the untamed beauty of its natural landscape! Explore Chora, set above the sea, known for its narrow streets, windmills, and beautiful light.
Continue your journey to Milos, a volcanic masterpiece sculpted by nature’s artistry.
The rare morphology of Milos, along with its mineral richness, creates dream-like combinations of spectacular rock formations and caves, mosaics of various textures and breath-taking colors that surprise and enchant everyone lucky enough to visit this island.
With over 40 beaches, each one different in color and character, Milos is a paradise for sea lovers. Visit Sarakiniko, the moonlike landscape of white volcanic rock, or Kleftiko, where caves and crystal blue waters invite you to dive in and explore. As night falls, the port of Adamas is the perfect spot for a memorable dinner by the water.
Folegandros is an island of incredible natural beauty located between Paros and Santorini.
Relatively untouched by international tourists, Folegandros island still manages to keep its unspoiled charm. The hilltop Chora is among the most beautiful in the Aegean — timeless, romantic, and peaceful. The hilltop Chora is among the most beautiful in the Aegean. Tavernas here are serving special local delicacies and fine Greek wine.
Few places in the world can compare to Santorini.
Santorini is one of the most popular travel destinations worldwide and the most visited Greek island. It is one of the most magical places you will ever see! Explore Oia and Fira, admire volcanic beaches of red and black sand, and watch the sunset from the caldera, one of Earth’s most breathtaking sights.
Cruise north to Ios a vibrant island where relaxation and rhythm blend seamlessly.
Spend the day swimming at Mylopotas Beach or wandering through the maze-like streets of Ios Chora, filled with boutiques and bars. When evening falls, Ios comes alive — cocktails, music, and laughter echo under the Cycladic moonlight.
Paros welcomes you with a mix of tradition and sophistication.
Its harbor towns of Naoussa and Parikia are among the prettiest in the Aegean, combining lively nightlife with elegant simplicity. Swim in crystal waters, wander through marble-paved alleys, and enjoy fine dining in seaside restaurants that capture the refined essence of island life.
On your final day, cruise to the sacred island of Delos , the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Walk among ancient ruins and marble statues that whisper stories of gods and heroes. Then, return to Mykonos, where iconic windmills and the vibrant waterfront of Little Venice welcome you back. Sip a final sunset cocktail as you reflect on a week of pure Aegean magic.
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This 7-day Mykonos-to-Cyclades itinerary is more than a route — it’s a journey through the heart of Greek island elegance. From Serifos’s wild beauty to Santorini’s romantic skyline, each stop celebrates the spirit of the Aegean.
Book your Cyclades luxury catamaran charter today, and let your adventure unfold across Greece’s most iconic islands.
7 Days in the Ionian Islands from CorfuEmbark on an unforgettable voyage through the northern Ionian Sea, starting from Corfu, where sapphire waters, lush green landscapes, and centuries of culture blend into one of Greece’s most captivating sailing routes.
Set sail from Corfu, one of Greece’s most aristocratic islands, and journey south to Paxos.
The small island of Antipaxos lies just beyond — known for its crystal-clear lagoons and white pebble beaches that look like they’ve been painted by the gods. Anchor for a swim in Voutoumi Beach, often ranked among the most beautiful in Europe, and enjoy your first evening surrounded by tranquility and stars.
Continue south toward Lefkada (Lefkas), the island of cliffs and emerald bays.
Legend says that the sea god Poseidon created these islands with a stroke of his trident — and the beauty proves it true. Swim at Egremni or Porto Katsiki, two of the most photographed beaches in Greece, and enjoy dinner in a harbor taverna as your yacht rests beneath the stars.
A short sail brings you to Meganisi, a peaceful island untouched by mass tourism.
In Vathy village, wander along the harbor promenade lined with fishing boats and tavernas, or swim in the secluded coves of Agios Ioannis and Barbarezou. This is the place to slow down, savor Greek flavors, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of island life.
Sail south to the legendary homeland of Odysseus — Ithaki.
Every bay here whispers tales from Homer’s Odyssey. Explore Vathy, the island’s charming capital, and wander up to Perachori Village for panoramic views over the Ionian. Ithaki’s timeless aura and natural beauty make it a destination of reflection and peace — where myth meets the sea.
Cruise north along the coast to Preveza, a charming seaside town where Ionian authenticity thrives.
Stroll along its marina and old town, full of neoclassical buildings and lively cafés, or visit nearby ancient ruins like Nikopolis, founded by Augustus Caesar. Preveza’s warm hospitality and tranquil ambiance make it a delightful contrast to the open sea.
Sail to Syvota, often called the “Caribbean of Greece.”
Drop anchor in Bella Vraka or Pisina Bay, two breathtaking spots where nature still reigns supreme. Enjoy dinner ashore with the sound of cicadas and waves as your soundtrack. Anchor in secluded bays for swimming and snorkeling, glide past famous spots like Blue Lagoon and Bella Vraka, and soak in the peaceful Ionian vibes.
Return to Corfu , the island of elegance and heritage.
Stroll through Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its Venetian alleys, pastel facades, and lively squares. Relax on a terrace overlooking the Ionian, reliving the week’s memories — turquoise seas, hidden beaches, and the feeling of freedom that only sailing can offer.
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A Seven days in the Ionian will pass like a dream—Corfu’s golden evenings, Paxoi’s quiet coves, Lefkas’ endless blue. Between wind and water you will find an easy rhythm, shared moments that felt timeless, and left carrying more than memories: a calm that only the sea knows how to give.
7 Days in the Cyclades from AthensStart from Lavrio, your gateway to the Cyclades — a paradise of dazzling blue waters, whitewashed villages, and golden sunsets. From the tranquil coves of Kythnos and the culinary delights of Sifnos, to the volcanic wonder of Milos and the mythic cliffs of Sounio, each destination reveals a different shade of the Aegean dream.
Your voyage begins as you leave the port of Lavrio and cruise towards Kythnos, one of the Cyclades’ most serene gems.
Known for its unspoiled beauty and authentic charm, Kythnos boasts more than 70 beaches — many only reachable by boat. Discover the famous Kolona Beach, a stunning sandbar connecting two pieces of land, or unwind in the Loutra hot springs, where thermal waters flow directly into the sea.
Cruise deeper into the Cyclades to the refined beauty of Sifnos, an island that perfectly balances elegance, tradition, and gastronomy.
Drop anchor in Platis Gialos or Vathy Bay, swim in crystal waters, and wander through the whitewashed streets of Apollonia. End your day watching the sunset from Kastro, one of the most photogenic villages in the Aegean. Don’t miss Sifnos’s famous flavors — try revithada (chickpea stew) and mastelo (slow-cooked lamb with wine and cheese).
A true highlight of your journey, Milos is the island of colors and contrasts — sculpted by volcanoes and kissed by turquoise seas.
Anchor near Sarakiniko Beach, famous for its white lunar rocks, or explore Kleftiko, where sea caves and secret coves invite snorkeling and exploration. In the evening, stroll along the harbor of Adamas, dine under the stars, and feel the island’s magnetic energy.
Continue to Serifos, a rugged beauty that remains blissfully authentic. Its wild coastline and hilltop Chora create a postcard-perfect setting.
Anchor in Livadi Bay, where you can swim in calm waters or visit hidden beaches like Psili Ammos and Vagia. As the sun sets over the Aegean, enjoy a meal in a seaside taverna — the simple luxury of Greek island life at its best.
Cruise north to Kea (Tzia), where lush hills meet tranquil bays.
As you enter Vourkari Bay, the scent of pine trees and sea breeze welcomes you. Kea is perfect for a peaceful anchorage, surrounded by nature and elegant simplicity. Explore ancient ruins, hike to panoramic viewpoints, or enjoy a sunset dinner at a cozy seaside taverna.
Your route brings you to the majestic Cape Sounio, where the Temple of Poseidon stands proudly above the cliffs.
