Paxos

TRAVEL GUIDE PAXOI

Paxos is a unique Greek island located in the Ionian sea, for everyone who loves a bit of beach life and translucent blue crustal waters. The east coast is home to a number of quite and pebbly bays with easy access, family-friendly coves, while the much more aggressive west area offers dramatic and steep cliffs and more off-the-beaten-track beaches which require quite long walks and hike to reach them.

Paxoi

However the best way to explore the coastline of Paxoi or Paxos is to hire a boat and sail around the island at your own pace. Due to its rich coastline Paxoi offer to its visitors multiple jaw rapping bays and coves accessible only by boat, that is the main reason why to hirea boat at paxos is #1 choice for the majority of the travelers every year. We will address below the beaches that are accessible easily by boat and are highly recommended for morning swim stops or even evenings spent at anchor away from the crowds.

Gaios

Galazio ( the Greek word for light blue)
Where: on the west side, just opposite the island from Gaios.
Description: a small pebbly beach shaped out of the cliffs of the west side. The color of the water is specifically breathtaking.
You can join our Ionian Cruise from Corfu and we include a swim stop there, while enjoying freshly cooked lunch on board and playing with our water toys on board, kayak, SUP, snorkeling or fishing.

Avlaki

Where: on the west side as well, a little north of Galazio beach.
Description: a cove that includes the long rocky inlet and reef of Agrilas. At one side there is a cozy pebble bay but the majority of the people go for the great blue waters and of course the scuba diving activity offered.
You can join our Ionian Cruise from Corfu and we include a swim stop there, while playing with our water toys on board, kayak, SUP, snorkeling or fishing.

Meanwhile apart from Paxoi ( or Paxos) , on neighboring Antipaxos…

A 30-minute sail on the southern part from Paxos will take you to the paradisiacal beaches of Antipaxos. Antipaxos has multiple beaches that worth anchoring your boat and feel the summer breeze, but 2 of them are by far the most popular ones for the boat lovers. Vrika and Voutoumi, two amazing stretches of sand lapped by turquoise waters of a pure electric blue ( galazio). Both secluded bays have lined-up tavernas serving fresh fish and a couple of hours spent on one or both of them is time well spent indeed!
During our Ionain Cruise we include a half day cruising around these 2 breathtaking beaches and our quests will have the opportunity to swim on both of them.

To sum up, it goes without saying that to hire a boat at Paxoi is one of the best ways to get to know the island and our Ionian Cruise will offer you that experience including the best out of Paxoi and Antipaxoi as well.

For private charter request check your gulet fleet or email us : charter@sail-ingreece.com

Kefalonia

EXPLORE KEFALONIA BY BOAT

This green large scale island with its jaw-dropping bays and crystal blue waters will take your breath away. Kefalonia a hidden diamond in the Ionian Sea. It offers a rich history in European cultural tradition. It’s the largest Ionian Island and the green of its hills mix with the turquoise of the water making it genuinely unique and a popular destination. Pine, cypress and olive trees spread over Mt. Ainos’ mountain, whereas at its foot you’ll find vineyards where the renowned Kefalonia Robola wine variety is produced.

But why the best to explore Kefalonia is to hire a boat?

But What Kefalonia has to offer?

Exploring Kefalonia by boat is the most seductive way to visit the hidden bays, caves and beautiful coastline of the island. Sailing across the blue waters and at the same time watching out for dolphins can be the highlight of your holidays in Kefalonia. There are numerous little bays and coves along the coastline, many of them accessible only by boat, which makes Kefalonia boat trips a must if you are interested to explore her.

In the north of Kefalonia, between Aghia Efimia village and the world famous Fiskardo, there are many secluded bays with sandy beaches, which you usually have to yourself when you swim stop for sunbathing, snorkelling and swimming. On of them, the famous Antisamos bay is where the holly wood movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed and it is included on our 8 day Zante cruise, where our cruise has a swim stop and a lunch break before heading to Fiskardo.

