Best Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary (2024)

Are you planning an island hopping trip in the Cyclades and looking for the ultimate Cyclades Island hopping itinerary? With over 220 islands waiting to be explored, choosing the best Cyclades Islands to visit can feel overwhelming – but you’re in the right place!

The Greek islands are among my absolute favorite summer destinations in Europe and I’ve done several Greek island hopping trips over the last years. That’s why I’m thrilled to share the perfect 3-week Cyclades Island hopping itinerary with you, featuring the absolute highlights and the must-visit islands you won’t want to miss, along with some alternative routes for 7, 10, and 14 days if you’re short on time!

Believe me when I tell you, it’s such a dream to explore the Cyclades Islands – they hold a special place in my heart! I hope our comprehensive Cyclades travel guide will help you plan the perfect island hopping trip and make the most of your time in the Cyclades. Keep reading for our personal insider tips and recommendations, and get ready to discover iconic islands like Santorini and Mykonos, as well as underrated gems such as Naxos, Paros, and Antiparos.

Best Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary - 3 Weeks in the Cyclades: A scenic view of the whitewashed houses sitting on a cliff above the deep blue Aegean Sea.

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How to Get to the Cyclades Islands

If you’re traveling internationally, flying to Athens is often the most convenient starting point. From Athens, you can easily connect to the Cyclades Islands via domestic flights or ferries.

💡 I highly recommend adding a 2-day visit to Athens to your Greece itinerary if you haven’t explored the capital city yet.

Additionally, several Cyclades Islands, such as Mykonos and Santorini, have their own airports, allowing for direct flights from major European cities. Flying directly to Mykonos is ideal if you’re short on time, as this is the first stop on our itinerary.

Alternatively, taking a ferry from Athens’ Port of Piraeus offers a scenic route and allows you to experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea while saving some money, as ferry tickets from Athens are often more economical compared to flight tickets.

A charming Greek village in the Cyclades, characterized by its traditional white houses adorned with blue windows, set against the backdrop of the shimmering azure Aegean Sea.

How to Travel Between the Cyclades Islands?

When it comes to traveling between the Cyclades Islands, ferries are undoubtedly the best choice. With their frequent schedules and routes connecting all Cycladic islands, ferries offer the best flexibility and convenience.

Tip: I recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. This way, you can secure the best departure times and prices, plus avoid any last-minute hassles, ensuring a stress-free island hopping experience in the Cyclades.

We absolutely enjoyed traveling by ferry in Greece because the ferries are very comfortable, provide scenic views, and offer a seamless way to hop from one island to another. Despite being slightly more expensive, we always opt for speed ferries, as they allow us to maximize our time on the islands.

⛴️ BOOK YOUR FERRY TICKETS WITH FERRYHOPPER

Effortlessly plan your ferry trips and island hopping in Greece with Ferryhopper. Get all ferry schedules, including direct and indirect connections between islands, and book your tickets at the lowest prices with no hidden fees. You can also compare schedules, ferry companies, and prices to choose the best route.

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The iconic windmills of Mykonos stand proudly against the backdrop of the vibrant blue sea and rugged, rocky hills.

How to Get Around on the Cyclades Islands

While public transportation options such as buses are available on most Cyclades Islands, I highly recommend renting a car for the ultimate freedom and flexibility. A rental car allows you to explore the islands at your own pace and maximize your time.

During our visits, we rented a car on every islands and found it to be the perfect way to navigate the diverse landscapes and attractions – especially considering the Cyclades’ sometimes windy conditions, which may not always be ideal for alternatives like scooters or ATVs.

Renting a car is very easy and straightforward on the Cyclades Islands, and gives you easy access to even the most remote areas of the islands. This way you can discover off-the-beaten-path places, authentic local towns, and secluded beaches, which you often cannot easily reach by public transportation.

🚘 BEST CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking a rental car online, I personally recommend and always use Discover Cars. They search not only for international car rental companies but also for small, local agencies to find the best deal for you. Plus, there are no hidden costs and they offer free cancellation. I always opt for full coverage because of their comepetitive rates!

