Santorini alternatives: Greek islands just as beautiful
Discover islands similar to Santorini!
The Cyclades epitomize Greek summer; take the iconic sunset view of the caldera from Oia in Santorini, for example, where the whitewashed houses and mesmerizing skies seem as if they were plucked out of a painting. However, with increasing crowds, rising prices, and recent earthquake concerns—despite expert assurances of safety—you may want to explore your options. If you're seeking beauty and authenticity beyond Santorini, there are plenty of incredible Aegean islands to consider.
Luckily, there is no shortage of breathtaking islands in the Cyclades, each with its own stunning mix of beaches, scenery, and culture. Whether it’s the search for authenticity, fewer crowds or better value for money, these 5 islands are emerging as top alternatives to Santorini:
- Paros: the Cycladic all-rounder
- Naxos: an authentic taste of Greece
- Milos: Santorini’s lunar cousin
- Folegandros: romantic and untouched
- Amorgos: the island of the deep blue
Discover what each island has to offer and how to reach them, and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper in just a few steps!
The amazing turquoise waters of Kolymbithres beach in Paros
Paros: the Cycladic all-rounder
Once a hidden gem, Paros has steadily gained international fame, and for good reason; with traditional whitewashed villages, golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, buzzing nightlife, and a short hop from Athens, what’s not to love about Paros?
The main town of Parikia is where the island’s heart beats, but beyond that, you will find an abundance of Instagramable spots, such as the seaside village Naoussa with a distinct cosmopolitan vibe, or the hillside village of Lefkes surrounded by pine forests, olive groves and vineyards.
Adventure and thrillseekers will also want to take note of Kolymbithres beach, with its sculpted rock formations, and Golden Beach, a windsurfing hotspot for some of the best swimming and water sports experiences in the Cyclades.
How to get to Paros
Paros’ central port is located in Parikia and connects the island to Athens and other Cycladic islands, including Naxos, Santorini, and Milos.
From the port of Piraeus near Athens, there are up to 6 daily ferry crossings in the high season and the journey takes 3-5 hours. During the summer, you can also hop on a ferry from Rafina port, close to the Athens International Airport, and reach Paros in about 3 hours. Find out all about ferry routes to Paros from the ports of Athens:
Mesmerizing dusk in the whitewashed Naoussa town
Naxos: an authentic taste of Greece
If you are looking for a Greek island that has it all, from dreamy beaches to ancient ruins and deep-rooted traditions, then look no further than Naxos. As the largest and most self-sufficient of the Cycladic islands, there is more to Naxos than postcard-perfect views.
The island’s landmark, Portara, a grand marble gate from an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo, stands proudly at the entrance of Naxos town. Venture further inland and you’ll travel through time, passing by ancient Greek temples, Venetian castles, and remote mountain villages such as Apeiranthos.
Alongside its fair share of stunning beaches and hiking trails, Naxos is a true haven for foodies. Head to any of the island’s family-run tavernas for a taste of the island’s agricultural roots. There you will find dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as the famous Naxian potatoes, creamy graviera cheese, and the island’s signature liqueur, kitron.
How to get to Naxos
You can normally find up to 7 daily crossings to Naxos from Piraeus port in Athens, with the ferry ride lasting 3 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you can usually travel to Naxos from Rafina during the summer, with 2 crossings available per day.
If you are planning an island-hopping adventure, you can also visit Naxos from other Cycladic islands, such as Paros, Santorini and Milos, as well as Heraklion in Crete.
The long, sandy coast of Agios Prokopios in Naxos
Milos: Santorini’s lunar cousin
Arguably one of the best-kept secrets in Greece, Milos offers a quieter, more romantic Greek island escape. With a volcanic landscape similar to Santorini, which means otherworldly beaches and seaside villages, Milos is perfect if you want to experience the Aegean’s raw natural beauty.
Take Sarakiniko beach, for example; often compared to a lunar landscape, its smooth, white volcanic rock formations stand in stark contrast to the turquoise sea. For something a bit more intimate though, you will need to go off the beaten path and board a boat to Kleftiko, famous for its sea caves and azure waters.
Milos has much more to offer though than dramatic coastlines. You can experience first-hand the island’s maritime traditions in Klima, a fishing village near Adamas, where colorful boathouses line the shore. As for art and history, Milos is the discovery site of the Venus de Milo statue, the world-famous statue of the Greek goddess of love, now housed in the Louvre.
How to get to Milos
The most popular way of traveling to Milos is by ferry, with regular connections to Athens and other islands in the Cyclades.
During the summer months, there are up to 7 daily ferries setting sail from Piraeus to Milos, with the trip lasting 2.5 to 7 hours, depending on the type of vessel serving the route.
The colorful, scenic village of Klima in Milos
Folegandros: romantic and untouched
If you dream of spending your vacation on an island similar to Santorini but untouched by mass tourism, Folegandros is the romantic destination you've been seeking. With dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and traditional whitewashed settlements, this small Cycladic gem is a favorite among couples and travelers looking for a peaceful getaway.
The heart of the island is Chora, an impressive hilltop village with stunning sea views, charming squares, and narrow cobbled alleys. Stroll through its car-free streets, dine in a taverna under a plane tree, and enjoy a melting sunset.
For adventure enthusiasts, the island’s rugged landscape offers an amazing network of hiking trails, leading to lovely beaches, such as Agali and Katergo. And don’t miss a visit to the Church of Panagia and the Castle of Folegandros to soak in the most breathtaking views.
How to get to Folegandros
You can catch a ferry to Folegandros from Piraeus in Athens, with the trip taking less than 4 hours by high-speed ferry. There are normally 1-2 daily crossings.
The island is also well connected to Santorini, Milos, and other nearby Cyclades islands, making it a great starting point for island hopping.
Magical sea views from the hilltop Chora of Folegandros
Amorgos: the island of the deep blue
Amorgos is the perfect pick for adventurers, nature lovers, and travelers who wish to get a taste of authentic Greek island life. Famous for its rugged landscape, fascinating local festivals, and deep blue waters that inspired the film The Big Blue, Amorgos is an oasis of tranquility and invigoration.
The most iconic landmark of the island is the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, one of the most spectacular sights in Greece. Its balcony provides breathtaking views of the island's wild beauty and the Aegean Sea.
With wonderful sandy coves and pebbly shores, Amorgos also boasts some of the clearest waters in the Cyclades. Its beaches, such as Agia Anna and Mouros, offer pristine swimming spots and a majestic seabed for snorkeling. For hikers, the island’s numerous trails connect traditional villages, secluded bays and ancient ruins, providing an unforgettable way to explore its beauty.
How to get to Amorgos
You can catch a ferry to Amorgos from Piraeus, with 1-3 daily crossings available in the summer months. The journey normally takes 6-7 hours.
If you want to add Amorgos to your Greek islands itinerary, you can reach the island from Naxos, Mykonos, Paros, and more Cycladic islands.
The marvelous blue waters of Agia Anna beach
A new way to experience the Cyclades
Santorini will always be a bucket-list destination, but if you are looking for something different—be it a more relaxed atmosphere, better value for money, or a more comprehensive Greek island experience—Paros, Naxos, Milos, Folegandros, and Amorgos offer unforgettable experiences.
With multiple routes connecting Athens and other islands, ferry travel is one of the best ways to explore the Cyclades. To plan an island-hopping adventure, you can find all updated Greek islands ferry schedules for 2025, on Ferryhopper.