In addition to, with some luck, you can find while cruising one of the rare monk seals in the northern side of Kefalonia as the variety of sea caves are a shelter to them. Should you find one, stare them only from far away and do not get close to them. However, they are a rare opportunity while cruising and it is highly likely to spot some dolphins during cruise. If you wish to hire a boat in Kefalonia as private just for your group and explore the coastline around, you can always check our private gulet fleet ( Browse Here) or email us : charter@sail-ingreece.com

Furthermore, the sugar-white sandy beaches are mainly located in the southern part of Kefalonia. There are infinite secluded beaches after the coastline from Skala and Katelios up to Lourdas and Argostoli, most of them accessible only by boat. You can find peaceful and secluded coves as well as long lines of sandy and wind protected beaches. In the western part of Lixouri cape, you can hire a boat from Vatsa and Zola and explore this paradisal coastline with your private boat.

On many beaches you can find comfy sunbeds and umbrellas to rent; there are also buzzy beach bars, restaurants and water sports for all ages. However, if you prefer a private cove or a quiet beach, you will easily find one if you hire a boat to Kefalonia.

It is also likely to spot one of the strictly protected Loggerhead turtles Caretta Caretta. You will come across them rather in the south of Kefalonia, opposite from Zakynthos as they often visit the sandy beaches in the south for nesting. During our Zante cruise we sail around the southern part of Kefalonia and offer swim stops to our guests on the same beaches that turtles visit for their nesting and it is quite common our guests to spot them.

Zante

Travel Guide Zante

Find out everything about your holidays in Zakynthos (or Zante) on our travel guide! Discover fantastic beaches, top destinations, as well as a wide variety of amazing photos

Navagio (Shipwreck)

Sweet Home to the worldwide renowned Navagio (Shipwreck) beach and glorified by infinite travel guides, Zante island is one of the most popular Greek islands in the Ionian sea and only! Jaw dropping destinations, breathtaking bays with sugar-fine sand and crystal clear waters together insane party life are the main reasons why Zakynthos is so popular worldwide among all ages.

Zante Cruise

But, why zakynthos boat rental is the best way to explore her?

First of all, The beach of Navagio or Shipwreck as it is also knows, is the most popular beach of Zakynthos located on the westside of the island, adjacent to Anafotiria village. The Shipwreck is if not THE definitely one of the most photographed sights in Greece. It is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Navagio beach is accessible only by boat and while there are numerous day cruises that reach there, usually tourists are packed like sheep in metallic boats that are packed. Apart from lacking in comfort and space you have limited time while at Navagio, as the day cruises are always on a tight schedule. The best way to visit shipwreck is to hire a boat and sail there at your own pace and comfort.
You can join as well our 7 day Zante Cruise that depart from May till October every Saturday and you will visit shipwreck from your private deck in style!

Ionian Islands

Furthermore, Zakynthos has plenty of other beautiful islands near by that an island hopping experience will be a must do experience in this part of the world. Greek ionian islands such as Ithaca, Kefalonia, Kastos and Kalamos, can be easily accessed by boat and a Zakynthos cruise sounds like the ideal holiday plan. With ferries that connect these islands being in scarcity even during peak season, the flexibility and comfort that a private boat offers anyways and the infinite secluded bays, inhabitant tiny islands and other hidden gems reached only be sea, makes Zakynthos boat cruise the only easy way to visit the Southern Ionian islands effective and efficient.

During our Zante cruise you will have 7 full days to cruise around Zante and the adjacent ionian islands, such as Kefalonia, Ithaca, Lefkada, Meganissi, Kasto, Kalamos. If you are a group of friends you can always hire a boat as private. Please check our fleet or email us : charter@sail-ingreece.com

It goes without say that a zakynthos cruise is the best way to visit the island and the Southern ionian islands. Whether you travel solo, as a couple, family or large group of friends avoid the crowds and set sail around Zakynthos!

Santorini

Travel Guide Santorini

Bored of reading lengthy travel guides and never reach the end? Read our short and to the point “travel guide” of Santorini and smash your time! Santorini is one of the most popular Geek islands which is natural beauty is second to none. Here we will point out the 10 MUST things to see in Santorini.

