Get up early for your first Greek island-hopping destination, Mykonos, which is just over two hours away from Athens on the fast ferry. Although it’s only 35 miles across—making it one of the smaller islands in the Aegean—this island attracts a cosmopolitan crowd drawn to high-end shopping and a nighttime party vibe (or all day revelry, if that’s your thing). But there’s also a quieter, more traditional side of the island waiting to be explored.

Before you leave Athens, check to see if your hotel can serve you an early breakfast or a light bite because the Mykonos ferries start running at 7 a.m. (But it’s worth noting that there are good snacks and coffee on board the ferries: Try the Greek breakfast snack of koulouri, a circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds.) Upon arrival, leave your bags at your hotel and head to Mykonos port via the Old Town. If you’re still hungry, Yummy Mykonos serves up crepes, fruit and yogurt bowls, waffles, and superb coffee in a lovely streetside setting.

Then it’s time to head to the UNESCO World Heritage island of Delos, one of the country’s most important archaeological sites. Supposedly the birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis, the island was a major religious center and port during the 1st millennium B.C. You can buy tickets for the 40-minute boat ride to the island at the main harbor (which includes entrance to the archaeological site). You don’t really need a guide, but there are some available once you get to Delos. Check out the Doric temples, markets, an amphitheater, houses with mosaics, plus the iconic Avenue of the Lions statues.

Tips: Be sure to wear sturdy shoes. Also, since there’s little shade, bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and a hat. There’s also a small café in the museum.

DELOS TOUR OPTIONS

Now that you’re back on dry land, spend some down time exploring the streets of Little Venice around the Old Port, which is lined with atmospheric 19th century stone buildings. From here, you can also see the iconic six stone Windmills, some dating back to the 16th century. The views here are always great, but return at sunset for a truly Instagrammable moment.

Stop in at the Church of Paraportiani, a collection of five churches built starting in the 15th century, that rise out of the landscape like a castle. The views and the architecture are worth it.

Then head to Galleraki, a café and bar in Little Venice. It’s a great spot for a light afternoon snack and pre-dinner wine or beer. Kick back and relax on its balcony seating (which has amazing sea views), but be sure to leave room for tonight’s special meal.

There are plenty of amazing places to eat in Mykonos, but for a night to remember, book a Mykonian meal in a local home turned restaurant. You’ll help prepare traditional recipes using fresh ingredients—nibbling on Greek mezze and sipping wine as you cook—and get insights into Mykonian culture from the friendly host. You’ll enjoy your creations with fellow travelers. The hosts will even drive you back and forth to your hotel, and you’ll get a goodie bag to take home with you at the end of the meal.

Today is all about the water. The northern beaches of Mykonos tend to be quiet and serene, and one of the best ways to explore the coastline is by kayaking. The company Mykonos Kayak runs trips from either Panormos or Agios Sostis beaches. You’ll experience places otherwise inaccessible from land, learn about the different flora and fauna of the island as you pull up and take a small hike over the countryside, then swim, snorkel, and relax on the shore. Best of all, you don’t need prior kayaking experience to join the fun.

Your next destination: Santorini, which is a two-and-a-half to three-hour ferry ride from Mykonos. With its blue domed churches, winding cobblestone streets, and white-washed villages perched above stark black volcanic cliffs, this is what you’re envisioning when you think of the quintessential Greek island.

For many visitors, this is simply a cruise stopover, with just enough time to get a taste of the island. With two days, though, you’ll be able to get an in-depth look at its key sights, have time to relax on the black- and red-sand beaches, and even have time to unwind at a winery (or two). Best of all, you’ll be here at the end of the day to witness the island’s famed sunset.

After you arrive on the island, head to Fira, the island’s capital, to fuel up for your first adventure at VR Cafe/Bar with some powerful Greek coffee. Not only is it a solid brunch spot, it also overlooks your next destination: Santorini’s legendary caldera. (Tip: VR is also a top spot for an evening cocktail while you watch the sunset, so plan a return visit late in the day.)

Today it’s time to take in a picture-postcard coastal village carved into the rock face with a hike from Fira to Oia. The six-mile unmarked hiking trail goes over cobblestones and donkey paths, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. It’s well worth it for the views of the Aegean Sea and the volcano. Plus, you’ll pass through the pretty villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli along the way, with their sugar-cube whitewashed houses dripping with colorful bougainvillea.

The hike can take three to five hours, depending on your speed and the time of day you set off, so leave early enough that you reach Oia in time for lunch and can avoid walking in the midday heat, there’s not a lot of shade en route. Don’t want to do it alone? On the Santorini Caldera Fira to Oia Hike, you’ll be part of a small group. You’ll trek past traditional villages, cave houses, and spectacular lookout points as you learn about the volcano’s history—information you wouldn’t get if you were going solo. You’ll also be shown how to get back to Fira if you’re not going to stay in Oia.

Note that if you’re not up for hiking, it’s easy to drive from one village to the other or to take the public bus (about a 20-minute ride). Both options provide stunning views and allow you to have a more leisurely morning.

Your next Cycladic island adventure is Naxos, the greenest of the Cycladic islands, thanks to its high mountains and lush valleys. Although it is becoming increasingly popular, it has managed to escape the mass tourist crowds—making it a lovely respite from busier islands like Mykonos and Santorini. An early-morning ferry will get you here. The first ferries usually leave Santorini at around 9.30 a.m. and take about one-and-a-half hours, so you’ll arrive just before midday.

NAXOS TOURS

Upon arrival at the Port of Naxos (aka the town of Chora), you’ll find a string of tavernas and restaurants lining the promenade. Have lunch at the Naxos Apothecary Porta at the end of the harbor, where you can shop for homemade body-care products while you eat. The small but thoughtfully prepared menu features local dishes with a twist—think, egg, tomato, and strawberry salad or pork with roast potatoes. Relax with a glass of wine and take in the gorgeous harbor views; you’ll love it so much you may even choose to come back for dinner.

