Ultimate Guide to the Greek islands, ending with a memorable touch in Athens

I’ve created this blog for you to use to save money, visit the best spots (and the places that I couldn't), food that you can’t miss, best places to stay and picking the island that fits your personality.  

This blog is designed to help you save money, visit the best spots, savor unmissable food, and find the perfect accommodations (and anything that we missed that you shouldn’t!). Plus, we’ll help you choose the island that best fits your personality.

Fly into Athens – The Smart Way to Start Your Journey 

Flying directly into Athens is more cost-effective than flying into the islands. We stayed at a hotel undergoing renovations but ideally located just 15 minutes from the airport. Here's why it was perfect for us: 

• Convenient Location: After about a day of travel with layovers, getting to the hotel quickly from the airport was ideal. 

• Free Shuttle Service: The hotel offers a free shuttle to and from the airport. The staff was professional, reliable, and efficient. We called them upon landing, and they arrived in 10 minutes. 

• Friendly Service: The woman who picked us up gave us an overview of the local area and nearby restaurants. Once at the hotel, she checked everyone in and walked us to our rooms. 

• Local Feel: Situated in a small town, the hotel had a cozy, local atmosphere.

By flying into Athens and staying at a nearby hotel with a shuttle service, you get a smoother start to your trip, avoiding the hustle and bustle of the city while still being close to it. 

Pick your island: 

We got the first flight out on Aegean to Santorini and flew domestic – so right when we got off our first day began (no customs)!

Each Greek Island has their unique charm, so choose one that fits your personality. Here’s the research that I gather before we chose the islands that we wanted to go to!  

• Santorini: Perfect for romantics and those who love breathtaking views. Enjoy the iconic sunsets, white-washed buildings, and volcanic beaches. 

• Mykonos: Ideal for party-goers and beach lovers. Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere. 

• Crete: Great for history buffs and nature enthusiasts. Explore ancient ruins, hike in stunning gorges, and relax on diverse beaches.

• Naxos: Best for families and those seeking a quieter experience. Naxos offers beautiful beaches, charming villages, and delicious local food. 

• Milos: Best for the adventurer, the picturesque island is known for its stunning beaches, unique volcanic landscapes, charming villages, rich history, and less touristy, authentic experience.

What to do while you are there:

• Explore: Discover the island’s unique landscapes, from stunning beaches to historical sites. ATV is a must! We rented it and they had convenient pick up/drop off with no additional fees associated. Catamaran cruise, over the sunset - an absolute definite! 

• Food: Indulge in local delicacies. Each island has its specialties, so don’t miss out on fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional desserts.

• Relax: Take time to unwind. Whether it’s lounging on the beach, sailing, or enjoying a spa day, the islands offer plenty of ways to relax. 

End with Athens:  

Visiting Athens offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Here are some compelling reasons to go to Athens: 

Athens has a historical component of the Acropolis and Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus! It’s also filled with so much cultural attractions, like Plaka (historical neighborhood, narrow streets that are made from GRANITE), the changing of the guards at Hellenic! 

Did I mention the vibrant nightlife, filled with carless roads, outdoor dining, five-star restaurants, or delicious street food. Athen’s has it all. 

Let Lap of Luxury Travel personalize the ultimate trip to Greece!