We get it — pretty much everyone has Mykonos and Santorini on their mind, and on their bucket list, when they think about Greece.
These two popular islands have done a fabulous job of capturing the hearts and minds of American travelers. But it’s starting to have some unintended repercussions in terms of crowds, prices, and overall experience.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]
When we were in Santorini last April (before the tourist season had even really kicked off) the crowds in Oia, and the lines for the cable car, were already unpleasant. Flash forward to July/August, and add in a couple of giant cruise ships making a port call for the day, and it would have been a madhouse.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]
With that in mind, we have some suggestions for ways to experience Greece in a more low-key, less-stressful way:
Focus on the Peloponnese Peninsula
Athens itself merits more than the quick one- or two-night stay that most Americans give it. With a longer stay, you can use Athens as a home base for day trips to places like Meteora, Delphi, and the Corinth Canal.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]
And then you can discover some of the other hidden gems of the Peloponnese, and spend a few nights in a romantic seaside town like Nafplio or Monemvasia.
[Photo Credit: Mike, view from Nafplio via Shared Adventures]
Choose More Under-the Radar Islands
If you want to stick to a traditional “Athens and the Islands” itinerary, you don’t have to use Mykonos and Santorini. Choose smaller, quieter islands like Naxos, Paros, or Milos for a taste of authentic Greek culture and natural beauty. Or combine Athens with a longer stay on just one island – perhaps a larger island like Crete, which offers a wide variety of experiences in one place.
[Photo Credit: Alicia & Jay via Shared Adventures – read about their family vacation to Greece Here]
Set Sail in a Smaller Yacht
Cruising the Greek islands is a magical experience, but it can be even more magical if you stay away from the big cruise ships that can only visit the bigger/busier islands.
Join a small-group sailing adventure hosted by a tour company, if you want to make some new friends along the way. Or charter a private yacht for just you and your travel companions, and you can explore (at your own pace) smaller islands with secluded beaches and laid-back beachfront restaurants.
[Photo Credit: Mary via Shared Adventures]
Rent a Private Villa
For the ultimate avoid-the-crowds hack, why not rent a private villa with its own pool, a chef to prepare local cuisine, and onsite contacts who can arrange drivers, tours/experiences, restaurant reservations, and more. Depending on the specific location, and the number of people you’re traveling with, this option might not be as pricey as you think. And you can’t beat the experience!
[Photo Credit: Rafael via Unsplash]
Regardless of how you structure your Greek adventure, it is still a place that should be on everyone’s list. Let us help you make the smartest choices and design the most customized itinerary so that you get the most out of the experience!
