A stone's throw from the capital of Athens but still soaked in that Cyclades flavor, Kea is a lesser-known gem that other islands but makes for a great hangout for charter guests wanting to experience a local secret. Kea has been around since the bronze age which means it has a long history and a lot of archeological sites and ancient ruins to suit. One of the must-see ancient sites on Kea is the stone-carved lion which dates back to 600 BC. Get into the rhythm of life on Kea at the port of Korissia, where the pebbled beach comes flanked with colorful homes in shades of burnt orange against the blue sea. Hike the trail of the ancient cities that crosses over 40km and leads you through landscapes that were once home to cities of old. With a tender on hand, you can also explore the nooks and coves tucked into he coastal crannies of Kea.
As one of the smallest islands in the Cyclades chain, you get all the best parts crammed into one charming corner when it comes to Syros. Pastel shades, blooming bougainvillea, and crystal clear waters set the scene for a pretty port of call that is quite cosmopolitan. Charter guests can explore Ermoupoli - known as the queen of the cycles, this bustling town is all architectural grace and gleaming marble. Above the town, the Agios Georgios Cathedral is well worth the walk to see the 13th-century citadel complete with sweeping views. Beach lovers will find their bliss in Galissas where a sheltered cove makes swimming without a ripple a summer dream.
Mykonos is one of the most luxurious Greek islands, with countless resorts and many great restaurants and bars. Mykonos is famous for the glamour of its nightlife, the island's main attraction after its plethora of beautiful beaches. Anchor off "Little Venice," the charming seaside neighborhood with its row of waterfront cafes overlooking the sea, and stop at the Folklore Museum and the Archeological Museum. Shop by day or enjoy a sunset cocktail in one of the glamorous Mykonos bars.
Celebrated as being the largest island in the sweet Cyclades, Naxos has the charm of being a little off-center of the tourist trail when compared to the likes of Santorini or Mykonos. But Naxos makes for an amazing anchorage with its atmospheric old town made up of minotaur maze-like streets lined with chic cafes and dreamy bohemian shops. Active charter guests can take the seven villages trail - hiking past donkeys and wildflowers and all the things that make you want to wax lyrical about the Greek countryside. There’s also the chance for wine tasting at local distilleries, admiring ancient temples, stacking up on history at the archeological museum, and blissing out on golden beaches.
The small, windswept island of Delos is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is also known as Apollo's birthplace and is a must-stop on any Cyclades charter. Home to only a handful of residents, this sacred island is one of Greece's most important mythological, archeological, and historical sites. Delos is famed for many things and was the epicenter of the Delian Festival for a thousand years. Be sure to see the sacred Temple of Apollo and the highly photogenic Terrace of the Lions. This sacred and historic island is blessed with shrines and impressive remains of its glory days.
Serifos Island boasts typical Cycladic architecture is dotted with little whitewashed houses and churches that contrast with the wild natural landscape of the island. This off-the-beaten-track island is ideal for relaxing holidays as it has not been affected by overdevelopment. The capital, Serifos Chora, is undoubtedly one of the Cyclades' most beautiful capitals! Travelers fill the paved narrow alleys of Chora to stroll and have a drink at the island's bars after spending their day on the idyllic Serifos beaches.
Named after a mythical king, it's no wonder that Kynthos feels like a fairy tale. With its rolling golden hills, charming stone huts, and absolute serenity, you couldn’t wish for a better escape in the Cyclades. The port of Merichas welcomes you in with its relaxing buzz and bright waterside cafes. Visit villages and caves and wander the colorful close-knit streets of Hora with their painted walls, local frescoes, and windmills. On the northern side, charter guests can seek steaming hot springs in Loutra, and with more than a hundred beaches to choose from, when it comes to sun and sand, you will be spoilt for choice.
Close to Athens and representing the golden age, Sounion is home to the impressive Temple of Poseidon. Built in 440 BC, this is one of the most important and well-preserved monuments from Ancient Greece. Standing high on the cliff, this temple was more than a homage to the god of the sea; it also served as a calling card for sailors returning home. Visiting at sunset turns everything to gold and lends impressive views across the Saronic Gulf. Poetry lovers can even see the graffiti of Lord Byron, who had scratched his name on one of the temple pillars.
Athens is all beauty and grit, history and the here and now - an eclectic combo that makes for a fascinating city stay. Under the shadow of the imposing Acropolis, Athens takes its place in the history books seriously. Home to temples and tales, the capital has been around since the 5th century, and unraveling its onion-like skin serves up ancient mythology, byzantine delights, ottoman edges, and an urban modern appeal that gives it its modern buzz. The Acropolis is a must for charter guests wanting to marvel at one of the best examples of Greek antiquity. Art lovers can swoon at the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and antique hunters will get their fill at the ancient neighborhood of Monastiraki with its rooftop bars and sprawling market scenes.