Cycladic Chic

With so much to discover, discerning travelers are increasingly opting for multi-destination getaways, island-hopping through the Aegean to experience more of the Cyclades’ breathtaking beauty.

From the storied streets of Santorini to the understated elegance of Paros, we explore the islands topping the summer wish lists of those in the know.

Santorini

Santorini is romance distilled. Its iconic whitewashed villages spill down the volcanic cliffside like sugar cubes, each terrace perfectly framing the view: black rock, impossibly blue water, and an endless Aegean horizon.

The island’s most sought-after suites – including those at celebrity haunts like Andronis and Canaves – are carved directly into the cliff, their infinity pools suspended over the caldera, seemingly hovering between sky and sea. It’s an undeniably cinematic setting, and one that has cemented Santorini’s status as a top destination for honeymooners and high-end romantics alike.

Along the island’s crescent-shaped coastline lies a striking contrast of powder-white sands, inky black beaches, rust-toned cliffs, and lava-sculpted sea caves best reached by yacht or catamaran. For sweeping caldera views, hike the volcanic rim from Fira to Oia, or enjoy an unforgettable bird’s-eye perspective on a private helicopter tour. Come evening, discreet fine-dining terraces and traditional hilltop tavernas offer front-row seats to the sunset that made Santorini famous – still utterly spellbinding, even for the well-traveled.

Wine lovers will also find pleasure here. Santorini’s volcanic terroir produces Assyrtiko of remarkable intensity, best sampled on a sommelier-led tour of acclaimed estates like Venetsanos Winery, Domaine Sigalas, and Vassaltis Vineyards – with an extra bottle, of course, saved for sipping under the stars.

Mykonos

An island that needs little introduction, Mykonos has long been the jet-set playground of the Cyclades and shows no sign of relinquishing its crown.

A global icon of high-summer glamour, it draws the international elite to its shores with a heady mix of designer shopping, five-star hideaways, world-class dining, and legendary beach clubs – with Nammos and Scorpios still reigning supreme. Accommodation is as considered as the social scene, and ranges from lavish hotels to ultra-private villas with full-service staffing.

Yet, Mykonos is far more than just its party credentials. Beyond the beach clubs lie wild, wind-sculpted coastlines, ancient ruins, fascinating mythology, and a foodie paradise that rewards those who stray from the well-trodden path. Wander the colorful, cobbled lanes of Old Town, browse contemporary galleries and Greek fine jewelry ateliers, or head inland to visit sleepy villages untouched by the buzz. A private yacht charter to nearby Delos offers the chance to explore one of Greece’s most sacred archaeological sites, revered in mythology as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Paros and Antiparos

Just 40 minutes by boat from Mykonos, or 15 minutes by helicopter, Paros has quietly evolved from a well-kept secret to one of the country’s most compelling luxury destinations. A handful of high-profile TV cameos may have accelerated its rise, but the island’s appeal runs deeper: here you’ll find an authentic taste of Greek life delivered with polish, elegance, and plenty of Cycladic style.

Sleek villas and plush boutique hotels dot the coastline, while long, soft-sand beaches, vibrant fishing villages, and friendly locals keep the atmosphere refreshingly grounded. The pace is gentler than in Mykonos, yet the upmarket village of Naoussa and the nearby Kolymbithres Beach area offer bar and restaurant scenes among the finest in the Cyclades. There are also plenty of ways to fill your days here, from wandering ancient hilltop villages like Lefkés to exploring hidden coves or swimming in the warm, crystal-clear water. Artisan stores stocked with beautifully crafted local wares, leisurely lunches spent tucking into dishes that prioritize flavor over fuss, and sunset cocktails sipped with the sea just steps away complete the picture. It’s this refined yet relaxed spirit that sums up Paros.

A mere 7 minutes away by boat lies Antiparos, a pocket-sized paradise and rising star in its own right. With quiet beaches and luminous turquoise waters, it attracts a discreet, well-heeled crowd. Stay at A-list favorite The Rooster, where wellness rituals, an organic farm, and open-air cookouts round out an effortlessly chic island escape.

Folegandros

A 40-minute boat transfer or short helicopter hop from Santorini brings you to Folegandros, a small but spectacular pastoral island that offers a soothing counterpoint to its more energetic neighbors. With no airport and no cruise terminal, it remains one of the Cyclades’ most tranquil addresses – low-profile, unspoiled, and blissfully slow.

The island is home to one of Greece’s most prestigious hotels, Gundari. Here, guests can explore the picturesque island in the hotel’s fleet of cars, take hands-on cooking classes with top local chefs, hike rolling hills, or discover pristine coves by speedboat.