The Cyclades Islands are what most people's impressions of Greece are. Traditional whitewashed houses
with brightly coloured shutters and doors line the streets of the majority of this island chain.
Not all of the islands are like this with Syros for example being a great example of neo-classical
mansions tumbling into the sea.
These islands are great for getting to see more than one island as the distances between are
not huge. Generally there are a couple of ferries which do inter-island trips rather than
trekking over from Athens and journeys between islands can be as little as 30 minutes,
meaning day trip excursions to other islands are easily done or you can choose to do a
little island hopping.
With fabulous beaches and great wine and food, what more could you want from your dream Greek holiday?
with brightly coloured shutters and doors line the streets of the majority of this island chain.
Not all of the islands are like this with Syros for example being a great example of neo-classical
mansions tumbling into the sea.
These islands are great for getting to see more than one island as the distances between are
not huge. Generally there are a couple of ferries which do inter-island trips rather than
trekking over from Athens and journeys between islands can be as little as 30 minutes,
meaning day trip excursions to other islands are easily done or you can choose to do a
little island hopping.
With fabulous beaches and great wine and food, what more could you want from your dream Greek holiday?
Which island will you choose?
Armogos is one of the Cyclades' most unspoiled islands, famous for The Big Blue and its crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes. The highlight is the cliff-side Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, with stunning icons and breathtaking views.
Its main settlements—Aegiali, Chora, and Katapola—blend authentic village life, Cycladic charm, and a lively waterfront. Important Information
Amorgos does not have an airport. Closest airports to Amorgos would be Athens, Mykonos or Santorini.
There are two ferry ports on Amorgos and we will advise which one you will travel in to/out of. There is at least one daily link with Athens and Naxos. 
Antiparos is a small, charming island tucked beside its larger neighbour, Paros. Its relative difficulty to reach keeps it quiet and exclusive - one reason why it attracts the rich and famous, including Tom Hanks and Lord Sugar.
It centres around a picturesque bougainvillea-covered Main Street lined with tavernas, cafes, and bars. Highlights include its impressive stalactite cave, but most visitors come simply to unwind on Antiparos' beautiful, laid-back beaches. Important Information
Antiparos does not have an airport with the nearest being on Paros, however there is no direct flight from the UK. Once you have arrived on Paros at Paroikia port or the airport, you will need to make your way to the small port of Pounda where you will board the landing craft ferry to take you across to Antiparos (about 20 minutes). Ios
Ios may be known for its party reputation, but this small island offers far more than nightlife. Once a 1960s hippy haven, it now blends history, charm and vibrant energy.
By day, Chora is a stunning maze of whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, 12 windmills, and the remnants of a Venetian fortress. At night, it comes alive with bars and clubs popular with younger travellers. Important Information
Ios does not have an airport. Closest airport is Santorini which has direct flights from most UK airports.
The ferry journey from Santorini to Ios takes approximately 30-60 minutes depending on the boat, and most hotels can pick you up from the port. Kimolos
Kimolos is a small, peaceful island tucked behind its neighbour Milos and is known as a refuge for rare bird species and the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. With crystal-clear waters, striking beaches, and charming architecture, it’s one of Greece’s best alternative island escapes.
Life centres around Chorio, the island’s only village, where most accommodation, tavernas, shops, and facilities are located around the port. Kimolos’ beaches are a real highlight, with a beautiful stretch close to the harbour and many more unspoilt spots reachable on foot or by boat. Important Information
Kimolos does not have an airport with the nearest being a domestic one on Milos. We therefore recommend flying into Milos via Athens and then taking the small ferry from Apollonia across to Kimolos.
The small ferry from Apollonia on Milos runs to Kimolos several times per day and takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Milos
Milos is one of Greece’s most laid-back islands, known for its unique lunar-like landscapes, iconic beaches, and colourful fishing villages. Often compared to Santorini, Milos stands apart with its relaxed atmosphere and striking natural scenery.
There are three main areas to stay: Adamas, the port and transport hub; Plaka, perched on the hills with narrow streets and inviting tavernas and bars; and Apollonia, a charming fishing village with a beach and ferry links to Kimolos. Highlights include Sarakiniko Beach, the village of Klima, and tasting Ladenia, the island’s local speciality. Important Information
Milos does have a domestic airport so we recommend flying into Athens and then take the domestic flight, approx 30 mins.
Milos is on the Western Cyclades line and generally has at least 3 ferries per day from Athens and at least 1 from Santorini. Paros
Paros is often described as Mykonos’ little brother, lively and popular, yet more relaxed and authentically Greek. Its excellent ferry connections make it a hub for the Cyclades, and Paroikia’s busy harbour is a great place to watch island life unfold.
