There’s more to the Greek Islands that Santorini or Mykonos, believe it or not. Although you might feel that you have seen all of the Aegean attractions, such as white-washed walls, great beaches, and a vibrant nightlife scene in Mykonos, the Cyclades has more to offer than these tourist destinations. You quickly discover how diverse each island is when island-hopping through Greece. Each island is unique and has its own personality, soul and crowd. It’s almost impossible to compare them. There’s something for everyone, whether you want beaches and blue water, mountain treks or traditional Cycladic architecture, or traditional Greek food, here. Below are some lesser-known Cyclades islands.

Milos

Milos, in all of its rustic, small-town charm, is unanimously beloved by locals and visitors alike. The Cyclades’ best beaches are enough reason to book a vacation. Many consider them the best. Stay at to spend the day exploring the beaches of Sarakiniko, Firopotamos and Tsigrado. After Tsigrado, stop at O!Hamos to have lunch. By boat, you can also visit beaches like Gerakas and nearby islands like Polyaigos. For a quick bite or a glass of wine, you can explore Plaka’s winding streets. You can end your day in Mandarika at Medusa or Klima for a sunset dinner.

Paros

Paros is home to many charming Cycladic villages like Marpissa and Lefkes. But it’s best known for Naossa. This picturesque fishing village is bursting with energy, fresh seafood and crowds (the great kind). Some prefer to go to Santa Maria and Kolympithres during the day. Others may choose to stay at the more remote and rural spots like Kalogeros or Kallitechniko Kafenio near by. Lageri will stop at Siparos for sunset cocktails and dinner. After a restful night at, you can take a 10-minute ferry over to Antiparos, its sister island. This will allow for a short but memorable stay on the newly opened.

Sifnos

This island is a paradise for foodies and a haven for adventurous travelers. You can anchor yourself at and then cruise down the winding cliffside roads towards the most beautiful beaches like Seralia. You can stay here until sunset to enjoy Cantina, a new beachside restaurant. For an afternoon swim, you can stop by the Chrisopigi Monastery for a traditional Chrisopigi Monastery. The stairs lead down to the churchside. Antonis Atsonios is a top-notch ceramicist on Sifnos. Visit his studio at Tsopos Beach, Vathi village. Last but not least, make sure to eat at Omega3, the island’s most renowned seafood restaurant. If you want to take a break from seafood, go to Mamma Mia followed by a night out in Apollonia.

Kimolos

Travelers often visit Kimolos as a day trip from its larger neighbor Milos, but the tiny island has too much to see to simply squeeze into one day. You should spend a few nights at. If you prefer a more rustic lodging, consider. Spend the day in Kimolos’ charming village of Chorio. It is filled with traditional tavernas and shops. Next, make sure you visit the island’s unspoiled beaches, known for their solitude and clear waters. Kimolos is a wonderful escape for people looking for unspoiled beaches, charming coastal villages, and some R&R.

Andros

Due to Andros’ close proximity to Athens (a quick two-hour ferry), it’s becoming a more frequented island stop along the Cyclades, and rightfully so. The accommodations alone make it a great place to anchor. For a true hotel experience, stay at or book a stay in a charming B&B that focuses on gastronomy and cultural heritage. You can explore the best beaches of the island (of which there are many), such as Achla, Plaka and Vlychada. Andros is a paradise for hikers because of the abundance of lush valleys and scenic mountain peaks. There are also rivers that can be explored around Menites village. You’re also likely to find traditional villages and tavernas. Explore the island’s main village of Chora, which combines Venetian, Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. You can end your day with a sunset at Agia Marina and dinner at Aegean Balcony in Batsi.

Folegandros

In Folegandros’ neighboring islands, Paros and Santorini, you really have to dig to find the non-organized beaches, but secluded beaches with raw, scenic backdrops are the majority in Folegandros. Agali Beach is one of the most popular non-organized beaches. However, it’s worth a visit for its spectacular views, people-watching and close-by tavernas. Galifos, known as a nudist beach, and Livadaki are two other options for less-crowded beaches. Fira Beach is the best place to see the sunset. Spend the day wandering through the shaded streets in Chora lined with Bougainvillea and lime trees. Enjoy a relaxing time in Kastro, which has beautiful medieval streets and traditional Tavernas. The church of Panagia is located on the top of a hill with views of Chora.

Amorgos

Amorgos, known for its stunning mountains, is home to many hiking trails that can be used by all levels of adventurers. You’ll see a lot of historical sites along the route, including the Monastery of Hozoviotissa cliffside, where you can walk down to Agia Anna Beach, or visit the Kalotaritissa Shipwreck, easily seen at Kalotaritissa Beach. To see Amorgos windmills, you can also visit Troullos in Chora. Amorgos is a beautiful island with historical sites and unspoiled beaches. It also has the charms that you would expect from a Cycladic island with its traditional Aegean villages like Chora, Aegialis and Katapola.