Are you already dreaming of your summer vacation? The most beautiful Cycladic islands offer the perfect escape between crystal clear sea and fascinating culture. Imagine sailing from island to island with frequent connections and convenient ferries, discovering an enchanting destination every day. In this article, we will guide you through the best Cycladic islands to explain not only the pristine beaches and breathtaking views but also how to plan your trip effectively. From tips on how to find the best connections to the Cyclades Islands from the port of Piraeus in Greece to tips for avoiding crowds, you’ll discover how to make every moment unforgettable. Don’t miss the chance to explore these hidden havens and immerse yourself in the most authentic local culture. Keep reading to get inspired for your next Cyclades vacation!
The Best Cycladic Islands To Visit In 2024
The islands of the Cyclades sit in the heart of the Aegean, known for their whitewashed houses, narrow cobblestone alleys, and blue-roofed churches. Here, we will explore the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades, each offering a unique experience.
Check out the best islands in the Cyclades that you absolutely cannot miss:
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- Santorini: The island with breathtaking views
- Mykonos: The island of chic fun
- Paros: A mystical mix of history and beaches
- Naxos: The largest island
- Milos: The lunar island
- Sifnos: For lovers of good food
- Amorgos: The refuge of free spirits
- Ios: The island of carefree youth
- Folegandros: A corner of peace and tradition
1. Santorini: The Cycladic island with breathtaking views
Santorini is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Cycladic Islands, and it will enchant you with its famous calderas and spectacular sunsets. This jewel among the Cycladic islands offers a unique view with its white houses contrasting with the deep blue Aegean Sea. Walking around Oia, the sunset creates a magical display of colors, irresistible to every visitor.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore ancient Thera for breathtaking views and the archaeological site of Akrotiri, which will take you back in time. If you love adventure, a walk along the crater or a sunset cruise offers a unique perspective of the island.
Savor the local cuisine: sun-dried tomatoes, fava beans, and Assyrtiko wine are just some of the delicacies that make Santorini one of the best Cycladic Islands for lovers of good food.
How do I get to Santorini?
Ferries from Piraeus to Santorini (Thera) sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 4 hr 45 min to 12 hr 50 min, and ticket prices start from €48*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
2. Mykonos: The island of chic fun
Mykonos is a fun-lovers paradise with its vibrant nightlife and trendy beaches. Among the best of the Cyclades Islands, it shines for its exclusive clubs and venues where the party never ends, perfect for those who want to dance until dawn. Keep in mind though, Mykonos is not just about partying!
If you are looking for a quieter experience, we recommend exploring traditional villages such as Ano Mera, where time seems to slow down. Here, you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine in a local tavern away from the hustle and bustle. Less crowded beaches such as Fokos offer a serene retreat to relax and enjoy the scenery without crowds. Discover Mykonos, which demonstrates with every nook and cranny why it is counted among the most beautiful Cycladic Islands.
How do I get to Mykonos?
Ferries from Piraeus to Mykonos sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 2 hr 35 min to 5 hr 15 min, and ticket prices start from €43*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
3. Paros: A mystical mix of history and beaches
Paros, among the most beautiful of the Cyclades Islands, welcomes you with its sandy beaches and fascinating historic sites. Exploring this gem of the Cyclades means soaking in an overview of enchanting beaches such as Kolymbithres and Golden Beach, perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying water sports.
Don’t miss a visit to the charming village of Lefkes, with its narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, or the majestic Temple of Apollo in Parikia, a witness to the island’s thousand-year history.
For an unforgettable experience, join a traditional Greek cooking class or rent a scooter to explore the island freely. Paros offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it one of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades not to be missed.
How do I get to Paros?
Ferries from Piraeus to Paros sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 3 hr 40 min to 4 hr 30 min, and ticket prices start from €40.50*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
4. Naxos: The largest island
Naxos, among the most beautiful and least touristy of the Cyclades Islands, will surprise you with its natural attractions and quiet beaches. Despite being the largest of the Cyclades group, Naxos remains a hidden treasure, less crowded than Santorini and Mykonos. Its beaches such as Plaka and Agios Prokopios offer golden sands and crystal clear waters, ideal for relaxing without the crowds typical of the more famous islands.
But Naxos is more than beaches and sea! Explore the culture-rich hinterland with visits to picturesque villages such as Halki and Apiranthos, where local traditions mingle with an authentic atmosphere. With its mountainous landscapes and hiking trails, Naxos is a true paradise for nature and culture lovers.
How do I get to Naxos?