Thira

Thira is the main town of the island where all the action is. Walk around the slated allies, take glances from the cliff edges and get inspired from the island’s unique atmosphere. Tip of the day: Drink your coffee in one of the cafes which are located on Thira’s cliffs.

Explore Oia

Oia is the northern city of the island worldwide famous as the best point to watch the sunset. In the summer thousands of tourists grab their drinks and sit waiting for the sun to set. There is a connected “path” between Oia and Thira ideal for hiking.

Volcano and Hot Springs

Opposite from Santorini you can find the Volcano (known and as “kameni”) from where all started. Due to volcano eruption that happened many years ago Santorini has red and black stones everywhere. Next to the volcano the hot springs can be found.

Santo winery

Santorini produces famous wines due to the quality of their local grapes. Take a tour at the Santo winery, be privileged to sample the different varieties and buy your own bottle as a souvenir. Don’t overdo it as the Santo wines are “sneaky strong”.

Red beach

Red beach is the most popular and natural pretty beach of Santorini. The beach is located some steps away from the ancient site of Akrotiri. Due to its small size the beach creates a crowded atmosphere and many days visitors prefer not to make it all the way down to the beach and instead marvel this unique scenery of red and black volcanic rocks from the top.

Black beach

Amongst Santorini’s most “wanted” beaches, especially among young travelers, are Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios, which sprawl one after another to create the longest black sandy beach on the island; busy beach bars, diving and water sport centres and beautiful-people-watching! Could you ask for more?

Thirassia

Thirassia is part of Santorini’s complex and is opposite from the majestic Oia. Thirassia is a part of a bigger island but got sunk and its local residence is known for their hospitality. The natural landscape and its untouchable architectural heritage attract the travelers’ eyes. Traditional fish taverns challenge visitors to appreciate the Greek local homemade cuisine.

Visit Ancient Akrotiri

Ancient Akrotiri is a fascinating and important archaeological site, which provides a rare glimpse into urban life in the Minoan period. Named the “Minoan Pompeii,” the flourishing town was at once destroyed and preserved by a volcanic eruption. Today it has been partially excavated and is protected from the sun inside a large shed.

Visit Donkey Brewery

Let’s be honest. When you hear Mykonos, you imagine endless clubbing, drinks everywhere and wild night life. Amazing bars can be found in the town, such as Scandinavian bar, Caprice and in the outskirts the world famous clubs such as Cavo Paradiso, Paradise club and many others. Most of the beaches also host very vivid and lively beach bars where you can find people drinking and dancing from early in the morning.

View from Profitis Ilias Chapel

Profitis Ilias Chapel is one of the highest points of the island and the view is breathtaking. If you prefer to admire Santorini’s sunset in a more private way overlooking the vertical cliffs of the island Profitis Ilias is the place for you. Do not spread the secret if you want to maintain the peace and quietness of the spot!

Mykonos

Travel Guide Mykonos

Bored of reading lengthy travel guides and never reach the end? Read our short and to the point “travel guide” of Mykonos and smash your time! Mykonos is one of the worldwide famous party islands which nightlife is second to none. Here we will point out the 10 MUST things to see in Mykonos.

Little Venice

Little Venice is arguably the part of Mykonos that has been photographed and seen on postcards more than any other. This cozy area is full of elegant and traditional old houses that are located precariously on the edge of the sea. Quite amazing are the sunset views from Little Venice. Its whitewashed houses against the scenery of the azure blue Aegean Sea is just amazing.

Delos

Delos, the UNESCO protected island, where history is still alive, is opposite from Mykonos. If you like to “have an appointment” with Greek history Delos is a place you should not miss. The island where the Greek god Apolon was born, will share us with captures of monuments that create a feeling of living in the past.

Paradise Beach

Paradise beach is the most popular beach on the island where thousands of young travelers relax on the beach and enjoy the white sandy with azure blue waters beach. Refreshing cocktails, tasty snacks, live music and even dancing lessons are the day to day activities. Did you just find your Paradise?