Approaching the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio by yacht is an experience that feels straight out of a myth. Arriving by yacht offers a rare sense of freedom and elegance: the scent of salt in the air, the sound of waves against the hull, and the temple standing watch above it all. Time your visit for sunset, when the sky ignites in shades of gold and crimson, and Poseidon’s sanctuary feels truly alive.
Final stop back to the Marina of Lavrion.
Wander its streets, visit the ancient silver mines, or enjoy a farewell lunch at a waterfront taverna. Reflect on a week of endless blue horizons, hidden coves, and unforgettable Greek moments — the essence of the Cyclades captured in every wave.
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A 7-day Cyclades itinerary from Lavrio offers the perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and indulgence. From Kythnos’s hot springs to Milos’s moonlit cliffs and the mythical sunsets of Sounio, every stop reveals a new chapter of Greece’s eternal story.
Which Greek Island Should You Visit in 2024?There’s an island in Greece for everybody, from hip Hydra to timeless Rhodes—here’s your guide to the best of them.
Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with recommendations on where to stay chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveler.
Here, we’ve also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1 to 29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list—and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can—we’ve also edited the list in order so if it’s your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next.
Best of the Greek islands for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline
Everyone knows the Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of Milos, the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.
Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colorful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth–obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.
Best of the Greek islands for: A long weekend with the art crowd
You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece’s foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht, Guilty, is painted in gaudy ‘camouflage’ by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island’s old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists’ muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the Old Carpet Factory, an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.
Less than two hours from Athens, Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There’s Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to Hydra, Greece.
Best of the Greek islands for: Big, fat Greek feasts
Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3, where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina, an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It’s just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.
Best of the Greek islands for: Honeymooners and first-timers
Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind Santorini’s caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini’s heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumors about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)
Apart from a boat trip to the smoldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there’s not much to do but gaze at the mesmerizing views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco’s Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).
Best of the Greek islands for: Culture and off-season cachet
On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colorful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks–one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.
Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros’ industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid—with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound: Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup; Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra, where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and Django Gelato, where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is Mazi, a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from Prekas delicatessen, and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider guide to Syros.
Best of the Greek islands for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz
The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favorite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend Pounta, where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at diminutive Astarti bar).
Folegandros–which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek–is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).
Best of the Greek islands for: Character and lush landscapes
Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British, and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris’s Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at Salto, an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.
With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls Tuscany—but with some of the best beaches in Europe. The smart set stay on Corfu’s north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It’s wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula’s is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the ‘delectable landscape’ that Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s–now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells. Or venture inland to Ambelonas, an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specializes in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos–unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.
Best of the Greek islands for: Endless sandy beaches
Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots–useless for farming–to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island’s scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.
Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands.”
Best of the Greek islands for: Laidback family holidays
Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet Captain Corelli’s Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island’s pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can’t face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages–Assos and Fiskardo–didn’t make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkeling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.
Best of the Greek islands for: Walking trails and wild beaches
Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a converted slaughterhouse, sublime sundresses and sandals at Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.
Best of the Greek islands for: Naturists and purists
The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in August, you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbor, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.
In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at Stou Stratou, pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at Kerameio, and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.
Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels
Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is Scorpios, a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza’s finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it’s always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O’, overlooking Super Paradise beach.
If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki’s, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).
Best of the Greek islands for: Seaside holidays with toddlers or teens
Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece’s greenest islands. It’s not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.
The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. (Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.) Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at Alesta on cute St Mark’s Square.
Best of the Greek islands for: Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces
It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from Athens. When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbor lined with great little fish tavernas (our favorites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: ‘Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.’
That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers, and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.
With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don’t have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.
Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let. Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.
Best of the Greek islands for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication
One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbor towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favorite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their yachts. Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterized by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to Ben’s Bar, a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.
Best of the Greek islands for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches
Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favorite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.
Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.
Best of the Greek islands for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners
Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer’s hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available–maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat—straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).
From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find Spavento, the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially Ageri. The deep, sheltered harbor town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.
Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas
Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There’s even a village called ‘love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals. Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelized in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.
Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it’s a wonder it isn’t overrun with tourists. The harbor is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There’s a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.
Best of the Greek islands for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas
Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi–an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo’s bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favorite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.
Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There’s no airport and it’s a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let.
Best of the Greek islands for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book
Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic–emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.
As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centered around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewelery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in Athens, Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner cocktails and The Windmill a favorite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.
Best Things to Do in ZakynthosZakynthos, known internationally under the name “Tzante,” or “Phioro Levante,” meaning Flower of the East, is an island with many natural beauties as well as plenty of historical tradition. From Zakynthos’s pine-covered mountains to its rocky shores and impressive sea caves, Zakynthos has plenty of natural beauty. Zakynthos’s culture, on the other hand, extends from everything from its building all the way to is music, which plays a large role in the island’s long history.
Here, we break down the 10 best things to do and see in Zakynthos.
Built in 1708, the church of St. Dionysios is a Venetian-inspired church equipped with a bell tower which is the exact replica of the St. Marks bell tower in Venice! The church is also beautifully situated on the city’s beach. The most famous church on the island, a large festival takes place every year in the city lasting three days starting on August 24th which celebrates the church.
The most famous attraction in all of Zakynthos is Shipwreck Beach, a picturesque beach on the north coast of the island which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! With its clear waters, white sand, and stunning rock formations, along with the famous withered ship on its beach, this is a must-visit attraction.
Another famous attraction on Zakynthos is the Blue Caves. Accessible only by boat, one can sail through stunning caves on deep blue waters and see colors on the caves so impressive you would have to see it believe it.
Gerakas beach is a golden sandy beach which is home to Loggerhead Sea Turtles. The beach is a nesting ground for their babies, and the beach actually closes at 19:00 to leave them in peace. If you visit between May and October, you can actually go and see the hatching of little turtle eggs and see dozens of newborns take to the sea.
Marathonissi island, a small uninhabited island in the bay of Laganas off Zykanthos island, has white sandy beaches, and beautiful turquoise waters. This is also another breeding ground for Loggerhead Sea Turtles.
Greece has been leading the list of sailing world destinations for years. This itinerary, which will take you around the Saronic islands, will help you discover why.
Just an hour from Athens, Aegina is a lovely island with a capital of the same name.
Perdika, the port of Aegina, has beautiful houses with courtyards, stairs sided with flowers, and plenty of delicious fish taverns. If you are lucky, you may even get to see some of the island’s natural inhabitants: wild boar or peacocks! You can also go swimming in the turquoise waters of the Monastery bay! It also has a floating grocery store near the city. Now how often can you see that?
Best for a short day trip, Agistri is a small terrestrial paradise in the Saronic Gulf.
In Agistri, you can find large pine green forests, sandy beaches, and crystal blue waters. Still, there is plenty of nightlife for those who enjoy it. Best for a short day trip, Agistri is a small terrestrial paradise in the Saronic Gulf. Considered the birthplace of entertainment, the theatre, built around 340 to 330 V.C., has perfect acoustics and great beauty thanks to its symmetry.
Methana, a seaside settlement of the Peloponnese, has beautiful beaches and old theatres.
Epidaurus is a place where history and beauty come together in perfect harmony. Famous for its ancient theater, one of the best-preserved in Greece, it’s a site where the past still speaks—literally. The theater’s incredible acoustics allow even a whisper on stage to carry to the very last row, a testament to the ingenuity of its ancient builders.
Poros, also known as the “little Venice” of the Saronic islands, is a tranquil island with many taverns neoclassical buildings, and marinas.
In the evening, there is a very cosmopolitan atmosphere on the island, with plenty of lights, drinks, and music. Chora, the tiny harbor and capital of the island, has its own charm. With neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and its own lagoon, Chora is a must visit town.
Hydra is one of the most beautiful Greek islands that not only has attracted the wealthy, but also famous artists such as Chagall and Picasso.