Beyond the bustle, Paros offers vineyards, olive and citrus groves, and even a butterfly-filled valley. Visit the chic fishing village of Naoussa, relax on beaches like Kolimbithres with its sculpted boulders, or take a short trip to Antiparos. Paros is also an ideal base for island hopping to Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini. Important Information
You can't fly direct from the UK onto Paros, however there are domestic flights from Athens and in the summer from Thessaloniki and Heraklion.
Another alternative to flying onto Paros is to fly into Athens, Mykonos or Santorini and take the ferry. Paros is one of the main ports in the Cyclades with ferry links to most of the other islands. Serifos
Despite its beautiful beaches, scenic Chora, and good value, Serifos remains surprisingly uncrowded, even though it sits on a main ferry route from Piraeus. Most visitors stay in Livadi and Livadakia, neighbouring bays near the port with shops, banks, and waterfront tavernas, some with tables right on the sand.
A local bus connects the port to Chora and selected beaches, though hiring a car allows you to explore more freely. Perched above Livadi, the whitewashed Chora offers classic Cycladic charm and spectacular views. With around 60 sandy beaches, many with natural shade, Serifos is a true beach lover’s paradise. Important Information
Serifos does not have an airport so we recommend you fly into Athens, which has direct flights from the UK.
Serifos is on the Western Cyclades line and generally has at least 1 ferry per day from Athens. Syros
Syros is an island that quietly surprises, combining a working local life with culture, history, and beautiful beaches. While parts of the landscape are rugged, inland villages offer pockets of greenery and there are excellent beaches at Vari, Galissas, and Kini. The capital, Hermoupolis, is the administrative heart of the Cyclades and one of Greece’s most impressive towns. Built around one of the deepest natural ports in the Aegean, it is crowned by two hills — Ano Syros and Vrontado — and is the finest preserved example of 19th-century neoclassical architecture in Greece. With frequent ferries and flights from Athens and easy connections to nearby islands, Syros offers authentic island life with a lively café and dining scene not driven by tourism. Important Information
Flights are available into Syros from Athens most days throughout the summer months.
A number of ferries operate from Piraeus to Syros and there is always at least one ferry per day (usually 2-3). As this is one of the premier ferry routes in the Aegean. |
Anafi, one of Greece's most unspoiled islands, is a peaceful escape just 90 minutes east of Santorini. With limited accessibility, it avoids mass tourism. Accommodation is simple, and nightlife is minimal.
The port of Agios Nikolaos offers tavernas and a cafe, with a bus linking to the hilltop Chora, where you'll find small shops and eateries. Anafi’s highlights include its stunning southern beaches, the boat trip to Monastiri, and hikes to Zoodogou Pyrgi and Panagia Kalamiotissa. Important Information
Anafi does not have an airport. Closest airport is Santorini which has direct flights from most UK airports.
Ferries to Anafi have impoved and there is a connection with Santorini at least 4 times per week. Donoussa
Donoussa, one of the Little Cyclades south of Naxos, is a tiny island full of natural beauty and warm hospitality. Still untouched by mass tourism, it offers unspoilt, crystal clear beaches, perfect for long, lazy swims and total relaxation.
Life centres around the port village of Agios Stavros, where you'll find a handful of tavernas, bakeries, and small shops. Simple, peaceful, and ideal for travellers seeking an authentic island escape. Important Information
Donoussa doesn't have an airport so we recommend flying to Naxos via Athens and then transferring by ferry.
Ferries to Donoussa operate from Piraeus 3 times per week. There is a daily sailing from Naxos. 
Iraklia, one of the Little Cyclades south of Naxos, is a tiny island known for its natural beauty and the warm generosity of its residents. With only around 110 permanent inhabitants, life centres on the port village of Agios Georgios, named after its small chapel.
The harbour's mix of fishing boats and ferry arrivals creates a charming, easygoing atmosphere. From Agios Georgios, small excursion boats connect you to Iraklia's beaches and neighbouring island of Schinoussa. Important Information
Iraklia doesn't have an airport so we recommend flying to Naxos via Athens and then transferring by ferry.
Ferries to Iraklia operate from Piraeus 3 times per week. There is a daily sailing from Naxos. 
Koufonissi, one of the Little Cyclades south of Naxos, is a tiny island known for its incredible blue waters, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality. Despite its size, it has quickly become a fashionable destination thanks to easy ferry access and a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.
The village is classically Cycladic, with whitewashed alleyways lined with cafés and tavernas. Small boats run daily to the beaches, with Pori Beach a standout, home to Kalofego, serving modern Greek cuisine with a creative twist. Important Information
Iraklia doesn't have an airport so we recommend flying to Naxos via Athens and then transferring by ferry.
