There are over 6,000 islands and inlets in Greece, but only 227 of those islands are inhabited. That’s still a whole lot of islands to cover! Luckily, I had Anastasios (a Greek!) who more than knows his way around the Greek Isles! I was so excited to explore some other islands in the Aegean with him – sides of the Greek Islands I had never seen before! We got to experience the classic quaintness of Spetses, the magic of Hydra and the charm of Paros – and Antiparos!
Believe it or not, Mykonos and Santorini are not the only two Greek island destinations in the Aegean! The two clusters of islands we visited were the Cyclades and the Saronic Islands. Spetses & Hydra are located in the Saronic Islands, then Paros, Antiparos are situated in the Cyclades. I found a pretty helpful map that lays out all the Greek Islands and their grouping – I inserted it below!
The food was so incredible throughout this trip was top-notch. While Greek food can have its decadent offerings (fried feta with honey – my Achilles heel) after two weeks in Greece I didn’t get tired of the fresh Greek Salads and amazing mezze dips! For all of these islands, you can book a ferry to get from island to Island. Depending on your route, you might have to travel back to Athens before heading out.! We took a total of 6 ferries on our trip and it was definitely the easiest way to travel for sure. They are all quite punctual and had snacks or drinks on board! Transportation, once you get to each of the islands, differs: I’d recommend getting an ATV/quad in Spetsus, Hydra is just foot traffic or mules so no need (!), in Paros I’d rent a small car – you can take it on the ferry to Antiparos as well to drive!
SPETSES
About a 2-hour ferry ride away from Athens. About a 30-minute ferry ride from the Island of Hydra.
Spetses is famous for its distinctive neoclassical captain’s mansions, narrow streets, and traditional, charming character. Only a two-hour ferry ride away from Athens, it’s a common & convenient Athenian getaway for a weekend destination. As well as the excellent restaurants, Spetses has quite a buzzing nightlife for its size. There are also gorgeous beaches. Private cars are banned on the island – one reason it has a reputation for being so peaceful!
If you only have a few days in Spetses, I’d recommend eating at Orloff, Liotrivi , NTA “Water of Love” or the farm at Bostani. Grab breakfast at Bikini and spend an afternoon at Kaiki or Vrelos beach clubs! Grab drinks at Hono & Lulu, and Palms Bar at Poseidonion Hotel! I’d recommend renting an ATV or Vespa to get around the island with ease! Some beaches you might want to venture to are an easy 8- to 10-minute ride away. We rented through Moto Kentros – Mimoza Travel – and be sure to ask for Mr. Kostas! Also, fun fact: the recent movie “The Lost Daughter” with Olivia Coleman was filmed here!
To Eat:
- *Liotrivi – The “Olive Press” is located right on the water’s edge and has great seafood! Be sure to dine on the dock! You can’t go wrong getting their calamari and baked feta!
- On the Verandah – Located on the patio of the Poseidonion Hotel, they are serving up contemporary Greek dishes infused with local traditions at this chic establishment.
- Patralis – Great seafood option! Their lobster linguini and
- Mourayo – This seafood restaurant has a great location by the sea, situated on the deck. Excellent service and warm hospitality. Food is very tasty, and the portions are quite big, so it’s better to share!
- *NTA “Water of Love” – This was an elevated and fun spot! We got to pick out our own fish
- *Orloff – One of my favorite dinners we had on the island, and they have such a cute set-up! Classic Greek cuisine I loved the Pink Basil Smash and Orlof Spritz! They also have a resort on the island.
- Clock Eatery – A more casual Italian restaurant if you’re looking for a change from Greek cuisine!
- Zogeria Tavern – Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Spetses, it’s a great spot for a casual Greek lunch!
- *Bikini – Located just above the Bikini “bottom,” the “top” is a really solid spot for breakfast – get the avocado toast and the burger! They have an incredible view as well!
- Cockatoo – Cheap and easy souvlaki spot located right at the port! This might have been one of my favorite souvlaki we had all trip!
- Tarsanas – For over 25 years, Tarsanas has been an established household name amongst visitors and locals who enjoy the finest seafood-based cuisine! Owned by the same group bringing you NTA!