Hydra is pure magic. The city/port is cosmopolitan yet elegant, with 18th-century mansions, old churches, and wells. Life here moves at a gentle rhythm. Mornings begin with coffee by the water, boats drifting lazily in the port, and sunlight bouncing off whitewashed buildings.
Hydra, donkeys aren’t just transport—they’re part of the island’s soul. Meeting a Hydra donkey is a reminder of the island’s timeless pace.
Porto Heli is a cosmopolitan heaven that has it all, from tasteful villas to renowned luxury resorts.
Overlooking the ruins of an ancient city, Porto Heli is also home to plenty of shops, restaurants, and hotels for you to explore. Porto Heli is one of those places that feels effortlessly luxurious without trying too hard. Tucked along the eastern Peloponnese, it’s a laid-back seaside town known for calm turquoise waters, elegant villas, and sunsets that linger a little longer than expected.
Spetses is one of the top travel destinations for tourists all over the world. You can even ride an old wagon and explore the entire island, passing through the Old Port, Agios Nikolaos, and Dapia!
Spetses is one of the top travel destinations for tourists all over the world. You can even ride an old wagon and explore the entire island, passing through the Old Port, Agios Nikolaos, and Dapia! With narrow streets, traditional architecture, neoclassical houses, pebble gardens, and beautiful balconies, Spetses is an island definitely worth exploring. It is also forbidden in Spetses to drive cars, providing a tranquility you’ll hardly find elsewhere.
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A catamaran trip in the Saronic Islands is more than just a journey—it’s a chance to relax, enjoy the islands, and soak in the beauty around you. As you step back on land for the last time, you take with you the calm of the sea, the glow of golden sunsets, and the feeling that these islands will always stay in your heart.
The 10 Best Things to Do and See in MykonosMykonos is one of, if not the, most famous islands in all of the Aegean Sea. Bright and cosmopolitan, it has been a magnet of high profile guests since the 1960s.
It is no surprise then that it was voted as one of the top holiday destinations to visit. With its amazing beaches, award-winning restaurants, and mythical parties that last all night long, it is a must-visit destination.
The list of celebrities who visit Mykonos is constantly growing: Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Shakira, Lady Gaga, Steven Spielberg, Monica Bellucci, Liam Nisson, Hugh Jackman, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owen, Jean Paul Gotti, Giorgio Armani, Russell Crowe, and many more.
Particularly open to diversity, Mykonos is considered the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and is one of the most popular in the world.
Visit Mykonos Town and marvel at the white cubist architecture which engulfs the island. Mykonos is also home to many old churches and wells. Take a walk through its narrow streets and admire this beautiful city.
Shop in Chora and see the latest collections from brilliant fashion and jewelry designers. You will find plenty of branded clothes and accessories, jewelry, and other fashionable goods.
In Gialos you can see the famous Mycenae Pelicans and visit Aghios Nikolaos town, a town whose town hall was built in 1780!
See “Little Venice” and view tiny cute little houses built in the 18th century that have foundations in the sea! It is said that pirates used to come to this island and use the doorsteps of the houses on the water as miniature planks to make people walk off of. Today, the homes are filled with bars and restaurants.
The other trademark landmark of Mykonos, the Kato Myloi windmills, used to grate greats using the power of the north winds until the beginning of the 20th century! In the evenings, they are lit up with a beautiful glow.
Visit the beautiful quiet and secluded beaches of Agios Sostis, Kapari, and Fokos.
If you like busier beaches, however, visit Psarou, Ornos, Paradise, and Platis Gialos where there are parties all of the time!
See this ledgendary lighthouse which stands on the edge of Phanar. Enjoy stunning views of sunsets as you relax!
Scuba dive and see octopi, starfish, sponges, and maybe even Monachus-Monachus seals! There are many diving centers on the island which offer diving in reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
Visit Rinia and dive into its crystal clear blue waters and spend time relaxing on its beaches.
Visit Delos, what is considered the island of Apollo, the god of light, and visit its archeological sites.
Tradition says that anyone who drinks the water from the wells in the center of the village will never leave the island!
Enjoy!
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10 Amazing things to do in Mykonos IslandIf there is a worldwide renowned Greek island for immaculate beaches and party, that is Mykonos. Nicknamed The island of the winds, Mykonos is much more than sunbathing and clubbing till sunrise.
Located in the south of the Aegean, 150km away from Athens, Mykonos is part of the Cyclades and it forms a regional unit itself which comprises Delos, Rineia and some other inhabited smaller islands. The name Cyclades makes in fact reference to the archipelago encircling Delos, considered a sacred island. Many cultures have stepped on Mykonos and left their traces: Carians, Ionians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Catalans, Ottomans… the island has been the scene of mythological battles, revolutions, decline and flourishment.
Only around 12,000 people live there permanently, most of them in the main city, which is also called Mykonos, or Chora (meaning town in Greek). The island, which is just 86 sq km, has developed a tourism industry that overwhelms its sea-related economy during summer months. It is a place that has succeeded in maintaining its traditions and bringing the past to life in its very cosmopolitan present.
There are plenty of activities that will make you enjoy Mykonos without losing sight of what the island is and has been. Here is a list of 10 wonderful activities to do and other useful information.
How to reach Mykonos From Athens
By plane: there are a couple of flights daily in winter months with Aegean and Olympic airlines. It takes about 40 minutes. From March, other airlines are open with daily flights.
By boat: 3 sailings daily from Rafina. It takes 4h20m and costs around 30€. There are other weekly sailings from the ports of Rafina and Piraeus, some of which are faster but also more expensive (55€ approximately). Operating ferry companies are: Hellenic Seaways, Seajets, Blue Star Ferries and Aegean Speed Lines. Some connections from Rafina do not operate from October to March.
How to reach Mykonos from other islands
There are many ferries that connect daily Mykonos to Tinos, north of Mykonos, Paros and Naxos, the next bigger islands towards the south, and Thira (Santorini), the most southern of the Cyclades. Check further information here.
Mykonos is reachable by plane seasonally from various international destinations.
The raining season lasts from October to March, although winters are mild (average max. 15˚C) and wet, with many days of sun. Temperatures in the summer are usually around the 30˚C but can reach 40˚C. Thanks to the Meltemi, the northern Aegean wind, summers tend to be dry and nice.
It is probably best to visit between April – mid June or September – October, as the weather is still pleasant and everything a lot less crowded. Outside high season, many attractions and places options, so it is a good idea to check opening times of what you plan to visit in advance.
Gorgeous sandy beaches, crystalline waters and beautiful sun lights. With these characteristics, one of the best things to do in Mykonos is to sail the archipelago and embark on a sightseeing tour from the sea. Mykonos is incredibly beautiful, with its 16th century windmills featuring on the hills, defining the landscape of the island, in perfect harmony with the typical white architecture with blue windows and doors. According to Mykonians, the cleaner the white, the more you appreciate the colours next to it.
It is a must to stop at the now deserted island of Rineia or Rhenia, a place rather unknown even to the Greeks. The island was dedicated to Apollo and years later converted to a huge necropolis which was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century. Nowadays, some farmers rent stretches of land to continue with traditional farming methods. Its waters are incredibly blue and a real pleasure to dive in.
Besides freedom and exclusivity, sailing provides much more. It lets you have a different perspective of the islands, discover hidden coves if you prefer to avoid cosmopolitan beaches, stop wherever you want and dive into the pure waters of the Aegean, practice water sports like snorkelling, scuba-diving or fishing, and enjoy beautiful sunsets, undisturbed, in the middle of the sea.
You can find bareboat or skippered catamarans to suit different needs, as well as day cruises or weekly charters. Check them here.
Nightlife is very lively, so partying is a bespoke thing to do in Mykonos. It has become the Ibiza or St. Tropez of the Aegean. World renowned DJs and acclaimed residents meet there every year to light the summer nights of the island. It is not unusual to come across celebrities in the many parties going on.
