For dreamy blue waters and soul-healing sun, nothing compares to the Greek islands, and the Cycladic islands are among the very best.
The Cycladic archipelago in the southern Aegean comprises about 220 islands. Many of these islands are uninhabited, but twenty of them are popular holiday destinations, and several in this beautiful island group are among the most popular Greek islands of all, attracting millions of visitors every year.
The Cyclades islands are the most popular group of Aegean islands, and one of the main reasons is the undeniable beauty of each island. Santorini and Mykonos are the busiest, with Paros, Naxos, and Ios also extremely popular.
However, there are quieter islands in the group that cater to everyone’s preferences. All the islands have gorgeous beaches, good water sports, and pretty villages, each with its own character and culinary specialties.
If you love an action-packed vacation with plenty of nightlife, visiting any of the main Cycladic islands in high season is ideal. But if you prefer a slower-paced and more relaxing getaway, spring or autumn would be perfect.
The Greek islands in springtime are truly magnificent, with carpets of wildflowers blossoming everywhere and many migrating birds to spot. The Orthodox Easter is the largest festival on the calendar, and visitors are invited to join in the fun. The mellow days of autumn are wonderful too, with cooler sun and the warmest sea temperatures.
Winters in the Greek islands are mild and sometimes rainy, but still fun. Many smaller islands are only open for the summer season, but Santorini, Mykonos, Sifnos, Paros, Naxos, and Syros can all be visited in the winter months.
Here are five Cycladean islands to consider for your next Greek vacation:
1. Santorini (Thira)
This stunningly beautiful Cycladic island is one of the most popular Greek islands of all. The island is an extinct volcano, and the crater can still be seen, known as the Caldera, filled with sea and sheer white cliffs.
Santorini’s capital town Thira (sometimes spelled Fira) and other villages dramatically perch along the cliffs with white-washed Cycladic architecture and blue-domed roofs of the Orthodox churches, offering a memorable sunset experience, especially from Oia with its spectacular views.
The island has a rich history spanning more than 4,000 years, and the ancient city of Akrotiri is a fascinating archaeological site buried in volcanic ash. The beaches on the island are unique, formed from volcanic ash, with one close to Akrotiri famously called ‘The Red Beach.’
There’s plenty to do on Santorini, including visiting award-winning wineries, boat trips around the Caldera to the sulphurous springs, and various water sports. Santorini is easily accessible from many European regional airports as it has its own airport.
2. Mykonos
If you enjoy a dynamic nightlife, the Cycladic island of Mykonos is definitely for you, with numerous nightclubs featuring top DJs from Europe. If you prefer things a little quieter, the best time to visit is in the spring when wildflowers carpet the island or in autumn when the temperature has dropped and the crowds have thinned.
Mykonos has plenty of history, and a highlight for many is the boat trip to nearby Delos, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site. Along with over 30 lovely beaches, there are plenty of fun activities, including various water sports and mountain biking routes. Mykonos town with its row of windmills and ‘Little Venice’ is perfect for exploring local cuisine and watching the sunset. Mykonos has an international airport.
3. Paros
For extreme sports fans, Paros is a great choice, especially for world-class kitesurfing events. The island boasts great beaches, some only accessible by fishing boat, adding to the adventure. The beach at Kolymbithres is particularly amazing, resembling a lunar landscape with bright turquoise waters.
Parikia, the capital town, has churches, museums, and traditional Cycladic cubic architecture, including the Panayia Ekatonapiliani monastery. Naoussa, the second-largest town, offers pretty little ports, traditional architecture, shopping, and excellent seafood restaurants. Paros Park is a great place to visit with environmentally aware activities. All water sports are available on Paros, along with good hiking, cycling routes, and boat trips to other islands. Paros has its own international airport.
4. Tinos
This delightful island is the third largest in the Cyclades, situated very close to Mykonos, yet not as well-known. Tinos boasts a varied landscape with mountains dotted with more than 30 traditional villages, such as Agapi, Kardiani, Pyrgos, Volax, and Ysternia.
Tinos is nicknamed ‘the island of birds’ due to its numerous dovecotes and pigeon houses. The island was known for its beautiful marble, which can still be seen in many places. Tinos is a religious island and a place of pilgrimage, with Our Lady of Tinos as its most important church, located in Chora, the main town.
The island offers a variety of beaches, some secluded coves, water sports, good hiking, and opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering. Tinos does not have an international airport, but ferries are available from Rafina (near Athens) and other islands.
5. Schinoussa
Schinoussa is a small flat Cycladic island lying between Naxos and Amorgos with just over 250 residents, most of whom live in the main village of Chora or the second village of Messaria, both displaying distinctive Cycladic architecture.
Despite its size, Schinoussa is surprisingly sophisticated, attracting numerous luxury yachts each year. The island offers the perfect beach holiday with numerous beaches and small coves. In summer, it can get strong Meltimi winds from the north, so finding a good beach on the south, east, or west coasts is advisable.
The islanders spend their days farming or fishing, and the local food, including dishes made with fava beans and the island’s cheese, is excellent. Schinoussa is also known for its fleur de sel. Access to Schinoussa is by ferry, with regular service from Piraeus, which also stops at Naxos.
Choosing one of the Cycladic islands for your vacation ensures a very special and memorable time, with the opportunity to island-hop and be warmly welcomed by the islanders with a big smile—Kalimera! And as they raise their glass to you, Stin Yeia Mas—good health to you!
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