Best Places to Stay in the Cyclades

The Cyclades are a large group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. Out of the 220 islands, 24 are inhabited. They are famous for their blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings, and amazing beaches.

These islands are perfect for villa-style living. They blend ancient history with crystal-clear waters and excellent food and wine. If you are fed up with crowded resorts, take a chance on a villa. Usually off the beaten track, they give you space, privacy, and a chance to experience an authentic Greek experience. It doesn't matter if you are a couple on your own, a family, or a group of friends — a villa will give you a magical Mediterranean experience.

In this guide, we will tell you about Andros, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Santorini, which we think are the five best islands in the Cyclades. Hopefully, we will be able to help you choose an island that will suit your holiday needs. They all offer different experiences, so there should be an island that you will fall in love with.

Why Choose a Villa Holiday in the Cyclades?

A villa holiday in the Cyclades generally has a private swimming pool, which is a big advantage over a hotel pool, which will be crowded. You also won't have to get up at the crack of dawn to secure a sun lounger. Villas have secluded terraces, so you can enjoy a cocktail in the quiet while watching the sun set. Another big advantage is having your own fully-equipped kitchen. Yes, we are sure you want to experience authentic Greek tavernas, but you might want to have an evening indoors now and again. Perhaps you have fussy children who may not want to eat foreign food. Maybe you want to be really pampered. In that case, you have the option of hiring a private chef who will spoil you by cooking whatever you desire.

Villas are cost-effective, especially when you come in a big group. If eight of you were staying in a hotel, you would have to pay for multiple rooms. A villa is a set price however many of you there are.

Choosing Your Perfect Cyclades Destination

The geographical diversity of the Cyclades is vast. The islands differ greatly from island to island, from volcanic craters to lush, green valleys. Let's take a look at each island in turn to give you an idea of what to expect.

Andros

Andros is the second largest island in the Cyclades, as well as being the greenest. It offers a relaxed Greek experience off the main tourist track. It caters equally to beachgoers, history enthusiasts, and hikers.

The capital of Andros is Chora and is different from the normal whitewashed buildings of the Cyclades. Instead, there are grand neoclassical mansions which used to belong to the wealthy shipowners who used to live on Andros. It is an interesting town to visit. Wander along the cobblestone streets, visit the Goulandris Art Museum, and see the 13th-century Venetian Castle as well as the famous Tourlitas lighthouse.

Hikers will be in paradise on Andros. There are almost 112 miles (180 km) of well-marked trails. They pass by citrus orchards, river valleys, natural springs, and rushing waterfalls.

Andros has many beaches, some remote and only reached by dirt tracks, but many organised and family-friendly. The main seaside resort is Batsi and has sandy beaches, plenty of tavernas, and some nightlife. It is not a party island like Mykonos, but there are bars and lounge cafes.

The vibe on Andros is sophisticated, but relaxed. It feels unpretentious even though some of the locals are shipowners or sea captains.

Mykonos

Mykonos is world famous for its beach parties and nightlife, but it also has natural beauty, tranquil whitewashed buildings, and top-class dining.

At first glance, the capital, Mykonos Town, seems like a typical Cycladic village with narrow maze-like cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings. However, there are also elegant art galleries, upscale restaurants, and designer shops. Overlooking the town are the 16th-century windmills called Kato Myli, from where you get a stunning view of the town and the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean. Do not miss going to the waterfront neighbourhood, Little Venice, which has 18th-century houses with balconies built right over the sea. It comes alive at night with lively bars, trendy restaurants, and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning.

Mykonos offers spectacular sandy beaches, but the vibe changes by location. There are the party beaches, Paradise, Super Paradise, and Psarou, where day to night music and dancing take place. Top DJs often play at these beach clubs.

However, there are also family-friendly beaches, such as Agios Ioannis, Ornos, and Plaka, which are much calmer than the party beaches.

For those interested in ancient history, Mykonos offers a trip to the island of Delos, the mythological birthplace of the gods, Apollo and Artemis. There is a massive archaeological site to visit, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mykonos does suffer from the Meltemi winds, giving it the name 'Island of the Winds'. This means that there can be cooler breezes on the beaches on some days in the summer.