In Mykonos there are around 30 bars where to start the evening, either in the centre of Chora or tucked away, where you can find more privacy. Those who like to dance the night away will find some 20 clubs rated amongst the best in the world, and if your thing is to dance on the sand in your bathing costume you can do so in probably a dozen beach clubs. There are many options to go out that match different styles, from wild parties with the crème de la crème to quiet cocktails with friends. Mykonos town has the most happening scene in Greece.
Watch out for the many events taking place during summer months. The Mykonos Summer Festival is not to be missed if you like music concerts in the open-air and different arts exhibitions and performances with artists from all around the world. There is also the Gay Festival which takes place in Mykonos every year, and the Harvest Festival, held in mid-September.
As typical in the Mediterranean countries, food plays a big part in the culture. People like to cook and share the table with family and friends while sipping some wine. The gastronomy in Mykonos is rich and a very nice way to get to know the country on another perspective.
There are many typical foods in Mykonos, like tyrovolia, a mild fresh cheese; louza, a meat preserved slightly different from other places in Greece; mostra, a twice-baked bread with kopanisti (a peppery fermented cheese), as well as many traditional dishes with beans, vegetables, lamb, pork, and mouth-watering dishes with fish. Baked things like bread and biscuits have also their particularities in the island and paired with Greek coffee the perfect breakfast is served.
Learning some recipes with locals will open the most intimate side of travelling. It gives the chance to immerse in their culture, get to know the welcoming Mykonians and see what their everyday life is, as well as improving your cooking skills. There are different classes you can find to suit different budgets. If cooking is not your thing, then consider visiting a vineyard and enrol on a wine tasting experience. It will surely be a highlight of your trip.
No trip seems to make sense if the main city is missed. The centre of Mykonos town or Chora is a beautiful labyrinth of narrow passages of cobblestone full of life. Cosy bars, fashion boutiques, traditional jewelleries, churches and the typical white facades of the houses with colourful wooden doors, windows and balconies are a postcard at every corner.
Mavrogenous Square, by the Old Port, is a landmark with its monument to a national heroine who played an important role during the Greek revolution against the Ottoman empire. Follow to Matogianni Street, the shopping artery of Mykonos town for designer boutiques, legendary bars and nice little shops for Greek souvenirs. Tria Pigadia or Three Wells is another landmark in the centre, built in 1722 to provide the town with water.
After window shopping and strolling, head to Little Venice for a sweet end of the day. This waterfront street has captivated many artists who have found inspiration in its beauty and portrayed it in their artworks. The place depicts old fishing houses from the mid-18th century once property of rich merchants and captains, thought to have been pirates for the structure of the homes. Currently, some of these houses are bars and restaurants where you can chill and enjoy a drink while the sun sets reflecting its light on the sea. It is advisable to go early or make a reservation beforehand as it gets busy during peak season.
ust about 8km away from Chora lies this unspoilt little town that will conquer your heart. It is a charming place depicting the typical architecture of the Cyclades with a maze of streets hosting tavernas where to savour local specialties and traditional sweets. What is special about this place is that you can feel the daily life of locals in the relaxed atmosphere they have been able to maintain.
The monastery of Panagia Tourliani is a must-see. Founded in 1542 by two monks and restored in 1767, Panagia Tourliani is now a highlight of Mykonos because of its history and the blessed Icon of Virgin Mary, as it is the Patron Saint of the island and celebrated every 15th of August. This religious monument also played an important role during the German occupation.
The building is simply marvellous. Its whitewashed exterior with the distinctive red dome, marble bell tower and water fountain with sculptured decorations in the yard account for an impressive architecture. The interior is characterised by a wooden baroque altar by Florentine artists and Greek orthodox ornaments. It holds a museum inside which displays interesting religious exhibits.
Visiting Ano Mera and the monastery are one of the best things you can do in Mykonos, especially to get a break from the hustle in the town centre. There are buses going there from the Old Port with the company KTEL, otherwise, taxis or car rentals are other options. The church is open every day from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3.30 pm to 7 pm and the entrance is 1€.
A top attraction in Mykonos is the Agricultural Museum, an open-air place just in the outskirts of Chora. Not only because of its contents, but because part of them are displayed in Boni, a windmill located in Ano Myloi, which means Upper Windmills. It is a chance to visit the inside of an active windmill, which dates back to the 16th century when Venetians dominated the island.
The exhibits in the museum are old machinery and agricultural tools in use before the industrial revolution, so the collection explains how locals would cultivate staples, produce wine, withdraw water and their lifestyle related to the land.
What makes this museum special is stepping inside the windmill, the nice walk from Mykonos town and the incredible views from the top. The main road to get there can be tricky as it is narrow and there is traffic. After the taxi rank in Mavrogenous Square there is an adjacent path with stairs that will quickly take you to the top. From there, the town is revealed offering a spectacular sight that is just worth the uphill.
The Museum is open from 6.30am – 9.30pm Monday to Saturday from April to October and has no admission charge. The Harvest Festival takes place there every second Sunday of September.
Cine MANTO is one of the best places to go to end your day. It gives a very different picture of what is known about Mykonos and looks like a little piece of paradise. The place is a vast garden with palm trees and unique species of flora that will amaze the visitor. Watching a film under the starry Greek sky is definitely something to experience.
The cinema screens two films back to back and offers the possibility to have a meal or drinks at the café and restaurant, which is also a great place for business meetings or just relax in an informal atmosphere away from the frenzy summer in Mykonos.
It opens every day from the 1st of June until the 30th of September and all films are in original version with Greek subtitles. Film running times are 9pm and 11pm and the tickets cost 9€ for adults and 7€ for children. Member cards are available at 70€ for 14 films. The Cine Manto Café Restaurant is open from 10am for breakfast until 2am for the last drinks.
Considered a Multispace, the cultural project behind it organises many different and interesting events such as exhibitions, shows and performances not to be missed.
At the centre of the Cyclades, just south-west of Mykonos, stands one of the most important islands in Greece, mythologically, historically and archaeologically.
Delos was inhabited by Ionians, who attributed it the birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis, children of Zeus and Leto. Mythology says that the island was revealed by Poseidon when Hera, the queen of Mount Olympus, goddess of marriage and birth and jealous wife of Zeus, banned Leto to give birth anywhere. Poseidon, brother of Zeus, pitied her and came to help. Actually, the name Delos means revealed.
The island was a place of pilgrimage for Ionians, hence in order to worship the gods it had to be purified. This meant that nobody had the right to give birth or die on the island. The graves were moved to the neighbouring Rineia. The island maintained a commercial importance and then suffered ups and downs due to wars between Rome and Athens.
It was not until 1872 that the French School of Athens discovered through extensive archaeological excavations how incredibly rich a Mediterranean port it had been. It was declared a World Cultural Heritage site protected by the UNESCO in 1990. There are many landmarks for such a small island (just about 3.50 sq km). Getting there is easy from the Old Port in Mykonos. There are regular ferries that depart at 10 am and cost around 20€ including the entrance fee, or private charters, which are the best option for groups of 6 people or more. Most guided Delos tours are available for about 40€, including ferry and fee. Children under 6 old enter for free. Usually, tours are offered daily in English and in other languages different days a week.
Often wrongly overlooked, visiting the Municipal Library is a top choice when travelling to Mykonos. Located in Ayia Kyriaki Square, this mansion of the 18th century once belonged to the Mavrogenis family. It has history itself on top of what it hosts.
The library is home to ancient coins from the Cyclades and other objects, besides more than 6,000 volumes, a vast majority of which donated by the Mykonian historian Ioannis Meletopoulos from his personal library. Others were donated by other people’s libraries, and most of them are in Greek but there are real treasures amongst them. One example are the books and sketches given by a legendary American artist who moved to Mykonos in 1966, John Ratekin. His paintings, poetry and black and white drawings of the landmarks are unique and fascinating.
