Travel from Piraeus and Heraklion to the must-visit islands of the Aegean and enjoy the holiday experience with Minoan Lines!
Dreamy beaches, a scenery of unparalleled beauty, traditional delicacies, and warm hospitality. In the Cyclades islands, you will find all you want from your Greek summer and even more! And since the choices are unlimited, Minoan Lines takes you on a journey from Piraeus and Heraklion to the wonderful Cyclades and suggests 6 plus 1 top destinations you must visit and which you will adore for their unique character. So organize your holiday getaways from the port of Piraeus and Heraklion and travel to the hottest islands of the Aegean in just a few hours!
Syros, the majestic
First stop: the queen of the Cyclades! Wander in the narrow streets of Ermoupoli, admire the grand neoclassical buildings, and get to know the island’s rich history with a visit to the Industrial Museum, the Museum of Markos Vamvakaris, and the Apollo Theater. Aside from culture, Syros also hides idyllic beaches in every corner, including Platis Gialos, Azolimnos, and Kini. When it comes to local flavors, without a doubt, the island is a paradise for those who have a sweet tooth, thanks to its famous “loukoumia” and “halvadopites”!
Mykonos, the cosmopolitan
Full of life and energy, it’s not without reason that “the island of the winds” is one of the favorite destinations for many international stars! Enjoy your walk in the enchanting Town or “Chora”, with its cobbled alleyways and windmills, gaze at the sunset from Little Venice, and, for shopping and late night partying, all roads lead to Matoyianni Street. In the morning, dive into the crystal blue waters of Psarou and Paradise, and before leaving the island, don’t forget to try spicy “kopanisti” cheese and juicy sausages.
Paros, the exciting
In the center of the Cyclades is Paros, an island with activities for everyone! If you are searching for an adrenaline rush, the bays of Pounta and Chrissi Akti are ideal for water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. The island is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, the heart of which is located at the small port of Naoussa. However, if you are looking for peace and quiet, Paros won’t disappoint you. Just visit its top sight, the church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, followed by the quaint villages of Lefkes, Marpissa, and Prodromos for a bowl of tasty chickpea soup.
Naxos, the captivating
On the largest island of the Cyclades, antiquity meets medieval mystery and creates a scenery that is waiting for you to discover it! Upon arrival at the port of Naxos town, you are greeted by the imposing marble Great Door or “Portara”, while the numerous impressive Venetian towers follow. The adventure continues in the mountain villages of Filoti and Apeiranthos, where fine cheeses, renowned Naxian potatoes, and the exquisite citrus liqueur are never missing from any table. Down towards the sea, you will find your own summer haven on the beaches of Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios.
Santorini, the romantic
With its breathtaking sunset as its trademark, Santorini invites you to a world full of colors, flavors, and images. Savor the unique experience of a voyage through Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli, with the final destination being Oia and the awe inspired by the sight of the volcano. After all, this is why the islands' beaches are so colorful; just look at the Red Beach, Vlychada, and Perivolos. Of course, an integral part of your journey must be an introduction to the local cuisine, beginning with a taste of fava, fine wines, and a selection of appetizing fritters!
Tinos, the mesmerizing
Linked until recently almost exclusively to religious tourism, Tinos is now one of the most up-and-coming destinations for nature, art, and gastronomy enthusiasts! First, travel to the island’s villages by following the network of old mountain trails: from Pyrgos, with the house-museum of the sculptor Yannoulis Chalepas, to Volax with the towering granite rocks. Under the shadow of the plane trees, you will enjoy tasty treasures such as “louza” meat, “graviera” cheese, and sweet “tsimbita”. After your mountain hike, next come Tinos’s beaches. Choose among the popular Kolymbithres, the calming Pachia Ammos, or even Agios Fokas with a view of Delos island.
Milos, the enchanting
Last but not least, an island blessed with astonishing natural beauty. The white rocks, the turquoise sea, and the hidden coves grant Milos a unique charisma you can hardly find elsewhere. With beaches like Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, the island is considered an ideal destination for boat trips and scuba diving into the underwater pirate caves. Apart from the lunar landscape, though, Milos also offers culinary delights. Simply ask to taste watermelon pie or “karpouzopita”, “pittarakia” cheese pies, and the pumpkin-based dessert called “koufeto”!
The top Cyclades destinations will offer you the summer of your dreams. So book your tickets, board the ultra-modern, High-Speed Catamaran SANTORINI PALACE, and set sail for Syros, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Santorini, and Tinos! With itineraries scheduled regularly on a weekly basis at a morning hour (9:00 a.m.) and unique offers on the Cyclades route, now your getaway becomes easier than ever.
If you are planning to visit Milos, Minoan Lines offers you a direct connection with separate itineraries from Piraeus and Heraklion as an in-between stop on the Cretan routes with the vessels H/S/F KNOSSOS PALACE, H/S/F FESTOS PALACE, and H/S/F KYDON PALACE. Take a look at all the details regarding the itineraries of the Piraeus – Milos – Crete (Heraklion and Chania) lines:
