Islands hopping in the Greek Cyclades is a popular activity for both locals and tourists due to affordable and wide spread car & passengers ferry connections between islands. Usually there are many big multi-floor cruise liners with variety of cabin options, deck seats, VIP-lounges, restaurants, bars, shops and car garage onboard.
From the islands of Santorini and Mykonos to the islands of Paros and Naxos, each of them offers something unique and different. With beautifula beaches, cozy bays, crystal clear waters and stunning landscapes, the Cyclades is a paradise for anyone who loves the sea and mountains. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or an adventurous break, you can definitely find both of it on the beautiful Cyclades islands.
Island hopping is a fun way to spend time and see more in Greece and it’s so easy here even with the car, choosing different options on the ferries from deck seat to cabin with the window and business lounge. Cyclades is really nice authentic region to discover with such islands, as Naxos, Paros, Amorgos, Mykonos, Santorini and so much more! It’s very easy to book a ferry online with such great service, as ferryhopper.com
Feel free to use it here.
The most popular islands to visit are Santorini and Mykonos, but there are plenty of lesser known hidden wonderful gems to explore too. From the picturesque cliffs and yoga rethreats on Amorgos to the active watersports and vibrant nightlife of Paros and Naxos, each island offers something different. Whichever island you choose to visit, you’ll be sure to find plenty of activities. From swimming and snorkeling to hiking, sailing and kitesurfing, the Cyclades islands are full of adventurous routes and calm bays.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an active adventure, island hopping in the Cyclades is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Greece. With its stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and vibrant culture.
Santorini
The island of Santorini is a magical place. From the moment you arrive, you can feel the enchanting atmosphere and the welcoming spirit of its people. Santorini is an island located in the Aegean Sea, in the Cyclades archipelago of Greece. It is renowned for its breathtaking views, its stunning sunsets, and its beautiful white, red and black sand beaches. The island’s history dates back to the Minoan period, and its town, Oia, is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the island’s ancient ruins, as well as its picturesque villages, which feature traditional architecture and vibrant colors. The island also offers a range of activities, from water sports to wine tasting, and is known for its excellent seafood. With its unique culture and stunning natural beauty, Santorini is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Greece.
To watch the most beautiful Sunset in your life
It’s the best to meet a sunset here in the beautiful unique fairy tail town – Oia. There are plenty of hotels with pools and hot tubs on the cliff, gourgeous viewpoints and restaurants with amazing suset views.
To explore unique Oia town
It’s a unique town on the top of the cliff with really special vibes. The most narrow streets with hundreds of stairs and gourgeous views. Variety of hotels for any taste, restaurants, bars, cozy shops, castles, churches and museums will leave you a tonn of positive memories.
Visit Santorini Wine Museum
Beautiful vibrant place with rich history, big territory and underground tunnels. The entrance includes audio excursion with individual earphones and local wine degustation. It’s worth to visit.
White Beach
White Beach is a picturesque secluded location with amazing white cliffs, grey sand and beautiful turquoise water, available to reach by the boat, which is coursing all day long between red, white and black beaches.
Red Beach
Stunning unique beach, formed by volcano with red cliffes and red sand. Pretty impressive combination with blue turquoise crystal-clear water. Snorkeling is highly recommended here due to really interestin underwater world with rock formations.
Black Beach
There are several beaches on Santorini with the black sand, but one of the most beautiful of them is Kamari beach on the East of the island. There are cozy beach bars, sunbeds and calm beautiful water to spend a relaxing beach day in comfort.
Amorgos
The island is known for its stunning landscapes of rolling hills and rugged cliffs, as well as its crystal clear waters. Amorgos is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, as it is relatively untouched by mass tourism. There are numerous beaches to explore, as well as ancient archaeological sites, unique cliff monasteries and churches. The traditional Greek food is also a highlight here, so it’s well worth sampling the local cuisine. Amorgos is a great destination for anyone looking to relax and soak up the culture of the Greek islands.
To discover magical cliffs vith gorgeous views
The first thing you discover, which is special for this island – its amazing cliffs and high located roads facing fascinating views on the cliffs and the sea. Especially in the wild South part of the island.
To explore picturesque Aegiali Bay
Beautiful bay, surrounded by high impressive mountains and authentic beautiful local villages – it’s a place to be. Aegialis Hotel & Spa, located on the top of the hill, opens up gourgeus views to the beach with its amazing facilities for yoga rethreats with unforgettable views from restaurant, swimming pool, bar and SPA services.
Visit Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery
Amazing place with special energy and fascinating views – a white ancient monastery, built in 1017 is growing up from the cliff 300m above sea level. It was created as a poem to the Grace of Panagia, known, as the Virgin Mary, which is a saint protector of the island.
The monastery is 40m high with a labyrinth interior and breathtaking views from the windows.
Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery is a truthfully impressive place with its historical, spiritual, and architectural meanings.
Relax on beautiful Paradisia Beach
Paradisia is a secluded beach, located in the South of Amorgos. It’s surrounded by small cliffs and has transparent light blue water. Perfect place for relaxation, snorkeling, and swimming.
