A Feast For The Eyes!
Welcome to Greece, where the views are to die for! Nestled in southeastern Europe, it is just one of those destinations that will have you returning for more. From its mouth-watering salads to its aesthetically pleasing backdrops, having Greece on your island-hopping travel list is a no-brainer.
With over 1200 islands to explore, Greece offers an endless abundance of charm waiting to be discovered. Choosing where to go for your island-hopping adventure can be tricky when so many beautiful islands exist. In this blog, I will share my island-hopping, tried-and-tested 10-day itinerary with my mum to the following isles: Crete (Heraklion), Thirassa (Santorini), Naxos, and Mykonos.
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Language, Currency, & Ferries In Greece: A Quick Guide
Language: Greek is the official language in Greece, but don’t fret if you’re not fluent—many Greeks speak English, especially in tourist hotspots. It’s commonly taught in schools and used in hospitality, making communication easy. Thanks to international visitors and historical connections, locals often learn other languages like French, German, and Italian.
Currency: Since January 2002, the Euro (EUR) has been king in Greece regarding cash. While contactless payment is widespread, it’s wise to keep some change handy for those unexpected moments. With language and currency covered, you can explore Greece hassle-free!
Ferries: We booked our ferries through reputable websites, such as FerryScanner and Direct Ferries. The FerryScanner also does taxi transfers and insurance.
Heraklion, Crete: Your Perfect Two-Day Escape
We started our Greece island-hopping adventure in Heraklion, Crete. It was a perfect way to introduce ourselves to Greece, so we spent two days of the ten-day journey there. From iconic archaeological sites steeped in mythology to panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, Heraklion promises a journey through time.
Wander the bustling streets, savouring the warm hospitality and delicious cuisine; Crete is the island where every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered. It’s also an ideal island for relaxing and just catching rays while admiring the blue waters.
Amazing way to start our Greece trip in Crete, Heraklion
Exploring Heraklion: Fun Things To Do!
Heraklion Highlights: Where To Stay & Explore
City Center: Dive into the heart of Heraklion, where key attractions, shopping streets, and historical sites like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum await. This lively area bustles with local culture, inviting cafes, and vibrant nightlife, ensuring endless exploration.
Koules Area / Old Harbour: Step back at the Koules Fortress and Old Harbour, where historical charm meets waterfront tranquillity. Take strolls along the harbour, wander the Old Town, and discover nearby landmarks—all while soaking in the captivating ambience.
Amoudara Beach: Escape to coastal bliss at Amoudara, a suburb boasting a long sandy beach away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Here, relaxation reigns supreme as you bask in the sun and sea, with convenient access to Heraklion’s attractions whenever you crave a change of scenery.
We found our perfect haven at Villaggio Hotel, a charming boutique retreat that made our two-night stay in Heraklion unforgettable.
My Other Hotel Picks:
Dive Into Santorini (Thira): A Three-Day Adventure
Santorini, or Thira, is the island everyone screams about on Instagram – so it was only right to choose this next island-hopping destination for my mum’s birthday. Boy…it didn’t disappoint! Santorini really is like stepping into heaven. Imagine picture-perfect sunsets, charming cliffside villages, and crystal-clear waiting for you to explore.
We spent three days of our ten-day island-hopping adventure in Santorini. Here, you can explore Thira’s capital with its winding streets, cosy cafes, and cute shops blending tradition with cosmopolitan vibes. Whether you plan to lounge on stunning beaches or capture Insta-worthy moments, Santorini has it all for an unforgettable getaway.
Obsessed with the vibes and views in Santorini
Santorini Adventure: Choose Your Excursion
Discover Santorini’s Charm: Where To Stay
Oia: Experience the magic of Santorini in the iconic village of Oia. Known for its breathtaking sunsets and white-washed buildings, Oia offers a romantic atmosphere with narrow streets, boutique shops, and upscale accommodations. Enjoy waterfront dining with stunning views of the caldera.