During the peak season, Mykonos is crowded, especially as cruise ships also stop here. Be warned that it is one of the most expensive destinations in Greece. For more detail, read our guide to villa holidays in Mykonos.

Naxos

Naxos is the largest and greenest island in the Cyclades. It is nothing like Mykonos, but it is known for its rich agricultural heritage and its farm-to-table cuisine, as well as its family-friendly sandy beaches.

Naxos is very much a lived-in island with a strong local culture. You will find some amazing family-run tavernas with home-grown food. The island produces its own meats, cheeses, olives, potatoes, honey, and a unique citrus liqueur, Kitron.

Naxos Town has a real residential feel about it, but is still welcoming to visitors. The harbour is close to the town, and from there you can walk to the massive Portara, an unfinished ancient marble gate which belonged to a temple dedicated to Apollo. Above the waterfront, you will find a maze of cobblestone alleys, Venetian mansions, and lovely rooftop cafes with fantastic views.

Naxos has some of the best sandy beaches in Greece, some of which stay quiet even in the peak season. Agios Prokopias and Agia Anna are perfect for families with their long, shallow turquoise waters and beachside tavernas and cafes. Plaka and Mikri Vigla are great for windsurfers and kitesurfers, and those who prefer wilder beaches.

Naxos has over 30 villages, which are steeped in culture. Chalki, for example, is in the Tragaia Valley, and has boutique shops and stores selling local products. Apeiranthos is a marble-paved village, which has local museums, quaint cafes and panoramic views.

It is a good idea to hire a car to explore the island as there is so much to see. The Cedar Forest of Alyko is beautiful, and the remote fishing village of Apollonas in the north of the island shows what life on Naxos is really like.

Paros

Paros gives you the best of both worlds. It mixes authentic Cycladic charm with a cosmopolitan vibe. Whether you are looking for relaxation, water activities, or a lively social scene, you will find it in Paros.

Parikia, the capital of Paros, has a beautiful Old Town with cobblestone streets, a castle and a 4th-century church, Panagia Ekatontapiliani.

However, the cosmopolitan hub of the island is Naoussa. It is a fishing village, but at night, it comes alive with upscale bars and seafood tavernas.

If you want to see real life on Paros, head inland, where you will find traditional villages. The village of Lefkes stands out as its architecture is stunning. It is also the start of the Byzantine Road, a walking trail with beautiful scenery.

There is a variety of beaches on the island, from family-friendly beaches such as Santa Maria and Paralia, to beaches with stunning rock formations like Kolymbithres. Paros is a major centre for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with Golden Beach as the main hub. This is made possible by the Meltemi winds.

You can take a 7-minute ferry ride to Antiparos, which is a summer destination for the rich and famous, like Tom Hanks. However, the celebrities who come here want a low-key and discreet stay.

Santorini

Santorini is a very popular island and gets packed in the summer. It is interesting, with its volcanic caldera, volcanic terrain, steep cliffs, and whitewashed houses. It has a romantic vibe, partly because it is visually stunning and has spectacular sunsets, particularly from the villages of Oia and Imerovigli. These villages are situated on the edge of cliffs and are famous for their cave hotels and upmarket restaurants.

Because of the volcanic activity, you won't find normal golden sand beaches, but instead, there are stunning red and black sand and pebble beaches, such as Perissa and Kamari.

The island is considered to be a gourmet's paradise. Fresh seafood is popular and is served on the day it is caught. The volcanic soil produces delicious vegetables, in particular, cherry tomatoes and white aubergines. The soil also produces excellent grapes, which are made into superb wines, such as Assyrtiko.

Beyond the beaches and nightlife, Santorini is steeped in history. Visit Akrotiri, an ancient Bronze Age Minoan settlement, which has been preserved by volcanic ash. For more detail, read our guide to villa holidays in Santorini.

When is the Best Time for a Cycladic Villa Holiday?

Peak Season (July and August)

It gets busy in the summer on the islands, but Santorini and Mykonos are particularly crowded. If you like a vibrant atmosphere, this is the time to go. It is also the hottest time, with average temperatures being 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (94°F), and it can get hotter. It is not the time to go if you can't cope with the heat. In addition, luxury villa rentals are at a premium, and you need to book a year in advance.

