Exploring

ATHENS & THE greek ISLANDS

If you’re planning to extend your stay or just want to explore beyond Santorini, we’ve curated a list of the must-visit islands with tips on how to get there. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, or picturesque villages, there’s an island for every type of traveler.

Getting Around

Getting from Santorini to most of these islands is simple! The most common ways to travel between the islands are by ferry or flight. Ferries can be booked directly at the port or online, and they offer both slow boats for a scenic journey and faster boats for a quicker transfer. Flights from Santorini to larger islands like Crete and Mykonos are also available, typically lasting around 40 minutes.

ATHENS

Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is a vibrant city where ancient landmarks meet contemporary art, food, and entertainment.

Must-See Attractions:

The Acropolis: Home to the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion.
Tip: Visit the Acropolis Museum for ancient artifacts.
Plaka Neighborhood: Stroll through narrow streets filled with cafes, boutiques, and Anafiotika’s island-style charm.
The Ancient Agora: Discover the heart of ancient Athenian life with highlights like the Temple of Hephaestus.
Mount Lycabettus: Enjoy panoramic city views from Athens’ highest point.

Hidden Gems:

Monastiraki Flea Market: Hunt for antiques, books, and handmade goods.
Ermou Street: A haven for fashion enthusiasts, with a mix of designer and local boutiques.

Dining & Entertainment:

Rooftop restaurants like Kuzina in Thissio for dinner with Acropolis views.
Traditional taverns in Plaka for authentic Greek cuisine.

Mykonos

Accessible by: Plane and Ferry from Santorini (2 hrs.) & Athens
Vibe: Party Paradise 🌟
Why Visit: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, stylish beach clubs, and iconic windmills, Mykonos is the ultimate destination for those seeking excitement. Mykonos Town offers charming streets filled with upscale dining, boutique shopping, and Instagram-worthy spots. Whether you want to lounge by the beach during the day or dance the night away, this island delivers luxury and energy.
Ideal For: Couples seeking excitement, party-goers, beach lovers

Paros

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (2hr., 15min.) & Athens
Vibe: Chic & Laid-back 🌸
Why Visit: Paros offers a balance of tranquil charm and stylish energy. Explore the picturesque villages, sandy beaches, and vibrant towns like Naoussa, which is famous for its waterfront dining. The island is also a hub for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts.
Ideal For: Couples, beach lovers, active travelers

Naxos

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (1hr.,10min.) & Athens
Vibe: Authentic & Tranquil 🌿
Why Visit: Known for its mix of culture, nature, and pristine beaches, Naxos is perfect for families and travelers looking for an authentic Greek experience. Visit ancient ruins, traditional villages, and long sandy beaches. The lush landscapes and slower pace make it a peaceful retreat.
Ideal For: Families, culture lovers, hikers

Ios

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (35 min.) & Athens
Vibe: Fun & Youthful 🕺
Why Visit: Ios is renowned for its lively nightlife and beach parties that attract a younger crowd. Beyond the clubs and bars, the island offers stunning beaches, scenic landscapes, and charming Chora village for those seeking a mix of relaxation and excitement.
Ideal For: Young travelers, party-goers, beach lovers

Milos

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (1 hr., 45min.) & Athens
Vibe: Unique Landscapes & Relaxing 🌿
Why Visit: Famous for its stunning, otherworldly beaches like Sarakiniko, Milos combines volcanic landscapes with serene seaside villages. It’s perfect for couples and nature enthusiasts who want to explore hidden caves, multicolored cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
Ideal For: Couples, photographers, nature lovers

Crete

Accessible by: Plane and ferry from Santorini (1hr., 35 min.) & Athens
Vibe: Diverse & Historic 🏛️
Why Visit: Greece’s largest island offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. Explore ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos, hike the Samaria Gorge, or relax on beautiful beaches such as Elafonissi. Crete is also known for its incredible food and vibrant cities like Chania.
Ideal For: History buffs, adventure seekers, foodies

Rhodes

Accessible by: Plane (45 mins) and ferry (6-8 hrs) from Santorini & Athens
Vibe: Historical & Mediterranean 🌞
Why Visit: Rhodes combines history, culture, and beach life. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, explore medieval castles, and relax on the island’s gorgeous beaches. With diverse terrain and beautiful views of the Aegean, Rhodes offers something for everyone.
Ideal For: History lovers, culture seekers, beachgoers

Sifnos

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (2 hrs., 35 min.) & Athens
Vibe: Peaceful & Culinary 🍽️
Why Visit: Sifnos is a haven for foodies, offering amazing local cuisine and a tranquil atmosphere. Hike scenic trails, explore traditional villages, and enjoy a slower pace. The island is famous for its chickpea soup and charming tavernas.
Ideal For: Foodies, couples, hikers

Folegandros

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (1 hr.)
Vibe: Secluded & Scenic 🌄
Why Visit: Perfect for solitude seekers, Folegandros offers dramatic cliffs, pristine waters, and a peaceful vibe. Explore hiking trails, take in breathtaking views, and enjoy the charming simplicity of this lesser-known gem.
Ideal For: Couples, nature lovers, solitude seekers

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Zakynthos

Accessible by: Plane or Ferry from Athens or ferry (not direct) from Santorini
Vibe: Natural Beauty & Iconic Views 🌅
Why Visit: Home to the famous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos boasts turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a versatile island, ideal for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Ideal For: Nature lovers, beach lovers, photographers

Corfu (Kerkyra)

Accessible by: Plane and ferry (not direct) from Santorini & Athens
Vibe: Venetian Charm & Lush Greenery 🌳
Why Visit: Corfu combines Venetian-style architecture with natural beauty. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit historical fortresses, and relax on sandy beaches or lush hillsides. Its cosmopolitan feel is paired with traditional charm.
Ideal For: History buffs, culture seekers, nature lovers

Exploring

ATHENS & THE greek ISLANDS

If you’re planning to extend your stay or just want to explore beyond Santorini, we’ve curated a list of the must-visit islands with tips on how to get there. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, or picturesque villages, there’s an island for every type of traveler.

