A Summer in Greece - Best of The Cyclades
It’s no secret anymore that Greece is the winner of this summer’s go-to-list. Might it be dazzling Mykonos, Insta-worthy Santorini, enchanting Athens or (yet) lesser-known Antiparos and Milos - we feel like the entire world is coming to the Cyclades post-pandemic. In order to make the most out of your trip and stay away of the crowds, we have collected some of the most unknown places. Spots that are worth being put on your list for a late summer trip to Greece. After all End of August, September and the beginning of October are the best months to experience the Cyclades. The sea is still warm, the weather mild and prices are lower than in peak season. Plus there are some remarkable newly opened hotels to be discovered along the trip.
Paros
As one of the larger Cycladic islands, Paros has always been a celebrated summer hotspot for the Greeks. With sandy beaches, windy shores and fancy alfresco dining, this island has lots of activities to offer and plenty of stunning landscapes. Stylish hotel additions put Paros on the international luxury radar and gourmet venues pop up in rapid pace just in line with the ever increasing demand for sunset dining after sun-kissed hours at one of the cool beach clubs.
Summer Senses Resort Paros
SLEEP
Summer Senses Resort - as one of the island’s finest places to stay, this resort comes with rooms that even have their own pool, is located close to Punda beach club and has a great selection of F&B outlets, basically everything a luxury hotel needs
Parocks Luxury Resort & Spa - the newcomer to the island with a fantastic design and super chic rooms, a spa with an indoor and outdoor pool, though it seems that service still needs a boost (according to several online reviews)
Parilio - the Ferrari of hotels on the island, an established luxury hotel with perfect design and lots of Insta-worthy corners plus fine interior design
Cove Paros - another brand new property on the beach of Naoussa with spacious rooms and nicely designed public spaces plus their restaurant is a go-to for lunch when in Naoussa
Seven Santa Maria - the winner when it comes to value for money has rooms with complimentary sunbeds on the prettiest beach of Paros
Parea Paros - an unconventional newly opened property that comes with a sleek and fresh look as well as a fair price, perfect for island discovering
EAT
Saline, Aliki - sleek and modern spot to watch the sunset in the southern part of the island
Stilvi, Naoussa - chic dining spot in the heart of the lively town, come here for the vibes not the view
Siparos, Naoussa - a frequented place to be seen during lunch, however a pretty spot for dinner, too
Salair, Parikia - brand new and yet super secret with sweeping views of the port and amazing drinks
Stou Fred, Parikia - highly rated hidden restaurant in the not-to-be-missed capital town of Paros island
Les Amis Restaurant, Paros - for those not wanting to miss the perfect wine along their set menu
Galazia Hytra - legendary Athens-based and Michelin-starred Hytra restaurant’s summer venue
Galazia Hytra - one of Paros’ finest restaurants
EXPLORE
Rent a Boat and cruise around the island
Kite Surfing at one of the best spots in the Cyclades
Exploring the island on an ATV, enabling you to get to the most secret spots
Do a wine tasting and purchase Rosé at the Moraitis winery in Naoussa
Wander the narrow streets of Naoussa, get lost and have dinner in one of the open-air restaurants at the harbour such as Sigi Ikthios
Linger longer at one of the island’s celebrated beach clubs: Blue Oyster, Santa Maria Beach Bar, Monastiri Beach, Magaya
Antiparos
Just off Paros, we can find a real hidden gem in the Cyclades. Thanks to the buzzing opening of The Rooster hotel, an Aman-like retreat, Antiparos also came on the radar of the luxury jet-set lately. Still, it has the typical Mamma Mia vibes and feels traditionally Greek all over. Generally, Antiparos is more laid back and also more affordable than neighbouring Paros but feels more boutique and charming though. Arriving to Antiparos can be a bit of a journey, too. You may need to fly into Athens and then change to a ferry towards Paros for another boat trip to Antiparos or you fly into Paros directly to catch a cab taking you over to the island. Honestly, I do believe that the harder the arrival, the more unique the destination.
SLEEP
The Rooster Antiparos - much talked about hospitality project with an astonishing design concept and healing programme
Casa Botanica Antiparos Luxury Villas - a wonderful and very stylish option for those travelling with children or a bunch of friends
EAT
Vassilenas Antiparos - the summer dependence of the Athens-based diner really deserves the title of best restaurant on Antiparos
Kalokeri - laid-back greek tavern with a modern interior design and concept store
EXPLORE
Enjoy a day at the various beach clubs like luxe Soros Beach, relaxed Sunset or pretty Beach House Resort. Don’t forget to book the sunbeds ahead in order to secure a space at these highly celebrated spots on Antiparos.
Renting a boat to discover the hidden bays and turquoise waters around the island is a must for those who can afford to do it.
