Best Cycladic Island?

[pieandeels]

After a bad experience of trying a Caribbean island, we've decided we're going to stick with the safe option and go back to Greece. We have been to Sikinos, Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios in the Cyclades. We are looking for a nice island to relax and eat good food. We are not interested in going somewhere with the same crowd as Mykonos. We absolutely adore Greece for its history and safety.

Which of the Cyclades would you recommend?

We are just back from skiathos which was absolutely beautiful. We also hopped over to the two other islands. I don't think they are in the area that you are looking at though.

Similar to you I’m not a fan of the ‘party crowd’, I went to Paros for my honeymoon about ten years ago with my archeologist dh. There are lots of great places to visit - Venetian castle, Cyclades Folk museum (surprisingly interesting), ancient ruins. We also took a boat trip to Antiparos which is worth it to see the magnificent caves and more ruins. It felt very peaceful and ‘authentic’ and there were some lovely local restaurants.

Just to add if you want to relax I’d recommend staying in one of the smaller medieval villages as they are very tranquil. I think we stayed in Marpissa.

Sifnos, Milos (with a side trip to Kimolos) or Amorgos.

Naxos and Paros are a bit busier but also great.

Why are you talking to yourself and have now started 3 threads under 2 names?

Maybe try the Lesser Cyclades? Koufonissi has lovely beaches but has become quite popular over recent years; Schinoussa is very authentic and peaceful, as is Iraklia. My favourite is Donoussa, lovely beaches, walks, tavernas. You could combine it with a few days on either Naxos or Paros which both have loads in the way of history although are busier than the Lesser islands, but not on the scale of Santorini/Mykonos.

Also, Amorgos is 'the end of the line' in the Cyclades and is also connected to the above by ferries. Loads of history, lovely villages, nice beaches and fantastic walks.

The food is Naxos is incredible, and still cheap this year. I personally love Syros as the architecture in its capital, Ermoupoli, is so different to the typical Cycladic style.
You could pair Syros with Tinos, which is great to explore by car. Lots of gorgeous little mountain villages to see. Plus, there’s also a great food scene on Tinos.

To add to @Whatsthepoint1234 , I was on Antiparos last fortnight. The Chora is very pretty, with lovely luxurious shops whilst the restaurants still maintained reasonable prices. However, if you like organised beaches (e.g. Sun loungers) there are very few options on Antiparos abs they’re pricey. I know some people are happy to lie straight on the beach, but I personally like a bit of drinks service and comfy loungers!

Naxos, Paros, Andiparos

Wonderful