Getting Around

​​ATHENS

Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is a vibrant city where ancient landmarks meet contemporary art, food, and entertainment.

The Acropolis: Home to the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. Tip: Visit the Acropolis Museum for ancient artifacts.

Plaka Neighborhood: Stroll through narrow streets filled with cafes, boutiques, and Anafiotika’s island-style charm.

The Ancient Agora: Discover the heart of ancient Athenian life with highlights like the Temple of Hephaestus.

Mount Lycabettus: Enjoy panoramic city views from Athens’ highest point.

Monastiraki Flea Market: Hunt for antiques, books, and handmade goods.

Ermou Street: A haven for fashion enthusiasts, with a mix of designer and local boutiques.

Rooftop restaurants like Kuzina in Thissio for dinner with Acropolis views.

Traditional taverns in Plaka for authentic Greek cuisine.

Mykonos

Accessible by: Plane and Ferry from Santorini (2 hrs.) & Athens

Vibe: Party Paradise 🌟

Ideal For: Couples seeking excitement, party-goers, beach lovers

Paros

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (2hr., 15min.) & Athens

Vibe: Chic & Laid-back 🌸

Why Visit: Paros offers a balance of tranquil charm and stylish energy. Explore the picturesque villages, sandy beaches, and vibrant towns like Naoussa, which is famous for its waterfront dining. The island is also a hub for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts.

Ideal For: Couples, beach lovers, active travelers

Naxos

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (1hr.,10min.) & Athens

Vibe: Authentic & Tranquil 🌿

Why Visit: Known for its mix of culture, nature, and pristine beaches, Naxos is perfect for families and travelers looking for an authentic Greek experience. Visit ancient ruins, traditional villages, and long sandy beaches. The lush landscapes and slower pace make it a peaceful retreat.

Ideal For: Families, culture lovers, hikers

Ios

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (35 min.) & Athens

Vibe: Fun & Youthful 🕺

Why Visit: Ios is renowned for its lively nightlife and beach parties that attract a younger crowd. Beyond the clubs and bars, the island offers stunning beaches, scenic landscapes, and charming Chora village for those seeking a mix of relaxation and excitement.

Ideal For: Young travelers, party-goers, beach lovers

Milos

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (1 hr., 45min.) & Athens

Vibe: Unique Landscapes & Relaxing 🌿

Why Visit: Famous for its stunning, otherworldly beaches like Sarakiniko, Milos combines volcanic landscapes with serene seaside villages. It’s perfect for couples and nature enthusiasts who want to explore hidden caves, multicolored cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.

Ideal For: Couples, photographers, nature lovers

Crete

Accessible by: Plane and ferry from Santorini (1hr., 35 min.) & Athens

Vibe: Diverse & Historic 🏛️

Why Visit: Greece’s largest island offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. Explore ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos, hike the Samaria Gorge, or relax on beautiful beaches such as Elafonissi. Crete is also known for its incredible food and vibrant cities like Chania.

Ideal For: History buffs, adventure seekers, foodies

Rhodes

Accessible by: Plane (45 mins) and ferry (6-8 hrs) from Santorini & Athens

Vibe: Historical & Mediterranean 🌞

Why Visit: Rhodes combines history, culture, and beach life. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, explore medieval castles, and relax on the island’s gorgeous beaches. With diverse terrain and beautiful views of the Aegean, Rhodes offers something for everyone.

Ideal For: History lovers, culture seekers, beachgoers

Sifnos

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (2 hrs., 35 min.) & Athens

Vibe: Peaceful & Culinary 🍽️

Why Visit: Sifnos is a haven for foodies, offering amazing local cuisine and a tranquil atmosphere. Hike scenic trails, explore traditional villages, and enjoy a slower pace. The island is famous for its chickpea soup and charming tavernas.

Ideal For: Foodies, couples, hikers

Folegandros

Accessible by: Ferry from Santorini (1 hr.)

Vibe: Secluded & Scenic 🌄

Why Visit: Perfect for solitude seekers, Folegandros offers dramatic cliffs, pristine waters, and a peaceful vibe. Explore hiking trails, take in breathtaking views, and enjoy the charming simplicity of this lesser-known gem.

Ideal For: Couples, nature lovers, solitude seekers

Zakynthos

Accessible by: Plane or Ferry from Athens or ferry (not direct) from Santorini

Vibe: Natural Beauty & Iconic Views 🌅

Why Visit: Home to the famous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos boasts turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a versatile island, ideal for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Ideal For: Nature lovers, beach lovers, photographers

​​​​​​​​​​​​Corfu (Kerkyra)

Accessible by: Plane and ferry (not direct) from Santorini & Athens

Vibe: Venetian Charm & Lush Greenery 🌳

Why Visit: Corfu combines Venetian-style architecture with natural beauty. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit historical fortresses, and relax on sandy beaches or lush hillsides. Its cosmopolitan feel is paired with traditional charm.

Ideal For: History buffs, culture seekers, nature lovers

ATHENS

The Acropolis: Home to the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion.
Tip: Visit the Acropolis Museum for ancient artifacts.

Corfu (Kerkyra)