Ratekin also wrote the first Tourist Guide to Mykonos, which included some of his works. After him, many other artists arrived to capture its charm. Ratekin’s art is a rare and exceptional occasion to see the island’s evolution to modernity through the eyes of one of the first visitors to fall in love with Mykonos.
No monument is more important in an island like a lighthouse. This 19m tall building was built in 1891 in Fanaris, which means lantern in Greek, in the neighbourhood of Cape Armenistis, 7km away from Mykonos town. It is still functioning and operated by the Hellenic Navy’s Hydrographic Office. It is worth visiting for the views you get from there.
Located on the north-west of the island, its strategic position allows for a wonderful scenery from there. The neighbouring island of Tinos is perfectly visible on clear days. It is a great place to watch the sunset away from the noise in the city centre.
The construction began after a tragic incident at sea, when a British ship sank, and eleven people lost their lives. The original lightning mechanism is displayed at the Aegean Maritime Museum in Mykonos town. It was an award-winning engineering project designed by a French company, but it was replaced by a more modern one in 1983.
Lighthouses are a symbol of guidance and a monument paying tribute to the sea and its people, a sometimes melancholic reminder of the past maritime way of life. Romantic almost by definition, going to Armenistis Lighthouse cannot be missed. To get there, follow the road from Agios Stefanos beach, towards the north of Mykonos Port.
The island of Mykonos is really a gem to be rediscovered. No other place offers more than what is known. Home to so much history, beauty, gastronomy, adventure, romanticism and welcoming locals, Mykonos is a piece of paradise that will amaze your senses.
The 10 Best Things to Do and See in CorfuIf there is a paradise, you will find it in Corfu. With its warm weather, turquoise waters, and gorgeous harbors, Corfu is a must-visit destination. Corfu, also filled with traditional architecture, cosmopolitan beaches, and great mountains, is the perfect destination to taste authentic Greek cuisine, play in its waters, and explore a unique island.
Cosmopolitan yet historic, Corfu has plenty of Venetian-inspired buildings, old fortresses, and other sites reminiscent of Homer’s famous works.
Top 10 Things to Do and See in Corfu
The architecture in the central city of Corfu not only has Venetian influences, but also English and French influences as well. Its main attractions include the Old Fortress, the town hall, Mon Repos villa, and Spianada park, the largest park in all of the Balkans. Moreover, St. Michael and George’s Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings left behind by the British Empire, is also a major attraction. In Corfu, Venetian mansions and building are painted in the traditional color ochre, a natural clay earth pigment with a color ranging from yellow to deep orange to brown. Corfu is so special, that it was actually named a UNESCO world heritage site!
2. See the Liston Monument
The Liston monument is a perfect place for romantic strolls, coffee, or a quick bite. People in Corfu are especially proud of their cuisine. Traditional dishes include “pastitsada,” “sofrito,” and “bourdeto”.
3. Walk the Islet of Blachernae
Probably the most famous attraction in Corfu, Blachernae is the island where the church of the Virgin of Blachernae is located, and is a must-visit destination.
5. Travel to the Natural Cove in Corfu
The natural cove in Corfu is ideal for fishing and/or diving. Add in a boat tour for a special visit to the island of and some delicious seafood.
6. See Palaiokastritsa
The most famous village in Corfu, Palaiokastritsa is a natural paradise famous for its greenery and blue waters. It has six small bays, and is perfect for divers and other watersports enthusiasts. The Achilleon diving center offers unique explorations of Palaiokastritsa’s marine life.
7. Visit the Islands of Othonoi and Ereikoussa
The islands of Othonoi and Ereikoussa are perfect destinations to visit by boat from Corfu. Characterized as small paradises, they are situated at the northwestern tip of Corfu. Shown below is the cave of Calypso, which is home to emerald waters and where, according to legend, the nymph of Calypso detained Odysseus (from Homer’s The Odyssey) for seven years.
8. See the Canal d’Amour
See the Canal d’Amour, a turquoise-colored canal where the wind and water smoothed the rocks to it’s sides, making the canal a famous “work of art” unique to all of Greece and the wider southeastern region of the Mediterranean.
Rovina beach is a small, beautiful, isolated beach hidden in western Corfu. The beach’s shoreline literally collapses into the sea, creating a natural dam on Corfu’s coast. Rovina is considered to be the most beautiful beach in all of Corfu.
Also, be sure to check out Corfu’s many other magnificent beaches, including Sidari beach, Stefanos beach, Kassiopi beach, and Kontokali beach.
10. Visit St. Gordios and Agios Stefanos
These two stunning beaches on the western coast of Corfu are nestled in the roots of lush green mountains and surrounded by golden-colored olive trees.
Enjoy!
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Benefits of Luxury Yacht charterMost charters include a little bit of everything: relaxation on board, fun on land, excursions to places of interest, water sports, shopping and exploring the natural habitat of your destination. If you have any particular interest, be it cultural, gastronomic, sports, or history or nature for example, luxury yacht charter can adapt to your needs in order to offer you the best of what you like the most, but above all it is a unique opportunity to plan the most exceptional vacations you can imagine.
This type of yacht charter let the professionals make this dream come true. Whatever you want to see, any food you want to taste, the sports you want to practice on your own and what beaches, historic buildings and fantastic shops you want to visit, luxury yacht charter can provide everything you want.
Benefits of Luxury Yacht Charter
If you have any other questions about renting a luxury yacht, we’re happy to help.
10 things to do in SantoriniSantorini is not just romantic sunsets, donkey riding and cave suites. The island has much more to offer, especially for discerning travelers. Check what to do and see by visiting one of the most beautiful islands of Greece.
From cozy cafes and original bars to extravagant clubs – Santorini offers a wide range of places where nightlife is vibrant. In Fira, you can have a drink at Franco’s Café Bar, Tropical and Tango Bar – each has a view of the caldera. Those wishing to go wild should visit the famous Koo Club and Mamounia Club.
In the summer there is a series of cultural and artistic events. Among the festivals, deserves Vedema (which means winemaking) taking place in the SantoWines winery on the first Saturday of August and a spectacular show of Ifestia fireworks referring to the volcano eruption in the second half of August. An interesting place is the Santorini Arts Factory (SAF) in Vlyhad, where there are, among others, concerts, dance performances, and educational programs for children are organized.
Akrotiri boasts a neighborhood with some of the most beautiful Santorini beaches, the beautiful La Ponta castle and the legendary Aegean settlement. The archeological site of Akrotiri is one of the most important discoveries of the Mediterranean basin, called the Lost Atlantis.
There are over a dozen vineyards on the island, each of which has its own unique character. Five of them stand out particularly, including Koutsogiannopoulos Winery in Vothonas, where there is a very interesting Wine Museum. On the other hand, in Megalohori, I suggest a visit to Venetsanos Winery, where you can enjoy wine with a view of the Caldera. In the village there is also a traditional, old family vineyard Gavalas Winery, whose owner made sure that his Vinsanto was made in the old style.
Holidays on Santorini is a great opportunity to dive – there are many interesting places worth exploring. These include around the Cape Tripiti near the islet of Thirassia, the wreck of a ship near Palea Kameni and the reef Adiavati near Akrotiri.
Near Oia there is a charming and colorful bay Ammoudi, which is known for its excellent fish taverns, including Dimitris Taverna and Katina Taverna.
This is one of the most popular places on the island, where crowds gather every day to admire the sunset. If you want to find a good place, you should be here well in advance.
It is worth climbing to the highest point of Nea Kameni to enjoy the amazing view of the caldera. In a small bay around Palea Kameni you can immerse yourself in hot springs, which supposedly have healing properties.
The flagship product is cherry tomatoes cultivated on the island for over 150 years. Capers are also excellent in taste, accompanied by the majority of local dishes and sweet white aubergine. The Santorinian cuisine is very diverse. Next to fish and seafood, it is worth trying a fava served with onions, tomatoes and capers (fava pantremeni), deep fried tomato fritters (ntomatokeftedes), grape leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice and onions (dolmadakia), baked omelette with potatoes and vegetables, most often zucchini (sfouggato) and deep fried white eggplant (melitzanes) – preferably when served with grated cheese or dip tzatziki.