Petros The Pelican

This lovely creature who welcomes you when you arrive at port of Mykonos is so famous that has even a name, Petros! Take the best selfie with the mascot of the island, coddle and feed him and he will count you as a friend!

Chora town

Mykonos town is the point where cosmopolitan life takes place in the island. Walk around the white washed houses, enjoy your coffee in the little cute shops, get lost in the narrow allies and have your eyes open as worldwide celebrities can be around! At night the town hosts some of the most famous clubs of the island, where alcohol connects the people!

The Windmills

The windmills of Mykonos are the landmark of the island. Located next to the old town, close to the little Venice, they have been used in the past for processing grain, nowadays they remain as a tourist attraction.

Horse Riding

Riding a horse is a fun activity on its own, but riding a horse in Mykonos it is a unique experience! It is a little bit pricy, but worth the try. Riding on the sea, crossing breathtaking landscapes and being the “cowboy of Mykonos” is an unforgettable experience.

Super Paradise Beach

The change of Guards takes place at Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) every hour. The guards dressed up with Greek traditional costumes and stand still in front of the statue of the “unknown soldier”. If you are lucky every Sunday at 11 a.m. they make a special parade where the guards marching. Don’t leave the city without a selfie with the guard. He cannot move!

Bars, clubs, nightlife

Let’s be honest. When you hear Mykonos, you imagine endless clubbing, drinks everywhere and wild night life. Amazing bars can be found in the town, such as Scandinavian bar, Caprice and in the outskirts the world famous clubs such as Cavo Paradiso, Paradise club and many others. Most of the beaches also host very vivid and lively beach bars where you can find people drinking and dancing from early in the morning.

Aegean Maritime Museum

When you think of Mykonos for definite you do not think of museums and history, but this one is quite cozy. In a little room you will find the Maritime Museum simple but fascinating. An old lady who speaks only Greek will try in any way to explain you all the things inside… Fortunately there are signs with English translation!

Athens

Travel Guide Athens

Bored of reading lengthy travel guides and never reach the end? Read our short and to the point “travel guide” of Athens and smash your time! Athens is one of the most historical cities but with a vivid night life. Here we will point out the 10 MUST things to visit in Athens.

The Acropolis

Acropolis is the emblematic archeological sight of Athens. This MUST see “holy mountain” has its origins from the Greek words “ACRO” which means edge and “POLIS” that means town. Acropolis is the rock surrounded by fences built by the ancient Greeks for protection from intrusions, where you can find The Parthenon, The Caryatides and The Herodion Theatre.

Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus hill the sister mountain of Athens that tries to steal the glory of the famous Acropolis is located just opposite and has a cozy chapel on the top. The best place to take selfie and watch the sunset from the top.

The Acropolis museum

The museum of Acropolis, located below of the actual Acropolis open its gates to the public on 2009. The museum has been awarded and recognized worldwide and attracts the attention of the traveler no matter if he is a history seeker or not. The glass surfaces, the interior design and the exhibits create a unique experience. Don’t miss to do your pit stop at the roof top cafe. Drink your coffee like the ancient Greeks did.

The old Olympic stadium

The old Olympic Stadium known as “Kallimarmaro” is the stadium that the first Olympic Games took place at 1896. The stadium is full of marble (“marmaro” is the Greek word of marble) and is located behind the Syntagma square. You can easily observe it from outside without paying any entrance fee.

Gazi area

Gazi area is the vivid nightlife spot of Athens full of bars, clubs and cafes. You can find all kind of music such as mainstream, house, hip-hop and Greeks and foreigners blend in. It is an area that never sleeps and if you want you can party till dawn!

Monastiraki flea market

Monastiraki area is the new upcoming area of Athens where the square attracts street artists and group of friends hang around. The flea market is near the square where you can find shops and street vendors selling from shoes till Greek antiques. Every Sunday the flea market gets bigger as more street vendor join. Bargain as much as you can!

Hadrian’s arch

The Arch of Hadrian “Apsida tou Adrianou” most commonly known in Greek as Hadrian’s Gate is a monumental gateway resembling – in some respects – a Roman triumphal arch. You can find it in Athens downtown close to the Old Olympic Stadium.