- La Scala – Located on the patio of a luxury hotel this is a solid spot for Italian! Their pizza is exceptional and be sure to get the figs & gorgonzola! The chocolate semifreddo is a must for dessert!
- Kazoku Sushi Bar – A newer sushi spot with fantastic cocktails!
- Bostani by Poseidon (one seating) – Visit the organic farm where you’ll be able to pick your own vegetables and herbs before sitting down to enjoy with friends & family! We didn’t get to eat here because it was fully booked! Gotta have a reason to come back!
- Bouboulina– This seafood tavern is a good option for a casual lunch by the port!
- Agios – A great Mediterranean/ Greek spot that is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s definitely meat-centric but has some delicious pasta options as well!
- Karagiánnēs Bakery – Great on-the-go Greek pastries for breakfast or a sweet treat for later in the afternoon!
- Alfi’s – A local favorite, serving up delicious ice cream!
- *Kapelogiannist – Cute and casual lunch spot next to the water. They had great sardines, taramasalata and fava dip!
To Drink:
- *Hono & Lulu – A fun, elevated cocktail bar and club with a playful Hawaiian-meets-Tiki vibe that makes for a great night out!
- Guzel – The Spetses outpost of the popular Athens nightlife spot, bringing a stylish crowd, DJs and plenty of late-night energy to the island.
- Le Luz – A longtime Spetses nightlife favorite for cocktails, music and a buzzy atmosphere that gets livelier as the night goes on.
- Throubi Bar – A relaxed but lively island bar that’s great for cocktails, good music and easing into a night out in Spetses.
- *Bikini – A super-fun late-night spot with a younger crowd, upbeat music and the kind of energy that can easily keep you out until the early hours!
- *Booze – Such a fun, no-frills bar with great music, a lively crowd and an atmosphere that makes it very easy to stay for another round!
- *Palms Bar – Located at the beautiful Poseidonion Grand Hotel, this is the perfect spot for a sunset cocktail on the verandah before heading to dinner.
- Cielo Mar – A laid-back all-day waterfront bar that’s perfect for coffee by day and cocktails with a sea view as the sun goes down.
- Pura Vita – A cute, health-focused coffee shop serving great coffee and lighter bites that’s perfect for grabbing something on the go!
To Do:
- Spend the afternoon at Kaiki Beach Club on the daybeds- and go paddleboarding!
- Rent an ATV or Vespa at Moto Kentros – Mimoza Travel (and ask for Mr. Kostas!)
- Shop at Orio Design a cute jewelry shop – where I got my classic “evil eye” bracelet!
- Cook & experience an elevated Greek meal at Bostani Farm!
- Visit the Bouboulina Muesum
- Beaches:
- Agia Paraskevi
- Agia Marina
- Agioi Anargiri
- Kaiki – Chic beach club worth spending an afternoon at!
- Town Beach
- Xilokeriza
- Zogeria
- Paralia Garifalos
To Stay:
- Guesthouse Niriides – A cute & quaint boutique bed & breakfast located close to the central harbor. We loved our stay here as the owners were so sweet and the breakfast every morning was fantastic.
- Orloff Resort – Wonderfully contemporary chic hotel with rooms, suites, and two private villas sleeping 10 each. Wonderful pool, spa, and all-white rooms with all the mod cons. A great choice for couples, families, or groups of friends.
- *Poseidonion Grand Hotel Spetses – Super luxurious hotel on the coastline of Spetses overlooking the harbor. All-white bedrooms and suites are enormous with private balconies! Reminded me of J.K. Place in Capri!
HYDRA
About a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Athens. About a 30-minute ferry from the island of Spetses.
The island of Hydra was so special and one of my favorites we visited! The architecture looks the same as it did in the 1800s: there are no cars, bicycles, or mopeds – just lots of mules, and plenty of walking. While there are no sand beaches near the main port, many people gather on the large rocks around Spilia Beach Bar and Hydronetta to lay out/dive off of them! The sunsets in Hydra were something magical. They seemed to last an hour and were some of the most beautiful ones I’ve experienced!