An unquestionable attraction number one is a catamaran trip from Crete to Santorini. You have the option of also booking a private 5-hour catamaran cruise, thanks to which you will see the most beautiful landscapes and in the most pleasant way you will spend those few hours of your life.
The Greek islands are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Indeed, the Greek islands have topped countless lists as a top destination around the world. In this itinerary, we lay out for you a plan to go from Athens to Mykonos and see the most spectacular highlights the Greek islands have to offer.
The Athens Riviera is a coastal area in the southernmost suburbs of Athens. On this sailing route, you will find the most cosmopolitan beaches of Athens, including Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi and Varkiza.
Cape Sounion is located 69 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula in Greece. Recently, the wider region of Cape Sounion was declared a national park, and is now protected by the Greek government. Cape Sounion is also home to the ruins of the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in classical Greek mythology. From the ruins, one can view the sunset over the Aegean Sea, a famous and beautiful view that many travel to see.
Kythnos, located in the Western part of the Cyclades, has perhaps the most beautiful beach out of all the Greek islands. This beach, a crescent- shaped isthmus, has extremely fine sand and warm thermal springs at Loutra bay, which are told to have healing properties.
Kythnos also has picturesque villages with cobblestone streets and white houses with blooming flower courtyards. Kythnos is warm, friendly, and simple. Walk through its quiet neighborhoods and dine on fresh food at waterfront tables.
Syros is located 144 kilometers (78 miles) southeast of Athens. Its capital, Ermoupoli, is a neoclassical town and one of the most beautiful settlements you will encounter in the Cyclades. Syros’s Roman quarter is home to the fortress-like St. George’s Cathedral. Go up to the top of the hill the Cathedral sits on, through the narrow streets, past the traditional whitewashed houses, and through the archways and open spaces to catch a breathtaking view of the entire island.
Syros also has beautiful architecture, such as the churches of St. Nicolas the Rich and Dormition of the Mother of God. On the hill that St. George’s Cathedral sits on, also sits the remarkable medieval settlement of Ano Syros, built during 300 AD.
3rd DAY: MYKONOS
The most famous island of the Aegean, Mykonos is bright and cosmopolitan, with exciting nightlife and stunning scenery. With its stunning beaches, award-winning restaurants, endless fantastical parties, and dream villas, it is no wonder Mykonos has been voted one of the top vacation destinations worldwide.
If the Mykonos nightlife scene isn’t for you, don’t worry. Mykonos is also home to the Ano Mera Village, a calm, authentic, and picturesque town home to the historic church Panagia Tourliani as its main attraction.
A very diverse island, Mykonos has become the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and the most popular in the world.
Mykonos is also home to Little Venice, and its houses (which were built in the 18th century) have foundations in the sea! Today they offer bars, restaurants, and stunning views of the Aegean from their balconies.
The other trademark of Mykonos are the Kato Myloi, a series of windmills, that, built by the Venetians in the 16th century, milled flour up until the mid-1900’s. Today, they are home to locals and serve as vaults to numerous Mykonian heritage documents.
Moreover, Mykonos has tons of scuba diving, and its waters are home to some amazing creatures, including octopus, starfish, and Mediterranean monk seals! There are countless companies which offer diving expeditions through reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
4th DAY: MYKONOS – DELOS & RHENIA ISLANDS
Delos is one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece. Dolos is the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis and has been a holy sanctuary for a millennium. Admire beautiful archaeological sites and watch the unique sunset on the island of the god of light, Apollo.
Charter your boat in Rinia, where you can dive into blue waters and cool off in the fresh air. Rinia is a peaceful, almost deserted island where one can recharge and catch a break from all the noise.
Naxos is the largest, most fertile, and self-sufficient island of the Cyclades. In the harbor, one is welcomed by Portara, a large marble frame and an ancient Apollo Temple, along with a view of a medieval castle. The island has a history dating back centuries, unique sights, varying landscapes, and delicious food.
A visit to Naxos is not complete without the exploration of the picturesque countryside and the mountain villages of the island which have been inhabited for centuries.
Naxos was rated the sixth best island in the world and the number two place to visit in Europe according to TripAdvisor, the popular travel site’s, users. It is also described as a critical culinary destination because it produces some of Greece’s most famous exports including many Greek cheeses.
Koufonissia is a well-hidden terrestrial paradise that is also definitely worth visiting. Filled with quiet beaches and caves, Koufonissia is an excellent place for relaxation and time to oneself.
Koufonissia, with its crystal clear waters, has plenty of opportunities for beautiful Mediterranean diving. With dreamy landscapes and tranquil music, Koufonissia is one of the most peaceful places to explore.
6th DAY: PAROS or SIFNOS
Paros also has beaches with crystal clear waters and magnificent beauty Also in Paros however, you’ll discover Byzantine footpaths which which connect traditional villages like Naoussa, a colorful village where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small harbor. Naoussa is also home to exquisite shopping opportunities in the town’s narrow alleyways and fine dining along its shores.
Sifnos combines picturesque views with folk art and tradition. It has many medieval remains and contains 360 churches, for the number of days in a year.
Sifnos is an island famous for its architecture and its beauty. Elegant but simple at the same time, Sifnos is full of stunning, pure beauty.
7th DAY : SERIFOS to ATHENS
Serifos is the ideal place for taking a stroll or stopping into one of its cafes, fish taverns, or pastry shops located next to the sea. Chora, Serifos’s capital city, was built on a rocky hilltop overlooking over the rest of the island, and houses a Venetian castle built in the 15th century. The most beautiful architectural building on Serifos however, is the ancient Hellenistic marble watchtower Aspros Pirgos, or “White Tower.”
Simply put, Serifos has beautiful, simple Cycladic architecture that has remained unchanged for centuries.
With magnificent views, archaeological wonders, and fantastic adventures, you’re sure to love this itinerary which takes sailors to all of the must-see Greek islands.
Enjoy!
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Greek islands: How to choose the right one for your holiday (CNN)(CNN) — Greece’s 1,400 islands — 230 of them inhabited — are one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful assets. From the Ionian, up by Albania in the northwest, to the Dodecanese, near Turkey in the southeast, they offer vacations you can’t get many other places. Each of the island groups has its unique allure, plus some of the most picturesque seascapes on Earth. But for sheer variety in a small radius, proximity to Athens’ ferry port at Piraeus and the best inter-island boat connections, none compete with the Cyclades. We present the top nine islands in and around the Cyclades, each with its marquee attraction (for ferry schedules, check www.gtp.gr or www.greekferries.gr).
The story behind this island is the stuff of legends — in 1600 BC after a volcano erupted and its center collapsed into the sea, it left behind parts of its caldera that today form the island Santorini. The views from pretty much anywhere on this crescent-shaped outcrop are superb. Sheer rock faces are striated in multitudinous shades, villages and towns cling to the tops of cliffs, the caldera is filled with clear deep turquoise water home to the visiting cruise liners. The whitewashed buildings in the main town Fira resemble a fresh blanket of snow atop a mountain.
On the northern tip, at Oia, where the sunsets are outstanding, houses, hotels and churches tumble down the rock walls. Every evening bus loads of tourists descend to watch the sun sink into the Aegean. The scenery is as just impressive at sea level. Red Beach, as the name suggests, has a rust-colored backdrop and Mars-esque boulders, Eros Beach’s eerie hoodoo-like walls would fit right in at a national park in Utah, and Caldera Beach, the only one that faces in toward the caldera, gives visitors a discernible sense of the volcano’s immensity.
Where to stay: Vedema, in the village of Megalochori, doesn’t have a caldera view, but its setting in a small village feels authentic (the town square and village church are a one-minute walk away). The 45 rooms have views of the village homes or the surrounding rolling vineyards. If a vista of the caldera is key, check in to sister property Mystique. Set in Oia, it has a secret wine cellar, and its 22 cave-style rooms are terraced into the cliff face, providing that classic Santorini experience.
