Cyclades

Beyond the famed islands, lesser-known gems like Amorgos, Tinos, and Anafi offer tranquil escapes, biodiversity hotspots, and strong local identities shaped by centuries of agricultural and seafaring traditions.

Despite their beauty and popularity, the Cyclades face mounting environmental pressures that threaten their delicate ecosystems and cultural fabric. Overdevelopment, particularly in high-tourism zones, leads to habitat destruction, water shortages, and overburdened waste systems. Marine life suffers from overfishing, plastic pollution, and intense maritime traffic, with Posidonia seagrass meadows—vital to underwater biodiversity—under particular threat. While tourism remains the economic backbone of the region, the growing demand for authentic and sustainable experiences offers a chance to promote conservation and resilience.

Culturally, the Cyclades are a mosaic of history and artistry, shaped by ancient civilizations, Venetian influences, and deep-rooted traditions. From the Bronze Age marvels of Akrotiri in Santorini and the marble treasures of Delos—one of Greece’s most sacred archaeological sites—to the neoclassical charm of Ermoupoli in Syros, the islands preserve layers of human achievement. Each island hosts unique festivals, religious celebrations, and artisanal crafts that connect locals and visitors to a living heritage. Winding alleys, vibrant marketplaces, and centuries-old churches continue to inspire creativity and community.

For more information on what to do and see in this region, visit: www.visitgreece.gr/islands/cyclades and www.discovergreece.com/cyclades

Support protection of the Cyclades Region

The Cyclades Preservation Fund (CPF) works to safeguard the environmental integrity of the Cycladic islands and promote sustainable livelihoods. Since 2017, CPF has empowered local communities, supported grassroots initiatives, and partnered with scientists, NGOs, and businesses to protect the land, sea, and cultural legacy of the islands. Through collaborative action and public engagement, the CPF is helping to ensure a thriving future for both nature and people in the Cyclades.

For more information, visit the CPF website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. wwwcycladespreservationfund.org

Support local producers and experience local gastronomic specialities while you stock up on provisions

Found across all Cycladic Islands:

• Local Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Thyme or Sage Honey
• Herbal Tea Mixes
• Ouzo or Local Spirits

From Naxos:

• Graviera Naxou (PDO Cheese) – A firm, golden-yellow cheese, slightly sweet and nutty.
• Arseniko Cheese – A sharp, aged goat cheese.
• Kitron Liqueur – A unique citron leaf liqueur available in green (sweet), yellow (mild), and clear (dry) varieties.

From Santorini:

• Assyrtiko Wine (PDO) – Dry, mineral-rich white wine.
• Tomatokeftedes Mix – For making local tomato fritters (dried tomato, herbs, flour).
• Sundried Cherry Tomatoes or Tomato Paste – Made from the island’s tiny, sweet tomatoes.
• Santorini Capers and Caper Leaves

From Tinos:

• Louza – A cured pork delicacy, flavored with spices.
• Artisanal Honey – Often thyme or wildflower-based.
• Marble Craft Gifts – Not edible, but a traditional artisanal product of Tinos.

From Syros:

• Loukoumia (Greek Delight) – Often rose or mastiha flavored, dusted in powdered sugar.
• Halvadopita – A soft nougat sandwich with nuts.
• San Michali Cheese (PDO) – Hard, spicy cow cheese, rare and prized.

From Paros & Antiparos:

• Local Wines (Mandilaria and Monemvasia varietals)
• Fava (Yellow Split Pea Purée Mix) – From nearby islands, often used in Parian cuisine.
• Herbal Teas & Local Oregano

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Don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of the many cultural sites in the main Cycladic islands that are easily accessible on foot from their main ports or marinas:

Syros (Port: Ermoupoli)

• Town Hall of Ermoupoli (Miaouli Square): 5-minute walk from the port – A neoclassical masterpiece by Ernst Ziller—one of Greece’s grandest town halls.
• Apollo Theatre: 4-minute walk from the port – Miniature replica of La Scala (1864), symbolizing Syros’s cultural renaissance.
• Church of the Resurrection (Anastasis): 20–25-minute uphill walk from the port – Dome-topped Orthodox church on Vaporia Hill with panoramic views of Ermoupoli and beyond
• Industrial Museum of Ermoupoli: 10-minute walk along the coast – Chronicles Syros’s 19th-century industrial boom with machinery, shipbuilding tools, and archives.

Mykonos (Old Port)

• Windmills of Kato Mili: 10-minute stroll from the old harbour through the maze-like alleys – Iconic 16th-century windmills overlooking the Aegean.
• Little Venice: 8-minute walk from the port – Romantic waterfront district with 18th-century sea captains’ houses.
• Panagia Paraportiani Church: 5-minute walk from the port – One of the most photographed churches in Greece, actually a cluster of five small churches built over centuries.
• Aegean Maritime Museum: 7-minute walk – Nautical instruments, ancient maps, and ship models celebrating Greek maritime history.

Naxos (Port: Naxos Marina)

• Portara (Temple of Apollo Gate):10-minute walk across a causeway from the marina – The massive marble gateway of a 6th-century BCE temple, especially stunning at sunset.
• Kastro (Venetian Castle District): 7–10-minute uphill walk into the old town – Medieval quarter with narrow alleys, Latin mansions, the Catholic Cathedral, and great views.
• Archaeological Museum of Naxos: Inside the Kastro, 10 minutes from port – Rich Cycladic figurines and ancient finds from Naxos and surrounding islets.

Paros (Port: Parikia)

• Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of 100 Doors): 5-minute walk inland from the port – 4th-century Byzantine church—one of the oldest in Greece and architecturally unique.
• Archaeological Museum of Paros: Right behind the church, 6-minute walk from port – Includes the famous “Nike of Paros” and early Cycladic sculptures.
• Frankish Castle (Kastro): 5-minute walk through old town alleys – Built by Venetians in the 13th century using ancient temple materials.

Santorini (Vlychada port)

• Tomato Industrial Museum “D. Nomikos”: 5-minute walk – Housed in a beautifully preserved 1945 tomato factory, it tells the story of Santorini’s unique cherry tomato cultivation and canning industry. Fascinating industrial architecture mixed with local agricultural history. Audio-visual exhibits, vintage equipment, and tastings.
• Vlychada Beach and Sculpted Cliffs: Directly next to the marina – The naturally carved ash and pumice cliffs resemble giant sculptures—an extraordinary geological landscape.
• Church of Agios Nikolaos: 10-minute walk inland from the marina – Modest but charming Cycladic church with a blue dome, located in a quiet, rural setting surrounded by tomato fields and farmland.
• Local Wineries: 20 minutes+ – on foot from Vlychada you could reach some small local vineyards

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