Change of the guards

The change of Guards takes place at Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) every hour. The guards dressed up with Greek traditional costumes and stand still in front of the statue of the “unknown soldier”. If you are lucky every Sunday at 11 a.m. they make a special parade where the guards marching. Don’t leave the city without a selfie with the guard. He cannot move!

Anafiotika

Anafiotika is the oldest and picturesque part of Plaka area. Anafiotika located just below Acropolis and maintain alive the old image of Athens. White sugar-cubed houses, narrow pedestrian allies and cozy shops mix up together creating a magical feeling.

Meet our GYROS!

Greeks love it. Tourists love it. The whole world loves it. You are at the place that GYROS has been born and you MUST taste the original one. Greeks called it SOUVLAKI and you can try with different meat inside.

Ultra Luxury Ships

◦ our fleet ◦ en-suite fleet ◦ ultra luxury ◦ our fleet ◦ en-suite fleet ◦ ultra luxury ◦

M/S

VIRTUOSO

Our Ultra Luxury Ships are, as the name suggests, a cut above in terms of space, luxury and comfort. Each cabin has a shower and wc, as well as air-conditioning

Taking an average of 12 guests, our Ultra Luxury Ships offer more space, are newer in design than the Ensuite Ships and are the very best in terms of style and comfort.

All the cabins are based on twin share and are mostly twin beds, although there are some double bed cabins available as well. In some cabins twin beds can be pushed together to form a double bed. The cabins are approximately 16-18 m² in size (including the ensuite), larger than the cabins of the Luxury ships. All bed linen and towels are provided. We recommend that you bring your own beach towels for use on the decks and beaches. Cabins are either Lower Deck (in the hull of the ship), usually with a porthole, or above deck (on or above the main deck).

The dining salon is very large, and also provides a fully stocked and licensed bar. The meals served are of a high standard, with a continental breakfast in the mornings and a 3 course meal at lunchtimes. A typical menu includes pasta/salad starter and a meat or fish-based main course with salad or vegetable dishes. The sundeck areas are much more spacious than our Ensuite boats and are great spots to relax in a deck chair and soak up the amazing scenery or soak in the sun. If you’re not a confident swimmer, all the boats have small tenders (dinghies) which the crew use to ferry people into the bays if you want to sit on the beaches rather than swim off the boat.

We have been working with our captains and families for many seasons now and as such, we are the largest operator in this market. If you are looking for a high level of luxury and spacious accommodation onboard some of the best boats in the Aegean, then the Premier Plus ships are for you. At Sail in Greece, we are proud to include Ultra Luxury ships in our fleet and feel that they offer a luxurious and comfortable cruise experience. See you on Board! The Sail in Greece Team

Corfu Gulet Charter & Corfu Gulet Cruises

Corfu island is one of the seven islands located in the western side of Greece between Italy called Ionian islands and has been by far the most popular one regarding tourism. Due to its venetian picturesque town, the breathtaking coastline, the serine hidden coves and natural environment makes Corfu ideal destination for gulet charter and Corfu gulet cruises. If you are looking to charter a Corfu gulet we highly recommend you go ahead and experience that week on board, which without a doubt will be a unique lifetime experience.

Corfu Gulet itinerary

There are multiple different itineraries and route we can operate with a Corfu gulet, but for the shame of this article we will mention the two above. If your group needs any further clarifications, or wish to discuss possible alterations, it would be our pleasure to do so, email : charter@sail-ingreece.com

Short Corfu Gulet route

When we say short Corfu gulet route, we mean that your week will be with a maximum of 2/3 hours per day cruising, which will give ytou much more time to spend on the beach or exploring the traditional villages on the way.

Day 1: Corfu – Kassipi
Day 2: Kassiopi to Sivota ( Blue Lagoon)
Day 3: Sivota to Parga
Day 4: Parga to Antipaxos
Day 5: Antipaxos to Paxos ( Gaios)
Day 6: Gaios to Lakka ( Paxoi)
Day 7: Lakka to Corfu
Day 8: Disembarkation

Long Corfu Gulet route

The long Corfu gulet itinerary means you will be spending around 4/5 hours per day cruising. That means you will have less time swimming and relaxing, but you will be able to visit more destinations in one week. Usually this route is more expensive as well, due to the higher capacity of fuel consumed.