Ferries from Piraeus to Naxos sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 3 h 25 min to 5 h 45 min, and ticket prices start from €42*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
5. Milos: The lunar island
Known for its extraordinary rock formations and volcanic beaches, Milos is one of the best Cycladic Islands and a pearl waiting to be discovered. Its beaches, characterized by golden sand and crystal clear waters, offer a unique landscape surrounded by striking cliffs and sea caves. For photographers and nature lovers, Milos offers breathtaking views and opportunities to explore isolated and wild corners.
Despite its beauty, this small Cycladic island still remains relatively quiet, attracting those interested in discovering its unique natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations. Explore its volcanic beaches, such as Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, with their lunar landscape, and prepare to be enchanted by the wild beauty of Milos.
How to get to Milos?
Ferries from Piraeus to Milos sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 2 hr 35 min to 7 hr 15 min, and ticket prices start from €48*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
6. Sifnos: For lovers of good food
Sifnos is a culinary paradise for lovers of good food, known among Greeks for its excellent cuisine. This island, one of the most beautiful of the Cyclades, delights visitors with its traditional and authentic dishes. From onion and cheese dishes like the famous ‘Revithada‘, to the sweet ‘Amygdalota‘, every bite is a journey into taste and tradition.
For an unforgettable dining experience, don’t miss the best places to eat on the island, such as the quaint taverns of Apollonia and Kastro. Savor local specialties such as ‘Mastello‘ and ‘Manoura‘ and discover why Sifnos is considered a mouthwatering paradise.
Sifnos retains an authentic charm with less tourist influx, making it an ideal place for those who want to combine relaxation and gastronomy in a dream vacation in the Cyclades.
How do I get to Sifnos?
Ferries from Piraeus to Sifnos sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 2 hr 30 min to 5 hr 35 min, and ticket prices start from €43*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
7. Amorgos: The refuge of free spirits
Amorgos will captivate you with its wild charm and spectacular scenic hikes, making it one of the best Greek islands in the Cyclades. Known for its impressive cliffs and deep sea, Amorgos is a true paradise for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the main tourist circuits.
The places of cultural and historical interest are numerous. For instance, don’t miss a visit to the monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, set on rocks overlooking the sea, and the ancient ruins of Minoa. But it is in exploring its unspoiled nature that Amorgos reveals its full beauty: walk along the scenic paths through breathtaking landscapes and dive into the crystal-clear waters of its hidden bays.
How do I get to Amorgos?
Ferries from Piraeus to Amorgos sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 5 hr 45 min to 7 hr 45 min, and ticket prices start from €42*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
8. Ios: The island of carefree youth
Ios offers a unique mix of young nightlife and quiet remote beaches, making it one of the most beautiful Cycladic Islands. From wild parties on the beach at Mylopotas to secluded bays like Manganari, there is something for everyone on the island.
For a balanced stay between fun and relaxation, we recommend exploring not only the vibrant nightlife of Ios, but also spending time at its quiet beaches and hiking in nature. Enjoy a day of snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Koumbara Bay or a peaceful sunset on Agia Theodoti beach.
With its festive atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Ios will give you an unforgettable experience in the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades.
How do I get to Ios?
Ferries from Piraeus to Ios sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 4 hrs 5 min to 11 hrs 35 min, and ticket prices start from €43.50*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
9. Folegandros: A corner of peace and tradition
Folegandros enchants with its authentic and tranquil beauty, making it one of the most beautiful Cycladic Islands. This small, quiet island offers an intimate and less commercial experience, perfect for those seeking a relaxing vacation away from the crowds.
Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and dotted with picturesque traditional villages, Folegandros invites the discovery of remote beaches and secluded bays. Among the activities not to be missed are walks along the scenic trails that offer spectacular views of the island and relaxing swims in the crystal-clear waters of its beaches.
Discover the authenticity and charm of Folegandros, a hidden gem among the best of the Cycladic Islands, which will captivate you with its tranquility and timeless beauty.
How do I get to Folegandros?
Ferries from Piraeus to Folegandros sail daily. The trip duration ranges from 3 hr 50 min to 8 hr 20 min, and ticket prices start from €83.70*.
*Prices may vary depending on the desired departure date and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with.
Discover The Most Beautiful Cyclades Islands: Use Ferryscanner to Book Your Trip!
With all of these beautiful Cycladic Islands waiting to be explored, there has never been a better time to start planning your dream vacation. Whether you’re thinking of a romantic getaway, an exciting adventure, or simply looking for some relaxation by the sea, there is a perfect island for your every need. Don’t wait any longer, book your ferry tickets now using Ferryscanner and set out to discover the best Cyclades Islands!