A Guide to a Greek Island Vacation

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A Romantic Greek Island Vacation

A Romantic Greek Island Vacation Guide, including Santorini, Mykonos and Crete

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By Greg Mattson, ERV Editor - Updated: Dec 20, 2011

A Greek Island vacation combines the best of a European getaway (history, culture, food) with a “sun and heat” beach vacation.

The Greek islands have, throughout the years, kept their charm, village feel and slower pace of life. On most of the islands, it’s easy to find a nice quiet spot to relax and soak up the history and atmosphere of Greece.

Another good reason to think about a cruise around the Greek Islands is cost: You can actually holiday in Greece on a budget! Greece is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to travel in. Accommodation and food costs in Greece are very reasonable by European standards.

Let's look at 4 of the most popular Greek Island vacation destinations:

Spectacular Santorini
Popular Mykonos
Relaxing Paros
Historic Crete

Santorini

Santorini is one of those places in your travels you will never forget. There’s no other word for it – it is just stunningly beautiful.

We arrived by ferry (as many do), and opted to make the long climb up the steep hill...by donkey! That's right, mules are waiting for those wishing to add some adventure to their arrival in Santorini.

Once up at Fira, the main town, you'll be captivated by the narrow walkways which wind their way past the sugarcube-white homes and small shops clinging to the side of the volcanic cliffs.

A romantic evening here is as simple as picking from one of the many restaurants perched on the edge of the cauldron, and enjoying your meal and drink together while the sun sets on the Aegean sea, almost 1000 ft below. You’ll feel like you’re in a movie, or brochure!

Romantic Greek Island Hotels - From Just $41/night!

Santorini Sights: The best places to see in Santorini include the black volcanic sand beaches - check out Perissa Beach and Kamari Beach. The ancient villages of Pyrgos and Akrotiri are filled with history, and don't miss a chance to swim in the Volcanic hot springs (accessible by boat).

If you set sail from Athens with only time for one Greek Island, make it Santorini. And for romantic Greek Island accommodation, check out all the deals on Santorini Hotels with Ocean View.
Dont Miss: The romantic sunsets in Oia - the best in Europe!!

Mykonos

Mykonos has a reputation as being the “party-central” of the Greek Islands. It’s not surprising why when you see the number of bars, restaurants and cruise ships here in high season. It can feel like you’re sharing this small island with ½ of Europe!

Basically, we would say stay away from Mykonos in July and August – the heat and the crowds are just not worth it. But a visit here in May or September can be rewarding – you can choose the restaurant you want, and enjoy wandering through Hora in a more relaxed way.

For package deals to Mykonos and other Greek Islands, check out these All Inclusive Holidays to Greece.

Crete

Fine beaches, captivating history, memorable villages and towns – that’s Crete.

Chania (Hania) is where you will want to spend time in and base yourself. The Old Town is especially charming, and there are some accommodation and dining options with incredible character that will make your Greek Island vacation memorable.

Paros

Many travelers who use the ferries to cruise around the Greek Islands end up in Paros for at least a few minutes, as the ferry port here is a major hub in the Greek Ferries system. But Paros is worth a stay of at least a couple days.

We love Paros for it's great beaches and it's relaxed pace. Maureen and I rented a scooter here too and rode our way over the hills and coastline to the picturesque village of Naoussa.

The Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands

The summer heat in Greece can be very intense. And so can the crowds! On the other hand, a lot of tourism in Greece shuts down in the winter – hotels and restaurants close, and there are few travelers. This makes the spring (April, May) and autumn (September, October) the best time to visit Greece and the Greek islands.

Greek Island Vacation Tips

“Greek Time” – relax, you’re in Greece! You will travel and holiday in a much better frame of mind when you take everything in stride. The wheels of bureaucracy here can turn quite slowly, and disruptions to ferries, flights and other transport are not unheard of. Give yourself plenty of time to get around.
Pack the Sunscreen – Maureen says: "One of the worst sunburns I’ve ever endured was on the Greek islands! Even the springtime sun can be a scorcher. Pack at least a SPF 25 or higher sun block. And in case of burn, we always travel with a small supply of aloe gel which really soothes a burn and helps it heal".
When to Eat – the Greeks are famous for eating late. If you’d like a quiet dinner for 2, you could have the restaurant to yourselves at 6PM. Or, if you’d rather experience a real Greek dinner hour, come back at 9PM when the ouzo will be flowing…
Greek Ferries - the most economical way to cruise around the Greek Islands is by sailing on the Greek Ferries. Numerous companies depart Athens for the islands. Fares are reasonable and service is good. Double check all fine print though - departure & arrival times, routes, etc.

More Greek Island Vacation Info:

Greece & Greek Island Holiday Packages - best deals on air & hotel packages, tours and romantic villas in Greece.

Greece Vacation Planning - Official Site of the Greek National Tourism Organisation

Hope You Have a Fantastic Greek Island Vacation!