Day 1: Corfu
Day 2: Meganissi – Skorpios
Day 3: Atokos – Ithaca
Day 4: Cephalonia
Day 5: Lefkada | Gerakas
Day 6:Antipaxos | Paxos
Day 7: Corfu
Day 8: Disembarkation

NO matter which Corfu gulet cruise you select, we can warrantee you that it will be the best week of your life. Our Sail in Greece team will design with you all details for your gulet cruise, from the meals that will be served on board, to the handpicked island excursions that you can join while on the local destinations, or the airport transfers you might need before or after your flight. You will have for the entire week a dedicated Corfu gulet buddy with you all the time.

Corfu gulet cruise on cabin charter

Sail in Greece, the largest gulet fleet operator in Greece, is the only operator that operates weekly Corfu gulet cruises with warranted departures. We start our Corfu gulet cruises from May and finish in October. We have international guests from all over the world, such as English ( www.sail-ingreece.co.uk), Italians ( www.sail-ingreece.it), French ( www.sail-ingreece.fr), Germans ( www.sail-ingreece.de), Spanish ( www.sail-ingreece.es), South Africans, Australians, Americans, Canadians to name just a few. Hence, if you are travelling solo or couple or a small group of friends and are not able to charter a Corfu gulet the best option for you is to join our 8 day Ionian Cruise from Corfu. We operate Corfu cruises with five Corfu gulets depending on seasonality and week. You can browse all of our Corfu gulet fleet here

For any further information you can call us : +302112152595 ( GR) or +442032399253 ( UK) or email us: info@sail-ingreece.com

We wish you a great Corfu Gulet experience!

Mykonos vs. Santorini: Which Island is Right for You?

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, then you’re likely in the process of researching different islands. And with more than 200 inhabited islands to choose from, knowing which one to select can be difficult. For many, it comes down to Mykonos or Santorini.

Get to Know Mykonos

Located in the southern portion of the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is one of the more famous and acclaimed Greek islands belonging to the Cyclades complex. You’ll find it nestled in close proximity to a number of other smaller islands, including Paros, Tinos, Naxos, and Syros.

Mykonos is believed to be the second-most visited Greek island each year – something that’s due in large part to its vibrant dual personality. During the daytime, Mykonos is a classic Greek island with all of the iconic views and experiences that travelers and tourists have come to expect: windmills, cozy paved alleys, trendy shops, Instagram-worthy architecture, and sugar-cube houses. But when the sun goes down, the island’s wild side comes out. The nightlife in Mykonos is renowned, and the Little Venice portion of the island comes alive on warm summer evenings.

Get to Know Santorini

Santorini’s iconic crescent moon shape is easy to spot on a map of the Greek islands. And whether you’re browsing a map or swiping through international travel pictures, there’s no mistaking Santorini when you see it.

Year after year, Santorini continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its beautiful rugged cliffs, pristine white architecture, and carefully “stacked” homes overlooking the Aegean Sea, this island is a lively oasis that every world traveler will eventually want to experience firsthand.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to accurately describe Santorini. Neatly paved streets, one-of-a-kind architecture, and eclectic shops and cafes make this island a popular wedding spot and honeymoon destination. And because it’s so close to other popular Greek islands like Mykonos and Crete, it sees a steady flow of travelers from cruise ships and Greek gulets.

Which Island is Right for You

While it’s somewhat unfair to compare them, Mykonos and Santorini will forever be pitted against one another. Their proximity and popularity make them worthy “rivals” – though it’s a friendly and healthy competition.

