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Travel Guides about Cyclades

With a trip to the Cyclades you can explore charming villages, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and try delicious Greek cuisine. These travel guides about the Cyclades can help you discover hidden gems, plan your itinerary, and make the most of your island-hopping journey.
 
When to visit
The best time to visit Cyclades is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October)
Currency
The Currency of Cyclades is Euro. 1 Euro is equivalent to 1,07 USD.
Kythnos, Cyclades

Kythnos, Cyclades

Milos

Milos

Milos

Milos

Cyclades
Epirus
Ionian Islands

Weather in Cyclades

The warmest months in the Cyclades are July and August, making them the most popular time for swimming, sailing, and exploring the islands’ iconic whitewashed villages. For a quieter experience and fewer crowds, consider visiting in May, June, or September, when the temperatures are still warm, and the Aegean Sea is nice for swimming.

12°C

🌦️

Jan

12°C

🌦️

Feb

13°C

🌦️

Mar

16°C

🌥️

Apr

20°C

☀️

May

24°C

☀️

Jun

27°C

☀️

Jul

27°C

☀️

Aug

24°C

☀️

Sep

20°C

🌥️

Oct

16°C

🌦️

Nov

13°C

🌦️

Dec

Best Activities in Winter
  • Capture the beauty of iconic landmarks like Mykonos churches or Santorini’s caldera views without the crowds.
  • Experience traditional Greek culture and cuisine during winter festivals or village celebrations.
Best Activities in Spring
  • Explore scenic trails, such as those on Naxos or Amorgos, with blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures.
  • Visit archaeological sites like Delos or explore quiet villages with fewer tourists.
Best Activities in Summer
  • Relax on beaches like Kolona beach in Kythnos or Santorini’s Red Beach.
  • Enjoy windsurfing, sailing, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear Aegean waters.
Best Activities in Autumn
  • Sample local wines at vineyards on Santorini or Paros.
  • Take advantage of the cooler weather and fewer crowds to explore smaller, less-touristy islands.

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The most popular islands are Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, and Ios.

You can travel between the islands by ferry, with many routes available during the high season; speedboats are also an option for faster travel.

Yes, renting a car or scooter is a popular way to explore the islands; however, parking is limited in busy areas.

Activities include visiting beautiful beaches, exploring charming villages, hiking scenic trails, enjoying water sports, and sampling local cuisine.

Be sure to try local specialties such as fresh seafood, moussaka, fava beans from Santorini, and traditional Greek salads.

The Cyclades are home to several hidden gems. Milos is famous for its stunning volcanic landscapes, Folegandros features charming villages with traditional Cycladic architecture, and Sikinos remains largely untouched by mass tourism.

How to Get There

By Airplane

The Cyclades are primarily accessed via Athens International Airport (ATH), which serves as the main gateway to Greece. From Athens, you can take domestic flights to islands with airports, such as Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, or Naxos. Seasonal international flights also connect directly to Santorini and Mykonos from major European cities.

By Ferry

Ferries are the most popular way to reach and travel between the Cyclades islands. Piraeus and Rafina ports in Athens offer frequent ferries to islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Milos. High-speed ferries reduce travel time, while standard ferries are more budget-friendly. Inter-island connections make it easy to explore multiple destinations within the Cyclades.

 

How to Get Around

Ferries

Ferries remain the best way to explore multiple islands in the Cyclades. Purchase tickets in advance during the high season to secure a spot on popular routes.

Buses

Public buses operate on larger islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos, connecting major towns, beaches, and attractions. They are affordable and run frequently during summer.

Car or Scooter Rentals

Renting a car or scooter is ideal for exploring smaller villages, remote beaches, and inland areas. Rental services are widely available but book early during peak season.

Taxis

Taxis are available in the larger islands, though they can be expensive. Ride-sharing apps may have limited coverage, depending on the island.

Cycling

Some islands, such as Paros and Antiparos, are suitable for cycling, with bike rentals available locally.

 

SIM Card Options

Local SIM Cards

Buy SIM cards at Athens International Airport or local shops on larger islands. Popular providers include:

  • Cosmote: Excellent coverage and fast 4G service.
  • Vodafone Greece: Affordable data plans and good island coverage.
  • Wind Hellas: Budget-friendly options, though coverage may vary.

eSIM Card Options

  • Airalo: Offers eSIM plans tailored for Greece with flexible data options.
  • Holafly: Provides unlimited data eSIMs for short trips.
  • Nomad: Offers affordable plans for Greece and other European countries.

What to pack for Cyclades

  • Lightweight clothing
  • Swimwear
  • Sunhat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for the beach
  • Light jacket
  • Beach towel
  • Toiletries
  • Power bank
  • Camera
  • Beach bag
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Passport

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Cyclades Suggested Daily Budget

on-budget-icon

On Budget

€30 - €50 per day

On a backpacker budget, you can stay in hostel dorms or budget guesthouses, enjoy simple meals from local markets or street vendors, and use public transportation to get around. This budget allows you to explore beautiful beaches, hike scenic trails, and visit charming villages without spending much. To save even more, consider cooking some meals if your accommodation has kitchen facilities and take advantage of free activities like swimming and walking tours.

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Mid-range

€90 - €150 per day

With a mid-range budget, you can stay in private rooms at guesthouses or mid-range hotels and eat at local restaurants for most meals. With this budget, you can participate in activities like guided tours of historical sites, wine tastings, and water sports. You can also take occasional taxis or ferries to explore different islands. To make the most of your trip, look for lunch specials at restaurants and consider booking activities in advance for better rates.

on-budget-icon

Luxury

€400+ per day

On a luxury budget, you can enjoy high-end accommodations in boutique hotels or resorts with stunning views. You can eat at gourmet restaurants, do exclusive activities like private yacht charters or personalized tours, and enjoy spa treatments. This budget allows for premium experiences such as helicopter rides over the islands. You can also consider renting a car or using speed boats to visit more islands in the area.