If you haven’t planned your trip ahead or are one of those unlucky ones who couldn’t secure a villa at The Rooster, call them to reserve a spot for drinks. The sunset from the property is among the best in the Cyclades - certainly comes with a high price.
Milos
A journey to Moon. Milos is probably the most talked about island in 2025 - thanks to Insta-shots of bloggers and influencers posting on whitewashed stones hanging into the bluest waters one can imagine. Yes, Milos is still a steal compared to Mykonos and Santorini and there might be fewer people than on the two classic go-to-islands. Being more laid-back, there is still a lack of fine dining venues and world class hotels. On the other end, I enjoyed the casual and less posh evening situations without needing any reservations despite being high season. Though the hotels now charge quite high prices, the demand is exceeding supply, they still need to catch up on international luxury level to maintain these price tags. I therefore suggest to book less frequented bed and breakfasts and spend most of your days on a private boat cruising the most turquoise waters of Greece. After all that is what Milos is famous for and something you should not miss.
EAT
Yialos, Pollonia - This is the real culinary gem of all of Milos restaurants. Sitting on the quaint harbor of Pollonia is scenic, but the food steals the show - especially the raw dishes.
Nostos, Adamantas - We went on two nights after we were so impressed on the first evening. This is the only posher restaurant in Adamantas with great service, excellent food & fine wines.
Barriello, Plaka - Wonderful spot in the capital of Milos. Everyone meets on the main square after the sun has beautifully set on the horizon. This place feels like out of a movie.
Makris, Sarakiniko - For all those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Makris ticks the boxes. Come for sunset and try to order the menu.
Hanabi, Pollonia - Great place for breakfast and people-watching all day. A nice alternative to Greek food if you are in for something else, they have the best Sushi and Japanese on the island.
Astakas, Klima - we skipped Medusa for this place. The high prices reflect in empty tables even during the best times of the day, enabling a great feast with a perfect sunset directly on the water.
SLEEP
Domes White Coast - The island’s prime spot for a blissful and sleek designed accommodation. Make sure to ask for a suite in the main building for unobstructed views of Sarakiniko. For the intimate feeling, visit soon as this property is soon being expanded vastly.
Phos Milos - This small boutique property feels like an oversized luxury Airbnb. Each guest has its own little piece of heaven and there is daily housekeeping however you’re about to eat out in wonderful Pollonia - even for breakfast. The real deal is its owner Alex who immediately makes you feels like a very good friend welcoming you to his home. Good value for money.
Golden Milos Beach House - Underrated boutique hotel on one of Milos sandy beach shores. This hotel comes with a personal service, a very nice pool area and good location. However the real highlight is the hotel’s beach club on Provatas Beach. Enjoy attentive service while you are lingering along the golden sand in front of turquoise waters.
EXPLORE
Firopotamos: This place stole my heart. A small fishing village with whitewashed houses and water as clear as one can only imagine - hardly can be beaten.
Pollonia: A true fishing village that gets even more charming in the evening when restaurants set up for dinner on the beach with table lamps.
Provatas Beach: From all places we have been, this is by far the most wonderful water quality I have ever seen.
Mandrakia: Though not a secret anymore, this fishing village is pure magic. Stay for drinks & people-watching.
Rent a Quad: For the total adventure, rent your own ATV or Buggy and go explore the island yourself.
Rent your Own Boat: Some boats do not require a license and this way you can access all the hidden beaches of the island. Make sure to have enough time.
Polyaigos: This is a truly stunning place only reachable by boat. Make sure to plan a day swimming and lounging in one of the lonely but breathtaking bays.
Kimolos: If your time allows, head over to Kimolos by ferry and enjoy a truly untouched Greek island. Here you can escape the tourists and mingle along locals only.
SKIP
Sarakiniko: Yes this beach is world famous for the moon-like landscape but it is not worth sharing it with hordes of tourists. Instead head to Blue Bay on Polyaigos by boat and just be by yourself.
Medusa Restaurant: Yes, their octopus is good but it feels like there are only tourists queuing and places like Yialos or Nostos were equally good with superior atmosphere and less rushed service.
Kleftiko: Yes, this place is pure magic one hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset. Skip the modern version of a boat festival and moor in front of Fyriplaka beach - we were alone all day.
Utopia Cafe: Yes, it’s a wonderful sunset but not worth the wait. Instead have drinks at Salt Suites in Pollonia or Beach Bar Plathiena.
Adamantas: This is the place where you will arrive by ferry. Though frequented for the nightlife and bars, skip it for Pollonia and Plaka with more charming vibes.
Renting a Car: Half of the island is not reachable by pathed roads and the other half is mostly so small that international drivers will wish to leave their car behind. There is no way you get around renting an ATV for a smooth ride around Milos. There are so many places abroad pathed paths that are worth visiting.