As a traveler, you may be wondering which island is right for you? Well, it depends. Here are some factors to consider:

Best for Beaches: Mykonos

You can’t go wrong with any of the beaches on either island, but they offer totally different experiences. On Santorini, you’ll find volcanic pebbles and red sand. They’re pretty interesting and impressive, but not the kind of beach that most people think of when they imagine sticking their toes in the sand. Mykonos, on the other hand, has white sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters. Plus, you can find a beach for any style (family beaches, gay beaches, nude beaches, etc.).

With all of that being said, we give Mykonos the award for “best beaches.” We’ll put it like this: People visit beaches in both Santorini and Mykonos, but they come back for the beaches of Mykonos.

Best for Nightlife: Mykonos

As mentioned before, Mykonos has quite the nightlife scene. It has a surprising number of clubs and bars for people of every taste. It also happens to be an incredibly LGBTQ+ community that caters to people looking for a good time. (That’s not to say Santorini isn’t gay-friendly, but Mykonos is known for gay bars, gay beaches, and world-class drag shows.)

Santorini doesn’t exactly shut down at sunset, but you’ll only find a couple of bars worth visiting late at night, and there aren’t any clubs to speak of. However, if your version of “nightlife” is a bottle of wine with your significant other in a corner booth, Santorini has plenty to offer. It all depends on what you want.

Best for Attractions: Santorini

Santorini has one of the most diverse cultures of any Greek island. It’s beautiful, refined, and distinctly, well, Santorinian. You’ll find no fewer than 16 wineries on the island, amazing museums (like Akrotiri Prehistoric Site, Art Space Gallery, Ancient Thera Site, Maritime Museum, Archeological Museum, etc.), five Venetian castles, and an active volcano!

While Mykonos is known for its beaches and nightlife, you won’t find nearly the same attractions and culture. The main town of “Chora” is picturesque and has some good food, but there isn’t as much to “do” during the daytime (when compared to Santorini).

Best for Romance: Santorini

Romance can be found anywhere, but when it comes to romantic destinations, these two islands can be best described as follows:

Santorini is for couples. Amazing sunsets, incredible culinary hotspots, quaint villages, and best-in-class hotels and resorts all make for a romantic experience tailored to couples.

Mykonos is for singles. Party-friendly beaches, all-night clubs, and plenty of LGBTQ+ bars make Mykonos an amazing place for singles to hang out, mingle, and enjoy new experiences.

There are obviously exceptions to this – and it doesn’t mean that singles can’t visit Santorini or couples can’t have a great time in Mykonos – but you get the idea. One is more upbeat and carefree, while the other is laid back and luxurious. You’ll have to decide which version of romance you’re looking for.

Book Your Greek Gulet Holiday

If you can’t tell by now, both Mykonos and Santorini have so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymooner, or large family, these two Greek islands have so much to offer. And the best way to see them is by scheduling a Greek gulet holiday.

Sail in Greece is proud to be the largest gulet fleet owner in Greece. We own 9 luxury gulets and have the ability to arrange private excursions at the best rates on the market for all ages and group sizes.

Whether you want to visit Mykonos, Santorini, and/or every island in between, we can make it happen. Simply click here for our private gulet charter prices or contact us today to learn more!

Mykonos vs. Santorini: Which Island is Right for You?

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, then you’re likely in the process of researching different islands. And with more than 200 inhabited islands to choose from, knowing which one to select can be difficult. For many, it comes down to Mykonos or Santorini.

Get to Know Mykonos

Located in the southern portion of the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is one of the more famous and acclaimed Greek islands belonging to the Cyclades complex. You’ll find it nestled in close proximity to a number of other smaller islands, including Paros, Tinos, Naxos, and Syros.

Mykonos is believed to be the second-most visited Greek island each year – something that’s due in large part to its vibrant dual personality. During the daytime, Mykonos is a classic Greek island with all of the iconic views and experiences that travelers and tourists have come to expect: windmills, cozy paved alleys, trendy shops, Instagram-worthy architecture, and sugar-cube houses. But when the sun goes down, the island’s wild side comes out. The nightlife in Mykonos is renowned, and the Little Venice portion of the island comes alive on warm summer evenings.