If you only have a few days in Hydra, I’d for sure dine at Téchnē, Sunset Restaurant, and Spilia Beach Bar. Be sure to spend a half-day at the Mandraki Beach Club – we loved the sushi there – and grab cocktails at Hydronetta (for sunset!), Castello (for sunset!) and Plakostroto!
To Eat:
- *Téchnē – One of Hydra’s standout dinner spots, blending elevated Mediterranean cooking with a stylish modern atmosphere tucked into the island’s charming backstreets.
- Little England (“Mikra Agglia“) – A cozy café and breakfast spot serving coffee, pastries, and relaxed morning plates just steps from the harbor.
- *Sunset Restaurant – A must-visit in Hydra for long lunches or sunset dinners right by the water. The taramosalata, calamari, and seafood pasta were some of the best dishes we had all trip.
- Bratsera Restaurant (at Bratsera Hotel) – Located inside the beautiful Bratsera Hotel, this elegant courtyard restaurant serves refined Greek and Mediterranean dishes in a peaceful setting.
- *Castello – One of the best sunset spots on Hydra, pairing cocktails, swimming, and beautiful sea views with a lively beach club atmosphere.
- Omilos – Perched directly above the harbor rocks, Omilos serves contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with incredible waterfront views and a stylish island atmosphere.
- Il Casta – A charming Italian restaurant serving comforting pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and relaxed dinners in the heart of Hydra Town.
- Kodylenia’s Taverna – A traditional Greek taverna known for home-style cooking, fresh seafood, and classic island hospitality.
- Argi’s – A great little smoothie and snack shop where you can grab smoothie bowls, fresh juices, wine, and light bites throughout the day.
- Pirofani Taverna – A relaxed café and brunch spot serving fresh healthy plates and a great alternative to the classic Greek tomato-feta-cucumber breakfast routine.
- *The Cool Mule – Hidden away in Kamini, this old-school taverna is absolutely worth the detour for authentic Greek cooking and the unforgettable personality of its owner, Theo.
- Karamela Zaxaroplasteion –A must-stop for homemade gelato and ice cream while wandering through Hydra’s harbor streets.
- *Kai Kremmidi (“… and Onion”) – A casual little spot tucked into the backstreets near Hydra’s port, serving some of the island’s best gyros, souvlaki and kebabs. Super affordable and makes an easy lunch when you want something quick and delicious!
- Drougas Bakery – A classic Greek bakery stop for fresh breads, savory pies and sweet pastries—perfect for grabbing breakfast or something to take along for a beach day.
To Drink:
- Hydronetta – One of the best sunset spots on Hydra, perfect for cliffside swimming followed by spritzes and incredible golden-hour views from the rocks above the sea.
- Spilia Beach Bar – A fun waterfront swimming and lunch spot built directly into the rocks, serving cocktails, burgers, bao buns, and beach club energy all day long.
- Amalour – Hydra’s coolest late-night cocktail bar, known for funky eclectic interiors, creative drinks, and one of the island’s liveliest dance scenes after dark.
- Pirate Bar – A longtime Hydra favorite that shifts from laid-back café by day to lively cocktail bar at night, complete with DJs, creative drinks, and a fun local crowd.
- Plakostroto – A charming ivy-covered terrace bar serving excellent cocktails in one of the prettiest tucked-away corners of Hydra Town.
To Do:
- Take a swim on the rocks! Just below Hydronetta & Sunset restaurant was my favorite spot!
- *Mandraki Beach Club – Great sand beach that is perfect to rent daybeds & hang out all day at! They have delicious sushi & bao buns here, trust me! There are boat transfers from the port every 30 minutes (a 10-minute ride)!
- see Jeff Koons’ APOLLO Exhibit (until October 2022)
- Shop:
- Catch an open-air movie! There’s an outdoor cinema playing modern and old films with cats that wander across the top of the screen. The schedule is on the port near the donkeys in a green frame and you find it by going up the alley where Elena Votsi is on the right corner. Keep going up it’s on the right-hand side.
- Go scuba diving!
