Santorini and Mykonos are some of the most popular Greek islands for good reason. Whether it’s to see the best sunset in Europe or marvel at Myknonos’ windmills, it’s no surprise that tourists can’t get enough.
Both of the islands are also extremely popular cruise destinations but this does mean they can get crowded during peak summer season.
However, this doesn’t mean that tourists can’t enjoy the islands. Experienced cruise guests have taken to Reddit to share their best tips for a cruise holiday visiting Greece’s busiest islands.
‘RainahReddit’ said: “Get off the ship as soon as you can – the crowds only get bigger. At 9am, we had Mykonos basically to ourselves, no crowds, shops open, great to wander up to see the windmills, got a lunch reservation etc. We had our lunch and then hit the beach. Perfect day.”
Many cruise guests don’t disembark from the ship until after 10am which means early risers could enjoy the island in peace.
Another guest said: “Book a private tour guide to get you in and out quickly. There are other parts of the island and wineries to explore in Santorini.”
Oia is one of Santorini’s most popular areas but tourists could escape the crowds if they head to a quieter part of the island.
A private tour guide can uncover some of the island’s hidden gems but make sure to check the timings to ensure you’re back on the ship in time.
One guest added: “On Santorini, we chose to walk up and down Fira, avoiding the long cable car lines.
“You can do this if you are healthy and able to hike normally. We caught a local bus in Fira going to Perissa Bay and spent a bit of beach time there. It was pleasant and we avoided the cruise crowds for the most part.”
Fira is Santorini’s capital and has spectacular views of the island. While it is possible to hike, it can be challenging in hot weather so only try this route if you feel fit enough.
While it might seem counterintuitive, another guest recommended staying on the ship in the morning and getting off while everyone else was at lunch.
‘Lumbertech’ said: “We disembarked the ship after most people in the late morning, enjoyed a whole morning at the pool with very few people.
“Touring Mykonos was better because we were around the streets and the windmills when everyone else was eating at the restaurants.”