The Cyclades islands are the most well known of the Greek Islands and include Santorini and Mykonos which are the two most popular islands in Greece.

Santorini
Visually spectacular. Should be approached by sea to get the full effect of sailing into a giant crater so don't fly there and arrive before dark. Thira is touristy, Oia is a little quieter but the island is the most popular in Greece and for good reason. The daytime action is at the beaches, Perissa and Kamari. Good Raki and domatokeftedes (fried tomato-balls) are culinary favorites. Ruins of Ancient Thira are worth the trip if you are unimpressed by the most spectacular sunsets on this planet. Most people want to stay in the beautiful hotels overlooking the caldera but if you have children you will sleep a lot easier a few meters inland rather then on the edge of a 1000 foot cliff.

Milos
Like Santorini, a volcanic island with spectacular rock formations and hot springs. Bikes or car useful if not essential. This is a beautiful island with fantastic beaches like Paliochori, Hivadolimni and the tiny cove of Sarakiniko, one of the most interesting places to swim on earth. The village of Pollonia has great swimming, restaurants and you can take a boat to the island of Kimilos. The main village of Plaka is made up of the cubic white houses which the Cyclades are known for. The island is rich with archeological sites including Christian catacombs, a roman ampitheatre, venetian castles and museums. Those of you who took art history should recall that the famous Venus de Milo was found here. Daily boats to and from Pireaus connect the island to Sifnos, Serifos and Kythnos. It's about a 7 hour trip to Pireaus. There are also 3 boats a week to Ag. Nikolaos in Crete and one or two a week to Folegandros, Sikinos, Ios and Santorini. Daily highspeeds in the summer take about 3 hours.
Acknowledgement Matt Barrett
greecetravel.com

Photos by Manolis Kellis