bornintheusa

Plan to stop at all 3 of these islands starting with Santorini and ending in Athens traveling by ferry-- is this the correct order in which to visit?? Also want to see Delos and not sure if seeing it while I am in Naxos or Paros is the most convenient/nearest way to do this.

Also wondering of these 3 islands which is the most spectacular and has more to see---have one extra day to spend somewhere..looking for great sights, relaxing beaches, places to walk and visit.

brotherleelove2004

Starting in Santorini yes, that's the correct order. If you go to Delos from Paros it's a shorter trip than if you go from Naxos.

Visually Santorini has the most unique and spectacular views of the caldera and open sea from the clifftops. You can hike along the cliffs or over the hill from Perissa Beach to Kamari Beach, passing by the archaeological site of Ancient Thera at the summit. Take a caldera cruise with a hike out on the volcano.

Paros and Naxos have better beaches than Santorini. While you're on Paros you can also take the local shuttle ferry to Antiparos.

ParisJo

We are actually thinking of doing the opposite in September ~ ferry to Paros, ferry to Naxos, ferry to Santorini and fly back from Santorini to Athens. We are leaving Santorini last because we think it will be the highlight (as least visually). We chose this route because it looks like the right order for ferry travel. Should we be doing it in reverse?

Jo

Heimdall

No difference whatsoever which way round you do it. Either way you are following the main ferry route which stops at Paros first, then Naxos, and finally Santorini. On the return to Piraeus the ferry leaves Santorini, stopping first at Naxos and then Paros.

Jo, for September I would do it same as you, leaving Santorini for last. The reason being: Santorini stays busy longer into September, and saving it for last will not only be the highlight, but get you there when it is a little quieter, perhaps even meaning lower room prices.

parosblue

hi bornintheusa,
Santorini is the most spectacular because of its unparalleled views. Yet I'd recommend you book your extra day on Paros. You'll spend one day taking the excursion to Delos plus there is plenty to do on Paros for sights, beaches, and walking. You also can take the ferry hop over to Antiparos if you have enough time.

ParisJo

Thanks Heimdall, we will stick to our plans. As you can tell from my name, we are Paris addicts but we are very excited about our first trip to Greece.

Jo

stanbr

It would appear that Aegean Airlines is having a seat sale right now so this will probably be the best time to book those flights to and from Santorini.
The excursion boats to Delos actually leave Naxos and pick up passengers in Paros. BLL is correct that makes it a shorter trip than from Naxos but it is the same excursion.
Here are some pictures of Delos
http://travel.webshots.com/album/552009563QJRIYa