From Athens to Mykonos.

On the southeastern edge of Attica, Lavrio offers a warm welcome to the Cyclades. Once famed for its silver mines, today it’s a lively port town blending history with modern marina facilities. Wander the waterfront for classic Greek tavernas and ouzo bars, explore archaeological sites scattered nearby, or stroll the town center with its blend of neoclassical buildings and bustling squares. With its deep natural harbor and proximity to ancient Cape Sounion, Lavrio is a perfect first stop.

Just a short sail from Athens, Kea feels like a well-kept secret. Bronze Age ruins, ancient trails, and the carved Lion of Kea—dating to 600 BC—speak to its long history. The port of Korissia charms with colorful houses set against pebbled shores, while trails lead across the island’s hills through the remains of once-great city-states. Secluded coves and crystalline bays invite exploration by tender, offering a slower rhythm of island life.

Golden hills roll gently down to turquoise coves on Kythnos, an island steeped in myth and serenity. The port of Merichas is a cheerful hub lined with bright cafes, while Hora’s painted walls, chapels, and windmills recall timeless Cycladic charm. The northern village of Loutra is famed for its thermal springs, and with more than a hundred beaches scattered across the island, Kythnos offers endless choices for swimming, sunbathing, and quiet retreat.

Wild and rugged, Serifos remains blissfully untouched by heavy tourism. Whitewashed chapels and houses gleam against rocky hillsides, while the capital, Chora, cascades dramatically down the mountainside. Stroll narrow lanes, sip cocktails in hilltop bars, or simply unwind on golden beaches that remain unspoiled and uncrowded. Serifos is a place to savor simplicity and scenery, an authentic Cycladic jewel.

Just across from Paros, Antiparos is a haven of understated beauty. Its bougainvillea-lined streets and sandy beaches create a relaxed island atmosphere. The island’s highlight is the Cave of Antiparos, where stalactites and stalagmites have been forming for over 45 million years. Ashore, the main village offers chic boutiques, waterfront tavernas, and a laid-back energy that makes Antiparos a favorite for discerning travelers seeking privacy and charm.

The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos blends history, adventure, and endless beaches. The old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with cafes, artisan shops, and Venetian architecture. Active travelers can hike the Seven Villages trail, winding through mountain landscapes dotted with donkeys and wildflowers. Visit the Portara, an ancient marble gateway, taste local wines and cheeses, or simply relax on expansive sandy beaches far from the crowds.

Sophisticated and graceful, Syros is the cultural heart of the Cyclades. Ermoupoli, the capital, dazzles with marble squares, pastel neoclassical mansions, and grand theaters. Climb to Ano Syros, crowned by the 13th-century Agios Georgios Cathedral, for panoramic views of the Aegean. Beyond town, quiet beaches like Galissas promise calm waters and long swims. Syros offers a blend of cosmopolitan flair and authentic island warmth.

Mykonos is Greece’s most glamorous island, where whitewashed windmills, golden beaches, and a legendary nightlife collide. Anchor off Little Venice for cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon, wander through boutique-lined alleys, or visit the Archaeological Museum to connect with the island’s ancient past. By day, swim in turquoise bays; by night, embrace the cosmopolitan energy of Mykonos’ iconic bars and restaurants.