Santorini
The Greek fairytale island. I am not sure if I am the only one receiving tons of Insta Reels of Santorini these days. Maybe I am, maybe Santorini is just THE place to go post-pandemic. While there is no limited time frame like for Venice, I don’t really get the hype about this island but I decided I need to see it this year in order to be able to judge about it afterwards and join the conversations. I have heard of Oia, Imerovigli or Caldera and I feel these are the places to just go and see. Hence I decided for a hotel in pretty and less touristy Pyrgos.
SLEEP
Cavo Tagoo - luxury resort with elegant suites (each comes with a private pool), a great restaurant managed by Zuma and just the right setting for sunset - no need to leave the resort at all!
Nous Santorini - one of Europe’s sexiest hotel openings this summer, Athens-based YES Hotels have landed a real stunner with an amazing value
North Santorini - situated high above the island, this hotel is the real view-winner, not even considering the sleek design and private pools
EAT
Mavro Restaurant - amazing view and fresh look with cool vibes in Imerovigli
Madame Sousou - a true hidden gem with the most mouthwatering food, impressive views and gorgeous interior design - loved everything here!
Mia’s Oia - stunning restaurant with a fine dining approach and sweeping views of Oia and a stunning terrace plus best oysters on the island.
Roka by Zuma - this is perhabs the most Mykonos-like place in Santorini. The stunning views, cool vibes, live DJ, fresh seafood and top service all comes up for the high price tag.
EXPLORE
Of course I have to mention the famous Santorini Sunset at this point. No doubt the best view is from the western part of Oia as well as on the Northern end of Imerovigli. If you want a bit of bliss, head to Roka Restaurant for drinks and dinner.
If your travel budget is still up for some indulgence, go on a day cruise to explore the volcanic springs and to enjoy the best views of the volcano island.
A day on the beach should not be missed especially since Santorini beaches come with black sand due to the volcanic fossils.
After taking the must-shots for your Instagram friends in Oia, head to Pyrgos for the real surprise. There are fewer tourists, more affordable restaurants with a better quality and really the best views of the entire island. It isn’t all about Social Media, think of #FakeLife
Thira is known for its nightlife, while Imerovigli has the best views of Oia and the Therasia island. Still our favorite town remains Oia for its elegant vibes. Do skip visiting the towns when most crowded which is in the afternoon and during sunset. Instead head out for dinner and walk around when the shops are still open but streets
Athens
Because no trip to Greece is complete without a stop in the capital. I am telling myself this sentence every time, however, I have not had the right interaction yet. The last time I visited the capital of Greece, they had demonstrations due to the European Union no longer sending money to Athens. It wasn’t very friendly and ended with the staff of the Grande Bretagne evacuating the famous rooftop. I was there on spot. However, I feel this time will be very different. Athens changed a lot and more cool restaurants and shops are helping the city recover and becoming a new go-to place. I mean that’s the only right way since the city is magnificent. Where else can you wander through ancient ruins, and stunning monuments while having the best life on the sea at the same time? Athens deserves a second chance.
SLEEP
Academias - a new addition to the hotel scene with amazing interiors, a cool pool and gym plus a great location in an upcoming district.
Perianth - part of Designhotels, this property is located in the old town of Athens and some of the suites have incredible views of the Acropolis.
Grande Bretagne - the Grand Lady and number one luxury hotel of the city comes with all amenities one can dream of including a high price tag, resulting in no locals stepping foot inside. A royal fortress having minimal interaction with the outside besides the best views of the city.
Four Seasons Athens - needless to mention that this resort is a Mediterranean dream on a private peninsula, a picture-perfect flagship property
EAT
NYX Rooftop - since our first visit three years ago, this place has won our hearts. Very personal service, cool vibes with live DJ, best Japanese food in town and gorgeous views of the Acropolis.
Materia Prima - our favorite wine bar in a less frequented part of Athens. They have an excellent small food menu along a vast wine selection of Greek wines in a casual but cool setting.
Spondi Restaurant - this two-Michelin-starred place is worth securing a table long before you even book your flights to Greece
Okio Restaurant - for a more casual dinner, this bar-like design spot is your go-to
Aneton - a design-lovers dining venue with tasty dishes and well sorted wine list
EXPLORE
Culture in Athens should be your top priority. Make sure to visit the Acropolis, with its nearby museum for the best insight into Greek culture and history
Wander the lovely districts of Pláka and Anafiotika. Check out one of the many lovely shops or pass by at a café to indulge in the atmosphere of the lively city life. Make sure to walk along the Monastikari district for impressive perspectives of Acropolis.
Enjoy the View From Lycabettus Hill by either hiking up the hill or taking the cable car. Once atop, enjoy a breathtaking view of the city with the Acropolis in front and the sea at the horizon
Make sure to spend a beach day in posh Vouliagmeni, where the local upper-class meets for lunch at Matsuhisa or enjoys champagne on heavy sunbeds under the shades of the old pine trees