Ferries to Iraklia operate from Piraeus 3 times per week. There is a daily sailing from Naxos. Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic destinations, famous for its beautiful beaches, cosmopolitan town, and Greece’s most vibrant and sophisticated nightlife. Popular with celebrities, the island is welcoming to everyone and offers far more than just its glamorous reputation.
While Mykonos is known as one of Greece’s more expensive islands, it can be enjoyed at many budgets. World-class beaches such as Psarou, Platy Gialos, and Super Paradise offer everything from high-energy beach clubs to relaxed bays with traditional tavernas, making it easy to find your own perfect Mykonos experience. Important Information
There are direct flights to Mykonos from UK airports.
There are plenty of options when it comes to getting ferries to Mykonos. If you are travelling from Athens there are departures from both Rafina and Piraeus and the island is also connected with many of the other Cyclades islands. 
Santorini is Greece’s most photographed island, famed for its dramatic caldera, sheer cliffs, and deep blue seas formed by a massive volcanic eruption. Its whitewashed villages perched high above the water give it a striking, almost unreal beauty.
Oia is the most exclusive resort, known for luxury cave hotels and the island’s famous sunsets. Heading south past Imerovigli and Firostefani brings you to the lively capital, Thira, where narrow streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, and bars. For a more affordable stay, the south coast resorts of Kamari and Perissa offer black sand beaches backed by traditional tavernas. Important Information
There are direct flights into Santorini from UK airports.
Santorini is on the main Cyclades ferry line with boats daily from Piraeus and Crete. This is ideal if you want to island hop. Sifnos
Sifnos is a true gem of the Cyclades and a firm favourite for those who make the effort to reach it by ferry. With no airport on the island, it remains wonderfully unspoilt despite regular sailings from Piraeus and connections from Mykonos and Santorini.
Kamares, the port, welcomes visitors with a sheltered sandy beach, excellent tavernas, and good transport links across the island. Inland, the capital Apollonia offers lively streets, stylish bars, and great dining, while resorts such as Vathy, Platy Gialos, Faros, and Cheronissos provide a more relaxed pace. Don’t miss exploring the atmospheric lanes of Kastro... just don’t tell too many people about it. Important Information
Sifnos does not have an airport so we recommend you fly into Athens, which has direct flights from the UK.
Sifnos is on the Western Cyclades line and generally has at least 2 ferries per day from Athens. Tinos
Tinos is one of Greece’s most sacred islands, renowned for its deep religious significance and countless chapels scattered across the landscape. Each year on 15 August, thousands of pilgrims arrive for the Festival of the Panagia, one of the most important religious events in Greece, creating a powerful and unforgettable atmosphere.
Outside the festival period, Tinos is lively yet welcoming, with inns and tavernas lining the waterfront and a selection of good beaches around the island. A local bus service makes it easy to explore, offering a blend of spiritual heritage, everyday island life, and coastal relaxation. Important Information
Tinos doesn't have an airport so we recommend travelling into either Mykonos or Athens and taking the ferry from there.
Generally there are approximately 5 ferries per day in each direction. |
Andros is an intriguing island with a split personality - scorched, rugged on one side, lush and green on the other. Quiet inland hamlets contrast with stylish coastal villages favoured by Athenians for their chic bars and easy access from the mainland.
Cooled by the summer meltemi winds, Andros is ideal for walkers, offering green valleys, orchards, forests, and plenty of beautiful beaches. Important Information
Andros doesn't have an airport so we recommend travelling into Athens and taking the ferry from Rafina, or Mykonos.
The ferries for Andros go from the port of Rafina, which is approximately 25 minutes by a regular bus service from Athens Airport. There are generally 5 ferries per day in each direction. 
Folegandros is a rugged, naturally beautiful island of high cliffs, clear Aegean waters, and a dazzling white Chora overlooked by a hilltop monastery - everything you imagine a classic Greek island to be. Known as the "island of peace", its slow, tranquil pace perfectly fits its reputation.
The port of Karovastasi is a low-key spot with Cycladic whitewashed houses, boutique hotels, and a few tavernas and a bakery. Most accommodation sits on the medieval Chora, 650ft above sea level. Important Information
Folegandros doesn't have an airport so we recommend you fly into Santorini or Athens and transfer by ferry from there.
Folegandros is usually linked at least daily with Athens and Santorini by ferry. Kea
Close to Athens, Kea is a favourite weekend escape for locals, thanks to its steep mountains, olive groves, valleys, coves and beautiful beaches. Its capital, Ioulis, is a charming hill town of tiled roofs, cobbled streets and pretty squares.