- Beaches:
To Stay:
- Hotel Leto Hydra – A beautiful boutique hotel just steps from the harbor offering elegant rooms, a great breakfast buffet, and even a small workout room — a rare bonus on Hydra. Where I stayed and loved!
- Hydra Hotel – A stylish family-run boutique hotel blending traditional island architecture with modern minimalist interiors in a peaceful setting near the port.
- Bratsera Traditional Hotel – One of Hydra’s most charming stays, set inside a restored 19th-century sponge factory with a gorgeous courtyard pool and classic island character.
- Douskos Guest House – A simple and charming guesthouse right on the main square, perfect for travelers wanting a central and authentic Hydra stay.
- Cactus Hydra – A collection of playful design-forward apartments, each inspired by a different cactus plant and decorated with whimsical hand-painted murals and colorful interiors.
PAROS
About a 4-hour ferry ride from Athens. About an hour ferry ride from Mykonos.
To me, Paros felt like a more family-friendly Mykonos: with it’s abundance of dining and bar options, great shopping, and white-washed streets! Staying in or near the village of Naousa would be my recommendation! Naousa is a picturesque fishing village with plenty of traditional charm. Only 10kms from Parikia, the narrow streets between whitewashed architecture make it feel 50 years away. There was definitely a fun nightlife atmosphere here!
If you’re only in Paros for a few days, I’d grab dinner at Kapari, Barbarossa, and lunch at Monastiri Beach Restaurant! Catch a sunset from the bar at Deck Bar Restaurant and grab drinks at Stilvi, and Santé Cocktail Bar (my favorite)! For getting around I would recommend getting a rental car. You can also take it to Antiparos on the ferry! We booked our car rental here!
To Eat:
- *Kapari – Loved this spot! Casual but elevated Aegean cuisine done right, with some of the best taramosalata and saganaki we had on Paros.
- Soso – This tiny, romantic spot in Naoussa serves refined Greek food that still feels wonderfully homey. The intimate setting makes it a great date-night dinner.
- Barbarossa – One of the most fun dinner experiences in Naoussa, with elevated Mediterranean cuisine and a lively Greek-island atmosphere right by the harbor. It books up fast, so definitely make a reservation!
- Barbarossa Sushi – From the same team behind Barbarossa, this is a great option when you’re craving sushi on the island. Expect fresh rolls and Japanese-inspired dishes in a chic seaside setting.
- LUAZ – A romantic Naoussa restaurant serving beautifully presented, elevated Greek and Mediterranean fare. The stylish setting makes it especially good for a date night or celebratory dinner.
- Yemeni Wine Restaurant – A cute and quaint Naoussa favorite serving rustic Mediterranean dishes alongside a great selection of Greek wines. It feels cozy, local and tucked away from some of the busier spots in town.
- Tsachpinis Ouzeri Ton Naftikon – An old-school ouzeri right by the harbor in Naoussa that’s perfect for seafood, meze and a glass of ouzo. Come hungry, order a bunch of plates for the table and settle in for a proper Greek lunch.
- Sigi Ikthios – A longtime Naoussa seafood spot with tables spilling out along the picturesque harbor. Go for fresh fish, seafood and classic Greek dishes with one of the prettiest settings in town.
- Stilvi – Located in an atmospheric courtyard, the menu is based on Mediterranean cuisine but with a modern twist!
- Meat Bar – A very casual but solid souvlaki spot in Naoussa! Perfect when you need something quick, inexpensive and delicious between the beach and drinks.
- Siparos Seaside Restaurant – A beautiful seaside restaurant just outside Naoussa serving modern Greek and Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Go around sunset for dinner with an especially gorgeous view.
- Monastiri Beach Restaurant – One of our favorite lunches on Paros! The setting right by Monastiri Beach is hard to beat, and definitely order the calamari and pork.
- Orbis Seaside Cafe-Restaurant – A gorgeous waterfront spot that’s especially dreamy around sunset. Grab a table overlooking the water for cocktails, Mediterranean dishes and one of those quintessential Paros evenings.
- *O Xilofournos – Come here for their insane cinnamon-sugar pastry cone: soft and warm, filled with Nutella and topped with ice cream. It’s indulgent in the absolute best way!