Check rental car prices

Best Time to Visit the Cyclades Islands

The best time to visit the Cyclades largely depends on your preferences and the islands you plan to visit. While the peak summer months of July and August offer warm weather and a bustling atmosphere, they also bring along large crowds and higher prices.

For a more relaxed experience, I recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons – either at the beginning or the end of the peak travel season. In my opinion, the best months to visit the Cyclades are May, June, and September. During these times, the weather remains pleasant, the tourist crowds are smaller, and accommodation prices are more affordable.

This allows for a more authentic experience, where you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the stunning landscapes without the hustle and bustle of peak season. Plus, you’ll have more flexibility in booking accommodations and activities, making it easier to create your ideal Cyclades adventure.

Please keep in mind that the off-season, typically between mid-October and mid-April, isn’t ideal for island hopping in the Cyclades. During this time, ferries run less frequently or may even be suspended on some routes. Additionally, it’s more challenging to find accommodations, restaurants, and shops, as many of them are closed during the off-season.

A dreamy image featuring four traditional Cycladic windmills and a small chapel perched along the coastline, against a backdrop of a pastel-colored sky.

3-Week Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary Overview

Below, you can find a breakdown of the perfect 3-week Cyclades Island hopping itinerary for first-time visitors, which includes the absolute highlights and the best Cyclades Islands you can’t miss!

  • Day 1 – 4: Mykonos & Delos
  • Day 4 – 8: Paros & Antiparos
  • Day 8 – 12: Naxos
  • Day 12 – 16: Santorini
  • Day 16 – 21: Milos

In the following, you’ll find more information about our 3-week island hopping route, including helpful insights into each of the islands featured in our itinerary. Explore the best of the Greek islands with our ultimate guide!

Complete 3-Week Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary

A photo of the charming old harbor in Paros, where small fishing boats dot the turquoise waters, framed by white-washed houses under a clear blue sky.

Day 1 – 4: Mykonos & Delos

The Cyclades Island of Mykonos is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional Cycladic architecture, beautiful beaches, and cosmopolitan charm. It’s one of the most popular islands in the Aegean Sea and offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

In the Old Town of Mykonos, also known as Chora, you can wander through narrow alleys lined with whitewashed buildings, small boutiques, and vibrant bougainvillea, while soaking in the quintessential Greek atmosphere.

Must-visit spots include the Old Port, Little Venice, with its colorful balconies overlooking the sea, the famous windmills of Mykonos, and the iconic Panagia Paraportiani Church.

A photo of me standing beside a vibrant bougainvillea tree, nestled in a picturesque cobblestoned alley adorned with white houses and accented by blue doors, windows, and stairs.
A ginger cat peacefully napping in a charming corner of Mykonos town, framed by vibrant pink bougainvillea flowers in the background.
A photo of me seated in front of a windmill in Mykonos, with the deep blue sea and the picturesque Mykonos Town as a scenic backdrop.

Mykonos is also renowned for its stunning beaches and lively beach bars, so make sure to include some relaxation time at the beach during your time in Mykonos.

As evening falls, Mykonos comes alive with its legendary nightlife. I recommend indulging in a dinner at a seafront restaurant, embarking on a sunset boat cruise, and experiencing the vibrant club scene.

For a cultural excursion, you shouldn’t miss a day trip to Delos, a nearby island and UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and mythology.

Mykonos: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Myconian Avaton

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Mykonos

📌 Top Places to Visit: Chora, Little Venice, Kato Mili Windmills, Old Port, Delos Island

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours:

• Mykonos Sunset Boat Cruise (my top tip!)

• Delos Guided Day Trip (a must-do!)

• Mykonos Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour (perfect for wine lovers)

• Mykonos Greek Cooking Class (the best Mykonos food experience)

• Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise with BBQ Lunch (great alternative to a standard Delos tour)

A photo of Little Venice in Mykonos, where charming white-washed houses line the seafront, with a big cruise ship and scenic hills in the background.

