White villages, turquoise water and sunsets: the Cyclades are explored island by island, by ferry. This ten-day itinerary starts in Athens and links three complementary islands.
Itinerary: Athens and three Cyclades islands
- Days 1 and 2: Athens: the Acropolis, Plaka and Anafiotika
- Days 3 to 5: Paros: Naoussa, Parikia and the beaches
- Days 6 and 7: Naxos: its mountain villages and long beaches
- Days 8 to 10: Santorini: the caldera, Oia and the southern villages, then fly or sail back
When to go
May, June and September are the best months: the sea is pleasant and the islands quieter. In July and August, the north wind (meltemi) can be strong and disrupt some ferries. Out of season, many hotels and routes close.
Getting around
Ferries link Piraeus or Rafina with the islands, and the islands with each other. Fast boats cost more but take less time. On each island, rent a scooter, a quad or a small car, or use the local buses.
Our tips
- Book ferries in advance in summer, especially to Santorini
- Keep a buffer before your flight home in case of rough seas
- Pick two or three islands rather than rushing through too many
- Stay outside Fira and Oia for gentler prices on Santorini
Plan this trip with Voyage : mon guide
Add each stop with its number of nights: the app creates the days and puts the whole route on an Apple Maps map. Keep beaches, villages and tavernas in the ideas box, log flights, trains and rentals on the right day, then prepare the trip for offline use before leaving. Once there, Guide mode shows the current day and tonight’s hotel.
Frequently asked questions
How many islands in ten days?
Two or three, to enjoy each one without spending your time on boats.
Can I swap Santorini?
Yes: Milos, Folegandros or Sifnos are quieter and just as beautiful.
Plan this itinerary with Voyage : mon guide.
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