Only a few hours south of hectic Athens lies a treasure trove of islands that will enchant visitors and have them returning time and time again, writes Michael Romei.

The Greek Islands offer views that enter the realm of fantasy. (Image: M Romei)

It’s hard to believe that only a couple of hours south of the schmozzle that is Athens, across the shimmering azures and sapphires of the Greek sea, lies a treasure trove of islands whose abundant charms and beauty put the mainland capital to shame. The Greek Islands are a must-see for any self-respecting traveller, and for those who have been the memories of an endless array of indecently attractive seaside villages, cascading cliffs (with more than a few chapels propped on top) and sleepless nights of partying will stay with them long after their reluctant departure.

So don’t think about it, do it! When you land in Athens, streamline straight for Piraeus Port and hop on a ferry – with over 150 islands to choose from (and each with their own individual personality) there’ll never be a dull moment. To help you get started, here’s a beginner’s guide to a few of the best on offer.

Mykonos
If a person can name only one Greek Island, Mykonos is usually it. With a charm and beauty that is only surpassed by its Cycladic cousin Santorini (but boasting a great deal more energy), Mykonos has been the island of choice for Hollywood superstars, wannabe glitterati and oodles of gay men ever since Jackie O – dark sunglasses in tow – popularised the island in the 1960s.

One of many famous windmills on Mykonos. (Image: M Romei)

Mykonos is characterised by windmills, whitewashed square houses, flawless blue waters and a thumping nightlife. The beating heart of the island is the main town of Chóra, where you can get lost (quite literally – it was designed to confuse invading pirates) for hours in the narrow, cobblestoned streets. But not to worry, this maze is brimming with an array of gorgeous boutique stores, enticing restaurants (including the harbour side strip known as Little Venice) and swanky cocktail bars – more than enough to keep you entertained as you while away the hours between sunrise and the next round of all night partying. Oh, and when you stumble across a gyros shop be sure to try one (or three) – this Greek staple that is best described as an open kebab loaded with fries is probably the best (not to mention most economical) form of sustagen on the islands.

For those who are more in the mood for sunning themselves, Mykonos offers plenty of choice (though there are better islands for this). The most popular beaches are Paradise (which becomes a thumping dance arena by night), Super Paradise, Paranga and Elia Beach, and all of these can be reached by bus from the main town. Alternatively, travellers during the high season can take a boat between the beaches, which offers some stunning views of the island – and highlights the ‘clothing optional’ beach policy.

It’s a tough ask since most people party till dawn, but if you manage to rise before noon you should take a boat to the nearby island of Delos, which is said to be the birthplace of Greek god Apollo (the boat trip costs €12, with a €6 entry fee).

The spectacular Oia on Santorini. (Image: M Romei)

Santorini
The other superstar, must-see island is Santorini, nicknamed the ‘Honeymoon Island’ and touted by many as the Lost City of Atlantis. While more sedate than its surrounding cousins, it is without a doubt the most stunning of the Greek offerings. Almost every cave-like building dangles on the edge of a cliff, throwing caution to the wind as they greedily devour the dramatic views that are on offer. And your holiday snaps will be all the richer for it.

The island’s capital of Fira is probably the only exception to Santorini’s reputation as the most tranquil island. It is the destination of choice for young people due to its smattering of nightclubs and bars, super cheap hotels and its central bus station that makes getting around a relatively easy (albeit cramped) affair. But whether you choose to stay in Fira or not, be sure to head there for lunch or dinner one day and eat overlooking Santorini’s flooded caldera, which is accented by the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. Adventurers can take a boat over to the deserted island, though to enjoy the thrill of peering into a still-active volcano be prepared for a sharp ascent in sweltering heat. One challenge that is not recommended, however, is a trek down the hill to Fira’s harbour side base. Populated by hundreds of donkeys who are recruited to carry lazy tourists up and down the cliff, it is probably the only non-spectacular sight on Santorini.

The view from Oia at sunset. (Image: M Romei)

To the north of Fira is the jewel in Santorini’s studded crown, the heart-stopping Oia. Popular with couples, this town has made sunset into an industry, with tourists across the island flocking to Oia in the late afternoon to hustle for a spot to view the sun’s golden descent. Following this, grab dinner at one of Oia’s many spectacular restaurants or cafes, and check out the amusing jewellery stores (it seems more really is more when you have to compete with an imaginary sunset).

On the east and south coasts of Santorini there are beaches galore. Most people make a beeline for the main beach of Kamari, which is famed for its ‘black’ sand and is saturated with hotels, restaurants and bars, or to the ‘White Beach’ of Perissa, with its smooth sand and equally smooth waters. However, if you’re after something truly remarkable (or want to complete a triad of colours), the ‘Red Beach’ in the Akrotiri area is the place to go. Accessible either by boat or by walking over some rocky cliffs, it is well worth the extra effort, with spectacular red lava cliffs that drop into crystal clear waters.

Paros
While Mykonos and Santorini may be the big guns of the Cyclades, don’t fall into the trap of ignoring the other gems on offer. Paros is a welcome relief for more budget-conscious travellers, and is the ideal island for those who love water sports or want to a base from which to explore the bluest coves in the archipelago. Parikia is the capital and main port, boasting a range of restaurants and an obligatory bar or ten, while Naoussa on the other side of the island is where the trendy people seem to flock.

Sailing around crystal clear waters of the Cyclades is an unforgettable experience. (Image: M Romei)

Each year Paros hosts the Windsurfers’ World Cup, and the array of activities available – from windsurfing to sailing to snorkelling – reflects the residents’ great love of the ocean. However, those who need a beach hit will be well accommodated for, with Paros possessing many a white sand beach, the most stunning being Kolymbithres with its natural granite sculptures.

Ios
The Greek Islands have a reputation for their wild nightlife, but none come close to Ios, the tiny island that vies with Ibiza for the title of party capital of the world.

From the Port of Ios it’s a 15-minute bus ride (or a torturous troop up a steep donkey trail) to the picturesque main village of Hora. But while it may be loaded with restaurants, boutiques and bars, you’ll want to continue over the hill and base yourself at the famed Mylopotas Beach. There you can spend the daylight hours playing water sports or recharging your batteries on a beach chair. When night falls, you can head back to Hora for an unrivalled night of partying, or for those who are suffering a bit of sunstroke there’ll be parties galore at Mylopotas.

For those who like to beach hop, there’s 75 kilometres of white sandy beaches on Ios, so you won’t be hard-pressed to find a stretch of sand to call your own. On the way be sure to pop by Plakato in the northwest, which is claimed to be the site of Homer’s Tomb.