Vedema, Megalochori, 84700, Santorini; +30 22860 81796; doubles from $320
Mystique, Oia, 84702, Santorini; +30 22860 71114; doubles from $470
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Mykonos is Greece’s answer to Ibiza, but without the attitude and posturing. Either side of the summer season Mykonos resembles another low-key beach destination but come July and August, night owls arrive in droves, and the main streets of Mykonos Town are packed with revelers — even revelers with babies strapped into carriers. At times the narrow alleys are so jammed with bodies the only way to move is en masse with the crowd as it sways through the streets in a singular motion.
In true Greek style, nothing here starts until late, though you can party in the daytime with 20-something Italians at Super Paradise beach. A popular start is to have drinks at sunset at the Sea Breeze Cocktail Bar in Little Venice, snagging a table up the steps for the best views. Across the island at Kalo Livadi you can find an unfussy beach where the new Nice n Easy bio-restaurant has fantastic organic fare at reasonable prices (the pasta with sharp kopanisti cheese is excellent).
Back in town, Jackie O’ is a lively waterfront bar that draws the gay crowd, Agyra Bar has attractive, hard-bodied staff from Athens and at the always packed Rock ‘n’ Roll, where local and tourists are evenly split, the bartender blows a whistle before doling out oxygen shots.My personal favorite is the bar/club Caprice, where all are united in their mission to just have fun, no judgments, no agenda; the barmen are as much into the music and dancing as the customers (they’ll readily pour free shots of jelly liqueur). Tip: At Caprice, many a first-timer falls into the area where the bar stools are, set one step down from the rest of the floor, so tread carefully.
Where to stay: Hotel Kivotos, on Ornos Bay, is removed from the hubbub, set on a hill with steps down to a peaceful rocky beach, and is an ideal refuge to refuel and recharge. The cool rooms have clear Lucite chairs, LED lights in the floors (sounds tacky, but looks appropriately festive), a pool with a small circular bar, and most importantly, an energetic, attractive young staff that will give you the scoop on the best night spots.
Hotel Kivotos, Ornos Bay, 84600, Mykonos; +30 22890 24094; doubles from $590
The largest island in the Cyclades has a string of swoon-worthy beaches on its west coast, a Venetian castle in its main town, some interesting ruins and great local produce and dairy. But what sets it apart from the other islands are its traditional villages. When you leave Chora, where the ferries berth, the pull of village life is evident — note the sign at the outskirts of town that simply reads “Villages.” There are 46 of them on Naxos, some miniscule, but all a window into traditional life.
Each has a bakery or cafe, a village square where old men with sun-creased faces sit around on tables drinking coffee and trading stories and an immaculately preserved church or two. The hamlets are tucked among the hills and the switchback road that crisscrosses the island. Kinidaros is famous for its bakery (the best on the island, the oven fired by wood) and musicians; Chalki has the excellent artisanal jam shop Era; locals come to the cobble-stoned streets of Apeiranthos to eat the crepes at Samardako; Keramoti sits in a valley, seemingly cut off from civilization, but it’s also the base for hikes to Routsouna waterfall. Since most tourists don’t venture inland, the villages haven’t succumbed to money-grabbing gimmicks.
Where to stay: Set away from the coast, Naxian Collection has good views of Chora, a handful of typical Cycladic white cubist villas with private pools, an on-site organic garden with fresh strawberries and breakfasts large enough to keep you going all day. The likeable owner Ioannis Margaritis was born and raised on the island, so he knows everything about, and everyone on, Naxos — literally. If you’re lucky, he’ll take you to a barbecue at his friend’s house in one of the villages.
Naxian Collection, Stelida, Naxos; +30 22850 24300; doubles from $325
The constant wind on Paros is evident as the ferry approaches the island — you can see giant turbine fans steadily cartwheeling on the north coast. While Paros might be as cosmopolitan at Mykonos (without the Louis Vuitton and Diesel stores) and pretty enough to attract Hollywood royalty (Tom Hanks purchased a house in the neighborhood, on sister island Andiparos), the real draw here is the force of nature. During the summer, the Meltemi winds blaze down through the Aegean, supplying welcome breezes for beachgoers, but also creating conditions ripe for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The winds peak in intensity during July and August; the five-mile channel that divides Paros from its neighbor Naxos funnels the Meltemi to glorious effect.
The main beaches for the sports are Pounda on the west of the island and Santa Maria, Golden Beach (Chryssi Akti), and New Golden Beach (Nea Chryssi Akti) on the east (New Golden Beach’s winds are so reliable that The Professional Windsurfers Association held its World Cup there for six consecutive years in the 1990s). For newbies, mornings are the best time to learn, when the wind is steady but tame. By early afternoon, when the gusts pick up and continue till dusk, pro boarders and windsurfers skim and bounce along the water. Established operators include Paros Kite Pro Center, Force 7 Paros, and Paros Surf Club. Visitors should time their visit around the island’s most important festivity, on August 15, celebrating the Virgin Mary’s ascension to heaven and culminating in a giant fireworks display mounted on boats in the bay of the port town Parikia.
Where to stay: Poseidon of Paros mixes whitewashed Cycladic architecture with flagstone walls, and is strategically poised between Golden and New Golden beaches (you’ll see windsurfers shredding the water during afternoon drinks). The place also does a steady business with weddings.
Poseidon, Golden Beach, 84400, Paros; +30 22840 42650; doubles from $130
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Every islander has their favorite beach, but none of the Cyclades promises the number and diversity of beaches as volcanic Milos. Some have white sand, some black, some are rocky, others offer the satisfying sensation of crushed shells underfoot, with water ranging from emerald to aquamarine to cobalt blue. With a heavily indented coastline (on a map Milos resembles a mutated crab) and pretty little coves at every turn, Milos has about 80 fine beaches, many only accessible by boat. While each has its charm, some should not be missed. Sarakiniko, a beach of brilliant white pumice, looks truly otherworldly (many liken it to the moon). The three beaches of Paliochori are cupped by towering rock formations, its pebbles are multicolored and the sea water has warm pockets where it’s fed by hot underwater mineral springs.
The small Tzigrado beach is flanked by headlands, and can only be accessed by boat or by a ladder down the cliffs. A cave borders the even tinier Papafragas beach, while the rock walls that enclose it give the water the appearance of a river starting in the sand. At Paliorema beach you can wander around an abandoned sulfur mine plant, see the wagons used to transport the chemical and look for sulfur crystals growing among the rocks.
Where to stay: Since visitors will likely camp down at a different beach every day, it makes sense to stay close to the main port of Adamas where taxis and boats are easy to organize. Villa Notos has simple rooms in Cycladic colors of blue and white (some have terraces), Greek-made Korres toiletries, pretty views of Adamas Bay and is within walking distance of the town’s restaurants.
Villa Notos, Adamas, 84801, Milos; +30 22870 28200; doubles from $52
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This rugged, wing-shaped island on the cusp of the Cyclades and named for Icarus — the son of Daedalus who fled from Crete, got too close to the sun and tumbled into the sea just offshore — has gained fame for the longevity of its residents. Their diet, strong community and daily exercise mean Ikarian men are four times as likely as American men to reach the age of 90, according to a study by the University of Athens Medical School. The 99-square mile island is basically one large mountain, peaking in the central Pramnos-Atheras range. For such a small area, the geographic variation is astounding — Ikaria has rivers and tiny lakes, high forests of pine and oak, and hills at every turn that combine to make Ikaria an Elysian Field for outdoor buffs.
Ikaria’s network of mountain paths known as monopatia is an informal web of routes that connects villages. The hiking guide “Round of Rahes on Foot,” published by the local municipalities, details tracks and trails on the west of the island and also maps out a 15-mile tour along monopatia through the hills and villages of northwest Ikaria. The trek brings hikers through farmland, bush, forest, past lakes, along donkey tracks, skirting goat herds and introduces visitors to the unhurried pace and uncomplicated nature of Ikarian life (this is an island where bakeries use the honor system).
