Five of the best Greek islands in the Cyclades

Everyone wants to know the best Greek islands, right? We've done the hard work for you and rounded up our lesser-known favourites in the Cyclades.

By Pól Ó Conghaile
Published 2 Apr 2019, 15:49 BST, Updated 13 Sept 2021, 10:28 BST

From Ios to Paros, we list the five best lesser-known Greek islands in the Cyclades.

Photograph by Getty Images

1. Ios

The island's friendly port of Gaios, blissful beaches and party reputation make it one of the most popular Cyclades islands, but you can easily slip away from the partying crowds by exploring hills, beaches and sugar-cube villages. It's also said to be the birthplace of Homer.

2. Folegandros

Around an hour by ferry from Santorini, it's an island few will recognise, but that's just perfect if you're looking to go a little off-radar in the Western Cyclades. Vertiginous cliffs are its most famous feature (the white-washed Hora is perched atop of one).

3. Delos

A short trip from Mykonos, Delos is said to be the birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has a wealth of ancient monuments and mosaics and is famous as an ancient Greek religious and commercial centre. 

4. Amorgos

You want off-the-beaten-track? Head to the Small Cyclades, 'behind' Naxos. Beyond those, at the chain's most southeasterly point, lies Amorgos. Beautiful walking, vibrant village life and few visitors (outside of July and August) await. Take a ferry from Naxos.

5. Paros

A short spin from Naxos in the Eastern Cyclades, Paros is a great hub for summer ferry-hopping. Windsurfing and a range of quiet beaches are reasons to linger. Antiparos and its cave, with graffiti from the 1700s, is a 10-minute ferry ride away.

Published in the April 2018 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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