Antiparos
Wonderful island with amazing views in the middle of the Cyclades with gorgeous nature around. It’s surrounded by many other islands, that create truly magical landscapes. It’s a pretty calm place with many private villas for rent, several restaurants, and beautiful hiking paths. There are many villas of Hollywood stars, that are hiding from popular crowded touristic destinations.
Volcanic stone beaches
look like underwater world corals. They are called “tafoni” in Greek and are old unique rocky formations, made by the weather and wind. The whole beach on the south of Antiparos is covered by them and it is worth seeing it. It’s marked, as “Ubini rocks” on Google Maps. There are many beautiful beaches to relax in around the southern area and a small cute Virgin Mary Holy Capel.
Agios Georgios
is a picturesque beautiful green area of the island with private villas and calm sandy beaches around. There are wonderful hikes across nature and one of the best restaurants on the island with fresh fish, called Captain Pipinos, right by the water. You can see many other Greek islands from the top of the hill here.
For the perfect stay on this island, I would recommend choosing this stylish villa with a gorgeous unique view and private swimming pool. This place is perfect, for personal stay, so for organized yoga retreats. Villa is separated into different size places – you can choose between the biggest main villa, private small ones, or even stay at the 2-floors windmill, which is pretty cool.
Villa is situated in the best spot in the Agios Georgios area, on the top of the hill with amazing views of the sea and surrounded by 6 other islands. Several virgin nature hiking routes are accessible right from the door. Infinity pools add a truly luxury note to the overall beauty.
This fascinating villa can be easily booked on Booking.com to make your journey to Antiparos a special one.
The Cave of Agios Ioannis
It’s the only vertical cave in the whole of Europe, 85 meters in depth. There is also the oldest stalactite in Europe, aged 45 million years. This cave was visited by Alexander the Great, the French Ambassador in 1673, King Otto, and the lyric poet Archilochus of Paros. There are also two beautiful little churches near the entrance.
Amazing grottoes in the sea
Antiparos is full of amazing beautiful grottoes in the sea and caves, which makes it exciting to discover the island from the water. The grottoes can be accessed by boat, sailboat, SUPs, or kayak. The Discovery of these natural beauties with clean turquoise waters will make the journey to Antiparos unforgettable.
Main town Antiparos
Antiparos is a cozy small town with cute streets, shops, and restaurants. Here is the main port, where the ferry from Paros comes mostly every half an hour. There are also some churches, windmills, an old castle, and a marina with boats.
Naxos
Naxos is the biggest island of the Cyclades, which combines beautiful beaches, untouched mountains, authentic Greek villages, and one of the most popular kitesurfing and windsurfing spots in Greece. It has calm relaxing bays, some interesting cliffs, and wonderful sunset spots. Naxos is a popular holiday destination for visitors from around the world. It has a wide range of attractions, from its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters to the traditional villages and monuments. The island is also home to many ancient sites, including the famous Temple of Apollo and the Portara, a marble gateway that is said to be the entrance to the temple. The island is known for its vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of activities to enjoy during the day, including hiking and water sports. Visitors can also explore the island’s many traditional villages and explore historic sites. The cuisine of Naxos is also worth exploring. The island is well-known for its seafood, with many restaurants serving up delicious dishes such as grilled octopus, stuffed vine leaves, and grilled sardines.
Relax on the beautiful Plaka Beach
Plaka Beach is a long stretch of white sand, with crystal clear waters and a stunning view of the Aegean Sea. The beach is quite shallow, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports equipment can be rented from beachfront cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for relaxation.
Discover Mikri Vigla Beach with its beautiful rock formations
Mikri Vigla Beach is an ideal spot for watersports. The beach is well-known for its windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions, and it’s also a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving on non-windy days. The beach is well-equipped with rental shops for all your watersports needs, and you can also find instructors that can teach you the basics.
Dive into the magical mountains of Naxos
Naxos is a wonderful mountainous island. Driving around it is magic with surrounding breathtaking views. There are marble mountains, where the marble is taken from for manufacturing and it’s an amazing thing to see. There are great hiking trails to discover for sure, so that’s the place to go.
Explore the authentic Apeiranthos village
The village is located on the slopes of a hill and is surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and orchards. The village has an old-world charm and is a popular spot for tourists. There are a few restaurants and cafes in the village, as well as a few traditional taverns. The main attraction in Apeiranthos is the Archaeological Museum which houses artifacts from the ancient city of Naxos and the Cyclades. There are also several interesting churches and monasteries located in and around the village.
Walk across the Cedar Forest of Alyko and enjoy the magical Sunset on the beach
Beautiful cedar trees plantations on the sand with gorgeous pathways, leading to wonderful0 secluded beaches with cliffs and amazing sunsets.
Paros
Paros is an idyllic Greek island located in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Located between Naxos and Antiparos, Paros is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in Greece. The island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Paros is home to a variety of activities to keep visitors entertained. Blessed with picturesque beaches, visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and other water activities. The island also offers a variety of land-based activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Paros also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Paros is also known for its archaeological sites, which include ancient monuments and ruins. The island is home to the ancient town of Parikia, which is home to the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, which dates back to the 4th century. Paros also boasts a variety of traditional villages, such as Naoussa and Drios, where visitors can experience the local culture and cuisine.