After lunch it’s time to relax on the beach. Agios Georgios—or Saint George—is right by Naxos harbor, so you don’t have to travel far. It’s the island’s most popular beach, thanks to its long stretch of sand, clear waters, and spectacular views of Paros island in the distance. It’s also fully organized, meaning, there are sunbeds and umbrellas to rent, as well as water sports at one end of the beach. Families also love it, since it’s quite shallow.

A 15-minute stroll from the beach brings you to the Temple of Apollo, also known as Portara on the headland. It’s a massive marble doorway that sits on a small islet linked by a causeway. According to ancient Greek mythology, the Minoan Princess Ariadne was abandoned here by Theseus—her lover and the King of Athens—after he slayed the Minotaur monster on Crete. It’s a gorgeous place to see the sunset, and yes, it gets busy, but it is worth it.

Head back into town to freshen up before dinner at Barozzi Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, housed in a renovated 1930s neoclassical building with a roof terrace. This fine-dining restaurant serves three-, five-, and seven-course menus with dishes such as rabbit ravioli, sea bass, and Angus steak, paired with wines. Don’t miss the negronis by the resident mixologist. Reservations are required. If fine dining isn’t your thing, check out Metaxi Mas Taverna, with its traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, pastitsio (Greece-style lasagna), and gyros.

Naxos is not a hedonistic party island like Mykonos: Its nightlife is more sedate with good music sets paired with great views across the Aegean Sea. Naxos Town itself has a selection of clubs and bars to choose from to see the night away. We love The Rum Bar Cocktails and Spirits for the sunsets, the rum drinks (there’s a huge variety), and the DJ sets.

Head back to Parikia to hit the Frankish castle, just in time for sunset. Known locally as Frangokastelo, this 13th century building isn’t so much a castle as a group of buildings clustered together. It was originally built to stop pirates from invading the town; the walls are now whitewashed. During its time there were four chapels inside—and the ancient columns are still visible.

Hibiscus Restaurant—one of the oldest restaurants in town—is set right under a massive ficus tree and serves a mixture of Greek and Italian cuisine, great views across the harbor, and indoor and outside seating. Dishes not to miss include eggplant stuffed with parmesan, chicken in a feta sauce, and thin crust pizzas cooked in the wood-burning stove.

Nightlife on Paros is similar to Naxos—a far cry from hedonistic Mykonos. Bebop X Joomla is the spot for cocktails, wines, jazz, and great sunset viewing. The Pirate Bar serves wine and beer in a small, cozy place tucked down a narrow side street. For a beach party vibe, head to Cabana Beach Bar. It opens in the early morning, so you can pay for your lux sunbed and stay here all day. At night, it migrates into a beach club with parties, signature cocktails, and DJ stints.

Today is all about exploring a different side of the island—the inland villages. It is possible to use the KTEL public buses (which leave from the main bus station at the port of Parikia), but the timetable is pretty irregular. To navigate Paros on your own terms and not rely on public transport, it’s best to rent a car. And a note: Automatic cars are not readily available on most Greek islands, so check at the time of booking and make sure you’re comfortable with a stick shift. There are plenty of car rental companies in Parikia, so take your pick.

Grab breakfast at a bakery like Tseriki, located on a narrow back street. Choose from sweet and savory pies, pastries, and excellent Greek coffee to kickstart your day. From here, it’s only a five-minute walk to the Archaeological Museum, which is temporarily closed but has outdoor exhibitions on view.

Within 15 minutes, you’ll be in the mountain village of Lefkes, set high on a hill covered in olive and pine trees. Originally Paros’s capital during the Middle Ages, it’s a typical Cycladic traditional village with whitewashed houses, many now used as hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants. It only has about 300 permanent inhabitants. It’s a rarity in Greece, still untouched by mass tourism.

Wander the town’s cobbled streets and see the imposing Monument to the Hero of Wars, the Byzantine white marble huge Church of Agia Triada (the Holy Trinity), and the Folklore Art Museum (which exhibits tools and clothing from times past). There are several boutiques not to miss along its cobbled alleyways like ONEIPA Concept Store and Blackrose, which both sell Greek-made products.

Head to Parikia port to catch your ferry or your flight back to Athens. If you opt for the ferry, there are several options a day and they take between two hours and 50 minutes and five hours. To make the most of your last day in Athens, it’s advisable to take the fast ferry that leaves at 11 a.m. and arrives at 2.50 p.m. This gives you an afternoon to unwind in a different part of Athens—the Athenian Riviera.

Upon arrival at the port of Piraeus, head immediately by taxi—30 minutes—to the gorgeous Lake Vouliagmeni for a natural spa experience to while away your afternoon. This is a hidden gem in the Athenian Riviera—a lake set in an idyllic landscape that’s considered a geological wonder. Both the sea and subterranean thermal springs provide a unique and natural thermal spa experience, continually replenishing the lake’s brackish waters.

Lake Vouliagmeni is a top attraction in the Athens Riviera thanks to its exceptional attributes; it has water temperatures ranging from 72 to 84 degrees throughout the year. The therapeutic properties of the lake’s waters are renowned for their healing benefits, plus there are Garra Rufa—the skin nibbling fish—swimming freely around to remove any coarse or dry skin.

Lake Vouliagmeni has an entrance fee and two areas. The “normal” area has seating at tables, umbrellas, and comfortable cushioned sunbeds. But the more expensive “prive” area is worth it— there are fewer people and sunbeds scattered around a grassy area with natural shade from trees. (You can also sign up for a private tour from Athens, if you want someone else to do all the planning for you.)