➡️ Check out my complete Mykonos Travel Guide for our detailed Mykonos itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

Day 4 – 8: Paros & Antiparos

Paros, a gem in the heart of the Cyclades, is famous for its traditional villages, beautiful landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. The island boasts some of the best beaches in the Cyclades. Paros is hands down one of my favorite islands in Greece!

One of the highlights of Paros is the charming fishing village of Naoussa, with its picturesque harbor and vibrant waterfront lined with lovely tavernas and cafes. I especially loved getting lost in the labyrinthine alleyways of Naoussa. The small town exudes a laid-back atmosphere that’s truly captivating!

The charming Port of Naoussa in Paros, Greece, adorned with colorful fishing boats
A photo of us sitting at the white-washed Monastery of St. John Deti in Paros, with its vibrant blue dome, a waving Greek flag, and the turqouise sea in the background.
An old, white building with beautiful columns and arches showcasing the Venetian archtitecture in Parikia, Paros.

Make sure to also visit Parikia, the capital of Paros, as well as the picturesque mountain villages of Lefkes, Kostos, Prodromos, and Marpissa for a glimpse into authentic island life.

If you are a beach lover, I recommend exploring Paros’ magnificent beaches, such as Golden Beach, Monastiri Beach, or Kolymbithres Beach. Kolymbithres Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations and belongs to my favorite beaches in the Cyclades.

No trip to Paros would be complete without visiting Antiparos, the small sister island of Paros. Accessible via a quick 10-minute ferry ride, Antiparos features a charming Old Town and a breathtaking coastline with the most stunning, untouched beaches.

Paros: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Mr & Mrs White Paros

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Paros

📌 Top Places to Visit: Naoussa, Parikia, Lefkes, Antiparos, Kolymbithres Beach

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours: Sailing Cruise with Greek Lunch & Wine (my top tip!)

A photo of me posing in front of a yellow door next to a yellow window of a building framed by vibrant bougainvillea flowers.
A picturesque cobblestone alley in Marpissa, Paros, flanked by traditional white houses adorned with vibrant bougainvillea flowers.
A photo of us sitting in front of the famous pink door in Marpissa, Paros.

➡️ Check out my complete Paros Travel Guide for our detailed Paros itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

Day 8 – 12: Naxos

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, captivates with its rich history, ancient archaeological sites, beautiful beaches, and charming villages.

Chora, the main town of Naxos, features a picturesque labyrinth of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and Venetian architecture. Here, you can stroll through the enchanting streets, visit the iconic Kastro (Naxos Castle), and marvel at the ancient Portara, the monumental entrance to the Temple of Apollo.

A charming corner of Naxos Town, featuring traditional white Cycladic buildings, blue doors, and cobblestone streets.
A photo of me standing in front of a beautil green door of an old building.
A cute open-air restaurant with blue tables, nestled in the heart of a quaint village in Naxos.

For history enthusiasts, Naxos boasts several archaeological sites worth exploring, including the Dionysus Temple and the Temple of Demeter in Sangri. Meanwhile, the charming villages of Halki and Filoti offer a glimpse into traditional island life with their quaint tavernas and cobblestone streets.

Don’t miss out on Naxos’ pristine beaches! From the golden sands of Agios Georgios, Agia Anna, and Agios Prokopios to the secluded coves of Alyko Beach, Hawaii Beach, and Mikri Vigla Beach, the island is home to some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen in Greece.

💡 Insider Tip: Close to Naxos are the Small Cyclades. I recommend reserving one full day for a Small Cyclades Island Hopping Tour to the picturesque Greek islands of Kato Koufonisi and Ano Koufonisi. They are one of the best-kept secrets of the Cyclades!

Naxos: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Naxos DownTown Apartments & Suites

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Naxos

📌 Top Places to Visit: Chora, Portara, Agia Anna, Demeter Temple, Halki, Filoti, Apeiranthos

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours:

• Koufonisi Cruise (my top tip!)

• Naxos Highlights Tour (see all of Naxos’ highlights in one day)

• Naxos Town Food Tour Including Tastings and Wine (try Naxos’ famous cheeses)

• Naxos Half-Day Cooking Class (perfect for food lovers)

• Naxos Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch (an unforgettable experience)

A scenic view of Naxos Town and the harbor, featuring fishing boats anchoring in the water on a sunny day

➡️ Check out my complete Naxos Travel Guide for our detailed Naxos itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

Day 12 – 16: Santorini

An island hopping trip in the Cyclades wouldn’t be complete without visiting Santorini! It’s probably the most iconic island in the Cyclades and an absolute must-visit destination!

Santorini is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, stunning landscapes, and picturesque villages perched atop dramatic cliffs. I can totally understand why Santorini is so popular – I completely fell in love with its unique beauty and romantic atmosphere.

The iconic orange Kastro Oia Houses in Oia, Santorini, built on a hill.
The charming Amoudi Bay in Santorini, featuring small fishing boats anchoring in the crystal-clear waters, seafront restaurants, and red cliffs in the background.
A photo of me sitting at the viewpoint of Oia Castle, surrounded by white-washed buildings, a charming windmill, and the sea in the background.

The island’s main towns of Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia offer enchanting experiences, from strolling through picturesque alleys leading along whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches to admiring panoramic views of the caldera.

Insider tip: For a taste of Santorini’s culinary delights, head to Amoudi Bay for a seafood lunch by the water, or enjoy a wine tasting experience at one of the island’s wineries.

Don’t miss the chance to experience a mesmerizing sunset cruise in Oia, where you can sail along the coast and witness the sun dipping below the horizon in a blaze of colors. Santorini truly promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking memories!

Santorini: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Aqua Luxury Suites

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Santorini

📌 Top Places to Visit: Oia, Imerovigli, Fira, Pyrgos

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours:

• Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise (my top tip!)

• Santorini Wine Tasting Tour (perfect for wine lovers)

• Santorini Highlights Tour (private customized Santorini tour)

• Iconic Santorini Flying Dress Photo Shoot (a once in a lifetime experience!)

A photo of me enjoying tbe breathtaking view of a blue-domed church, with picturesque villages perched along the rugged cliffs and the sea in the background.
A white bell tower with a blue dome overlooking the Aegean Sea, with a boat and a few islets in the background.
A photo of me wearing a white dress, posing in front of the famous Blue Domes in Oia, Santorini.

➡️ Check out my complete Santorini Travel Guide for our detailed Santorini itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

Day 16 – 21: Milos

The Greek island of Milos is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, iconic beaches, laid-back vibes, and dreamy Greek villages. Milos boasts an abundance of natural beauty and cultural treasures that make it a must-visit destination.

A breathtaking aerial view of Sarakiniko Beach reveals its stunning white cliffs contrasting against the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Sarakiniko Beach with its impressive white cliffs contrasting against the vibrant turquoise waters below.

The island is steeped in history and mythology, with archaeological sites scattered across the island. You can explore ancient ruins, including the ancient theater and the catacombs of Milos, which offer fascinating insights into the island’s past.

Additionally, Milos is blessed with an array of breathtaking beaches, ranging from secluded coves and hidden bays to expansive stretches of golden sand. Some must-visit beaches include Sarakiniko, with its unique moon-like landscape; Firiplaka, known for its crystal-clear waters and colorful cliffs; and Kleftiko, accessible only by boat and renowned for its dramatic rock formations.

Milos is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring its rugged coastline. With its diverse attractions, you can easily spend one week in Milos, immersing yourself in the island’s charm and beauty.

Milos: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Kedros Milos Suites

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Milos

📌 Top Places to Visit: Adamas, Plaka, Klima, Mandrakia, Sarakiniko, Firiplaka Beach, Tsigrado Beach, Kleftiko

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours:

• Polyaigos Sailing Tour (including Kleftiko, my top tip!)

• Kleftiko Sailing Cruise (an amazing sailing trip)

• Milos Archaeology and Culture Tour (see the highlights of Milos)

• Milos Kayaking Tour (includes Tsigrado Beach and Gerakas Beach)

• Milos Highlights Tour on an Electric Bike (amazing bike tour)

Small boats anchoring in the crystal-clear waters of a picturesque bay in Milos.
Dreamy view of a white church set against the backdrop of the shimmering sea and a breathtaking sunset.

➡️ My complete Milos Travel Guide, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips will be published soon!

Alternative Cyclades Island Hopping Itineraries

If you find yourself short on time but still eager to experience the magic of the Cyclades, there are plenty of alternative Greek island hopping routes tailored to suit your individual schedule and preferences. Whether you have two weeks, ten days, or only one week to spare, below you’ll find some alternative Cyclades Island hopping routes and suggestions for maximizing your time in the Cyclades.

Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary 7 Days

If you have just one week to explore the Cyclades, I highly recommend visiting the iconic islands of Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of charming Greek towns, stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, allowing you to experience the highlights of the Cyclades in a limited timeframe.

Sunset at the waterfront of Naoussa, Paros, with fishing boats anchoring in the harbor amidst charming tavernas.

Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary 10 Days

For a 10-day island hopping adventure in the Cyclades, I recommend the following itinerary, which includes visits to Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, and Santorini:

A scenic view of Naxos Town, featuring a stone walkway leading to the heart of the town, with blue, wavy waters flanking both sides.

Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary 2 Weeks

With 14 days in the Cyclades, you can explore the same islands as suggested in our 3-week itinerary, but with a shorter stay on each island.

A mesmerizing sunset in Oia, where white-washed houses and windmills cascade down a hillside, framed by vibrant pink flowers in the foreground.

Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary 1 Month

For an extended stay of one month in the Cyclades Islands, I highly recommend venturing off the beaten path and adding some lesser-known islands and hidden gems to your island hopping itinerary. In addition to the previously mentioned islands, here are my personal recommendations:

Visit Ios

Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, the charming island of Ios features a lovely main town, picturesque landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and crystal-clear waters. Despite its small size, Ios offers plenty of activities.

One of the island’s main draws is its stunning beaches, such as Mylopotas Beach and Manganari Beach, which boast golden sands and azure waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Additionally, you can explore the island’s rich history at sites like the ancient ruins of Skarkos and the Venetian Castle of Ios, offering insights into the island’s past.

Having explored Ios during our most recent island hopping trip in the Cyclades, I wholeheartedly recommend adding this enchanting island to your itinerary.

Ios: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Liostasi

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Ios

📌 Top Places to Visit: Chora, Mylopotas, Manganari Beach, Koumbara Beach, Skarkos

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours:

• Ios 4-Hour Cruise of the Best Beaches (my top tip!)

• Ios Snorkeling Cruise (an unforgettable experience)

A charming snapshot of me exploring Ios Town, with its iconic blue-domed churches and gleaming white houses.
Ios Town showcasing typical white houses, and cobblestone alleys, adorned with vibrant blooming bougainvilleas.
A charming white house with vibrant blue doors and windows, and a blooming bougainvillea tree adding a pop of color in the foreground.

➡️ Check out my complete Ios Travel Guide for our detailed Ios itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

Visit Syros

Syros, the capital island of the Cyclades, is a true hidden gem! Often overlooked by international tourists, Syros has a unique charm with its blend of traditional Greek culture and relaxed atmosphere.

One of the island’s main attractions is its picturesque main town, Ermoupoli, characterized by its neoclassical architecture, iconic churches, and vibrant waterfront. For a taste of local cuisine and culture, wander through the bustling streets and sample delicious Greek specialties at the tavernas and cafes.

Syros also features beautiful beaches, such as Galissas Beach and Kini Beach, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the Mediterranean sun. With its undeniable charm and rich history, Syros is one of the best-kept secrets in the Aegean and a destination that captured my heart from the moment I arrived.

