The best places to stay in Cyclades?

The Cyclades islands include around 220 islands, most of them uninhabited. The name translates as ‘circular islands’ because they form a circular chain around the sacred island of Delos. Tourists usually travel to Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros (and Antiparos), Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos and Santorini.
The islands are submerged peaks of mountainous terrain, except for two volcanic islands, Milos and Santorini. They offer beautiful soft sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, and their landscape is generally arid and mountainous and contrasts with the blue sky and sea. The climate is sunny, dry and mild for much of the year. The soil is not very fertile, and the main agricultural crops include wine, fruit, wheat, olive oil and tobacco.
The charming traditional villages, with whitewashed houses, narrow streets and bougainvilleas, are distinctive features of the Cyclades. Some islands such as Naxos, Milos and Koufonisia are particularly famous for their beaches.
For nightlife lovers, Mykonos and Ios are popular party destinations. In addition, the islands are well connected to each other, making island-hopping easy.
Although Santorini and Mykonos attract more luxury tourism, there are other more affordable destinations with cheaper accommodation, such as Paros, Naxos, Milos and Amorgos. Almost all of the islands have a rich history, with ancient remains to explore, having been inhabited by various civilisations over time, leaving a significant cultural and archaeological footprint.
We have rounded up a number of the best boutique hotels and holiday homes in the Cyclades Islands, ranging from traditional villas with views, boutique hotels in the Cyclades in villages with narrow winding streets, country hotels with terraces with magnificent sea views. There is plenty to choose from and they are the best. If in doubt, you can always ask our advice.

The most beautiful islands of the Cyclades and where to stay

Choose from our unique selection of romantic hotels in the Cyclades islands by clicking on the map or list on the right. These will highlight a wide selection of hotels, including boutique Andros hotels, guesthouses bed & breakfasts, amongst others. Whatever your taste, we’ll help you find that perfect getaway in the Cyclades.

The Cycladic cuisine

A variety of regional dishes can be enjoyed in the Cyclades. The basis of Cycladic cuisine is fresh vegetables, herbs, olive oil and fish. A lot of emphasis is placed on quality ingredients that are rich in flavour, which is why seasonal and regional products are often used. Fishing is particularly important on the islands. Fresh fish and seafood can be found in abundance. But there is also a lot of agriculture on the islands. A lot of fruit and vegetables are grown, and figs, prickly pears and grapes are particularly typical of the region. Dried capers and figs are a speciality on many islands in the Cyclades. But cheese, such as the well-known Greek sheep's or goat's cheese, can also be found everywhere. It is often enriched with herbs or honey. Goat or lamb meat is particularly popular on holidays. Garnished with aromatic herbs, both are also often found in local tavernas.
A classic of Cycladic cuisine is "fava", a creamy yellow pea paste. It is often served as an appetiser together with crusty bread. Another delicious appetiser is the "Tomatokeftedes", a characteristic dish from Santorini. These are tomato balls made of fresh tomatoes, onions, herbs and spices that are deep-fried. Santorini has particularly aromatic tomatoes, which are enriched with various herbs and made into great dishes. "Fourtalia", an omelette-like dish traditionally from the island of Andros, is also typical of the region. The dish is made with eggs, potatoes, roasted pork, sausage and fresh spices and should be found in every taverna.