Visit beautiful Monastiri beach
Located on the western side of the island, Monastiri beach offers a serene atmosphere, crystal clear waters, and stunning views. The beach is surrounded by a wide stretch of sand, making it ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The sand is also quite soft and inviting, making it a great spot for families and children. The crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming, and the beach is protected from the winds.
Explore the amazing Cave of Archilochos
The Cave of Archilochos is located on the south coast of the island, near the town of Parikia. It is a large, rocky cave, with several small chambers. The entrance to the cave is decorated with ancient frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Archilochos. Inside the cave, there are several inscriptions, believed to be the poet’s own words, as well as drawings of his contemporaries and a relief of a lion. The cave is said to have been the setting of one of the poet’s most famous works, the ‘Iliad’. According to legend, Archilochos was inspired to write the epic poem after spending time in the cave and listening to the song of the cicada. The walls of the cave are thought to have been inscribed with his words, creating a link between the poet and the cave.
Watch butterflies in Butterflies Nature Reserve
The Butterflies Nature Reserve on Paros is a great place to visit for those looking to explore the beauty of the island. The area provides visitors with a chance to witness some of the most beautiful creatures in the world in their natural habitat. The reserve is open year-round, and visitors can make the most of the stunning landscape and the abundance of wildlife that inhabit it.
Visit Paros Kite Beach for kitesurfing
On windy days in Paralia Pounta you can find a lot of water sports activities. Lots of colorful kites in the air along the crystal blue water lagoon – is a beautiful scenery by itself. If you want to join the kitesurfing community and learn this watersport, there are several kitesurfing schools available right on the beach.
Walk on the cozy old streets of Lefkes
Lefkes is a beautiful village situated at the top of a hill, surrounded by lush green valleys, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Lefkes is one of the oldest villages on Paros, and its history stretches back to ancient times. Its quaint cobbled streets, with their traditional white-washed houses, have remained unchanged for centuries. The village is also known for its many Byzantine churches, including the Church of Panagia Lefkiotissa, which was built in the 13th century. Visitors can explore the historical sights, such as the Venetian Castle, or enjoy the local food, including the famous Paros cheese.
Mykonos
Mykonos is a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea that has become a popular holiday destination for people from all over the world. The island boasts crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and a vibrant nightlife. Mykonos is known for its iconic windmills, which are a unique form of architecture. During the day, the windmills provide a great view of the town and the sea. At night, they light up, creating a beautiful and romantic atmosphere. The beaches of Mykonos are also a great attraction, with numerous beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. The most popular beaches are Super Paradise, Paradise, Psarou, and Platis Gialos. Each beach has its own unique atmosphere, so visitors can choose which one suits them best. The nightlife in Mykonos is also legendary. There are many bars, clubs, and restaurants, offering a variety of music and entertainment. Mykonos is especially known for its wild parties, which often include DJs and loud music. Visitors should also check out the local bars and taverns, which offer a more relaxing atmosphere.
Spend a great time in one of Mykonos beach clubs
Mykonos is a popular party location with various beach clubs to visit and enjoy music, food, and drinks during hot sunny days. Each of them has its own special vibes and entertainment program.
Visit great beach bars with a relaxing atmosphere
The beaches of Mykonos have become increasingly popular in recent years, and one of the main attractions of the island is its beach bars. They provide the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed day in the sun and a great way to meet locals and tourists. Mykonos beach bars offer a wide range of drinks and snacks, from traditional cocktails to the more exotic Greek offerings. Many of the beach bars also offer live music or DJs, which can help to create a great atmosphere and make the day even more fun.
Walk on the cozy streets of Mikonos town
The town of Mikonos has a long and fascinating history. The island was first inhabited around 4,000 BC and it was a major trading port for the ancient Greeks. It was also the site of a famous battle between the Athenians and the Spartans in 479 BC. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, with people coming from all over the world to explore winding streets and stunning architecture. The town is especially known for its stunning white-washed buildings and narrow, winding alleys. The architecture is traditional Greek, and the town is full of little churches, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to wander and explore, and it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of the town.
Mykonos is well known for its variety of nightclubs and parties
People from all over the world come to Mykonos to dive into its vibrant party lifestyle. There are many of them for any taste – day parties at the beach, which gradually become the night ones with bright colorful lights and loud DJ music.
Cyclades includes about 220 islands, so that’s just some main of them – more or less popular. So, there’s a lot more to discover around the area. A comfortable ferry connection allows you to easily run from one island to another and discover your own emotions from each of them.
Island hopping is a fun way to spend time and see more in Greece and it’s so easy here even with the car, choosing different options on the ferries from deck seat to cabin with the window and business lounge. Cyclades is nice authentic region to discover with such islands, as Naxos, Paros, Amorgos, Mykonos, Santorini and so much more! It’s very easy to book a ferry online with such great services, as ferryhopper.com
Feel free to use it here.