Kea also has a unique claim to fame: the Britannic, sister ship to the Titanic, lies off its coast and is a well-known diving site. Kea remains quiet and largely untouched by mass tourism, but those who make the journey are rewarded with genuine tranquillity, unspoilt beaches, and the simple pleasure of relaxing to the sound of the waves with a good coffee. Important Information
Kea does not have an airport. Closest airport is Athens which has direct flights from most UK airports.
Ferries for Kea operate from the port of Lavrion. Kythnos
Just 2–2.5 hours from Athens, Kythnos is one of those islands that leaves you wondering why it isn’t better known. From the moment you arrive, it feels familiar and welcoming, an effortless sense of calm that rewards those who make the journey.
The island is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and natural thermal springs. The capital, Chora (Messaria), features whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, windmills, and inviting cafés and tavernas. Further south, the village of Driopida charms with red-tiled houses, narrow lanes, and a peaceful atmosphere scented with wild oregano and thyme. Important Information
Kythnos does not have an airport so we recommend flying into Athens and transferring by ferry from there. Direct flights from the UK.
The ferries for Kythnos will operate either from Piraeus or Lavrion. Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and, thanks to improved ferry links and direct flights to Athens, is growing in popularity. Its size, however, makes it easy to escape the crowds and discover a slower, more traditional way of life.
The island’s fertile interior is ideal for walking, with mountains, valleys, and farmland, while over 90km of coastline offers endless beach options. Highlights include the long sands of Pyrgaki, the popular beaches of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna, a visit to Halki village for its local citron liqueur, and watching the sunset at the iconic Portara overlooking Naxos harbour. Important Information
You can't fly direct from the UK onto Naxos, however there are domestic flights from Athens, Mykonos or Santorini.
Naxos is on the main Cyclades Ferry Line so has regular boats from Rafina, Piraeus, Mykonos and Santorini. 
Schinoussa, one of the Little Cyclades south of Naxos, is a tiny island rich in natural beauty and warm hospitality. With only a handful of cafés, tavernas, small shops, and basic facilities, life here is simple and unhurried.
What Schinoussa lacks in size, it more than makes up for with its beaches, over 15 to choose from, many unspoilt and wonderfully quiet. Bring a towel, a good book, and plenty of time, because total relaxation comes easily here. Important Information
Schinoussa doesn't have an airport so we recommend flying to Naxos via Athens and then transferring by ferry.
Ferries to Schinoussa operate from Piraeus 3 times per week. There is a daily sailing from Naxos. Sikinos
Sikinos remains one of the Cyclades’ least-visited islands, largely due to its limited ferry connections, but those who make the journey are rewarded with genuine charm and a peaceful, unspoilt atmosphere. Set between Ios and Folegandros, the island is known for its warm hospitality and low-key way of life.
Most accommodation is found at the port of Alopronia, while the Chora is one of the finest in the Aegean. Divided into Kastro and Chorio, it features cliff-edge mansions, windmills, lively tavernas and cafés, and a maze of restored alleyways that reflect the island’s rich history. Important Information
Sikinos does not have an airport so we recommend you fly into Santorini, which has direct flights from the UK.
There are not many ferries to and from Sikinos so this island requires careful planning. |
T E S T I M O N I A L S
Happy People
The team have booked three very different holidays for me, two for a couple and one for a group of nine. They listened to our requirements and used their expert knowledge of Greece to provide us with several options from which to choose. I found them to be very professional, nothing is too much trouble and they strive to find a good deal. I would not hesitate to recommend them. 
Julie from Nottingham
The business has booked me a few different holidays ranging from 2 weeks away in the sun to City Breaks. They have a great knowledge and understanding of your needs and requirements when booking a holiday. They always try to accommodate your budget and work extremely hard to get you what you're asking for. They have an extremely good knowledge of the Greek Islands and never fail when recommending specific places. I would always recommend the team as they are helpful and professional at all times. 
Tony from Nottingham
|
Fantastic service. I explained what kind of holiday I was looking for and my budget and they came up with different options to choose from. Nothing was too much trouble and the communication was first class. I would definitely recommend and would not hesitate in using this 5 star service again.
Ged from Nottingham
Chris and Ian are the team that is The Greek Specialist. As a brand of Verini Travel, part of PTS (Protected Trust Services - number PTS5880), we work with ABTA and ATOL protected operators and with significant experience in the travel industry and in travelling to Greece, we can ensure that you we will provide you with the best holiday possible at the best possible price.
Verini Travel Limited is an ATOL holder, number 12280.
All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.caa.co.uk
Our privacy policy can be found at the top of this page.
Verini Travel Limited is an ATOL holder, number 12280.
All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.caa.co.uk
Our privacy policy can be found at the top of this page.
