My Cyclades Itinerary 10 Days | Santorini, Paros & Naxos
Are you looking for the best Cyclades island hopping itinerary? You came to the right place!
Island hopping in the Cyclades was the highlight of my Greece trip, and I’m here to share the best itinerary for exploring these stunning islands without breaking the bank.
While Mykonos and Santorini are famously pricey, affordable gems like Paros and Naxos offer just as much charm and adventure.
Let’s get started with your 10 days Cyclades itinerary!
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Overview: Cyclades Islands Hopping Itinerary
Length: 10 days, 9 nights
Start And End Point: Santorini to Paros
Places To Visit: Santorini, Naxos, Koufonisia, Paros, Antiparos
- DAY 1: Santorini
- DAY 2: Santorini
- DAY 3: Santorini to Naxos (travel day)
- DAY 4: Naxos
- DAY 5: Naxos
- DAY 6: Naxos sailing day
- DAY 7: Naxos to Paros (travel day)
- DAY 8: Paros
- DAY 9: Antiparos day trip
- DAY 10: Paros to Athens (travel day)
If you have 10 days in the Cyclades, I think these islands are a perfect combination of dynamic and tranquil.
Also, this itinerary is perfect for backpacking in Greece, as you can easily reach Athens to discover other areas of the country.
You will get to experience the most well-known island of Santorini and then enjoy the serene beaches of Antiparos.
If you want to party, you can also add Ios and Mykonos. However, I visited in September when the party scene was quiet there.
⛴️You’ll have to take ferries to get around the Cyclades.
Book your ferry tickets here to ensure you get the best prices!
How To Choose which Cyclades islands to visit?
The Cyclades consist of 39 islands, out of which 24 are inhabited.
It is hard to say which are the best Cyclades islands because all of those islands offer something different.
It is true what you read that each one of the Cyclades islands has a different vibe.
| POPULAR | BUDGET | QUIET |
|---|---|---|
| Santorini | Naxos | Amorgos |
| Mykonos | Ios | Andros |
| Milos | Paros | Koufonisia |
I recommend choosing one from each category—or, if you prefer a livelier vibe, one from the first and two from the second like I did.
DAY 1-3: SANTORINI
The first stop on your Cyclades itinerary is 3 days in Santorini.
You can fly to Santorini from abroad, making it a perfect place to start island hopping in the Cyclades.
I think Santorini is worth the hype. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Greece, and that is not for no reason!
It is one of those places you see on postcards and in luxurious travel magazines.
Where to stay in Santorini
Your biggest expense in Santorini will be the accommodation. Generally, the caldera side is more expensive than the beach side.
I stayed in both Fira and Perissa, but for two nights I suggest staying around Fira if you can find something in your budget.
I covered the differences between different towns in Santorini here.
Overall, here are the best places to stay in Santorini:
- TOP Pick: Caldera Cliff Illusion
- Best Mid-Range Option: Markakis Studios Fira Town
- Best backpacker hostel: Bedspot Hostel
Best things to do in Santorini
It is possible to visit Santorini on a budget! Which is great news for all the backpackers.
A local bus connects all the towns on the island, so there is no need to book a car or a taxi. You can visit all the sites by public transport.
1. Explore Fira
The capital of Santorini Fira is a beautiful place to walk around. It is free to enjoy the view and wander the cobblestone streets.
2. Explore Oia
Oia is considered to be the most romantic place on the island, and you will notice a lot of couples and restaurants.
It is no surprise that one of the most popular things to do there is to watch the sunset! There are a couple of popular spots where people gather to watch the sunset. So grab a drink and enjoy the view!
3. Hike from Fira to Oia
It is one of the best things to do on the island, and it is entirely free!
Start in the city center of Fira and hike along the caldera to Oia. It is not a demanding hike, but it is long.
Take a lot of water with you, proper walking shoes, and put on sunscreen! It gets hot, and there is no shade on the hike!
4. Enjoy Santorini Beaches
There are three different sand types of beaches in Santorini.
The black sand beach is the easiest to reach since it is located on the Perissa and Kamari coasts.
Plan to spend at least one afternoon relaxing on the beach, because this is your vacation after all.
To reach the red and white sand beach, you will need to hike a little, as they are not close to the city.
5. Volcanic Islands Tour
The most popular day tour from Santorini is the Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit.
This specific tour is a great value for money as it is a whole day tour, and it includes sailing, hiking a volcano, swimming in volcanic hot springs, and a visit to Thirassa.
🌋Find out what makes Santorini so unique among the other Cyclades.
Book the best-rated Volcanic Islands cruise here!
Best Vegan Restaurants In Santorini
There are many vegan options in Santorini. Check out the Happy Cow app to stay updated with the new restaurants with vegan options.
