Cyclades Islands, Greece

A map of the Cyclades islands in Greece.  Athens (a good point of reference) is located in the northwest corner.

A typical street in the main town in Ios.

The main (and only) town on the island of Ios.

Posing near the cliffs on the east side of Santorini.

A typical Greek Orthodox church style in Oia, Santorini.

The beautiful cliff side properties of Oia, Santorini.



 

               A trip to Greece wouldn’t be complete without two things: a visit to the Acropolis and a few days relaxing on the islands.  While we tend to think of all the islands as the same (they’re not), the group that have been popularized through media and tourism are the group known as the Cyclades. 

                Sitting southeast of mainland Greece, these 200 plus islands compromise the majority of Greek island tourism for several reasons: proximity to the mainland, popularity with tourism, and beauty.  These are the islands of your dreams, and different islands cater to different interests.  Ios and Mykonos are known for 20 something partiers, Santorini is a lovers retreat and has an abundance of cruise liner tourists, and Kea is a sleepier island better suited for peace and quiet. 

                Sailing, diving, wine tastings, shopping, beaches, parties, are major focal points for these islands.  I spent six days on the islands of Ios and Santorini soaking in the sunsets and beaches before returning back to Athens.  During the summer months, travel between the islands is convenient and comfortable, but you should book your tickets ahead.