Whether you’re planning your first ever go-it-alone adventure, or you’re a seasoned solo traveller, Greece’s Cyclades are perfectly suited for anyone flying solo. With hundreds of islands and islets to explore, it’s impossible to see the entire archipelago in one trip — but the local ferries make it easy to hop between a handful over the course of a couple of weeks.
Why see the Cyclades solo?
The beauty of the Greek islands is that each one has its own customs, cuisine and character, whether you are seeking caldera sunsets in Santorini, otherworldly landscapes in Milos or archaeological sightseeing on the UNESCO world heritage site of Delos. You can be transported from the nightlife of Mykonos to the churches of Tinos in just a half hour journey.
The ease of travelling between islands takes the stress out of solo travel, allowing you to focus on the beauty of your surroundings — and the safe, friendly and welcoming atmosphere you will find across each isle. From taxi drivers teaching you Greek basics to hoteliers making you feel like part of the family and restaurateurs tempting you to try the local specialities, the Greeks go out of their way to welcome visitors, especially those who are travelling alone. Strike up conversations with the people sitting beside you at the beach or running an interesting shop you stumble upon, and you will hear stories and enjoy experiences you would have missed if you’d been travelling with a companion. It’s impossible to feel lonely when so many people want to chat.
The beauty of solo travel is the freedom to spend your time doing whatever you wish, without having to compromise with travel companions. In Greece, that could be whiling away hours on the beach with a good book, indulging in long meals of local cuisine in traditional tavernas, exploring ancient ruins and monuments, or spending hours swimming in turquoise seas. You don’t need a travel companion to bathe in your own private plunge pool, sip a cocktail at the water’s edge or admire the architecture while strolling through the streets of a town.
Which islands to visit — plus where to stay?
Santorini
Set the tone for a luxury solo adventure by watching the iconic sunset over Santorini’s caldera from the comfort of your private plunge pool at Canaves Oia Suites. Bedrooms are carved into the rocks, providing a memorable experience bubbled up by champagne breakfasts, in-room massages and even exploring the coastline on the hotel’s yacht.
Milos
Hop over to Milos (the longest of your journeys, aboard a relaxing five-hour ferry) where you can split your time between your suite’s private infinity pool at Domes White Coast and exploring the nearby lunar coastlines. Don’t miss Sarakiniko Beach, known for its otherworldly white cliffs and aquamarine waters.
Naxos
Next on your journey, travel to Naxos to unwind on its white sandy beaches. Wine lovers are best placed at Naxian Collection, where you can mingle with other guests while sipping from the family’s very own vineyard in the cosy wine cellar. Choose to tour Naxos town, try your hand at traditional watermill baking, or simply relax with your book beside the pool.
Mykonos
Take things slow on Mykonos, indulging in the luxury of private plunge pools and lounging in hammocks at Nomad. Spend your days sipping cocktails at Kalo Livadi beach, before an afternoon massage and soak in your gigantic bathtub back at the hotel.
Syros
Finish your solo tour of the Cyclades at Aristide Hotel on Syros, where owner Oana and her team will make you feel like part of the family. Admire the art that adorns the hotel walls, stroll around the neoclassical town of Hermoupolis, bathe from the swimming platforms searching for octopus in the crystal-clear water, and ensure your stay coincides with one of the hotel’s ten-course banquets in the grounds of an old mansion.
Latest stories
How to spend a slow weekend at Nomad Mykonos
Known for its bustling beach bars and affluent nightclubs, Mykonos also has a slower side to its Cycladic shores, found in luxurious yet minimal boutique hotels such as Nomad, tucked away on the south-east of the island. This is the ideal base for anyone seeking a calming retreat, whether you’re
This refashioned farmhouse hideaway embodies Tuscany’s timeless beauty
Overflowing with rustic charm and evergreen allure, guests of Lupaia inevitably fall head over heels for every cossetting corner of this Tuscan countryside escape. Pair homely comforts with five-star service, and an ever-changing bill of fare rooted in the region’s organic offerings, and you’re sure to keep coming back to
Where to stay in May: 8 boutique hotels to book now
Sitting perfectly on the cusp of summer, just before European beaches begin to fill to the brim, May is one of our favourite months to travel. City breaks are sunny but not unbearably hot, the countryside is in full bloom, and even further flung, tropical climes are balmy, breezy, and
The best sea view hotel rooms in Italy
Summer holidays in Italy are best spent as close to il mare as possible — preferably al fresco all day long. Waking up to shimmering sea views and being lulled to sleep by lapping waves sets a relaxed pace at these seafront boutique hotels, where the most difficult decision you’ll