- I loved Gelateria Zotos, they had a lot of vegan ice cream flavors to choose from. My favorite was bitter chocolate, bits of chocolate in the creamiest dark chocolate ice cream ever.
- Falafeland had amazing vegan falafel and some vegan desserts as well! Portions were generous, and the price was very affordable.
- Tranquilo in Perissa Beach was delicious. Many vegan options, large portions, and beach bar vibes.
DAY 4-7: NAXOS
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades. It is also famous for its beautiful sandy beaches. If you want to enjoy beach life, Naxos is the best Cyclade for the beaches.
People usually debate whether they should visit Naxos or Paros. I think you should simply visit both, especially if you’re traveling on a budget!
Where to stay in Naxos
If you visit Naxos without a car, the best area to stay in Naxos is close to Chora.
Naxos is one of the cheapest Cyclades, and you can get a more luxurious accommodation for the price of a basic room in Santorini.
Here are the best places to stay in Naxos:
- TOP Pick: Nissaki Beach Hotel
- Best Mid-Range Option: Annio Studios
- Budget Pick: Galini Hotel
Best things to do in Naxos
Naxos is a big island, and the only one I would say might make sense rent a car in Naxos. That being said, you don’t necessarily need a car to visit the important sites.
It is possible to visit all the best places in Naxos by public transport. However, it will require more planning.
1. Beaches and water activities
Naxos has the best beaches out of all the Cyclades. The beaches are sandy, long and the water is clear.
You do not even need to go far to enjoy excellent beaches. Agios Georgios beach in the city center is very nice. Despite being long, it gets very busy.
Another popular choice, Plaka Beach, is beautiful and easily accessible by public transport.
2. Explore Naxos Chora
Exploring the city center of Naxos is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening.
The old city of Chora is charming, and you will enjoy walking the cobblestone streets and petting friendly cats.
Walk to the Temple of Apollo and enjoy the view of the city from this ancient monument.
Hike up to the Naxos Castle, the most well-preserved Venetian castle in the Cyclades.
3. Hike Mount Zas
Mount Zas is the highest peak in the Cyclades. If you decide to rent a car, you can spend a morning hiking to the summit.
Make sure you wear proper shoes and bring a lot of water. There will be just nature around you, and it gets hot in the summer!
4. Visit Naxos villages
After your hike, you can continue driving and visit the villages in the center of Naxos.
The three most popular villages to visit are Halki, Apeiranthos, and Filoti. Close to Halki, you will find ancient Byzantine churches.
5. Go On A Boat Trip To The Small Cyclades
If you want to sail from Naxos along some of the most beautiful hidden beaches on a luxurious new catamaran, this Naxos Day Cruise on a Catamaran is the best option!
This Naxos full-day sailing cruise is one of the best things to do in Naxos, and it often sells out days in advance, so don’t wait and book as soon as possible! 🌊☀️
Vegan food in Naxos
There were no fully vegan or vegetarian restaurants in Naxos when I visited. However, the Happy Cow app recommended a couple of restaurants with vegan options.
Yasouvlaki had an amazing fava bean spread that was accidentally vegan.
I had a pizza in another place that I was recommended, but I was not impressed. So I decided to cook my meals.
Budget travel style!
DAY 7-10: PAROS
Paros was my favorite island in the Cyclades. It gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to Mykonos.
That is mainly because of the beautiful Naoussa in the north of the island. It has the same small seaside town charm, but without the crowds.
Where to stay in Paros
The most popular places to stay in Paros are Naoussa and Parikia.
I couldn’t decide whether to stay in Naoussa or Parikia, so I decided to stay in both. After staying in both towns, I can report that there is not much of a difference in where you stay.
The island is relatively small, and everything is reachable by public transport.
- TOP Pick: Sandom
- Best Mid-Range Option: KOKOON
- Best Budget Pick: Bizas rooms and studios (I stayed here and it was a great budget option!)
best things to do in Paros
With 3 full days in Paros, you will have time to relax on the beach, go on a day trip, and explore the hidden corners of this Greek island.
1. Rent an electric bike in Naoussa and explore the north of Paros
If you are looking for a unique activity to do in Paros, how about renting an electric bike and exploring the northern part of the island? Unless you are very sporty, an electric bike is a must-do.
It is possible to explore the entire north side of the island by bike in one day. Enjoy the unique Kolympethres beach and hike up to the Mycenaean Acropolis.
2. Explore the old port of Naoussa
Spend some time just walking around the old port of Naoussa and get lost in the labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets.
Naoussa offers a charming blend of luxury and traditional fishing village vibes.