Get to Know Santorini

Santorini’s iconic crescent moon shape is easy to spot on a map of the Greek islands. And whether you’re browsing a map or swiping through international travel pictures, there’s no mistaking Santorini when you see it.

Year after year, Santorini continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its beautiful rugged cliffs, pristine white architecture, and carefully “stacked” homes overlooking the Aegean Sea, this island is a lively oasis that every world traveler will eventually want to experience firsthand.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to accurately describe Santorini. Neatly paved streets, one-of-a-kind architecture, and eclectic shops and cafes make this island a popular wedding spot and honeymoon destination. And because it’s so close to other popular Greek islands like Mykonos and Crete, it sees a steady flow of travelers from cruise ships and Greek gulets.

Which Island is Right for You

While it’s somewhat unfair to compare them, Mykonos and Santorini will forever be pitted against one another. Their proximity and popularity make them worthy “rivals” – though it’s a friendly and healthy competition.

As a traveler, you may be wondering which island is right for you? Well, it depends. Here are some factors to consider:

Best for Beaches: Mykonos

You can’t go wrong with any of the beaches on either island, but they offer totally different experiences. On Santorini, you’ll find volcanic pebbles and red sand. They’re pretty interesting and impressive, but not the kind of beach that most people think of when they imagine sticking their toes in the sand. Mykonos, on the other hand, has white sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters. Plus, you can find a beach for any style (family beaches, gay beaches, nude beaches, etc.).

With all of that being said, we give Mykonos the award for “best beaches.” We’ll put it like this: People visit beaches in both Santorini and Mykonos, but they come back for the beaches of Mykonos.

Best for Nightlife: Mykonos

As mentioned before, Mykonos has quite the nightlife scene. It has a surprising number of clubs and bars for people of every taste. It also happens to be an incredibly LGBTQ+ community that caters to people looking for a good time. (That’s not to say Santorini isn’t gay-friendly, but Mykonos is known for gay bars, gay beaches, and world-class drag shows.)

Santorini doesn’t exactly shut down at sunset, but you’ll only find a couple of bars worth visiting late at night, and there aren’t any clubs to speak of. However, if your version of “nightlife” is a bottle of wine with your significant other in a corner booth, Santorini has plenty to offer. It all depends on what you want.

Best for Attractions: Santorini

Santorini has one of the most diverse cultures of any Greek island. It’s beautiful, refined, and distinctly, well, Santorinian. You’ll find no fewer than 16 wineries on the island, amazing museums (like Akrotiri Prehistoric Site, Art Space Gallery, Ancient Thera Site, Maritime Museum, Archeological Museum, etc.), five Venetian castles, and an active volcano!

While Mykonos is known for its beaches and nightlife, you won’t find nearly the same attractions and culture. The main town of “Chora” is picturesque and has some good food, but there isn’t as much to “do” during the daytime (when compared to Santorini).

Best for Romance: Santorini

Romance can be found anywhere, but when it comes to romantic destinations, these two islands can be best described as follows:

Santorini is for couples. Amazing sunsets, incredible culinary hotspots, quaint villages, and best-in-class hotels and resorts all make for a romantic experience tailored to couples.

Mykonos is for singles. Party-friendly beaches, all-night clubs, and plenty of LGBTQ+ bars make Mykonos an amazing place for singles to hang out, mingle, and enjoy new experiences.

There are obviously exceptions to this – and it doesn’t mean that singles can’t visit Santorini or couples can’t have a great time in Mykonos – but you get the idea. One is more upbeat and carefree, while the other is laid back and luxurious. You’ll have to decide which version of romance you’re looking for.

Book Your Greek Gulet Holiday

If you can’t tell by now, both Mykonos and Santorini have so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymooner, or large family, these two Greek islands have so much to offer. And the best way to see them is by scheduling a Greek gulet holiday.

Sail in Greece is proud to be the largest gulet fleet owner in Greece. We own 9 luxury gulets and have the ability to arrange private excursions at the best rates on the market for all ages and group sizes.

Whether you want to visit Mykonos, Santorini, and/or every island in between, we can make it happen. Simply click here for our private gulet charter prices or contact us today to learn more!