- Cannelait – A chic little pâtisserie for beautiful pastries, baked goods, cold-pressed juices and great coffee. Perfect for grabbing breakfast or something sweet on the go.
- Chamēlothōrēs – A great local bakery for coffee, ice cream and traditional Greek pastries. Their pastry cone filled with Nutella and topped with ice cream is an absolute must if you have a sweet tooth!
- “The Traditional” Dumplings – Stop here for loukoumades, those addictive little Greek fried-dough balls served hot with sweet toppings. They’re a perfect late-night snack after drinks in Naoussa!
- Blue Restaurant – An excellent beach restaurant right on Golden Beach that’s perfect for a long, lazy lunch by the water. Grab a table overlooking the Aegean and make an afternoon of it.
To Drink:
- Santé Cocktail Bar – One of my favorite cocktail bars of the entire trip, tucked beneath a huge tree in the cutest little square—we loved it so much we ended up here two nights in a row!
- Agosta – A Naoussa nightlife staple right by the water, with cocktails, music and a lively crowd that keeps going late into the night.
- Come Back – A vibey waterfront bar with a patio overlooking the sea that’s perfect for cocktails and a fun late-night crowd.
- Deck Bar Restaurant – One of the best places in Naoussa to grab a cocktail and watch the sun set over the Aegean.
- Stilvi – Recommended for dinner above, but it’s also a great place to stick around—or come back—for lively drinks and music later in the evening.
- Trickster Bar – A fun little tiki-inspired cocktail bar that’s perfect for something tropical and a change of pace from the classic Greek-island bars.
- Linardo – One of Naoussa’s iconic late-night spots, set right on the water and known for a lively crowd that keeps the party going until the early hours.
- I Tria – A tiny, buzzy cocktail bar tucked into the winding streets of Naoussa that’s great for a drink before heading out for the night.
- Fotis All Day Bar – A laid-back waterfront spot that transitions from relaxed daytime drinks to cocktails and a livelier atmosphere after dark.
To Do:
- Hike the Byzantine Road
- Tour the artist town of Lefkes
- Explore Aliki Fishing Village
- Take a day trip to Antiparios
- Shop:
- Miss Candlestick – handmade candles on the island!
- Alénia – Jewelry shop
- Two’s Architecture & Design – Cute interior shop!
- Antique shop – right next to TWO’s!
- Blow
- Yria Studio
- Bottles Premium Hangover – This high-end convenience shop has such a great selection of drinks & snacks!
- Spend the day at Monastiri Beach Club
- Visit the Monastery of St. John’s of Deti, right next to Monastiri Beach Club
- Go scuba diving!
- Transportation:
- Beaches:
- Kolymbithres
- Monastiri
- Santa Maria
- Golden Beach
- Lageri Beach – nude gay beach
To Stay:
- Ammos – A beautiful boutique stay in Naoussa that feels perfectly tucked away from the crowds while still being just steps from the heart of town. The communal terrace and included breakfast make it especially charming for a slower island stay.
- High Mill Paros – Set on a hillside just outside Parikia, this relaxed hotel offers sweeping Aegean Sea views, stunning sunsets, and a lovely pool overlooking the water.
- Sandaya Luxury Suites – A sleek modern boutique hotel designed for travelers looking to unwind in style after long beach days and island exploring. Minimalist interiors and a peaceful atmosphere make it a great escape in Paros.
- Quartano – A stylish Cycladic-style hotel in Naoussa featuring beautiful suites, lush gardens, and easy access to the lively restaurants, bars, and nightlife nearby.
- The Cove – A serene seafront luxury resort blending elegant suites, private pools, and laid-back Aegean beauty with a chic all-day beach club atmosphere.
ANTIPAROS
About a 4-hour ferry ride from Athens to Paros, then a 10-minute ferry ride from Paros to Antiparos. You can catch a ferry every 20 minutes from Parikia and Pounda port on the western part of the island! You can bring your car on the ferry as well!