After a hard day of tramping, trekkers can rejuvenate aching muscles at the mineral bath houses of Therma (whose waters, according to the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, have the highest concentration of the therapeutic element radon in Greece), or look for the steam rising from various spots around the coast like Lefkada, where heated water emits and joins the Aegean.
Where to stay: Fittingly Villa Dimitri has studio rooms and apartments terraced into a hillside near Armenitis, the steps an ideal preparation for the walks and inclines ahead. Whitewashed rooms have private terraces and views of the Aegean.
Villa Dimitri, Armenistis, 83301; Ikaria; 30-22750-71310; doubles from $55
Photos: Ikaria, the Greek Island where people forget to die
Actually two islands, Kato and Ano (meaning lower and upper) Koufonisia, with the former almost uninhabited, are like a land that tourism forgot, mainly because the quickest ferry from Athens takes six hours. Home to only a few hundred residents, Ano Koufonisi is tiny, just 2.2 square miles, so walking or cycling round the island are the most efficient modes of getting about. The main industry, apart from the creeping reach of tourism, is fishing, and the main town of Chora retains the feel of an untouched fishing village, with small boats bobbing in the harbor. There’s not a whole lot to do here, but that’s the idea. You can hire a caique (traditional wooden boat) for a trip to the nearby island of Keros, where examples of early Cycladic figurines have been carefully excavated. Otherwise life settles into a slow rhythm of going to beaches like Finikias, Platia Pounta, Fanos and the naturist-friendly Pori, taking a caique trip to the deserted strands of sand on Kato Koufonisia, or visiting the churches of Agios Nikolaos, Profitis Ilias, and Agios Georgios,
Where to stay: The white-on-white Aeolos Hotel is close to the port, has bright rooms with flashes of pastel color, and a decent pool ringed by stone tiles.
Aeolos Hotel, Koufonisia; +30 22850 74296; doubles from $130
Santorini is often the go-to island for couples in these parts, but another Cycladian island where houses perch on clifftops is an even better escape for lovebirds. The mountainous, mostly treeless Folegandros doesn’t get the crowds of the islands around it thanks to sparser ferry service, a boon for twosomes in search of some solitude with their sun and sand. The main village of the island, Chora, set on a cliff plateau 650 feet up, embodies the archetypal image of Cycladic buildings of small white houses with blue doors lining cobblestoned street.
The Kastro, the Venetian part of Chora, is well preserved while the majority of the island appears as it has for centuries, devoid of buildings in favor of open landscapes. Donkeys remain a widely used means of transportation and goats scramble up and down the sun-baked hills. Painters and writers from Europe come to Folegandros for quiet inspiration and the most enduring memories of a visit here are the silence and the bays with crystal clear water. The one not-to-be-missed site is the northeastern cave of Chrysopelia, where ancient names are written in clay into the walls, a custom from the Hellenistic Period.
Where to stay: In the port village of Karavostasis, Anemi Hotel has a gorgeous infinity pool and a clutch of two-story buildings with rooms that have modern furnishings and exposed wood beams. It also accepts pets.
Anemi Hotel, Karavostasis, 84011, Folegandros; +30 22860 41610; doubles from $340
A 90-minute high-speed catamaran ride from Santorini, Crete is Greece’s Wild West, where the locals are fiercely independent and have a fondness for guns (used, I’m assured, only to shoot at street signs or into the air during festivities). Its 3,200 square miles are blessed with scores of microclimates, fertile soil and crops that haven’t succumbed to the scourge of industrial farming. Which means that the tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, strawberries, watermelon and other fruits and vegetables that grow here taste as nature intended. The topography of central mountains ringed by shimmering coastline allows two growing seasons — lower elevations in the winter, higher elevations in the summer — and Crete is a hub for olive oil, cheese and wine production. Eat at a traditional taverna (even a touristy one) or kafenio (Greek café) and you’d be hard pushed to have a bad meal because the raw ingredients are so darned good.
Elounda, on the island’s northeast coast, is surrounded by some of the island’s great agricultural areas, like the Lasithi plateau, has a selection of hotels for all budgets, and some excellent examples of what makes Greek mainlanders sigh when they think of the divine freshness of Crete’s cuisine.Ergospasio Restaurant, a former old stone carob factory, serves just-caught seafood overlooking Elounda harbor. The Ferryman Taverna is a local favorite, and for reason — the mezes make great use of Crete’s agricultural bounty. Manolis Kafeneion on the main square is a great spot to share meze and raki (a fiery alcoholic drink made with grapes that locals drink after a meal) with Cretans.
Where to stay: The Blue Palace, just beyond Elounda, has spellbinding views of the Venetian-fortress-turned-leper-colony Spinalonga from its rooms, restaurants and beach. Its Blue Door restaurant does an expert job of recreating an authentic Greek taverna with flavors to match
Blue Palace Resort and Spa, Elounda, 72053, Crete; +30 28410 65500; doubles from $300
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This article was originally published in August 2013. Check with hotels and other services before you make your travel plans.
National Geographic: Sailing the Greek Isles (Suggested Itinerary)
Sprinkled across the Aegean Sea and steeped in ancient mythology, the Cyclades are some of the most spectacular of Greece’s many isles. Here, fishing boats cast colorful reflections in azure waters, whitewashed villages cascade down lavender-dusted slopes, and craggy headlands are punctuated by ancient ruins.
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Discover the magnificent ruins in the ancient sanctuary of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Ride a donkey or cable car down a cliff side to the harbor on beautiful Santoríni.
Soak up the lively culture, mythology, and Venetian legacy of age-old villages.
Explore the Cyclades under full sail aboard the historic square-rigger Sea Cloud..
Depart on an overnight flight to Athens. After some time at leisure and lunch in the city, travel to Piraeus and settle into your cabin. Cast off this afternoon, and take in our first Grecian sunset at sea.
Our first morning on board is spent at sea. We may stop for a late morning swim before visiting the island of Sifnos. Distinguished for its pottery and its Venetian dovecotes, Sifnos is a rugged island with a harbor village and a beautiful upper chora (village), waterfront tavernas and convenient beaches. It’s a great island for walkers or loungers alike. This afternoon, find a spot on deck to watch as the Sea Cloud’s sails are hoisted up their impressive masts by hand as we set sail for the Cyclades.
Drop anchor at beautiful Tinos, dotted with villages steeped in Venetian history. The island’s Venetian-era dovecotes, terraced hillsides, and green marble quarries have long made this a haven for artists. Explore the picturesque village of Pyrgos, adorned with carved marble facades, and visit the church of Panagia Evangelistria, where thousands of pilgrims come every year to pray at Greece’s holiest shrine.
The tiny archaeological gem of Delos is the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt; and Apollo, god of healing, music, and light. Spend the morning discovering the island’s incredible ruins, including the Terrace of the Lions and the exquisite Temple of Apollo.
Drop anchor at Amorgos, the easternmost isle of the Cyclades. Visit the main city, perched in the mountains, and see its beautiful domed churches and windmills. Explore the dazzling white monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, clinging to a cliff face above the sea. Later, return to the yacht and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
Incomparable Santoríni is an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted in the second millennium B.C., burying the island’s Minoan culture in ash. Sail into the caldera, and drive through windswept vineyards to the beautiful town of Oia. Set high on a cliff, Oia affords unrivaled views of the caldera below. After lunch, ride a donkey or a cable car down the cliff side back to the ship.
Enjoy a glorious day of sailing among the evocative isles of the Cyclades. Relax on deck with a book, observe the crew as they man the rigging and trim the sails, and attend presentations by our team of experts on the area’s history and ecology. In the late afternoon, we may have a chance for an impromptu stop and a swim.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight.