Syros: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Syros Soul Luxury Suites

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Syros

📌 Top Places to Visit: Ermoupoli, Ano Syros, Kini Beach, Galissas Beach

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

A photo of me enjoying the sun in Syros, with the iconic church of Ermoupoli in the background.
A photo of me strolling through the streets of Ermoupoli, with its charming neoclassical buildings.
Me, enjoying the serene waterfront view with the iconic church of Ermoupoli in the background.

➡️ Check out my complete Syros Travel Guide for our detailed Syros itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

Visit Tinos

The Cyclades Island of Tinos is known for its religious significance, traditional architecture, authentic atmosphere, and unspoiled beauty. One of the island’s most famous attractions is the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, a major pilgrimage site and home to the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. Pilgrims flock to Tinos to pay their respects and seek blessings, especially during the Feast of the Assumption on August 15th.

Beyond its religious sites, Tinos offers plenty of attractions to explore. Make sure to wander through the charming streets of Tinos Town, adorned with marble-paved squares, whitewashed houses, and traditional tavernas serving local delicacies.

Also, don’t miss the chance to visit the picturesque villages of Pyrgos and Volax, known for their marble craftsmanship, and discover the stunning mountain villages of Kardiani and Isternia, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Additionally, Tinos features beautiful beaches like Agios Fokas Beach and Kolimpithra Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Tinos: Quick Tips

🛏️ Accommodation: Stay at Orion Suites

🚘 Car Rental: Find the best Car Rental Companies in Tinos

📌 Top Places to Visit: Tinos Town, Pyrgos, Panormos, Volax, Agios Fokas Beach

📲 Stay Connected: Get your Europe eSIM

⛵ Best Experiences & Tours: Tinos Winery Tour & Wine Tasting (my top tip!)

A photo of me standing in front of a turquoise door framed by a giant blooming bougainvillea tree
Traditional white Cycladic buildings in Tinos standing against the shimmering backdrop of the Aegean Sea.
A quaint café in Tinos with small tables, a charming pink door, and delicate pink flowers.

➡️ Check out my complete Tinos Travel Guide for our detailed Tinos itinerary, including the best things to do, must-visit places, and my top insider tips!

I hope you enjoyed reading our comprehensive Cyclades travel guide, filled with different Greek island hopping ideas and itineraries. I’m sure that our insider tips and recommendations will help you plan the perfect Cyclades Island hopping adventure.

Whether you’re drawn to the iconic islands of Santorini and Mykonos or the hidden gems of Syros and Tinos, the Cyclades are the perfect place for creating memories to cherish for a lifetime. It’s one of our favorite destinations in Europe and we already can’t wait to return for our next Greek island hopping trip!

FAQ – Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary

How long do you need for Greek island hopping?

To fully enjoy the Cyclades, plan for at least 2-3 weeks to explore the islands you visit thoroughly and to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of each island.

How to plan Greek island hopping?

Start by selecting your desired islands, considering factors like transportation, ferry schedules, accommodation, your budget, and your personal interests. I highly recommend booking accommodations, ferries, and tours in advance for smoother planning.

Which Greek Island is the best base for island hopping?

Mykonos and Santorini serve as excellent bases due to their well-connected ports and airports. Plus, both islands offer frequent ferries to nearby Cyclades Islands.

What are the Cyclades Islands famous for?

The Cyclades are known for their picturesque towns, beautiful beaches, rich culture & history, and quintessential Greek Island vibes.

What is the most beautiful village in the Cyclades?

In my opinion, the most beautiful towns in the Cyclades are Oia in Santorini, Naoussa in Paros, and Ermoupoli in Syros.

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Best Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary
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Founder of Simply Madeleine

Madeleine is the storyteller and globetrotter behind Simply Madeleine, a travel blog focusing on bucket list destinations, memorable travel itineraries, and unique travel experiences. She travels the world full-time together with her fiancé. Together they have explored over 25 countries. On this blog, Madeleine shares detailed travel guides of the places they have visited, including the best things to do and the best hotels to stay. Originally from Germany, Madeleine has lived in many different countries around the world and is now based on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. She is a blogger, content creator, beach lover, and passionate photographer.