Why Greece Should Be on Your Bucket List
The Greek Islands are one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Europe and easily one of our favorite places to vacation.
Its stunning islands, rich cuisine, and ancient history make it the perfect getaway. We spent two weeks exploring several Cycladic islands and were amazed by how breathtaking each one was.
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Milos: The Hidden Gem of the Cyclades
Milos is one of the most stunning islands in Greece, known for its landscapes and hidden coves. Home to many beautiful beaches and secret gems, the most famous among them is Sarakiniko.
We knew we had to make Milos our first stop the moment we heard about it. The crystal-clear blue waters and unique cliffs made us feel like we were literally on another planet.
We enjoyed island hopping on a scooter, jumping off famous cliffs, trying delicious gyros in Vlahos, and getting lost in the colorful alleys of Plaka.
A boat trip to Kleftiko is a must—seeing the caves from the water is an unforgettable experience! Check out these guided tour options for a hassle-free adventure.
Note: Most of the towns are on a hill, be mindful if you plan on walking everywhere.
Top Things to Do in Milos:
- Explore Plaka and watch the sunset
- Visit the moon-like Sarakiniko Beach
- Discover the charming fishing village of Mandrakia
- Take a boat trip to Kleftiko & Polyegos – Click here for a full island tour!
Tip: Rent a scooter (as we did) or four-wheeler to explore the entire island.
Ios: The Greek Island With Breathtaking Cliffside Views
Ios is known for its vibrant nightlife and breathtaking cliffside villages (as pictured above).
Although we aren’t into the nightlife scene, we spent our time wandering through Chora, where we got lost in its never-ending alleys. The town is also filled with cozy restaurants on every corner, where we tried delicious foods and picked up the cutest souvenirs.
Ios is also home to beautiful sandy beaches, which aren’t as common in European destinations. We loved that it was a charming, lesser-known alternative to its famous neighbors, Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos. If you’re looking to add a mix of relaxation and adventure to your itinerary, Ios is a great pick.
Top Things to Do in Ios:
- Relax on Mylopotas Beach
- Wander through Chora’s maze-like streets
- Watch the sunset from the clifftop church
- Swim at the secluded Magganari Beach
Tip: Visit Greece during the shoulder season for fewer crowds and more affordable prices!
Naxos: The Most Diverse Island in the Cyclades
Naxos is the largest of the Cycladic Islands, offering a mix of beaches, history, and local culture.
We booked accommodation near the port because we planned to spend most of our time in that area. We loved dining at waterfront restaurants, where we enjoyed gyros, kleftiko, and moussaka among other dishes while watching sailboats dock at night.
Since Naxos is a big island and we only visited for a short period of time, we wanted a more laid-back experience. Because of this, we opted out of driving over an hour on a scooter to reach recommended locations and instead visited only a few nearby beaches. However, it’s definitely an island we plan to revisit to explore further!
Top Things to Do in Naxos:
- Relax on Plaka Beach
- Explore Naxos Port and waterfront tavernas
- Visit Naxos Castle and the iconic Temple of Apollo (Make sure to book your tour in advance)
Note: “Chora” is the Greek word for “town.” Don’t be surprised if every island you visit has a Chora as a must-see destination!
Paros: The Perfect Blend of Charm & Tranquility
Paros is home to stunning turquoise waters (as pictured above) and the most charming villages.
We decided to visit Paros instead of Mykonos, after it was highly recommended by a local we met in Naxos. It’s a smaller, calmer, and more accessible island, making it easy to explore.
We rented a scooter, wandered through town, and spent most of our time in Naousa, a scenic area with waterfront restaurants and unforgettable sunsets. Paros turned out to be one of our favorite islands, which was unexpected.
Tip: Have extra time while traveling to Paros? Make a visit to its neighboring island, Antiparos!
Top Things to Do in Paros:
- Dine in Naousa and watch the sunset by the water
- Relax on the stunning Monastiri Beach
- Stroll through the picturesque Paros Port
>> Want to explore islands in other parts of the world? Here are a few we recommend in Thailand <<
Why You Should Visit the Cyclades Islands
Milos, Ios, Naxos, and Paros are must-see islands for first-time visitors to the Cyclades.
They offer stunning beaches, delicious foods, and magical sunsets. If you’re looking for more Greek island inspiration, check out the Ionian Islands, including Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Corfu, and Lefkada—all on our bucket list!
✨ Start planning your trip today! For boat tours, day trips, and more click here!!
FAQs About Traveling to the Greek Islands
Is Greece expensive to visit?
Greece has become pricier in recent years, but we managed to travel on a low to mid-range budget. Visiting in mid-September helped us save on accommodations and activities.
How can I travel Greece on a budget?
- Visit during the shoulder season
- Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses
- Eat at local tavernas instead of touristy spots
- Rent a scooter instead of booking expensive tours
What’s the best way to travel between Greek islands?
Ferries run daily between major islands. If you have a fixed itinerary, we recommend booking in advance. If you are flexible with your time, you can book closer to your departure date.
What’s the best time to visit Greece?
The best time to visit is May-June or September-October for great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Which of these Greek islands is on your bucket list? Message us to let us know!
Disclaimer: All the information shared is based on our research and experiences. Please note that we are not travel consultants, tour guides, or financial advisors and are not held liable for any misinformation. We give suggestions, but advise each person to do their own research and make the decision that best suits them. This blog posts also contains affiliate links, by using the links we provide you are helping us at no additional cost to you.
