Island Hopping in Greece

The best destinations for island hopping in Greece

Island hopping in Greece is without doubt an ideal vacation for every type of holiday goer, whether you are looking to soak up the culture, or to explore the beautiful coastline. Greece’s 6,000 islands make the country a prime destination for both amateur and professional sailors.

Discover some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Mediterranean by boat. This guide will give you some inspiration and insights into some of the best destinations in the Greek Cyclades to visit.

Return to traditional Greece, welcome to the Cyclades

Spending a few days sailing in this region will let you return to the old Greece. Whether in Santorini, Los or Folegandros, you’ll experience the best of Greece; the traditional architecture, the small fishing ports and the irresistible charm of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Santorini

The idyllic island of Santorini is instantly recognizable by its whitewashed buildings with blue tops. The landscape of this old volcanic island is truly dazzling – towering cliffs matched with vibrant colors and with its reputation for stunning panoramic views, it’s no wonder that Santorini is so high up on traveler’s lists of must-see places.

One of the most scenic hikes the island has to offer is the Fira to Oia trail, allowing visitors breathtaking views of the famous volcano, island villages and the Aegean Sea. In Oia, you can see one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Find a place to stop at Amoudi Bay and enjoy the view.

Naxos and Amorgos

Naxos and Amorgos are more peaceful and preserved than the majority of the other islands in the Cyclades. Paradise beaches, green landscapes … it is difficult to leave.

Naxos is the biggest and greenest island in the Cyclades with high mountains and fertile land.

On the island of Naxos, the locals wear their traditional dresses and live off the crops of the land. The island offers old churches, monasteries and Venetian castles in a peaceful environment. Naxos is famous for its cultural events and traditional fares such as the Naxos Festival, Wine Festival and Fisherman’s Feast. Here, you can soak up the rich culture or take a step back in time and wander the winding streets of the Old Town.

Take a day trip to the neighboring Amorgos to see a more peaceful, less touristic side to the islands.

Paros and Antiparos

A bit more off the tourist beaten track, Paros and Antiparos are must-see destinations when island hopping in Greece. They offer a combination of both the cosmopolitan and traditional sides of Greece. Both destinations have a buzzing city center, but also very beautiful beaches and sites to visit.

The bayside capital of Parikia is a transport hub for the Cyclades area. Here, you can also visit the Panagia Ekatontapiliana – the landmark Byzantine Church.

Be sure to take a day trip to neighboring Antiparos, with its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere.

Mykonos

Located almost in the center of the Cyclades, Mykonos has become over the years one of the most popular clubbing destinations in Europe and is famous for its nightlife and beautiful beaches.

Enjoy the sun and sands on Paradise Beach, a popular destination with tourists. Away from the beach, take a trip to Chora where you can explore the Panagia Paraportiani Church. The Chora area is famously known as one of the most beautiful places on the island.