Shoulder Season (May – June and September – October)

If you want a quieter vibe, visit the Cyclades in the shoulder seasons. It is still warm, especially in late June and early September. Temperatures range between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). Prices of luxury holiday villas are also cheaper than in the peak season.

Winter in the Cyclades

The resorts on all the islands shut down for the winter. There are tavernas and cafes open in the capitals, but the atmosphere is quiet. It is not particularly cold, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), though it can rain heavily on some days.

Essential Planning Tips for Your Stay in the Cyclades

• Book Early. You should book a year in advance for the peak season, 6 to 10 months for the shoulder seasons. Larger villas get booked very quickly.
• Travel Logistics. Santorini and Mykonos have international airports, and from April until the end of October, there are direct flights from the UK and other major European cities. In the winter, you have to change planes in Athens. Naxos and Paros only have domestic airports, so you have to change planes in Athens or go by ferry. Andros can only be reached by ferry — it takes 2 hours from Athens' Rafina port. Most of the holiday villas in the Cyclades are off the beaten track, so it is advisable to hire a car. It gives you the ability to tour the islands at your own pace. There are buses, but they don't go everywhere, and you could miss out on seeing hidden gems, mountain tavernas, and secluded coves.
• Villa Amenities to Look For. Check that the villa has air conditioning, as it is essential, particularly in the summer. Infinity pools are stunning, so it is always a bonus to have one. All villas in Greece must have an EOT licence. This is a legal document certifying that the villa has met the health and safety requirements for renting.
• Local Markets vs Supermarkets. If there is a local market, called laiki, shop there rather than at the supermarket. The fruit and vegetables will be fresher, local, and in season. The produce is generally cheaper than at a supermarket, and you will be supporting local farmers. The markets also sell honey, cheese, and sometimes the Greek firewater, tsikoudia.
• Concierge Services. Most private villas in the Cyclades have a concierge. He or she will give you advice about your stay and will book excursions and restaurants for you.

Curating the Experience: Food, Culture & Activities

Gastronomy

You have the choice of eating in a taverna or restaurant, cooking for yourself, or making good use of a private chef.

Cycladic food is characterised by fresh seafood, sun-dried ingredients such as tomatoes, fava beans, and capers, local cheeses, and slow-cooked comfort food.

Each island has its specialities. Santorini, for example, has tomato keftedes, tomato fritters made from cherry tomatoes, onions, and mint. Mykonos has louza, sun-dried, spiced and cured pork tenderloin. Andros has fourtalia, which is a thick, rustic omelette stuffed with local pork sausage, onions, and potatoes.

Experiences

There is plenty to do on the islands, and your concierge will happily book excursions for you. There are boat tours available, and you can join a group trip or book a private charter. Take a day tour to the archaeological site on the island of Delos. Enjoy olive oil and wine tastings or try a cooking class. Everything can be coordinated through Bnbstay.

Ready to Find Your Dream Villa in the Cyclades?

Luxury villas in the Cyclades will provide you with a magical experience. They mix luxury with privacy, a sense of space, and a sense of Greek authenticity. We hope that this travel guide has given you an idea of which island or islands you would like to visit. Feel free to browse the Bnbstay collection of villas in the Cyclades.

FAQ

Is it better to stay in a hotel or a villa in the Cyclades? A villa gives you privacy, space, and flexibility. You can do what you want when you want and won't be tied to hotel meal times.

Do I need a car when renting a villa in the Cyclades? Most luxury villa rentals are off the beaten track, so you are better off with a car, as buses don't go everywhere. A car is also useful for discovering secret gems.

When is the best time to visit an archaeological site in the Cyclades? The shoulder seasons are the best times to visit archaeological sites, as it is not so crowded or hot as the summer.

Are villas in the Cyclades family-friendly? Many swimming pools have a shallow end or are gated. You have your own kitchen, so you can cook for fussy children. A luxury holiday villa in the Cyclades has plenty of space, so you won't be getting in everybody's way as if you were crammed into small hotel rooms.

Which Cycladic islands are the most expensive? Mykonos and Santorini are the most expensive of the Cycladic islands.

Plan your trip to the Cyclades with us. The islands are all different, and hopefully this travel guide has steered you to the island or islands which would suit you. We have villas across all five of these islands, so feel free to browse our collection and check availability for your preferred dates. Still unsure? Get in touch and our team will help you choose.