Santorini: opt for this more spectacular and much quieter island in the Cyclades

Do you dream of the Cyclades but fear the crowds? Santorini is fascinating, but the crowded alleyways are quickly tiring. Here’s a soothing alternative, without giving up the lights of the white villages.

Antiparos, the serene Cyclades option

Summer arrivals are still climbing in the archipelago. Santorini’s photo spots are saturated at dawn, especially in July and August. Antiparos, on the other hand, maintains a human pace.

The island measures around 35 km² and has a population of around 1,200. The Chora is also home to cafés, alleyways and whitewashed houses. Nature surrounds everything, with quiet beaches and silence.

Going stress-free

Antiparos is easily reached via Paros. A ferry from Pounda takes less than 10 minutes, even with a car. You can also reach Antiparos from Santorini by a combination of ferry and connection via Paros.
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The sea turns blue, and time really does slow down.

On site, you can get around on foot, by local bus or by bike. However, a small car is useful if you’re aiming for remote coves. And don’t forget the summer wind, the meltem, which is refreshing but requires caution at sea.

What to do on site

Start with the Antiparos cave, famous for its concretions. Here, a secure staircase leads to some spectacular chambers. Take good shoes, as the stone can slip in wet conditions.

• Aim for the morning to avoid the heat on the trails.
• Book boats the day before in busy periods.
• Bring cash for small tavernas and buses.
• Protect skin and water: hat, cream, reusable water bottle.
• Respect the coves: no loud music, no cigarette butts.

The beaches are varied and easy to get to. What’s more, Soros offers long stretches, while Agios Georgios overlooks clear waters. In short, you can alternate between sandy tavernas and siestas in the shade.

The boats set sail for Despotiko, a neighboring islet of raw charm. Here you’ll find an archaeological site and deserted coves. All in all, it’s a great day out for swimming and heritage.

Where to stay and eat

Family-run guesthouses dominate, with a few discreet hotels. On the other hand, the welcome remains warm, without the Santorini prices. To lighten the budget, aim for May-June or September-October.

The cuisine features grilled fish, vegetables and local cheeses. If you’re traveling with your partner or family, make a reservation for the evening. We dine late, but the service remains simple and precise.

Comparing without contrasting

The sunsets are memorable in their own way. Compared to Santorini, the horizon is experienced without crowds. You gain in relaxation time, and lose less energy.

Respect for the environment makes all the difference on a small island. So limit the use of plastics and take your garbage home. Santorini’s tourist pressure reminds us why these gestures count.

A trip can combine Paros, Antiparos and a major star. One week is enough to vary beaches, walks and villages. You can even finish with a short visit to Santorini, if the mood strikes you.

If you’re looking for a destination with the first rays of sunshine and no big crowds, you know where to go. It’s a small, unspoilt paradise.

• Santorini