The Cyclades means Sacred Islands around Delos.
Their beauty and dazzling light can bring a sense of spirituality. Viewed from above, the Greek Cyclades form a stunning mosaic – dozens of green islands floating in the impossibly blue Aegean Sea.
It is an amazing formation that was created thanks to geological changes millions of years ago. According to Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, was so angry at the behavior of the Cyclades nymphs that he turned them into islands.
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They are at their most beautiful in May and still stunning during the summer months. For most of the year, the wild, rugged volcanic landscape remains white with the sugar cubes of Cycladic architecture, which looks amazing against the dark or green background with the deep blue sea touching their shores. Here are six suggestions.
1. Santorini
Some say that the most beautiful and popular island of this Aegean archipelago is Santorini. Everyone has seen that iconic image — you know, the one with the blue-domed church on the cliffs, which stands out among the bright white architecture against the blue sky and sea. Ships stop there, weddings are held there just for the beautiful photos, and vacationers climb the 13th-century castle walls for the best sunset view.
There are beaches, a pebble one in Kamari and a black sand one in Perissa and Karterados, which are surrounded by sharp cliffs and the bright light typical of the Cyclades — it can be enchanting. The hillside towns of Fira and Oia are picturesque with sometimes steep steps and winding streets that are perfect for afternoon exploration.
And in the evening, the rooftop terraces of restaurants are full of light and life with people enjoying food and drink under the open sky in the warm night air. This island is about relaxation and elegance. Just ask Angelina Jolie. She spent a month here after filming her second Tomb Raider movie.
2. Mykonos
Bare hills, sandy beaches, and a shiny atmosphere make up this 86-square-kilometer island. There are only about 10,000 locals, but the island is filled with thousands of tourists who want to have fun. Nightclubs are on every corner, there are several pubs and shops that are open all night.
This is a party island, and its most famous beach, Paradise Beach, has its share of nightclubs, a campsite, and several restaurants. Nearby is Super Paradise, a gay nudist beach that may not be for everyone. For a bit of peace and quiet, head to Agia Ana, although it may seem less developed. Its main town, Hóra, is full of fashion shops, but it’s better not to go there between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM when cruise ships stop there.
3. Naxos
This is the largest of the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, and when you arrive by boat, you will see its most famous archaeological site — the Portara, the gateway to the ancient temple of Apollo built in 522 BC. The island is home to the highest mountain in the Cyclades — Mount Zeus — which is the source of many myths.
It is said that this was the wedding island of Dionysus, the god of wine. That is why there is a sanctuary dedicated to him there. Its coast is full of amazing beaches, some of them hidden. Mikri and Vila in the west are popular with windsurfers.
Inland, it is incredibly mountainous, and villages seem to emerge from fertile valleys, and there are many fields and olive groves. Its port is in the main town, where several streets lead steeply up to the citadel, which is visible for miles, and elsewhere there are old churches, monasteries, and Venetian castles and houses.
4. Paros
Paros, a ferry hub and a beautiful Venetian port, is considered one of the most beautiful islands, defined by its beaches and picturesque villages. Parikia is the main town and port of the island. One of the most interesting is the town of Naoussa. It was once an old fishing village, but who would know? Today, it is a popular cosmopolitan holiday destination. For a bit of culture, visit the blue-domed Byzantine Museum.
5. Ios
This island may have 365 churches, but for young people, it is an island full of fun. It offers an intense nightlife, and beach parties that start early and last all night on Mylopotas beach are not uncommon. This kilometer-long stretch of beach is full of bars and restaurants and plenty of water sports, but there are also quieter options at Valmas or Kolitsani beach.
The island also has quiet hillside villages, such as Chora, probably the most picturesque in the entire Cyclades. The views from its highest point are simply breathtaking.
By the way, it is said that Homer’s mother was from Ios, and he himself was buried there.
6. Delos
You cannot spend the night on Delos, but you should visit it. This World Heritage site, located in the middle of the archipelago, is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and was the religious center of all of Greece in ancient times. Remarkable monuments, such as the Minoan Fountain and the Temple of the Delians, and impressive mosaics are definitely worth the ferry trip.