At only a nautical mile southwest of Paros stands the islet of Antiparos. Though people usually visit on a day trip from Paros, if you are looking for a quiet beach holiday – it’s a good choice. It creates the perfect summer getaway, both for single-day boat trips and a few overnight stays. This tiny island has been made somewhat famous by the celebrities who summer here: Tom Hanks, Pierce Brosnan, and Whoopie Goldberg to name a few! This Cycladic islet is rather tranquil compared to its sister island Paros, with emphasis on the Cycladic elements and traditional lifestyle.
To Eat:
- Anargyros – Elevated Greek cuisine meets modern techniques at this charming Antiparos spot, with top-quality ingredients and a great Greek wine list. A perfect choice for a slightly more refined dinner on the island!
- Lollo’s – A little taste of Italy in Antiparos, serving delicious wood-fired pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts. Great for an easy, casual dinner when you need a break from Greek food!
- Yam – A fun and funky Antiparos favorite known for creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere. Come for dinner and drinks, or stop by later in the evening when things start to pick up!
- Kalokeri – Refined Aegean cooking using local ingredients in creative, unexpected ways. They serve both brunch and dinner, but it’s especially lovely for a more elevated evening in Antiparos Town.
- Elia Kafenes – A charming little café along the main street that’s perfect for breakfast or a leisurely lunch. Expect fresh salads, Greek meze, coffee and traditional drinks from Antiparos and around Greece.
- Blender – A cute, health-focused café for coffee, smoothies and lighter bites, including plenty of vegan pastries and baked goods. A great grab-and-go breakfast stop before heading to the beach!
- Nautica – A laid-back café that’s great for coffee, breakfast and casual bites throughout the day. An easy spot to pop into while wandering around Antiparos Town.
- Vicky’s Ice Cream – The spot to satisfy your sweet tooth on Antiparos, with more than 40 flavors of homemade ice cream to choose from. Perfect for a scoop—or two—while strolling through town after dinner.
To Drink:
- *Beach House – A gorgeous beach club with a laid-back but fun bar scene—definitely worth spending an afternoon here swimming, lounging and sipping cocktails by the sea!
- *The Rooster – A must for sunset drinks, with a stunning hotel bar and dreamy views that feel quintessentially Cycladic. Be sure to make a reservation!
- Veranda Antiparos – A cozy little spot in Antiparos Town showcasing Greek-made beers, wines and spirits from around the country. Great for a relaxed drink before or after dinner!
- Loco Coffee & Cocktails – A fun all-day spot that takes you from morning coffee to cocktails after dark. Come later in the evening when the atmosphere gets a little livelier!
- Boogaloo – A longtime Antiparos nightlife favorite for cocktails, good music and a fun crowd. It’s an easy place to end up for a few late-night drinks!
- Margarita Cafe – A cute, laid-back café for coffee during the day that turns into a relaxed spot for drinks in the evening. Perfect for some people-watching in Antiparos Town!
- Time Marine – One of the island’s best-known beach bars, set right on beautiful Psaralyki Beach. Grab a cocktail, settle in by the water and make an afternoon of it!
To Do:
- Spend the day lounging at Beach House
- Visit the Church of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis
- Boat to the remote sandy beach of Despotiko Island
- Visit the underground Cave of Antiparos
- Beaches:
- Paralia Sostis
- Faneromeni beach
To Stay:
- The Rooster – Set across 30 acres of rugged hills and sand dunes overlooking unspoiled Livadia Beach, The Rooster is the perfect mix of barefoot luxury and rustic Cycladic charm. I absolutely loved the vibe here—from the restaurant and bar to its hidden Secret Garden—and would highly recommend it!
- Beach House Antiparos – With just eight rooms, Beach House Antiparos is an intimate boutique stay with a relaxed, barefoot feel right by the sea. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something low-key, stylish and away from the bustle of town.
Have you ventured to any Greek Islands yet? If you want to see more than Mykonos & Santorini, I’d highly recommend these beautiful smaller islands in the Cyclades and Saronic Islands! They each offer something totally different, yet you’ll get the full Greek experience on each island in their own little way. I definitely can’t wait to get back to Greece and explore a few more islands – if you have any favorites, let me know!
Stay Risky,
– JT