Did you know there are vineyards in Paros? Taste 4 local wines on this unique Paros wine tasting experience! 🍇🍷
3. Hike to Marcelo Beach
Marcelo Beach, close to Parikia, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Paros. However, it is not easily reachable if you decide to walk there.
It will take you about an hour of hiking along the coast of Parikia to reach the beach. However, the hike is beautiful, and it will feel so rewarding to swim afterward.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi boat from the city center of Parikia.
4. Explore Parikia
While the old town of Parikia may not be as picturesque as Naoussa, it’s still a charming place to explore.
Wander through the historic center’s hidden streets and narrow alleys—getting lost is part of the fun!
5. Day trip to Antiparos
The easiest day trip from Paros is to visit Antiparos, as you can simply take a short ferry over from one island to the other.
Antiparos is a great island to escape the crowds and enjoy calm beaches. I also loved the laid-back atmosphere of a small beach town.
Check out my full list of the best things to do in Paros, Greece for more than 15 ideas on how to spend time on the island!
Vegan food in Paros
There are currently no fully vegan restaurants in Paros. Luckily, you can find a few restaurants with vegan options.
- Almond is one of the best options for breakfast and brunch.
- Allas Souvlaki & More in Naoussa had a couple of vegan options, including mushroom gyros. It was a good fast-food place.
- Mouragio is a perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Beautiful sunset view with amazing vegan options on the menu. Their Fava was delicious, as well as vegan moussaka. It is not common to have vegan options in nicer restaurants that are not entrees.
Other Cyclades To Visit
If you have more than a week in the Cyclades, you can add more islands to your itinerary or spend more time on the islands you have already visited.
Either way, I do not suggest spending less than 2 nights on an island.
Mykonos is the second most visited island after Santorini. While I do not think it is a must-see, there is a certain appeal to exploring it. It is home to the most glamorous parties in the Cyclades. It is famous for its beach clubs, nightlife, and if you want to feel bougie. However, there is more to Mykonos than just that,
Milos has been gaining popularity in recent years. This is mainly due to its unique landscape and Sarakiniko beach with its unique rock formations. It is a bit off the beaten path and harder to reach than others. Hence, it receives fewer visitors, so it is one of the calmer islands.
Ios has the reputation of being a party island for backpackers. In recent years, the party scene faded and revealed Ios as a destination with beautiful beaches and lower prices than other islands in the Cyclades.
⛴️ Organise your island-hopping route on time.
Check departure times and ferry prices in the Cyclades here!
best time to visit the Cyclades
The most popular time to visit the Cyclades is in the summer months, from June to September.
The islands will be the most lively in June and August, and also the most expensive.
If you want to island-hop the Cyclades on a budget and avoid the majority of crowds, the best time to visit is September or June.
The prices in June are higher than in September, while the temperature and crowds are similar.
So if I had the freedom to go to the Cyclades whenever I wanted I’d go in September.
How to get to the Cyclades
To reach the islands, you can either fly or take a ferry from Athens. Your choice will depend on your itinerary, as prices are often similar if booked in advance.
Only Santorini and Mykonos have international airports, that’s why Santorini is the best place to start this itinerary.
If you’re taking a ferry, browse all ferries on Ferryhopper.
How To Get Around The Cyclades
Ferries are the main way to travel between islands—unless you’re lucky enough to be on a sailing trip (good for you!).
During the high season, many ferries connect the islands, varying in price and travel time.
I recommend choosing the cheapest option since the service is generally similar across all ferries—they’ll all get you from A to B!
⛴️ Plan your Cyclades island hopping itinerary with Ferryhopper!
Is Cyclades Island Hopping Expensive?
Your budget for Cyclades island hopping will depend on when you decide to visit.
Cyclades will be the most expensive if you travel in the summer.
On average, you should budget €60 to €100 per day if you’re sharing accommodation or staying in a hostel.
Accommodation is typically your biggest expense and can vary widely. Even if you cut costs elsewhere, it’s likely to take the biggest bite out of your budget.
It will be easier to stay on the lower end of that budget on Paros and Naxos than on Santorini.
Are the Cyclades safe for solo female travelers?
I felt safe backpacking the Cyclades as a solo female traveler, even walking alone at night.
Even compared to Athens, the islands are far more relaxed and safe.
Also, I didn’t encounter any scams. That said, always stay mindful of your belongings and use common sense.
If you’re hiking, ensure you have proper gear and plenty of water. Cyclades are hot!
Summary: Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary
And there you have it! By following this Greek island hopping itinerary in 10 days you’ll get a perfect Cyclades itinerary for first-timers.
You’ll get to see must-visit places like Santorini and escape crowds on Naxos and Paros.
Have you visited the Cyclades before? Is there something I missed that I should have seen? Let me know in the comments!
If you want to keep on planning your Cyclades adventure, here’s what you should read next!