Thira: Dive into the vibrant energy of Santorini’s capital, Thira. With a bustling nightlife, diverse dining options, and plenty of shops, Thira is centrally located for exploring the island. Perched atop the caldera cliffs, you’ll be treated to magnificent sea views and glimpses of the volcano.
Imerovigli: For a quieter retreat on your island-hopping trip, head to Imerovigli. This tranquil village offers panoramic views of the caldera and a romantic ambience. Luxury accommodations built into the cliffs provide a serene escape while still being close to Santorini’s attractions.
During our stay, we experienced Santorini’s beauty at the Volcano View by Caldera Collection. This stunning hotel offers incredible views, luxurious rooms, and delicious dining options—a perfect sanctuary for an unforgettable Santorini getaway.
My Other Hotel Picks:
Naxos: A Three-Day Island Escape
I’m not going to lie. After Santorini, we thought that other islands would be untoppable. However, all the islands bring something unique, and Naxos is no different. As the largest Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, Naxos offers a delightful blend of history and relaxation.
We initially decided to spend two days on this island-hopping trip but then stayed three nights instead because we were super loving our hotel and the vibe of the island. We were here for the chilled vibes instead of the alternative nightlife of the town centre.
Naxos, Greece, chilling at Seven Suites Boutique Villa, having the best time!
Fun Things To Do In Naxos
Exploring Naxos Gems
Naxos Town. The capital and main port of Naxos Town (Chora) is a bustling hub with a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture, lively waterfront tavernas, and vibrant nightlife. Staying in Naxos Town provides easy access to the historic Old Town, the Portara monument, and the Archaeological Museum.
Agios Prokopios. Located just a short drive from Naxos Town, Agios Prokopios is famous for its stunning sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. This area is ideal for those seeking a beachside retreat with numerous seaside tavernas and water sports facilities.
Agia Anna. Another charming coastal village known for its beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere is Agia Anna. This area is an excellent choice for those looking for a quieter setting while enjoying easy access to the beach and a variety of dining options.
We stayed at Seven Suites, a gorgeous, intimate villa. It was just unreal! Also, they make the best salads! We had only booked one night but extended for another three nights; it was just too lush.
My Other Hotel Picks:
Final Two-Days In Mykonos
Last but certainly not least, we spent our final two island-hopping days in style in Mykonos. This was an unforgettable, aesthetically pleasing stay surrounded by stunning views and boujee vibes. The order of the islands was the perfect choice, as we ended our trip on a high!
You can spend your final island-hopping moments exploring pristine beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise, indulging in luxurious beach resorts, and immersing yourself in the lively energy of Mykonos town. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, Mykonos offers the perfect balance, ensuring your trip ends on a high note with stunning sunsets and memories to last a lifetime.
Spending our final island-hopping days in boujee style at Ubud Mykonos
Island Adventures In Mykonos
Popular Locations To Stay In Mykonos
Mykonos Town. The island’s main town, known for its charming narrow streets, iconic windmills, and vibrant nightlife, is in Mykonos Town. It’s a convenient location for exploring landmarks like Little Venice and the Archaeological Museum, and shops and restaurants are nearby.
Ornos. The Ornos area is family-friendly, with a beautiful sandy beach and offers a variety of restaurants, beach clubs, and water activities. It is still located near Mykonos Town and provides a more relaxed atmosphere.
Psarau. Known for its upscale and glamorous atmosphere, Psarau is home to high-end beach clubs and luxury resorts. This area is ideal for those seeking a more exclusive and sophisticated experience. It is a popular location among social influencers looking for the perfect picture snap.
We stayed at Ubud Mykonos, a stunning boutique hotel with fantastic sunset views overlooking the sea. This was the perfect hotel to end our trip, offering relaxation and tranquillity.
My Other Hotel Picks:
That’s A Wrap!
Each island contributed its unique charm, making Greece the ultimate getaway spot. It’s romantic, pretty, boujee, and gorgeous, and we couldn’t have picked better places to enjoy our time there. So what are you waiting for? The island-hopping trip of a lifetime, Heraklion – Santorini – Naxos – Mykonos, awaits you!
Looking for other European destinations to Explore? Check out five other perfect European Destinations to visit.
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